Exploring New Perspectives in International Filmmaking Through the Masterclass Program

On the third day of Jakarta Film Week 2024 (25/10), participants were treated to a series of masterclasses featuring accomplished international filmmakers. The program included a Masterclass on Directing with Ho Miu Ki, director and screenwriter of Love Lies, a Scriptwriting Masterclass with Kim Min Ha, screenwriter and director of Idiot Girls and School Ghost: School Anniversary, and an Editing Masterclass with Nick Cheuk, director, writer, and editor of Time Still Turns the Pages. The sessions were held at the Mercure Hotel Cikini in Central Jakarta.

Emerging filmmakers attended the event, eager to gain insights into the creative processes and experiences of these seasoned professionals. Through these masterclasses, they were able to deepen their understanding of storytelling and explore the creative techniques needed to bring compelling stories to life on screen.

In the Directing Masterclass, Ho Miu Ki, alongside Sabrina Rochelle, shared her perspective on directing emotional depth in characters and visualizing the script. She emphasized that, especially for emerging directors, the role can be challenging as it involves aligning the entire team’s vision to maintain the desired storyline and uniqueness. “A director needs to have a theater of the mind. The most important aspect is the ability to voice our thoughts into film and a deep love for storytelling,” she stated.

Sabrina added that aspiring directors should be open to all opportunities for learning and growth. “A director should embrace openness, learning from senior filmmakers and seizing every opportunity. Even the smallest chance can open doors to further experiences,” she remarked.

In the Scriptwriting Masterclass, Kim Min Ha discussed ways to explore fresh approaches in genre filmmaking and introduce unique humor into narratives, which adds to the story’s appeal and enjoyment for audiences. Screenwriters, she explained, can go beyond conventional genre boundaries by offering unique twists that make the story feel more vivid and memorable.

The final session, the Editing Masterclass, was led by Nick Cheuk, who discussed the benefits and challenges of multitasking during production. Directors who also serve as editors, he noted, have the advantage of crafting a story flow that matches their vision. However, he acknowledged the challenge of ensuring that the intended message resonates clearly with audiences.

Through this Masterclass program, filmmakers had the opportunity to broaden their perspectives on creating diverse works, spanning various genres, storytelling styles, and technical approaches. Engaging directly with internationally experienced filmmakers, participants were encouraged to draw inspiration and uncover new ideas, ultimately contributing to a more varied and original cinematic landscape.

For more information on Jakarta Film Week 2024’s programs and events, visit www.jakartafilmweek.com and follow us on social media @jakartafilmweek. Don’t miss the chance to be part of Jakarta’s international celebration of cinema this year!

Asia Khairunnisa Luthan | Nanda Hadiyanti