The Independent and Experimental Film Festival of Kerala (IEFFK and IEFFK Short) is a crowdfunded film festival started in 2017 to promote independent and experimental cinemas from across the world. IEFFK works as a community where individual and radical cinematic voices are brought together, celebrated, and honored.

IEFFK happens twice every year in the second week of May and November respectively: IEFFK (Feature Program) happens in May, and IEFFK (Short) happens in November. The festival is organized by Minimal Cinema Film Society and New Wave Film School.

Bioscope award for Best Film ( Fiction or Documentary film duration Below 40 minutes) INR.50,000.
(Equally shared with the director and producer of the film).
Bioscope award for Second Best Film INR 20,000.
Best Director
Best Script
Best Cinematography
Best Editing
Best Sound Design
Best Music
Best Performance [Acting]

1. Competition category is common for fiction films and documentaries ( above 40 minutes)
2. No screening fee will be provided to selected and non selected films
3. No travel support will be provided to the filmmakers who attend the film festival.
4. Selection jury will decide the competition films from submitted films.
5. The films should have subtitles in English.
6. Entry fee will not be returned.
7. Selected films cannot be withdrawn by the filmmakers.
8. The decision of the selection committee and jury is final.
9. The film should have been produced within last 24 months.
10. Downloadable film files (MP4) should be sent for the screening process
11. You can submit any type of video works including video art and music albums.
12. The plaque accompanying the award will only be given to those who attend the festival in person.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Very relevant film festival in India for independent film makers.My experience was Memorable.

    May 2026
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much. Thank you for the great support.

  • From powerful independent films to vibrant discussions, every screening carried a unique energy.
    More than a film festival, IEFFK felt like a living space for stories, emotions, and cinematic freedom .. thanks to Ieffk2026 Team
    Venue ( Krishna Menon Museum ) was breath taking

    May 2026
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much. No words...This is touching.

  • I hope success for them.
    Regards

    December 2025
    Response from festival:

    Thank you

  • Arnab Mahapatra

    The Independent and Experimental Film Festival of Kerala deserves heartfelt appreciation for championing cinema that dares to break conventions. The warmth of the team, the sensitivity in programming, and the respect they show to filmmakers create a wonderfully supportive atmosphere. Festivals like this keep independent cinema alive, accessible, and celebrated.

    November 2025
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much. Will meet the next edition.

  • Sugandh Lamba

    So happy to have participated! We thank you for selecting our film and placing it in a great line up. To add, great promotion and timely communication made the experience truly wonderful. We wish the festival the very best for its future seasons.

    November 2025
    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much, will meet the next edition.