This year, the program gathers seven mentors from diverse international filmmaking backgrounds and markets, each with extensive experience in production, project development, distribution, and film education. These experts will work directly with 10 selected Asian art-house film projects to help filmmakers refine their concepts and enhance their access to the international market.
Lai Weijie (Producer): An experienced producer in the development and production of independent Asian film projects, who also actively participates in mentoring and supporting international film initiatives.
Nicolas Brigaud-Robert (Producer, Executive, Co-CEO & Founder of Playtime): A prominent figure in the international film industry, Brigaud-Robert possesses years of experience in global production, distribution, and co-production through the Playtime network.
Duong Dieu Linh (Screenwriter, Director): A Vietnamese filmmaker recognized for her distinct personal style and contemporary perspectives. Duong Dieu Linh has participated in numerous prestigious international project development programs and film festivals.
Claire Lajoumard (Producer – Acrobates Films): A French producer with extensive experience in supporting international art-house film projects, particularly works from Asia and emerging cinematic landscapes.
Vincent Wang (Producer - House on Fire): A producer with long-standing experience in project development, international co-production, and assisting young filmmakers in accessing regional and global film markets.
Gualberto Ferrari (Screenwriter, Director): An international screenwriter and director with extensive experience in teaching, mentoring, and developing art-house film projects across various renowned film programs worldwide.
Stefano Tealdi (Producer, Pitching Expert): A leading expert in international project pitching and development, and a familiar mentor at major project markets and film festivals across Europe and Asia.
Through intensive consultation sessions, the mentor panel will assist filmmakers in refining their creative direction, structuring production strategies, securing appropriate financing, and sharpening their project pitching skills before international partners, film funds, and investors.
The participation of these experts not only elevates the professional quality of the program but also opens up networking, collaboration, and growth opportunities for Asian art-house film projects on their journey to the global market.
The 4th Da Nang Asian Film Festival (DANAFF IV), running from June 28 to July 4, 2026, continues to assert its status as a prestigious regional cinematic venue where filmmakers, experts, and organizations gather, share, and forge new opportunities for Asian cinema.
Accompanying DANAFF IV as a Gold Sponsor,VPBank boasts a unique and expansive ecosystem, comprehensively meeting the needs of over 30 million customers with the mission of "Prospering Vietnam".
