Residents will work on their debut feature-length screenplays while getting insight and guidance from internationally acclaimed guest experts. These include script consultant, screenwriter and editor Matthieu Taponier, long-term collaborator of László Nemes (“Son of Saul”, “Sunset”) as well as script and film editor for “Beginning” by Dea Kulumbegashvili (Cannes Label 2020, FIPRESCI Prize Toronto 2020, Golden Seashell San Sebastian 2020). More tutors will be announced soon.
After this edition, Pustnik will expand into a year-round programme with multiple residencies. The goal is to grow an active network of peer support, so that screenwriters can share knowledge and opportunities rather than being forced into competition with one another.
Beyond the debut-focused residency, a special session in April will be devoted to alumni whose first projects are now in advanced development but still require guidance to get over the finish line.
Another residency dedicated to alumni that have completed their debut films and are working on their follow-up screenplays will close the circle. Some of these alumni are also returning throughout the year during other sessions to offer guidance and support for Pustnik residents working on their debuts.
Maintaining its commitment to the local community, Pustnik and its alumni will continue to host filmmaking workshops for youngsters in the Romanian rural area close to the main venue. Several other events – including screenings and masterclasses – will be announced in the months to come.
“Pustnik’s new format was born out of a very organic necessity, connected to the experiences of our alumni. The new programme is meant to act as a supporting net for filmmakers who have worked on their feature projects in previous editions of our residency and either managed to get development funding but are stuck somewhere before production stage, or have managed to produce their debuts, but struggle to find the time and the resources to begin working on their second. Our long term aim is to create a self-sustainable network in which alumni can offer support to each other, come back in the programme whenever they need guidance and as well return as guests, script consultants or tutors for our filmmaking workshops in the community”. (Andreea Cristina Borțun, co-founder)
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About Pustnik:
Pustnik is a year round programme and the first international screenwriters residency to take place in Romania. It aims to create an environment dedicated to peace of mind and clarity of thought, away from modern pressures. Pustnik is also a growing network of film professionals and a community whose aim is to ease and encourage collaboration across the international cinema industry.
For more information:
www.pustnik.com
www.facebook.com/pustnik
Dan Angelescu – This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Pustnik is organized by T.E.T.A Association
TETA is an NGO founded in June 2006 with the purpose of developing cultural activities and alternative education to stimulate cultural revival within overlooked communities. TETA also produces films and theatre performances.
Cultural program co-funded by the Administration of National Cultural Fund (AFCN), Romanian Film Center, Dacin Sara, French Institute Romania
Media partners: Film New Europe, Films in Frame, AaRC – All about Romanian Cinema, Observator Cultural
The program does not necessarily represent the position of the Administration of the National Cultural Fund. AFCN is not responsible for the content of the program, nor for the manner in which the results of the program might be used. These are entirely the responsibility of the beneficiary of the grant.
