BAARIA FILM FESTIVAL is an international film festival focused on island cinematography of the world, showing the cultural diversity of island territories through cinema. This event is unique in its theme, in Italy, being the first film festival in the country that programs exclusively island cinema.
A great deal of space, of course, is devoted to Sicily, comparing it to other island territories, always using cinema as a means to explore and reveal the beauty and deep identity of the region.

The only competitive section is "Arcipelaghi," dedicated to national and international feature films. Other films may be included in the section out of competition.
Awards will include a "Best Feature Film" prize and a "Best Performer" award (male or female), alongside an Audience Award chosen by high school students.
A "Sicilian ad honorem" award will be presented by the BFF to a non-Sicilian director or actor who has excelled in a Sicilian-themed film.
Additional special awards may be granted at the jury's discretion for "Arcipelaghi" or other sections by the Artistic Direction.

INTRODUCTION

1. Purpose of the Festival
The BAARIA FILM FESTIVAL (BFF) aims to promote cinematic storytelling focused on the insular condition, both nationally and internationally, with a special emphasis on Sicily. It provides a platform for both emerging and established filmmakers. Additionally, it seeks to foster intercultural dialogue, encourage reflection on ecological themes, and enhance the cultural and scenic heritage of Sicily, using cinema as a medium for storytelling, exploration, and artistic expression.
2. Participation Requirements
a. Film Eligibility
Only feature-length and short films made in Sicily or other islands worldwide, or addressing themes related to insularity, are eligible.
All films must have been completed after 2021, except for restored works, historical tributes, and other audiovisuals tied to past eras or figures being honored.
Films of any genre (e.g., drama, comedy, documentary) are accepted; for animation, only feature-length films are eligible.
Works must be of good technical and expressive quality.
b. Film Duration
Unless exceptions are made due to intrinsic value, feature films must have a minimum runtime of 75 minutes, while short films must not exceed 30 minutes.
c. Language and Subtitles
Films will be presented in their original language.
If the original language is not Italian, the film must include Italian subtitles.
3. Submission
a. Submission Process
Submissions must be made online via the official BFF website or platforms listed on the site.
The submission deadline is April 30, 2025.
The official BFF website is www.baariafilmfestival.com.
b. Required Documentation
Completed submission form.
Link to the full film (preferably on streaming platforms protected by a password).
Film synopsis, director’s biography, and filmography (in Italian for Italian films and in English for foreign films). If an Italian film is selected, an English synopsis must also be provided.
Production stills, poster, and trailer.
c. Submission Fees
Participation is free for all entries.
4. Selection
a. Selection Committee
The BFF Artistic Direction will review submitted works and select those to be included in the festival program, with the option to invite other works that meet the thematic and quality criteria, even if not submitted.
b. Notification of Selection
Selection results will be communicated via email by May 2025. If participants do not receive a response by May 31, the submitted film will be considered not accepted.
5. Festival Program
a. Structure
The BFF program will feature:
A main competitive international feature film section, "Arcipelaghi." (“Archipelagos”)
An Italian short film showcase, "Gli atolli." (“The atolls”)
A varied program for open-air screenings, "Serate in villa," (“Evenings in the Villa” )featuring popular films, tributes, and a repeat screening of the "Best Film" from "Arcipelaghi" as chosen by the official jury.
b. Screenings
Selected films will be shown in a dedicated cinema during the day and/or as part of open-air evening screenings.
Each film will have at least one public screening.
Screenings will be free of charge; some may be reserved for invitees only.
c. Side Events
In addition to film screenings, the program will include:
Masterclasses and workshops: Sessions led by renowned directors, screenwriters, and actors sharing their experiences and techniques, focusing on the unique aspects of insular cinema production.
Panel discussions: Roundtables bringing together industry experts and scholars to discuss relevant topics such as cultural identity, sustainability, and the role of cinema in preserving island traditions.
Cultural events: Concerts, artistic performances, book presentations, and photography exhibitions reflecting Sicilian and island culture, fostering an atmosphere of celebration and cultural exchange.
Live interviews with guests: Audiences can attend close-up interviews with directors, actors, and other festival guests.
6. Awards and Jury
The BFF concludes with an awards ceremony recognizing the best films and emerging talents in insular cinema, with dedicated categories for Sicily and other islands.
a. Awards
The only competitive section is "Arcipelaghi," dedicated to international feature films. Only non-Italian films are eligible for awards; Italian films may be included in the section but only out of competition.
Awards will include a "Best Feature Film" prize and a "Best Performer" award (male or female), alongside an Audience Award chosen by high school students.
A "Sicilian ad honorem" award will be presented by the BFF to a non-Sicilian director or actor who has excelled in a Sicilian-themed film.
Additional special awards may be granted at the jury's discretion for "Arcipelaghi" or other sections by the Artistic Direction.
b. Jury
The "Arcipelaghi" jury will consist of five established professionals in the film industry, including filmmakers and critics.
The Audience Award jury will be made up of high school students from Bagheria, coordinated by a tutor.
Jury decisions are final.
7. Rights and Responsibilities
a. Screening Rights
Participants guarantee they hold all necessary rights for the screening of their film during the BFF.
b. Promotion
Participants authorize the use of film excerpts (up to 3 minutes) and promotional materials for BFF promotion.
c. Liability
The BFF is not responsible for any loss or damage to film copies submitted for selection and screening.
8. Acceptance of Regulations
Participation in the BFF implies full acceptance of these regulations.
The BFF Direction reserves the right to make modifications for cultural, organizational, or promotional reasons, provided the purpose in Article 1 is not altered.
Any disputes will be resolved under Italian law in the Palermo Court jurisdiction.
9. Contacts
For further information, contact: info@baariafilmfestival.com