MosDocFest

Non-fiction films over 40 minutes. We’re looking for powerful storytelling, strong direction, and meaningful topics — from personal journeys to global issues. Selected films compete for the Best Feature Documentary Award and audience recognition. Any Feature Documentary up to 120 minutes

For documentaries up to 40 minutes. We welcome impactful short-form storytelling across any theme or style. Selected films compete for the Best Short Documentary Award and may receive additional audience and jury recognition. A short documentary we define as being documentary that is 40 minutes or shorter.

Student documentary up to 45 min.

This category welcomes boundary-pushing documentaries that challenge form and structure, including essay films, archival deconstructions, found footage, and hybrid works that blur fiction and nonfiction. Innovation is key.

Listed fees include EUR 22 early-bird, EUR 32 regular, EUR 40 late, and EUR 45 extended.

For debut filmmakers presenting their first completed documentary project of any length. The director must not have previously directed a publicly screened or distributed feature or short film. Proof of debut status may be requested.

Any genre and length documentary. Awarded to a filmmaker whose vision, storytelling, and execution stand out across any category. Recognizes exceptional directorial craft in bringing a documentary to life.

Listed fees include EUR 30 early-bird, EUR 35 regular, EUR 40 late, and EUR 45 extended.

For documentaries that focus on physical or mental health, medical innovation, disability rights, healing journeys, or lived experiences with illness. We welcome personal stories, social commentary, and informative explorations that highlight the human side of health and resilience.

For films that explore the natural world, environmental challenges, climate change, conservation, sustainability, or the relationship between humans and nature. This category celebrates documentaries that raise ecological awareness and inspire action through powerful imagery and storytelling.

Listed fees include EUR 30 early-bird, EUR 35 regular, EUR 40 late, and EUR 45 extended.

For documentaries that focus on scientific discovery, research, innovation, or educational content. Ideal for films that explain complex concepts in accessible ways, highlight breakthroughs in science and technology, or aim to inform and educate audiences on important topics.

For documentaries that celebrate the power of music or dance—whether exploring an artist’s journey, cultural traditions, musical innovation, or the rhythm of movement. Ideal for films that immerse the viewer in sound, performance, choreography, or the communities built around them.

For documentaries that explore historical events, figures, or periods with depth and accuracy. Perfect for films that offer new perspectives on the past, reinterpret known stories, or bring forgotten histories to light through compelling storytelling, archival footage, or expert analysis.

For documentaries that celebrate, preserve, or explore the traditions, rituals, languages, and identities of cultures around the world. Ideal for films that highlight indigenous practices, ancestral knowledge, or the ongoing efforts to maintain cultural memory and identity across generations.

For documentaries that intimately explore the life, character, and journey of an individual or group. Whether it's a personal biography, artistic portrait, or in-depth profile, this category honors films that offer a compelling window into unique lives, achievements, and personal transformations.