Experience the Festival

More Than Just a Short Film Festival

Experience the Festival

The Underdog Film Festival returns to Wolfsburg for the last weekend of March 2027, inviting audiences to celebrate independent cinema in an atmosphere where creativity, conversation and community come together.

For two days, filmmakers, artists and film lovers from Germany and beyond will gather to share stories, discover new voices and celebrate the art of short filmmaking.

Whether you are a regular visitor to international film festivals or have never watched a short film before, the Underdog Film Festival offers a welcoming and accessible experience for everyone. There is no dress code, no red carpet and no expectation that you already know the industry. Just bring your curiosity—we will take care of the rest.

As of 2027, the festival is jointly hosted by Culture Club e.V. and Filmclub Wolfsburg e.V., combining the creative atmosphere that has shaped the festival since its beginnings with one of Wolfsburg's most established independent cinemas.

Why Short Films?

Short films are where many of tomorrow's filmmakers begin their careers.

They are bold, creative and often willing to take risks that would never be possible in larger productions. Within just a few minutes, a short film can make you laugh, surprise you, challenge your perspective or stay with you long after the credits have rolled.

Every year, thousands of remarkable short films are produced around the world, yet only a small number ever reach German audiences.

The Underdog Film Festival exists to change that.

Over one weekend, we bring together carefully curated films from Germany and around the world, giving audiences the opportunity to discover extraordinary stories they might never otherwise encounter.

Before the Festival

Before the Festival

The festival experience begins long before opening day.
In the weeks leading up to the festival weekend, we will once again present a series of workshops exploring filmmaking, storytelling and the creative industries. These events are designed for anyone interested in learning more about the creative process, whether you are already working in film or simply curious about what happens behind the camera.
By scheduling these workshops before the festival weekend, visitors are free to devote their full attention to the screenings while still benefiting from opportunities to learn, develop new skills and meet fellow creatives.
Our workshop programme is currently being developed. Topics, speakers and dates will be announced in the coming months.

Saturday – Discover

Saturday – Discover

Saturday is dedicated to discovering independent cinema. Throughout the day, Culture Shocks will host our competition screenings, presenting a carefully curated programme of German and international short films across fiction, documentary and experimental filmmaking.
Each screening offers something different. Some films will entertain, some will surprise and others may challenge the way you see the world. That diversity is one of the reasons short film festivals continue to attract audiences around the globe.
Between screenings, visitors are invited to enjoy everything else the festival has to offer. Our popular Tattoo Walk-In returns, giving guests the opportunity to take home a unique piece of art created by talented tattoo artists throughout the day. It reflects the festival's belief that creativity takes many forms and that different artistic disciplines can inspire one another.
As the final screening comes to an end, the festival continues with our informal Festival Social.
Over drinks, filmmakers, guests and visitors are invited to spend the evening together, discussing the day's films, exchanging ideas or simply enjoying good company. Whether you've travelled across Europe to present your latest short film or have just discovered your very first film festival, everyone is welcome to join us.
Some of the best festival moments happen after the credits have rolled, when conversations begin, new friendships are formed and future collaborations take shape.

Sunday – Celebrate

Sunday – Celebrate

Sunday brings the festival to its grand finale. The official Awards Ceremony will take place at the Kino im Hallenbad, presented in collaboration with Filmclub Wolfsburg e.V.
Before the awards are announced, audiences will once again have the opportunity to watch the festival's winning films on the big screen.
Following the screenings, the jury will reveal the winners in each competition category and celebrate the filmmakers whose work has made a lasting impression throughout the festival.
Together, the Awards Ceremony marks the conclusion of a weekend dedicated to storytelling, creativity and independent cinema.