Rotterdam Lab 2025 welcomes global film producers for its 25th edition in the Netherlands
The Rotterdam Lab 2025, marking its 25th anniversary, will run from February 1 to 5 during the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) Pro Days in the Netherlands. This renowned training workshop offers emerging film producers a platform to hone their industry skills, build global networks, and explore critical aspects of film financing, sales, and distribution.
This year, the Lab features five producers selected through an open call, reflecting its commitment to diversity and the promotion of inclusive storytelling. Their work emphasizes themes such as identity, empathy, and human connection, fostering global dialogue through cinema. They will join over 70 producers at IFFR 2025.
Aigerim Satybaldy from Kazakhstan, founder of A Films, has an extensive background in promoting Asian cinema. Her projects include "Leg" (CNC Cannes Co-production Workshop 2024) and "Birds Fly South" (Red Sea IFF Talent Days 2023). Aigerim is known for producing films that resonate emotionally, aiming to inspire the next generation of filmmakers with authentic narratives.
Valentina Arango V, originally from Colombia and now based in Chile, co-founded Patológica to support creators and challenge societal polarization through empathetic storytelling. She is producing the documentary series The Fourth Wall and developing fiction and documentary projects that delve into primal human emotions.
Adriana Racasan, a Romanian producer, is affiliated with Libra Film and Point Film. With two decades of experience, she has worked on acclaimed films like Servants and Hesitation Wound. She won the Cannes Producers Network Prize in 2022 and has recently directed her own short film, Bubble Bath, which is touring international festivals.
Frederico Mesquita from Portugal founded SEARA FILMES and specializes in films exploring complex human and social relationships. His recent work includes the short film Francisco Perdido, which premiered at Curtas Vila do Conde IFF 2024. With a focus on authentic storytelling, Frederico is committed to fostering collaborative creative environments.
Emir Melek, a Turkish producer and co-founder of Luna Filmworks, has achieved success with his debut feature Kavur and follow-up Tomato, Pepper, Depression. Both works received widespread acclaim. Emir aims to push the boundaries of arthouse cinema, producing content that resonates both artistically and politically.