Kharkiv International Film Festival (KhIFF)

Overview

The Kharkiv International Film Festival (KhIFF) is Ukraine's second most important film festival after Odesa. Founded in 2011 and held annually in September in Kharkiv, Ukraine's second-largest city and historic cultural capital of eastern Ukraine, the festival presents international and Ukrainian cinema to audiences in the eastern part of the country.

Kharkiv's cultural identity has been shaped by its position on the border between Ukrainian and Russian cultural influences. The city has a strong arts and intellectual tradition, with multiple universities and a vibrant creative community. The film festival reflects Kharkiv's aspirations to remain a cultural center despite the proximity of conflict following Russia's invasion.

Like Odesa Film Festival, KhIFF has faced extraordinary challenges since 2022 and its operational status during wartime should be verified by filmmakers planning submissions.

Key Sections

• International Competition -- films competing for jury prizes
• Ukrainian Cinema -- new Ukrainian features and shorts
• Documentary Program -- nonfiction features
• Short Films -- competitive short programs

What Filmmakers Should Know

Filmmakers should verify the festival's current operational status given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. When operational, KhIFF provides exposure to eastern Ukrainian audiences and contributes to Kharkiv's cultural life during a period of existential pressure.

Major Awards

• Grand Prix -- Best Film
• Best Ukrainian Film
• Audience Award

Festival History

KhIFF was founded in 2011 and has operated through Ukraine's increasingly difficult circumstances since 2014. The festival represents Kharkiv's commitment to maintaining cultural life even in the face of severe adversity.

See Also

For Ukrainian cinema, see International Film Markets. For the Odesa International Film Festival, see Odesa International Film Festival.