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WORKSHOP'S PHILOSOPHY

Le Giornate Del Cinema Di Monte San Savino – Workshop was established as an opportunity to immerse oneself in the adventure of creation alongside a visionary filmmaker. These workshops, combining theory and practice, represent a challenge to experiment and an invitation to explore unknown territories with a curious and respectful eye, guided by an expert who will immerse us intimately and personally in the depths of cinema. Venturing beyond our daily routines, this innovative approach opens the door to telling stories from a completely different perspective, allowing us to explore our deepest truths and tell stories that go beyond our everyday reality, inspired by the place hosting us, its customs, and its landscapes.

WORKSHOP'S PHILOSOPHY

Le Giornate Del Cinema Di Monte San Savino – Workshop was established as an opportunity to immerse oneself in the adventure of creation alongside a visionary filmmaker. These workshops, combining theory and practice, represent a challenge to experiment and an invitation to explore unknown territories with a curious and respectful eye, guided by an expert who will immerse us intimately and personally in the depths of cinema. Venturing beyond our daily routines, this innovative approach opens the door to telling stories from a completely different perspective, allowing us to explore our deepest truths and tell stories that go beyond our everyday reality, inspired by the place hosting us, its customs, and its landscapes.

THE
WORKSHOP

APPLY

Over the course of 10 days – from August 16 to 26 – a diverse group of students from different cultures and backgrounds will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in an intensive creative process. They will observe the reality of Monte San Savino, reflect on their own perspectives, and write and film a short film, all under the guidance of Master Panahi.

JAFAR PANAHI FILMOGRAPHY

THE WHITE BALLOOW

1995 – Camera d’Or at Cannes

THE CIRCLE

2000 – Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival

CRISMSON GOLD

2003 – Co-written with Abbas Kiarostami – Golden Camera at Cannes

OFFSIDE

2006

THIS IS NOT A FILM

2011 – Cannes, Documentary

CLOSED CURTAIN

2013

TAXI

2015 – Golden Bear at Berlin International Film Festival

3 FACES

2018 – Cannes

THE YEAR OF THE EVERLASTING STORM – LIVE

2021 – Cannes Film Festival

NO BEARS

2022

JAFAR PANAHI: IS ONE OF IRAN'S MOST INFLUENTIAL FILMMAKERS

Jafar Panahi is one of Iran’s most influential filmmakers, known for his intimate, humanistic storytelling and his exploration of complex social and political issues in contemporary Iran. His films often tackle themes of social justice, political unrest, and the limitations placed on personal freedom, using a blend of realism and social commentary that has made him a vital voice in world cinema. His work resonates globally, earning critical acclaim at major international film festivals despite ongoing censorship and government repression.
Panahi first gained international attention with his 1995 debut, The White Balloon, which won the Camera d’Or at Cannes. The film’s delicate portrayal of a young girl’s quest for a goldfish was a powerful exploration of innocence and societal constraints. His 1997 follow-up, The Mirror, broke new ground with its blending of documentary and fiction, showcasing his ability to reflect on the intersection of personal and political struggles.
Panahi’s films grew bolder in their social critique, particularly in their treatment of women’s rights in Iran. The Circle (2000), which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, highlighted the oppressive treatment of women, and Offside (2006), a comedy-drama about women attempting to attend a football match, became a satire of gender restrictions in Iranian society. A key influence on Panahi’s work was his friendship and collaboration with the legendary Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami. The two shared a similar cinematic language, focusing on ordinary people and social issues with a style that mixed realism with subtle, poetic nuance. Panahi often credited Kiarostami’s mentorship as a guiding force in his own filmmaking. Their partnership culminated in Panahi co-writing Crimson Gold (2003) with Kiarostami, a film that examines class inequalities in Iran and won the Golden Camera at Cannes. This collaboration helped shape Panahi’s vision and reinforced his commitment to addressing societal injustices through cinema.
Panahi’s films grew bolder in their social critique, particularly in their treatment of women’s rights in Iran. The Circle (2000), which won the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival, highlighted the oppressive treatment of women, and Offside (2006), a comedy-drama about women attempting to attend a football match, became a satire of gender restrictions in Iranian society. A key influence on Panahi’s work was his friendship and collaboration with the legendary Iranian director Abbas Kiarostami. The two shared a similar cinematic language, focusing on ordinary people and social issues with a style that mixed realism with subtle, poetic nuance. Panahi often credited Kiarostami’s mentorship as a guiding force in his own filmmaking. Their partnership culminated in Panahi co-writing Crimson Gold (2003) with Kiarostami, a film that examines class inequalities in Iran and won the Golden Camera at Cannes. This collaboration helped shape Panahi’s vision and reinforced his commitment to addressing societal injustices through cinema.

In 2010, Panahi was arrested and sentenced to six years in prison, alongside a 20-year ban from filmmaking, after he was accused of plotting against the Iranian government. Despite this, Panahi refused to be silenced. His 2011 film This Is Not a Film, shot secretly while under house arrest, was smuggled out of the country on a USB drive hidden inside a cake. The film serves as both a personal document of his frustration and a defiant statement of artistic resistance.

In 2018, 3 Faces premiered at Cannes, continuing Panahi’s exploration of the lives of women in Iran, this time through a poignant narrative about freedom, identity, and societal constraints.

In 2022, Panahi released No Bears, a film that further explores the limitations of personal and creative freedom in contemporary Iran. However, shortly after the film’s completion, Panahi was once again arrested by Iranian authorities. This arrest, coupled with the ongoing government ban on his filmmaking, underscored the regime’s continued efforts to silence dissenting voices. Despite the mounting pressure, Panahi’s work remains a powerful testament to the resilience of creative expression, and his films continue to engage audiences worldwide, demonstrating that the spirit of cinema cannot be easily suppressed.

In 2010, Panahi was arrested and sentenced to six years in prison, alongside a 20-year ban from filmmaking, after he was accused of plotting against the Iranian government. Despite this, Panahi refused to be silenced. His 2011 film This Is Not a Film, shot secretly while under house arrest, was smuggled out of the country on a USB drive hidden inside a cake. The film serves as both a personal document of his frustration and a defiant statement of artistic resistance.

In 2018, 3 Faces premiered at Cannes, continuing Panahi’s exploration of the lives of women in Iran, this time through a poignant narrative about freedom, identity, and societal constraints.

In 2022, Panahi released No Bears, a film that further explores the limitations of personal and creative freedom in contemporary Iran. However, shortly after the film’s completion, Panahi was once again arrested by Iranian authorities. This arrest, coupled with the ongoing government ban on his filmmaking, underscored the regime’s continued efforts to silence dissenting voices. Despite the mounting pressure, Panahi’s work remains a powerful testament to the resilience of creative expression, and his films continue to engage audiences worldwide, demonstrating that the spirit of cinema cannot be easily suppressed.

For Jafar Panahi, the themes of necessity, freedom, and beauty are central. His films often express a deep need to capture the world around him, particularly the hidden beauty in everyday life, even under oppressive circumstances. The act of filming becomes a form of resistance and a way to assert one’s voice in a world that seeks to silence it

For Jafar Panahi, the themes of necessity, freedom, and beauty are central. His films often express a deep need to capture the world around him, particularly the hidden beauty in everyday life, even under oppressive circumstances. The act of filming becomes a form of resistance and a way to assert one’s voice in a world that seeks to silence it

THE PROGRAM

DAY 1 - MEET THE MASTER

DAY 1 - MEET THE MASTER

The workshop begins with an introductory session where participants will meet Master Panahi, gaining insight into his vision and unique filmmaking approach. This will be followed by a theoretical class, where Panahi will share his perspective on cinema and the role of observation and self-expression in his work. During the day, participants will be introduced to the theme that will guide the creation of their short films. In the evening, a welcome cocktail will provide an informal setting for the group to connect and discuss the upcoming days.

DAY 2 - OBSERVING REALITY & SCRIPTWRITING

DAY 2 - OBSERVING & SCRIPTWRITING

The next three days are dedicated to filming. Under the guidance of Master Panahi, participants will translate their scripts into short films, capturing the essence of their observations and ideas. Filming will take place in stunning Monte San Savino, offering a rich backdrop for the participants’ creative visions. Every evening, the group will gather for a meeting with Master Panahi to discuss the day’s work, review footage, and receive feedback on the progress of each short film.

DAY 3 - OBSERVING REALITY & SCRIPTWRITING (continued)

DAY 3 - OBSERVING REALITY & SCRIPTWRITING (continued)

The third day continues with further observation of the surroundings, encouraging participants to refine their understanding of the environment they wish to capture. The scriptwriting process will deepen, with more time dedicated to structuring the short films. Once again, in the evening, Master Panahi will meet with the group, reviewing their work and offering personalized guidance to help them move forward.

DAYS 4 - 6 FILMING

DAYS 4 - 6 FILMING

The next three days are dedicated to filming. Under the guidance of Master Panahi, participants will translate their scripts into short films, capturing the essence of their observations and ideas. Filming will take place in stunning Monte San Savino, offering a rich backdrop for the participants’ creative visions. Every evening, the group will gather for a meeting with Master Panahi to discuss the day’s work, review footage, and receive feedback on the progress of each short film.

DAYS 7 - 9 EDITING

DAYS 7 - 9 EDITING

As filming concludes, the focus shifts to the editing process. Over the course of three days, participants will work on shaping their short films, editing footage, and refining the final product. During this time, Master Panahi will be available to offer insight into the editing process, helping students fine-tune their work and enhance their narratives. These meetings provide an opportunity for reflection and critique, ensuring that each student’s vision is brought to life in its best form.

DAY 10 - SCREENING & FAREWELL

DAY 10 - SCREENING & FAREWELL

The final day culminates in the screening of the short films in the theater, where participants can showcase their work and share their creative journeys with the group. The day concludes with a farewell dinner, where participants and Master Panahi can celebrate the culmination of the workshop. To mark the end of this transformative experience, certificates of completion will be presented, and closing remarks will honor the effort and dedication shown throughout the program.

The workshop will take place in the medieval town of Monte San Savino, a charming and picturesque location ideal for an immersive experience. Surrounded by its rich history and serene landscapes, the town offers the perfect setting for deep personal reflection, collaboration with fellow participants, and the discovery of hidden places and local people that inspire creativity.

The workshop will take place in the medieval town of Monte San Savino, a charming and picturesque location ideal for an immersive experience. Surrounded by its rich history and serene landscapes, the town offers the perfect setting for deep personal reflection, collaboration with fellow participants, and the discovery of hidden places and local people that inspire creativity.

RULES OF THE WORKSHOP

€ 3
800 (or 4,100 for a single room)
  • Accommodation in a 3-star hotel with breakfast and dinner (shared double room with a same-gender roommate)
  • Transfers from Arezzo Train Station to Monte San Savino on August 15, 2025 and return transfers on August 27,2025
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Anyone, regardless of age or background, is welcome to apply. There is no restriction based on professional experience, as we believe every individual has a unique reason for participating in a workshop like this. The first 30 applicants will be selected, and a waiting list will be created.

To apply, please submit a motivation letter and a CV (including links to any visual works, if available). All applicants must also fill out the application form by June 25, 2025.

Participants must arrive in Monte San Savino on August 15, 2025 (the day before the workshop starts) to ensure they are ready to begin on August 16, 2025. Participants are expected to stay for the entire duration of the workshop, which runs until August 26, 2025.

Selected participants are required to bring their own equipment for filming and editing their short films. Please note that the workshop will not provide or rent any filming or technical equipment.

While the workshop does not provide technical equipment, we will be there to assist you throughout the process, helping with film production logistics, guiding you through the beautiful town of Monte San Savino, connecting with locals, and revealing hidden, wonderful places to enrich your filming experience.

Participants must be fluent in English, as the workshop will be conducted in Farsi, with translations provided into English.

Le Giornate del Cinema di Monte San Savino will provide transfers from Arezzo Train Station to Monte San Savino on August 15, 2025. At the end of the workshop, transfers will also be provided from Monte San Savino to Arezzo Train Station on August 27, 2025, the departure day.

HOW TO APPLY

Fill out the official application form, which can be found here: form. 

  • A motivation letter outlining why you wish to participate in this workshop, what you hope to learn, and what drives your passion for filmmaking.
  • A CV that includes your personal details, relevant experiences, and any artistic background.
  • Links to any visual works, such as short films, photography, or other relevant projects (if available).

All applications must be submitted by June 25, 2025.

The workshop is open to anyone regardless of age or professional experience, as we believe everyone has a unique perspective to bring. We will select the first 30 applicants who meet the application criteria. A waiting list will be created in case any selected participants withdraw.

Successful applicants will receive a confirmation email by June 25, 2025. 

Selected participants must complete the payment within the next 5 days after the confirmation date. If they do not complete it, the next person in the waiting list will be selected.

SUPPORT AND SPONSORSHIP

The event is organized by Aretusa Films and held under the patronage of the Municipality of Monte San Savino and the Special Company Monteservizi.

padrão posters_legiornate (692 x 760 px) (14)
padrão posters_legiornate (692 x 760 px) (16)