★★★★★ – “An incredible, unforgettable experience.”
★★★★★ – “Absolutely one of the best-managed film festivals today.”
★★★★★ – “An amazing gem amid a sea of film festivals.”

Welcome to the International Film Gala!

Top 20 Most Popular Festivals in the UK
Top 50 Most Popular Festivals in Europe
Top 150 Most Popular Festivals Worldwide (out of 15,000+!)

All of this in just one year - and still climbing! Thank you for being part of this journey. Your support makes all the difference ✨

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After an incredibly successful inaugural Gala, we are back again!

In our first completely sold-out year, we brought together filmmakers from all corners of the world to network, exchange ideas, and engage in collaborative conversations over a glass of champagne while discussing potential co-productions and representation opportunities with attending producers, managers and agents.

During the ceremony, we awarded thirty-seven prizes to both established professionals and emerging filmmakers with strong authorial voices, many of whom are destined to become future leaders of the industry. We showcased outstanding work from across the global film community, celebrating films and projects made on zero budgets as well as those created with higher production values. What matters most to us is the story. We champion bold, deeply personal filmmaking, and the films presented resonated powerfully with our audiences. Films recognised at our Gala have later gone on to win or be nominated for major awards such as BAFTAs and the Academy Awards® (Oscars®), underscoring our commitment to recognising exceptional talent and championing original, powerful voices.

The Social Impact Award, one of our Grand Prix prizes honouring films that address significant social issues with powerful storytelling, was presented to the animated short Two Black Boys in Paradise, based on a poem by Dean Atta and directed by Baz Sells.

Our main Grand Prix, the Crystal Celestel, a 10-kilogram crystal trophy featuring a laser-engraved Celestel, was awarded to the powerful short film The Second Time Around, directed by Jack Howard and starring Caroline Goodall (Schindler’s List, Hook) and Hannah Onslow (This City Is Ours, Jay Kelly). Goodall and Onslow also took home a shared award for Best Actress.

The Best Actor award went to the incredible Bill Nighy (Love Actually, Pirates of the Caribbean, Living, Shaun of the Dead, Harry Potter).

It was truly an unforgettable night, with our entire team praised for the event’s exceptional organisation. Many of our high-profile guests even compared our Gala to the major award ceremonies of the industry.

Don't miss your chance to become the next star of our Gala!

We accept short and feature films (narrative, documentary, and animated), music videos, as well as screenplays (short, feature, and TV pilot).

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The International Film Gala is a prestigious (MUBI- and IMDb-qualifying) event that celebrates outstanding cinematic achievement from around the globe. Bringing together filmmakers from all backgrounds, the Gala honors exceptional talent across various categories.

With an esteemed panel of judges, featuring Academy Award (Oscar®) and BAFTA-winning/nominated filmmakers and industry experts, the event spotlights diverse storytelling and outstanding artistry in film.

Held in London at one of the city’s state-of-the-art venues, this exclusive gathering promises an evening of glamour and recognition for the finest talents in filmmaking.

Venue for Gala:

In the heart of Soho, The Courthouse Hotel hosts one of Central London’s most exclusive private cinemas. Designed with elegance and comfort in mind, the space features plush aubergine carpets, suede walls, and sumptuous leather seating with armrests and fold-out tables.

Pairing timeless style with state-of-the-art technology, the cinema is equipped with Dolby 7.1 surround sound and professional digital projection, delivering a truly immersive experience worthy of world-class film. It is the perfect setting for our Gala.

Awards & Prizes

At the International Film Gala, we don’t just celebrate cinematic brilliance, we reward it. In the autumn of 2026, our distinguished panel of judges will honour approximately 40 exceptional artists from around the world with prestigious awards. The selected projects will receive cash prizes and a variety of valuable rewards. The Grand Prix winners will also be presented with the exclusive Celestel trophies - a symbol of artistic excellence and global recognition.

Each category shines a spotlight on the extraordinary talent shaping the landscape of the very best in cinema. Whether you're an emerging filmmaker or an industry veteran, this is your chance to receive an award that aims to become one of the most respected in the world of film, elevating your work to new heights.

Awards & Prizes

Grand Prix Awards:

• Grand Prix ($1,000 + Crystal Celestel + Certificate of Excellence + MUBI)
• Social Impact Award* (Celestel + Certificate of Excellence + MUBI)

*The Social Impact Award recognises films that drive meaningful societal change, celebrating filmmakers who courageously address significant social issues and inspire audiences through powerful, transformative storytelling.

• Grand Jury Award for Narrative Feature (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Documentary Feature (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Animation Feature (Certificate of Excellence)

• Grand Jury Award for Narrative Short (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Documentary Short (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Animation Short (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Best Student Film (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Best Experimental Film (Certificate of Excellence)

• Grand Jury Award for Best Director - Feature (Certificate of Excellence)
• Grand Jury Award for Best Director - Short (Certificate of Excellence)

• Best Cinematography Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best Analogue Film Award (Certificate of Excellence)

Subcategories

(Winners will be selected from all submitted projects.)

• Best Actor Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best Actress Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best Sound Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best Editing Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best Score Award (Certificate of Excellence)

Screenplay Competition

• Best Feature Screenplay Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best Short Screenplay Award (Certificate of Excellence)
• Best TV Pilot Screenplay Award (Certificate of Excellence)

Music Video Category

• Best Music Video Award (Certificate of Excellence)

In addition, winners will receive special awards and discounts from our industry partners. It’s also important to highlight that both nominated and winning projects will be showcased to influential industry leaders, offering invaluable exposure and opportunities for future career advancement.

Celestel Statuette:

The Celestel trophies embodies the spirit of cinematic excellence, honouring the artistry and creativity that illuminate the film industry. Inspired by the celestial beauty of the night sky, this elegant trophy symbolizes the stars of our time - those filmmakers and storytellers who shine brightly through their work. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, the Celestel represents not only achievement but also the limitless potential of imagination and storytelling. As we gather to celebrate diverse voices and exceptional talent, the Celestel stands as a beacon of inspiration, recognizing those who dare to dream and create.

In the realm where visions gleam,
Celestel a sculpted dream.
A beacon of artistic grace,
shining bright in cinema's embrace.

With every tale, a journey unfolds.
In silver light, the magic holds.
A symbol of passion, talent, and art,
Celestel, where dreams depart.

For every frame, a story to tell.
In the heart of film, we honor Celestel.
A tribute to those who dare to inspire,
igniting the world with cinematic fire.

Rules & Terms

1. Important Dates

• Opening Date: November 23, 2025
• Opening Deadline: November 24, 2025
• Super Early Bird: December 22, 2025
• Early Bird: January 19, 2026
• Regular Deadline: February 16, 2026
• Late Entry: March 16, 2026
• Extended Deadline: April 13, 2026
• Creative Boost: May 11, 2026
• Spotlight Deadline: June 8, 2026
• Showcase Deadline: June 29, 2026
• Closing Deadline: July 27, 2026
• Notification Date: October 11, 2026
• Event Date: November 16, 2026

2. Submission Format

All entries must be submitted through the FilmFreeway platform.

3. Eligibility Requirements

• Any film completed after January 1, 2024 can be submitted to the main Gala competition.
• Films completed before January 1, 2024 are still eligible for our special “Spark From The Past” competition, where older films will be considered.
• All submissions not in English must include embedded English closed captions.
• Films submitted to previous editions of the Gala are not eligible for re-submission.

4. Film Duration

• Feature Films: Must be a minimum of 60 minutes in length.
• Short Films: Must be a minimum of 1 minute and a maximum of 59 minutes in length.
• Music Clips: Must be a minimum of 1 minute and a maximum of 10 minutes in length.

5. Film Classification

All entries submitted to the International Film Gala will be reviewed for age classification in accordance with local regulations. Please be aware that films or music videos (or any parts thereof) classified as unsuitable for younger audiences will not be screened during the event.

6. Premiere Status

There is no premiere requirement for films submitted to the International Film Gala. All entries will be considered regardless of prior screenings or premieres.

7. Submission Fee

All entries must be submitted, and the submission fee must be paid through the FilmFreeway platform. Please note that the submission fee is non-refundable.

8. Waiver Requests

Due to the high volume of requests and our commitment to maintaining a fair and equitable submission process for all filmmakers, we are unable to grant fee waivers under any circumstances, including for students, self-funded projects, or filmmakers from developing countries. Unfortunately, we are also unable to respond to individual waiver requests received by email.

9. Multiple Entries

Multiple entries from the same submitter are accepted. Each entry must be submitted separately, along with a separate entry fee.

10. Student Films

Grand Jury Award for Best Student Film: This award recognises excellence in student filmmaking. To qualify, filmmakers must provide proof of enrollment at an accredited educational institution during the film's production. Acceptable documentation includes a current student ID or an official letter from the institution.

11. Screenplay Competition

• Best Feature Screenplay Award and Best Short Screenplay Award: All submitted scripts must be original works for which the applicant(s) hold the copyright. If the screenplay is adapted from another source, it is the screenwriter’s responsibility to secure the necessary permissions or copyright clearances from the original author or publisher.
• Scripts should be formatted in standard screenplay style, using 12-point Courier font.
• Full-length features should be between 80 and 140 pages.
• Short film scripts should be under 45 pages.
• TV pilot scripts should be between 45 and 60 pages.
• While scripts slightly exceeding or falling short of these page counts may be considered, we cannot accept feature scripts longer than 150 pages.
• A screenplay cannot be considered for an award if it has been sold, is under option, is in production, or is otherwise bound to a third party at the time of submission. However, if a script is sold, optioned, or produced after it has been submitted, it will still be eligible for the award.

12. Disqualification Policy

• The International Film Gala reserves the right to disqualify any submissions determined to promote or endorse violence, hate, discrimination, or any other behaviour deemed harmful or objectionable.
• Any attempt to contact jury members or event organisers to influence the selection/judging process will result in disqualification.
• Projects submitted to the wrong category may also be disqualified if they do not meet the specific requirements of that category.

13. Selection Criteria

Films will be evaluated based on narrative quality, production value, and overall artistic merit. The selection committee's (jury's) decisions are final.

14. Notification of Selection

All submitters will be notified of the selection results by October 11, 2026. Selected filmmakers will receive an Event Pack with essential information regarding their participation.

15. Deliveries

For films:

• If nominated/selected, the submitting party is responsible for all electronic deliveries of a QuickTime ProRes file and Digital Cinema Package (DCP). Additional materials, such as a trailer, poster, synopsis, credits list, and press kit (including stills, a completed short questionnaire about the production, and bios) will also be requested.
• All films not in English must include embedded English closed captions.
• Electronic files must be received no later than November 11, 2026, prior to the International Film Gala.
• No physical shipping is required.

For music videos:

• If nominated/selected, the submitting party is responsible for the electronic delivery of a QuickTime ProRes file. Additional materials, such as a credits list and a press kit (including stills, a completed short questionnaire about the production, and bios) will also be requested.
• Electronic files must be received no later than November 11, 2026, prior to the International Film Gala.
• No physical shipping is required.

16. Marketing and Promotion

By submitting your project, you agree to receive marketing emails from our partner festivals regarding upcoming events and opportunities. Filmmakers grant the International Film Gala the right to use excerpts, stills, and promotional materials from their films for marketing purposes related to the International Film Gala on our website and social media.

17. Scheduling

Screenings will be scheduled at the discretion of the International Film Gala programmers. Once selected, projects may not be withdrawn from the program.

18. Legal Agreement

By submitting your project, you affirm that you hold all necessary rights and clearances for the project and that it is not subject to any litigation. You agree to indemnify the International Film Gala against any legal claims arising from the exhibition of your work.

19. Prize Awards

The judges reserve the right to withhold prizes in any category if, in their judgment, no submissions adequately meet the expected standards of quality or merit. This policy ensures that awards reflect the event’s commitment to excellence.

20. Changes to the Event

The organisers of the International Film Gala reserve the right to modify, reschedule, or change the details of the event, including dates, venues, awards, and categories, in the event of unforeseen circumstances that may impact the viability of the event. We appreciate your understanding and will make every effort to keep all participants informed of any significant updates while these terms remain legally binding.

Thank you for considering the International Film Gala. We look forward to seeing your work and wish you good luck on your journey toward success!
11 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • ENRIQUE GUSTAVO TAPIA

    Thank you very much. Participating in the International Film Gala | London was a wonderful experience. The organization, communication, and overall atmosphere were exceptional.

    Receiving an Honorable Mention for our stop-motion short Gaspar was a great honor for Chile and our entire team. We felt truly appreciated throughout the process.

    We are grateful for the recognition and highly recommend this festival. We would be delighted to return.

    November 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Dear Enrique, thank you for submitting such a wonderful short animation to us and for your warm review. Congratulations again to Chile!

  • Helena Berndl

    The International Film Gala London has accomplished what a festival can only wish for. It has been planned with utmost brilliance and care to be delivered with deep heart and soul.
    This was reflected in every part of the event, from communication through to the beautiful Gala evening, all of which displayed the perfect alloy of tremendous professionalism and inherent kindness. The whole atmosphere was very relaxed, with the type of networking that brings organic conversation, rather than feeling forced. This team is truly one of a kind.

    In a world where independent voices need to become ever louder to be heard, this event has been a truly touching experience and one that will be monumental in keeping the spirit of independent filmmaking alive.
    My co-director and I are so proud and deeply honoured to have won Best Documentary and to have been able to be part of The Film Gala’s inaugural ceremony alongside so many incredibly talented filmmakers!

    November 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Helena! Thank you for such a lovely review, and we were so happy to present your and Francesco's important and beautifully made documentary In Symbiosis to our guests!

  • Howard Wimshurst

    A fantastic evening! Such professionalism on display here by the hosts. Highly recommend.

    November 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Howard, it was such a pleasure to host a talented filmmaker/animator like you are! Congratulations!

  • Sophie Neville

    I was thrilled to have a screenplay nominated by the International Film Gala in London and felt honoured to be presented with an award. Their venue was great and everything was organised perfectly.

    November 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Thank you for your review, Sophie! We were so happy to have you with us, and congratulations again!

  • Rodolfo Pereira

    ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ International Film Gala London 2025 — A Truly Exceptional Experience

    Attending the International Film Gala London 2025 was an unforgettable experience from beginning to end. As a nominated writer-director, I was deeply impressed by the festival’s impeccable organization, the elegance of the event, and the genuine respect the team showed toward every filmmaker and screenwriter selected.

    The communication leading up to the Gala was clear, timely, and extremely professional. Upon arriving at the Courthouse Hotel in Soho, I was welcomed by a warm, attentive staff who made the entire evening feel both glamorous and intimate. The red-carpet photocall, the networking cocktails, and the beautifully produced awards ceremony all reflected a high level of care and dedication.

    What stood out most was how sincerely the festival celebrated the craft of storytelling. The ceremony highlighted each project with thoughtful introductions, and the jury’s selections reflected meaningful engagement with the work. As a winner among thousands of international submissions, I felt truly honored and seen. The audience, industry guests, and fellow nominees created an inspiring atmosphere of artistry and community.

    The Gala is much more than an awards event—it is a place where creators feel encouraged, supported, and elevated. I left the evening both proud and creatively renewed, grateful for the platform the International Film Gala offers to independent voices from around the world.

    I wholeheartedly recommend this festival to any filmmaker or screenwriter seeking a world-class experience, exceptional communication, and a beautifully curated event in one of the world’s most iconic creative cities. I look forward to participating again.

    November 2025
    Helpful
    Response from festival:

    Ladies and Gentlemen, please welcome Rodolfo Pereira, the winner of the Best Feature Screenplay award. We sincerely thank you for your insightful review and for sharing your brilliant work with our competition!