10 Filmmakers on the Verge! Cannes Critics' Week Announces Next Step Program

Cannes Critics’ Week, a renowned launchpad for emerging filmmakers, has just unveiled the ten talented individuals selected for its 12th annual Next Step program. This initiative, which I always find incredibly inspiring, is specifically designed to help directors transition from short films to their first full-length feature. It’s a critical step (pun intended!) for many, and Cannes really shines in its dedication to supporting these artists.

10 Filmmakers on the Verge! Cannes Critics' Week A...

This year's cohort represents a diverse range of voices and perspectives. Among them is Róisín Burns, an Irish-British filmmaker currently based in France. Her short film "Wonderwall" garnered attention earlier this year at a parallel Cannes section, and now she's poised to develop "Happy Hardcore," a deeply personal project set in her hometown of Liverpool. The film tells the story of a 17-year-old soldier who deserts his post during the Iraq War. It sounds like a powerful and emotionally charged narrative, and I'm definitely looking forward to seeing how it develops.

Another name that caught my eye is Anna Hints from Estonia. Her 2023 documentary, "Smoke Sauna Sisterhood," was a major success, snagging a directing award at Sundance, Estonia’s first European Film Award, and even representing the country at the Academy Awards. That's quite a track record! Hints is bringing "Black Hairy Beast" to Next Step, and I'm curious to see what genre or style she explores after the success of her documentary.

From December 6th to 12th, these ten filmmakers will be immersed in a week-long workshop. The first half will take place at the idyllic Moulin d’Andé artists residence in Normandy. Imagine the creative energy flowing there! They'll receive invaluable guidance on their screenplays from international consultants, as well as meet with composers to discuss the crucial role of music in their films. It's a holistic approach that addresses both the narrative and artistic sides of filmmaking.

The program culminates with one participant receiving a residency at the Moulin d’Andé–CÉCI, and the prestigious Next Step Prize. This prize includes €2,500 and, perhaps even more importantly, an invitation to the Cannes Film Festival itself. Talk about a boost for a burgeoning career!

Since its inception in 2014, Next Step has been a pivotal force in supporting 97 filmmakers from 39 countries. To date, 38 feature films have been produced through the program, and many have gone on to screen at major festivals around the world. Just look at Morad Mostafa's "Aisha Can’t Fly Away" (Un Certain Regard 2025) and Vytautas Katkus' "The Visitor" (Best Director Award at Karlovy Vary). These are real success stories. Also joining the program are Marinthia Gutiérrez (Mexico) with "Nabor" and Marie Larrivé (French) with "Erika". It’s clear that Next Step is not just a workshop; it’s a launchpad for the next generation of cinematic storytellers.