Blog: Film festivals

MACAU INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL (“FESTIVAL”) is an annual worldwide audio-visual festival that aims to motivate overseas and Macau short film and music videos productions to compete in this FESTIVAL.

The Festival was previously known as "Sound & Image Challenge" and was first launched in 2010 focusing only on an audiovisual competition for local talent. This initiative was co-founded with professionals in film, music, sound and image fields, with two priorities: to promote the Creative Industries in the audiovisual sector and highlight the local talents in the production of sound and moving image design. Over the years, it expanded across 5 continents, grew and gained recognition, and finally became a short film festival in 2015.

The Festival will be held from 6 to 12 December 2026. A series of cultural programs will be scheduled in venues throughout Macau during the Festival week, such as public screenings of “SHORTS & VOLUME” official selection, Masterclasses of film production, development, International Film Festival curatorship and organising; audience voting for “Audience Award”; as well as gala awards ceremony.

RURÉFILOS, International Film and Rural World Festival is a multidisciplinary meeting point in which, through audiovisual language, a space is provided for debate and creative reflection on the past, present and future of the rural world.

International Spanish-Language Comedy Short Film Festival

Horizons IA – Punta del Este International AI Film Festival – celebrates its first edition from May 27 to 31 at The Grand Hotel in Punta del Este (Maldonado, Uruguay). This new international event is dedicated to exploring the creative possibilities of cinema made with artificial intelligence and the new forms of storytelling that emerge from the dialogue between artists and generative technologies.

Over five days, Horizons IA will present a selection of short films from around the world, along with talks, meetings, and the participation of national and international guests linked to cinema, technology, and digital arts.

With free admission, the festival seeks to become an open space for discovering new perspectives, experimenting with the audiovisual languages of the future, and connecting creators who are expanding the horizons of cinema in the age of artificial intelligence.

CIMASUB 2026. The 50th edition of the San Sebastián International Underwater Film Festival, to be held on 12, 13 and 14 november 2026, is organised by the Subacuáticas Real Sociedad, and aims to raise awareness of the underwater world, and raise awareness of respect and care for our seas and oceans, through the dissemination of audiovisual works.

XIII Edition Pávez Awards - Talavera de la Reina International Film Festival. From October 16 to 23, 2026.

GOYA, FORQUÉ, FUGAZ AND IBERSHORTS AWARDS QUALIFYING FESTIVAL.

- Short films of Spanish or Ibero-American production and/or direction.

- Short films produced from January 1, 2025.

- Spanish spoken language or original language with spanish subtitles.

- Maximum running time: 30 minutes with credits included.

- They may not be hosted on free viewing online platforms.

- 5 competitive sections: National (Official Section), International (Ibero-America), Local (Talavera de la Reina), Animation and Documentary.

- 18 categories opting for a prize.

- 5700 euros + 18 Pávez awards.

- Screening fee for selected films in all sections.

- DCP required for Official, International and Local Selection.

Kika Kills Producciones is organizing the 6th Ponme un corto International Short Film Festival, in collaboration with the Huerta de Rey Town Hall.

Prizes totaling over €4,000 will be awarded.

Official Section Requirements:

Maximum duration: 20 minutes.

Production date after January 1, 2024.
Eligible projects: fiction, documentary, and animation.

90s Section Requirements:

Duration under 120 seconds.

Production date after January 1, 2024.
Eligible projects: fiction, documentary, and animation.

Local/Regional Section Requirements:

Maximum duration: 5 minutes.

Production date after January 1, 2025.
Eligible projects: fiction, documentary, and animation.

Please read the rules carefully to see if you are eligible to participate.

This is an excerpt from the rules. Consult the call for applications for more information.

International Western Film Festival.

Festival start date: … October 2026
Festival end date: … October 2026

Pulp Vision, Neoma BS’s film club, is pleased to present the 14th edition of the “Tournez-court” short film festival.

For this new edition, we have chosen to highlight student creativity and the art of cinema around the theme “Memory.” As a space for encounters, memories, and opportunities, memory strikes us as an infinite source of inspiration, embodying a unique aesthetic.

Short films are open to all languages, provided they are subtitled in French. Our goal is to celebrate the diversity of cinematic perspectives and experiences, in order to bring forth varied and sensitive interpretations of this theme.

Fiction, documentary, animation, or experimental film: all formats are welcome. Each film will thus be able to offer its own interpretation of the theme and explore the many dimensions of memory. We therefore invite filmmakers and film enthusiasts to give free rein to their imagination and share their vision on the big screen.

ACTRUM is a non-profit Cultural Association that works in all areas of the artistic sector.

In this festival, the finalist works will be screened online and it will be open to the public, who will have to vote through our website for their 3 favorite shorts/feature films from each section to award the public prizes.

Register your project! We accept any gender.

IA en Corto is an International Short Film Festival dedicated to exploring new forms of audiovisual creation emerging from the use of Artificial Intelligence.

The festival seeks works that research, experiment with, or integrate AI tools at any stage of the creative process, including image generation, animation, scriptwriting, editing, sound design, or narrative development.

IA en Corto was created as a space for filmmakers, digital artists, audiovisual creators, and experimental artists from around the world who understand artificial intelligence not only as a technical tool, but as a new creative language.

The festival celebrates innovation, diversity of perspectives, and the dialogue between cinema, technology, and the future.

It is not required for the entire short film to be generated using AI; however, its use must be relevant and creative, not merely technical or incidental.

The Soul Center of Art & History is partnering with AfriSoul Education Center to celebrate BIPOC women in film for International Women’s Day .

the Soul Center Film Fest was created to:

1. Showcase a diverse array of films that expand our understanding of the world, confront critical social justice issues—like racial equity, immigration, public safety, and environmental justice—and delve into the dynamics of human relationships.


2. Amplify the voices and stories of Black and Brown filmmakers, both emerging and established.


3. Encourage dialogue, collaboration, and action by connecting filmmakers, activists, and audiences.


4. Foster a space for critical reflection and empathy through the art of storytelling.

Welcome to the Indie Film Festival Awards (IFFA)!

The Indie Film Festival Awards (IFFA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization dedicated to celebrating the creativity and innovation of independent filmmakers from all over the world. Our mission is to foster community engagement through the art of cinema and to provide a platform for talented filmmakers, regardless of borders, languages, or genres.

Based in New York City, the IFFA presents a one-of-a-kind festival that connects independent filmmakers and content creators from all corners of the globe. We offer a unique blend of online award nominations, live screenings, and an in-person Indie Film Festival Awards Show, bringing together artists, industry professionals, and audiences in an unforgettable celebration of independent cinema.

A Global Platform for Independent Film
IFFA stands out as a film festival with no barriers — films of all genres and languages are welcomed. A dedicated committee of industry experts previews submitted films, carefully selecting outstanding works to be featured in our Award Nomination Festival.

Award Nomination Festival

The selected films will participate in the IFFA Award Nomination Festival, which runs from mid-February 2025 to mid-April 2025. During this period, all nominated films will be showcased on the Indie Films World streaming platform for a nominal fee of $1.49. Fifty percent of the revenue generated will be shared with the producers, supporting their continued creative efforts.

After the two-month festival period, these films will be removed from the platform. Films will be screened via a secure server, allowing viewers from around the world to watch and vote. The 25 films receiving the most votes will be nominated for 25 prestigious award categories.

Live Screenings & Awards Show

The nominated films will be screened live in New York City at our premier theater venue located in the heart of Downtown Manhattan. The grand finale of the festival will take place on the last day of screenings during the Indie Film Festival Awards Show, where filmmakers, actors, and technicians will be honored for their outstanding work in independent cinema.

Opportunities for Filmmakers

IFFA offers more than just awards. We bring distributors to the festival, giving producers and content creators the chance to meet, network, and explore distribution opportunities. IFFA also assists in distributing films worldwide, including through platforms like Amazon Prime Video.

Submissions

IFFA accepts submissions for all types of films, including:

Feature narratives
Short films
Television shows and series
Documentaries
Animation
Student films

We invite filmmakers, creators, and artists to submit their work and be part of this exciting celebration of independent cinema. Join us in showcasing new voices and innovative stories that will shape the future of film!

Why Choose IFFA?

Global Exposure: Showcase your film on an international platform.

Revenue Sharing: Receive 50% of streaming revenue from the festival.

Networking: Connect with distributors and industry professionals.

Recognition: Gain recognition and award nominations for your work.

Distribution: Opportunities to distribute films worldwide.

We look forward to celebrating your creative work and welcoming you to the Indie Film Festival Awards!

The Films Infest festival is Official Event in IMDB. The prizes of the editions of Mallorca and NYC are officially recognized.

https://www.imdb.com/event/ev0005660/2017/1/?ref_=ev_eh

All films submitted are considered equally and carefully, through a multiple-stage prescreening process involving as well as industry professionals.

About Us

The New York City International Films Infest Festival (NYCIFIF) is an extension of the Palma de Mallorca Films Infest.

NYCIFIF’s mission is to showcase the content of emerging and of great artists filmmaking talent de U.S, Spanish, Ibero-American and other countries of the world.

Films of all genres are accepted and those chosen for screening display a high-level of artistic excellence.

Artistic Manifesto

In the first edition of “Palma de Mallorca Films Infest”, which was held on January 28, 2017, the great actress Claudia Cardinale signed our artistic manifesto to stimulate the growth of author`s cinema and support for young filmmakers

Excerpt from the manifesto:

It is undeniable that we must start with a natural talent, the best possible preparation and a great vocation; but the solitary effort becomes as depilating as the exhaustion of the castaway. If no one gives you a hand, a support, an advice or an opportunity … you end up abandoning.

Quite contrary to wanting a” greenhouse of chosen ones”, with docile filmmakers in the service of local corporations, or TV channels, to make “tailor made” products (frozen vegetables, all the same), we invoke the great George Orwell in “Animal Farm” and we want a “Rebellion in the orchard”

We want fresh cultural products, with their own roots, different perfumes, flavors from each shore and each sea. Mountain air and the unmistakable aroma of truth that shines in the sun. Truths written, painted, filmed, recorded, and narrated … without fear: tall as sequoias or delicate as a saffron stamen. An art that has seeds! A seed culture that enlightens minds.

Read the Complete Manifesto in http://filmsinfest.com

In the editions of the NYCIFIF, we will also read the manifesto and take the signature book.

Previous editions;

First Edition 2018 (Cinepolis) and (Producers Club)
Second Edition 2019 (Lincon Center) and (Producers Club)
Third Edition 2022 (La Nacional) and (Producers Club)
Fourth edition 2023 (La Nacional) and (Producers Club)
Fifth edition 2024 (La Nacional)

Fourth edition of Aldea Vella · Folk Horror Festival, which will be linked to folk horror.

The Zentenero Short Film Showcase (MCZ) is an international short film festival celebrating its first edition from July 17 to July 19 in Zentenero, Spain.

MCZ was created with the aim of bringing cinema to rural environments and creating a meeting point between filmmakers and audiences, supporting both emerging and established talent regardless of geographic origin.

Despite being an intimate showcase, its vision is ambitious: to present a carefully curated international official selection and recognize cinematic excellence across multiple artistic and technical disciplines.

Selected films will be screened during the festival dates in front of both the audience and an official jury, which will present several awards as well as the audience award, the "Premio d'o Gurrión".

MCZ aims to become a meeting point for independent cinema and a platform to highlight new cinematic voices in an authentic and culturally committed environmen

Santiago Horror is a festival that promotes and showcases fantastic cinema in Latin America — a space where genre filmmaking finds a place to grow, connect, and transcend borders.

More than a festival, we are an active platform dedicated to creation, promotion, and exhibition, fostering encounters between filmmakers, new creative voices, and audiences from around the world.

Our mission is to strengthen the production and circulation of fantastic cinema in Chile and across the LATAM region, supporting those who create these stories while opening new opportunities for their works to reach broader audiences and new territories.

With each edition, we seek to challenge convention, celebrate imagination, and establish Santiago Horror as a meaningful meeting point for the industry, creators, and genre film lovers worldwide.

Organized by: Fundación Chile Fantástico

Important:
Hybrid festival format:
• In-person
• Online (national competitions only)

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!

The South Atlantic Film Festival was created to celebrate the multiple relationships between the ocean, its territories, and its cultures.

Submitted films are evaluated by the curatorial team based on the following criteria:

- Alignment with the thematic focus on the South Atlantic Ocean

- The film’s relationship with territory, landscape, and coastal ways of life

- Cinematic quality, considering language, narrative, and aesthetic approach

Held in Balneário Piçarras (SC), on the southern coast of Brazil, the Festival aims to bring together films that engage with the sea, coastal ways of life, and the diversity of the peoples who inhabit the South Atlantic.

In its inaugural edition, the event offers free screenings, discussion circles, and initiatives focused on accessibility and audience development.

Cinema as a social phenomenon has become one of the most innovative and enriching cultural consumptions and practices of the XX century. Clearly, cinema changes us but this transformation that film provokes is not just individual. We’re also asking for as a community. Therefore, cinema must be understood as a social phenomenon, as a cultural vehicle, as a complex device which catalyze the yearnings and portraits of a society, as a producer of subjectivities.

For the city of Chivilcoy the launching of an international film festival represents a chimerical cultural proposal. Its background is based on previous experiences that bond these individual and collective practices: shootings, film’s retrospectives, workshops, festivals and other events that take place in our community. This whole set of inputs is a key component, coupled with the suitable reaction of the local public who are eager to rejoice at the "seventh art" and to enjoy a festival as a space for exchange, dialogue and circulation of cultural goods.