Years running: 2 (since 2025)
MosDocFest
International Documentary Film Festival with an annual awards event in Moscow.
About
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 October 27 -31, 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.
Awards
Grand Prix Best Feature Documentary
Best Short Documentary
Best Student 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 Travel / Outdoor Sports Documentary
Best Sports Documentary
Best First-Time Filmmaker
Best Cinematography
Best Director
Rules
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.
Premiere Requirements
No premiere requirement
Jury and Organizers
Valery Shanin
Irins Spirina
Slava Krasko
Alina Fedulova
Vladimir Shuvannikov
Jeremy Workman
Documents
Place
Russia
Москва
Official Website
Contacts
Email: mosdocfest@gmail.com
Tel. +7 977 673 30 35 (Irina Spirina)
Tel. +7 921 597 23 30 (Alina Fedulova)
Contact Emails
mosdocfest:
mosdocfest@mail.ru
Social Networks
Facebook
Vkontakte
- Opening DateDecember 10, 2025
- Earlybird DeadlineFebruary 05, 2026
- Late DeadlineAugust 25, 2026
- Extended DeadlineOctober 12, 2026
- NotificationsOctober 14, 2026
- Event Dates27 — 31 October 2026
Any genre and length documentary. Awarded to a filmmaker whose vision, storytelling, and execution stand out across any category. Recognizes exceptional directorial craft in bringing a documentary to life.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
Travel and Outdoor Films
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For documentaries that intimately explore the life, character, and journey of an individual or group. Whether it's a personal biography, artistic portrait, or in-depth profile, this category honors films that offer a compelling window into unique lives, achievements, and personal transformations.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For documentaries that celebrate, preserve, or explore the traditions, rituals, languages, and identities of cultures around the world. Ideal for films that highlight indigenous practices, ancestral knowledge, or the ongoing efforts to maintain cultural memory and identity across generations.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For documentaries that explore historical events, figures, or periods with depth and accuracy. Perfect for films that offer new perspectives on the past, reinterpret known stories, or bring forgotten histories to light through compelling storytelling, archival footage, or expert analysis.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For documentaries that focus on scientific discovery, research, innovation, or educational content. Ideal for films that explain complex concepts in accessible ways, highlight breakthroughs in science and technology, or aim to inform and educate audiences on important topics.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For films that delve into the complexities of human behavior, psychology, culture, society, history, or philosophy. This category is for documentaries that explore deep questions about how we live, think, and relate to one another—through reflective, investigative, or conceptual lenses.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For films that explore the natural world, environmental challenges, climate change, conservation, sustainability, or the relationship between humans and nature. This category celebrates documentaries that raise ecological awareness and inspire action through powerful imagery and storytelling.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For documentaries that focus on physical or mental health, medical innovation, disability rights, healing journeys, or lived experiences with illness. We welcome personal stories, social commentary, and informative explorations that highlight the human side of health and resilience.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
Any genre and length documentary.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
For debut filmmakers presenting their first completed documentary project of any length. The director must not have previously directed a publicly screened or distributed feature or short film. Proof of debut status may be requested.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
AI Sports
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Earlybird Deadline — €30
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Late Deadline — €40
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Extended Deadline — €45
This category welcomes boundary-pushing documentaries that challenge form and structure, including essay films, archival deconstructions, found footage, and hybrid works that blur fiction and nonfiction. Innovation is key.
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Earlybird Deadline — €22
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Late Deadline — €35
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Extended Deadline — €40
Travel and Outdoor Sports
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Earlybird Deadline — €30
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Late Deadline — €40
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Extended Deadline — €45
For documentaries up to 40 minutes. We welcome impactful short-form storytelling across any theme or style. Selected films compete for the Best Short Documentary Award and may receive additional audience and jury recognition. A short documentary we define as being documentary that is 40 minutes or shorter.
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Earlybird Deadline — €30
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Late Deadline — €40
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Extended Deadline — €45
For non-fiction films over 40 minutes. We’re looking for powerful storytelling, strong direction, and meaningful topics — from personal journeys to global issues. Selected films compete for the Best Feature Documentary Award and audience recognition. Any Feature Documentary up to 120 minutes
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Earlybird Deadline — €35
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Late Deadline — €45
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Extended Deadline — €55
For documentaries that celebrate the power of music or dance—whether exploring an artist’s journey, cultural traditions, musical innovation, or the rhythm of movement. Ideal for films that immerse the viewer in sound, performance, choreography, or the communities built around them.
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Earlybird Deadline — €30
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Late Deadline — €40
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Extended Deadline — €45
Student documentary films up to 45 min
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Earlybird Deadline — €30
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Late Deadline — €40
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Extended Deadline — €45
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