A constellation of cinematic talent, including Oscar winners Halle Berry and Regina King, acclaimed director Celine Song, and veteran actress Meg Ryan, is slated to participate in the 2026 edition of the prestigious Tribeca and Chanel’s Through Her Lens Women’s Filmmaker Program. This annual artist development initiative, now in its 11th year, is designed to empower and support emerging women and non-binary filmmakers, providing crucial funding, creative mentorship, and hands-on development opportunities within the competitive film industry. The program is scheduled to run from September 22-24, bringing together established industry leaders with promising new voices.
A High-Profile Jury and Mentorship Lineup
The 2026 installment of the Through Her Lens Women’s Filmmaker Program will feature a distinguished jury responsible for evaluating the presented projects. Halle Berry, known for her groundbreaking performances and directorial debut, will join Regina King, an Academy Award-winning actress and accomplished director, and Meg Ryan, a beloved figure in romantic comedies and a director in her own right. Their collective experience spans decades in front of and behind the camera, offering invaluable insight to the aspiring filmmakers. Rounding out the esteemed jury are Oscar-winning cinematographer Autumn Durald Arkapaw, celebrated for her work on films like "Sinners," and rising actress Ella Rubin.
Beyond the jury, the program has assembled an impressive roster of mentors and conversation leaders. Celine Song, whose critically acclaimed work has garnered significant attention, will serve as a mentor, guiding participants through various stages of their creative process. She will be joined by Gina Prince-Bythewood, director of "The Woman King," and veteran producer Ellen Goldsmith-Vein. Playwright and screenwriter Aleshea Harris, recognized for her powerful work "Is God Is," and actress Fala Chen also contribute their expertise as mentors, offering personalized guidance and industry perspectives to the selected filmmaking teams.
Shaping the Future of Storytelling: Conversation Leaders
The educational component of the Through Her Lens program is further enriched by a series of high-level conversations led by prominent figures from diverse areas of the entertainment industry. The 2026 edition will feature Grammy-winning artist H.E.R., renowned for her musical contributions to film, and Patty Jenkins, the visionary director behind "Wonder Woman." They will be joined by Oscar-winning casting director Cassandra Kulukundis, who has shaped countless iconic films, and Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning composer Laura Karpman, recognized for her innovative scores.
Completing the lineup of conversation leaders are Oscar-nominated costume designer Miyako Bellizzi, whose work has defined contemporary cinematic aesthetics, and producer Riva Marker, known for her impactful projects. These leaders will delve into specialized topics, offering participants a holistic understanding of film production and the collaborative nature of filmmaking, from conceptualization to post-production. Their sessions are designed to provide practical advice and inspire creative approaches across various disciplines.
The Genesis and Impact of Through Her Lens
Founded in 2015 by Tribeca Enterprises and Chanel, the Through Her Lens Women’s Filmmaker Program was established with a clear mission: to combat the pervasive gender disparity within the film industry by providing tangible support to U.S.-based women and non-binary filmmakers. Over the past decade, the initiative has become a vital pipeline for emerging talent, offering not just financial assistance but also critical creative support and hands-on development opportunities that are often inaccessible to newcomers. The program specifically targets short films, serving as a crucial stepping stone for directors, writers, and producers looking to establish their careers.
The program’s structure is intensive and highly interactive. During the three-day immersive experience, participants engage in mentor-led sessions covering a wide array of essential filmmaking topics. These include script development, directing techniques, the intricacies of music composition for film, and the art of costume design. The culmination of these sessions is a live pitch event where each team presents their short film concept to the jury. One deserving team is then awarded full financing to bring their short film to life, with comprehensive support from Tribeca Studios. Additionally, four other teams receive development grants, providing crucial resources to advance their projects.
A Decade of Empowering Voices
Since its inception, the Through Her Lens Women’s Filmmaker Program has significantly impacted the landscape of independent cinema. Over the past 11 years, the workshop has facilitated the development of 50 short films, with 10 of these receiving full funding and subsequently moving into production. The success of these projects extends beyond their creation; many Through Her Lens-backed films have achieved critical acclaim, premiering at prestigious international film festivals such such as Sundance and the Toronto International Film Festival. This exposure has been instrumental in launching the careers of numerous filmmakers.
Furthermore, these films have secured distribution through major platforms, including HBO Max, Searchlight Pictures, The Criterion Channel, and other prominent outlets. This level of industry recognition and distribution underscores the quality and potential of the projects nurtured by the program, demonstrating its effectiveness in bringing diverse stories and perspectives to wider audiences. The program not only fosters individual talent but also contributes to a richer, more inclusive cinematic culture.
Strategic Guidance from the Advisory Committee
Further strengthening the program’s reach and impact is the Through Her Lens advisory committee, established in 2023. This committee comprises a formidable group of industry stalwarts who provide strategic guidance and advocacy for the initiative. Members include the aforementioned Laura Karpman and Patty Jenkins, alongside Tribeca co-founder Jane Rosenthal, acclaimed actress and director Lucy Liu, and influential figures such as Tessa Thompson, Olivia Wilde, Jane Fonda, A.V. Rockwell, Kerry Washington, and Teyana Taylor. The collective influence and experience of this committee reinforce the program’s commitment to fostering a new generation of filmmakers and ensuring their voices are heard and supported within the industry.
The advisory committee plays a crucial role in shaping the long-term vision of Through Her Lens, ensuring its continued relevance and efficacy in an ever-evolving media landscape. Their involvement signals the program’s commitment to sustained growth and its dedication to dismantling barriers for women and non-binary individuals in film.
Spotlight on the 2026 Selected Projects
The 2026 edition of the Through Her Lens Women’s Filmmaker Program will champion five distinct and compelling short film projects, each offering a unique narrative vision. These selected projects exemplify the diverse storytelling potential the program aims to cultivate.
BREAK
"BREAK" is written and directed by Jasmine J. Johnson, with Katy Wicker serving as producer. The film centers on a young Black surfer whose brutal wipeout goes viral, thrusting her into an uncomfortable public spotlight. As her hunger for external validation intensifies, it begins to jeopardize the profound connection she once felt with the ocean, which had previously been a source of freedom and solace. The narrative explores themes of identity, social media’s impact, and the struggle to maintain authenticity amidst public scrutiny.
CAMOUFLAGE
Written and directed by Jinsui Song and produced by Shen Wei, "CAMOUFLAGE" transports audiences to Shenzhen, China, in 2007. The story follows an 11-year-old androgynous girl who, due to a clerical error, is mistakenly placed in the boys’ unit during mandatory military training. Undeterred, she embarks on her own secret experiment, navigating the rigid gender expectations and cultural norms of her environment. This film promises a poignant exploration of gender identity, self-discovery, and resilience in an unexpected setting.
COLD EMBRACE
"COLD EMBRACE," from writer-director Victoria Trow and producer Sabina Friedman-Seitz, delves into an unconventional therapeutic journey. The protagonist, Ella, is prescribed an emotional support python as part of an experimental new therapy program. To her surprise, she discovers that the animal’s primal instincts are capable of addressing more than just her anxiety. The film explores the boundaries of therapy, human-animal connections, and the unexpected paths to healing, potentially blending elements of drama with psychological suspense.
COWARDS
Directed and written by Gem Little, with Kseniya Yorsh producing, "COWARDS" is set in 1999 Chicago. The film introduces Diamond, an 11-year-old girl living a transient life, raised with a tough, survivalist mentality inherited from her family. Over the course of a single summer day, a significant rift develops with her best friend, challenging everything she has been taught about strength and resilience. This narrative is expected to be a coming-of-age story that examines loyalty, vulnerability, and the redefinition of toughness through a child’s eyes.
GRIPPY SOCKS
Carlen May-Mann writes and directs "GRIPPY SOCKS," produced by Cacá Montagnana. The film follows Kate, who checks herself into the emergency room due to suicidal ideation. She endures thirty-six bizarre and mundane hours in a state of limbo. A surreal encounter during her stay forces her to confront a fundamental question: does she truly want to die? This project promises a raw and intimate portrayal of mental health struggles, existential questioning, and the often-unpredictable path toward self-revelation, using dark humor and introspective drama.
These five projects represent the vanguard of new storytelling, embodying the Through Her Lens program’s commitment to fostering diverse narratives and supporting the innovative visions of women and non-binary filmmakers. As these films move from concept to screen, they will undoubtedly contribute fresh perspectives to the cinematic landscape, furthering the program’s legacy of empowerment and artistic excellence. The involvement of such high-caliber industry figures ensures that the 2026 edition will not only elevate these emerging talents but also continue to inspire a broader conversation about inclusion and representation in Hollywood.
