The curators of SHORT RIGA Test Screenings select 10 to 14 promising short films that are split into two screenings held over two days. The films are evaluated by a commission of five experts that changes yearly so as to guarantee in-depth evaluations from different perspectives. The panel will have familiarised themselves with the projects in advance, but final feedback and evaluations will follow only after seeing the films on the big screen.

The participants also benefit from an on-site pitching training prior to their presentations.

Before each film, the filmmakers will explain what stage their film is currently at and what the main issues and questions that they wish to clarify are. The experts will make comments and take questions after each film. Further communication on the projects takes place at one to one meetings.

For additional information, please contact Short Film Programme Manager Lauma Kaudzīte – lauma@rigaiff.lv.

ELIGIBILITY & REQUIREMENTS

• The programme is open to directors either residing, or born in the Baltic countries – Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania – and each year’s guest country.
• The guest country for 2025 is Croatia.
• There are no genre or technique restrictions or requirements for the submitted films.
• Runtime: rough cuts – up to 40 min., finished films – up to 30 min.
• Submitted films must have English subtitles added.
• There is no submission, or participation fee.
• In case a film is selected, filmmakers must confirm their availability for the whole event on site in Riga.

DEADLINE

The deadline for applications is 17 August 2025, 23:59 (local time in Latvia, GMT+2). 

SHORT RIGA Test Screenings consists of a closed screening of short films by directors from the Baltics and invited countries, after which an international panel of experts will provide feedback, recommendations for finishing the films, and suggestions on festival strategy. The basic principle of the event is to gather representatives of notable film festivals and talent scouts in one place. The screenings should serve as a springboard for getting the selected films into the festival circuit. 

The edition of 2025 will take place from 23 to 25 October. To submit your short film, please head HERE.

Prior to submitting your work, please check the Submission section, to see if it meets the eligibility criteria.

SHORT RIGA Test Screenings project submission is open from 17 June to 17 August 2025. The line-up of selected projects will be announced in September.