📌 About the Event

The 79th EIFF is a celebration of “cinema in a new era,” blending 70+ years of history with a fresh, innovative approach to storytelling. It aims to showcase a curated program of feature films, shorts, and experimental cinema that challenge traditional concepts and embrace international diversity. By submitting to or attending EIFF, you are entering a space where grassroots talent meets industry legends. The festival is uniquely positioned alongside the Edinburgh Fringe, ensuring a massive, film-loving audience and an atmosphere of pure creative electricity. Whether you are an independent creator or a film enthusiast, EIFF is where the future of global cinema is debated, screened, and celebrated.

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ℹ️ Event Details

• Category: Arts and Culture / Film and Media
• Organizer: Edinburgh International Film Festival (EIFF)
• Eligibility: Filmmakers globally; films must be UK Premieres at minimum.
• Team Size: Individual or Production Teams
• Effort Level: Very High
• Submission Type: Feature Film (>30 mins) or Short Film (≤30 mins) via FilmFreeway.

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📅 Important Dates

• Submissions Open: January 6, 2026
• Regular Deadline: March 13, 2026 (Passed)
• Final Late Deadline: April 17, 2026
• Notification Date: June 30, 2026
• Event Dates: August 13 – 19, 2026
• Venue: Various venues including Filmhouse, Cameo, and VUE Omni, Edinburgh, Scotland.

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🏆 Prize Details and Value

• The Sean Connery Prize: £50,000 for Feature Filmmaking Excellence (World Premieres).
• The Thelma Schoonmaker Prize: £15,000 for Short Filmmaking Excellence (World Premieres).
• Certificates: Official selection laurels and achievement certificates.

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🎯 What You Will Do

• Submit your film via FilmFreeway, ensuring it was completed after August 13, 2025.
• Compete for world-class prizes if your film is a World Premiere.
• Attend Q&A sessions and industry panels if your work is selected for screening.
• Network with global distributors and fellow filmmakers during the festival week.
• Showcase your work in some of the UK’s most iconic and historic cinema venues.

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📦 Resources and Support Available

• Submissions FAQ: Detailed guidelines on premiere status and technical requirements.
• Industry Hub: Access to networking events for accredited filmmakers.
• Support Email: Direct access to the programming team at submissions@edfilmfest.org.