Bradford International Film Festival (BRADIFF) returns in October 2026.

Based in the world’s first UNESCO City of Film, BRADIFF showcases short films from Bradford-based, UK, and international filmmakers, celebrating bold storytelling and distinctive creative voices. We have recently joined the AIFF and follow their charter including transparent selection procedures and low submission fees.

BRADIFF is open to all filmmakers and all genres, with eligible films under 15 minutes in length. While the festival welcomes submissions from everyone, our dedicated strand for 2026 highlights films by female and non-binary filmmakers, inclusive of trans women. Films by filmmakers of all genders will continue to be considered across the full programme and awards.

Submission entry is free for Bradford-based filmmakers. Although there is no separate local category this year, Bradford filmmakers are strongly encouraged to submit and will be considered alongside all other entries.

In addition to screenings, BRADIFF will host a programme of industry talks, events, and practical workshops throughout the festival, culminating in the BRADIFF Awards Ceremony celebrating outstanding short filmmaking.

We’re looking for original, ambitious short films that engage audiences and reflect the diversity of contemporary cinema.

Awards & Prizes

Awards will be given for the following categories:

Best Narrative Short Film
Best International Short Film
Best Short Documentary
Best Short Animation
Best Student Film
Best Film by a Female or Non-Binary Filmmaker

Rules & Terms

This year, we continue our commitment to championing diverse voices in cinema, with a special spotlight on Female or Non-Binary Filmmakers.

1. For our Female or Non-Binary Filmmaker category, we are looking for films where either the Producer, Director or Writer identify as female or non-binary. If you enter into this category, you will also be considered for any other categories that you're eligible for, e.g. Best Narrative Short.

We also have some simple rules to follow - please see individual categories for category-specific rules.

1. Films must be less than 15 minutes in length, including credits.

2. All rights to the film must be owned by the filmmakers and cleared (Please check your music! And your archive footage!)

3. If your film is not in the English language, English subtitles will be required.

4. Films must have been completed after January 2025 and must NOT be available to watch online.

5. Films that do not follow our rules and terms will not be watched or considered for the festival, so please ensure that you adhere to the guidelines before submitting.

6. We have a zero policy on rude or threatening emails from filmmakers regarding the outcome of their submission. Our programmer’s decision is final.

7. We are unable to provide travel and accommodation funding for selected filmmakers.

8. All films submitted must be completed. We do not accept works in progress. We recommend screeners to be at least 1080p and include subtitles.

9. All films must be submitted via FilmFreeway.

10. Please note that we are unable to offer screening or licensing fees for films selected for the festival. By submitting your film, you acknowledge and accept this as part of our terms.

11. We do not accept films that use generative AI in the creation of their final submitted work, including AI-generated video, imagery, animation, or voice performances. Submissions found to contain generative AI content may be disqualified at the festival’s discretion.

Entry into one category will allow the film to be considered in any other category that it is suitable for. There is no requirement to enter more than one category.

Festival directors reserve the right to make exceptions to the festival rules at their sole discretion.
15 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Alan Hamwan

    Thank you, BIFF team. Being part of such a fantastic film festival, a lovely experience, with friendly communication and promptness, was an honour. Well-organised, also smooth technical handling was truly impressive. I hope that the film festival will constantly develop.

    December 2025
    Helpful
  • Daniel England

    An excellent festival, very well run with a great selection of films.
    Felt very welcome and communication from the festival throughout was excellent.
    Equally enjoyed the industry day which included friendly networking and insightful talks. Thanks!

    November 2025
    Helpful
  • Sunny Bahia

    Great festival, well run and good communication throughout. A good mix of events throughout the 6 days, highly recommend.

    November 2025
    Helpful
  • Toby Milnes

    I am so pleased to have had Sister Apostate feature in Bradford's absolutely stacked schedule! It is a well-organised, fun event that celebrates the filmmakers and their artistic expression. The networking, hospitality, and communication is top notch and we'd love to return again!

    November 2025
    Helpful
  • Melle Windig

    Thank you for hosting our short student stop motion animation Cell Buddies and giving us the opportunity to share it with your audience. Unfortunately we could not attend but we followed the festival on social media and ik looked great!

    November 2025
    Helpful