News
AFI Alumni Win At The Academy Awards
We are proud to celebrate the remarkable achievements of the AFI Conservatory community at this year’s Academy Awards®! Congratulations to Autumn Durald Arkapaw (AFI Class of 2009), winner of the Academy Award® for Best Cinematography for SINNERS.
We also celebrate three Oscar® wins for films executive produced by Kim Magnusson (AFI Class of 1991): MR NOBODY AGAINST PUTIN (Best Documentary Feature), ALL THE EMPTY ROOMS (Best Documentary Short Film), which was also executive produced by Eric Nichols (AFI Class of 2013) and TWO PEOPLE EXCHANGING SALIVA (Best Live Action Short Film).
Click below to view the full list of nominated and award-winning films from AFI Alumni.
AFI Alumni Make Their Mark at SXSW 2026
From March 12-18, the SXSW Film Festival will bring together trailblazing storytellers from across the nation for one of the year’s most anticipated film events. We’re proud to highlight AFI Conservatory Alumni, whose groundbreaking new work will take center stage at the festival.
Hollywood Guilds Honor AFI Alumni
AFI Conservatory Alumni have been recognized by many of Hollywood’s leading guilds this awards season, earning top honors across film and television. Click below to see which Alumni were celebrated by the ACE, DGA, PGA, ASC and WGA!
Class of 2005 Honors Their Own With Memorial Tree
In a heartfelt tribute to the enduring bonds formed at AFI, the Class of 2005 has donated and dedicated a tree on Campus in memory of their beloved classmates who have passed. The oak tree from Northeast Trees, accompanied by a commemorative plaque, stands as a living symbol of the creativity, collaboration and lifelong friendships that defined their time at the Institute.
Last fall, during their 20-year reunion, members of the Class of 2005 reflected on the shared dreams and artistic journeys that first brought them to Campus. The memorial serves as a place to remember and celebrate the lasting impact of their classmates’ work. Located at the Campus entrance, the tree will grow alongside future generations of Fellows, embodying the spirit of those whose artistry and friendship remain part of AFI’s legacy.
We miss you, Gianpaolo Santarelli, Marguerite Dunbar, Dwayne Alexander, Bill Balas and Tom Curran.
Digital Diplomas Now Available
Digital diplomas/certificates are now available for Alumni to purchase from the AFI Conservatory through Parchment for $45. Digital credentials complement a paper diploma and are faster to access and can be shared on social media. It is a great way to immediately share your accomplishment with potential employers, official government credential-approving agencies, family and friends. A digital credential will bear the names of officials currently in office at AFI at the time the replacement is requested. If you are interested in purchasing a digital credential, visit AFI’s Parchment storefront.
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
The Cinematography Intensive for Women (CIW) is underway on the AFI Campus this week, offering aspiring cinematographers a hands-on experience. The tuition-free, four-day workshop is presented by Panavision, led by AFI Conservatory Cinematography Discipline Head Stephen Lighthill, ASC, and organized by the Innovative Programs team. Thank you to this year’s participating AFI Alumni – and Academy Awards® winner! – Autumn Durald Arkapaw (AFI Class of 2009), Amy Vincent (AFI Class of 1991) and other filmmakers who helped train the 2026 cohort.
Vuk Mitrovic (AFI Class of 2012) has launched the Los Feliz Film Fest, a new short film festival in Los Angeles dedicated to celebrating emerging filmmakers. Taking place April 26–27 in Los Feliz, the festival will feature curated screenings, panel discussions and mentorship sessions. Filmmakers can learn more and submit their work here: https://losfelizfilm.org/
The new crime thriller, WAR DRIVER, written and produced by Daniel Casey (AFI Class of 2007), opens in theaters today. Watch the trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vTC_PtRc854
Guy Magar (AFI Class of 1977) is celebrating the re-release of two feature films: LOOKIN’ ITALIAN, a mob dramedy he wrote, directed, produced and self-financed, and RETRIBUTION, which he co-wrote, directed and produced. Both are now available on Blu-ray and across VOD platforms.
Maria Ines Manchego (AFI Class of 2016) served as cinematographer on BIG GIRLS DON’T CRY, a New Zealand coming-of-age drama directed by Paloma Schneideman that premiered at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival. Following its festival run, the film is scheduled for a limited theatrical release in 2026.
IN MY BLOOD has been named the winner of the Independent TV Pilot Competition at the South by Southwest Film & TV Festival. Congratulations to Mingjue Hu (AFI Class of 2023), who served as cinematographer on the award-winning project.
Lynne Littman (AFI DWW Class of 1974) recently spoke with IndieWire about her 1983 film TESTAMENT. The harrowing post-apocalyptic drama has been added to the Criterion Collection and is now available on Blu-ray, featuring a range of bonus materials, including Littman’s earlier documentaries.
Marina Stabile (AFI Class of 2009) is featured in a recent episode of ANGLE ON PRODUCERS, the industry podcast hosted by Emmy®-nominated producer Carolina Groppa. In the episode, Stabile reflects on AFI’s role in shaping her voice and launching her early career, as well as her acclaimed film JOSEPHINE. You can watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/3e0ETcCO-Jc?si=CcUHKfXtq6Y4lHvG