Got your plans sorted for #ASFF2024 day 2? Today’s newsletter is filled with festival inspo, from must-attend masterclasses to useful workshops – plucked straight from the Programme!

Today’s Film Strand:
Embracing Transformation

How can we expand our perspectives? What does it truly mean to be a global citizen? We can often lose sight of the broader context. This gripping strand of curated shorts explores how we can learn from each other during times that are marked by advances in technology, social media and the heavy weight of the climate emergency.

Insight: Incredible Masterclasses

Abubakar Salim. Pamea Jikiemi. Matt Greenhalgh. Hear from big industry names in today’s lineup. Start your morning with a talk on The Art of Screenwriting with Matt Greenhalgh (Back to Black) at Yorkshire Museum (11.30) before heading back to hear from Sledgehammer Games’ (Call of Duty) Design Director (14.30). Round off your day of masterclasses (16:30) with a session from creative visionary Abubakar Salim (Napoleon, Assassin’s Creed Origins).

Immersive: The VR Lab 

The Hospitium | 09:30-21:00

Experience the future of film. For the seventh year, we present our 360 Cinema and Immersive Experiences Lab, realised in partnership with London College of Communication. This is the place to try on a headset and be transported into a different story, time or place. Head to The Hospitium and discover the power of immersive storytelling.

Social: VR & Games Happy Hour

Thor’s Tipi | 17:00-18:00

A destination for those working in new technologies, the VR and Games Happy Hour brings industry guests together to contemplate the future of games development, VR and immersive filmmaking. This is the ideal place to generate ideas about what’s next for interactive entertainment and beyond. Includes free welcome drink upon arrival.

Networking: How to Master VFX on a Budget

Pitcher & Piano | 12:00-13:30

VFX can often be seen as too expensive or complicated for lower-budget filmmaking. But they’re key to bringing the imagined universes we most cherish to life. Viridian FX, based in the heart of York, is a team of VFX artists and filmmakers behind HBO’s House of the Dragon. This is a place to discuss the exciting future of storytelling.

Fringe: UNESCO City of Media Arts EXPO

Guildhall | 09:00-21:00

We are delighted to unveil the UNESCO City of Media Arts EXPO. It’s a showcase of exceptional work being delivered by media arts and creative businesses based in the region. This is a space for filmmakers, developers and screen executives to connect with the businesses that deliver the services they need. The EXPO also serves as a catalyst to support the next generation of creative talent.

Social: MPB Presents Meet the Makers

Rose within the Walls | 20:00-23:00

Meet the Makers is your opportunity to get to know the creatives at the heart of #ASFF2024. The event is sponsored by MPB, an online platform to buy and sell used photography and videography equipment. It’s for everyone, whether you’re a complete novice or experienced professional. Complementary glass of wine on arrival.

Fringe: Sound Installation Panel Discussion

City Screen | 16:00-17:00

The question, “Where are you really from?” does not have a simple answer. Sound artist and musician, Vendela Haakonsen, conducted eight interviews with diverse individuals to uncover what the question is actually seeking to answer. This is your opportunity to meet the artist and speakers, as they share their personal experiences.

Workshop: Developing Your Career in Gaming

Pitcher & Piano | 14:00-15:00

Are you a gaming fan and eager to turn your passion into a career? Be part of an inclusive workshop with industry leaders Ubisoft, Midoki and Lucid Games, where you’ll gain insights into careers in gaming. Whether you’re an emerging or more established developer, this workshop will provide you with essential industry knowledge. 

Workshop: Learn 
How to Storyboard in 360

Pitcher & Piano | 15:30-17:00

Step into the future of storytelling with our workshop on immersive storytelling. This session will teach you the unique techniques and considerations required for creating narratives in a 360-degree environment. We will explore spatial design and XR specific elements that will ensure your stories captivate audiences from all angles. 

Immersive: The Games Lab

The Hospitium | 09:45-20:30

Games are an important part of screen culture and, here at the Aesthetica Short Film Festival, we are championing developers and designers through our Games Lab. Play a vast range of outstanding independent titles and discover your next favourite adventure game, platformer or RPG. Free with pass and registration recommended.

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Be part of Aesthetica Short Film Festival 2024, from Wednesday 6 November until Sunday 10 November. Tickets and Passes On Sale! Get Yours Today: asff.co.uk | Browse the Programme

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