Zimt Festival (1)

Festival start: 20 March 2026      Festival end: 20 March 2026

Zimt Festival is a celebration of transformative storytelling, taking place on March 20, 2026, at the iconic Seraphicum in Rome. This unique event blends thought-provoking films with a holistic approach to personal growth, offering a space for deep reflection, discussion, and inspiration. With a carefully curated selection of films that push the boundaries of traditional storytelling, Zimt Festival aims to spark meaningful conversations about mindset, consciousness, and self-empowerment.

Set in the vibrant heart of Rome, the festival will bring together filmmakers, coaches, and an engaged audience to explore the intersection of cinema and personal transformation. It’s more than just a festival; it’s a platform where films become tools for growth, challenging the way we see ourselves and the world around us.

We are seeking films that go beyond the mainstream, with fresh perspectives and powerful narratives. Whether it's a short or feature film, we are particularly drawn to character-driven stories that explore themes like shadow work, trauma healing, wellness, conscious relationships, and mindfulness. At Zimt Festival, we value both the light and the dark — films that provoke deep reflection, regardless of the genre or tone.

At Zimt Festival, we believe in celebrating creativity and impact. Every edition, we award films that stand out for their contribution to personal transformation and expansive storytelling. Beyond the awards, selected filmmakers become part of a dynamic community, gaining exposure through exclusive interviews, panel discussions, and opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals. We’re building a space where filmmakers and audiences can learn, grow, and inspire one another.

AWARDS:

- BEST FEATURE FILM
- BEST SHORT FILM
- BEST DOCUMENTARY
- BEST MUSIC VIDEO
- BEST ANIMATION
- BEST EXPERIMENTAL
- BEST DIRECTOR
- BEST PERFORMANCE
- BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
- BEST SOUNDTRACK

SPECIAL MENTIONS:

THE AWAKENING
For a film that expands perception and consciousness through story.

THE FRINGE
For a film that courageously explores the unknown, the taboo, the liminal.

THE NEW EARTH
For a film that dismantles outdated paradigms and reimagines our future.

THE LIBERATION
For a film about breaking chains — social, mental, emotional.

THE HERO’S JOURNEY
For the film that most powerfully embodies the mythic arc described by Joseph Campbell — transformation through trial, return with insight.

THE VISIONARY REALMS
For audiovisual work rooted in altered states, expanded aesthetics, or mystical journeys.

THE DIVINE FEMININE
For a powerful film made by a woman, or celebrating feminine wisdom, intuition, and strength.

THE INNER DEPTHS
For a film that bravely explores the human psyche, trauma, healing, and transformation.

THE SECRET CHAMBER
For a film that transmits spiritual or esoteric wisdom, encoded truths, or metaphysical ideas.

THE SCHUMANN RESONANCE
For a work that honors the sacred frequency of Earth and our interconnection with nature.

DISTRIBUTION & COMMUNITY

Additionally, all selected films will be offered a non-exclusive distribution agreement with Zimt, providing a unique opportunity to monetize their work while remaining free to explore other distribution avenues.

Beyond streaming, filmmakers will become part of our vibrant community, gaining access to exclusive interviews and panel discussions.

We are looking for filmmakers with fresh perspectives, ready to share work that reaches beyond the mainstream.

Categories

We welcome submissions in the following categories:

• Shorts (under 60 minutes, any genre and format—including live-action, documentary, experimental, music video and animation—created at any time)

• Features (over 60 minutes, any genre and format—including live-action, documentary, experimental, music film and animation—created at any time)


Eligibility

Films can be of any genre and produced at any time. They don’t need to have a "happy ending" or follow a conventional inspirational arc—darker themes are welcome, as long as they provoke meaningful reflections on the nature of reality and the human psyche. We especially love character-driven stories!


Preferred Themes

Our curated programs focus on:
Shadow Work & Trauma Healing
Health & Wellbeing
Fitness & Sport
Conscious Relationships & Careers
Nature & Culture
Mindfulness & Spirituality

We encourage films that stretch the boundaries of awareness and expand consciousness. If your film embraces a bold perspective or challenges the mainstream, Zimt is your platform.

Submission Requirements
Please include the following materials with your submission:
• Credits
• Logline
• Poster
• English Subtitles

Distribution, Monetization, and Community
Selected filmmakers will be required to sign a non-exclusive distribution agreement with Zimt, offering a unique opportunity to showcase their work on a platform dedicated to conscious storytelling. As a startup currently in beta, our monetization features will be introduced after the testing phase. In the meantime, selected filmmakers will gain valuable exposure to an engaged audience committed to personal growth, mindset, and transformation. Beyond streaming, filmmakers will become part of our vibrant community, with opportunities to participate in exclusive interviews, panel talks, and discussions moderated by our life coaches—deepening audience connection and amplifying their impact.

If your film has the power to inspire, awaken, or engage on a deep level, we want to see it. Join us in building a collection of films that transform and challenge. We look forward to watching your work!