A Decade of Storytelling, A tribute to Women:

This year marks a special milestone for #EuroFilmFestZW. For the past 10 years, the festival has provided a platform for cultural exchange, thought-provoking storytelling and cinematic excellence, showcasing European and African films and fostering dialogue. BIOSKOP! plays a vital role in this mission by nurturing local talent and providing a launchpad for emerging filmmakers.

As we commemorate a decade of EuroFilmFestZW, this year’s BIOSKOP! short film competition is dedicated to "Celebrating Women." We invite filmmakers to interpret this theme broadly and creatively. From personal stories and historical tributes, to abstract explorations of strength, resilience, or femininity, all perspectives are welcome. Films that highlight how women inspire, challenge, and redefine our world - on-screen and off - are also encouraged. This year's competition is a celebration of women’s impact on society and in cinema. As we look back at the festival’s 10-year journey, let us honour women through diverse storytelling and show how women inspire change, break barriers, and leave enduring legacies. 

We welcome films across various genres, including animation, documentary, and live action. We understand that some filmmakers have limited resources. Be innovative, work with what you have, and tell us your captivating story!

Eligibility and Submission Details

• Who can apply?

• To be eligible for this competition you must be of Zimbabwean heritage, based, living or working in Zimbabwe or in any European or African country.
• Participating filmmakers who have family members organizing or judging the competition must advise the Festival Coordinators of their relationship with the of participating jury/judges to avoid conflict of interest. Jury/Judges related to any filmmaker will not be allowed to adjudicate in the category of the said filmmaker. This will ensure that the adjudication process remains transparent and fair. Violation of this Advisory will constitute disqualification of your film from the competition.

• Submission Deadline: 6 April 2025, 11:59 PM CAT.

• Submission Platform: https://filmfreeway.com/TheEuropeanFilmFestivalZimbabwe

Prizes and Recognition

An independent jury panel of industry professionals, academics, and community leaders will judge entries based on content, creativity, and technical aspects. The competition boasts various categories and awards, with the winning films receiving cash prizes:

• Best Narrative Short - Winner USD 800

• Best Documentary Short - Winner USD 800

• Best Sound Editing - Winner USD 400

• Best Cinematography - Winner USD 400

• Best Diaspora Film - Winner USD 400

• Best Actor/Actress – Winner USD 400

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to be part of the vibrant #EuroFilmFestZW community!  Submit your film today and showcase your film-making prowess on a national platform.

For more information, contact:

Contact the festival team at eurofilmfestivalzw@gmail.com

Let's celebrate cinema, empower voices, and build bridges through the magic of stories!

About the European Film Festival Zimbabwe:

The European Film Festival was launched by the European Union in 2016. Over the past ten years, the European Film Festival has evolved from the showcasing of European movies into a platform for diverse and visually unique storytelling, celebrating both European and African cinema. This festival now plays a contributing role in nurturing the development of the local film industry, offering valuable opportunities for cultural exchange, as well as a platform for Zimbabwean filmmakers to engage and collaborate on both national and international scales. 

2025 marks the Tenth Edition of the European Film Festival Zimbabwe which will be running from the 30 May – 8 June 2025. With the main events in Harare and in Bulawayo. (Venues to be announced in due course).