Founded in 1982, ITFS ranks among the world’s most important events for animated film in all its aspects, and with its intersections with visual effects, architecture, art, design, music, science, games, et al. Every year, it attracts up to 100,000 visitors and industry professionals from all over the world with the best of high-quality animations and interactive works.
Animation and games are the central art forms of the 21st century and have proven to be extremely resilient in the coronavirus crisis. They combine technological innovation with social emancipation, entertainment with avant-garde, and thus reach all generations. The ITFS celebrates these art forms in screenings, exhibitions, talks, master classes, lectures, hackathons, live streams, VR events and live animated performances. We are planning a hybrid version for 2022 that combines cinema screenings and games exhibitions with digital applications and experiences in virtual space.
In 2022, ITFS will also focus on Austria as a partner country, which stands out in the field of animation and games particularly through innovation and experimentation. With the thematic programme „Wonderwomen – Women in Games & Animation“, already planned for 2020/21, we are taking up a relevant topic that we had already examined in 1996 with curator Jayne Pilling, asking how the situation has changed since then and which new artistic positions could establish themselves in the meantime.
With the motto „Black is Back!“, we would like to place the fundamentals of animation – reduction, simplification, and clarity – at the centre of ITFS and present and highlight these newly rediscovered tendencies in animation and games in various film programmes and panels. Because with the coronavirus crisis, many people have become aware of the desire to return to the essence and fundamentals of our existence in everyday life, too.
In theatres & the media library ONLINE+
All films, in all cinemas: Here you will find short- and feature-length films, which run in the comeptitions or special programms. International competition, Tricks for Kids or Young Animation – be inspired by the latest films of the national and international animation scene.
Onsite & online
In the heart of the city, we show animated fun for young and old every day on a large LED cinema screen. From 2 p.m. animated short films run in the family program and in the evening current animation blockbusters and cult films provide an atmospheric end to the festival day with free admission.
Onsite & in the media library ONLINE+
Especially for daycare groups and school classes in grades 1-7, the short film programs and workshops created and moderated in cooperation with vhs Stuttgart – Treffpunkt Kinder offer a coordinated way to immerse yourself in the exciting world of animated films.
