Film festivals primarily aim to provide a platform for independent and international filmmakers to showcase their work, often overlooked by mainstream distribution channels.

The Cannes Film Festival, held annually in France, is considered the most prestigious and influential film festival globally, attracting top filmmakers and celebrities.

Film festivals provide independent filmmakers with a unique opportunity to network with industry professionals, secure funding and distribution for their films, and gain critical acclaim and recognition.

The Rotterdam International Film Festival, held annually in the Netherlands, is renowned for its focus on experimental and avant-garde cinema, showcasing films that push the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.

Film festivals play a vital role in promoting cultural exchange by bringing together filmmakers from diverse backgrounds, showcasing films that explore different cultures and perspectives, and fostering dialogue and understanding among different cultures.

The Green Film Festival, held annually in various locations worldwide, is dedicated to showcasing films that explore environmental issues and promote sustainability.

Film festivals play a crucial role in film preservation by showcasing restored classic films, providing a platform for discussing film preservation techniques, and raising awareness about the importance of preserving film heritage.

The Frameline Film Festival, held annually in San Francisco, is the longest-running LGBTQ+ film festival in the world, showcasing films that explore LGBTQ+ themes and experiences.

Film festivals play a vital role in supporting emerging filmmakers by providing opportunities for mentorship and guidance, offering awards and grants to promising filmmakers, and creating a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work.

The Busan International Film Festival, held annually in South Korea, is the largest film festival in Asia, showcasing a wide range of Asian films, including independent and experimental works.

Film festivals play a crucial role in film distribution by providing a platform for buyers and sellers to connect, generating buzz and interest in upcoming films, and helping secure distribution deals for independent films.

FESPACO (Festival Panafricain du Cinéma et de la Télévision de Ouagadougou) is the largest film festival dedicated to African cinema, held biennially in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.

Film festivals play a vital role in promoting film literacy by offering educational programs and workshops, screening films that explore important social and cultural issues, and providing opportunities for audiences to engage with filmmakers and critics.

The International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (IDFA) is the largest documentary film festival in the world, showcasing a wide range of documentary films from around the globe.

Film festivals play a vital role in film criticism by providing a platform for critics to share their insights and opinions, generating critical discourse and analysis of films, and helping shape public opinion about films.