International recognition for Solent lecturers at Cannes Film Festival

BA (Hons) Film Production lecturers gain international recognition at the Cannes Film Festival. 

Lecturers from BA (Hons) Film Production at Southampton Solent University have gained international recognition with their short film, Madrugada, selected for one of the world’s most prestigious film festivals. 

The film has been chosen for Quinzaine des Cinéastes (Directors’ Fortnight) at the Cannes Film Festival, renowned for showcasing innovative filmmaking talent from around the world. 

The production highlights the expertise of Solent academics, and reflects the University’s practice-led approach to learning and teaching.  

Director Sebastian Lojo wrote and produced the film, collaborating with fellow lecturer and co-writer Remi Itani, who served as producer and editor.  

On his film's selection, Sebastian says:  

“Having  Madrugada premiere at Quinzaine des Cinéastes at Cannes is deeply meaningful for both of us. Remi Itani and I developed the film through a collaborative process that came from spending time with people and places, allowing the form of the film to emerge through that experience.  

“As lecturers within the Film Production degree, it is especially rewarding to see a work grounded in practice-based research and long-term creative development resonate at this level.  

“For us, filmmaking and teaching constantly inform one another. The classroom becomes a space to question process and ethics, while filmmaking becomes a way of testing and deepening those questions through practice. The support of the Film Production degree’s course leader, Marco Granese, has been pivotal in being able to achieve this great honour.” 

The  film’s selection highlights the industry experience and creative talent of the lecturers on Solent’s film courses, reflecting the University’s commitment to practice-led learning.  

Course Leader for Film Production, Marco Granese, says the success reflects the professional knowledge and experience Sebastian and Remi bring to students at the University. 

“Having worked closely with both Sebastian and Remi here at Solent, not only as colleagues and lecturers, but also, in Sebastian’s case, on professional film sets, I am incredibly proud of this achievement. They both have a great track record of success in the industry worldwide, and this is only their latest success.  

“Sebastian and Remi are outstanding lecturers whose passion, professionalism, and commitment to both filmmaking and teaching have a hugely positive impact on our students. They bring real industry experience into the classroom and help create a learning environment that is ambitious, creative, and grounded in professional practice.” 

Outcomes like this demonstrate the Universities focus on real-world application, supported by teaching from experienced industry professionals.  

This includes an emphasis on live projects, industry collaboration, and portfolio-based learning, ensuring students graduate with both practical experience and academic knowledge. 

Madrugada will screen in Cannes on 21 and 22 May as part of the Directors’ Fortnight programme.

You can find out more about the film and television courses at Solent on our website.