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ESTE FILM Festival 2026
ESTE FILM Festival is an international film festival dedicated to contemporary cinema, emerging voices, and meaningful dialogue between filmmakers and audiences. Taking place in the historic city of Sibiu, the festival transforms cinemas and alternative venues into meeting points for bold stories, fresh perspectives, and cinematic discovery.
In 2026, ESTE FILM Festival celebrates 10 years of activity, strengthening its mission to support new talent and showcase films that challenge, inspire, and resonate beyond borders.
Why submit to ESTE FILM Festival?
• International visibility for your film in a curated festival context
• Carefully selected programs with a strong focus on author-driven cinema
• Q&A sessions, discussions, and audience engagement with filmmakers
• A warm, filmmaker-friendly atmosphere and an active cinephile community
• Screenings in top cultural venues in Sibiu, one of Romania’s most vibrant cultural cities
ESTE FILM Festival is more than a screening opportunity — it is a place where films are seen, discussed, and remembered.
nternational Student Short Film Competition 2026
This competition is dedicated to student filmmakers from around the world, offering a platform for short fiction films produced during film, visual arts, or media studies. The section highlights new voices and emerging cinematic language.
National Short Film Competition 2026
The National Short Film Competition showcases the diversity and creativity of contemporary Romanian cinema, focusing on short fiction films by emerging and established Romanian filmmakers.
The Audience Award is granted to one short film selected from all films screened in both competitions.
More than screenings
Beyond films, the festival offers dynamic discussions, panels, workshops, and networking opportunities through initiatives like LINE-UP — an international academy and gathering for festival professionals and cultural managers.
Expect inspiring Q&A’s with filmmakers, engaging debates around the stories on screen, live events, concerts, and community activities. Families and young movie lovers join in too — with dedicated programs for kids and teens that make cinema an adventure for all ages.
Submit your film and be part of ESTE FILM Festival 2026 — a festival that believes in cinema as a shared experience and in the power of new voices to shape its future.
Awards & Prizes
- Best International Student Short Film Award: €2,500*
- Best Romanian Short Film Award: €2,500
- Audience Award: €500**
*The festival covers the taxes required by Romanian law but does not assume responsibility for any additional taxes imposed by the winner’s country of residence.
**The Audience Award is granted to one short film selected from all films screened in both competitions.
No special mentions or additional awards will be granted within the competitions.
More information & Submission here