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Kurdistan International Independent Film Festival

Welcome

6th Kurdistan International Independent Film Festival

Abstract Clouds

About

Kurdistan International Independent Film Festival (KIIFF) is an international hybrid film festival dedicated to championing bold, independent voices in contemporary cinema.

 

KIIFF’s core mission is to curate a highly selective and artistically driven program that reflects the evolving language of global filmmaking. The festival serves as a dynamic platform for discovery, dialogue, and exhibition—bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles through a combination of exclusive online screenings, filmmaker conversations, and curated presentations.

 

With a strong commitment to artistic integrity and cultural diversity, KIIFF prioritizes quality over quantity, presenting a carefully curated selection of films across all genres. Each edition is designed as a focused cinematic event, emphasizing meaningful engagement between creators and audiences.

 

The festival features an international jury composed of distinguished filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals, ensuring a rigorous and credible evaluation process.

 

In addition to its official selections, KIIFF hosts an ongoing Filmmaker Interview & Talks Program, fostering in-depth discussions around the creative process, cinematic language, and the future of independent cinema.

 

KIIFF has been honored to host acclaimed artists, award-winning talents, and internationally recognized organizations, reflecting its growing global network and industry relevance.

• Oscar-winning actress Cloris Leachman

• Oscar-winning actress Olympia Dukakis

• Oscar-winning actress Tatum O'Neal

• Oscar-winning actor Louis Gossett Jr

• Oscar-winning actor George Chakiris

• Emmy-winning Tim Landry

• BAFTA-winning actor Andrew Scott

• David Lynch foundation

• Oscar Nominees Live Action and Winners

• BAFTA Nominees and Winners

• The Academy Qualifying, Cannes Film Festival, Venice International Film Festival

And so on...

 

All selected and awarded projects receive official certification from MRPFS (M&R Pictures Film School), with further academic and professional recognition granted upon evaluation.

 

The festival operates under the umbrella of M&R Pictures, an international production and distribution company collaborating with major global platforms including Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Apple TV, Tubi, and Roku.

 

KIIFF welcomes submissions from filmmakers worldwide and remains committed to redefining the possibilities of a new-generation, digitally-driven festival experience.

Awards

KIIFF Certificate

Degree
Diploma

•Best of Fest
•Best Feature Film
•Best Short Film
•Best Feature Documentary
•Best Short Documentary
•Best Short Animation
•Best Feature Screenplay
•Best Short Script
•Best Director
•Best Leading Actress
•Best Leading Actor
•Best Supporting Actress
•Best Supporting Actor
•Best Cinematographer
•Best Original Score
•Best Costume Designer
•Best Editing
•Best Sound
•Honorable Mention

Deadline

April 21, 2026

Opening Date

May 9, 2026

Earlybird Deadline

June 6, 2026

Regular Deadline

July 3, 2026

Late Deadline

August 29, 2026

Extended Deadline

September 1, 2026

Notification Date

September 6 – 9, 2026

Event Date

KIIFF

Key Stats

20k

Audience Attendance

100

Projects selected

500

Estimated Submissions

18

Awards Presented

Rules & Terms

Before Submitting

 

Kurdistan International Independent Film Festival (KIIFF) is a selective, curated international festival dedicated to independent cinema.

 

While we consider all genres and forms, filmmakers are encouraged to review previous editions to better understand the festival’s artistic direction and programming standards.

 

Studios and Sales Agents:

KIIFF operates as an independent platform and does not provide screening fees. Submissions requiring exhibition fees will not be considered.

 

Submission Guidelines

 

1. Each filmmaker may submit one film per edition, completed within the current or previous two years.

2. All non-English language films must include accurate English subtitles.

3. By submitting, applicants confirm they hold all necessary rights and permissions for festival exhibition.

 

If Selected

 

1. Rights & Clearances

The submitter confirms that all rights, including music, images, trademarks, and underlying materials, are fully cleared for festival exhibition (both digital and physical showcase formats).

 

2. Festival Use & Promotion

Selected filmmakers grant KIIFF the non-exclusive right to use excerpts, trailers, stills, and related materials for promotional purposes across official channels, including website, press, and social media.

 

3. Press Materials (Mandatory)

All selected projects must provide a complete Electronic Press Kit (EPK), including:

 

• Trailer

• High-resolution stills

• Cast & crew details

• Official synopsis

 

4. Participation & Engagement

Filmmakers are strongly encouraged to participate in the festival’s activities, including:

 

• Online screenings

• Q&A sessions

• Filmmaker Interviews & Talks Program

 

In case of unavailability, a representative may participate on their behalf.

 

5. Screening Format

KIIFF primarily operates as a curated digital screening platform, complemented by selected regional physical showcase events.

 

6. Logistics

Any costs related to the delivery of materials (if required) remain the responsibility of the filmmaker.

 

KIIFF Commitment to Filmmakers

 

1. Full Viewing Guarantee

Every submitted film is reviewed in its entirety by the programming team.

 

2. Transparent Communication

KIIFF maintains ongoing communication regarding submission status throughout the selection process.

 

3. Data Protection

Filmmaker information and submitted materials are treated as strictly confidential and will not be shared without explicit consent.

 

4. Professional Feedback (Optional)

Upon request, selected filmmakers may receive curated screening notes following the festival.

 

Terms of Entry

 

Submission via FilmFreeway constitutes agreement with all KIIFF regulations. The submitter confirms they are fully authorized to enter the film and accept all terms outlined above.

Categories

  • Feature Film

  • Short Film

  • Feature Documentary

  • Short Documentary

  • Short Animation

  • Feature Screenplay

  • Short Script

  • Short Movie Review

  • Feature Movie Review

  • Kurdish Movies / Kurdish Filmmaker

Submit

KIIFF proudly accepts entries on FilmFreeway, the world's #1 way to enter film festivals and creative contests.

Red Chairs
"It is a wonderful experience to be a participant in this festival. The technical team always in constant communication makes you feel like part of a big family."

Gallery

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