The Odense International Film Festival (OFF), established in 1975, is Denmark’s oldest and most prestigious film festival dedicated exclusively to short films. Held annually during the last week of August in Odense, the festival offers a rich and diverse program of screenings, workshops, debates, seminars, and industry events.
Centered around Brandts, one of Denmark’s leading art museums, OFF creates a vibrant cultural setting for filmmakers and audiences to connect. In 2009, Birgitte Weinberger took on the roles of head of festival and artistic director, transforming OFF into a dynamic platform that celebrates the short film genre with passion and creativity.
OFF’s competition program features four primary categories:
The festival also includes a Youth Competition and an innovative pitching contest, “Pitch Me Baby,” to support emerging talent.
OFF is recognized as a qualifying festival for the Academy Awards, European Film Awards (EFA), and Denmark’s Robert Awards, elevating the international prestige of its award winners. Additionally, OFF engages the local community with the Audience Award, voted on by festival attendees.
OFF has played a pivotal role in bringing short films to global audiences. In 2021, “The Long Goodbye,” starring Riz Ahmed, won OFF’s prestigious H.C. Andersen Award, leading to its Academy Award win for Best Live Action Short Film.
In 2024, the Danish short “A Study of Empathy” by Hilke Rönnfeldt was awarded Best Danish Short Film, positioning it for potential Oscar recognition.
OFF is more than just a film festival—it’s a vibrant hub for industry networking and creative exchange. Through its workshops, debates, and industry panels, OFF fosters collaboration among filmmakers, producers, and distributors.
The festival’s Pitch Me Baby contest provides aspiring filmmakers with the opportunity to pitch their ideas, gain mentorship, and secure funding for future projects.
With hundreds of local volunteers and growing attendance numbers, OFF has become a cornerstone of Denmark’s cultural landscape. Under Birgitte Weinberger’s leadership, OFF has revitalized its identity, blending tradition with innovation to showcase the best in short filmmaking.
Through its dedication to the art of short films and its support for emerging talent, the Odense International Film Festival continues to shape the global film industry and inspire audiences worldwide.
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