The Prague Actors and Filmmakers Film Festival (PAFFF) returns to Kino 35 at the French Institute this weekend, running June 12–15. With 27 films from 19 countries and a program focused on cross-cultural storytelling, the festival aims to foster dialogue and artistic collaboration among actors, directors, and audiences.
Organized in partnership with several embassies and international cultural organizations, PAFFF 2025 offers a platform for both emerging and established creators. Attendees can expect a program of feature films, shorts, and documentaries, followed by live Q&As, panel discussions, and networking events.
Diverse programming highlights cross-cultural storytelling
The festival opens Thursday, June 12, with the feature film A Spartan Dream (pictured at top), a U.S.-Greek co-production by director M. Achilles. The whimsical feature blends magical realism and historical commentary, following a history buff in 1980s Greece who attempts to revive the Peloponnesian War in a bid to impress a local woman.
Set against the backdrop of Melina Mercouri’s real-life efforts to reclaim the Parthenon Marbles, the film explores themes of identity, heritage, and fantasy. A post-screening Q&A with the director will follow.
Shorts screening in the 2025 PAFFF lineup include Italy’s The Imagination of a Child, the Czech-French co-production Orange Cake, and the Indonesian documentary Where My Home Is. The American documentary When Elevators Were Racist adds a historical perspective on urban inequality in the United States.
The Maltese short Jena will receive a special screening attended by the Ambassador of Malta to the Czech Republic, underscoring the event’s growing diplomatic support. Filmmakers and artists from countries including Greece, Malta, Sweden, Turkey, India, and Indonesia are also scheduled to attend in person.
Collaboration and recognition at the heart of the festival
More than just a showcase for independent cinema, PAFFF emphasizes the collaborative relationship between actors and filmmakers. Founded as a space to celebrate this dynamic, the festival continues to attract international attention for its inclusive programming and artistic focus.
“This festival is not just about screening films—it’s about connection, dialogue, and inspiring collaboration between artists across borders,” says Festival Director Vassia Bantiou.
Each day features a packed schedule of screenings followed by Q&A sessions, allowing audiences to engage directly with creators. Panel discussions and networking events provide additional opportunities for exchange and collaboration.
The festival will conclude Sunday, June 15, with an award ceremony recognizing excellence in acting, directing, and storytelling. The event is IMDb-qualified and officially recognized by the Czech Film Commission, giving awardees added visibility in the local industry.
Screenings take place at Kino 35, located in the French Institute at Štěpánská 35 in central Prague. Festival passes and individual screening tickets are available online.
For the full program and registration details, visit the official Prague Actors and Filmmakers website.
