Reykjavik Int' Film Festival: This Year's Talent Lab
I had the honor and pleasure of hosting this year's Talent Lab at the Reykjavik International Film Festival. It was my first time serving as the art director for the Talent Lab, and I had the privilege of collaborating closely with Amalía Sif Jessen, who co-organized everything to perfection with me. I also worked alongside the festival director, Hrönn Marinosdóttir, and her team members, including Sigriður Pétursdóttir, Saga Ísold, Kristjana Magnúsdóttir, and many others.
The Talent Lab brought together a diverse group of 37 filmmakers from around the world, creating a vibrant and dynamic environment for learning, collaboration, and experiencing great films. All of the filmmakers had already made a short film or two and had some experience, so when I designed the schedule, I needed to ensure that my teaching would challenge them.
I always say that teaching helps me become better at what I do. An important part of teaching for me is enhancing my ability to listen to students. My approach balances between lecturing and engaging, but most importantly, I try to calibrate what I offer and synchronize it with the students' needs.
A central theme of the seminar was the concept that filmmaking resembles poetry—an abstract and enigmatic art form that defies complete understanding or definition.
The group was very active this year. I offered Zoom sessions beforehand to get to know everyone as much as possible—to understand what would help them the most when they arrived in Iceland. They also shared with me the projects they were working on so I could better comprehend their needs. When I say the group was active, I mean they were very generous with each other, with me, and with our guests. They hardly blinked throughout the Talent Lab—full attention, polite, helpful—all the makings of professionals with untiring ambition.
snashots from the Talent Lab | Christina Ienna - additional photo credit
Filmmaking as Poetry: A central theme of the seminar was the concept that filmmaking resembles poetry—an abstract and enigmatic art form that defies complete understanding or definition. I highlighted the importance of filmmakers trusting their instincts, as the creative process is inherently unpredictable, much like a dream. There is no definitive formula for creating a successful film, but following one’s intuition remains essential.
About: Reykjavik International Film Festival – is one of the largest and most diverse cultural events in Iceland. RIFF is an independent and non-profit festival. The RIFF staff works year-round in preparation, but as the festival approaches, numerous volunteers from all over the world join in, and the festival owes much to them.
To apply for Talent Lab in 2025, check out this Link!
✅ Olaf de Fleur - Film Classes:
★★★★★ "Like Going To Film School" - Marios Agapitos
★★★★★ "Motivational And Enlightening work" - Gini Heywood
1 - Learn Filmmaking By Doing A Short Film: https://skl.sh/3BSd5Vk
2 - Idea To Film Reality: https://skl.sh/3lHgsJ2
3 - Learn Documentary Filmmaking: https://skl.sh/3IbbWds
4 - Learn Movie Trailer Editing: https://skl.sh/3S9QR76
5 - Learn Screenwriting: https://skl.sh/3Ux8Aaa
6 - Make A Film Proposal: https://skl.sh/3WUpKPG