NIGHTBIRDS

Since 2013, under the leadership of Dominique Welinski and in partnership with the Quinzaine des Cinéastes, the Directors’ Factory has been supporting the emergence of new talent on the international scene. Each year, with the backing of a partner country, the Directors’ Factory brings together eight promising filmmakers, selected for the strength of their first or second feature film projects. In pairs, they co-write and co-direct four short films, which are premiered in May at the Quinzaine des Cinéastes in Cannes.

This film was created as part of the Directors’ Factory Philippines 2024.

Directors' Factory never ceased to surprise me - from scripting until post-production. I don't think I willl ever get to experience anything like this again. The program has taught me tenacity, patience, and collaboration. As a director with a post-production background, it was out of my comfort zone, but I've learned that it was a necessary step to prepare for future films, especially my feature. The program made me confront what I thought I already knew about filmmaking and showed me the magic of working with people you share a vision with, and for that, I will never forget it. - Maria Estela Paiso


Directors' Factory is unlike any other program, one that transcends the ordinary. With unparalleled support, resources and mentorship from our producers, I was able to really hone in my filmmaking skills with a diverse team of passionate individuals. From the outset, it was evident that filmmaking in this context relied heavily on effective collaboration, especially with my co-director. It taught me the invaluable lesson that true collaboration thrives on compromise, and that by embracing the perspectives of others, one can create something truly remarkable. I carry the lessons learned with me as I continue my journey in the world of filmmaking. The factory is a bootcamp and a launchpad to realizing your cinematic dreams. - Ashok Vish