ALMATY INDIE FILM FESTIVAL
Frequently asked questions
A practical guide to submissions, selection and screenings. Full conditions are available on the For filmmakers page and the festival’s official FilmFreeway profile.
When and where is the festival? Why is it called the 2026 edition?
Almaty Indie Film Festival — 2026 Edition has been rescheduled to January 15–17, 2027. It will combine online programming with selected in-person screenings and events in Almaty, Kazakhstan. Programme and venue details are published once confirmed.
How do I submit a film?
Submit through FilmFreeway: choose a category, complete the project page and provide an online screener. Check that the video is accessible and the subtitles are in place before submitting. Each work requires a separate entry.
Where can I check submission fees and deadlines?
Current categories, fees and submission conditions are listed on the festival’s official FilmFreeway profile. Check them before submitting. If you are unsure which conditions apply to your work, contact the festival team before paying.
Do I need English subtitles?
Yes. All films in languages other than English must have English subtitles, regardless of their country of production.
Can I submit a work in progress?
Works in progress may be considered if they will be completed before the festival. State the film’s current status in your submission and check the current FilmFreeway conditions.
Does submitting authorize a public online screening?
No. The screener is for selection. Before any public online screening, the festival will request separate authorization from the authorized rights holder and agree on the access period and conditions. Permission will be non-exclusive and limited to the agreed festival exhibition conditions.
Can I decline an online screening?
Yes. Rights holders may authorize both formats, an in-person screening only, or discuss the territory and period of online availability. Declining an online screening does not affect Official Selection status or eligibility for festival awards.
Does Official Selection guarantee an in-person screening?
No. Programme capacity is limited. The festival curates a separate selection for screenings in Almaty and agrees materials and exhibition permission with film representatives. Screening format does not by itself determine award eligibility unless a category specifies otherwise.
What materials may be needed after selection?
For a film selected for exhibition, the team may request a screening file, subtitles, trailer, poster, stills, synopsis and filmmaker biography. Exact requirements will be communicated when arranging the screening. There is no need to send stills or a press kit in advance.
Who should I contact about my submission?
Email remedy.kz@gmail.com with the film title and your FilmFreeway submission number, if already submitted. Briefly describe your question; do not send your account password.