Kutaisi International Short Film Festival

Kutaisi International Short Film Festival takes place in Kutaisi, one of the oldest cities in Europe and the historic cultural heart of Georgia. Known in ancient times as Colchis, it is the mythical land of the Argonauts and the Golden Fleece. The region is also home to prehistoric dinosaur footprints discovered nearby, traces that inspired the festival’s main award, the Golden Dino. With a 117-year-old filmmaking tradition, Kutaisi offers a unique setting where myth, history, and cinema intersect.

Although only six years old, Kutaisi International Short Film Festival has quickly become one of the most important film events in Georgia and an increasingly visible platform within the wider European festival landscape. In a remarkably short time, the festival has earned a strong reputation for its high curatorial standards, vibrant atmosphere, and engaged audiences. It has built collaborations and professional connections with major international festivals, film institutions, and industry professionals across Europe, positioning Kutaisi firmly on the contemporary festival map.

Today, the festival plays a crucial role in Georgia’s cultural ecosystem. It is not only a showcase for international cinema but also a vital platform for Georgian filmmakers, particularly emerging voices, offering visibility, dialogue, and meaningful international exposure. By focusing on short films, the festival emphasises innovation, experimentation, and the discovery of new talent, reinforcing the artistic value and industry relevance of the short form.

The program includes an international competition alongside carefully curated out-of-competition screenings of short and feature films, international classics, and special thematic selections. Educational events, including lectures, masterclasses, workshops, and industry discussions, create opportunities for professional development and cross-border exchange. Open-air screenings, concerts, and city-wide events transform the festival into a dynamic cultural experience that engages both visiting filmmakers and the local community.

Operating within a complex cultural and political context, Kutaisi International Short Film Festival has also become a symbol of artistic resilience and independence. Its rapid growth and expanding international partnerships reflect not only its organisational strength, but also its significance as a cultural bridge between Georgia and Europe. The festival stands as a testament to the power of cinema to connect regions, foster dialogue, and sustain artistic resistance, making it one of the most important and forward-looking film events in the region today.