We Are Leiden Shorts
About Us
Leiden Shorts was established in 2009 as a new platform for short films and has since grown into one of the most significant short film events in the Netherlands. We envision Leiden Shorts as an alternative creative space for national and international filmmakers to showcase their distinct voices by exploring the power of short film as a medium. We view cinema as a tool for social change and aim to spotlight underrepresented voices, providing space for daring narratives and unconventional forms to take shape.
Each year, Leiden Shorts receives over 1,200 submissions from more than 70 countries. Over the course of four days, the festival presents more than 100 short films in a variety of genres from around the world. Our core programme includes three competitions—for national, international, and debut films—along with thematic and focus programmes, industry and networking events, and opportunities for in-depth discussion through panels, Q&As, and workshops. This year, the festival will also host the European Short Pitch Coproduction forum. Leiden Shorts is a vibrant and ever-evolving film festival that fosters talent, broadens perspectives, and creates new opportunities for connection.
Our Story
Founded in 2009, LISFE (Leiden International Short Film Experience) was created by 5 cinema-loving expats. While they were studying at Leiden University, the first and oldest university in the Netherlands, they felt that short film was grossly underrepresented as an art form and sought to create a space where short film could truly be appreciated as a medium.
From their love of short film, a cineclub was born. Held in sporadic locations, it was an open space for cinephiles of all genres. Above all, this cineclub shone a new and open spotlight on short films.
Today, what was originally a one-day festival has grown into Leiden Shorts, one of the most prominent short film festivals in the Netherlands. Fiveteen editions later, our now 4-day festival has gone from screenings in Leiden’s underground art spaces to collaborations co-hosted by Leiden’s cinemas. Still, we have kept that same passion for short film that was at the core of our inception. This passion for quality, highly innovative art that was the basis for LISFE’s creation remains one of the pillars that defines Leiden Shorts today.
Contact
Non-profit foundation Leiden Shorts, organized by Stichting Cinemaclub Leiden, is designated as an ANBI-organisation by the tax collectors office.
BTW nr.: 822333375B02
KvK nr.: 27377960
IBAN: NL42ABNA0427377536
Leiden Shorts Festival, Vrouwenkerksteeg 10, 2312 WS Leiden – NL