Goethe-Institut
The Science Film Festival is a celebration of science communication in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America: In cooperation with local partners it promotes science literacy and facilitates awareness of contemporary scientific, technological and environmental issues through international films with accompanying educational activities. The Science Film Festival presents scientific issues accessibly and entertainingly to a broad audience and demonstrates that science can be fun. The event has grown considerably since its first edition in 2005, becoming the largest event of its kind worldwide.
The Science Film Festival 2026 takes place in multiple countries from October 1 to December 20, celebrating the best in international science communication. This year, the festival explores how Artificial Intelligence is reshaping our world while raising critical questions about its ethical, social, and environmental impact.
The call for entries is now open until March 15, 2026. Submit your films using our online application or our FilmFreeway page. Please read our guidelines for detailed information before submission. Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of this global celebration of science communication!
In 2025, the Science Film Festival presented 123 films from 37 countries in its official selection. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the filmmakers, producers, broadcasters, and distributors who made this possible! The award winners are now announced on our website.
The Science Film Festival 2026 explores Artificial Intelligence – a rapidly advancing technology transforming how we live, work, and understand the world. AI is increasingly being used to address environmental and sustainability challenges, from monitoring biodiversity to optimizing renewable energy and modeling climate change. Yet its rise also brings complex questions about ethics, transparency, and environmental impact. The festival invites audiences to reflect on how AI can be developed and applied responsibly – balancing innovation with sustainability and human values.
The Science Film Festival received over 1,500 films from 100 countries in 2025 and participating festival countries chose 123 films from 37 countries that made up the official selection.
The official selection of the Science Film Festival 2026 will be announced in September.