News
AFI Alumni At TIFF
AFI celebrates the AFI Conservatory Alumni projects premiering at the 51st Toronto International Film Festival, taking place September 10–20, 2026. Congratulations to our Alumni whose work will be showcased before audiences from around the world.
AFI Named One Of The Top Film Schools In The Nation
The AFI Conservatory has once again been recognized by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the nation’s top film schools. Congratulations to our extraordinary AFI Alumni, Fellows, Staff and Faculty, whose talent, dedication and achievements continue to champion the future of the art form.
Applications Are Now Open For The AFI DWW+ Class Of 2028
Applications are now open for the AFI DWW+ Class of 2028. For more than 50 years, the tuition-free, year-long workshop has supported emerging directors with mentorship from industry professionals and the opportunity to develop and produce an original short film.
If you know an aspiring director, please help spread the word by sharing this opportunity. Applicants are also invited to attend one of our upcoming Virtual Office Hours sessions to learn more about the application process, workshop timeline and participant experience.
Applications close Wednesday, September 9 at 11:59 p.m. PT.
Reserve a Space at the Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center
Planning a meeting, table read or rehearsal? As an AFI Conservatory Alum, you can book our versatile conference and multi-purpose rooms at the Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center. Please review the updated campus access website and request a campus visit.
Join the AFI Alumni Network on Backlot
Looking for collaborators, industry insights or opportunities to mentor fellow AFI Alumni? Stay connected with the latest happenings in the AFI community by signing up for AFI Backlot. It’s your space to share, connect and strengthen our creative network!
Request an AFI Email
Need an AFI email address to streamline communication with fellow Alumni or assistance with your AFI Alumni account? Our Alumni Affairs team is here to help – contact us today!
AFI FRIDAY UPDATE
A CLUELESS sequel series starring Alicia Silverstone has been picked up by Paramount+ and will be executive-produced by the original film’s director, Amy Heckerling (AFI Class of 1974).
Rayana Rasamee (AFI Class of 2022) and Lidia Nikonova (AFI Class of 2017) are among the nine cinematographers recognized in American Cinematographer’s 2026 Rising Stars of Cinematography.
Polly Morgan (AFI Class of 2010) serves as cinematographer on Gina Prince-Bythewood’s epic fantasy film CHILDREN OF BLOOD AND BONE, starring Thuso Mbedu, Damson Idris, Cynthia Erivo, Regina King, Idris Elba and Viola Davis. The film opens in theaters on January 15, 2027. Watch the trailer here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HnWvg90lQt8
The late David Lynch (AFI Class of 1970) will be honored during the returning TWIN PEAKS: Conversation With the Stars tour, featuring cast members from the iconic series at events across the U.S. beginning this September. The tour will include a tribute video celebrating the life and legacy of the acclaimed filmmaker and TWIN PEAKS co-creator.
Siân Heder (AFI Class of 2005) will receive a 2026 TIFF Tribute Award at this year’s Toronto International Film Festival in recognition of her outstanding contributions to cinema. Heder’s latest film, BEING HEUMANN, will also open the festival.
Suncatcher Productions has acquired theatrical distribution rights to IF I TELL YOU, a family drama directed by Tessa Blake (AFI DWW+ Class of 2014).
Ernie Altbacker (AFI Class of 1992) is the writer of “Jay and Silent Bob’s Joint Venture,” a new video game starring the iconic duo played by Jason Mewes and Kevin Smith.
Oscar-winning actor Ellen Burstyn (AFI DWW+ Class of 1974) stars alongside Dakota Johnson in FLESH IMPACT, a 17-minute short film directed by Maggie Gyllenhaal. The film, in which the two actors portray different versions of Marilyn Monroe, will make its world premiere at the Venice Film Festival this September.
Turner Classic Movies’ new FILMS ON FILM series will feature Martin Brest’s (AFI Class of 1973) acclaimed comedy MIDNIGHT RUN as part of its premiere lineup. The weekly programming block pairs documentaries with films that offer deeper insight into their subjects.
Production Manager Gottlieb Pallendorf (AFI Class of 1994) has completed filming on THE ONE FROM ABOVE, a TV comedy produced by Rundfilm for the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation and Bavarian Broadcasting Corporation.