August 5 - 15, 2026

Locarno, Switzerland

Submission Deadline: May 28, 2026

Call Description: https://www.locarnofestival.ch/it/about/factory/real-academy.html

Program Overview:

REAL – Reality Exploration Academy of Locarno is a newly reimagined ten-day program dedicated to critically engaging with the evolving landscape of non-fiction cinema. Building on the 26-year legacy of the Documentary Summer School, REAL marks a bold shift toward interdisciplinary exploration at the intersection of audiovisual theory, creative practice, and contemporary media ethics.

Hosted by the Institute of Media and Journalism (IMeG) at Università della Svizzera italiana, in collaboration with the Locarno Film Festival, REAL offers a transformative educational journey where critical thinking meets cinematic imagination.

What is REAL?

REAL– Reality Exploration Academy of Locarno is where critical thinking meets cinematic imagination. Held during the Locarno Film Festival and hosted by the Institute of Media and Journalism at the Università della Svizzera italiana, REAL provides a transformative educational experience that dives deep into core questions: What is the “real” today? How do we engage with it ethically, creatively, critically?

This is the only program at the Locarno Film Festival awarding ECTS credits (up to 6), making it a unique opportunity for Bachelor, Master, and PhD students, as well as emerging filmmakers who want to deepen their theoretical reflection on the real. REAL embraces an innovative approach that incorporates video essays as practice-based research, utilizing Locarno Film Festival as a laboratory environment for both study and creation.

REAL is not just a course. It’s a journey of discovery that opens doors to new insights and forms lifelong bonds among the next generation of talents. It’s a conversation, a community, and a launchpad for reimagining and questioning how we engage with reality through cinema.

Is REAL for You?

If you’re curious, critical, and ready to challenge the way we see the world through film—then REAL is the right place for you.

REAL is calling for:

• University students at Bachelor, Master, or PhD level who want more than just classroom theory.
  
• Emerging filmmakers who want to deepen their understanding of reality through moving images.
  
• Cinematic minds, curious thinkers and bold storytellers obsessed with exploring reality on screen— from raw truths to hybrid forms.
  
• Fluent English speakers ready to dive into global conversations (all sessions are in English).
  

If I am selected, what can I expect from the REAL Academy?

10 unforgettable days of ideas, images, and inspiration at one of the world’s most iconic film festivals.

• Inspiring lectures with leading international scholars and filmmakers
  
• Privileged/priority access to the Locarno “Future of Cinema” conference, August 10-12, which brings leading international researchers on cinema and the audiovisual.
  
• Curated screenings and Q&As from the Locarno Film Festival and Semaine de la Critique
  
• A deep-dive seminar on the video essay, blending artistic research and critical media theory
  
• Creation of a final video essay expressing, your personal reflection on the real, to receive your credit for to up to 6 ECTS recognition
  
• (Experience with video production is encouraged but not required - video essay assignments are adaptable to all levels of expertise).
  
• An official certificate of participation
  
• Festival Accreditation that gives you access to everything the Festival has to offer
• 10 nights at the Papio College in Ascona, cozy triple rooms shared with fellow participants, private bathroom, and breakfast included, all in a beautiful lakeside setting just 8 minutes from the Festival hub, with easy access via the Festival shuttle bus – included in your participation.
  
• Evening events, informal gatherings, real networking — the kind that shifts your perspective, not just your LinkedIn profile.
  
• A global networking playground with fellow creatives and thinkers from around the world.
  

Participation fee: CHF 800 covering your stay, festival accreditation, lectures, screenings, and more. You just cover your travel and meals (except breakfast).

Which dates do I need to put in my diary and keep free if selected?

• March 10, 2026 – applications open
  
• May 28, 2026 - deadline for sending in your application
  
• June 14, 2026 – by this date you will receive an answer in respect of your application
  
• 5–15 August 2026 – participation in the program and Locarno Film Festival
  

Organizing Committee

• Prof. Kevin B. Lee, Locarno Film Festival Professor for the Future of Cinema and the Audiovisual Arts at USI. Filmmaker, media artist, and leading expert in video essays and artistic research.
  
• Dr. Eleonora Benecchi, Lecturer and Researcher at USI, expert in audiovisual theory, digital cultures, and social media.
  
• Laura Pranteddu, Doctoral student and researcher at USI, responsible for the audiovisual theory and production lab, with expertise in AI in journalism.
  
• Flavia Mazzarino, Doctoral student and researcher at USI in visual arts, with expertise in experimental cinema, curatorial practices, and avant-garde film production.
  
• Giulia Villani, Doctoral student and researcher at USI in digital communication, with expertise in consumer culture, public opinion, and cultural production in online environments.