Summer Intensive 2026
The Woods Hole Film Festival Summer Intensive is a four-day immersive program taking place during the second half of the 35th Woods Hole Film Festival. Participants will form a small cohort and attend curated screenings, engage in guided discussions, and connect with visiting filmmakers and festival professionals under the auspices of an instructor, who will lead discussions and help contextualize the films and industry conversations throughout the program.
We created this program to offer young people a unique opportunity to experience the Woods Hole Film Festival. Each year, over 100 filmmakers travel to Woods Hole to showcase what we believe is the best in emerging independent cinema, making the festival an ideal space for gaining insight into the independent film industry and building lasting connections.
Through these experiences, participants will develop a deeper understanding of independent cinema, the film festival landscape, and the creative and professional paths of working filmmakers.
DESCRIPTION
The Summer Intensive is open to young adults ages 18–24 who are interested in film, media, storytelling, or the creative arts. Applicants may be college students or emerging creators seeking deeper exposure to independent filmmaking and the film festival environment.
The program is limited to a small group of participants to encourage discussion, collaboration, and meaningful engagement with festival guests.
Preference may be given to applicants with relevant coursework, creative work, or demonstrated interest in film, media, or storytelling. Participants should be curious, engaged, and eager to learn from filmmakers and peers.
DURATION
Daily, Wednesday, July 29 through Saturday, August 1, 2026
SCOPE OF ACTIVITIES
The program includes facilitated discussions and mentorship designed to help participants critically engage with films and better understand the independent filmmaking landscape.
Participants will;
- Attend curated festival screenings and filmmaker Q&A sessions
- Participate in daily discussions led by festival guests and mentors
- Engage with filmmakers, programmers, and festival staff
- Attend select panels, workshops, and festival events
- Reflect on the festival experience through short writing or creative exercises
Through these activities, participants will gain insight into storytelling, filmmaking, and the independent film festival environment.
REQUIREMENTS
Participants must:
- Be between the ages of 18–24
- Be available in person for the entire duration of the program
- Provide their own transportation and housing
LOCATION
In-person in Woods Hole, Massachusetts
Participants are responsible for arranging their own transportation and housing. Finding summer housing in Woods Hole and Falmouth can be a challenge, so participants are encouraged to plan early.
PROGRAM COST: $275
The program fee will include access to select festival screenings, discussions, workshops, and program activities.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Click the button below to fill out the application form.
