Logo of Flame Firstcut

Deadline
10 Jan 2025


Published: 08 Jan 2025
 Does NOT have submission fees
Short films


Banner Flame Firstcut

Flame Firstcut

Pune, India


Welcome to FirstCut, one of India’s premier international student film festivals, organized by FLAME University, Pune.

FirstCut provides a dynamic platform for young filmmakers across the globe, encouraging them to explore film as a medium of growth and change.

In 2025, FirstCut Take 11 received 565+ submissions from students representing 55+ countries.

At the final event, shortlisted films will be screened for a live audience and evaluated by a distinguished jury from the Indian film industry. The screenings will be followed by engaging panel discussions and talks with renowned film personalities.

We believe creative freedom is essential, which is why participants have complete freedom in choosing their themes and styles.

In addition to categories in fiction, animation, and non-fiction, FirstCut offers the unique "Nano" film category, challenging students to create super short films.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of International University Film Festival Lanterna

Deadline
10 Jan 2025


Published: 08 Jan 2025
 Does NOT have submission fees
Short films


Banner Festival Internacional de Cine Universitaria Lanterna

International University Film Festival Lanterna

Ciudad de México, Mexico


To students, university filmmakers, and young creators around the world:

It is with great excitement that we invite you to participate in the fifteenth edition of the LANTERNA International University Film Festival, which will take place on April 2026, at Universidad Anáhuac México, Campus Norte.

This is not just another year. We are celebrating fifteen years of giving voice to bold, powerful, and deeply human stories. Fifteen years of discovering new talent, of seeing the world through the lens of those who dare to express what they feel, live, and dream.

That’s why, for this special edition, we open our call to all university students who want to share their vision through cinema. You may submit short films of any genre, produced between 2024 and 2026, directed or created during your time as a student.

Our goal is to gather the best of contemporary university cinema—films that challenge, that move, that dare to experiment or embrace simplicity with honesty. Cinema made with passion, with limited resources but unlimited creativity. The kind of cinema that connects.

Participation is free and open to students from anywhere in the world. In the coming days, we’ll be publishing the full guidelines, categories, and submission forms on our official website and social media.

We would love to see your story be part of this edition that celebrates the past, present, and future of student filmmaking. And we can’t wait to share this journey with thousands of people who, like you, believe cinema can transform.

With admiration and hope,
Carlotta de Pompeis
Director
LANTERNA International University Film Festival


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of XXIII Punta del Este Jewish Film Festival (Uruguay)

Deadline
09 Jan 2025


Published: 07 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner 23º Punta Del Este Jewish Film Festival  (uruguay)

XXIII Punta del Este Jewish Film Festival (Uruguay)

Punta del Este, Uruguay


This international meeting, already a classic in Punta del Este, has some peculiarities that distinguish it from other Jewish Film Festivals in the world, due to the fact that it takes place in such a special seaside resort as Punta del Este, a meeting point where communities from different countries gather annually in Uruguay.

The Punta del Este Jewish Film Festival (Festival Internacional de Cine Judío de Uruguay, FICJU®) was born in 2003, with the purpose of generating a cultural, educational, didactic and illustrative space, oriented to promote the knowledge of the history of the Jewish people and its diverse cultures and traditions, thus seeking to strengthen our identity and integration through art.

Fiction films and documentaries with different perspectives of the Jewish theme are shown, spaces are organized for the analysis and reflection of the history, customs and cultures of our people around the world, and the memory of the Shoa (Holocaust) is constantly maintained.

We discover new aspects of our heritage and identity, as well as learn about the current conditions of the different Jewish communities around the world, fostering the integration of all Jewish people through the knowledge of our shared essence.

Thanks to the above, the Punta del Este Jewish Film Festival becomes a focus of tourist attraction, with an average of 2,500 attendees.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental  Music Video



 
Logo of Hollywood Storytellers Film Festival

Deadline
09 Jan 2025


Published: 07 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner Hollywood Storytellers Film Festival

Hollywood Storytellers Film Festival

Los Angeles, United States


Hollywood Storytellers is an International Film Festival and Script Competition that aims to celebrate, support, and reward exceptional voices in cinematic storytelling. Our inclusive platform allows diverse filmmakers and writers in multiple genres and mediums to showcase their unique talents and innovative perspectives worldwide.

Our film festival is an annual event. Each year, a diverse slate of extraordinary official selections are invited to screen their projects in person at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres located in the heart of the entertainment industry on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA.

With a focus on promoting underrepresented voices, we strive to cultivate a compassionate community that encourages creative collaboration in our highly competitive industry, no matter age, race, sexual orientation, gender identity, ability, or creed.

Call for entries are currently open and will close in January 2025. Notifications will be sent in February 2025, with ticket and screening information for the festival event in March 2025.

Entries to our 2024 script competition season are currently closed and will reopen in January 2025. However, we invite you to visit our website and read last season's reviews!

WHO WE ARE:

The Hollywood Storytellers Film Festival is an all-inclusive, international media contest focused on giving remarkable filmmakers from all backgrounds the recognition they deserve.

​Our festival and awards focus on bringing value to all filmmakers, making it our mission to assist in necessary areas to reward their current projects, make their next ones a reality, and help move them closer to their careers goals.

​Our team believes in the power of perspective. It is essential in enriching the culture of our industry and bringing a more inclusive experience to mainstream genres and mediums. Filmmakers of color, female-identifying filmmakers, LGBTQ+ filmmakers, disabled filmmakers, filmmakers over the age of 50, and other relevant voices that have been historically underrepresented will be heard and encouraged to apply.

​​We look forward to supporting our community of talented, independent filmmakers.

WHY SUBMIT:

The Hollywood Storytellers Film Festival is judged by a diverse team of active industry professionals including award-winning filmmakers, producers, directors, actors, film and television writers, casting director associates, music recording artists, development executives, and investors. Members of our esteemed jury include executive producers previously and presently associated with: NBC UNIVERSAL, PEACOCK TV, SONY, VILLAGE ROADSHOW PICTURES, DISNEY, TOUCHSTONE FILMS, WARNER BROS. STUDIOS, and more.

​Our festival aims to attract the top independent filmmakers from around the world. We offer a high-quality, highly anticipated event experience with welcoming communication and hospitality from submission entry to the fest's end. If we accept your project into our festival, you will enjoy (3) complimentary all-day event badges, a carefully curated screening of outstanding official selections, awards consideration, and sponsored grand prizes for our winners.

We are seeking cinematic projects in all live-action and animated genres. Full-Length Features, Shorts, TV Pilots (Short-form, Half-Hour, One-Hour), Documentaries, Music Videos, Experimental Videos, and Proof-of-Concept Movie Trailers.

​​Unique & diverse voices are encouraged.

​We do not encourage submissions that involve excessive harm or abuse to animals.

​BENEFITS OF SUBMITTING:

-Your project screened at the iconic TCL Chinese Theatres on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA.

-You want to be part of an inclusive community that champions independent filmmakers and writers on a supportive platform.

-Your project is seen and evaluated by a diverse team of active industry professionals that cultivate a competitive program.

-Affordable submission prices with discounts and economic hardship considerations.

-Official Laurels.

-Award Certificates.

-Sponsored prize packages and opportunities that will further your current and future filmmaking goals.

-Your project showcased on social and sent exclusively to our network of industry contacts.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental  Music Video



 
Logo of Sombra-  15th Murcia European Fantastic Film Festival

Deadline
08 Jan 2025


Published: 06 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner Sombra - XV Festival De Cine Fantástico Europeo

Sombra- 15th Murcia European Fantastic Film Festival

Murcia, Spain


The European Fantastic Film Festival SOMBRA is a project that aims to spread and serve as a reference to fantasy films produced in Europe, as well as support European, national and regional production of gender.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of Paris Art and Movie Awards

Deadline
08 Jan 2025


Published: 06 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner Paris Art and Movie Awards

Paris Art and Movie Awards

PARIS, France


A STEP TOWARD THE OSCARS
for FOX, NBC, CBS and Authority Magazine.

REVIEWS
"My favorite festival" Alex Proyas (I Robot, The Crow, Dark City)

"Other nominees included already famous people! It really was an honor to be nominated alongside such great nominees" Lisa Hurel.

“I truly cannot say enough good things about the Paris Art and Movie Awards. My experience with this event was easily the best and rewarding” - Ev Duran.

"One of the most organized and professionally run festivals I've been to! The official selections were of a high standard and the networking was incredible" - Jami Ramberan.

"One of the best festival experiences I've had. Magnifique!" Warren Paul Glover.

"The Fisherman's Diary" won twice at the PAMA in 2020, and is now selected to the 2021 , to represent its country.

"Game Changer" won an, his director Aviv Mano then worked on Disney’s COCO and TOY STORY 4 (2018).

"The Wishgranter" won an, an EMMY AWARD, and a (2016).

"Legacy of Lies" is distributed by Lionsgate (2020).

"Sgt Stubby", an unlikely hero, got a distribution deal at (2018).

"Curpigeon" got selected to, won the AMAZON VIDEO DIRECT Film Festival Stars (2016).

"Whisper" screened at FILMQUEST (2015).

"None of That" was STAFF PICK by (2015).
through the years included:

- John Lunn, 2 times Prime Time Emmy Award Winner, composer of "Downton Abbey"
- Monica Cruz, "Un Paso Adelante"
- Olivia Sandusky, journalist, NBC
- Mark Dacascos, actor, "John Wick III"
- Samuel Arnold, actor, "Emily in Paris"
- Patrick Fabian, actor, Emmy Award Nominee “Better Caul Saul"
- Claire Kopsky, Emmy Award-winning Journalist, CBS
- Jamie Campbell, producer, "Sex Education"
- Cindy Mollo, Eddie Award Winner, 4 time Emmy nominee, editor for "Ozark"
- Rena Owen, actress, "Star Wars Ep II" & "ep. III"
- Fola Evans-Akingbola, actress, "The Night Agent", "Siren", "Game of Thrones'
- Michelle Tesoro, SXSW winner, Eddie Award Winner, editor, "The Queen’s Gambit"
- Paz de la Huerta, actress, Boardwalk Empire
- Brent Huff, director & actor "The Rookie", 'The Rookie Feds", 'The West Wing"
- Max Markson -rep. A. Schwarzenegger, Mel Gibson, JCVD...
- Cole Sibus, actor "Stumptown', Olympic Gold Medal Athlete
- Mina Sundwall, actress, Netflix’s “Lost in Space”, DC’s “Legends of Tomorrow”

Our line up included through the years: Kirsten Dunst, Sam Rockwell, Vladimir Cosma, Kristanna Loken, Mark Dacascos, Caterina Murino, Andrew J. West, Hugo Becker, Jansen Panettiere, Leslie Bibb, Melanie et Alain Doutey, Macarena Gomez, French Prime Minister Edith Cresson, French Minister Frederic Lefebvre, Emma Bell...


We celebrate filmmakers and we focus on the humans making the movies : each director/attendee gets to talk about his movie.

You meet new audience, screen and show your latest work, connect with fellow professionals, share your passion with screenings and special events all over the city, including red carpets, movie premieres, parties, filmmaker’s networking, numerous Q&A's, international spotlights, industry talks and masterclasses, art performances and exhibitions, live music…


AN INDEPENDENT MOVIE FESTIVAL WITH
- Awards
- Photocall
- Artistic Recognition
- Networking
- award ceremony


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental  Music Video



 
Logo of Getafe en Corto. International Shortfilm Festival

Deadline
08 Jan 2025


Published: 06 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films


Banner Getafe En Corto. International Shortfilm Festival

Getafe en Corto. International Shortfilm Festival

Getafe, Spain


Getafe en Corto is a short film festival organized by Onda Vecinal Getafe, in collaboration with the Getafe City Council.

It will be held from February 23 to 27, 2027, at 7:30 p.m., at Espacio Mercado de Getafe, Plaza de la Constitución, 5, 28901 Getafe, Madrid.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction



 
Logo of Praha Film Festival

Deadline
08 Jan 2025


Published: 06 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner Praha Film Festival

Praha Film Festival

Prague, Czech Republic


GREETINGS AND WELCOME TO PRAGUE FILM FESTIVAL 2025!

Prague Film Festival is uniq professional film festival with live screening, industry programs, various world, European and Czech premieres in Prague, Czech Republic.

As one of the few film festivals in Prague, it offers screenings of feature films and documentaries from the Official Selection. The festival will be held for 4 days, from April 23-26, 2025 in the Kino Pilotu Prague. The INDUSTRY PROGRAM will also include world-famous names in cinematography that won the Palm d'Or. We will inform you more about the program soon. It is also possible to obtain ACCREDATION. Accreditations for the festival will open on December 1, 2024. The festival also includes special screenings of the best films from previous years.

The main prize is entitled: A GOLDEN SUBWAY. The award has this name because Prague can be proud of the fact that you can find unique Prague tilles in the subway. You won't find this type of tiles in any other subway in the world. Only at our festival. The festival will award financial rewards in the amount of 75.000 CZK (3.000 EUR) and partner prizes in the amount of 100.000 CZK (4.000 EUR) for the winning films and screenplays.

PFF mission is to provide a forum to advance public interest in indie film; to support every year a new generation of filmmakers with a unique vision; to draw worldwide attention to Prague as a center for cinema; and to promote artistic excellence and the creative freedom of artists without censure. Check out the atmosphere at the film festival on our YouTube channel and you can watch the video from the previous year here.

MEET OUR GREAT JURY
Gunnur Martinsdóttir Schlüter
Born in 1988 in Island, she directed "Fár" and won the Special Mention at the Festival de Cannes 2023.

Ali Asgari
Prominent figure in Iranian cinema, with over 200 awards to his name. His short films "More Than Two Hours" (2013) and "The Silence" (2016) were both nominated for the Palm d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Focusing on the precarious lives of individuals on the margins of Iranian society, his films have garnered international acclaim. His debut feature, "Disappearance," was developed at the Cinéfondation Residency of the Cannes Film Festival and premiered at the Venice IFF in 2017. His second feature film, "Until Tomorrow," premiered at the Berlinale in 2022. Additionally, Asgari is a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

During its history, the festival screened:
MORE THAN 200 FILMS,
80 CZECH PREMIERES,
20 INTERNATIONAL PREMIERES
and 10 WORLD PREMIERES

Previous winners of our festival are directors such as Morad Mostafa ("HENET WARD", premiered: Clermont Int Film Festival), Molly Manning Walker ("GOOD THANKS, YOU?", premiered: Semaine de la Critique – Cannes), Zachary Woods (“DAVID”, premiered: Festival de Cannes), Leila Basma ("Sea Salt", premiered: 80th Venice International Film Festival), Simone Massi ("A guerra finita", premiered: 80th Venice International Film Festival). The films that were at our festival are part of VOD platforms such as NETFLIX, MUBI or Amazon Prime.

The presenter of the festival is Natalie Golovchenko, a graduate of JAMU, who is mainly known from Czech TV series. The festival also includes a Networking Party and Q&A for filmmakers who win the prize. Just like last year, we welcomed a large number of Czech filmmakers and film enthusiasts, we believe that it will be the same this year as well.

As one of the few festivals in Europe, we can be proud that we have screened films from every continent of the world. We screened more than 100 films from 23 countries. In some seasons, the festival also organizes its screenings outside the festival days - we held a special screening: the Golden Selection of Cannes films, or a screening of Ukrainian short films.

Every year, the festival tries to recognize new talents and open the doors of cinema to them.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Other  Experimental  Music Video



 
Logo of ANIMED Mediterranean Animation Film Festival

Deadline
07 Jan 2025


Published: 05 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner ANIMED Mediterranean Animation Film Festival

ANIMED Mediterranean Animation Film Festival

Alicante, Spain


Welcome to the ANIMED Mediterranean Animation Film Festival If you are an animation filmmaker, this festival is the perfect opportunity to showcase your work to the world and to connect with other industry professionals.

Our festival is looking for animated films from around the world to include in our programming.

Whether you are an emerging artist or an established director, we want to see your work and give it a chance to be seen by an international audience.

As part of our festival, we offer a unique platform for filmmakers to showcase their work and receive valuable feedback and comments from industry experts and other animation filmmakers.

We also offer workshops and talks to help you improve your skills and explore new techniques and technologies.

At ANIMED Mediterranean Animation Film Festival, our mission is to celebrate and promote the art of animation. We are committed to discovering and highlighting innovative and exciting animated films that showcase the creativity and skill of filmmakers from around the world.

So if you are a creator of animated films and are interested in participating in our festival, sign up! We're excited to see your work and hope you'll join us at the ANIMED Mediterranean Animation Film Festival - don't miss out!


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Animation



 
Logo of Busan International Short Film Festival

Deadline
06 Jan 2025


Published: 04 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films

Promotional card of Busan International Short Film Festival

Banner 부산국제단편영화제 - Busan International Short Film Festival

Busan International Short Film Festival

Busan, South Korea


Launched in 1980, our festival, the first of its category in South Korea, has grown and evolved from the Korean Short Film Festival, to become the Busan Asian Short Film Festival in 2000 and eventually the Busan International Short Film Festival in 2010 (www.bisff.org).

Taking place late April at the Busan Cinema Center, BISFF delivers a dozen awards in three competitive sections (International Competition, Korean Competition and Operation Kino) while also presenting several curated, non-competitive sections including: Guest Country, Korean Shorts, Asian Shorts, Prism, 3D Cinema, etc.

BISFF is a member of the Short Film Conference (http://shortfilmconference.com/) and of the NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asia Pacific Cinema https://netpacasia.org). In 2018, it became South Korea’s first Oscar®-qualifying festival.


OSCAR!

International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Experimental



 
Logo of CINEfoot - International Football Film Festival

Deadline
06 Jan 2025


Published: 04 Jan 2025
 Does NOT have submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner CINEfoot - International Football Film Festival

CINEfoot - International Football Film Festival

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil


CINEfoot - International Football Film Festival is the first film festival in Brazil and Latin America with unique curatorial and conceptual approaches about football. The event aims the promotion, diffusion, reflection and appreciation of football films from all over the world.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of Moscow Indie Film Festival

Deadline
06 Jan 2025


Published: 04 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner Moscow Indie Film Festival

Moscow Indie Film Festival

Moscow, Russia


Moscow Indie Film Festival is easily one of the most filmmaker friendly independent film festivals screenings in a major entertainment city anywhere in the world. We know how painstakingly difficult it is to make a movie.

Moscow Indie Film Festival is about helping independent filmmakers gain the credibility and promotion they justly deserve. We are here to show your talent to the world.

The festival aims to bring to Moscow several films from all around the world, but very few times (sometimes never) screened in our great city.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of ARACNEA FILM AND BOOK FESTIVAL

Deadline
06 Jan 2025


Published: 04 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films


Banner Aracnea Film And Book Festival

ARACNEA FILM AND BOOK FESTIVAL

CASTELLANETA, Italy


ARACNEA FILM AND BOOK FESTIVAL is organized by the Cultural Association ARACNEA - APS CULTURAL AND ARTISTIC CENTER, will be held in Castellaneta (Ta), for the length of 3 days, on in the second week of April.

It is an independent festival, entirely dedicated to cinematographies and cultures from all over the world.

The organization of events subsequent to the date of the Festival is foreseen, involving schools and experts in the local sector, all linked by the common thread of audio-visual training for the youngest and by the concrete link with the territory.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of Fantastic film festival in Bourg-en-Bresse

Deadline
05 Jan 2025


Published: 03 Jan 2025
 Does NOT have submission fees
Short films


Banner Festival du film fantastique de Bourg-en-Bresse

Fantastic film festival in Bourg-en-Bresse

Bourg-en-Bresse, France


13th edition of the fantastic film festival of Bourg-en-Bresse.

SHort film competitions (french languages, international, middle school) and also screening of features films.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror



 
Logo of Al Este International Film Festival

Deadline
05 Jan 2025


Published: 03 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films

Promotional card of Al Este International Film Festival

Banner Festival Internacional de Cine Al Este

Al Este International Film Festival

Lima, Peru


Al Este is a festival coming out from the french festival A l'Est du Nouveau. Present in Peru since 2008, the mission of the festival is to promote film culture of the other Europe, that relegated to independent circuits, owning however, an invaluable wealth and tradition. Thus, Al Este seeks to spread the filmography of Europe, Latin America and Asia.


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of European Short Film Festival of Bordeaux

Deadline
05 Jan 2025


Published: 03 Jan 2025
 Does NOT have submission fees
Short films

Promotional card of European Short Film Festival of Bordeaux

Banner Festival Européen du Court Métrage de Bordeaux

European Short Film Festival of Bordeaux

Talence, France


DATE AND LOCATION

The 29th edition of the European Short Film Festival of Bordeaux will take place from March 26th to 27th 2026. The projection nights will take place at the UGC Ciné-Cité cinema in Bordeaux.

GOALS

The European Short Film Festival of Bordeaux aims to promote the short film format to the Région Aquitaine's audience. It facilitates the access to cinema for a large public, from all ages. It also supports the discovery of talented directors coming from all over Europe.,It’s a way for the filmmakers to be appreciated by a jury, no matter if they are mere enthusiasts or professionals.


HIGHLIGHTED!

International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental



 
Logo of 16th DELHI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2027

Deadline
05 Jan 2025


Published: 03 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films
Feature films


Banner 16th DELHI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2027

16th DELHI INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2027

New Delhi, India


15th Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF) 2026: Celebrating 15 Years of Cinematic Excellence, Global Diplomacy, and Cultural Confluence
Introduction & The 15-Year Legacy

The Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF) proudly marks its 15th milestone edition in 2026, celebrating a glorious decade and a half of bringing world cinema to the heart of India's capital. Over the past 15 years, DIFF has evolved into one of Asia's most prestigious cultural events. It serves as a vital bridge between India's vast regional film industries and global filmmakers.
Crucially, DIFF is organized as an official event featuring films exempted by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India. This prestigious regulatory backing ensures that groundbreaking international narratives, artistic expressions, and diverse cultural voices are screened seamlessly without conventional censorship barriers, maintaining the highest standards of artistic freedom.

Festival Overview & Vision (15th Edition)
The 15th edition of DIFF was organized as a grand five-day cinematic gala from May 4 to May 8, 2026, in New Delhi. The festival was hosted in prestigious collaboration with the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Ministry of Culture, Government of India.
The mega event culminated in a vibrant closing ceremony that stood as a testament to art, global diplomacy, and the power of narrative. This year, the festival achieved monumental scale by showcasing 178 films representing over 51 countries, making it a true global melting pot of storytelling.

Core Curations, Themes, and Special Focus
DIFF 2026 curated its massive lineup across distinct, highly competitive categories:
• Indian Showcase & World Cinema: Highlighting commercial and parallel masterpieces.
• Arab Cinema & NRI Cinema: Documenting the diaspora experience and Middle Eastern narratives.
• Cinema Across the Border: Breaking geopolitical barriers through shared human experiences.
• Special Regional & Geopolitical Focus: This year, the festival placed a definitive spotlight on Arab Cinema and the rich, untapped cinematic heritage of India's Northeastern region.
• Social & Humanitarian Core Themes: The definitive soul of the 15th edition was its curated screening of powerful films deeply centered on Women’s Empowerment and critical Social Issues concerning Children.

A Proven Track Record of Global Accolades
DIFF holds an unparalleled reputation for discovering cinematic masterpieces before they hit the global mainstream:
• National Award Success: 8 films screened and awarded at DIFF in previous editions have gone on to win India's prestigious National Film Awards.
• Oscar Legacy: 4 foreign films screened at DIFF have served as the Official Academy Award (Oscar) entries on behalf of their respective countries.
• Global Country Partners: Over 15 years, nations like Canada, Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Morocco, Tunisia, Palestine, Russia, Palestine, and France have proudly served as official Country Partners.
• Africa in the Spotlight: This 15th edition featured a special institutional partnership with the National Film Institute of Mozambique (INICC), amplifying African voices.

Cultural Diplomacy & Global Footprint
DIFF is not merely a screening venue; it is an active vehicle for India's cultural diplomacy:
• International Screenings: DIFF has successfully organized dedicated Indian film programs globally, including in the Morocco, DPRK (North Korea), Sri Lanka, Egypt, Jordan, and Tunisia.
• Global Collaborations: Last year, in tandem with the Indian Embassy in Morocco, DIFF curated a massive Indian cultural festival in Morocco.
• The DIFFA Awards: Standing for the Delhi International Film Festival Academy Awards, this noble initiative expands the festival's footprint by hosting annual award ceremonies abroad to honor global contributions to Indian cinema.
• Mentorship of Domestic Festivals: DIFF actively extends its logistical, curatorial, and strategic support to regional festivals, including the Jharkhand International Film Festival, Haryana International Film Festival, and emerging festival properties across South India.

Complete Official Winners & Awards List (15th Edition)
Special Institutional & Lifetime Honors
• DIFF Lifetime Achievement Award: Conferred upon the world-renowned legendary singer, Ms. Usha Uthup, for her decades of unparalleled contribution to Indian music and culture.
• Cinematic Contribution Honors: Special honors were presented to creative luminaries including Anurag Punetha, Piyush Mishra, Arvind Gaur, Meghna Malik, Chitranjan Tripathi, and Sandeep Marwah for their dedicated service to the arts.
World Cinema & International Categories
• Best Film (Cinema Across the Border): The Dumpling Queen (China) – Directed by Andrew Lau (Award accepted on behalf of the film by Chinese Minister Counselor Wang Xinming).
• Best Story: Fog (Russia) – Directed by Natalia Gugueva.
• Best Director: Aichurok Borukeeva (Kyrgyzstan) for the film Stone.
• Best Actress (International): Daria Gavrushina (Russia) for her stellar performance.
• Best Adventure Film: The Hunter (Russia) – Directed by Zaur Sogoev.
• Best Historical Film: The Ballad of Piargy (Slovakia).
• Tribute Film Award: The Divorced of Casablanca (Morocco) – Directed by Moh. Ahed Bensouda.
Short Films & Social Themes
• Best Short Film (World Cinema): Happy End (Iran) – A Kurdish-Persian narrative.
• Best Social Short Film: Little Anna (Latvia) (Award accepted on behalf of the film by Latvian Ambassador Juris Bone).
• Best Actress (Short Film Category): Awarded to the lead performance in Damu Ki (Algeria).
• Best Social Theme Feature: Manusher Bagan (Bangladesh).
Indian Cinema Section & Technical Categories
• Best Actress (Joint Winners): Veteran screen icon Sharmila Tagore and powerhouse performer Rituparna Sengupta for their performances in the critically acclaimed film Puratan: The Ancient.
• Best Female Director (Regional Cinema): Sushila Rawat for her directorial work on Ghangtaul.
• Best Editor: Md. Tariq for his sharp technical brilliance in the film Raibar.
• Best Documentary: A New Postbox: Tales from the Partition – Directed by Dr. Sachchidanand Joshi.

A Star-Studded Industry Convergence
The 15th edition functioned as a massive networking hub for the global film community. The festival witnessed high-profile diplomacy with the active attendance of New Zealand's Deputy High Commissioner Matthew Ayres, Switzerland's Chargé d'Affaires Simon Sevan Schäfer, and top diplomats from Russia, China, and Bangladesh.
Industry stalwarts and legendary creators—including Subhash Ghai, Ketan Mehta, Runa Laila,—gathered to celebrate the art of film.
Festival Founder Ram Kishore Parcha concluded the milestone edition by expressing profound gratitude to the global film fraternity, participating diplomatic missions, and art enthusiasts, solidifying DIFF’s mission to celebrate cinema without borders.

15th Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF): A 15-Year Legacy of Global Cinema & Opening of 16th Edition Entries
Introduction & The 15-Year Milestone
The Delhi International Film Festival (DIFF) proudly celebrates its 15th anniversary in 2026, marking a decade and a half of excellence in the heart of India's capital. As a premier cultural bridge, DIFF connects India’s regional film industries with the global cinematic stage.

A hallmark of our credibility is that DIFF is organized with official exemptions from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India. This allows us to showcase groundbreaking international films and artistic narratives without conventional censorship barriers, ensuring the highest standards of creative freedom.
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Highlights of the 15th Edition (2026)
The 15th edition was a grand 5-day gala held from May 4 to May 8, 2026, at the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA), Ministry of Culture.
• Scale: 178 films from over 51 countries.
• Focus: Arab Cinema, Northeastern India, Women’s Empowerment, and Children’s Social Issues.
• Key Winners: Sharmila Tagore & Rituparna Sengupta (Best Actress - India), Ms. Usha Uthup (Lifetime Achievement), and international winners from China, Russia, Morocco, and Iran.

Now Open: Call for Entries for the 16th Edition!
Following the massive success of our 15th anniversary, we are thrilled to announce that entries are now officially OPEN for the 16th Delhi International Film Festival. We invite filmmakers from across the globe to submit their masterpieces and be part of this legendary journey.
Where to Submit?
To make the submission process seamless for filmmakers worldwide, we accept entries through our official website and all major global film platform:


• Festhome: https://festivals.festhome.com/ – For easy digital submission and tracking.

• Other Platforms: We are also active on other major international festival portals for your convenience.

Submission Categories:

We welcome submissions in the following categories:

1. World Cinema (Feature Films)
2. Indian Showcase (Regional & Hindi Features)
3. Short Films (Fiction & Animation)
4. Documentary (Feature & Short)
5. Cinema Across Border
6. Student Films
7. Green Cinema (Environment Focused)

General Rules & Regulations for Filmmakers

1. Eligibility: Films must have been completed after a specific date (usually the last 24 months).

2. Subtitles: All non-English films must have English subtitles.

3. Exemption: As an MIB-exempted festival, we prioritize artistic integrity, but films must comply with international screening standards.

4. Format: Initial submissions should be through secure online screeners (Vimeo/YouTube with password or digital upload).

5. Selection: The decision of the DIFF Selection Committee and Jury will be final and binding.

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Why Submit to DIFF?

• Proven Success: 8 DIFF-awarded films have won National Awards in India.

• Oscar Pathway: 4 foreign films screened at DIFF became their nation’s Official Entry for the Oscars.

• Global Networking: Engage with diplomats, industry stalwarts like Ketan Mehta, Piyush Mishra, and Tigmanshu Dhulia, and international distributors.

• Global Reach: Your film could be part of our international exchange programs in countries like Egypt, Morocco, and South Korea.

Join the 16th Edition of the Delhi International Film Festival.

Be a part of a legacy that celebrates cinema, culture, and the spirit of storytelling without borders.

Awards & Prizes

WORLD CINEMA

Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Documentary
Best Animation Film
Best Green Film
Best Student Film


ARAB CINEMA

Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Documentary
Best Animation Film


INDIAN SHOWCASE

Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Documentary
Best Animation Film
Best Green Film
Best Student Film


NRI CINEMA

Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Documentary
Best Animation Film


CINEMA ACROSS THE BORDER

Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Short Film, Best Director, Best Actor/Actress
Best Documentary
Best Animation Film
Best Green Film
Best Student Film

Audience Choice Awards & Critic’s Choice Award for all Sections

Artist Of The Year Award at DIFF ART SHOW.


Rules & Terms

ENTRY FEE FOR SUBMISSIONS OF FILMS:

(1) Entry fees for FEATURE FILMS (Duration: 50 mins to 105 mins max) : 5000/- INR or (63.23 USD)

(2) Entry fees for SHORT FILMS (Duration: 00.10 mins to 00.50 mins): 3,000/- INR or (36.27 USD)

(3) ANIMATION FILMS in all categories (Duration: 00.05 mins to 00.30 mins max).
(4) Entry fees for STUDENT FILMS: 1500/-INR or (21USD)

(LATE ENTRY FEES WILL BE DOUBLE THE ENTRY FEES MENTIONED ABOVE APPLICABLE TO FILMS SUBMITTED BEYOND THE DEADLINE ANNOUNCED)

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

1.Films without English Subtitles (except English Films), shall not be considered for selection.

2.Films submitted with watermarks or logos shall be rejected.

3.Only Trailers or promos cannot be submitted for selection process.

4.Film Download link with password is preferred, DVD or Bluray are also accepted as hard copies.

5.If submitting hard copies, Two full HD DVDs/Bluray should be sent by courier to the Festival office along with a hard copy of this entry form duly filled. DVDs must be labeled with film title, director name, duration, phone number and email id on them. Director pic, Poster, Film Stills may be attached in an email.

6. For submissions coming from outside India, the packages must be marked, “For Festival & Cultural Purpose only, No Commercial value”.

7. DIFF does not pay screening fees to film makers.

8. DIFF will not return the Films submitted online or vide DVDs/Pen Drives/ Blu-ray etc. during or after the festival.

TERMS & CONDITIONS:

1. DIFF reserves the right to showcase the film so submitted perpetually anywhere ( other festivals, television, online etc).

2. DIFF reserves the right to include the film and related material in its promotional activities.

3. All Decisions made by the Appointed “Selection Committee” regarding Selections, screenings, awards at the Festival in entirety will be final. In case of Dispute, decision of the President is final.

4. The film makers and their representatives undertake to use the official logo and the status of their Selection or Award strictly in conformation with DIFF 2022 designs and they further undertake to use such festival logo in all their promotions, posters and marketing publications with the consent of the festival.

5. A film selected for the festival does not run in competition automatically. A Jury will select the films which feature in Competition.

6. The Festival shall not bear / reimburse any freight or other charges in foreign or Indian currency.

7. Once selected for screening, the film shall not be withdrawn.

8. The last date of submissions of ENTRIES IS 10.12.2024 and Date of Intimation of Selection will be 15.12.2024


International Festival

Short film festival

Feature film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Experimental  Music Video



 
Logo of Spello International Short Film Festival

Deadline
05 Jan 2025


Published: 03 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films


Banner Spello International Short Film Festival

Spello International Short Film Festival

Spello, Italy


Spello is a wonderful old medieval village with amazing history, art, tradition, nature, food and wine, in the beautiful Italian region of Umbria.

Spello is placed in the centre of Italian area between Florence, Perugia and Rome.

…… a film finishes and everyone stands up to leave the screening room, the film credits are however still being shown, and in doing so the immense work by those professionals, who contributed to the making of the film with passion and professionalism, is overlooked. How much hard work and sacrifice has been involved? Who are these people behind the scenes?

For this reason the "Festival del Cinema Città di Spello ed I Borghi Umbri" – “RASSEGNA CONCORSO LE PROFESSIONI DEL CINEMA“, was established in 2012; dedicated to those professionals behind the scenes of cinema:

http://www.festivalcinemaspello.com/fcs/index.php/it/spelloisff

The idea of the festival was created by Donatella Cocchini, President of L’Associazione Culturale Aurora and by movie director, Fabrizio Cattani.

FROM 8 YEARS THE FESTIVAL HAS A NEW SECTION DEDICATED TO SHORT FILMS BY PROFESSIONALS FROM AROUND THE WORLD WITH THE COMPETITION:
“SPELLO INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL”

The Festival is characterized because it rewards the best professions who work behind the scenes to make a film. The jury will decide the winners by evaluating overall the various processes and professions who participated, especially the script, the cinematography, the costumes, set design, makeup, sound, music.

The next edition will be held from 7 to 16 MARCH 2025

Next Year video-makers from all over the world will be able to show their works in this new international competition open to short film of any genre.

Ten days of live screenings, Award Event and for all winners a beautiful and original trophy exclusively create for the Spello Int’lShort film Festival.

ATTENTION ALL THE SELECTED SHORT FILMS AND THE FINALISTS WILL BE SCREENED DURING THE FESTIVAL DAYS.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Other



 
Logo of La Picasa Film Fest

Deadline
05 Jan 2025


Published: 03 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films


Banner Festival Internacional de Cine La Picasa

La Picasa Film Fest

Cinco Saltos, Argentina


The International Film Festival “La Picasa” will be held in the town of Cinco Saltos (Río Negro, Argentina), on March 20, 21, 22 and 23, 2025. The Festival is organized by Picasa Team, social organizations in the region and with the collaboration of the Province of Río Negro. The programming is in charge of the Artistic Director Ivan Iannamico with the general production of Noelia Fuentes.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Terror



 
Logo of Curtas na Cesta

Deadline
03 Jan 2025


Published: 01 Jan 2025
 Has submission fees
Short films


Banner Curtas na Cesta

Curtas na Cesta

Lisboa, Portugal


Since June 2024, we have been organising independent and international cinema screenings in Lisbon, its focus being short films.

Our festival's mission is to make culture accessible to everyone!

Curtas na Cesta is Shorts in the Basket in english because we dedicate our time into harvesting the best and freshest cinema out there.


International Festival

Short film festival


 Fiction  Documentary  Animation  Fantastic  Terror  Other  Experimental  Music Video