Festival Awards Overview
Each year, the Bonn International Film Festival presents awards across three main competition categories, recognizing outstanding independent films, emerging talent, and innovative storytelling.
International Feature Competition
- Best Feature Film Award
- Runner-up Feature Award
- Best Director Award
- Best Screenplay Award
- Emerging Filmmaker Award
European Short Film Competition
- Best European Short Film
- Best Animation Award
- Emerging Talent Award
- Best Experimental Film
- Audience Choice Award
Documentary Showcase
- Best Documentary Feature
- Best Documentary Short
- Social Impact Award
- Community Choice Award
- Best Cinematography
Awards by Year
Browse complete winners lists from each edition of the festival.
Recent Winners Highlight
Our 2025 Best Feature Film Award went to "Echoes of Tomorrow" by Spanish director Elena Vasquez, a compelling drama that explores themes of memory and identity through innovative storytelling techniques.
Award Statistics
Eight Years of Recognition
- 120+ awards presented
- Films from 25+ countries honored
- 50+ emerging filmmakers recognized
- Diverse genres and storytelling approaches
Impact & Recognition
- Alumni films at major festivals
- Career development for emerging directors
- Cultural exchange through cinema
- Platform for independent voices
Jury Excellence
- Film professionals and critics
- Transparent evaluation process
- Consensus-based selections
- Constructive filmmaker feedback