L’Alternativa’s WIP Screenings: A Collaborative Playground for Cinema’s Future
At L’Alternativa, Work In Progress screenings provided a stage for emerging creators to share unfinished films, sparking discussions on authenticity, resourcefulness, and global storytelling.
On November 21, the L’Alternativa Independent Film Festival hosted one of the most inspiring activities in its program: the Work In Progress (WIP) Screenings. At 12:30 pm, filmmakers, producers, and cinema enthusiasts gathered to explore the projects in development from a new generation of filmmakers, creating a unique space for exchange within the cinematic landscape.
The event, focused on films still in the post-production phase, offered attendees the chance to witness captivating stories that blend narrative depth with creative risk. Among the titles showcased were El diablo también lo llama corazón (The Devil Also Calls It Heart), a poetic exploration of dark emotions; El vol de la Cigonya (The Flight of the Stork), an intimate tale about roots and migration; Leleka, which captures resilience in the midst of conflict; and Los Materiales Sensibles (The Sensitive Materials), an experimental journey reflecting on fragility and memory. Each excerpt presented reflected unique styles and approaches, hinting at the immense potential of these productions.
In the discussions following the screenings, the directors not only shared details about their projects but also addressed the challenges of bringing their ideas to life in an independent context. Topics ranged from the struggle to maintain narrative authenticity under commercial pressures, to the ingenuity required to manage tight budgets, and the possibilities of reaching international audiences. The impact of interdisciplinary collaboration stood out, with musicians, visual artists, and other creators enriching the vision of each film, as was evident in the proposals presented.
Tras las proyecciones, creadores y asistentes aprovecharon un ambiente distendido para intercambiar ideas y ofrecer retroalimentación, mientras disfrutaban de un vermut. Fotografía de Gisela Serra Chico (TMN).
Participating in this activity not only allowed me to discover new ways of making cinema but also led me to reflect on the role of process as an essential part of the final result. Some of the most valuable lessons I learned include: listening to external critiques and viewpoints is not just useful for improving a specific project; it’s a way to grow as a creator. Sharing your work in progress requires courage but fosters authentic connections that can transform your perspective. Budget or logistical challenges should not be seen as insurmountable barriers but as stimuli for finding creative solutions. Finally, understanding how your stories resonate with others better prepares you to communicate what you want to express.
In my opinion, L’Alternativa’s WIP Screenings are more than just a platform to showcase films in progress—they are a living school of collective learning, where passion for art and collaboration take center stage. This space reaffirms that independent cinema has a bright future, supported by courageous creators committed to their vision.
