The Lebanese Independent Film Festival (LIFF) is an independent festival born in Lebanon, the land of diversity. It emerges from the Mediterranean region and aims to reach a global audience.
The vision of the LIFF is to establish Lebanon as a center for local and international filmmakers to share global perspectives as well as independent thoughts to a large audience through film.
The mission of the LIFF is to promote independent film culture and encourage its development.
It is a platform to support and display the work of artists and filmmakers; a networking event that will bring together international and local professionals along with festivalgoers in a beautiful setting.
Its goal is to enhance cultural growth. With independent films and panels on various topics addressed to a diverse audience, the festival will ensure the promotion of diversity and present an alternative healing tool for the Lebanese society.
It also aims to attract a broader audience and make the festival accessible to those interested in movies but that may live in farther regions.
LIFF will be the first to plan the screening of the same movie in three different regions simultaneously.
The LIFF Lebanese Independent Film Festival is in partnership with A Night Of Misfit Films Film Festival Arizona-USA, CIFF The Canadian Independent Film Festival and the Fantasy Film Festival Paris-France.
The Bogotá Experimental Film Festival, Cineautopsia, celebrates its XII (12th) edition in 2026.
We call upon works and artists from Colombia and around the world who are nonconformist and dissident toward the predominant modes of production and creation; we privilege the author’s gaze in unique creative processes of plastic exploration, making use of diverse technologies/resources/media, and developing individual, collective, or interdisciplinary dynamics of creation.
Throughout these 11 years of the festival, we have been committed to recognizing and highlighting an experimental, poetic, free, radical, and proactive cinema. A cinema that responds to the aesthetic, political, and philosophical needs of its authors, proposing artistic horizons far from conventional formulas and the hegemonic standards of audiovisual production. Our commitment has been to transform the ways of making cinema, exploring diverse methodologies of creation, and consolidating new forms of thought around audiovisual aesthetics and technique. Moreover, we have sought to generate sensitive and emotional encounters with audiences, expanding the possibilities of interaction, mediation, and participation of experimental cinema within the cultural and social spectrum of the community.
We believe that “the experimental” is not simply limited to an aesthetic or technical category within the cinematographic or audiovisual field—or even within the arts in general; we understand it as an unequivocal symptom of a collectivity that refuses to conform to the rules. The experimental represents a powerful way to problematize, question, or subvert what is established in order to transform, to contribute to cultural change and social dialogue.
It is through experimental cinema that we find authentic forms of creating audiovisual art, and in this way, we give space to every artistic manifestation in which form and content take risks to dismantle what is established, exploring creative boundaries that challenge generalized aesthetics, using in variable ways all types of devices, elevating both expressive means and the relationship between the audience and the work, while also inviting new forms of exhibition and circulation strategies.
“We rebel against conventions, against the tyranny of what is established, and against the invisible chains that bind creation to the canon. We oppose the domestication of the creative spirit, the cultural anesthesia that turns art into a soulless product, a good of empty and sterile entertainment or consumption.”
Within the ecosystem of conventional audiovisual production—directed by large industries or political/economic agendas and marked by repetitive formulas and pre-established narratives—experimental cinema emerges as a dissident voice. It defies the norm, questions established structures, proposes counter-narratives, and becomes a trigger for innovation, critical reflection, cultural transformation, and the search for new paths and forms of human expression. Experimental cinema is avant-garde and stands as a space of exploration, dissection, and reconfiguration of what we understand as the cinematographic image. We value fragmentation, deconstruction, error, and nonsense. Experimental cinema questions the very modes of existence of traditional cinema.
We also inquire into expanded cinema, in its performative or installation dimensions, which explore the body and action in real time, involving formats such as live cinema, VJ, mapping, fulldome, live coding, new media, multimedia cabaret, interactivity, or transmedia. These practices not only transcend the screen but also turn the cinematographic act into a living and ephemeral experience.
Under these parameters, any audiovisual work—without limitation of format, duration, or technique—is welcome to apply. We accept works that align with this idea of experimental cinema and explore subgenres such as found footage, cameraless cinema, abstract cinema, mixed media film/video, video art, video sculpture, video dance, choreo cinema, video performance, choreography and improvisation, music video, animation, screen art, expanded cinema, virtual reality, new media audiovisuals, etc.
In this 12th edition of the festival, which will take place in Bogotá in August 2026, we aim to strengthen programming in alternative and exhibition spaces, as well as online circulation through the festival’s official web platform. We will feature film screenings in theaters and alternative venues, artist talks, academic activities, industry meetings, creative laboratories, among others. All experimental audiovisual artists from around the world are welcome to the 12th edition of the Bogotá Experimental Film Festival, Cineautopsia.
Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF)
A Canadian Screen Award–Qualifying Festival
A Telefilm Canada–Qualifying Festival
One of Telefilm Canada’s 25 Approved Medium-to-Large Scale Film Festivals (2026–2027)
An Official IMDb Festival
The Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF) is one of Canada’s leading multicultural film festivals—recognized nationally and internationally for championing diversity, inclusion, and global storytelling. TINFF is proud to be:
• A Canadian Screen Award–Qualifying Festival
• A Telefilm Canada–Qualifying Festival
• One of Telefilm Canada’s Top 25 Medium-to-Large Scale Film Festivals for 2026–2027
• An official IMDb festival
• A registered Canadian non-profit organization headquartered in Toronto
TINFF has earned its position as a premiere platform for diverse filmmaking, representing Canada’s cultural mosaic and its deep ties to African, Caribbean, Indigenous, and international cinema communities.
A Festival With Distribution Power: Cinematic Box Distribution Canada
TINFF proudly operates a subsidiary company, The Cinematic Box Distribution Canada, which is officially approved by the Canada Media Fund (CMF) as an eligible worldwide distributor for CMF-funded films—up to $3.5 million in licensing and distribution value.
This distinction positions TINFF and its industry ecosystem as a gateway for:
• Canadian filmmakers seeking broad domestic and international reach
• International filmmakers with co-production treaties with Canada
• Productions aiming to ensure that Canadian stories are amplified and accessible both nationally and globally
TINFF’s integrated festival + distribution model provides unmatched market access, visibility, and opportunity for creators.
Celebrating Global Cinema, Diverse Voices, and Innovative Storytelling
TINFF champions inclusive filmmaking with a strong focus on multicultural, African diaspora, BIPOC, Indigenous, and international creators. As the first Canadian festival with authentic Nollywood roots to receive national recognition, TINFF continues to elevate global perspectives while fostering talent development in Canada.
Our community partners include:
Canadian Heritage, Canada Media Fund, Telefilm Canada, Ontario Creates, and the City of Brampton, among others committed to industry growth and equity.
Canadian Screen Awards Eligibility
Under Academy rules, films selected by at least two Academy-approved festivals may qualify for the Canadian Screen Awards. As an approved festival, all TINFF Official Selections (past and future) may use TINFF toward their Academy qualification.
Eligibility: https://www.academy.ca/canadian-screen-awards/rules-eligibility/
Annual Festival Highlights
TINFF delivers rich year-round programming leading into its live festival celebration, including:
• Film screenings with Q&A sessions
• Industry conferences, seminars, and conversations
• Live performances, cultural showcases, and stage plays
• Workshops, training labs, and mentorship (through TINFF Film Academy)
• Pitch sessions and market development programs
• Red carpet and Awards Gala
• International filmmaker networking and collaboration opportunities
TINFF CBDF Market Summit (Canada Black & Diversity Film Market)
A signature component of the festival, the CBDF Market Summit provides:
• B2B & B2C market activities
• Distribution & acquisition meetings
• Co-production and cross-border collaboration opportunities
• Masterclasses, workshops, and pitch development
• Film market screenings, with one-on-one and group meetings
The Summit connects Canada with African, Caribbean, European, and global markets, building pathways for sustained industry growth.
TINFF Expansion into Brampton: The Launch of BINFF
TINFF has expanded its footprint into the City of Brampton with the creation of the Brampton International Nollywood Film Festival (BINFF)—a sister festival designed to expand opportunities for local and global filmmakers.
BINFF provides:
• A second annual platform for filmmaking excellence
• Greater access for Peel Region creators
• Additional screening opportunities
• A broader audience reach across Brampton and the GTA
• A powerful pipeline between Toronto and Brampton for diverse filmmaking communities
Submit to BINFF:
https://festhome.com/
This expansion strengthens TINFF’s commitment to regional growth, talent development, and international cultural exchange.
International Collaborations
TINFF partners with global festivals—including the Prague Film Festival (PFF)—to promote cross-cultural engagement and film exchange. Winners from each festival receive reciprocal screening opportunities abroad.
Join Us and Celebrate the Power of Storytelling
TINFF welcomes filmmakers, industry leaders, and audiences worldwide to experience vibrant, diverse, and globally connected cinema. Our annual Awards Gala honours outstanding achievements that promote cultural understanding, equality, and creative excellence.
Website: www.tinff.net
Social Media: @tinffestiva
Cerdanya Film Festival, Festival Internacional de Cinema de Cerdanya, is a Festival specialized in the documentary, fiction and animation genre, short and feature films, consisting of competitive international sections, non-competitive sections and parallel activities. All the films that are part of the different sections will be selected by the Festival programmers.
Cerdanya Film Festival qualifies for Premios Goya – Spanish Film Academy in Best Spanish Shortfilm, in Fiction, Animation and Documentary categories.
The 16th edition of the Cerdanya Film Festival will be held from 1st to 17th August 2026.
We are pleased to announce the opening of the call for entries for the film festival "Celebrate the World: Holidays in Film". This festival aims to explore and celebrate the diversity of festivities and rituals around the world through the art of cinema.
We are looking for films, documentaries and short films that capture the essence of celebrations and traditions from different cultures, showing how people from different regions of the world commemorate their most significant events. Whether it is a traditional festival, a vibrant carnival, an ancestral ritual or a religious holiday, we want your work to be part of this unique experience.
The Albuquerque Film Festival, with the mantra 'Everybody is Somebody,' stands as a beacon of digital celebration for the world's storytellers. Nestled in the heart of New Mexico's vibrant capital, Albuquerque, our festival opens its doors wide, welcoming a kaleidoscope of cinematic talent from every corner of the globe.
Dive into the fray with your masterpieces, as we call for submissions across all film genres; there's a spotlight here for every creator, regardless of nationality. It's your time to shine, to vie for prestigious awards across a multitude of categories.
Let's unite. Let's craft. Let's rejoice.
Boasting a spectrum as broad as the imagination itself, our festival invites you to join an esteemed circle, where selected films don't just screen—they compete for a host of distinctions, bestowed both by our expert panel and the audience's voice. Rest assured, every entry is given the attentive gaze it deserves. As seasoned filmmakers, we resonate with the dedication poured into your craft. That's why we elevate Officially Selected films with a spotlight dialogue—up to 10 minutes of in-depth conversation about your creative journey, shared on our official website, YouTube channel, and across social media landscapes.
Our committee is as varied as the films we celebrate, featuring a global tapestry of professionals—Architects to Entrepreneurs, Artists to Filmmakers, and VFX Producers—each bringing a unique perspective to the screen. Every submission is watched thoroughly, ensuring your vision is seen and appreciated in its entirety.
Our Goals:
To broadcast fresh, trailblazing narratives and cinematic discourse from across the world.
To offer an exclusive glimpse into the pioneering realm of New Cinema.
To foster the exchange of ideas and experiences among our event's vibrant participants.
Our Creed:
We are the champions of the cinematic dreamer, the believers in the power of story. The 'Everybody is Somebody' Albuquerque Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the most diverse array of narratives. Our mission? To empower every filmmaker with a burning passion, to connect creators with audiences, and to help solidify their mark in the ever-expanding universe of film.
Zacatlán Puebla Multicultural Festival: Camino al Tlalocan, in this second edition 10 selected feature films will be shown, which will compete for the audience award: The Camino al Tlalocan statuette.
From April 22 to 26, 2026, the 55th edition of the Sehsüchte International Student Film Festival, one of Europe's largest festivals for up-and-coming filmmakers, will take place in Potsdam. It offers up-and-coming filmmakers from all over the world a platform to present their work to a wide audience and build contacts in the industry. Started in the 1970s as a GDR film festival for young filmmakers, Sehsüchte has established itself over the decades as an internationally important film festival and has become an integral part of Berlin and Brandenburg's cultural landscape.
Sehsüchte sees itself as a place of encounter and creation, as an event of cultural diversity and a celebration of cinema, today and tomorrow. The organization and implementation of the festival is entirely in the hands of students from the Film University Babelsberg KONRAD WOLF. This enables a dynamic exchange between young talents, media makers and researchers.
Motto 2026: What's left?
The motto of the Sehsüchte film festival in 2026 is What's left?. In the 55th edition of Sehsüchte, we want to direct our view into the past, present, and future. What’s left? wants to know what remains — of our ideals, our home, our hopes and fears, and of a world we want to believe in. With What’s left?, we want to challenge the pessimism implied by the question: We want to recognize the potential for change, and develop future perspectives not in spite of, but because of the challenges of the present. What’s left? means taking responsibility, allowing ourselves to say goodbye, and finding the courage for new opportunities and collective visions —to achieve constructiveness beyond resignation.
What’s left? What’s left to hope for? What’s left to do?
Artistic and cinematic explorations, workshops, and discussion formats want to invite filmmakers and audiences alike to face the complexity of this world. Between upheaval and awakening, tradition and rebellion, grief and hope: in its 55th edition, Sehsüchte wants to create spaces in which filmmakers and audiences can encounter political and personal crises in order to find out what does remain.
Sections:
● Fiction Film
● Documentary Film
● Animated Film
● Experimental Film
● Focus: Social Impact - Storytelling and Producing
● Future: Kids
● Future: Teens
● Virtual Reality
● Music Video
● Schreibsüchte (Script)
● Schreibsüchte (Pitch)
● Retrospective
● Exhibition - Beyond the Screen
● Showcase
The festival's mission is to exhibit the best films from the around the world and create a safe haven festival event for filmmakers and cineastes to co exist and learn from each other. Our vision is to be the festival that links independent films to the proper audience and to find distribution during our event.
Accepting full-length features, short films and documentaries from professionals and amateurs alike, SohoFilmFest will hold screenings, panels and host social events and other networking opportunities for everyone involved. Leading figures from all disciplines of the film industry including distributors and media will be in attendance.
Ladies and Gentlemen,
The PROMOTER OF FICIAT, Mrs. Alvine KOUAMBO, is pleased to announce the 12th edition of the International Festival of Independent Cinema and Theatrical Art "FICIAT".Scheduled from March 25 to 28, 2026, in Bafoussam - Cameroon.
This event, initiated by the association Screen for the Renewal of African Culture, abbreviated as "ERECA", will bring together actors from Cinema and theatrical art from all corners of the world.
The theme of this edition is "FROM THE STAGE TO THE SCREEN: SPARKING IMAGINATION, CONNECTING PEOPLES, AND UNITING CULTURES."Submissions for films and theatrical performances that will be in competition and out of competition during the Festival are welcomed. For this Festival, a gigantic platform named will be established. This is where the main activities of the Festival will be concentrated. Spaces will be available, but in very selective quantities.
FICIAT is under the high patronage of the Ministry of Arts and the Culture of Cameroon. It is registered under No. 024/MINAC/SG/DASEC/SAEC/012, as well as in the register of International Film Festivals at the WITHOUTABOX organization in the United States of America under ID No. 11,891.
For all information, please refer to the following address:
INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF INDEPENDENT CINEMA AND THEATRICAL ART Building, next to Tennis Club
P.O. Box: 557 Bafoussam-Cameroon
Tel: (237) 657 571 058 / 699 840 853 / 673 282 619
E-mail: infos.ficiat@gmail.com
Website: http://ficiat.net
Facebook: Ficiat
Best regards!
The CINALFAMA FILM OBSERVATORY, held in a historic neighborhood, emerges as a transformative cultural initiative that strengthens the community network. By showing independent films, the project not only widens access to alternative and innovative narratives but also stimulates cultural engagement among residents, fostering a sense of identity and belonging.
This regular event, which takes place at Museu do Fado Auditorium, becomes a meeting point where generations cross paths, sharing experiences and reflections that transcend mere film viewing. In addition, by being located in a neighborhood with a rich historical heritage, the observatory revitalizes the urban space, attracting visitors and enhancing the appreciation of the local heritage, generating a very positive cultural dynamic
The Cinalfama Film Observatory is a regular cinema competition in January, April, and October.
The winning films of each of the three editions (Jan, Apr, Oct), will be showcased in our annual outdoor cinema event, Cinalfama Lisbon International Film Festival, in July 2025.
Jersey City Popup Film Festival (JCPFF) is designed to be a fun relaxed film festival, offering quality independent films and networking opportunities.
We strive to create opportunities for networking with fellow filmmakers and actors before and after the screenings.
Each festival will have an after party and awards.
The films, selected by a committee, include features, shorts, music videos, webisodes, and documentaries.
VerSonar – Music in Film Festival.
VerSonar celebrates the power of music in cinema. We invite short, medium, and feature-length films in categories such as music video, fiction, documentary, and biopic, offering space for new perspectives and promoting local identity.
The selected works will be presented in official screenings and a variety of festival-related activities.
VerSonar is a meeting point for creators and audiences, where music and image intertwine to tell stories that can be both felt and heard.
Syncro is a national and international short film festival dedicated to elevating and showcasing the short film format.
The festival offers a new approach to viewing short films by programming each film in an individual screening. We firmly believe that short films are not a lesser format or merely a learning stage in filmmaking. On the contrary, they represent cinema in its most potent and compact expression.
The third edition of the Short Selection will take place as part of the new Cavaion Film Festival, organized by Liberamente Cavaion APS from January 17 to 18, 2026, at the E. Turri Civic Hall in Cavaion Vicenza.
The films in competition will be divided into three categories: local, international, and young. The selection will be made after the nominations are closed and at the discretion of the event's artistic director.
The evening of Saturday, January 17, will be dedicated to the local selection, while the evening of Sunday, January 18, will be dedicated to the international selection.
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.
Welcome to the Arjuntala International Film Festival—an extraordinary cinematic journey that transcends the boundaries of traditional film festivals. Founded by a group of passionate creatives, AIFF is driven by a profound love for artistic innovation and an unwavering commitment to fostering emerging talent.
At AIFF, our mission is clear: to empower filmmakers as they launch their professional careers in the dynamic world of cinema. Beyond merely showcasing your work on a global stage.
Our festival is truly international, welcoming filmmakers from every corner of the globe. We eagerly anticipate films that embody courage, personal determination, and distinct voices. Our boundless enthusiasm for creativity knows no bounds, and we wholeheartedly embrace a wide range of projects that exemplify ingenuity and artistic brilliance. Our dedication extends to supporting and inspiring content creators, creating an environment where creativity can truly flourish.
So, welcome to the Arjuntala International Film Festival, where the spotlight shines on filmmaking every month. For the winners of AIFF, we proudly present an exclusive laurel and certificate in JPG format, a testament to your achievement that you can display or print with pride. Submit your masterpiece today and embark on your cinematic journey with AIFF—an unparalleled opportunity to break through boundaries and unlock new horizons in the world of filmmaking.
Papagena Festival: Celebrating Art in All Its Forms
Get ready to experience a unique experience of art, culture and creative expression! The Papagena Festival brings a program full of audiovisual exhibitions, visual arts, lectures and social actions, creating an inclusive space for everyone.
With the goal of providing an inclusive and learning space, the event will take place physically, at the Associação Tapeçaria Timbi, and also virtually via Vimeo, the official website and YouTube, allowing everyone to participate from anywhere.
During the event, you will have the opportunity to explore short films, illustrations, photographs and debates that reflect on the impact of art on society, while contributing to the construction of a more collaborative and conscious culture.
What to expect?
Audiovisual Exhibitions: Screening of short films and independent films of various genres, with emphasis on local and international productions.
Visual Arts: Exhibition of works by established and emerging artists, with a focus on innovation and authenticity.
Lectures and Debates: Conversations about the future of the arts, cultural entrepreneurship and the importance of art in social transformation.
Social Actions: Initiatives to promote culture and community engagement, with projects that seek to positively impact society. During the festival, a book drive will be held for the city library, encouraging the donation of literary materials that will help enrich the reading offering for the local community.
Why participate?
If you are passionate about art, culture and innovation, this event is for you! Come to be inspired, learn and share your creative vision with other artists and diverse audiences. It doesn't matter if you are an enthusiast, a professional or just curious - everyone is welcome to be part of this vibrant and transformative celebration.
Join us and be part of this journey of art, reflection and human connection!
The Atena Nike Film Award, now in its fourth edition, is distinguished by the growing space it dedicates each year to emerging talents and debut works.
We are already working on the fourth edition, the 2025 edition: this year, as in previous years, both short films and feature films may be submitted.
As always, the theme is linked to social issues.
Date and location of the new edition:
9 July – Casa del Cinema, Rome
Submission deadlines
Feature films: 28 February 2026
Short films: 28 April 2026
Artistic Director: Giampietro Preziosa
Giampietro Preziosa
An architect and film producer, he has made his artistic flair into a profession, bringing his innovative ideas into the cinematic field. A skilled communicator and businessman, he is a key figure at INTHEL FILM S.r.l., a film production company with thirty years of experience. He has overseen the artistic direction of the Atena Nike Award in previous editions, giving the Prize a distinctly refined identity and high editorial quality.
Alina Trabattoni
Journalist and foreign correspondent with decades of experience at major outlets including CGTN Europe, TRT World, Reuters, Bloomberg, Associated Press, BBC, LA Times, CNN, CNBC, ABC, People Magazine, NBC, Eurovision, Standard & Poor’s Platts, Deutsche Welle, The Times, Screen International, the European Broadcast Union (EBU), International Herald Tribune, Euronews, and Montel News. She served as co-artistic director of the Globo D’Oro Film Award for six editions, beginning in 2018.
Artistic Management
Fabrizio Apolloni
(Artistic management and direction of the awards ceremony)
Actor, voice actor and dubbing director, Apolloni began working in theatre at a very young age, later moving into film and TV. Also active in education, he is currently a teacher at Action Academy. He is a member of the supervisory board of Nuovo Imaie and a founding member of RAAI – the Register of Italian Actresses and Actors.
Salvo Saverio D’Angelo
(Short Film Jury Coordinator)
Actor and music producer under the pseudonym SSd Project, he trained at Francesca De Sapio’s acting school and at Actors Planet. His eclectic personality has led him to work in TV, cinema and music. He has been a radio presenter, TV correspondent for Rai2 Notte, and TV host on Sky channels and for TV Cinquestelle. He has received various awards, including the Atena Nike Award.
Armando Pizzuti
(Artistic management)
One of the most respected casting directors in the Italian film scene, his career began in 2015 collaborating with major Italian and international productions, including the series The Young Pope directed by Oscar-winner Paolo Sorrentino. Since then, he has worked with renowned directors such as Ben Affleck, Derek Cianfrance, David Frankel, Terrence Malick, Simon Curtis, Edoardo Ponti and Michael Mann. In 2022 he received the Ischia People Award as Best Casting Director for his contribution to Italian cinema worldwide.
Academy
The work of the artistic management, co-directors and the foreign press jury is supported by an Academy selected for its experience and high artistic and professional qualification. It consists of five figures from the fields of acting, cinema, music and theatre.
Claudia Gerini
An eclectic and versatile actress, born in Rome, where she began her artistic career. After working in fashion and television, she gained public attention with Carlo Verdone in Viaggi di nozze and Sono pazzo di Iris Blond. Hollywood cast her in Under the Tuscan Sun and in Mel Gibson’s The Passion of the Christ, where she played Claudia Procula, the wife of Pontius Pilate. In 2004 she appeared in Don’t Move by Sergio Castellitto. Many intense years followed with Nero bifamiliare, The Unknown Woman, My Tomorrow by Marina Spada, and the horror film Tulpa by Zampaglione. She returned to comedy in Love Is in the Air by Fausto Brizzi. She achieved international fame in John Wick 2 with Keanu Reeves and won the David di Donatello for Love and Bullets by the Manetti Bros. On TV she played Sara Monaschi in Netflix’s Suburra. She made her directorial debut in 2022 with Tapirulan and recently appeared in Il corpo by Vincenzo Alfieri.
Lucia Sardo (Aurora Sardo)
Actress, director and screenwriter, she studied under major masters of experimental theatre such as Eugenio Barba, Peter Brook and Jerzy Grotowski. She founded the Institute of Theatrical Culture in Santarcangelo di Romagna and directed the prestigious Santarcangelo Festival, one of the most important experimental theatre events in Europe. She made her film debut in 1992, working with directors such as Aurelio Grimaldi, Giuseppe Tornatore and Marco Tullio Giordana in One Hundred Steps. Unforgettable protagonist of Picciridda – With Feet in the Sand by Paolo Licata and The Carousel by Giorgia Cecere, she reached Hollywood with the Netflix series From Scratch by Reese Witherspoon, alongside Zoe Saldana. Her collaboration with Franco Battiato, playing herself, is memorable. Recently she appeared as Lucia in It Happens in the Best Families and as Rosa Balistreri in The Love I Have, presented at the Torino Film Festival.
Lorenzo Urciullo & Antonio Di Martino (Colapesce & Dimartino)
The Sicilian singer-songwriters, best known as Colapesce and Dimartino, are among the most acclaimed names in contemporary Italian music. Since 2020 the duo has won over audiences and critics with songs such as Musica leggerissima and Splash, earning multiple awards: at Sanremo, the Lucio Dalla Press Room Award and the Mia Martini Critics’ Prize; a Nastro d’Argento; and Best Original Score at the Globo d’Oro Film Award. They are also active in cinema, with their first film La primavera della mia vita, accompanied by an album of the same name.
Federica Vincenti
Actress, theatre and film producer, singer and composer. In 2004 she founded Goldenart Production, an outstanding company producing numerous theatre shows, feature films and short films marked by strong artistic and emotional identity, earning her many awards. Since 2006 she has acted and sung in various theatre and film productions, working with directors such as Roberto Andò and Michele Placido, and performing alongside icons like Giorgio Albertazzi, Mariangela Melato, Moni Ovadia, Massimo Ranieri and many others. After playing Marta Abba in Michele Placido’s latest film Eterno visionario, she is currently preparing to star in the new theatre production Sissi, the Empress, directed by Roberto Cavosi, premiering in late February 2025.
Press Jury
For the 2026 edition, a press jury will again be introduced, composed of Italian and international journalists, experts in their field and passionate about cinema.
The Press Jury is chaired by Vera Naydenova, journalist and Italy correspondent for bTV Media Group. From 2018 to 2024 she was part of the Cinema Committee as Head of TV Series for the prestigious Foreign Press Award Globo d’Oro. She currently also serves as a Board Member of the Association of Foreign Press in Italy.
Short Film Section
Responsible:
Salvo Saverio D’Angelo
Jury President:
……………
Jury Members:
Matthew Gentile, award-winning director and screenwriter, known to the general public for his debut feature film American Murderer, which achieved significant success.
Paolo Licata, director, trained in film and theatre directing at Cinecittà; he made his film debut with his first feature Picciridda, awarded at the Taormina Film Festival. His latest film L’amore che ho will be released in theatres in spring.
Alessandro del Vigna, Italian-Romanian film producer and writer, executive producer of Triangle of Sadness (Ruben Östlund), Siberia (Abel Ferrara) and The End (Joshua Oppenheimer).
Donatella Pascucci, expert in French cinema; she has worked for the Gan Foundation, and been involved in the organization of the Italian Film Festival, Comicittà, the Campidoglio Masters of Cinema Award, and the Barbaro Award for Best Cinema Book. She has served on juries for the Montre Leonard Festival du Film d’Amour in Mons, the Bolzano Film Festival, the Florence Short Film Festival, and Valdarno Cinema. She is a member of the Italy-France Co-production Commission of the Ministry of Culture (Cinema and Audiovisual Directorate).
Marianna Sciveres, Italian director, screenwriter and set designer, graduated in set design from the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia. In 2002 she made her first feature film Sara May, a work of national cultural interest. She has been a set and costume designer for numerous film and TV productions.
Heidrun Schleef, Italian screenwriter of German origin, studied directing at the Centro Sperimentale di Cinematografia. She has received three David di Donatello nominations and two Nastro d’Argento awards, and has worked with numerous masters of cinema.
