By Stanley Okehie
The Jury for the 2026 Imo International Film Festival has announced the receipt of over 111 entries for this year’s edition of the festival.
The Head Juror, Amayo Uzo Philips, disclosed this to newsmen in Owerri.
He stated that entries were received from different parts of the world, including South Africa, Morocco, France, Sri Lanka, Serbia, Nepal, the United States of America, and several other countries.
According to him, submissions were received in various categories including Best Short Film, Best Screenplay, Best Make-Up, Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Actor (Male), Best Actor (Female), Best Supporting Actor (Male), and Best Supporting Actor (Female).
Other categories include Best Indigenous Film, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Picture, Best Director, Best Documentary Film, and Best Feature Film.
Amayo further revealed that the deadline for submission of entries has been extended to May 31, while the notification date has been fixed for June 30.
He assured participants and stakeholders of a fair and transparent process in the discharge of the Jury’s responsibilities.
The 2026 edition of the Imo International Film Festival, themed “Screen to Market: Turning Stories into Sustainable Enterprise,” is scheduled to hold from July 23 to 25 in Owerri, the Imo State capital.
The festival is expected to feature film screenings, masterclasses, cultural exhibitions, workshops, tours, and awards presentations.