Published: April 24, 2024| 11:41 AM

Future Frames – Generation NEXT of European Cinema, a program organized by Karlovy Vary International Film Festival and European Film Promotion, has been helping talented European directors start their careers in the film industry since 2015. By partnering with leading multinational lottery operator Allwyn and collaborating with American talent agency UTA and Range Media Partners, Future Frames last year significantly expanded the opportunities it offers young filmmakers.

“Allwyn is delighted to continue its support of the Future Frames initiative and the development scholarship to Hollywood, thus helping emerging directors to realize their full ambitions and potential. I have no doubt that each of them will go on to leave an indelible mark on the film world. Bringing people and communities together is something that matters more than ever before. Collaborating with the Future Frames initiative enables Allwyn to support that mission. We’re really looking forward to meeting all the talented directors at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival this summer,” says Pavel Turek, Allwyn‘s Chief Officer of Global Brand, Corporate Communication, and CSR.

Every year for Future Frames, the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival programming team selects ten film school students and graduates who have been recommended by member organizations of European Film Promotion to present their short and medium-length films to the festival’s audiences. The participating filmmakers are also treated to a specially tailored mentoring program that includes training, networking, and promotion. Leading filmmakers who have shared their experiences with Future Frames participants at past editions of the program include Felix van Groeningen, Denis Côte, Tim Sutton, and Jasmila Žbanić.

One selected participant is given the chance to go on a special study trip to Los Angeles sponsored by Allwyn. Last year, this three-week residency was awarded to Amalie Maria Nielsen of Denmark. Thanks to UTA talent agency and Range Media Partners, Nielsen could connect with professionals from the American film industry.

“This is the tenth year of the Future Frames program, and during its existence it has provided support to a number of talented filmmakers,” says the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival’s executive director Kryštof Mucha, adding, “We are glad that, thanks to our partner Allwyn and our close collaboration with UTA talent agency and Range Media Partners, we can offer promising European directors the chance to start their careers and to engage in

creative development while also giving them the opportunity to gain experience from renowned figures of international cinema.”

“Going to LA was an unforgettable life experience that has helped me to grow as a filmmaker and human being. Thinking about it is still overwhelming! I had the opportunity to experience the center of American film production and meet some of the most experienced and talented creators. During my visit, the whole city was filled with filmmakers from all over the world because of the Oscar campaigns, and I watched a lot of inspiring films. Future Frames sends a strong message about the power of film by connecting people across borders, and I made many new contacts and friendships that I will take with me further in the future,” says Amalie Maria Nielsen, Future Frames participant.

This year’s Future Frames will take place at the Karlovy Vary International Film Festival from 30 June to 3 July. The Hotel Thermal will once again host the Allwyn Future Frames Lounge, a creative and networking space for the program’s workshops and also a space for individual meetings with representatives from UTA and Range Media Partners, who will be on hand to provide participants with important feedback and advice. They will also subsequently select one Future Frames filmmaker for the special scholarship and study trip to Los Angeles.

“We are delighted to continue the collaboration with Allwyn for our Future Frames program at KVIFF for the second year. Allwyn’s generous support allows us to expand our program to a new level and to provide young filmmakers with the opportunity to broaden their horizons outside of Europe,” says Sonja Heinen, Managing Director, European Film Promotion.

“Building upon the resounding success of our inaugural partnership last year, we are thrilled to once again collaborate with the renowned Karlovy Vary Film Festival and its Future Frames Program,” said Rena Ronson, Partner & Head of UTA Independent Film Group. “We are honored to support the next generation of visionary filmmakers as we anticipate another year of extraordinary talent and innovative storytelling.”

“The Karlovy Vary Film Festival is one of the world’s most renowned festivals, championing incredible films and talent. We are thrilled to continue being a part of the festival’s Future Frames program, helping young filmmakers showcase their talent and expand their relationships around the globe,” says Kevin Hussey, Range Media Partners.