Chloe Heather

ÉCU - The European Independent Film Festival is dedicated to the discovery and advancement of the best independent films from around the world. The next, 21st edition of the festival, will take place in 23th, 24th and 25th of April, 2027 in Paris, France. ÉCU has forged a path for independent film since 2006 and the scope of its presence has grown to a global scale, and the festival is often referenced as being the European equivalent of Sundance, an honour that we don’t take lightly. ÉCU – The European Independent Film Festival provides the perfect arena for indie filmmakers to express authentic cinematic storytelling in the most compelling ways possible. As one of the World’s truly stand out independent film festivals, we embrace innovation and creativity and allow directors in competition to showcase their films to audiences who appreciate and love independent cinema. Filmmakers who are selected into ÉCU’s Official Selection join an active community of creatives who continually push the boundaries of indie cinema. Thanks to our over 50 partner festivals, partner organizations, film centres and film commissions, ÉCU’s goes on an annual world tour called ÉCU-On-The-Road, which gives award-winning films (as well as many of the Official Selection films) the opportunity to have their films screened to a broader, global audience. ÉCU-On-The-Road showcased films in over 77 countries around the globe in 2016 – 2018 at special ÉCU mini-festivals, partner festivals, cultural institutions and film schools, including an amazing seven day special festival in São Paulo, Brazil. The event was made possible through the support of Caixa Cultural, São Paulo and was a huge success. ÉCU also held special events in Berlin, Cannes and was part of festivals in Lebanon, Italy, Russia, USA, Romania, Austria, Denmark and ot­her countries. This gives ÉCU filmmakers great exposure to audiences that they may never have reached. We are proud to be a filmmakers’ festival!