Ghent International Film Week 2025 Awards Its Standout Films

Kris Meester
Oct 6
2 min read

The Ghent International Film Week is a one-of-a-kind film event bringing bold and original cinema to the heart of Ghent. Taking place during Ghent Art Week, it offers a full week of challenging, innovative films from around the world—ranging from underground gems and experimental shorts to striking documentaries and daring feature films.

Formerly known as Obskuur, the festival has always focused on films that push boundaries. We believe cinema should not just entertain, but also provoke, inspire, and spark conversation.

With an eclectic official selection comprising over 30 films from across the globe, this year’s festival was a resounding success. Audiences embraced the diverse programming, from the absurd recycling project Dead, Red & Blue, through the terrifying underworld of Giant’s Kettle, to the deadpan hit The Accident.

Festival curator Kris De Meester reflected on this year’s edition:

“We were deeply moved by how strongly these films resonated with our audience. From absurdist humor to chilling explorations of the unknown, every screening sparked conversations long after the credits rolled. That’s exactly what we strive for—a festival where audiences aren’t just watching, but feeling, questioning, and engaging with the work.”

The Ghent International Film Week is proud to announce the winners of its 2025 awards, as determined by the jury:

Best Narrative Feature Film:

The Accident (Italy) by Giuseppe Garau

Best Documentary Feature Film:

Yalla, Baba! (Belgium, Lebanon, Netherlands, Qatar) by Angie Obeid

Best Experimental Film:

Giant's Kettle (Finland) by Markku Hakala, Mari Käki

Best Narrative Short Film

Scenario (Japan) by Kazunori Miura

Best Documentary Short Film

In My Body (Netherlands) by Annelien Nijland

Best Underground Film: