The Locarno International Film Awards is an emerging film festival that champions independent cinema, offering a unique platform for global filmmakers to showcase their work and engage in meaningful dialogue. While still relatively new compared to more established festivals, its ambition is clear: to become a prominent name in the international film festival circuit, recognized for its distinctive vision and commitment to innovation.

Unlike many mainstream festivals, the Locarno International Film Awards prioritizes creative freedom and experimental filmmaking. It encourages filmmakers to break away from traditional commercial constraints, allowing them to explore avant-garde, niche, and thought-provoking film styles. Whether it’s a documentary, narrative feature, or short film, the festival provides a space where unconventional storytelling and fresh cinematic perspectives can shine.

This festival is more than just a platform for showcasing films—it's a vibrant hub for filmmakers to engage in deep conversations and intellectual exchanges. Participants will have opportunities to attend workshops, panel discussions, and networking events, where they can share creative experiences, discuss emerging trends, and explore the future of cinema. These interactions offer filmmakers a chance to expand their creative horizons, gain valuable insights, and forge collaborations that can propel their work to new heights.

Another unique aspect of the Locarno International Film Awards is its commitment to cultural diversity and inclusivity. The festival actively supports filmmakers from emerging film markets around the world, providing them with a global stage to present their voices and cultural perspectives. By fostering cross-cultural dialogue, it aims to build connections that can lead to international collaborations, strengthening the global film community.

More than just a film festival, the Locarno International Film Awards is a journey of discovery, creativity, and collaboration. For every filmmaker involved, it’s a place where new ideas are nurtured, and where individual projects are elevated through the collective energy of a global community of like-minded artists. As it grows, the festival is poised to become an important cultural landmark in the film industry, attracting filmmakers, audiences, and industry leaders from around the world.

Awards & Prizes

Best Picture
Recognizing the most outstanding film of the year for its story, production, and emotional impact.

Best Director
Honoring the filmmaker with exceptional creative vision and control over the film's artistic elements.

Best Screenplay
Awarded to the screenplay that demonstrates exceptional storytelling and narrative depth.

Best Cinematography
Celebrating excellence in visual storytelling and camera work.

Best Editing
Recognizing skillful editing that enhances the film's pacing, structure, and emotional impact.

Best Original Score
Awarded for outstanding music composition that complements and elevates the film's themes.

Best Actor
Honoring the most compelling and powerful performance by a male actor.

Best Actress
Recognizing the most impactful and exceptional performance by a female actor.

Best New Talent
Celebrating a breakout performance or directorial debut by a promising newcomer.

Best Documentary
Awarded to a non-fiction film that delivers impactful storytelling and insightful perspectives.

Best Short Film
Recognizing creativity and excellence in short-form storytelling.

Audience Choice Award
Chosen by the audience, this award honors the most popular film of the festival.

Rules & Terms

Eligibility

1.Film Categories: Submissions are accepted in the following categories:
Short Films: Films with a duration of less than 45 minutes.
Feature Films: Films with a duration of 45 minutes or more.

2.Production Year: Films must have been completed within the last two years (e.g., for the 2025 festival, films must have been completed in 2023 or later).

3.Premiere Status: Preference will be given to films that are being presented for the first time, though regional or national premieres may also be accepted based on the festival's selection criteria.

Submission Requirements

1.Film Format: Films should be submitted in high-quality digital formats such as MP4, MOV, or similar. Submissions in other formats may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

2.Subtitles: Films not in English must be submitted with English subtitles. Films without subtitles will not be considered.

Selection Criteria
The Locarno International Film Awards will select films based on the following key criteria:

1.Creative Vision: The festival is looking for films that demonstrate artistic risk-taking, innovative storytelling, and a strong personal vision. Preference will be given to films that challenge traditional cinematic conventions and present original, thought-provoking narratives.

2.Cultural Relevance: The festival encourages films that explore diverse cultural experiences and perspectives. Films with themes that reflect underrepresented voices or global issues, and those created by filmmakers from emerging or lesser-represented regions, will be highly valued.

3.Technical Excellence: While the festival places a primary focus on creativity and originality, the technical quality of the films will also be taken into account, including direction, cinematography, sound design, and editing.

Rights and Permissions

By submitting a film to the Locarno International Film Awards, filmmakers confirm that they hold all necessary rights to the content, including intellectual property rights, music, and any other materials used in the film. The filmmaker grants the festival permission to use clips, stills, and promotional materials from the film for marketing and promotional purposes related to the event.

Participation Expectations

Selected filmmakers are encouraged to engage in the festival's community-building and networking activities, including panel discussions, workshops, and informal gatherings. The festival aims to foster a collaborative environment where filmmakers can exchange ideas, discuss the future of cinema, and explore potential creative collaborations.