Linz International Short Film Festival /Linz ISFF

Overview

FESTIVAL VISION: “The cultural dialogue in all its aspects with emphasis on diversity and inclusions our main ambition to create solidarity in society.” WE OFFER DISCOUNTED ACCOMMODATION FOR FILMMAKERS IN THE COMPETITION DURING THE FESTIVAL AT OUR PARTNER HOTEL. The jury members will be present at the festival and we will discuss each film by present filmmakers. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact Angelika Stürzl at guest@linzisff.com ****Film TALENT Academy**** International filmmakers can submit their next film project to the "TALENT PROGRAM" of LINZ ISFF. Selected projects can participate in the FILM LABs and develop their next film projects under professional guidance and pitch their projects at Festival De Cannes Film Market. The produced films of all talents will be screened at the next edition of Linz ISFF. After being admitted, you have to pay a FEE to participate in the Film LABs. For more information please check the website: https://www.filmtalentacademy.com Solidarity with UKRAINE ***To support Ukrainian filmmakers in this difficult time. The festival does not charge a fee for submission. Please email us if you need a waiver code for submission. *** ***Make sure you submit your film in the correct category to take advantage of the student, Austrian, Middle Eastern, and African film discounts! Each film can only be submitted in ONE category. ***Linz ISFF 2026*** In order to provide more opportunities for Middle Eastern, African, South and Central American filmmakers to present their work due to their limited access to the mainstream and to promote local cinema, the Linz ISFF does not charge a fee for Middle Eastern, African, Central, and South American films, and also for AUSTRIAN films. A discount is also available for student films. Linz ISFF presents films in three competition sections as well as in Special Programs. Submitted films can cover any topic: Fiction- international short fiction films max 30 minutes Documentary- international short documentary films max 30 minutes Animation - international short animations max 20 minutes The LINZ INTERNATIONAL SHORT FILM FESTIVAL was founded in 2018 with the aim of supporting young, talented filmmakers in their qualitative work and giving them the opportunity to present their creations in a professional setting. The thematic focus is on diversity and “independent films” with strong characters and plots, creative and entertaining narratives. With hundreds of independent short films on 4 festival days, the festival throws a spotlight from the screens in Linz, beyond the borders of Europe, into the wide world and underlines the lively interest of the international short film scene for the festival as well the location of Linz. The focused and multifaceted supporting program is enhanced by a diverse range of discussions, night-lines, and workshops for filmmakers and other guests. From the very beginning, the Linz ISFF has made an important contribution to the Linz cultural scene, creating a productive environment for local artists and filmmakers as well as space for collaborative artistic exchange. In the long term, the festival aims to support filmmakers in building up an international network. . . We invite films from countries such as Latvia , Moldova , Slovakia , Bosnia , Macedonia and eastern Asian Countries like Malaysia , Thailand , Indonesia , or Southern and central American like Venezuela, Eqaudor , Peru , Colombia or Bolivia to submit to Linz ISFF.

Last updated Sep 4, 2026

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Festival Details

FilmFreeway communityGold festival

• Filmmaker

  Thanks to the festival to selecting our film in the national premiere. All the hospitality was wonderful, the staff was very friendly and welcoming. We enjoyed the festival very much. Amazing! Thank you.

• Filmmaker

  I am truly grateful to the Linz International Short Film Festival for showcasing my film "Mother". It was an amazing opportunity for me, and I truly loved the atmosphere of your festival, program, people around me and your wonderful hospitality. I hope to return with my next film in the near future. Thank you once again!

• Filmmaker

  This is an amazing festival. It’s so warm and fun and supportive. I have been to film festivals in the UK & USA and this is my favorite. I loveeeeee it at Linz. And if I could, I will attend every single year. Thank you fam for the 2025 experience. God bless.

• Filmmaker

  The best festival experience I’ve ever had with one of my films! Incredible selection, the most consistent program I’ve seen so far, and such a warm and welcoming team. The pitches were fascinating to watch and showcased a wide range of genres, themes, and countries. I’ll definitely apply for the pitch next year! The city itself also has the perfect size to visit some great restaurants in between competitions. I felt really honored that my film "The Thin Line" was shown next to so many amazing films.

• Filmmaker

  Such a wonderful festival, with a great team and program and very kind and lovely people. The communication was very easy, quick and reliable. They care about their guests and we felt very welcome. Also the movie theater is a very nice venue. Thank you for having us ❤️

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