SENTIERO FILM LAB –BRIDGES 2026
Organized in collaboration with Kahuna Film

An international program dedicated to the development and production of short films, designed to build bridges between emerging filmmakers and the film industry.
Open to young directors aiming to develop and shoot their own short film, the lab guides participants through a comprehensive training and production path involving renowned professionals, multiple territories, and international film festivals.

The lab will take place as a 10-day artistic residency in Tuscany in September, offering participants an immersive environment focused on creative development, collaboration, and hands-on production planning.

In partnership with Figari International Short Film Market, Italian Short Film Center, ShorTO, and Lupin Film, Sentiero Film Lab – Extended 2026 offers production, post-production, distribution, and international pitching awards, fostering a real network of talent, innovation, and creative exchange.

Thanks to the partnership with Film Commission Valle d’Aosta, one filmmaker from the region will be awarded a full scholarship to participate in the program free of charge, strengthening the lab’s commitment to regional talent development and access to international opportunities.

An intensive experience blending creativity, mentorship, and concrete industry opportunities, designed to bring new stories to life and carry them beyond borders.

Among the professional awards already confirmed:

- Kahuna Film will produce one of the short films developed during the lab;
- PunxFilm will handle the international distribution of one selected short film;
- Associak will provide Italian distribution for another project;
- Full Movie will supply technical equipment worth approximately €2,000 to support production.
- One project will be selected to pitch at the ShorTo “You Only Pitch Twice” program;
- Another project will pitch at the Figari International Short Film Market.

Further awards and professional opportunities will be announced in the coming months.

The call will open in May 2026.
If you would like information, please write to info@sentierolab.com.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Cosimo Maj

    Grazie davvero a tutti i ragazzi e alle ragazze del Sentiero per la bellissima ed intensa esperienza dove ho potuto confrontarmi con autori, autrici, registi con punti di vista diversi e molto interessanti. Ottima selezione di cortometraggi e masterclass molto stimolanti. Grazie davvero.

    October 2025
  • Domenico Pietropaolo

    Lab super utile, intenso e divertente. Il Sentiero è un festival fatto da ragazzi che credono davvero nei cortometraggi e nel cinema indipendente, e questo si è sentito ogni secondo della mia permanenza: dalle lezioni alle masterclass, dai momenti di networking alle proiezioni.
    Dà speranza.
    Grazie ragazzi!!!

    September 2025
  • Francisca Borges

    I had a great experience at the lab! Each workshop was unique and valuable in its own way because of the carefully chosen guest speakers. I came away with new insights and practical takeaways from every session. I’d definitely recommend it!

    September 2025
  • Angelo Tarquini

    Esperienza fantastica. Una settimana intensa, piena di eventi, mastercalss e incontri. Con i compagni del Lab si è creata subito una bella intesa. I ragazzi di Sentiero sono appassionati e competenti, sempre pronti a rispondere alle domande e a dare una mano per qualsiasi cosa. Una bellissima opportunità.

    September 2025
  • Anita Otto

    L’esperienza di una settimana è stata super intensa e super stimolante. Ho avuto modo di collaborare sul mio script e sul mio pitch deck con professionisti e artisti di livello!
    Grazie Sentiero Film Lab, é stata un’esperienza arricchente e ora voglio far fruttare tutti gli stimoli ricevuti

    September 2025