"Cul de sac" awarded at IFFR 2026!
For the 55th edition of IFFR, four Belgian films are on the program: "Conrad & Crab – Idiotic Gems", "A Survivor’s Tale", "Cul de sac", and "Venezia Diorama".
The International Film Festival Rotterdam has established itself as a major supporter of independent cinema worldwide. Renowned for its commitment to bold and innovative filmmaking, it provides a privileged showcase for both emerging and established filmmakers. A true hub for discovery and exchange, the festival serves as a leading European platform for the launch of new films and the emergence of talents from Asia, Africa, Central and Eastern Europe, and Latin America, thereby contributing to the diversity and renewal of the international cinematic landscape.
Claude Schmitz’s new film, Conrad & Crab – Idiotic Gems, had its world premiere in the Harbour section. The film is produced by Wrong Men and is handled internationally by Best Friend Forever. Also in the same section isA Survivor’s Tale by Micha Wald. Produced by Stenola Productions and sold by Pulsar Content, the film had its world premiere at CINEMANIA in november 2025.
In the short film category, Cul de sac! by Clyde Gates and Gabriel Sanson had its world premiere in the Tiger Short Competition section. Produced by SCUM Pictures, Naoko Films, and Taka, the film was selected to compete for the next European Short Film Award.
Nicolas Piret’s animated short film Venezia Diorama was selected in the Short & Mid-length section for its world premiere. The film is produced by Take Five.
Congratulations to Bilico, co-producer of the Italian-Belgian film Object of Riddle by Chiara Caterina, selected in the Tiger Short Competition.
In addition, Calle Malaga by Maryam Touzani (Velvet Films), a French-speaking Belgian co-production has been selected in the Harbour program.
Finally, let us note the presence of Need Production in the credits of Malek Bensmail’s film The Arab, which had its world premiere in the Big Screen Competition section.
The festival took place in Rotterdam from January 29 to February 8.
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