Two evenings focused on the foundations of filmmaking and storytelling.

Together with writer & director Bear Damen, we’ll explore what makes a story work, how to turn abstract ideas into filmable concepts, pitch them with clarity, and bring them to life through image, movement, and sound.

Day 1 — Foundations of Filmmaking & Storytelling

25 November | 17:00–22:30 (with dinner break)

The first day sets the creative groundwork for the workshop. Participants get to know each other, explore the core elements of filmmaking — story, visuals, and sound — and learn what makes a story emotionally resonant and worth telling.

Through hands-on exercises, they develop short film ideas, craft 1-minute pitches, and practice visual storytelling without dialogue. The evening focuses on directing for emotional truth and team collaboration, as small groups begin shaping their own short “proof-of-concept” projects for Day 2.

Highlights:

• Filmmaking foundations: story, visuals, sound

• 3-act story structure & short script writing

• Turning ideas into filmable concepts + pitching practice

• Visual storytelling exercise (no dialogue)

• Directing and collaboration in small teams

Day 2 — Bringing Ideas to Life & Presenting Them

27 November | 17:00–22:30 (with dinner break)

The second day focuses on turning ideas into films and learning the collaborative process behind production. Participants take on creative roles, shoot their short concept films, and receive on-the-spot guidance while filming.

In the evening, teams edit and shape their stories, exploring how rhythm, sound, and tone influence emotion. The day ends with project presentations — each team shares their pitch and short film, followed by group feedback and a reflection on what makes stories connect with audiences.

Highlights:

• Hands-on shooting with team roles and guidance

• Editing for rhythm, emotion, and tone

• Using sound and color to enhance storytelling

• Pitch + short film presentations with feedback

• Discussion and resources for next creative steps

No experience needed — just you, your phone, and a passion for film and storytelling.

Who Should Attend?

• Aspiring filmmakers

• Content creators

• Visual storytellers

• Students or hobbyists looking to explore film

⚠️EXTRA INFO:

• Early-bird tickets are €250 until Nov 10, then €350.

• Students get 15% off with a valid ID.

• Optional dinner (from nearby pizza place): pizza + soft drink — €25.

  
  

About the Master

Bear Damen

Bear Damen (1986) is a Dutch-Indonesian filmmaker. Having spent much of his teenage years sailing around the world with his family on a small sailboat, Bear’s diverse experiences have shaped his distinct approach to storytelling. Often exploring the question: Why do some people understand each other so poorly?

His films include the short Synthesize Me, set in Mexico and selected for competition at SXSW. He is currently developing a feature film. With a vast background in short-form storytelling, Bear has directed music videos for artists such as James Blake (a UKMVA winner), Mac DeMarco & Benny Sings, and Royel Otis, among others.

Selected Works

Short Films

• Synthesize Me (2025)
  

Music Videos

• Mac deMarco & Benny Sings — Rolled Up

• James Blake - Say What You Will

• Benny Sings - Not Enough

• Weval - Open Up that Door ft. Kilimanjaro