The Drama International Short Film Festival (DISFF) is set to take place from September 2 to 8, showcasing 27 films from 21 countries, including Greece.
Organised by cinematographer Giorgos Zois, the festival will also feature 62 films by Greek directors, premiering both nationally and internationally in Drama, northeastern Greece.
At a press conference, Zois highlighted that this year’s international section focuses on coming-of-age stories and the widening economic class gap. Countries participating include Belgium, Canada, China, Colombia, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Haiti, Iran, Italy, Kosovo, Lebanon, Netherlands, Peru, Philippines, Spain, Sweden, United Kingdom, and the United States. Award-winning films will automatically qualify for the Academy Awards.
The festival includes several sections:
– International Student Section: Focused on “Human Relations & the Sea,” screening 13 films by new artists.
– Short and Green: Featuring 15 films (5 animation, 5 documentaries, and 5 fiction) on climate change and its impacts.
– Kiddo Section: Showcasing 17 films for children and teenagers on contemporary issues, judged by young residents of Drama.
– Animation: With a notable rise in entries, screening 23 high-quality animation films.
DISFF is also collaborating with the Hellenic Open University (HOU) to screen student projects and will co-host the 1st Scientific Conference on Cinema Screenplay, Practice, and Research in December.
Supported by the Ministry of Culture, the Region of Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, the Greek parliament, and the Municipality of Drama, the festival continues to be a significant cultural event.