Cinelab

Cinelab is a two-weeklong summer filmmaking program for aspiring artists aged 14–19 presented by The Cinematheque in partnership with the SFU School for the Contemporary Arts.

Young artists are empowered to create unique short films from start to finish with the support of experienced professionals. In small crews, participants are guided through the complete filmmaking process from scripting to directing, from lighting and editing, to bring their creative visions to life. Completed works debut at a special red carpet film premiere at The Cinematheque. 

Watch Cinelab films created in past programs on our Vimeo channel.

We provide an inclusive, welcoming, and creative space with professional equipment, facilitated by experienced artists. Established professionals from the Vancouver creative scene deliver master classes throughout the program. 

Summer 2025 program dates

Program 1: July 7–18
Program 2: July 21–August 1
Note: Registration is capped at 24 students per program (48 total).

Daily schedule: Monday to Friday, 9:00 am–4:00 pm

Location: SFU School for the Contemporary Arts
149 West Hastings Street, Vancouver

Cost: $700
The Cinematheque is a not-for-profit organization and the program fee is subsidized by support from our sponsors. Our sponsors generously donate limited bursaries for participants who meet their requirements and/​or are in need of financial assistance. If you would like to apply for a bursary, please email us at cinelab@​thecinematheque.​ca. Bursary applications for Cinelab 2024 are due June 14, and applicants will be notified of the status of their application by June 21.

Accepted applicants will receive an email from cinelab@​thecinematheque.​ca with instructions for payment or (if applicable) bursary application.


Registration for Cinelab 2025 opens April 1

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Schedule

2024 schedule


Masterclass speakers

Speakers for Cinelab 2025 will be announced soon.

Past masterclass speakers include: