Documentary Film Festivals - 2026
A List Oscar, BAFTA Documentary Film Festivals and Submission Deadlines
Collectively curated film festival in France showcasing a small selection of independent feature films and documentaries, with sustained support for theatrical distribution in France.
International film festival showcasing documentary and feature films by filmmakers of African descent. The festival offers a high-profile platform for screenings, industry visibility, and professional networking.
International documentary film festival where winning short documentaries become eligible for Academy Awards consideration.
Internationally recognized film festival in the United States presenting experimental feature films and short films in competitive programs. Academy Awards qualification applies to designated short film awards.
Esteemed international film festival in Greece presenting documentary, feature, and short films in competitive sections. Awards include Golden and Silver Athena for Best Film, judged by specialized juries.
Leading Oscar-qualifying nonfiction festival for documentary filmmakers, based in Missoula, Montana.
FIAPF-accredited international film festival in South Korea presenting competitive programs for feature films, documentaries, and short films. Academy Awards qualification applies to designated short film awards.
FIAPF-accredited international film festival in Egypt presenting competitive sections for feature films, documentaries, and short films. Academy Awards qualification applies to designated short film and documentary short awards.
International film festival in Canada presenting feature films, documentaries, and short films in competitive programs. Academy Awards qualification applies to designated short film awards.
Esteemed international film festival in the United States presenting narrative features, documentaries, and short films. Academy Awards qualification applies to designated short film and documentary short awards under 40 minutes.