9FilmFest

**9FilmFest — 13th Annual Edition**

For over a decade, 9FilmFest has stood as a distinctive platform for short-form cinema, dedicated to discovering and celebrating bold, original voices from around the world. Now entering its 13th year, the festival continues its mission while embarking on an exciting new chapter.

Founded in Bangkok in 2011, 9FilmFest emerged from the spirit of the original Bangkok Film Festival (est. 1998), the first international film festival in Thailand. From its beginnings, 9FilmFest has been committed to supporting independent filmmakers and uncovering unique, overlooked, and undiscovered short films that deserve to be seen.

**In 2026, 9FilmFest expands internationally for the first time, presenting a special edition in Bayport, New York (Long Island).**
This new setting brings the festival’s global vision to a fresh audience, creating a bridge between East and West while maintaining the festival’s original spirit and curatorial identity.

## 🌍 **A Festival for Discovery**

9FilmFest welcomes submissions from all genres and styles, embracing narrative, documentary, animation, experimental, and hybrid forms. The festival remains committed to championing:

* emerging filmmakers
* unconventional storytelling
* bold artistic voices
* overlooked cinematic works

Each submitted film is **viewed in full**, honoring the time, effort, and vision of every filmmaker.

## 🎯 **The “Lucky 9” Selection**

At the heart of 9FilmFest is its unique tradition:

👉 **Only 9 films are selected as official finalists**

This reflects the cultural significance of the number 9 in Thailand and ensures a highly curated, intimate, and meaningful festival experience.

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## 🏆 **Awards & Recognition**

Selected films compete across a range of categories, including:

* Best Film
* Best Director
* Best Script
* Best Cinematography
* Best Animation
* Best Experimental Film
* Best Actress
* Best Humanity Film

Winners receive official 9FilmFest laurels and recognition for their creative achievements.

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## 🎥 **A Unique Festival Experience**

The 13th edition will present its selected films in an intimate screening environment in BluePoint, New York, continuing the festival’s tradition of creating a close connection between filmmakers and audiences.

9FilmFest is not a high-volume festival — it is a **carefully curated showcase**, where every selected film receives focused attention and appreciation.

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## 🤝 **Community & Connection**

Beyond screenings, 9FilmFest fosters a collaborative and supportive environment where filmmakers can:

* connect with fellow artists
* engage with audiences
* build lasting creative relationships

Q&A sessions and informal discussions are an essential part of the experience.

## 🌟 **Our Mission**

9FilmFest exists to:

* support filmmakers
* celebrate creativity
* provide a platform for discovery
* give overlooked films the attention they deserve

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## 🎬 **Submission Information**

* Films must be **40 minutes or under**
* Films must be completed after **January 1, 2020**
* All genres and styles are accepted

Submissions are handled through FilmFreeway. Please review full rules and regulations for details.

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## ✨ **A New Chapter**

After 12 successful years in Bangkok, 9FilmFest enters a new phase — bringing its global community, curatorial vision, and passion for independent cinema to new audiences.

We invite filmmakers and audiences alike to be part of this exciting evolution.