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Stockfish is open for applications

Stockfish Opens Applications for Script Workshop, New Nordic Works in Progress, and Sprettfisk

The Stockfish Film & Industry Festival has now opened applications for three key Industry Days programs for 2026: the script workshop The Whale, New Nordic Works in Progress, and Shortfish – a competition for Icelandic short films, music videos, and experimental works.

Stockfish Film Festival 2026 will take place March 19–29 at Bíó Paradís in Reykjavík, with Ireland as the country in focus. The festival’s theme will be:

“A heritage of legends – myths and hidden worlds”

There will be an increased emphasis on projects by emerging Nordic talent and debut films by international directors who have received awards at major film festivals this year.

The festival has appointed a new programming council composed of international directors and critics who advise the festival on films that have gained attention on the festival circuit this year.

The Stockfish Programming Council consists of directors Rúnar Rúnarsson, Yrsa Roca Fannberg, Valdimar Jóhannsson, Hilke Rönnfield, Ragnar Bragason, and Nanna Frank Rasmussen, chair of the Danish Critics’ Association.

Inclusion and accessibility remain a strong focus of the program, and the festival has now adopted and adapted the accessibility policy of the Reykjavík Arts Festival, which can be read on the festival’s website here: https://stockfishfestival.is/en/inclusion-policy

The festival is run by professional associations within the Icelandic film industry and places emphasis on serving the filmmaking community, creating a platform for grassroots filmmakers, and opening up a dialogue with the public about cinema.

We encourage screenwriters, directors, and producers at all stages of their careers to apply and take part in this creative and international filmmaking dialogue.

Further information about the application process and the festival’s Industry Days can be found at www.stockfishfestival.is

Below is more information on the deadlines open to international filmmakers.

More information on Shortfish can be found here: https://stockfishfestival.is/en/shortfish-2026

THE WHALE – Script Workshop at Stockfish 2026

THE WHALE is a premier screenwriting lab entering its third year, operating across Iceland, Paris, and the UK. The lab brings together emerging and mid-career screenwriters whose stories push boundaries and amplify voices from the margins.

This three-day immersive program is designed for writers whose work challenges dominant narratives—those drawing from underrepresented identities, experiences, and perspectives. Hosted in Reykjavík, Iceland, with a concluding industry pitch session in Paris, France (or online), the lab offers a rare cross-European creative environment for collaboration and experimentation.

Fees & Practical Details

Participation Fee: $710
Includes 3 days in Iceland, 1 pitching day, and 12 months of online group sessions.
Travel & Accommodation: Not included, but discounted hotel options will be provided.

Dates

22–25 March 2026
Reykjavík, Iceland — during the Stockfish Film Festival
+ Optional Pitch Day in Paris (date TBC) or on-line
+ 1 Year: Online participation workshop will be available.

Application deadline: February 1, 2026
More information about the workshop here: https://stockfishfestival.is/en/writerslab/

New Nordic Works in Progress

Stockfish has opened applications for New Nordic Works in Progress, which provides emerging Nordic filmmakers a platform to present their first projects in development.

Six projects will be selected from across the Nordic countries. Participants receive mentoring and pitch training before presenting their projects publicly at an event held at the Nordic House on March 28, 2026, as part of Stockfish Industry Days.

The aim of the program is to enhance the visibility of new creators, connect them with producers and key industry stakeholders, and support Nordic co-production, promotion, and long-term collaboration.

Application deadline: 15th of January 2026