The 35+ Best Film Festivals in the World [2024]

Are you a filmmaker looking for an opportunity to showcase your work and connect with film industry professionals?

If so, consider submitting your films to a film festival!

Film festivals are one of the best ways to gain recognition as a filmmaker, meet other creatives in the field, and have your hard work appreciated.

We’ve compiled this list of the 35+ Best Film Festivals in The World – from the well-known mainstays like Cannes and Sundance to lesser-known gems that offer unique opportunities for filmmakers.

As an indie filmmaker, you’re not likely to get into any of the major film festivals – but, many indie film festivals are actively looking for new talent and projects.

Read on to learn more about the best film festivals in the world (and where you might have a chance at submitting and getting accepted!).

Top Prestigious Film Festivals

As one of the world’s most prestigious and celebrated film festivals, Cannes is a unique opportunity to experience the global film industry at its most glamorous, where you can see new movies from international filmmakers, often before they hit mainstream theaters.

For filmmakers, the Cannes Film Festival is a platform like no other. It provides an opportunity to showcase their work to a global audience, network with industry professionals, potentially secure distribution deals, and win film awards. Emerging filmmakers can gain exposure, while established ones can cultivate their reputations.

The Cannes international festival is renowned for catapulting new filmmakers into the limelight, and one significant example is Quentin Tarantino.

His film, Pulp Fiction, premiered at Cannes in 1994 and walked away with the prestigious Palme d’Or, the highest prize awarded at the festival. This win catapulted Tarantino’s career, establishing him as a unique and formidable voice in cinema. Pulp Fiction subsequently became a worldwide cultural phenomenon.

Held annually in Park City, Utah, the festival is known for its friendly and laid-back atmosphere, where attendees can connect with other like-minded individuals and industry professionals.

Despite garnering significant attention and being picked up by Miramax Films, the 1992 Sundance Film Festival premiere of Quentin Tarantino’s Reservoir Dogs was a technical disaster.

The film was shown without a scope lens for the projector, which negatively impacted the visual quality, and the theater lights unexpectedly came on during a climactic scene. To compound these issues, a power outage occurred at a suspenseful moment.

Steve Buscemi, who played Mr. Pink, attended the premiere despite Tarantino’s superstition-driven advice against it, leading to Tarantino humorously blaming him for the mishaps. However, these initial setbacks didn’t prevent Reservoir Dogs from becoming one of the most revered independent films and a standout in Tarantino’s oeuvre.

The festival showcases a wide range of international films, from independent productions to big-budget Hollywood movies. Winning an award at this festival can be a major boost for a filmmaker’s career, leading to wider distribution and critical recognition.

Berlinale has a rich history of discovering new talent. One significant instance is the emergence of filmmaker Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck.

His debut feature, The Lives of Others, a gripping tale of surveillance in East Germany, premiered there in 2006, where it won the Audience Award. The film went on to receive critical acclaim worldwide, ultimately winning the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film in 2007.

Winning an award at TIFF can significantly boost a filmmaker’s career, leading to wider distribution and critical recognition.

In addition to screenings, TIFF offers a wide range of workshops, seminars, and networking events that provide attendees with resources and opportunities to connect with other filmmakers.

Notable lower-budget premieres include the Sam Mendes-directed American Beauty, the Ray Charles biopic Ray, starring Jamie Foxx, and the thrilling 127 Hours, directed by Danny Boyle. Each of these films went on to great success following their initial showings at TIFF.

The Venice Film Festival provides filmmakers with a unique opportunity to showcase their work to audiences and industry professionals alike, with the added bonus of being set in one of the most picturesque locations in the world.

The Venice Film Festival has a storied history of spotlighting fresh talent, and one prime example is Darren Aronofsky. His groundbreaking film, The Wrestler, premiered at the Venice Film Festival in 2008, winning the esteemed Golden Lion, the festival’s top prize.

This recognition marked a major turning point in Aronofsky’s career, propelling him to the forefront of contemporary cinema. His subsequent films, including Black Swan and Mother!, have continued to push boundaries and attract critical acclaim.

Usually occurring in late April to early May, it turns Tribeca into a hotbed of cinematic creativity, offering a platform for diverse voices and showcasing a variety of film genres, from narrative features to documentaries and shorts.

New and established filmmakers alike can benefit from networking opportunities, panels, and workshops where they can learn, engage, and foster connections. It’s not just about screening films but about inspiring and supporting artists in their journey.

The Tribeca Film Festival, co-founded by Robert De Niro, is known for spotlighting promising new talent. One standout example is director Alma Har’el, whose documentary Bombay Beach won the Best Documentary Feature at the 2011 festival.

The film, exploring the lives of residents in a dilapidated community on the shores of California’s Salton Sea, introduced Har’el’s unique blend of documentary and dance. The Tribeca recognition boosted Har’el’s profile and paved the way for her subsequent innovative films, such as LoveTrue and Honey Boy.

Top Established Film Festivals

The festival offers a variety of panels, workshops, and networking events focused on the art and business of screenwriting, making it a must-attend event for aspiring screenwriters. But filmmakers shouldn’t overlook the festival either.

The Austin Film Festival has served as a significant launchpad for numerous talents. A standout example is writer-director Shane Black, who was honored with the Distinguished Screenwriter Award at the festival in 2006.

At the time, Black was primarily known for writing action classics like Lethal Weapon and Last Action Hero.

The recognition at Austin Film Festival propelled his transition to directing, and the following year, he made his directorial debut with Kiss Kiss Bang Bang. The film was a critical success and marked the start of Black’s successful directing career.

For filmmakers, the BFI London Film Festival is an invaluable platform. It gives them a chance to introduce their work to a broad audience, attract the attention of global distributors, and engage in enriching conversations with peers and industry leaders.

Past notable UK premieres include Blade Runner, Alien, Amelie, and The Hurt Locker, underscoring that filmmakers worldwide recognize its importance globally.

For filmmakers, the Atlanta Film Festival offers significant exposure and growth opportunities. It’s a platform where they can premiere their work to enthusiastic audiences, get recognized by industry professionals, and potentially secure distribution deals.

The festival’s friendly and inclusive atmosphere makes it a great place to meet fellow creatives and share ideas, while the city’s vibrant arts scene provides plenty of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers. Overall, The Atlanta Film Festival provides a uniquely Southern perspective on the universal language of film.

Unlike many film festivals, the NYFF is non-competitive, focusing instead on celebrating the art of cinema and showcasing a curated selection of films that often include works by emerging talents and renowned masters.

As the longest-running competitive film festival in North America, it has been a pioneer in introducing global cinema to American and international audiences, and it continues to set the standard for film appreciation in the Midwest.

The festival prides itself on discovering and nurturing new talents, with many early works of now-renowned filmmakers having been screened at the festival.

For filmmakers, VIFF is an important platform to display their work to global audiences, critics, and industry professionals.

Its competitive sections, like the “Best Canadian Film” category, provide recognition and career advancement opportunities. VIFF places a strong emphasis on Canadian and Pacific Northwest filmmakers, making it a key event for creatives in this region.

MIFF showcases a vast selection of films from Australia and around the globe, from feature-length films and documentaries to short films and animated works, offering a unique perspective on the world of cinema.

The festival has a strong track record of championing independent and groundbreaking cinema, making it a launchpad for emerging filmmakers.

Moreover, MIFF hosts the 37ºSouth Market, Australia’s only film co-financing market in the context of a film festival, offering a perfect venue for new and emerging filmmakers to network, secure financing, and advance projects.

Typically held in March and April, HKIFF presents over 200 titles from more than 50 countries, providing a comprehensive view of world cinema with an emphasis on Chinese film culture and a keen eye for new trends and innovative directors.

The festival has been instrumental in launching the international careers of many Asian filmmakers, and it continues to support the growth of emerging talents in Asian cinema.

The festival has a strong focus on Arab cinema and provides a significant platform for regional filmmakers to gain international recognition.

Moreover, DIFF is known for its industry-focused events, such as the Dubai Film Market, which provides networking opportunities, financing, and distribution for Arab filmmakers.

Typically occurring in the fall, the festival showcases a diverse array of independent films, from local Pacific Northwest creators to international filmmakers, and offers a unique blend of networking events, workshops, and panel discussions.

For filmmakers, SIFF offers a robust platform to present their work to a diverse and discerning audience that includes critics, industry professionals, and passionate film lovers.

The festival is known for spotlighting independent and diverse filmmakers, providing them a crucial opportunity for recognition and exposure.

The festival is particularly supportive of independent filmmakers, as well as local and Canadian talent, offering them a great opportunity to gain recognition and exposure.

One of my proudest moments was winning Best Alberta Short Film at EIFF for Boneyard Racers. It was an unexpected honor to be recognized by peers in a home setting and was one of the reasons my partners and I decided to follow it up with a feature film as our next project.

The festival has a strong commitment to Canadian and Albertan cinema, providing ample opportunity for local filmmakers to gain international recognition.

Top Independent Film Festivals

The festival presents a diverse array of films, from cutting-edge indie features and documentaries to genre standouts and short films, showcasing groundbreaking cinema in a city known for its creative spirit.

The festival has a reputation for propelling indie films into the spotlight and has been the launching pad for the successful careers of many young filmmakers.

For filmmakers, Telluride offers an intimate and relaxed setting to premiere their work to an audience of discerning film lovers, critics, and industry professionals.

The festival is renowned for its tasteful selection of films and has a long history of screening films that go on to critical and awards season success.

As the UK’s largest independent film festival, it’s renowned for promoting new talent and innovative filmmaking, making it a crucial stepping stone for emerging voices in cinema.

For example, it held the UK premieres of What’s Eating Gilbert Grape, Memento, and The Blair Witch Project.

As an event known for promoting discovery, innovation, and connectivity, it offers filmmakers and screenwriters a space where they can break new ground, make connections, and find a welcoming community.

The festival is also known for its incorporation of cutting-edge technology, including VR and AR, presenting filmmakers with unique opportunities for exploring and expanding the narrative forms. And as a past screenwriting award winner, I can personally attest to the recognition it brought within the film industry.

The festival prides itself on its “by filmmakers, for filmmakers” ethos, with a programming team made up entirely of filmmakers, providing a uniquely supportive environment. This event has been pivotal in launching the careers of many noteworthy directors.

Slamdance also has a notable screenwriting competition, geared towards showcasing independent voices and non-traditional stories.

The festival is known for its commitment to supporting Canadian talent and promoting diverse voices in cinema, making it an essential stop for filmmakers looking to gain recognition within Canada and beyond.

In addition, WFF hosts a variety of industry events, from networking opportunities and masterclasses to its renowned WFF Content Summit, offering filmmakers an invaluable opportunity for professional development, learning, and connection.

Best Film Festivals for Genre Movies

For filmmakers and screenwriters, Screamfest presents a unique opportunity to premiere their work to an enthusiastic audience of genre lovers, critics, and industry professionals. Renowned for its discovery of new talent, the festival has played a crucial role in launching the careers of many successful horror filmmakers.

Winning Best Unproduced Screenplay for Dead Strays at Screamfest opened many doors for both my script and myself as a writer in general, especially in the horror and genre fields.

For filmmakers, Crimson Screen offers a unique platform to showcase their work to an audience of horror fans, industry professionals, and critics.

When my short film, Boneyard Racers, took home the award for Best Cinematography at Crimson Screen, it led to interest from distributors and a distribution deal with Shorts TV.

Winning Best Feature Screenplay for Iron Dogs was my first award for that particular script, and it immediately garnered attention from other genre festivals and fans alike.

Every September, CineFantasy showcases various genres, including fantasy, horror, and science fiction, presenting national and international films that transport audiences into extraordinary realms.

FilmQuest takes place in late September, and it offers a diverse selection of films, shorts, and music videos, along with an array of other artistic works, including screenplays, podcasts, and posters. It’s a unique celebration of genre cinema and arts!

Winning Best Unproduced Screenplay for Iron Dogs was a true highlight, and listing it as an award for the script allowed it to be taken more seriously by industry professionals, especially in the genre field.

With an additional focus on Alberta and Canadian filmmakers and films alike, it’s a great festival for non-traditional tastes and true indie fare.

Having Boneyard Racers play there was a stamp of approval from the genre community that we did something right when it came to our film.

Typically taking place from mid-July to early August, Fantasia showcases a diverse array of films from around the world, with a focus on horror, fantasy, and science fiction genres, presenting an eclectic mix of mainstream and independent cinema.

The festival is renowned for its lively and receptive audiences and has a history of launching significant genre works and filmmakers.

Typically taking place in September, CineFest Sudbury features a large selection of films in multiple genres, including features, shorts, and documentaries, and offering a vibrant celebration of cinematic storytelling.

Though a decidedly Canadian festival, it hosts films from the world over, catering primarily to genre fans of all tastes.

With multiple awards for different scripts at Hollywood Horrorfest, I can personally attest to the love the organizers and judges have for genre films and screenplays, especially in the horror, action, sci-fi, and fantasy realms.

NYC Horror Film Festival

The NYC Horror Film Festival, held annually in New York City, is a leading event in the genre film circuit that revels in the art of horror.

Usually taking place in November, the festival showcases a diverse range of horror, thriller, and sci-fi films and screenplays, presenting a mix of features, shorts, and documentaries that promise to thrill and chill.

Stiges Film Festival

The Sitges Film Festival, officially known as the Sitges International Fantastic Film Festival of Catalonia, held annually in Sitges, Spain, is one of the world’s premier events for horror and fantasy cinema.

Usually taking place in October, Sitges offers a vast range of films, from feature-length projects and shorts to documentaries, covering horror, fantasy, and science fiction genres.

Fantastic Fest

Fantastic Fest, held annually in Austin, Texas, is the largest genre film festival in the U.S., specializing in horror, fantasy, sci-fi, action and just plain fantastic movies from all around the world.

Typically held in September, Fantastic Fest showcases innovative and unique films, presenting an eclectic mix of mainstream and independent cinema that celebrates all things fantastic.

Top Short Film Festivals

PalmSprings International ShortFest

The Palm Springs International ShortFest, held annually in Palm Springs, California, is one of the largest and most prestigious short film festivals in the world.

Typically taking place in June, ShortFest showcases a diverse range of short films from around the globe.

Aspen Shortsfest

Aspen Shortsfest, held annually in Aspen, Colorado, is a highly acclaimed international short film festival that celebrates and promotes the art of short filmmaking.

The festival typically takes place in early April and showcases a wide range of short films from across the globe, spanning various genres and styles.

How Can Independent Filmmakers Apply to Film Festivals?

Applying to film festivals as an independent filmmaker involves a number of steps. Here’s a general guide on how to do it:

1. Make a Quality Film: This might seem obvious, but creating a high-quality film is the first step to getting into a film festival. It should be compelling, technically well-executed, and original.

2. Do Your Research: Not all film festivals are the same. Some focus on specific genres or formats, and others may target a particular demographic or type of filmmaking. Look for festivals that align with the theme and style of your film. Consider the festival’s prestige, audience, and potential opportunities for networking and exposure.

3. Prepare Your Submission Materials: Most festivals require several other materials for submission besides your film. This could include a synopsis, a director’s statement, bios of key cast and crew, a trailer, promotional stills, and a poster. Make sure all your materials are well-prepared and professional.

4. Use a Festival Submission Platform: Platforms like FilmFreeway (for films and scripts) or Coverfly (exclusively for scripts) can simplify the submission process by allowing you to submit your film or screenplay to multiple festivals at once. These platforms provide details about festival dates, submission deadlines, and fees.

5. Pay Attention to Deadlines: Most festivals have a series of deadlines, usually classified as early, regular, and late. Submitting your film as early as possible can save you money as fees often increase with later deadlines.

6. Ensure Your Film Meets Technical Requirements: Different festivals have different technical requirements for submissions. Ensure your film meets these, whether they relate to file format, resolution, aspect ratio, or running time.

7. Be Ready for Rejection: The competition to get into film festivals, especially the more prestigious ones, is fierce. Don’t be disheartened if your film doesn’t get accepted the first time around. Keep improving your craft and keep submitting.

8. Plan for Success: If your film is selected, be ready to make the most of the opportunity. This could mean attending the festival to network, promoting your film heavily, or preparing to leverage the festival exposure to advance your filmmaking career.

Remember, getting into a film festival is not the only measure of success. It is only one of many ways to get your film before the audience – and that’s what truly matters.

Every step of the filmmaking process helps you learn and grow as an artist and to connect with your audience. Keep creating, keep learning, and keep sharing your stories!

Final Thoughts on Film Festivals

With so many incredible film festivals worldwide, it’s easy to see why so many filmmakers choose to showcase their work in this way.

You can find amazing screenings, parties, and networking opportunities, as well as a great chance to get exposed to fresh and inspiring film styles.

Approaching each film festival with an open mind will help broaden your horizons and pave the way for creative experiences you probably couldn’t have had any other way!