May 2025 Events
AAPI Heritage Month Lunch & Learn with AFI Alumni Amy Wang and Byron Wu
In celebration of AAPI Heritage Month this May, the AFI Office of Fellow Affairs and the Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center will be hosting two acclaimed AFI Conservatory Alumni: Amy Wang (AFI Class of 2017, SLANTED, CRAZY RICH ASIANS 2) and Byron Wu (AFI Class of 2019, THE BROTHERS SUN). Join us on May 9 from 12:00–1:00 p.m. for a compelling conversation with the pair. Due to limited availability, attendance requires a strong interest in AAPI cinema.
“Framing the Future”: AI Workshop from May 19–21
“Framing the Future”: AI Workshop from May 19–21
This spring, AFI will host “Framing the Future,” a three-day workshop series on the role of AI in filmmaking, featuring hands-on tools, emerging technologies and critical conversations around how we preserve artistic integrity in the age of AI. Hear from visionary leaders at the forefront of tech and storytelling, including Moran Cerf (Neuroscientist and Professor, Columbia Business School), Rebecca Barkin (Co-Founder and CEO, Lamina1), Prem Akkaraju (CEO, Stability AI) and others shaping the future of filmmaking! Seating is limited, and space will be confirmed based on availability. If you are interested, please email our Innovative Programs team to inquire about attending.
AFI Alumni Meetup with Bill Dill, ASC!
The Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center invites you to a special Zoom meetup on Wednesday, May 21 at 6 p.m. PST with Bill Dill, ASC – AFI Conservatory’s first-ever Dean’s Chair of Visual Storytelling.
A master cinematographer and AFI Conservatory instructor for over 30 years, Dill has shaped generations of filmmakers with his expertise in visual storytelling.
This session brings AFI Alumni together to connect, share industry insights and revisit core filmmaking principles. Bill will also lead a deep dive into scene study, bringing his uniquely refined perspective to a curated selection of scenes, as only he can.
Don’t miss this chance to learn from a true master and engage with fellow AFI graduates. Please RSVP here and a Zoom link will be emailed to you shortly.
Last Chance to Submit Your Short Film to AFI FEST!
The countdown is on — the final deadline to submit your short film to AFI FEST 2025 is May 31. Don’t miss your opportunity to showcase your work at one of the most prestigious festivals in the country when AFI FEST Presented by Canva returns to the TCL Chinese Theatre in Hollywood from October 22–26, 2025. Spotlighting transformative stories from groundbreaking artists, the festival accepts live action, animated and documentary short films, and is recognized as both an Academy Award® and BAFTA-qualifying festival. As an AFI Alum, your submission fee is on us! Email fest.programming@AFI.com to claim your waiver.
Professional Workshop with Career Coach Jim Arnoff
On Tuesday, June 24 from 6:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. join entertainment career coach, talent agent consultant and AFI workshop facilitator Jim Arnoff at the Lawrence Herbert Alumni Center for an immersive, interactive workshop that will transform how you view fear, failure and risk-taking—not as setbacks, but as signs you’re boldly building the entertainment career you deserve. Through a step-by-step coaching approach, you’ll learn how to reframe limiting thoughts and take empowered action toward your ideal path in the industry.