ROOTS
FILM FESTIVAL
2025
▼ APPLY BELOW ▼
ABOUT ROOTS FILM FESTIVAL
What is ROOTS?
On December 12 & 13, we will host the eighth edition of the ROOTS Film Festival: a gift from Filmhuis to The Hague and its residents. Everyone is welcome at this film event where filmmakers from The Hague take center stage, meet each other, and engage with the audience. It’s a unique opportunity for the audience to discover the talent of local filmmakers and experience the creativity thriving in their city.
The ROOTS Film Festival was initiated by Filmhuis Den Haag to provide a platform (and big screen) for filmmakers from The Hague. It also aims to foster connections among local filmmakers and contribute to a vibrant and positive film culture in the city.
The ROOTS Film Festival is supported by the Municipality of The Hague.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS + HOW TO APPLY
As summer begins, we’re pleased to announce the return of ROOTS Film Festival, taking place this year on Friday 12 & Saturday 13 December 2025. Supporting local filmmakers is at the heart of what we do here at Filmhuis Den Haag, so without further ado: we warmly invite you to save the date and join us for a new edition that builds on last year’s energy, with even more to see, share, and talk about.
Submissions are now open for this year’s edition. If you would like to share your work with us, please submit your film by Friday 19 September via the banner below. To be eligible, your film must meet the following criteria:
• Completed between September 2024 and the present;
• Maximum runtime 30 minutes;
• Not previously screened at Filmhuis Den Haag;
• You are based in the Haaglanden or Rotterdam region.
All applicants will be notified of the outcome around the 6th of October.
Every selected film will receive a screening fee of €125, and will compete for three jury awards and one audience award.
Make your mark where local stories take center stage. Submit your film to ROOTS Film Festival today!
ROOTS FILM FESTIVAL 2025: What to expect?
Friday: INDUSTRY DAY
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We kick things off on Friday 12 December with our Industry Day: an afternoon and evening full of conversations, workshops, and meetups focused on learning, exchanging ideas, and connecting with others in the field. After last year’s enthusiastic welcome, we’re excited to bring it back with new voices from filmmakers from the region and beyond. The full line-up will be revealed in due course.
FRIDAY NIGHT: OPENING NIGHT
december 12
We open the festival with a sparkling Festive Opening Night that sets the mood for the whole weekend. You’ll enjoy the very first screenings and hear the stories behind the films during engaging Q&A sessions with the makers. It’s the perfect opportunity to connect with fellow film lovers and meet the creative minds behind the scenes. We end the night on a high note with a lively celebration, making it a night to remember.
SATURDAY: FESTIVAL DAY
december 13
On Saturday 13 December, the festival opens up completely. Through films, talks, and encounters, the day offers a broad and lively view of what’s happening in filmmaking in The Hague and neighbouring cities (we are looking at you, Rotterdam). Whether you're into short films, music videos, or experimental work, or just curious to meet other makers, ROOTS is a chance to tap into the richness and creativity of the local scene.
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