Since its first edition in 1997, the dresdner schmalfilmtage have developed into a recognised forum for the international narrow-gauge scene. The unconventional film festival focuses on experimental, independent, documentary, or fictional film productions that have one thing in common: They were originally realised on motion picture cine film. In 2027 we are going on with the 28th dresdner schmalfilmtage. Stay tuned for more information and keep an eye on the submission deadlines.

Whether in the film formats 8mm (in all its variations), 9,5mm or 16mm – narrow-gauge film was of particular importance for the development of media in the 20th century. Similar to photography, it achieved an extraordinary social spread and popularity as well as an important position in the field of artistic film. The inexpensive material guarantees independent film production, while at the same time narrow film is largely spared a flood of arbitrary images, as in the video sector.

Regardless of the competition, the dresdner schmalfilmtage expressly invites everyone who is professionally or privately, artistically or film-scientifically involved with the medium to present the results of their work with us.

Awards & Prizes

28th INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION SUPER8/16
main prize, audience award, honorable mention

10th INTERNATIONAL FOUND FOOTAGE COMPETITION
main prize, audience award, honorable mention

The INTERNATIONAL FOUND FOOTAGE COMPETITION was created and the prizes for it are donated by Filmverband Sachsen e.V. (representation of the interests of filmmakers in the German Free State of Saxony).

Rules & Terms

As the submission of a film implies the acceptance of these Rules & Terms (by you and your authorised representatives), please read this document carefully.

INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION SUPER8/16
We are looking for movies, that have been shot on narrow gauge or "cine film" such as 8mm, Super 8 or 16mm. They must be less than 20 minutes and not older than 2 years.

INTERNATIONAL FOUND FOOTAGE COMPETITION
The films submitted must have been created using or containing narrow-gauge archival material. This can be film as well as sound material – there are no limits to the examination of historical narrow gauge material.


FORMATS
If possible, analogue projection at our theatre is very much appreciated, but the screening copy can also be digital.

RUNTIME
Runtime limit is 20 minutes.

PRODUCTION
Films must have been made within the last two years.

PROMOTION
With your submission you agree that we may use film clips, music or images from the submission for promotional purposes.

TRANSPORT
The costs for sending the screening copy are borne by the filmmaker. The festival bears the costs for returning the film as a parcel with Deutsche Post. Special return requests must be arranged with the festival before the film is sent.
Films that cannot be delivered by Deutsche Post will only be forwarded by the organiser upon request.

INSURANCE
The films are insured by the dresdner schmalfilmtage insurance from the time they are handed over by the transport company until they are returned to it. The transport to and from the festival by the transport company is at the risk of the sender. The relevant laws of the Federal Republic of Germany apply.
16 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Dave Johnson

    Amazing festival! It is a true honor to be programmed at this festival!

    June 2026
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  • Sara Bonaventura

    Our Quadratura got selected in the found footage section. Communication was seamless and the quality of program was very rigorous!

    March 2025
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  • LECLERT Philippe

    Rare and essential festival ! THANKS

    March 2025
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  • niccolo beretti

    Really interesting program, with a different competition every night: international found footage, contemporary super8/16mm short-films, live film scoring. Informal setting encouraging open communication between audience and filmmakers. I would describe the accomodation as "bonita". Dresdner Schmalfilmtage is a hidden gem!

    March 2025
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  • Gustave de Pavant


    Perfect programming for me! I was really very pleasantly surprised, I saw films there that I would never have been able to see elsewhere and which were exceptional. I would definitely go back next year.

    August 2024
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