FESTIVAL VISION
Statement from the Festival Management
Ashkan Nematian – Parisa Ghasemi
“The cultural dialogue in all its aspects with emphasis on diversity is our main ambition to create solidarity in society.”
Founded in 2018, the Linz International Short Film Festival (LINZ ISFF) celebrates short film as a powerful and independent art form. With a focus on diversity, the festival offers a professional platform for young and independent filmmakers to showcase their work to international audiences.
Each year, the festival presents carefully curated short films across fiction, documentary, and animation genres, many of which celebrate their Austrian or world premieres. Highlights include panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities, creating a vibrant space for exchange between filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts.
An international jury of experts will select the best films in each category. The participating films will be honored at the awards ceremony in the categories Best Fiction, Documentary, Animation, as well as Best Director, Best Screenplay and Acting, Best Editing, Sound, Best Austrian Film, Queer Feminist Film (Mahsa Jina Amini Award)
Our History
From just 800 submissions in its first year to over 2700 submissions from 112 countries in 2024, the festival has grown into a dynamic platform with global reach. Supported by a dedicated team and the CLOSEFILM association, LINZ ISFF continues to make a significant contribution to Linz’s cultural landscape, while promoting film education and strengthening the local and international film industry.
Building Connections
LINZ ISFF is committed to creating an inclusive networking platform that bridges diverse cultures and voices. It contributes to Linz’s vibrant cultural scene while promoting film education and encouraging the growth of local cinema operations and the broader film industry.
With each edition, LINZ ISFF remains dedicated to artistic innovation, meaningful dialogue, and supporting independent filmmakers in bringing their stories to life. Join us in celebrating creativity, collaboration, and the power of short film!
Supporting Emerging Talent
The Talent Academy program is one of LINZ ISFF’s cornerstones. Designed to support young filmmakers, it offers mentorship, masterclasses, and hands-on opportunities to develop projects and connect with experts. By fostering talent and providing access to international networks, the festival aims to empower the next generation of storytellers.
Queer Feminist Day
At the Linz International Short Film Festival, we celebrate the powerful intersection of queer identities and feminist voices through our dedicated Queer Feminist Day. This special program highlights stories that challenge societal norms, amplify underrepresented voices, and embrace diversity in all its forms.
From groundbreaking short films to engaging discussions, Queer Feminist Day creates a space to explore themes of gender, sexuality, and resistance. It’s more than a program; it’s a platform for visibility, solidarity, and dialogue—where cinema becomes a tool for empowerment and change.