TAIFAS – Balkan Film and Culture Festival is an annual autumn event that brings Balkan cinema closer to the public, connects diverse communities, and promotes a new generation of filmmakers. The first edition, New Beginnings, took place in 2023 in Timișoara, during the year the city held the title of European Capital of Culture. The second edition, in October 2024, followed, with Freedom as its central theme, explored through the lens of Balkan culture. The third edition took place last year, focusing on Tolerance, Inclusion, and Acceptance, with a special emphasis on stories and perspectives from marginalized communities across the region.
This year’s festival, themed History, will occur from October 12th to 17th, 2026, in Timișoara, Romania. The International Film Residency Program, hosted during the TAIFAS festival, provides young filmmakers with hands-on experience. The program aims to foster meaningful connections, future collaborations, and enhanced visibility for Balkan cinema.
About the Residency
The residency includes:
- Practical 6-day workshops guided by film director Ivana Mladenovic. (subject to change; any updates will be communicated promptly)
- Meet-and-greet sessions with directors, producers, and actors invited to the festival.
- Access to all screenings and connecting events.
- Participants will develop their work-in-progress in a collaborative and creative environment.
Eligibility
We are looking for young filmmakers under 30 or film students with a short film project in development.
- Participants must be residents of a Central or Eastern European country.
- Participants must have a minimum B2 level of English proficiency.
- Projects can be at the script stage or any other phase of production.
- Completed short films are not eligible, as projects will be developed further during the residency in collaboration with the mentor.
Selection Process
The Taifas Film Festival team will review applications. Selection will be based on the project’s originality, feasibility, and alignment with the residency’s goals.
What do we offer?
- Accommodation during the festival
- Coverage of transportation and Visa costs
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Access to all screenings and connecting events
How to Apply
Deadline: May 1st, 2026.
To apply, submit your work in progress along with any supporting materials (e.g. script, mood board) via this link: https://forms.gle/CMzLvEoSMQDEBYTL7
Contact Us
For any questions, feel free to contact: asociatia.contrasens@gmail.com or Sînziana Pintean, Film Residency Coordinator – sinzianapintean0@gmail.com
Taifas Film Festival is a multi-annual project for 2025-2027, supported through the “Landmarks in Culture” Program, funded by the Municipality of Timișoara through the Projects Center, and The Administration of the National Cultural Fund.