Blog: Film festivals

Promoted and organized by the Peña Flamenca "La Platería", this film contest aims to highlight the different perspectives with which flamenco is contemplated and lived in the world, as well as the various forms that the genre adopts and how this influences, not only in the way many people feel the music, but also in the way they feel the music. but also in how feelings are perceived through it in its aspects and fusions. This initiative aims to promote audiovisual production in the field of flamenco, encourage production, artistic creation and the promotion of Flamenco Art through audiovisual proposals in different formats, such as documentaries and fiction.

We encourage the participation of both Spanish and foreign filmmakers and we especially encourage the presence of works by young directors.

This Festival was born with the aim of giving the possibility to numerous authors to produce and make films related to flamenco and its many aspects; dance, singing, guitar playing, history, ways of life etc. .....

It will be a space open to art and emotions that, from flamenco become documentary and fiction films, with the intention of providing added value to the field of creation and perception of flamenco as a social phenomenon beyond borders, races and beliefs of any kind. Those works that best show the different realities and sensitivities around flamenco in different parts of the world will be screened, with testimonies and experiences that go from the personal to the social movement that has its roots in flamenco as a way of life and expression of an entire people.

Aladerri International Film Festival (AIFF) is dedicated to the celebration of ‘Short Films’ a multi-day event in Chicago supporting filmmakers and giving them an opportunity to showcase their work in an effort to bring the most inspiring and impactful voices forward.

AIFF has been created to showcase both National and International works by emerging and established artists who are passionate about storytelling via the art of filmmaking.

We aim to share great stories with the audience, while supporting independent filmmakers across the World and will screen all films accepted into “Official Selection” in front of a live audience and the opportunity to have Q&A session with on-site filmmakers September 25- 27, 2026.

The San Isidro Young Film Festival is an initiative whose aim is to give visibility to independent short films created by young filmmakers. We are aware of how difficult it is to gain recognition in the film industry, as well as the frustration that this situation can generate. Therefore, the FCSI offers a platform for all young filmmakers in the province of Alicante to have the opportunity to present their projects to the public.

The International Street Film Festival is an annual celebration that showcases cinematographic works of exceptional quality that have been created independently and innovatively. This event seeks to promote and disseminate artistic expression through cinema, giving street filmmakers from around the world a platform to show their works to the public.

Our festival takes place in a variety of locations around the world, highlighting urban and outdoor spaces that allow audiences to enjoy a unique cinematic experience. We are pleased to present a wide selection of films that span diverse genres and themes, from experimental short films to documentaries, animated films and conventional narratives.

In addition to film screenings, the International Street Film Festival also offers a variety of activities and special events. These include workshops and lectures led by film industry experts, presentations of featured projects, talks with leading filmmakers, and post-screening Q&A sessions.

In Berlin — a city born from avant-garde ideas, fearless art, and creative rebellion — we decided to see differently, and act differently. BIPA is not just another film festival; it is a reimagining of what cinematic and visual recognition can be.

Two creative approaches make us distinct, pioneering, and progressive: 1. Our new, hybrid model of judging. 2. The wide spectrum of categories that embrace the entire world of visual storytelling.

**1. One Submission → Complete Judging** Unlike traditional models, at BIPA, submitting your project to its main category is enough. Your work is automatically considered for all relevant awards — including Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Actor/Actress, Best in Your Genre, and all major craft categories — evaluated by our international jury of accomplished filmmakers, artists, and educators. No additional fees. No extra categories. Just your art — fully seen.

Unlike conventional festivals, BIPA is not limited to cinema — we celebrate all forms of visual expression: from narrative and documentary films to animation, music videos, mobile and fashion films, photography, digital content, and immersive media (VR / AR / AI). Every visual creation has its place in BIPA’s universe, because we see “image” as the universal language of creativity — beyond format, length, or platform.

**???? Inaugural Edition: Winter 2026** Our inaugural Winter 2026 Season is a curated event that culminates in the live screening of selected works at **Brotfabrik Berlin** Cinema, on **January 24, 2026**.

We are not a “Prize Factory.” We are a Critic-Driven Cultural Ecosystem — a hybrid of festival and laboratory dedicated to evaluation, reflection, and support for emerging voices.

**???? BIPA’s Mission** We are here to build credibility, visibility, and meaningful artistic dialogue. BIPA — Where Judging Becomes Growth.

We don’t just reward the final result; we invest in the artist’s creative journey. Our selected creators enter the BIPA Support Ecosystem and may receive: • Curated screenings at partner cinemas in Berlin (beyond the seasonal showcase) • Critical Critiques — in-depth feedback from our jury to help refine the work • Global Spotlight — exclusive interviews and features across our media channels • Online Screenings & Talks — conversations with directors on BIPA’s YouTube channel • Production or Funding Support (Grants) — for selected future projects

If you are only looking for a laurel, there are many festivals out there. But if you seek growth, fair critique, and a cultural partner in Berlin — join BIPA.

**???? BIPA — Voicing New Visions.**

1. OBJECTIVES

The objectives of Festival de Malaga are to disseminate and promote Spanish films and their general cultural sphere. In this sense, the Festival is also a platform for Latin American film productions. Its functions include hosting an event for the different professional sectors of films in Spanish (construed as films produced in Spain and all of Latin America, including Brazil) to boost their development and promote international sales.

Festival de Málaga is recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers' Associations (FIAPF) (www.fiapf.org).

In compliance with these objectives, the 29th Edition of Festival de Málaga will be held from 6th to 15 th March 2026.

The LimaDocs Documentary Film Festival will take place from May 14 to 23, 2026. In its second edition, the festival invites filmmakers from all over the country to submit their feature films, short films, and medium-length documentaries completed between January 2024 and the closing date of this call for entries.

THIS YEAR'S THEME FOR 2026: JAPAN AND ITS CUISINE

This festival, created by cinema and gastronomy professionals, was born from their passion for these two themes; and from 2 books we wrote: 'les petits plats du grand écran' (Little Dishes of the Big Screen) (1999) (Canal + edition) and Ciné-bouffe (Cinema-Food) (2001) (Hors Collection edition); as well as from a first International Film and Gastronomy Festival that took place in Dijon (2004 and 2005).

It is therefore with a 'gourmand' pleasure that we decided to once again pay tribute, through this festival, to the delicious films (whether sharp or savory) evoking gastronomy, and to the most exquisite table scenes, to try to understand why and how they were 'cooked' by the directors who imagined them.

We also have the desire to use cinema 1 to build a bridge with healthy eating, and to discover or rediscover the taste of cooking in order to make informed choices, to eat less unconsciously. It is therefore with an insatiable 'gastrosophic' 2 pleasure that we have concocted the different themes of this event.  

We say of our village, classified as one of the most beautiful villages in France and a 'cité de caractère' (town of character), where the oldest houses date back to the 16th century, that it is a kind of little Hollywood of Brittany. It must be said that more than thirty feature films and series have been shot there, such as Tess, Chouans!, A Very Long Engagement..."

Welcome to the Second Annual From Beyond Film Festival, where the strange, shocking, and surreal take center stage. Held this October in the heart of Boise, Idaho, this brand-new celebration of fringe cinema invites audiences on a wild ride through horror, cult, sci-fi, fantasy, and all things wonderfully weird from across the globe.

Whether you're a lifelong lover of creature features or a curious newcomer looking to test your nerves, From Beyond will showcase a boundary-pushing lineup of films that defy genre rules and embrace the bizarre. This isn't just another festival—it’s a meeting place for misfits, mavericks, and midnight movie maniacs.

???? What to Expect

A curated selection of international and local films that explore the darker corners of cinematic imagination

World premieres, underground gems, and vintage cult classics

Engaging Q&As, filmmaker panels, and after-dark events

A creative community atmosphere at the Idaho Film Society, Boise’s vibrant indie film hub

???? Global Vision, Local Pulse From Beyond isn’t just about scares—it’s about storytelling. Each film reflects a unique worldview, and together, they build a shared space for genre lovers to explore new dimensions.

???? Come for the chills. Stay for the weird. This October, step into the void and discover what lies From Beyond.

The ExpoJoven Short Film Festival is an initiative organized by the Youth Department of the León City Council, whose objective is to promote young audiovisual talent and offer a space for exhibition and recognition to new creators. Through the screening of short films made by young filmmakers, the festival promotes creativity, artistic expression and cultural participation within the Leonese youth scene.

The 10th edition of **24 Risas por Segundo, International Film and Comedy Festival**, will take place **from May 11 to 17 in Mexico City**, and for that reason, we are **calling on Mexican and international filmmakers** to submit their **comedy films (shorts and features)** to be part of our program.

ESZENA is the Young Film Festival of Aragón, with a distinctly Aragonese identity and a national impact. It is a meeting point for young people, by young people, which seeks to focus on the new voices, those who in the future will carry the weight of the industry on their shoulders in Spain.

A festival to award and showcase emerging talent in cinema, both in front of and behind the cameras. At the same time, it serves as a platform to generate a network of talent for the future of cinema in the country.

ESZENA is a film festival held between the months of March and April. The 2026 edition will be its second edition with an official selection. ESZENA screens short films directed and scripted by young people, granting awards in technical categories such as cinematography, art direction, acting, etc.

At ESZENA, we provide opportunities and spaces for new young filmmakers and creatives. We are creating a much-needed space in Aragón. We are showcasing the new cinema. BEFORE IT HAPPENS.

“The Quarantine” is an international short film festival aimed at popularizing young and unknown authors among professional filmmakers’ circles. The festival is organized on completely voluntary basis, there are no screening fees and nobody receives any payment.

The festival takes place on the beach at “The Quarantine” fishing village which is the last standing fishing village in Varna, Bulgaria. The village is in danger of disappearing because a luxury residential complex is under construction on the coastline behind it. By provoking cultural exchange between contemporary artists from the whole world and locals, we intend to turn the fishing village into a culture and art zone and to preserve the fishermen’s way of life.

The name of the region “The Quarantine” comes from the past when sailors from commercial ships entering the harbour with suspicion of some kind of disease were taken ashore at the beach for the quarantine period of 40 days. In case they showed no signs of illness, they were allowed access to town. At present, the young authors who have still not found their realisation are in the state of a “Quarantine” – isolated by professional filmmakers’ circles. In analogy to the history of the location, we decided to name the festival “The Quarantine”.

New York Arts & Entertainment Film Festival (formerly NYC Popup Film Festival) celebrates quality independent films. Our goal is to bring quality short films to an audience and offer independent filmmakers a place to showcase their work. We also work to create network opportunities for future work to be created.

Short films of all genres are considered for Festival Screening.

Alexandria Cinema Days is an independent annual film festival held in the city of Alexandria, Egypt.

The festival aims to create an inspiring and competitive environment for filmmakers from all over the world, encouraging cinematic creativity in all its forms.

It seeks to highlight new cinematic voices and support emerging talents in narrative, documentary, and animation filmmaking — both short and feature-length — through a platform that promotes cultural exchange and artistic dialogue.

The festival honors outstanding works that reflect human experience and social realities through innovative and expressive storytelling.

ONLY FOR CHILEAN FILMMAKERS OR COPRODUCTION / SOLO PARA CINEASTAS CHILENOS O COPRODUCCIONES

Portland Under the Stars is the city’s newest celebration of cinematic creativity and storytelling, bringing the magic of film to the heart of the Pacific Northwest. Hosted at the historic McMenamins Mission Theater, this festival offers an unforgettable experience where Portland’s artistic spirit meets the glamour of the red carpet.

Picture yourself walking into one of Portland’s most iconic venues, surrounded by its vintage charm and intimate atmosphere. Start the evening with a red carpet welcome, complete with professional photos to capture your moment in the spotlight. Then, immerse yourself in a handpicked selection of films spanning diverse genres—thought-provoking narratives, laugh-out-loud comedies, gripping horrors, inspiring documentaries, and more.

But this is more than just a screening. Engage in live Q&A sessions with attending filmmakers and screenwriters, sharing your creative journey and connecting with an engaged audience. Be part of the action by voting for the Audience Choice Award, where every voice matters.

Wrap up the night with a lively award ceremony, honoring exceptional talent with custom-crafted trophies that celebrate Portland’s innovative and unique character. And for those seeking connections and collaboration, our outdoor networking mixer at Sonder provides the perfect setting to meet fellow filmmakers and creatives.

Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker, an established creator, or simply a lover of great cinema, Portland Under the Stars promises a night filled with inspiration, celebration, and community. This is your opportunity to be part of something new and extraordinary in one of the most creative cities in the world.

Ambrosia — the Spring Festival of Living Cinema

What is Ambrosia? Both the nectar of the gods and a poisonous plant. Our festival is just like that — a fusion of contrasts: inspiration and aftertaste, admiration and disillusion, the sublime and the ordinary.

At the Ambrosia International Film Festival, you’ll see world cinema in all its forms and moods — from comedy to tragedy, from documentaries to animation, from student shorts to full-length works by seasoned filmmakers.

We celebrate cinema that breathes, argues, surprises, and dares to be different. Ambrosia is a space where fresh ideas meet experience, and audiences can taste film — sometimes sweet, sometimes sharp, sometimes burning just a little.

The spring edition of Ambrosia is a celebration of contrasts and discoveries — where films awaken emotion and leave an aftertaste worth talking about.

All officially selected films will be shown on the big screen during the solemn final ceremony on April 24 – 26, 2026 in Moscow, Russia, and will be able to struggle for the main prize and the title of the “Best Film”. As well as for the prizes in the standalone nominations.

FestiBaldo was born with great enthusiasm — and a lot of effort — in the Sant Roc neighborhood (Badalona) in 2022. It is a festival organized by the 10th-grade students of Institut Escola Baldomer Solà.

This year marks the 4th edition, and we hope it will have the same impact as in previous years.

To participate, entrants must comply with the rules and regulations described below.

The Horror in Banfield International Film Festival was born with the central idea of spreading and promoting independent horror genre films and at the same time with the intention of creating a space for cultural exchange among horror lovers.

In the edition 2025 we inaugurate the section bizzarra for all the pearls that do not belong purely and exclusively to the field of horror.

Horror in Banfield is a space for the screening of films, short films and video clips as well as a meeting point to enjoy a comprehensive experience that includes directors, actors, producers, students and lovers of horror culture.

The selected films will be part of the official competition in the following categories.

. Best International Feature Film.
. Best Argentine Feature Film
. Best Latin American Feature Film .
. Best Bizarre Feature Film .
. Best International Short Film .
. Best Argentine Short Film .
. Best Horror Video Clip.
. Best Bizarre Short Film .
. Best Director .
. Best Actor/Actress .
. Best Production .
. Best Cinematography .
. Best FX .
. Best Trailer .
. Best Graphics/Poster.
. Best soundtrack .
. Best post production .
. Honorable Mention .
. Best feature film (audience vote) .