Ghent International Film Festival (Film Fest Gent)

Overview

Film Fest Gent is Belgium's most important international film festival. Founded in 1974 and held annually in October in Ghent -- one of Europe's most beautifully preserved medieval cities -- the festival presents competitive international cinema with particular distinction for its celebration of film music and its famous World Soundtrack Awards.

The World Soundtrack Awards, held annually during Film Fest Gent, is the film music industry's most prestigious standalone awards ceremony. The Ghent Philharmonic Orchestra performs live concerts of nominated scores, and the award recognizes the Composer of the Year, the Best Original Score, and other film music achievements. This music focus gives Film Fest Gent a unique identity among European festivals.

Ghent's extraordinary Gothic architecture -- the Gravensteen castle, Saint Bavo's Cathedral, and the medieval guildhalls of the Graslei and Korenlei -- creates a festival setting of exceptional beauty.

Key Sections

• International Competition -- films competing for jury prizes
• World Soundtrack Awards -- the world's most prestigious film music ceremony
• Belgian Film Program -- new Belgian features
• Documentary Program -- nonfiction features
• Retrospectives -- programs dedicated to major filmmakers and film music composers

What Filmmakers Should Know

Film Fest Gent accepts open submissions. For composers, the World Soundtrack Awards represent the most important recognition available specifically for film music. For filmmakers, the festival's music focus means that films with exceptional scores receive additional attention.

Major Awards

• Grand Prix -- Best Film
• World Soundtrack Awards -- Composer of the Year, Best Original Score
• Audience Award

Festival History

Film Fest Gent was founded in 1974 and has developed its distinctive film music identity over five decades.

See Also

For film music, see Audio and Music Tools. For Belgian cinema, see International Film Markets.