About the program

The Cine Qua Non Retreat is a writing retreat specifically intended for Cine Qua Non Lab alums. The program aims to connect alums across Cine Qua Non Lab generations and give them the opportunity to work intensively on the development of their feature-length narrative scripts in Mexico in an environment structured to foster professional collaboration.

The retreat gives alums the opportunity to experience —or return to— Cine Qua Non Lab facilities in Mexico and develop their scripts in a protected writing atmosphere, with brainstorming support from international peers across Cine Qua Non Lab generations.

Language

All brainstorming sessions will be conducted in English. All application materials need to be in English.

Dates and location

The Cine Qua Non Retreat is held in Tzintzuntzan, a small town in the state of Michoacán, Mexico, approximately 50 km from the city of Morelia. The writing and living spaces are tucked amidst the beauty of the Sierra Madre mountains, overlooking Lake Pátzcuaro, a quiet natural retreat.

The retreat has a duration of 10 days. The 2026 edition will take place:

• From Thursday, January 15^th, through Monday, January 26^th, 2026 (Group 1)
• From Thursday, February 26^th, through Monday, March 9^th, 2026 (Group 2)

A minimum of 5 participants is required to run each group.

Eligibility

• Only Cine Qua Non Lab alums (of any program) are eligible to apply for the retreat.

• Only narrative feature script projects are eligible (at any stage of development).

• Co-written projects are eligible. Up to two writers per project will be accepted to the retreat. Applicants may apply with a co-writer who is not a Cine Qua Non Lab alum.

Application deadline

The call for applicants is closed.

Participation fee

There is no application fee.

Cine Qua Non Lab covers with resources of the organization and its members the bulk of the cost of participation in the Cine Qua Non Retreat, so that participants pay only a 2,000 USD fee for attending the retreat. This fee is required upon acceptance. In case of cancellation more than 15 days prior to the starting date of the retreat, there is a 50 % refund of the participation fee. There is no refund in case of cancellation less than 15 days prior to the starting date.

In case of co-writing teams, the co-writer pays a 1,000 USD fee for attending the retreat.

Accommodations and meals will be provided throughout the retreat. Participants are responsible for their own travel expenses. Participants must submit proof of medical insurance covering the whole period of their stay.

Selection process

All applications will be read and evaluated by a jury panel comprised of film professionals. Applicants short-listed for consideration in the final round of evaluations may be interviewed by videoconference.

For further information, please address inquiries to admissions@cqnl.org.