Next Step
First step make a movie, next step build your career.
Cannes
14.-22. May 2025
The Next Step Film Festival venue in Cannes for launching careers.
What happens when movie magic meets the pulse of possibility?
Our festival isn't just about watching films; it's about launching careers.
Picture this: A total of six finalists will enjoy a three-day, all-expenses-paid stay in Cannes.
They will be divided into two sessions: the first group of three finalists will attend from May 14th to 17th, with screenings and award ceremony on the 16th, 2025 at the Hilton Hotel Cannes.
The Next Step Film Festival
while the second group will join from May 19th to 22nd with screenings and awards ceremony on the 21st, 2025 at the Hotel Martinez Cannes
Both sessions will take place during the same period as the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival. You’ll be our special guest!
Additionally, with our special Pass, you’ll gain access to the Marché du Film, where you can freely explore booths and stands from production and distribution companies, TV networks, and other industry players. This is your chance to gather valuable insights and network with key industry figures, seizing golden opportunities that could shape your future.
We're on a quest to uncover the next generation of visionary storytellers.
We're not looking for just good films; we're seeking bold expressions of creativity that push the boundaries of what seems possible. Our mission is to discover creators who harness the power of film to share their unique perspectives and captivate audiences with their fresh, innovative approach. No matter the size of your budget, we believe that true talent shines through. If you can work wonders with limited resources, we know you're ready to tackle the big leagues. We believe that providing the right guidance and mentorship can unleash everyone’s full potential.
Whether you're a filmmaker on the rise or a cinephile looking for the next big thing, the Next Step Film Festival is your ticket to an unforgettable cinematic journey.
Awards & Prizes
Do you have what it takes to be 1 out of 6 finalists?
Picture this: a total of six finalists will enjoy a three-day, all-expenses-paid stay in Cannes. They will be divided into two sessions: the first group of three finalists will attend from May 14th to 17th, 2025, while the second group will join from May 19th to 22nd, 2025.
Both sessions will take place during the same period as the world-renowned Cannes Film Festival. You’ll be our special guest!
As our guest, you’ll enjoy screenings in top-tier venues, with the awards ceremony taking place in the exclusive Hotel Martinez, Cannes.
Additionally, with our special Pass, you’ll gain access to the Marché du Film, where you can freely explore booths and stands from production and distribution companies, TV networks, and other industry players. This is your chance to gather valuable insights and network with key industry figures, seizing golden opportunities that could shape your future.
Whether you’re an emerging filmmaker or a cinephile seeking the next big thing, the Next Step Film Festival is your ticket to an unforgettable cinematic experience.
We're on a quest to uncover the next generation of visionary storytellers.
In the previous edition, screenings of selected films and award ceremony took place on 22nd May, 2024, in the afternoon session from 3 p.m. at Hotel Martinez - Cannes.
The awarded talented filmmakers had the opportunity to attend the Cannes Film Festival as our special guests for three days. During their stay, the winners were guided through the Marché du Film, where they had the chance to gather valuable information and network with professionals from the global film industry.
An unforgettable and unique experience for our talents!
What journey are we talking about?
With our special Pass, you’ll gain access to the Marché du Film, where you can freely explore booths and stands from production and distribution companies, TV networks, and other industry players. This is your chance to gather valuable insights and connect with key figures in the industry, opening doors to opportunities that could shape your future. Remember, though—it's up to you to make those connections count! Approach these professionals, share your vision, and bring your A-game to leave a lasting impression.
What it takes to be 1 of 6 finalists
We're on a quest to uncover the next generation of visionary storytellers.
We're not looking for just good films; we're seeking bold expressions of creativity that push the boundaries of what seems possible. Our mission is to discover creators who harness the power of film to share their unique perspectives and captivate audiences with their fresh, innovative approach. No matter the size of your budget, we believe that true talent shines through. If you can work wonders with limited resources, we know you're ready to tackle the big leagues. We believe that providing the right guidance and mentorship can unleash everyone’s full potential.

Meet Umberto: Your Seasoned Red Carpet Guide
Umberto Cavalier is the founder of Cavalier Media and the driving force behind the Next Step Film Festival. With a marketing background and a passion for cinema, Umberto is dedicated to empowering young talent and shaping the future of the industry.
“Umberto introduced me to a descendant of the original creators of the Venice Film Festival, who then gave us his number.”
- Matej Rimanic,
Cannes Film Festival x TikTok Grand Prix Winning Director
Festival Timeline
01. 8. 2024
Opening Date
31. 12. 2024
Earlybird Deadline
28. 2. 2025
Regular Deadline
15. 4. 2024
Late Deadline
27. 4. 2025
Notification Date
14-22. 5. 2025
Event Date