The Experimental Film Fest 2026

The Experimental Film Fest features Avant-Garde and Experimental films in any sub-genre. We want the unusual, the macabre, the offbeat, the beautiful, the ugly, and the truly experimental film. Explore the medium in ways that are not only unconventional but entertaining. Remember that you want an audience for your films, so be sensitive to the eyes, ears, and emotions of those who will experience your work.

Student films are judged with all other films for awards, but are also judged separately for Best Student Film. This award is meant to encourage young filmmakers to participate in film festivals and to bring new talent to the screen for audiences. The submission fee for Student Films is always $10 ($9 Gold) USD.

***WE DO NOT OFFER FEE WAIVERS***

Be sure to listen to The Experimental Film Podcast and arrange to be a guest.

The awards carry the following prizes:

Festival Winner - $100
Critic's Choice - $75
Audience Favorite - $75
Best Student Film - $50
Best Animation - $50

2026 FESTIVAL DATE IS SEPTEMBER 19, 2026

Bank of the Arts 317 Middle St, New Bern, NC 28560

Awards & Prizes

2025 Awards:

Festival Winner - Exchange - Natalie Bark - UK

Critic's Choice - MIST - Xixi Catherine Li - US

Best Animation - Straight ahead 01: Running Away - Becalelis Brodskis - UK

Best AI Film - fragmented reality - Ingmar Koch - Portugal

Best Student Film - A Train Arrives - Raphael Heinisch - Germany

Audience Favorite - The World Said No - Jennie Thwing - US

Rules & Terms

Films must be downloadable via FilmFreeway. If your film is password protected, please provide the password with your submission.

*** If your film is selected for screening at the festival, you must provide a short (1-2 minute) video that introduces you and your film to the audience. This introductory film is required for screening at the festival. ***

You may submit your film regardless of the creation date as long as it is your work.

This year, there is a 15-minute time limit for films.
21 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Laura Lewis-Barr

    Sorry I couldn't be there but grateful for the communication and the chance to share a filmmaker video intro.

    September 2025
    Helpful
  • ingmar koch

    thank you so much for the award and the support!
    massive greetinx from southern europe
    dr walker (i. koch)

    September 2025
    Helpful
  • Hiroya Sakurai

    Important festival of experimental cinema.

    October 2024
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  • Cyane Tornatzky

    Warm and welcoming, I was extremely happy to get the chance to paricipate.

    October 2024
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  • Thor Sivertsen

    So happy to be selected with my film Coda!

    October 2024
    Helpful