F5IFF 2026 invites filmmakers from around the world to submit their stories for our upcoming season. As a festival rooted in the celebration of diverse perspectives and creative risk-taking, we welcome submissions across all primary categories:
Short Films
Documentary Films
Feature Films
Join us in showcasing the power of independent cinema to a global audience. For more details regarding specific award categories within each genre,
please visit: f5iff.com/award-categories
Satyajit Ray Student Film Award 2026
Dedicated to "hidden talents" and "unseen voices," this category provides a premier platform for student filmmakers, inviting the next generation to explore India’s cultural landscape through the lens of creative truth.
Learn more at: f5iff.com/satyajit-ray-student-film-award
Festival Focus 2026
🎬 Films on Environmental Degradation and Climate Change
Highlighting the vital intersections of environmental stewardship and climate change awareness. As we face the urgent challenges of climate change, we aim to inspire audiences to engage deeply and spark meaningful conversations. With a dynamic lineup of films, thought-provoking discussions, and interactive initiatives, we invite filmmakers and audiences to join us in harnessing the power of cinema to inspire a sustainable future.
Note: Only non-fiction films will be considered under this category. Submissions must be documentaries or factual films.
🎬 Films on Anthropology, Cultural Preservation and Heritage Conservation - Films that showcase anthropological insights, preserve cultural heritage, and highlight conservation efforts. This collection features films that delve into the traditions, rituals, and ways of life of communities around the world, promoting cross-cultural understanding and appreciation. From ethnographic studies to heritage conservation initiatives, these films may offer a glimpse into the complexities of human culture and the importance of preserving our collective heritage.
Note: Only non-fiction films will be considered under this category. Submissions must be documentaries or factual films.
🎬 Spotlight on France — F5IFF’26 Focus Country - France takes pride of place as our esteemed Focus Country, showcasing the nation's rich cinematic legacy. In a testament to our commitment to promoting global cinema, F5IFF' 2 26 is delighted to offer a complete waiver of entry fees for all French films and filmmakers.
Submissions for the categories of Festival Focus 2026 are entirely free.
Submission terms
By submitting your film, you agree to the following terms and conditions:
You own all the rights to your film
Entry fees once paid is not not refundable
F5IFF can use elements of your film (including clips, trailer, and poster) for promotional purposes
F5IFF does not accept films completed before 2023.
After you submit a film to our Awards Program, your personal information, including your name, email, image, and any other personal information contained in the film can be shared with our judges, sponsors, event participants and others as required to administer and operate our Awards Program.
We can also share your name, image, details of your film, or other personal information that you share with us in our press releases and marketing channels, including our website and on social media for marketing and promotional purposes. By submitting a film to our Awards Program, you are giving us the permission to use your personal information and agreeing to all other terms of our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service.
If you are under the age of majority according to the law of your country, it is mandatory that your parent or legal guardian must give you the permission to submit your film. Your film will be disqualified from our program if submitted without the permission of your parent or legal guardian if you are under the age of majority.
Award Winners
F5IFF 2025
