The 14th International Smartphone Film Festival commenced in Melbourne, Australia, on October 24, 2025, featuring an impressive collection of 57 mobile films from 21 countries. Co-hosted by the Mobile Innovation Network & Association (MINA) and SmallRig, the festival celebrates the rapid growth of mobile storytelling and highlights the innovative works of filmmakers across the globe.
This year’s festival showcases a diverse array of content, including 53 films and 4 virtual reality projects. The opening day featured the “International Mobile Innovation Screening,” which premiered 14 films from 12 nations, including notable entries from China, the United States, Nigeria, and India.
Panel Discussions and Industry Insights
Throughout the festival, attendees engaged in discussions that explored the evolving landscape of mobile cinema. A panel titled “Trend and New Directions in Smartphone Filmmaking” brought together filmmakers, directors, and industry specialists to discuss advancements in technology, aesthetic choices, and changing audience expectations in mobile filmmaking.
Max Schleser, founder of MINA and festival curator, reported a remarkable 97.56% increase in submissions from the previous year, indicating a growing interest in mobile filmmaking. “Smartphones are redefining cinema—this festival celebrates creators who embrace this new wave in filmmaking,” he stated.
SmallRig’s involvement as a co-presenter this year underscores the company’s commitment to supporting mobile filmmakers. Founded in 2013, SmallRig has become a leader in providing innovative solutions, such as camera and smartphone mounting rigs, lighting systems, and audio equipment, reaching users in over 160 countries.
Empowering Filmmakers Through Collaboration
In line with its mission to support creators, SmallRig launched the Mobile Filmmaking Co-Creation Initiative during the festival. This initiative invites creators to participate in tool development, promote exceptional mobile-shot films, and collaborate on new projects. The goal is to expand access to equipment, exposure, and creative partnerships on a global scale.
“Turning creators’ visions into reality is at the heart of what we do,” said Li Dan, a representative from SmallRig. “This program embodies our commitment to ‘Free Your Dream’—empowering storytellers to push boundaries.”
As the festival progresses, additional screenings will take place at Federation Square in Melbourne. Notable events include “New Voices,” which will highlight debut filmmakers and experimental works on October 27 at 18:00. The following day at 18:00, “MINA’s Creative Category & #EcoSmartphoneFilms” will showcase films that address environmental themes and innovative storytelling techniques.
The festival will conclude on October 29 at 18:00 with the “Innovation Category” screening, which will feature “Youth United Will Never Be Defeated” (Transform Project), underscoring social change narratives from various cultures.
“Smartphone filmmaking’s accessibility enables more great stories to be told in a lighter, more personal way,” remarked Zhou Yang, Founder of SmallRig. “We continue to innovate lightweight, integrated mobile shooting solutions that empower creators, making filmmaking more personal and universal.”
For more information on the festival lineup and updates, visit the official SmallRig website at https://www.smallrig.com/global/ and the MINA program at https://mina.pro/2025-2/. Submissions for the 15th MINA Smartphone Film Festival presented by SmallRig are currently open at https://filmfreeway.com/mina.