Bucharest International Dance Film Festival 2025
Background & History
The Bucharest International Dance Film Festival (BIDFF) is Romania’s only event dedicated exclusively to dance films, launched in 2015 by choreographer Simona Deaconescu and film producer Anamaria Antoci. Founded to promote the dance film genre, BIDFF showcases cinematic works where movement and the body are central, exploring strong narratives through dance. Over the years, it has grown into a significant cultural event in Eastern Europe, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration between filmmakers, choreographers, and visual artists. The festival reflects contemporary realities through annual themes, with the 2025 edition, “Keep Calm and Keep On Moving,” emphasizing resilience and transformation in times of crisis. BIDFF has earned accolades, including the 2020 AFCN Award for promoting Romanian culture globally and a 2016 National Center for Dance Award for Deaconescu’s contributions to Romania’s dance scene.
Event Highlights
- Film Screenings: A curated selection of short dance films (fiction, documentary, animation) under 20 minutes, focusing on movement and the body, presented in premiere screenings from Europe, Asia, and the Americas.
- VR Showcase: Immersive virtual reality experiences that explore dance and movement, offering audiences a new way to engage with performative art.
- Expand Platform: Supports developing cinematographic projects and fosters networking between the dance and film industries.
- Workshops and Lectures: Intensive short film workshops, masterclasses, and public presentations by influential artists, scholars, and producers.
- Community and Exchange Events: Performances, concerts, and discussions encouraging dialogue on technology, memory, and the future of the body.
Date & Duration
Dates: September 11–14, 2025
Duration: 4 days
Venue / Location
The festival takes place across multiple iconic venues in Bucharest, Romania. The main venue is Cinema Elvire Popesco, located at Institut Français de Roumanie, Bulevardul Dacia 77, București 020051, Romania. Other notable locations include Grădina cu Filme – Cinema and More, CNDB – National Center for Dance Bucharest, SAC@Malmaison, and Teatrul Masca, with additional partner venues throughout the city, enhancing the urban cultural experience.
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Contact Information
Email: contact@bidff.ro
Website: www.bidff.ro
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bucharestinternationaldancefilmfestival
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bidff.ro
Ticket Information
- Purchase Options: Tickets for the Bucharest International Dance Film Festival (BIDFF) 2025 are available online through the official website (www.bidff.ro) and at venue box offices, subject to availability. Online purchases are recommended to secure spots, especially for popular screenings and events.
- Ticket Prices: Specific prices for 2025 have not yet been announced. Based on previous editions, expect single screening tickets to cost approximately €3–€5 (around $3.30–$5.50 USD). Festival passes, granting access to multiple events, typically range from €15–€25 (approximately $16.50–$27.50 USD).
- Free Events: Select community events, such as certain outdoor screenings or public discussions, offer free entry, making the festival accessible to a wider audience. Details of free events will be listed on www.bidff.ro closer to the festival dates.
- Workshops and Masterclasses: Workshops require separate registration and may incur additional fees, which vary depending on the session (typically €10–€30 or $11–$33 USD in past years). Application details and costs will be available on the festival website by mid-2025.
- VIP and Special Seating: BIDFF does not typically offer VIP packages or reserved seating options. Festival passes provide access to most events (excluding workshops requiring registration), ensuring an inclusive experience for all attendees.
- Payment Methods: Online ticket purchases accept major credit/debit cards and possibly mobile payment platforms, as specified on the festival website. Venue box offices may accept cash (Romanian Leu) and card payments, though cash is recommended for smaller venues.
Cultural Experience
BIDFF celebrates the fusion of contemporary dance and cinema, showcasing innovative films and performances that explore movement as a universal language. Visitors can expect experimental arthouse films, live dance performances, and immersive VR experiences that challenge conventional storytelling. The festival embraces Romania’s vibrant arts scene, with events reflecting Bucharest’s dynamic urban culture. Attendees engage with global artists, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and the body’s role in art, set against the backdrop of the city’s eclectic venues, from historic cinemas to modern galleries.
Food & Drinks
While BIDFF itself does not focus on food, Bucharest’s festival venues are surrounded by diverse dining options. Visitors can enjoy traditional Romanian dishes like sarmale (cabbage rolls), mămăligă (polenta), and mici (grilled sausages) at nearby restaurants. Local desserts such as papanasi (fried doughnuts with cheese and jam) are a must-try. Many venues, like Grădina cu Filme, offer on-site cafes with light snacks, coffee, and local wines or craft beers, enhancing the festival atmosphere.
Family & Accessibility
BIDFF is generally suitable for older children and adults due to its focus on arthouse films and contemporary dance, which may include complex themes. Family-friendly events, such as select community performances, are often available, though specific details will be confirmed closer to the event. Accessibility features vary by venue, but Cinema Elvire Popesco and CNDB typically offer wheelchair access and facilities for those with mobility needs. Visitors are encouraged to contact venues directly or check www.bidff.ro for detailed accessibility information.
Getting There
Bucharest is accessible via Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP), approximately 18 km from the city center. From the airport, taxis, ride-sharing apps (e.g., Uber), or the 783 express bus connect to downtown Bucharest, with fares around $10–$15 USD for taxis or $0.50 USD for buses. Public transport within the city includes metro, buses, and trams, with single tickets costing about $0.60 USD. Many BIDFF venues, including Cinema Elvire Popesco, are centrally located and reachable by metro (e.g., Piața Romană station). Limited parking is available near venues, so public transport or walking is recommended in Bucharest’s busy center.
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FAQ's
What is BIDFF 2025 about?
BIDFF 2025, themed "Keep Calm and Keep On Moving," is Romania’s only dance film festival, held September 11–14 in Bucharest. It showcases short films (fiction, documentary, animation), VR experiences, live performances, workshops, and lectures focusing on movement, resilience, and the body, hosted at venues like Cinema Elvire Popesco (Bulevardul Dacia 77) and CNDB.
How do I buy tickets, and are any events free?
Purchase tickets online at www.bidff.ro or at venue box offices. Single tickets cost ~ €3–€5 ($3.30–$5.50 USD), festival passes ~ €15–€25 ($16.50–$27.50 USD). Free events include select outdoor screenings and talks at Grădina cu Filme. Check the website in summer 2025 for sales and free event schedules.
How can filmmakers submit work?
Submit up to two short films (max 20 minutes, Full HD, made since 2023) or VR experiences via FilmFreeway by June 22 (regular) or July 12 (late), 2025. Focus on movement or the body. Winners get €1,000 (Best International Film) or €500 (Jury Prize), plus free event access (excluding workshops).
Is BIDFF accessible for international visitors?
Yes, films have English subtitles, and lectures are in or translated to English. Bucharest’s Henri Coandă Airport (OTP) is 18 km away, with taxis (~$10–$15 USD), Uber, or 783 bus (~$0.50 USD) to central venues like Cinema Elvire Popesco, reachable via metro (Piața Romană).
Are there family-friendly or accessibility options?
Suitable for older kids and adults; some community events are family-friendly. Venues like Cinema Elvire Popesco offer wheelchair access. Contact contact@bidff.ro for accommodations like priority seating. Accessibility details will be on www.bidff.ro by mid-2025.
