Imo International Film Festival (ImoIFF) is a platform for films and filmmakers around the world that inspires the love for film, cinema, and the arts; and supports independent filmmakers. The festival is created to promote the local film industry both locally and internationally and to bring all the industry stakeholders together in a more focused and structured environment.

At ImoIFF, filmmakers are going to be seen, supported, and celebrated. The festival contributes towards the development of films in Imo State by showcasing the best film on the continent and worldwide. The goal of the festival is not only to celebrate arts but also to create an incubation space to encourage and grow young people in film and art, especially in the State. They do this by establishing systems through which continuing film education is sustained.

ImoIFF aspires to bridge the gap between Imo State filmmakers, Cinemas and the World, providing the best global film knowledge, skill acquisition, training, and global film distribution opportunities for independent and aspiring filmmakers. The festival is run by young people, for young people, and aims to celebrate the next generation of Film and TV talent and increase access for under-represented people to careers in the media. The festival creates a lucrative industry economically and socially to preserve our national values through film.

The festival also boasts a distinguished jury panel comprising luminaries from the global film community, including Kayode Kasum, Linda Obasi, Goodnews Erico, Ozioma Nwughalu, and Art Arutyunyan.

ImoIFF’s advisory board includes Dr. Victor Okhai, Queen B. Ebigieson, Okey Ogunjiofor, Dr. Chika Onu, Chris Odeh, Amayo Uzo Phillip, Osita Iheme, Dr. Gloria Ernest Samuel, Dr. Ken Obiakor, and Obinna Okerekeocha

Awards & Prizes

Best Short Film
Best Documentary
Best Feature
Best International Film
Best Actor
Best Actor (female)
Best Film Student
Achievement in Directing
Achievement in Editing
Achievement in Cinematography
Achievement in Screenplay
Achievement in Sound Design

Rules & Terms

CRITERIA FOR SUBMISSION OF FILMS
All films submitted should comply with the following;
Submission Requirements
The film(s) for submission for festival should have been produced after 2 years.
By virtue of submission of your film through FilmFreeway to Imo International Film Festival, it will be consent to the festival terms and conditions as laid out in this information pack.
All feature films MUST submit a list with contacts of their main Cast and Crew members from the production.

Eligibility of Films
To be eligible for consideration, all films must meet the following requirements:
Short films (up to 30mins or less)
Feature-length films (60+ min.)
Documentary films (5+ min-60mins)
Student films

Other Regulations
Participation in the festival implies acceptance of the rules and regulations by filmmakers and producers.
All selected films maybe screened or broadcasted in the selected media outlets on the discretion of the Festival organizing committee.
Films that were previously submitted to other festivals other than Imo International Film Festival are acceptable into the submission of Imo International Film Festival.
The film(s) submitted in their INDIGENOUS LANGUAGE should have ENGLISH subtitles.
Winners outside Nigeria wishing to receive their award plaque by mail must cover shipping and handling costs.

FILM SUBMISSION FORMATS
DELIVERY FORMAT
Entries are accepted in the following formats:

Internet Link (URL)
You can submit your film by sending a downloadable link via Vimeo, YouTube, Drop Box or WeTransfer or via FilmFreeway

If at any time you change the URL and/or password it is your responsibility to inform us immediately.
With this option, you do not need to send in a physical copy of your film(s).

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

Video Format Requirements:
Accepted File formats (endings): .mp4/.m4v/DCP
Recommended codecs: MJPEG, Apple ProsRes, H264
Resolution: HD material 1920x1080px and above

Audio Format Requirements:
48 kHz sound PCM (only uncompressed)
MP3
AAC

File Specifications:
We only accept multiplexed files (i.e. with audio, video, and subtitles in a single file). Your film file should not exceed 4GB.
You can upload a film with a resolution of up to 1920 x 1080 pixels (HD), as long as it does not exceed 4GB.

a) When you send in your film, it’s a must to provide a digital copy for archiving, screening and adjudication purposes.

b) You are required to thoroughly test your film before submission for the Festival.

The following shall not be accepted at the Festival:
• Trailers as substitute for your film for selection purposes;
• Work-in-progress.

Return of Materials
Any material submitted will not be returned but will instead be stored in the Imo International Film Festival Archives

Selection of Films
Requirements If Your Film is selected

Publicity Materials
You will be required and must submit publicity materials including, but not limited to: filmmaker biography, trailers, images, posters, clips and an electronic press kit. All publicity materials are to be sent at the sender’s expense by the deadlines provided at the time of selection.

Scheduling
The scheduling and the timetabling of both public screenings and press screenings of films are at the sole discretion of the festival and their decision is final and irrevocable. The date(s), time(s) and location(s) of exhibitions of the films shall be at the discretion of the Festival organizers.

1) NATIONAL/LOCAL FILMS
-Documentaries
-Short Films
-Student Films (Undergraduate and Below)
-Feature Films
-TV series
-Animations

INTERNATIONAL FEATURE FILM WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES
LOCAL FILMS WITH ENGLISH SUBTITLES IF NOT IN ENGLISH
7 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Krishnateja Prp

    It's been very happy my short film manoranjan was selected but pls share official selection list in social media pages some people are think it's a fake film festival as a participant my humble request

    November 2023
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  • Stefano Pelleriti

    Very happy for the selection. Thank you!

    October 2023
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    Response from festival:

    We are truly honored to receive your heartfelt message. Your words fill us with joy and inspire us to continue our mission of celebrating and supporting talented filmmakers like yourself.

  • Abeid Nasibu (mwenenu binnassib)

    It is an honor to be a part of this great and wonderful Imo International Film Festival. Many thanks to judges and to the festival team for their decision. 

    October 2023
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you Abeid, for such kind words. They mean a lot to the Imo International Film Festival Team. We can wait to see you

  • Noel Molloy

    Thank you for selecting DUKE BOX EGLINTON

    October 2023
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    Response from festival:

    It’s our privilege to have your film, “DUKE BOX EGLINTON,” as part of the Imo International Film Festival. Your work showcases creativity, dedication, and a commitment to excellence that we greatly value. Your presence enriches our festival and the world of cinema.

  • German Ramos

    I want to thank the Imo International Film Festival for the extraordinary experience.

    The IMO festival has been very kind, they have sent correspondence about the final selection classification steps with a cordial and very respectful touch.

    It was an honor for me to have participated in such a beautiful festival, which more than a competition, is an opportunity for art and culture encounters.
    Thank you

    October 2023
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    Response from festival:

    We deeply appreciate your recognition of our judges and the festival team. Their meticulous efforts are geared towards recognizing exceptional talent and providing a platform for filmmakers to shine. Your acknowledgment of our communication and feedback warms our hearts, as we strive to offer a positive and constructive experience for all participants.

    Your film’s inclusion in our festival is a testament to your talent and hard work. We are thrilled that the ImoIFF could contribute to your courage and motivation for future projects. Your commitment to the art of filmmaking is truly admirable.

    We also wish to express our gratitude for your warm wishes and thanks. Your support means a lot to us and reinforces our dedication to promoting the art of film.