Cyprus International Short Film Festival opens in Limassol

The 16th Cyprus International Short Film Festival (ISFFC) has commenced in Limassol, running from October 10 to October 16, 2026. Organized by the Ministry of Culture’s Department of Contemporary Culture and the Rialto Theatre, the event serves as a major gathering for the Cypriot cinema industry, international producers, and directors.

The opening ceremony featured a performance titled ‘The Open Call: A Cheap, Ideal Idea’, directed by Marios Kakoullis. Artistic directors Diomedes Koufteros and Keti Papadima delivered opening remarks, alongside speeches from Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis and George G. Papageorgiou, General Director of the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Cyprus. Officials highlighted the significance of international artistic organizations like the ISFFC for both the city and the country.

Screenings and activities remain centered at the Rialto Theatre. The festival program includes the queer coming-of-age film ‘Arasta’, which explores themes of desire and self-discovery through human behavior and unspoken communication.