Through its Next Step programme, La Semaine de la Critique guides the short-film directors who were selected for the competition towards their first feature film. Next Step is a week-long workshop held in France in December. During the workshop, the filmmakers have the opportunity to discuss their projects with international experts and tutors so that they may be advised on their scripts, to understand the reality of the industry and define the right development strategy. Furthermore, the workshop organises meetings with music composers to promote the directors’ attention towards music scoring. This year, three composers will share their experience and expertise during one-to-one consultations with each director, so as to guide them optimally in their artistic choices. In partnership with the Moulin d’Andé-Céci, Next Step is supported by the CNC and the SACEM.
Hildegarde endows the Next Step Prize with €2500 which will be given to one of the seven participating directors for his feature film project and will be invited at Cannes. This endowment follows the Hildegarde and La Semaine de la Critique's ambition to enhance new independent feature films.
In 2022, the directors of Next Step 9th Session are: