Asghar Farhadi's Masterclass in Filmmaking
Few filmmakers have reshaped global cinema as profoundly as Asghar Farhadi. With a storytelling approach both intimate and universal, his films immerse audiences in the complexities of human nature, moral dilemmas, and the silent tensions that define relationships. A two-time Academy Award winner, Farhadi is among the few directors worldwide to have won the Oscar for Best International Feature Film twice – for A Separation (2011) and The Salesman (2016). His ability to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers has made him one of the most celebrated auteurs of our time.
Born on May 7, 1972, in Khomeyni Shahr, Iran, Farhadi studied theater at the University of Tehran before earning a master’s degree in stage direction. His journey in cinema began with Dancing in the Dust (2003), followed by The Beautiful City (2004) and Fireworks Wednesday (2006). He gained International acclaim for About Elly (2009), which earned him the Silver Bear for Best Director at the Berlin International Film Festival. His breakthrough came with A Separation (2011) which won the Academy Award for Best International Feature Film, along with the Golden Globe, the César Award, and the Independent Spirit Award for best international film.
Farhadi made history as the first Iranian filmmaker to win an Oscar for Best International Feature Film. He repeated this extraordinary feat with “The Salesman“ (2016), becoming one of the select few directors worldwide to have claimed this honor twice. His ability to craft gripping, emotionally charged narratives has earned him accolades at the most prestigious festivals, including Berlin, Cannes, and Venice Film Festival. In 2013, “The Past“ premiered at Cannes, securing the Best Actress award, while The Salesman continued his streak of excellence. His 2021 drama “A Hero“ won the Grand Prix at Cannes, reaffirming his talent for creating socially relevant, thought-provoking cinema.
Beyond his remarkable filmography, his impact on world cinema has been recognized at the highest levels. In 2012, Time magazine included him in its Time 100 list of the most influential people in the world, and that same year, he was awarded France’s Legion of Honour. He has served on juries at major international festivals, including Berlin, Cannes and is also a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
Admired by legendary figures such as Steven Spielberg, David Fincher, Woody Allen, and Meryl Streep, he is recognized for his extraordinary impact on the world of filmmaking
Farhadi’s cinema is a study in nuance. His films unfold in naturalistic settings, where the personal and political intersect, forcing audiences to confront ethical tensions and the contradictions within society. His narratives are intricately woven, built around layered characters and deep psychological realism. Farhadi brings a sharp dramaturgical sensibility to his films, crafting stories where silence is as powerful as dialogue. His work is further enriched by subtle yet evocative musical scores, which heighten the emotional depth of his storytelling.
In 2025, Farhadi brings his unparalleled expertise to IFA, offering emerging filmmakers a rare opportunity to learn from his artistic vision. As a Master Teacher, he will guide participants through the art of cinematic storytelling, providing invaluable insight into character-driven narratives, dramatic structure, and the creation of emotionally resonant films.
Mr. Farhadi’s mentorship will offer an immersive and transformative experience, inspiring new voices in cinema to refine their craft under the guidance of one of the most distinguished auteur of our time.
For our 12th edition, we are hosting 30 international talents who will be representatives of their nation.
The selected group of filmmakers have the opportunity to learn from the vision and personal approach to cinema of the IFA Master Teacher. Every year, we invite the best film auteurs of our time.
During the past eleven editions, we hosted Bernardo Bertolucci, Abbas Kiarostami, Béla Tarr, Cristian Mungiu, Jane Campion, John Landis, Andrey Zvyagintsev and Ruben Östlund, who is now our Honorary President.
Emerging
Directors
10
Emerging
DOP
10
Assistant
Directors
10
SHORT
MOVIES
10
IFA offerS an unique opportunity
- To write, shoot, edit and premiere a short film in Bologna under the guidance of one of the most influential world’s film authors as IFA Master Teacher.
- To get in touch with new visions and experience a deeper approach to cinema, under the direction of the Master Teacher, who mentors the IFA Participants through the whole filmmaking process, from the script to the final product.
- To work closely and have a daily one-to-one experience with the Master Teacher
- Create a network and a deep and lasting relationship with fellow talents based worldwide
- To experience an intercultural exchange and live the masterclass through the point of view of different cultures
- To screening of each short film at the Theater and get the Master Teacher’s feedback
- To have a full-immersive Italian Dolce Vita experience in the iconic places of Bologna in the summertime
- To have welcome and closing dinner with the IFA Master Teacher, participants and IFA team
- To have an accreditation for Il Cinema Ritrovato festival,(real cinephile paradise) with access to 500 movies screened in 9 days
The program is in English and tentatively will take place in Bologna from June 25th to July 7th 2025.
Tuition Fee
The tuition fee on the participant of 5.000 euros includes:
- Online supervision during the screenwriting process
- Participation to the Masterclass in Filmmaking, under the guidance of one the world’s most influential film directors
- Participation to Il Cinema Ritrovato Film Festival
- Two weeks of accommodation (food and travel expenses are not covered)
APPLICATION FOR MASTERCLASS 2025 : Open
IFA Masterclass Structure
30 international talents will be divided into three categories: 10 Directors, 10 DOPs & 10 Assistant Directors.
From May 10
10 Filmmakers will write their script before they arrive to Bologna.
The participants will have access to the local actors’ book and the locations’ book, in order to make their creative choices match the beautiful setting of Bologna.
May 30
One online meeting with the IFA Master Teacher who will give orientation and explain the masterclass structure.
JUNE 25TH – JULY 7TH: THE IFA MASTERCLASS
SHOOTING, EDITING, SCREENING
1st WEEK: The IFA Master Teacher shares his/her experience, aesthetic and approach and dives deep into his/her cinematographic practice. All the participants are involved, and each talent will have the opportunity to nurture their own authorial and professional vision.
The Master Teacher will support the Directors and Assistant Directors on their screenplay, pitches, photographic direction and direction of actors.
2nd WEEK: shooting and editing of 10 short films in various locations around Bologna. The IFA participants will be supported by Italian emerging professionals who will serve as location managers, casting directors and production assistants as a crew, assisting all participants.
10 short films will be premiere at the Cinema Lumière in Bologna on the last day of the Masterclass.
