The 25 Most Exciting Film Festivals Around the Globe, 2025

      For our latest annual roundup of the Coolest Film Festivals in the World, we began by acknowledging that we lack coolness.

      When it comes to evaluating festivals, we are passionate about statistics and specifics, and we prefer direct comparisons. This is why every year we compile a meticulous list of 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee. During the process of creating that list, we certainly don't come across as cool. We are meticulous, particular, and probably a bit bothersome to be around. Thus, when it's time to prepare this list — our yearly selection of the Coolest Film Festivals — we pass on the responsibility.

      Because, despite our lack of coolness, we at least have the sense to identify those who are. We can gauge their coolness through their work, confidence, and knack for discovering what might be overlooked by the average person. This year's Panel of Cool was chosen based on their creativity, diverse experiences with various festivals, and discerning taste.

      We are thankful to the Panel of Cool for assisting us in putting together this list. We are also privileged to have Ian and Katie Bignell, Heather Brawley, Gianfranco Fernández-Ruiz, Ray Smiling, H. Nelson Tracey, the filmmaking duo Zhang & Night, and Milana Vayntrub on the panel. You can learn more about their outstanding work here.

      While our selection of 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee focuses on festivals we believe will enhance your film career, for this list, we requested our Panel of Cool to share festivals they would suggest to a friend — places where they enjoyed themselves and had fun. Spaces deemed cool.

      So here it is: our list of the Coolest Film Festivals worldwide.

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      **AMERICAN BLACK FILM FESTIVAL**

      Miami Beach, Florida / May 27-31, 2026 / abff.com

      Filmmaker Gianfranco Fernández-Ruiz observes that festival co-founders Jeff and Nicole Friday — the CEO and president of ABFF — “go all out to create a large yet intimate atmosphere.” Fernández-Ruiz explains: “You might stroll down the street alone, but by the time you reach your destination, you’ll find yourself in a group of 20.” Since its inception in 1997, the festival has fostered a blend of professional opportunity and personal growth. “Many filmmakers approach festivals with a business mindset: ‘Who do I need to meet?’ But that atmosphere dissipates at ABFF. It is, without a doubt, the most enjoyable festival I’ve attended,” adds Fernández-Ruiz. He also emphasizes that “their Q&As are conducted in a way that truly highlights each filmmaker before moving on to celebrate the next. Plus, you can feel the Caribbean energy surrounding you.” This festival is also one of several listed here that is among our 50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee.

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      **ANNAPOLIS FILM FESTIVAL**

      Annapolis, Maryland / March 26-29, 2026 / annapolisfilmfestival.com

      Annapolis, which will hold its 14th edition next year, is “an absolute blast,” affirms film producer and executive Heather Brawley, appreciating the charming seaside atmosphere that serves as “a fantastic backdrop for the festival experience.” She also commends the “insightful panels, an exciting pitch competition (with great perks!), networking opportunities, and parties throughout the quaint town.” Brawley adds: “The programmers, staff, and locals are incredibly welcoming and supportive.” Another advantage is its proximity to Washington and other sites, should you want to explore. But maybe just linger? “Annapolis itself offers many appealing attractions — from the Naval Academy to fantastic coffee and vintage shops to tasty waterfront dining,” Brawley remarks. “From strolling the cobblestoned streets between screenings to participating in the unique Coffee Talks panel each morning, Annapolis merges small-town hospitality with exceptional programming. I cannot wait to return.” The previous edition showcased films such as the 2025 Academy Award for Best Live-Action Short “I’m Not a Robot” and the audience-pleasing comedy Bad Shabbos, featuring Milana Vayntrub, also a member of our Panel of Cool.

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      **ASPEN SHORTSFEST**

      Aspen, Colorado / April 7-11, 2026 / aspenfilm.org/our-festivals/shortsfest

      “Making your way to Aspen Shortsfest feels like a pilgrimage,” share filmmakers Linden Zhang and Hannah Knight, producing under the Zhang & Knight name. “The air is thin, and the journey is challenging, but that effort lends the festival an air of something precious and rare. It feels miraculous that such an impressive collection of short films can exist here, at the very roof of the world. The festival is intimate, perfectly scaled for making genuine connections with fellow filmmakers. Despite the challenge of reaching Aspen, the international attendance is remarkably strong.