Since 2004, the Akbank Short Film Festival has been held with the aim of promoting short films in Turkey, encouraging their production, and supporting new
filmmakers. The 22nd edition of the festival will take place from March 23 to April
2, 2026. By showcasing short film productions from across Turkey and around the globe, alongside interviews and panel discussions, the festival has built a significant platform in the short film arena and has upheld its status as a cherished event for film lovers for over 20 years.
As one of Turkey’s most established short film events, the festival will this year host short films that will be screened for the first time in Istanbul within the National and International Competition sections.
Held under the umbrella of Akbank Sanat, the festival offers all events free of charge to its audience. It consists of several sections including Festival Shorts, World Shorts, Short to Feature, Experiences, Documentary Cinema, Perspective, Special Screening, Young Talents, and Forum. Each year, many films from leading international film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice are also featured in the festival program.
Aiming to expand its target audience each year with up-to-date content, the festival continues to invite young filmmakers through the Young Talents Competition, launched in 2018 to encourage film production among those aged 20 and under, in addition to the national and international main competition sections. Throughout the festival, experienced names from various areas of the film industry come together with cinema lovers through workshops, talks, and masterclasses.
Launched in 2017, the Akbank Short Film Forum includes a screenwriting competition that aims to support short films from the script development stage and to increase production opportunities.
With its inclusive program and rich background, Akbank Short Film Festival continues to be a cherished tradition, offering a space where short films are discussed and enjoyed by cinema lovers. After its physical screenings and subsequent availability on an online platform, the festival extends its reach through the Akbank Short Film Festival at Universities project, bringing films to young audiences at universities across Turkey.