Asghar Farhadi and Kaveh Farnam will be in Espinho! Join a Week of Masterclasses, Sun & Networking (Industry Program Closed!)

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FEST - New Directors | New Films Festival

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Jun 15, 2026, 3:19:45 PMJun 15
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FEST PRO Program 2026

A few days ahead of the 22nd edition of FEST, we are delighted to announce the presence in Espinho of Asghar Farhadi, one of the most acclaimed contemporary filmmakers and a two-time Oscar winner for A Separation and The Salesman, as well as independent Iranian producer and writer Kaveh Farnam (Golden Bear There Is No Evil; Son-Mother).

They mark the final confirmations, bringing this special programme to a close. FEST continues to strengthen its educational and professional dimensions through a programme that brings together some of the most renowned figures in the international film industry. Among the confirmations for the 2026 edition are Alexander Nanau, Oscar-nominated director of Collective; Miguel Faus, Spanish director of Calladita; and director Danis Tanović, winner of the Oscar for Best International Film for No Man’s Land and author of award-winning works at Cannes and Berlin. Also joining are Paul Davies and Pete Travis, who return to the festival to lead specialised workshops.

The professional programmes will also feature director of photography Dan Laustsen, a regular collaborator of Guillermo del Toro and a three-time Academy Award nominee. Katie Spencer and Sarah Greenwood, respectively set decorator and production designer of Barbie, will also be present, further strengthening a programme that spans multiple creative and technical areas of the audiovisual industry. Also attending FEST are underwater cinematography specialists Françoise Valentine and Mike Valentine, whose credits include productions such as The Beach, Skyfall and Trainspotting.

In 2026, FEST is expanding its industry programme with the launch of the Actors Hub, a new space dedicated to training, reflection, and the creation of professional opportunities for actors and professionals in the film and audiovisual industries. On the 26th and 27th, the Actors Hub will provide a practical and intimate setting where actors, casting directors, filmmakers, and producers can exchange experiences while addressing the needs of the acting sector. 

On the 24th, the Sound & Music Hub will feature Oscar winner John Warhurst, one of the world’s leading figures in music supervision and sound editing, alongside composer Harry Escott, recipient of BAFTA, BIFA and RTS awards.

This year’s Directors Hub (25th june) includes three panels focusing on different aspects of directing and exploring key elements of the profession. First, The Directors Marathon is a conversation that examines how directors and artists sustain their creativity, motivation, and well-being throughout a career shaped by constant demands and uncertainty. Later in the day, Directing Power will be a debate exploring leadership and working practices on a film set, reflecting on how healthier environments can foster collaboration and considering how creative ambition can be pursued without compromising the people involved in the process. Finally, The Visibility Trap will address visibility, authorship, and the evolving role of the filmmaker in the digital age.

FULL PROGRAM
FILM PROGRAM

The 6-day extensive program offers a tailored experience to all film and audiovisual professionals. Join us in the beautiful coastal city of Espinho.

PRO Accreditation gives you FULL ACCESS:

  • Training Ground Program
  • Pitching Forum Final Presentations
  • Music Walk With Me Nights
  • Industry Meetings
  • Networking Dinners
  • Cocktails and Industry Lounge
  • …and much more in the seaside town of Espinho

To purchase the accreditation, simply visit our website and follow the process

If you have any questions regarding the accreditation options or FEST activities, feel free to reach out to us at regist...@fest.pt

JOIN US - FEST PRO - FULL ACCESS - 95€
ABOUT FEST
2026 CONFIRMED GUESTS
FEST — New Directors | New Films Festival

Museu Municipal de Espinho
Loja 2 Norte, Rua 41 / Av. João de Deus
Espinho, 4500

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