Our Mission
We acclaim emerging directors, screenwriters and filmmakers from all over the world and amplify their work by bringing together a diverse audience to experience and reflect on it, and engage in further dialogue.
Our community exists at the intersection of a broader, more inclusive, cinematic gaze and the emergence of truly exceptional cinema.
If films are the content, Alfama is the form that sets the tone for the experiences we create. An architectural somatisation of intimacy, this is the scene in which we invite your films to make their appearance.
Our Story
in 2009 as an informal project to showcase independent cinema in the recondite alleys of Alfama, projected against its iconic stone walls.
In the following years, Cinalfama matured and became a competitive event of an international character, as well as a cultural reference in Lisbon.
The nature of the events has changed over the years, but the atmosphere, films and venues remain as intimate as they have always been.
Our Home
Founded in 1914, Grupo Sportivo Adicense is one of the oldest and most authentic remaining symbols of Alfama’s true soul.
World famous fado singers started their careers waiting tables at this historical institution – one that still stands in the face of constant change and mischaracterisation of the neighbourhood’s urban landscape.
Competition & Awards
Up-and-coming directors, screenwriters and filmmakers from all over the world submit their work ahead of each of our seasonal screening and awards editions, at which we present our jury’s final selection.
Categories
Best Medium or Feature Film
Best Short Film
Best Debut Film
Best Director
Best Actor/ Actress
Best Screenplay
We invite the winning directors, screenwriters and music supervisors or composers to present their work in the heart of Lisbon's old town, Alfama.
The selected, nominated and awarded films promotional material is shared on our website and on our social media platforms.
All winners will receive a laurel and a certificate.
Winning films will be promoted at our partner festivals.
Access to ECU Paris International Festival. Winners will have a privileged selection viewing at ÉCU. Several Cinalfama awarded films were selected and awarded at ÉCU as well.
The winners will have the opportunity to have a one to one mentor session with members of our renowned jury, Leonor Teles and Pedro Cabeleira.