CIP International Film Festival

WELCOME TO CIP – THE HOME OF INDIE FILMMAKERS
Cinema Indie People (CIP) is the official parallel section of Milan Shorts Film Festival, designed to spotlight the best low-budget short films (under €20,000) from around the world. More than a competition, CIP is a platform that offers real visibility and access to the indie film scene through screenings, networking, and promotion. Our mission is to support authentic and independent voices that often remain unseen in the traditional festival circuit.

WHAT IS CIP?
CIP breaks away from the conventional structure of film festivals. It gives space to emerging and underrepresented filmmakers through curated social media promotion, interviews, personalized feedback, artist talks, networking events, distribution support, and masterclasses. It's not just a competition—it's a year-round support system for indie artists.

HOW IT WORKS – COMPETITION & SCREENINGS
Selected films officially enter one of three competition sections: Italian Section (Best CIP Italian Short Film), International Section (Best CIP International Short Film), and Debut Section (Best CIP Debut Short Film), open to first-time directors.
The three winning short films will be officially screened as part of the Milan Shorts Film Festival, joining the curated program at the iconic Anteo Palazzo del Cinema in the heart of Milan, Italy.
The winners will be announced a few weeks before the event to allow for proper promotion and coordination with the festival team.
All submitted films must have a maximum runtime of 30 minutes (including credits), a completion date after January 1, 2024, and a budget under €20,000. Premiere status is not required. Each submission receives a notification within 72 hours.

CIP FOR SCRIPTWRITERS – SCREENWRITING SECTION
CIP also welcomes short film scripts, with a dedicated space for screenwriters who want to share their voice before their story reaches the screen. The Screenwriting Section includes the Best CIP Short Script Award, which will be officially presented during the awards ceremony of the Milan Shorts Film Festival.

THE WORLD OF CINEMA INDIE
CIP was created to bring together diverse voices across the independent film spectrum. Whether you're working with minimal resources or bold ideas, CIP aims to unite indie filmmakers, foster inspiration, and build lasting creative connections. It’s a place for stories that matter, told without compromise.

THE CIP // MILAN SHORTS FAMILY
In partnership with Milan Shorts, CIP offers ongoing opportunities throughout the year via newsletters, collaborations, and special events. Submission fees are kept accessible to ensure openness and inclusivity. Winners of the three official CIP sections are invited to attend Milan Shorts for free, with full access to all festival activities, panels, and networking sessions alongside the MSFF guests.

FOLLOW US & START THE JOURNEY
Instagram: @cipworld
Milan Shorts: @milanshortsfilmfestival
More info: filmfreeway.com/MilanShortsFF