MosDocFest (1)

Festival start: 21 November 2025      Festival end: 23 November 2025

MosDocFest Documentary Film Festival is an international film competition with an annual awards event in Moscow.

MosDocFest is an organization devoted to showcasing the best and brightest documentary films from around the globe, advancing the careers of filmmakers through screenings, networking events, and various panel and forums.

MosDocFest is an avid supporter of local and international filmmakers representing cinematic productions that embody the true spirit of the art.

From classic or original scripts to new cinematography and film techniques, each and every piece is the result of true emotion and expression.

We're glad you're here! We can't wait to discover the amazing documentary films you create and the global community that you build.

All best documentary films that were selected for the screening, will be shown on the big screen during the solemn final ceremony on November 19 - 22, 2026 in Moscow, Russia and will be able to struggle for the main prize and the title of the "Best Documentary Film". As well as for the prizes in the standalone nominations.

Cash Prizes: 1,000€

Grand Prix (1,000 EURO or 100.000 RUB cash prize)

Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Health/Disability Documentary
Best Nature / Ecology / Environmental Documentary
Best Human & Social Sciences Documentary
Best Science / Educational Documentary
Best Music / Dance Documentary
Best Historical Documentary
Best Cultural Heritage Documentary
Best Portrait / Biographical Documentary
Best Art / Experimental Documentary
Best Ai-generated Documentary
Best Documentary Series Episode
Best First-Time Filmmaker
Best Cinematography
Best Director

Please read these rules & regulations for submission very carefully PRIOR to submitting your film for consideration. By submitting your film to MosDocFest Documentary International Film Festival, you acknowledge that you have read and understand these conditions.

– We accept films only from authors or their authorized representatives who have the written permission from the author. All video, soundtrack, texts and music used in the film should not violate the copyright law. You may be asked to supply documentation supporting your claim. Violation of copyright is a sufficient justification for exclusion of the film from participation in the our festival.

– All films must be in Russian or English. Alternatively, have the Russian or English subtitles (with the exception of all films without words), regardless of the country of production.

– There is no limit as to how many films a Film Maker can submit. However, each film can only be submitted once in one single category. If your film is suiting in more than one category, then please choose the one you find most suiting.

– You may submit as many films as you like, but you must pay the appropriate submission fee in full for each film.

– Submission fees are non-refundable.

– Waivers or discounts on submission fees are not offered.

– Incorrectly completed entry forms, or missing information may lead to the disqualification of your submission.

– MosDocFest Documentary International Film Festival does not accept submissions sent by email or physical submissions sent by mail. Submission will accepted through submission partners.

– Do not send a press kit or other supporting materials unless asked to do so by the festival.

– There are no premiere requirements. Your film may have screened before.

– Films that have distribution are still eligible for submission.

– Films that have been broadcast on television, and/or are available to view in full online, are still eligible for submission.

– All documentary, animation, fiction films, created by professionals and enthusiasts not earlier than January 1, 2022 are welcome to participate in the contest.

– Our jury screens the films PRIVATELY (meaning: it's not a public screening!). Only officially selected films we'll screen at our annual event. Where one film from each category will be awarded.

– All films which are selected for the competition or Festival, will be informed only by emails & listed on festival web site.

– No inquiries or arguments will be entertained regarding non selected films. The decision off festival selection committee will be final.

– MosDocFest Documentary International Film Festival will communicate all details through email communications only, so please give authorizes email and respond to emails asap. No phone call inquires.