The Cinestesya Film Festival aims to bring independent cinema to the foreground while supporting emerging filmmakers from all walks of life.

Taking place since 2022 in the beloved Gato Vadio, Cinestesya has become a yearly meeting point for cinephiles, filmmakers and industry professionals. Attracting a young audience of Porto and foreigners.

Films run the gamut of genres from fiction films and documentaries to music videos and animated movies. We welcome all filmmakers whether experienced or beginners to show us their artwork and become part of our diverse screening programme.

The Cinestesya Film Festival is organised by Ramaldar Productions, a pioneer organisation that runs Film Festivals and other events showcasing and championing ideas of diversity. Through our global series of film Festivals we open the path to voices with a compelling story to share. Our main mission is to honour independent cinema and establish a network of artists eager to join forces and spread their work across all nations.

This Festival is an IMDB qualifier
Best Film
Best Experimental Film
Best Animation Film
Best Action Film
Best Horror Film
Best Drama Film
Best Music Video
Best Mistery Film
Best Silent Short
Best Black and White Short
Best Documentary
Best Humor Short
Best Fantasy Short
Best Director
Best Original Ideia
Best Poetry Short
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Cinematography
Best Sountrack
Best Artistic Short
Best Inspirational Short
Best VFX Short
Best LGBT Short
Best Edition

1. All film submissions should be made digitally.
2. All photos provided must be clearly identified. Photos may be used for any festival promotions.
3. Films may have been broadcast on Television, Cable or have had an international theatrical release prior to Cinestesya Festival
4. Non-English language produced films must have English subtitles or be dubbed in English.
5. All entrants certify that they have been given full rights to use any and all music in their films.
6. Film Producers are responsible for insurance to Cinestesya.
7.The title of the work and name of entrant must be on all mailing containers, labels, can reels and film leaders.
8. Selected film will take place in a Festival and the results will be public in our website.
8. Filmmakers or screenwriters accepted and are attending the festival are responsible for travel, lodging, and all other expenses.
9. Film prints and other film material will be handled with utmost care. However, neither the Cinestesya staff nor supporting theatre organisations staff can assume responsibility for damage or loss of the print and other film materials.
10. All stated information, eligibility and submission guidelines, terms and conditions of entry, and entry information is subject to change by the organization of the Festival, Ramaldar Productions, without notice

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • RODRIGO GALLO

    Obrigado. Sem palavras. Pela primeira vez, trabalhos meus são mostrados em Portugal

    May 2026
  • I wish the festival organizers great success and many victories, the filmmakers the creation of compelling films, and cinema-loving audiences many enjoyable screenings. <3

    March 2026
  • Cinestesya Film Festival is a remarkable platform that honours powerful voices from the grassroots. We are proud to present our film “Chal Halla Bol,” created through the collective participation of Dalit, Adivasi, and minority communities. This film represents not just cinema, but a people’s movement expressed through art. The festival’s commitment to socially relevant storytelling and inclusive representation makes it an inspiring space for independent filmmakers. We deeply appreciate their support in giving space to stories born from struggle, resistance, and hope.

    February 2026
  • Festival that isn't afraid of the dark! 🖤 Killer selection of films – TrixStarT https://www.youtube.com/@TrixStarT

    February 2026
  • Roger Rapoport

    A great festival. Well worth enterting. A good team. Enjoyed working with them.

    February 2026