FiSH Filmfestival Rostock
Young, wild and brave
Since 2004, the FiSH Film Festival Rostock has been the spring highlight for emerging filmmakers from Germany and Northern Europe. At its core are two competitions: the nationwide contest JUNGER FILM and the Northern European competition OFFshorts – Young Baltic Cinema, which showcase the best short films from a new generation each year.
FiSH is much more than a film festival – it’s a platform for young perspectives. Here, people up to the age of 26 share what moves them, showing courage, conviction, and fresh points of view. The festival gives these voices space and visibility – in Rostock, throughout Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, and far beyond.
Talking, Not Just Watching
A defining feature of FiSH is its public jury discussions. In addition to the conversations with filmmakers, the jury discussions also take place live on stage and in front of an audience. This format offers insights into the jury’s work, constructive criticism, and new perspectives, for filmmakers and audiences alike.
But that’s not all: in cooperation with the Media Authority of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (MMV), the Media Literacy Award MV is presented each year, honoring the best media education projects in the region. Together with PopKW e.V., FiSH also crowns the best music video in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern at the PopFiSH Music Video Awards. Workshops, film talks, and community events round out the program, making FiSH a vibrant space for exchange, learning, and connection.
From Rostock to the World
With more than 4,000 visitors each year, FiSH is one of the most important cultural events in Northern Germany. It strengthens the film and media culture in Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, connects the scene across the entire Baltic region, and builds lasting bridges between young talents, audiences, and the industry. Since 2017, the festival has been held under the patronage of Minister President Manuela Schwesig. The Call for Entries opens every year at the beginning of November.