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Film Festivals in Germany 2025: Your Guide to the Best Events for Film Fans
Germany is renowned for its vibrant and diverse film scene, with festivals celebrating various genres and stories across the country every year. These festivals aren’t just a stage for filmmakers to showcase their work; but also an exciting opportunity for film lovers to uncover extraordinary films and connect with fellow cinephiles. In 2025, the festival calendar is packed with events catering to all tastes – from international arthouse cinema and short films to genre-specific favourites like documentaries and animated films.
Whatever your cinematic passion, Germany’s 2025 film festivals have something for you. Whether you’re into blockbuster international productions, home-grown German cinema, short films, animations, or powerful documentaries, there’s a festival waiting for you. Running year-round, from January through December, these events invite audiences to explore the many sides of cinema and discover fresh perspectives on the big screen.
Film festivals aren’t just for movie fans - they’re also a key meeting point for filmmakers and industry professionals to network, share ideas and debut new projects. From headline events like the Berlinale and Munich Film Festival to niche gems like the Hamburg Documentary Film Week and the Stuttgart International Festival of Animated Film, Germany’s 2025 festival lineup has something to excite local and international film enthusiasts alike.
Berlinale (Berlin Film Festival) | 10–20 February 2025
The Berlinale is undoubtedly one of the world’s most renowned and influential film festivals. Since its launch in 1951, it has become a key event for the international film industry and a must-attend for filmmakers and film enthusiasts alike.
The Berlinale attracts a wide range of attendees, including international filmmakers, producers, film critics and arthouse cinema fans. One of its standout features is the way it fosters direct dialogue between filmmakers and audiences, something rarely seen at major festivals. At the heart of the event is the ‘Berlin Competition,’ which showcases acclaimed directors and rising talents from around the world.
The prestigious Golden Bear and Silver Bear awards are the festival’s top honours, but the Berlinale also celebrates experimental works and socio-political themes, often highlighted in the Panorama section.
Families and younger film fans will love the Generation section, which features a range of films designed for children and teenagers. At the same time, the Berlinale serves as a hub for the global film industry, offering professionals plenty of networking opportunities.
Filmfest Bremen | 19–23 March 2025
The Bremen Film Festival has become one of northern Germany’s key cultural events. It presents a mix of international and German films, with a strong focus on innovative and artistic creations.
This festival appeals to audiences searching for hidden cinematic gems that don’t often make it to mainstream cinemas. It’s also a vital meeting point for filmmakers and industry professionals in northern Germany.
Women’s Film Festival Dortmund/Cologne | 31 March – 5 April 2025
The Women’s Film Festival in Dortmund and Cologne is dedicated to showcasing films that explore feminist themes and women’s perspectives. Since 2005, it has established itself as a key platform for female directors and stories centred on women.
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The festival is perfect for audiences interested in feminist cinema and films tackling social, political and cultural issues through a female lens. It’s a space where female filmmakers, activists and movie goers can discover the diversity of women’s voices in film.
With a focus on challenging and redefining the portrayal of women in cinema, this festival is also an important networking venue for feminist filmmakers and industry professionals.
KURZSUECHTIG Short Film Festival Leipzig | 2–6 April 2025
Leipzig’s KURZSUECHTIG short film festival has become one of the top events for short film enthusiasts. It showcases bold, creative works from around the world.
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The festival is a must for fans of short films, particularly those interested in innovative storytelling and experimental techniques. It attracts both young audiences and experienced filmmakers who see short films as an exciting art form.
Filmfest Dresden – International Short Film Festival | 8–13 April 2025
Filmfest Dresden is one of Germany’s most prominent short film festivals, offering a mix of international and German talent.
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This festival is ideal for short film lovers, providing a chance to discover emerging talent and innovative works. It’s also a great networking opportunity for filmmakers and industry representatives passionate about short films.
Documentary Week Hamburg | 22–27 April 2025
Hamburg’s Documentary Week is a highlight for fans of powerful, thought-provoking documentaries. It presents films that tackle current political, social and cultural issues from Germany and beyond.
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This event is perfect for anyone curious about real-world stories. With its mix of investigative and visually stunning documentaries, it’s a must for both filmmakers and fans of socially and politically relevant films.
Stuttgart International Festival of Animated Film | 6–11 May 2025
Germany’s largest animated film festival takes place in Stuttgart, attracting animation fans from around the globe.
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The festival has something for everyone, from traditional hand-drawn animation to cutting-edge 3D works. It’s especially popular with families, offering kid-friendly films and workshops for all ages.
Japanese Film Festival Frankfurt | 27 May – 1 June 2025
Frankfurt’s Japanese Film Festival is a treasure trove of Japanese cinema, showcasing everything from anime to live-action productions.
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This festival is perfect for fans of Japanese culture and cinema, offering a mix of mainstream hits and hidden gems. It’s a great chance to immerse yourself in the unique storytelling styles of Japanese filmmakers.
Hamburg Short Film Festival | 11–15 June 2025
One of Germany’s oldest short film festivals, the Hamburg Short Film Festival has been a key platform for filmmakers since 1986.
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This festival attracts cinephiles and creators alike, showcasing a wide range of short films - from drama and comedy to experimental works. It’s an inspiring event for anyone who loves innovative storytelling.
Munich Film Festival | 27 June – 6 July 2025
The Munich Film Festival is one of Germany’s biggest and most prestigious film events, offering an impressive mix of international and German cinema.
With its blend of glamorous gala premieres, indie productions, and award-winning films, this festival appeals to all kinds of film lovers. Its "New German Cinema" section is especially exciting for anyone keen to discover fresh talent in German filmmaking.
Filmfest Cologne | 19–25 October 2025
Filmfest Cologne has been a major fixture in the German film scene since 1991, focusing on German and European productions.
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This festival is a treat for cinephiles and industry professionals alike, featuring innovative and artistic films with a strong emphasis on storytelling. It’s also an excellent networking opportunity for filmmakers and media professionals.
