Transatlantic Rising Stars Project (Film)

The call for applications is now open!

The first call of the Transatlantic Stars Film Directors Program invites mid-career EU filmmakers to take part in a two-week immersion into the heart of the American film industry. Selected directors will experience a focused, high-level introduction to the U.S. film landscape, with opportunities to present their work, connect with established professionals, and learn firsthand how filmmakers create, collaborate, and build their practice with insights gained from the United States.

Directors will take part in a two-week program beginning at the Berkshire International Film Festival, where their work will be featured in a dedicated spotlight. While at the festival, participants will take part in an intimate retreat designed for exchange, reflection, and mentorship with experienced U.S. filmmakers and industry figures. The program then continues in Los Angeles with a capstone immersion that introduces directors to leading voices in the industry through meetings, conversations, and on-the-ground exposure to engaging in the U.S. film ecosystem.

The two-week program culminates in Washington, D.C., where participants will join fellow Transatlantic Stars artists from the visual arts and music programs for a public summit showcasing the work and perspectives developed during their time in the United States.

Each selected director will receive international and domestic airfare, visa assistance, accommodation, and meals for the duration of the program. This opportunity is open to citizens of EU Member States with a valid passport who are feature narrative film directors. Applicants must have directed a feature film that received an award from a qualifying European film festival or major award within the past three years. The awarded film will be presented as part of an exclusive Transatlantic Stars European Filmmakers Showcase at the Berkshire International Film Festival.

We welcome applications from directors interested in exploring the U.S. industry, building transatlantic networks, strengthening creative exchange, and engaging American audiences through European storytelling. If this aligns with your practice and professional trajectory, we look forward to receiving your application to the Transatlantic Stars Film Program.

Applications are open from December 2, 2025, through January 16, 2026. Please see the Eligibility and Application Materials section for details, and use the link below to submit. Please note that calls for applications for musicians will be announced shortly.

Eligibility and Application Materials

Applicant Eligibility

• EU Member State Citizen with a valid passport. Citizens of EU candidate countries are not eligible.
• Confirmation of no criminal background.
• Availability to travel to the U.S. for the program dates (mid May – early June 2026).
• Feature Narrative Film Director
• Festival or EU Award Recognition: Applicants must have directed a feature film that received an award from a qualifying European film festival or major award within the past three years.
• Collaboration and Exchange:
• Openness to cross-cultural dialogue and professional networking.
• Willingness to participate in panels, Q&As, and festival events.
• English proficiency (spoken and written) sufficient for program activities.

Application Materials

• CV/filmography
• Professional biography
• Publicity-ready images, including one headshot (with no copyright restrictions)
• Links to award-winning film and other samples
• Responses to narrative questions in the application portal

Question: How will filmmakers be selected?
Answer: Applications are first screened for eligibility and then evaluated against the published selection criteria to create a shortlist. A jury of European and American film professionals will review shortlisted candidates and invite them to interviews to assess vision, communication skills, and overall fit for the program. The jury will then make final recommendations for five EU film directors to participate. Applicants will be notified by email, and selected filmmakers will proceed to contracting.

Question: How much does it cost to apply?
Answer: There is no application fee.

Question: I’m just starting out as a film director. Can I apply?
Answer: This program is intended for mid-career directors who have received an award at a qualifying European film festival or an EU award within the past three years (2023, 2024, 2025).

Question: Can my manager attend with me, or can someone I have already worked with join me in applying?
Answer: Only the individual applicant may attend.

Question: How will you ensure fair and equal access to artists from every EU country?
Answer: We are holding an open call for qualifying filmmakers who are citizens of EU Member States. Selection will follow a standardized scoring rubric, including independent reviewers for each application, conflict-of-interest checks, and a balanced jury of European and American film professionals. Final selections will be based strictly on merit according to the published criteria. To ensure broad awareness, the call is promoted EU-wide through official channels and partner networks, with particular attention to visibility in smaller Member States.

Question: Will I be notified if I am not selected?
Answer: Yes, all applicants will be informed as updates become available.

Question: Is there an interview as part of the selection process?
Answer: Yes, shortlisted candidates will be invited to an interview.

Question: Who are the members of the jury?
Answer: The jury will consist of film professionals from both the EU and the US.

Question: I'm an artist working in the visual arts or music. Can I apply to the current call?
Answer: The current call is for filmmakers only. Our call for visual arts is now closed and will reopen in fall 2026. A call for musicians will be announced soon.

Have questions about applying for the Film Program? Email the Transatlantic Stars Film Team at film@trsproject.eu.