The Alternativa Film Awards is a brand new non-commercial initiative that presents an alternative system for recognizing film professionals from countries that are less visible in the film industry.
AWARDS MISSION
We celebrate brave, new and unheard voices to amplify them on a global scale.
We support filmmakers who need it the most by providing resources and networking within the international community.
We aim to strengthen ties between cinema and social change.
WHAT ARE THE CRITERIA?
The Alternativa Film Awards adopt a hybrid approach, combining methods used by film and impact awards. The Awards evaluate both the artistic merits of the films and their social impact. We understand "impact" as positive change that films can bring to local communities, the film industry or society in general through addressing important social and cultural topics.
WHAT FILMS ARE ELIGIBLE FOR THE AWARDS?
We seek to support early- or mid-career authors who have yet to be widely recognized. As an international initiative, the award aims to strengthen cultural ties between various regions. In 2023 we are accepting entries from all the countries in Asia, with a particular focus on Central Asia. You can find a full list of eligible countries in the Awards Rules.
WHO CHOOSES THE WINNERS?
A shortlist of award nominees is selected by the Selection Committee that consists both of film professionals and impact selectors with the background in social activism. The come from Central Asia and other Asian countries.
The winners are chosen by an International Jury, a mix of of acclaimed film directors and producers from Asia and Europe, as well as of social activists, community leaders and NGO representatives.
The Alternativa Film Awards is a part of Alternativa Film Project. The Alternativa Film Project is a new international project to support filmmakers from developing film industries, and to make them more visible on a global scale.
The Alternativa Film Awards are presented in five categories. As we do not want to establish an hierarchy, all awards are equivalent in status, and each has a prize fund of $20,000. We also present a special prize, which does not come with a monetary reward.
In 2023 the Alternativa Film Awards ceremony will take place in December in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Directors whose films are selected for the shortlist will be invited to the ceremony, with travel and accommodation costs provided by the organizers.
SPOTLIGHT
This recognizes a film that shines light on a topic or story that would otherwise have remained below the public’s radar. The award stresses the importance of putting those who are less noticed on the screen.
FUTURE VOICE
This is awarded to a filmmaker who has the potential to contribute to change, both in the film industry and society in general. The award aims to support new talent and is given for a first or second feature.
ALTER
This recognizes a film that encourages social change. The award is given to a film that addresses critical issues (human rights, migration, wars, environment etc.) and has the potential to have an impact on society.
NATIVA
This award goes to a film that touches upon topics of national or cultural identity. The award is given for the representation of a country or a region, and for putting that place or community on the map.
SHORTS AWARD
For a short film produced in a focus region. The award aims to support local talents in their pursuit of new paths.
RESONANCE
A special prize for a film that has achieved outstanding success with an audience outside its home region. This prize is not part of the open call, and does not carry a monetary reward.