As in previous years, we are collaborating with the submission platform www.shortfilmdepot.com. All details about the Call for Entry can be found on our website and in the regulations. Deadline for submissions is December 01, 2025.

We look forward to watching the diverse stories and topics, artistic approaches and individual aesthetics. It would be wonderful if you could help us spread the word — feel free to forward this Call for Entry, and share it on Facebook and Instagram!

If you have any questions about the submission process, don’t hesitate to reach out via email or phone at 0049 351-8294724.

Thanks for your support!

All the best from Dresden

Marta Greszta

Coordination / Cooperation

38. FILMFEST DRESDEN 2026

INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL

14.–19. APRIL 2026

FILMFEST DRESDEN is an independent short film festival with an International, National and Central German Competition as well as various special programmes with a variety of thematic and country focuses. FILMFEST DRESDEN is one of the most highly endowed short film festivals in Europe and sees itself as a podium to present the potential and diversity of current international short film productions. The films in the competitions are awarded by various juries, which are newly appointed by the festival every year.

The following film productions are eligible for submission to the competitions:

• Short fiction or animated film (incl. hybrid forms such as AnimaDoc, experimental or documentary fiction)

• Length: 30 minutes maximum (including credits) / 40 minutes for Central German Competition

• No premiere required

• Produced after 31 December 2023

Strong films wanted > we award the following thematic special awards:

• „Fully Political“ - Short Film Award for Democratic Culture (endowed with € 3.000)

• LUCA Film Award for GenderEquality (endowed with € 2.000)

To be considered for the special programmes, submissions must meet the following requirements:

• Animation, short fiction, experimental or documentary film

• Length: 30 minutes maximum (including credits)

• Produced after 31 December 2023

Films can be submitted from 1 September to 1 December 2025 via our submission platform www.shortfilmdepot.com

More information: www.filmfest-dresden.de/en/professionals/film-submission