The Zsigmond Vilmos International Film Festival, named after the Oscar-winning Hungarian cinematographer, will make its return to Szeged’s historic Belvárosi Mozi cinema in spring 2025. Since its founding, the festival has celebrated the artistry of cinematography, spotlighting visual storytelling while providing a platform for emerging and established filmmakers worldwide.
This year, the festival is open for submissions across categories that include feature films, documentaries, short films, and experimental works. Films completed after January 1, 2023, are eligible for submission, with an entry deadline set for January 31, 2025. The festival’s professional jury will evaluate submissions with a keen eye on cinematographic achievements, assessing both creativity and technical skill in visual narrative. Submission details, guidelines, and application forms are available on the festival’s official website.
In addition to film screenings, the festival will offer a rich lineup of workshops, panel discussions, and events aimed at both professionals and film enthusiasts. These sessions will cover various aspects of cinematography and filmmaking, providing attendees with insights into the craft from renowned cinematographers and industry experts. Networking events will also facilitate collaboration, connecting filmmakers, producers, and key industry players.
The Zsigmond Vilmos International Film Festival has grown in reputation, showcasing a diverse selection of both Hungarian and international films that honor the legacy of Vilmos Zsigmond himself, whose work on films like “Close Encounters of the Third Kind” has left an indelible mark on the art of cinematography. By celebrating visual storytelling in such a focused way, the festival continues to draw audiences eager to see the best in cinematographic talent, and filmmakers who are equally eager to present their work in Szeged’s unique setting.
For those interested in this year’s festival, further details and updates will be provided on the official festival website and social media channels.












