FEEL THE CINEMA INSIDE
ABOUT
The Inland Independent Film Festival (IIFF) is a small, independent film festival based in Araraquara, a cultural hub in the interior of the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Created by a collective of filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts, the festival was born from the desire to decentralize cinema and create meaningful connections between independent voices from around the world and Brazilian audiences.
With limited resources but strong curatorial commitment, IIFF believes that even a modest exhibition space can become a powerful window for films with artistic strength and unique perspectives. We prioritize quality over quantity, focusing on works that explore cinema as an expressive, author-driven art form.
Our mission is to support independent cinema in all its diversity — beyond borders, budgets, formats, or categories — and to offer a space where powerful films can be discovered, shared, and experienced collectively. If you believe in cinema as a tool for connection and expression, you are welcome to join us.
AWARDS
IIFF offers multiple award categories celebrating different forms, genres, and creative approaches within independent cinema. All films are reviewed by our curatorial team, and those that meet our artistic standards receive the Official Selection recognition.
The award winners are announced on our website and social media channels and receive an official certificate, digital laurels, and promotional support. In selected cases, winning films may also be introduced to distributors or film professionals, depending on interest and alignment.
In this edition, only the category winners are screened in person, during a free public screening in Araraquara. This focused exhibition model allows us to create a concentrated, attentive viewing experience while respecting the scale and resources of the festival. In future editions, we aim to gradually expand exhibition opportunities for selected films.
In a context where independent cinema continues to face challenges in production and circulation, IIFF remains committed to building bridges, supporting filmmakers, and sustaining spaces where author-driven cinema can be seen and valued. We move forward together — with care, resistance, and belief in independent film.
CATEGORIES
MAIN CATEGORIES (Screening Award):
* Best Narrative Short (Ficção)
* Best Documentary Short (Documentário)
* Best Animation Short (Animação)
* Best Experimental Short (Experimental)
* Best Student Film (Filme Estudantil)
* Best Brazilian Short (Melhor Curta Brasileiro)
SPECIAL JURY AWARDS (Certificate + Laurels):
* The Inland Vision Award (Special Distinction for Authorial Voice)
* Best Director
* Best Original Screenplay
* Best Cinematography
* Best Film Editing
* Best Sound Design
* Best Original Score
* Best Performance (Gender-neutral acting award)
* Best Ensemble Cast
* Best Poster Design
