Welcome to the Inaugural International Short & Symbolic Art Film Festival (ISAFF)! Embark on a cinematic journey where storytelling meets artistry. Whether it's Drama, Thriller, Comedy, or any genre that sparks emotions, our mission is to unearth exceptional films that leave a lasting impact. Join us in the quest for pure cinematic diamonds—films that evoke a sense of greatness and linger in the hearts of our audience. Your creation could be the gem we've been searching for. Submit your masterpiece and become a part of the ISAFF legacy.

Your work will be judged by multi-award winning professionals. 3 winners of Year-round competition will have opportunity to become a judge for next Year-Round edition and become a member of our team.

Beyond the chance to showcase your cinematic brilliance, ISAFF offers unique opportunities:

1. Networking Extravaganza: Connect with industry professionals, fellow filmmakers, and potential collaborators during our exclusive networking events.
2. Showcase to Industry Leaders: Your film could catch the eye of seasoned professionals and industry leaders, opening doors to new possibilities and collaborations.
3. Distribution Prospects: Gain exposure and explore distribution possibilities that could propel your film to wider audiences.
4. Interactive Workshops: Enhance your skills through workshops conducted by industry experts, providing insights into the art and business of filmmaking.
5. Awards and Recognition: Stand a chance to win prestigious awards that recognize excellence in storytelling and artistic expression.

Submit your masterpiece and seize the opportunities that await you at ISAFF. Join us on this cinematic journey, where your creation could shine brightly on the global stage!

Each year 7 Diamonds & 26 masterpieces will be screened in the center of Russian culture - Saint-Petersburg and will compete for 3 Gran-Prix award:
Purest Diamond Trophy
Knowledge Award Trophy
Soul award Trophy
and special one:
Symbolic Award Trophy

The Awards by category:
Best Short Film
Best Feature Film
Best Symbolic Film
Best )||(
Best Drama
Best Thriller
Best Comedy
Best Horror
Best Sci-Fi
Best Non-Dialogue Film
Best Dark Comedy
Best Actor
Best Actress
Best Supporting Actor
Best Supporting Actress
Best Young Actor
Best Young Actress
Best Cinematography
Best Director
Best Color
Best Original Score
Best Original Soundtrack
Best Music
Best VFX
Best Costume Design
Best Animation
Best Documentary
Best Russian Film
Best Music Video
Best COVID Short
Best LGBTQ+ Film
Best Web-Series
Best Poster
Best Photography
Best SHort Screenplay

Every Bi-Month Winner will be able to order original trophy.

1.Film must not exceed 35 minutes (For those who are, there is special section "Best Feature Film". When submitting your film to additional categories you must submit to 'Best Feature Film' too.)
2.Non-English films must be subtitled in English.
3.Every Film must be submit via FilmFreeway
4.To submit a film, you must own the rights or have permission from the owner.
5.Entry fees are non-refundable.
6.Films with a completion date after January 2017, films with a completion date later than the previous year's festival dates will be given preference.
7.Festival have rights to change the Date of event.
8.)||( Fest cannot provide refunds for submissions that do not meet eligibility criteria or are otherwise deemed to be disqualified under these regulations.
9.)||( Fest can use trailer/teaser/film poster/stills or BTS for promotional purpose
10. Films that doesn't match category will be disqualified.
11. By submitting to )||( ISAFF you give festival permission to live screen your film in year-round programme, if your film will be the best of bi-month round.
12. By submitting your work, you agree to receive the newsletters, promos, invites and etc.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Grateful to ISAFF for selecting my film as an award winner in the bi-monthly edition. It’s an honor to be recognized by a platform that truly supports independent filmmakers. Thank you for the encouragement and for celebrating creative voices!

    March 2026
  • Thank you for recognizing my documentary from Canada Interpreting Erik...great festival...Donald D'Haene on instagram @donalddhaene1961

    September 2025
  • Meysam Oghbaei

    I am honoured that my screenplay has been recognised as an Award Winner. My sincere thanks to the festival team and jury for this meaningful acknowledgement.

    August 2025
  • Deborah Hadfield

    An honour for our feature Chinese Whispers to win in the festival. A 5 star experience all the way round. Thank you to the festival & it’s wonderful team 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

    August 2025
  • We are deeply grateful to the International Symbolic Art Film Festival (ISAFF) for accepting our indie no-budget feature film, "Not One More!" This film, which focuses on raising awareness about domestic violence, holds a special place in our hearts. We appreciate and value these opportunities to share our work and amplify the voices of survivors and the challenges they face as they move forward. Thank you for recognizing our efforts and providing a platform to shed light on this critical issue. Your support helps us continue our mission to advocate for victims and promote change. Together, we can make a difference and create a safer world for everyone. Director Roy Dorantes, cast, crew and supporters thank you! More info at www.rdmediafilms.com

    January 2025