The Omladinski Film Festival (OFF) Sarajevo is gearing up for another landmark edition, with an unprecedented number of film and industry submissions showcasing the festival’s growing international significance in youth and independent cinema.
Program department of the Festival has announced that over 500 short films have been submitted across two competition categories, representing filmmakers from 22 countries. In addition, the festival has received more than 50 feature films across four categories from 14 countries, reflecting Telemach OFF’s strong global appeal and its reputation as a launchpad for emerging talent.
“We’re thrilled by the response to this year’s call for entries,” said a Head of program Mirza Čustović. “The range of voices and stories from across the world underscores the growing influence of OFF and our commitment to celebrating young, bold filmmakers.”
OFF Pro: A Growing Industry Platform
This year also sees major growth in OFF Pro, the festival’s dedicated industry platform that supports emerging filmmakers through networking, collaboration, and co-production opportunities.
The OFF Pro Coproduction Market has attracted 50 short film projects from 10 countries, all currently undergoing selection for participation in the coproduction market. As part of the pre-selection process, over 70 one-on-one meetings have already taken place between selected project representatives and French producers, an initiative proudly sponsored by the Embassy of France.
Furthermore, interest from Spain has been exceptional, with more than 80 Spanish producers and distributors applying to take part in OFF Pro, supported by ICAA (Institute of Cinematography and Audiovisual Arts).
“These partnerships and the overwhelming industry response validate our mission to create a bridge between young and emerging creators and established industry leaders,” said Federico Fasulo, Head of OFF Pro Film Market.
Established in Sarajevo, the Telemach Omladinski Film Festival is the largest youth-oriented film festival in the region. It celebrates independent cinema and emerging voices with a dynamic mix of open-air screenings, workshops, masterclasses, and special programs. OFF has become a key cultural event that combines artistic exploration with vibrant youth energy.
With its expanding OFF Pro Film Market and an ever-growing international network, the festival continues to strengthen its role as a catalyst for collaboration and innovation in the film industry.
The official film and industry selections for the 2025 edition will be announced later this spring.
