Side Events & Initiatives

Awards Special Screening
Together with SWISS FILMS and SRG SSR we organize the exclusive Awards Special Screening, which takes place during the Zurich Film Festival.
Film Music Competition
In the International Film Music Competition film composers are asked to write their own score for a chosen short film.

How to Kinderfilm
Together with the Zurich Film Foundation, we put the spotlight on children's and family films with the How to Kinderfilm format.

Leading FeMales
Leading FeMales focuses on inspiring women who talk about their careers and the various challenges they face in the film industry.

SoundTrack_Zurich
SoundTrack_Zurich is a two-day specialist event on film and media music that takes place as part of the Zurich Film Festival.

SRF Writer's Day
With SRF Writer's Day, Swiss Radio and Television (SRF) and the Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) are setting an example for the work of authors by focussing on screenwriting and script development in the early stages.

ZFF Masters
The ZFF Masters are moderated discussions with well-known personalities from the international film industry. The audience gains an exciting insight into their creative work and their attitude as filmmakers.

Zürcher Filmnacht
At the ZFF, local filmmaking makes a strong impression. With the Zurich Film Night we emphasize, together with the Zürcher Filmstiftung, the economic and social importance of filmmaking in Zurich.

Zurich Summit
The prestigious Zurich Summit is a leading platform for the creative industries. This two-day boutique conference brings together a distinguished lineup of film producers, sales executives, creators, entrepreneurs, and financiers from the film, entertainment, and technology sectors. The unique focus is on bridging the markets of Europe and the USA, creating unparalleled opportunities for cross-market collaboration.
Talent Promotion

ZFF Academy
Every year, the ZFF Academy talent development program brings together up-and-coming filmmakers with international film experts, providing a platform with international appeal and a programme tailored to the specific needs of the participants.

ZFF Summit Climber
The three-day ZFF Summit Climber training program takes place from September 26 to September 29, 2025 during the Zurich Summit weekend. The ZFF Summit Climber is designed as a mentored talent development programme that acts as a knowledge and networking platform.
Industry Services

Film Submission
Film submissions for the 21st Zurich Film Festival are open until June 30, 2025. We are looking forward to many exciting films.

Industry Accreditations
Industry representatives can now apply for industry accreditation for the 20th ZFF (3.10. - 13.10.2024) in order to take advantage of our specially curated Industry events and initiatives.

P&I Screenings
The Press & Industry Screenings are exclusive film screenings from the official festival programme for the accredited industry and press. They are accessible with the personal Industry or Press Badge.