MAMI announces 2nd edition of Filmed on iPhone category, industry veterans to mentor upcoming filmmakers

The Mumbai Academy of Moving Images (MAMI) Mumbai Film Festival is bringing back its innovative “MAMI Select – Filmed on iPhone” initiative for a second edition. This trailblazing programme is designed to empower emerging filmmakers from across India, offering them state-of-the-art tools and a platform to showcase their creativity. Selected filmmakers will receive an iPhone 16 Pro Max to shoot their films, a MacBook Pro for editing, and a generous grant to fund their projects.

This year’s edition is particularly noteworthy for its focus on inclusivity. MAMI has expanded the call for applications nationwide, aiming to discover fresh voices from every corner of India. The initiative is also championing regional cinema by requiring films to be created in one of four languages—Hindi, Malayalam, Marathi, and Tamil—ensuring that diverse stories and cultures take centre stage.

More from Tech

How ChatGPT is becoming everyone’s BFF and why that’s dangerous America ready for self-driving cars, but it has a legal problem

Nationwide Hunt for Fresh Voices

MAMI’s decision to open applications across the country reflects its commitment to unearthing talent from all regions and backgrounds. Aspiring filmmakers are invited to submit their entries for a chance to produce a short film between 20 and 40 minutes long. This structure ensures the spotlight is shared among India’s myriad cultures and linguistic traditions.

Festival Director Shivendra Singh Dungarpur emphasised the programme’s inclusive vision, saying, “For the first time, we have opened the call for applications across the country to make films in four regional languages.” The initiative not only provides a platform for emerging artists but also highlights the storytelling potential of modern technology, with the iPhone 16 Pro Max serving as the primary tool for filming.

Guided by Industry Titans

The selected filmmakers won’t embark on this journey alone—they’ll be mentored by an illustrious panel of industry veterans. Actor and director Konkona Sen Sharma, celebrated Malayalam filmmaker Lijo Jose Pellissery, acclaimed director-producer Vikramaditya Motwane, and renowned Tamil filmmaker Vetri Maaran will work closely with the participants. These mentors will offer guidance throughout the production process, from story development to post-production, helping to refine narratives and push the boundaries of creative expression.

Motwane, returning as a mentor, shared his enthusiasm: “I was completely blown away by the quality of storytelling and technical finesse last year. I cannot wait to see what magic this year’s filmmakers create.” Pellissery lauded the initiative for its focus on regional talent, describing it as “an excellent platform to identify and support filmmakers from different parts of India.”

Impact Shorts

More Shorts

America ready for self-driving cars, but it has a legal problem

Alibaba, Baidu begin using own AI chips as China shifts away from US tech amid Nvidia row

Vetri Maaran, mentoring the Tamil-language film, said he was proud to be part of a programme that promotes diverse voices and offers a stage for emerging talent. Konkona Sen Sharma expressed her excitement about working with young filmmakers, praising MAMI for fostering independent cinema.

A Cinematic Showcase for All

The short films created through the programme will premiere at a special screening event before being made available on MAMI’s YouTube channel, ensuring they reach a wide audience. This accessibility aligns with MAMI’s mission to champion new voices in Indian cinema and bring fresh stories to the forefront.

Applications are open until 19 January on the festival’s official website, inviting young filmmakers to seize this unique opportunity. With cutting-edge technology, expert mentorship, and a platform to showcase their work, the second edition of “MAMI Select – Filmed on iPhone” is set to redefine the possibilities of independent filmmaking in India.