The 21 Islands International Short Film Fest celebrates global storytelling by showcasing short films from artists living on islands around the world. Founded with a vision to connect island-based filmmakers, the festival has grown significantly since its inception, receiving thousands of submissions from over 300 islands. The event highlights a diverse range of genres and themes, from animation to experimental works, and features an online platform for audiences to vote on their favorite films. With a focus on cultural exchange and collaboration, the festival provides a platform for underrepresented voices and connects artists from various islands to a global audience.

A short story about 21 Islands

Our Values

Global Connection:

The festival emphasizes the idea that islands, though geographically isolated, are deeply connected to each other and to the world. It challenges the notion of isolation and highlights the interconnectedness of different islands and cultures across the globe.

Celebration of Diversity:

The festival embraces a wide variety of themes, genres, and aesthetics, ranging from stories about documentary, fiction and animation . This showcases the value of inclusivity, diversity, and representation in storytelling.

Cultural Exchange:

The festival provides a platform for filmmakers from different islands to share their work with a global audience, promoting the exchange of ideas, experiences, and cultural perspectives.

Empowerment of Artists:

The Audience Favorite Awards are designed to amplify the voices of filmmakers, emphasizing the value of giving artists a platform to be recognized and supported by their audience.

Team

MELISA RAMOS

Film Festival Director & Lead Curator

ROSALBA ROLON

Pregones Theater | PRTT Artistic Director

JORGE MERCED