The 30th ifva Festival

Founded by the Hong Kong Arts Centre in 1995, ifva has been dedicated to providing a platform for independent filmmakers and media artists from Hong Kong and Asia to showcase, exchange and promote their work. Over the past 30 years, ifva has discovered emerging talent through its competition, public screenings, and extended programmes, witnessed the development of moving image creation in Hong Kong and Asia, and continually expanded the possibilities of moving images, establishing itself as a pioneering force in Asia. This year, the ifva Awards and Festival reaches its 30th edition, a significant milestone. While honouring its tradition, this edition introduces fresh elements, including a newly added AI short film category in response to the growing convergence of technology and creative expression. From 9 to 23 October, the Hong Kong Arts Centre will present a series of finalist screenings and extended programmes for this edition, featuring outstanding works by short filmmakers from Hong Kong and across Asia. Spanning short films, animation, and AI Creation. The screening will showcase the diverse landscape of moving image creation. Two symposiums will also be held to explore the latest developments and challenges in short films, fostering exchange and discussion among creators, industry professionals and audiences. The 30th ifva Awards Ceremony will be held on 24 October to present the awards across all categories and groups, recognising this year's outstanding short films. Filmmakers, industry professionals and jury members will come together to celebrate this edition's achievements and continue the legacy of exchange and the passing of knowledge within the independent visual media community.