Cine International Film Festival (CIFF) 2026 expands its global reach as we take the festival fully international, inviting filmmakers from around the world to showcase their work in one of the world’s great cultural capitals - London.

Following the hugely successful 2025 edition, which brought together filmmakers, industry professionals and audiences for packed screenings, engaging Q&As and vibrant networking events, CIFF 2026 builds on that momentum by opening our doors even wider to global voices.

Our mission is to discover and champion bold, independent filmmaking from across the world, giving filmmakers the opportunity to present their work to London audiences and international industry guests.

The festival celebrates original storytelling across narrative, documentary, short and experimental cinema, with a particular focus on films that push creative boundaries and engage with contemporary culture. Through a curated programme of screenings, panels and networking events, CIFF aims not only to showcase exceptional films, but to create meaningful connections between filmmakers, producers, distributors and the wider film industry.

We welcome submissions from both emerging and established filmmakers. Whether you are presenting a powerful debut, an inventive short film, or a distinctive feature, CIFF provides a supportive and high-profile platform for your work.

Selected films will screen in London in front of audiences and industry professionals, with opportunities for awards, press exposure and potential distribution conversations.

At CIFF, we believe great cinema deserves to be seen — and we are proud to bring outstanding films from around the world to the global stage in London. 🎬

Awards & Prizes

FEATURE LENGTH FILMS / SHORT FILMS
(Entry qualifies you to be in the running for any of the below awards)
Best Picture
Best Director
Best Actor / Actress
Best Cinematography
Best International Film
Dreamtown Innovation Award
Golden Sanctum Award

THE COMMONWEALTH SHORT FILM AWARD
The Commonwealth Short Film Award is a new global initiative celebrating the very best in short filmmaking from across the Commonwealth. Spanning 56 member states, the Award will spotlight bold, original storytelling featured in the dedicated Commonwealth Short Film Showcase at CIFF this year.

TEENAGE CANCER TRUST AWARD
The Teenage Cancer Trust Award for Outstanding Achievements in Music / Score and Culture

Rules & Terms

Cine International Film Festival
Rules & Terms

1. Eligibility
Cine International Film Festival (CIFF) accepts submissions from filmmakers worldwide. Films must have been completed within the last 3 years prior to the festival date. All genres and styles are welcome including narrative, documentary, animation and experimental work.

2. Submission Formats
All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway. Films should be submitted via an online screener (Vimeo, YouTube, or FilmFreeway upload).

If selected, filmmakers must provide a high-quality screening file (DCP or high-resolution digital file) by the deadline specified by the festival.

3. Language Requirements
Films not in English must include English subtitles. Subtitles must be clear and legible for festival screening.

4. Premiere Status
Premiere status is not required, however it may be considered when programming certain sections of the festival.

5. Categories
CIFF accepts submissions in the following categories:

* Feature Films
* Short Films
* Documentary Features
* Documentary Shorts
* Animation
* Experimental / Art Film
* Student Film

Additional special categories may be announced each year.

6. Selection Process
All films are reviewed by the festival’s selection committee and programming team. Selected films will be notified via FilmFreeway.

The festival reserves the right to determine the screening category for each selected film.

All decisions of the festival selection committee are final.

7. Screening & Exhibition
Selected films will be screened during the Cine International Film Festival in London as part of the official programme.

The festival may also showcase selected films within its online festival platform or partner platforms where applicable behind a paywall.

8. Promotional Use
By submitting a film, the filmmaker grants CIFF permission to use:

* film stills
* trailers
* excerpts (up to 60 seconds)

for promotional purposes including press, social media, website and festival marketing.

Full films will not be shared publicly without the filmmaker’s permission.

9. Entry Fees
Submission fees are non-refundable.

The festival reserves the right to offer waivers or discounts at its discretion.

10. Rights & Clearances
The filmmaker confirms that they have secured all necessary rights and permissions for music, images, performances and any copyrighted material contained in the film.

CIFF is not responsible for any copyright violations.

11. Festival Discretion
CIFF reserves the right to make changes to the programme, screening schedule or festival format if required. The festival also reserves the right to decline or remove a film if necessary due to legal or eligibility issues.

12. Agreement
By submitting to Cine International Film Festival, the applicant acknowledges that they have read, understood and agreed to all festival rules and terms.