A hybrid celebration of world independent cinema — in every format — screened live in Berlin and online for a global audience.
Berlin has always been a city of crossings — of walls that fell, of borders opened, of voices set free. Berlin Gate Film Festival carries that spirit into cinema.
We are an independent, international festival built to discover new voices and connect them with audiences and industry. Our mission stands on three pillars: a launchpad of prestige and discovery for filmmakers, a global hybrid platform reaching audiences everywhere, and a curated, memorable festival experience in the heart of Berlin.
Every format is welcome — from a first student short to a feature by a seasoned auteur. What unites the selection is originality, courage, and craft.
A focused, comprehensive slate across film, screenplay and photography. Submit one work to as many categories as it fits.
From craft honours to our signature Grand Prize, awarded by an independent professional jury and by the audience.
Enter early and save. All submissions are handled securely through FilmFreeway. Fees below are per work (per image for photography).
| Category | Earlybird | Regular | Late |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short · Animation · Music Video · Student · Underground · AI | €12 | €18 | €25 |
| Feature · Documentary · Low-Budget Feature | €25 | €35 | €50 |
| Screenplay | €12 | €18 | €25 |
| Photography (per image) | €5 | €8 | €12 |
Exact deadline dates are published on our FilmFreeway listing. Works completed within the last 24 months are eligible; no premiere requirement. Non-English films require English subtitles.
Every entry is reviewed by our programming committee. Selected works receive the official laurel and enter competition.
An independent jury of working film professionals decides the winners, judging artistic quality, storytelling, craft and impact. Jury announced ahead of the season.
Audiences vote online for their favourite — a prize decided by the people, celebrating films that move a crowd.
A hybrid model made for today's filmmakers — the prestige of a live Berlin edition and the reach of a global online audience.
An intimate live screening and awards evening in Berlin — red carpet, audience and industry.
Selected works reach audiences worldwide through our online programme, beyond the limits of a single room.
Official Selection and Winner laurels, digital certificates, and a spotlight that travels with your film.
Join filmmakers from around the world. Submissions are handled through FilmFreeway — secure, simple, and built for creators.
Submit on FilmFreewayFilmFreeway link activated at launch.
A hybrid festival: live screenings and awards at a Berlin venue (announced ahead of the season), plus a global online programme. Berlin Gate Film Festival is organised in Germany.
General & submissions
info@berlingatefilmfestival.com
We aim to reply promptly to every filmmaker.