+ CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS OPEN FIFTH EDITION +

Join us for the fifth Ernest Film Festival, on 3rd July 2026 set to take place in the heart of Schaerbeek, Brussels. This edition will feature an array of exceptional short animations and short films carefully selected from around the globe. Check our Instagram for more details on the full programme of shorts!

Come experience the magic of outdoor cinema under the open sky of the garden of Maison des Arts in Schaerbeek, connect with your community and discover new cinematographic talents.

All movies are screened in original language with English or French subtitles.
The well-stocked bar of L'Estaminet will be at your service with a selection of beverages.

So gather your friends, family, and fellow film enthusiasts and experience the magic of cinema under the stars.

Free entrance

Awards & Prizes

As part of this exciting event, we will be awarding two prestigious prizes:

Ernest's Favorite Short Film:
This award recognizes the outstanding achievements in the realm of short filmmaking. The winner of this category will not only receive well-deserved recognition but also a cash prize. Additionally, they will be presented with a beautifully designed diploma to commemorate their success. The diploma will be sent as both a downloadable PDF and a physical copy via mail to be proudly displayed.

Ernest's Favorite Short Animation:
For the artists who breathe life into characters and worlds through animation, this award is specifically tailored to honor their exceptional work. The recipient of this award will be granted a cash prize and an artistic diploma, recognizing their invaluable contribution to the world of animation. Just like in the Short Film category, the diploma will be delivered electronically as a PDF and as a tangible copy via mail.

At the Ernest Film Festival, we value creativity, originality, and the power of storytelling. Our esteemed jury will meticulously review all submissions and select the winners based on their exceptional talent and dedication to the craft.

Note: For submission guidelines, festival dates, and other important details, please visit our official website. We look forward to receiving your captivating entries and celebrating the magic of filmmaking and animation with you!

Rules & Terms

Film Duration: All submissions must be short films with a maximum duration of 20 minutes. Entries exceeding this limit, such as 23 minutes and 20 seconds or 24 minutes, will not be considered.

English Subtitles: If your film contains any spoken dialogue, it is mandatory to provide English subtitles. This ensures that all audience members can fully engage with and understand the content.

By submitting your film to our festival, you agree to adhere to these rules. Failure to comply may result in disqualification. We welcome a diverse range of films and look forward to celebrating the creativity and talent of all participating filmmakers.
3 Reviews
Overall Rating
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  • Ewa Maria Wolska

    Thank you so much for showing my animation on your Festival! I couldn't attend it in person, but the communication with the festival team was really excellent. Thank you for your great work and all that heart you put into it. Hope to visit the Festival one day!

    August 2023
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  • Ted Hardy-Carnac

    Très chouette festival, belle organisation et beau programme !

    July 2023
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  • Sofia Silva

    What I liked about Ernest FF is the proximity they seem to have with the public, making the event more intimate and valuing the film they are screening. I’m really happy my minidoc got to opportunity to be part.
    Despite the distance, the festival felt close. People from the festival was good at communicating, and constantly showing what was happening on social media. They created an innovative set up (with the screen above the water fountain) for the public to enjoy.
    Over all a great experience And really happy to have shared the space with other directors in Bruxelles.
    Thanks a lot Ernest Film Festival!!! ✨

    July 2023
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