5 Winter Film Festivals

As winter is definitely coming, and a chill ominously looms over Europe, we decided to stay in tune with the weather and already think about winter time. So, this week we’ve compiled a list of 5 currently ongoing and upcoming film festivals that you should maybe keep tabs on. Just in case you happen to be in the right place at the right time.

1. Exground Filmfest (16-25 November 2018; Wiesbaden, Germany)

Unless you’re currently just East of Frankfurt, you’re probably going to miss this one.But worry not, you’ll get another chance – the Exground Filmfest has been around for 30 years, and shows no signs of going away. The festival is mostly dedicated to arthouse films, and features three main competitions: American Independents, Made in Germany, and International.

2. Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (17 November – 3 December 2018; Tallinn, Estonia)

This is one of the biggest festivals in Northern Europe, and if you haven’t had the chance to experience it yet, now’s the time. And by now, we mean right now – it’s going to be on for a little over a week, so make sure to get to the Estonian capital rather soon! The mission statement of the festival is neatly summarised as catering for ‘cultural and genre diversity and dynamism, showcasing established auteurs and masters alongside newcomers with films originating from around 70 different countries’. And one of the best things about it is that it dresses Tallinn in festive colours and puts all the participants in a Christmassy mood!

3. Tirana 48 Hour Film Project (23-25 November 2018; Tirana, Albania)

This is an interesting one, so please hear us out. Filmmakers from all over Tirana will be given exactly 48 hours to write, shoot and edit a short film. At the end of the day (well, two days), the winner will have the honour of participating in a further selection phase which could see it seal a screening spot at Filmapalooza 2019.

4. Riga International Short Film Festival 2ANNAS (26 November – 2 December 2018; Riga, Latvia)

One more winter festival in a Baltic country – why not? Celebrating its 23rd anniversary this year, the Riga International Short Film Festival 2ANNAS is the oldest short film fest in the Baltic states, an achievement it takes great pride in. After the screenings finish and the awards are handed out, participants do not have to go home just yet – the festival is also known for its wild parties in unusual locations, so it’s important to preserve some energy for afterwards.

5. Winter Film Awards (14-23 February 2019; New York, US)

For the last entry in our list, we’ll have to be patient and navigate our way all the way to mid-February. Founded in 2011 in the heart of New York, Winter Film Awards comes together once a year, celebrating everyone – filmmakers of any race, ethnicity or gender. In the rather short time span it has been operating, it is one of the top 100 best-reviewed film festivals on FilmFreeway, which should only give you further incentive to participate!