The Festival

Internationale Kurzfilmtage Winterthur is Switzerland’s major short film festival. For six days every November, we transform the city into a dynamic short film hub.

Kurzfilmtage offers discoveries for everyone: our thoughtfully compiled thematic programmes address current events or topics that our curators are passionate about. The competition programmes showcase the latest filmmaking from around the globe, while installations, performances, and other specials highlight the diversity of audiovisual forms. And a programme of special events including concerts, readings, and more enhance the festival experience.

Programme of the 28th Internationale Kurzfilmtage Winterthur (archive)

Short Films

A short film is not just a shorter film. Shorts are a distinct art form, which we showcase at our annual festival.

Short films come in all shapes and genres, and how long – or short – they are, varies quite a bit. Simpler production processes allow filmmakers to capture the zeitgeist and quickly respond to trends. Shorts can be entertaining or surprising, they can analyse society, take a political stance, or offer glimpses of worlds unknown to us.

We compile our short films into thematic programmes or specific sections, such as our competitions, paying close attention to the selection and sequence of films in each programme. All you need to enjoy short films is an open mind for new discoveries and surprises.

Competitions
Competitions
Recent short films from around the world. The best shorts will be presented with awards on Sunday evening.
Hors Concours
Hors Concours
Recent short films from Zurich, Switzerland, and around the world screened out of competition.
Main Focus
Main Focus
Films that explore a region, a social phenomenon, or an artistic trend.
Country in Focus
Country in Focus
The cinema of a country from contemporary and historical perspectives.
Person in Focus
Person in Focus
A spotlight on the work of a filmmaker.
Special Programmes
Special Programmes
Short film programmes dedicated to topics that our curators are passionate about – or that are simply fun.
Family Programmes
Family Programmes
Short film fun for young viewers aged 6+ and for the whole family.
Expanded Cinema
Expanded Cinema
Installations, performances, and exhibitions present the medium of film in unfamiliar forms.
Special Events
Special Events
Concerts, parties, readings, and many other events enhance the festival experience.
Talks & Panels
Talks & Panels
Moderated talks and panels after the screenings offer additional context and insight into films and themes.
Industry Events
Industry Events
A wide range of educational events and networking opportunities.