The 9th ANIMAFILM International Animation Festival will be held at the Nizami Cinema Center and the Surakhani Ship-Museum on May 13–17. The event is organized by the Azerbaijan Animation Association and ANIMAFILM LLC, with support from Azerbaijan’s Ministry of Culture.

ANIMAFILM, Azerbaijan’s first and only animation festival, has received 437 animated films from more than 60 countries around the world.

Following a comprehensive review and assessment, the festival’s selection committee determined the list of films that will compete in various categories. This year’s official program features a total of 34 films representing 21 different countries, distinguished by their striking visuals, inventive animation techniques, and strong engagement with global and local issues.

“The submission of approximately 450 films from over 60 countries this year is a testament to ANIMAFILM’s position on the global animation map and its growing international reputation. The festival will also include the 2nd ANIMAFILM International Pitching Competition, masterclasses with foreign experts, meetings with professionals, and various discussion panels contributing to the development of the industry. The event continues its mission of successfully acquainting representatives of the local animation industry with international experience this year as well,” Festival Director Rashid Aghamaliyev noted.