The organisers of the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival have announced that the event has once again been recognised by MovieMaker Magazine as one of the '50 Festivals Worth the Entry Fee in 2026'. This marks the sixth time the Cardiff-based festival, which qualifies British short films for both BAFTA and BIFA awards, has received this honour.
MovieMaker Magazine, a prominent US publication covering independent filmmaking, revealed its annual list on 26 May. The magazine is read widely by filmmakers, festival programmers, film educators and industry professionals, with its print and digital audience concentrated across North America and Europe.
What the Recognition Means
The '50 Festivals Worth the Entry Fee' list is considered a trusted indicator for filmmakers, singling out festivals that provide genuine value rather than just prestige. Selections are based on data, filmmaker feedback and editorial research, with emphasis on audience engagement, meaningful networking, industry access, quality presentation and fair submission odds.
Berwyn Rowlands, Festival Director of the Iris Prize, said: "The response from filmmakers has always been flattering and kind with many, especially those who attend the festival in Cardiff, commenting that they feel looked after by Iris, like being a member of an extended family. So, I guess we had a hunch that we were getting some things right. This recognition from MovieMaker, a much-respected magazine, confirms we are a good friend to filmmakers, and we will never take them for granted."
Celebrating 20 Years in 2026
The Iris Prize will return for its 20th edition from Monday 12 October to Sunday 18 October 2026. What began as a three-day festival in 2007 with 1,500 admissions has grown into a week-long flagship event attracting 11,000 admissions, accompanied by a month-long online programme.
To mark the latest recognition, the festival is offering a limited-time 30 per cent discount on Weekend Passes, providing access to all film screenings, events and exclusive festival moments across the weekend.
The Iris Prize is the largest LGBTQ+ short film prize in the world, supported by The Michael Bishop Foundation. The winner receives £40,000 to produce a new LGBTQ+ themed film in the UK.
Key sponsors for the festival include The Michael Bishop Foundation, Creative Wales, the BFI (using National Lottery funds), Ffilm Cymru Wales, Film4, University of South Wales, Co-op Respect, Ymddiried - Media Grants Cymru, Bad Wolf, S4C, Gorilla Group, Pinewood Studios, Attitude Magazine, Diva Magazine, Movie Marker, The Ministry Venues, Transport for Wales, Stadium Plaza and OUTflix. The festival also works in partnership with BAFTA Cymru and Pride Cymru.
