1st Abbas Kiarostami International Short Film Festival

Call for Entries:

Abbas Kiarostami is one of the most significant independent filmmakers in the history of Iranian and global cinema. His works have always conveyed deep concepts and interpretations about existence and life. Kiarostami's poetic style and innovative forms have transformed his cinema into one of the most prominent movements, not only in cinematic and artistic spheres but also in the philosophical realm. The diversity of his activities, ranging from graphic design, photography, and poetry to video art and short and feature films, all stem from profound life experiences that reflect humanity and human essence.

The First Abbas Kiarostami International Short Film Festival is proud to create a platform for showcasing and discussing Kiarostami's works directly related to his worldview. We aim to contribute to the continuation and expansion of his cinematic, existential, and philosophical perspectives. Our festival's approach encourages and promotes independent and talented filmmakers who are concerned with advancing thought and imagery.

A) Themes

We invite works that revolve around Kiarostami's personality, ideas, and worldview, his artistic works (including poetry, design, photography, video art, and film), as well as those influenced by his narrative and stylistic elements in cinema.

B) Submission Categories

All short films, including fiction, animation, documentary, experimental, and video art, are eligible to participate in the festival.

C) Important Submission Guidelines

• Submitted works must adhere to the thematic, content, and formal requirements outlined in section A.
• There are no restrictions on the production year of the films, and previously screened or festival-presented works are eligible to participate in this event.
• All films must be independently produced and should have no affiliations with governmental entities.
• Films must be submitted online by completing the registration form.

D) Submission Formats

Format: MPEG2, MPEG4 (H.264), MOV (H.264) with embedded English subtitles.

Resolution: Full HD, 1920 x 1080

Frame Rate: 25p – 50i

E) Festival Awards

This is a competitive festival, and the top three selected films will receive the following awards:

First Film: €500 + Festival Trophy + Certificate of Appreciation

Second Film: €400 + Festival Trophy + Certificate of Appreciation

Third Film: €300 + Festival Trophy + Certificate of Appreciation

All accepted films in the competition section will receive a participation certificate.

For any issues during the registration process and inquiries related to the festival, please contact us via email atsubmissions@kiarostamifilmfest.com