21st European Independent Film Festival

ÉCU – The European Independent Film Festival is dedicated to the discovery and advancement of the very best independent filmmakers from around the world. We proudly provide a unique platform for risk-taking storytellers to reach the broadest audiences possible. Our annual festival showcases films that demonstrate quality, innovation, and creativity in both form and content. These qualities are judged in 14 categories, 7 of which are open to non-European filmmakers (from the Americas, Australia, Africa, and Asia), and compete for 25 awards. Jury members come from around the globe, have a variety of backgrounds, and are all united in their desire to screen films that will truly impress and inspire attendees. ÉCU has expressly established itself and is often referred to as the Sundance of Europe. As such, we are the perfect venue for bold and visionary filmmakers to present their work to the cinema-loving public who are actively seeking alternatives to commercial-hungry major studio projects. Our screenings of new and thought-provoking cinematic creativity attracts more than just the public, but agents, talent scouts, production company representatives, distributors, and established producers, all of whom are searching for inspiring projects and raw talent. ÉCU – The European Independent Film Festival has a wide variety of events for attendees to participate in throughout the weekend. Following every screening session, there are Q&A’s where audience members can pose questions directly to the directors. Directors then have the opportunity to respond and speak about their work and process. An assortment of workshops focusing on a number of subjects and hosted by industry professionals are available to all attendees. ÉCU is also a strong supporter of musicians and live music can be heard throughout the entirety of the weekend. Every evening there are amazing after parties where attendees and filmmakers can unwind, ideas can percolate, and a general good time can be had by all. (Sfilmmaker is our exclusive platform for cooperation in China, and we look forward to your good film.)