The First Frame initiative brings together students from over 50 film courses, universities, and further education institutions from around Ireland to view a curated selection of student films in competition. 

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Prizes are awarded to the top films in each category  - fiction, documentary, experimental, and animation - and the screenings provide excellent opportunities for course leaders and students alike to network with their peers as part of a national film event. Students are also given the opportunity to hear from industry professionals in workshops held alongside the screenings of their work. 

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Now in its seventh year, First Frame showcased two programmes of student films on two fully student-dedicated days during DIFF 2025: one in Cork in collaboration with UCC, and one in Dublin. We also welcomed Liz Bales from the Industry Trust to give this year's presentations, discussing creative copyright, product lifecycle/territorial licensing, and impacts of infringement with students. 

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The winners of the First Frame competition received an invaluable Set Etiquette training course from the National Talent Academy Film & TV Crew East. Designed to provide participants with the confidence and skills to excel from their first day on a professional set, this is a unique opportunity to get industry expert training and insight into a career in Film & TV production. 

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Submissions for 2026 will open soon. Information will be available on this page. 

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First Frame winners and special mentions 2025

Best Experimental Film & Best Overall Film: Losing My Body dir. Ziga Ciber, IADT 

Experimental Film Special Mention: Digital Dexterity dir. Eve Lucas, TUD