Tarik Saleh Leads the Fourth Söderlångvik Masterclass – Nordic Directors and Actors Invited to Apply Now
This autumn, the Söderlångvik Masterclass proudly welcomes award-winning screenwriter and director Tarik Saleh, known for his gripping political thrillers, to Finland’s Kimito Island. His acclaimed Cairo Trilogy has captivated international audiences, most recently with Eagles of the Republic, which premiered in the Main Competition at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival. Saleh is also known for his long-time collaboration with actor Fares Fares, who plays the lead character in Saleh’s films.
This edition of the masterclass brings together directors and actors for a deep dive into the filmmaking process from script to screen, through the lens of Tarik Saleh’s Cairo Trilogy. Together with Saleh, the participants will unpack how creative collaboration and directorial vision take shape at every stage of the filmmaking journey, from the first spark of an idea and the hunt for financing, through the intense rhythm of production and post, all the way to the film’s big leap into the world via festivals, distribution, and sales.
The masterclass not only deepens participants’ understanding of the actor–director dynamic, but also offers valuable insight into the essential role both play at each step of the filmmaking process, guided by Saleh’s sharp perspective and extensive experience.
“I look forward to together examining the possibilities and challenges in making films in a world where truth is stranger than fiction,” says Saleh about heading the Söderlångvik Masterclass.
From 18–21 September 2025, a carefully selected group of 12 film professionals from across the Nordics will take part in a hands-on, three-day residency at the historic Söderlångvik grounds on Kimito Island – once home to arts patron and film enthusiast Amos Anderson.
The call is now open for directors and actors based in the Nordic countries. The participants must have already worked on a few professional projects.
The deadline for applications is 8 August 2025.
Read the eligibility criteria and apply here.
For more information:
Inka Hietala
Söderlångvik Masterclass Curator
inka@hiff.fi
For interview requests:
Anni Rossi
Söderlångvik Masterclass Communications
anni.rossi@hiff.fi
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Finnish archipelago, the Söderlångvik Masterclass offers a rare opportunity for intensive learning, creative exploration, and meaningful connection, guided by one of the Nordic region’s leading filmmakers.
The Söderlångvik Masterclass is a residency initiative developed by the arts fund Föreningen Konstsamfundet in collaboration with Helsinki International Film Festival — Love & Anarchy. The initiative started in 2024, and this marks the fourth edition of the masterclass.