Mela
BUFF International Film Festival
Arts and film

BUFF International Film Festival

BUFF Filmfestival

A celebration of children’s and youth cinema in Malmö every March

Photo: Foto: Jonn Leffmann, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

BUFF International Film Festival is an annual event in Malmö, Sweden, dedicated to films for children and young people. Founded in 1984, it takes place every March and features screenings, awards, and activities focused on youth cinema.

Drawn for Mela from this festival's own symbols.
  • Held every March in Malmö, Sweden
  • Focuses on films for children and young people
  • Founded in 1984
  • Awards include the City of Malmö Children’s Film Award
  • Member of the European Children’s Film Association

What it is

BUFF International Film Festival is a yearly gathering in Malmö that spotlights films made for children and young audiences. The festival brings together filmmakers, educators, and young viewers to share stories from around the world. It aims to broaden perspectives and foster a love of cinema among the next generation, offering a platform for voices and experiences that might otherwise go unheard. BUFF is recognized for its commitment to quality and diversity in youth film, making it a key event for those passionate about storytelling for younger audiences.

Where it comes from

The festival began in 1984, growing out of a desire to create a dedicated space for children’s and youth films in Sweden. Over the years, BUFF has become a respected member of the European Children’s Film Association, reflecting its ongoing role in shaping the landscape of young people’s cinema. Its roots in Malmö have helped it maintain a strong local identity while welcoming international filmmakers and guests.

How it is celebrated

During BUFF, Malmö becomes a hub for screenings of new and classic children’s and youth films. The festival includes a range of awards, such as the City of Malmö Children’s Film Award and the Young People’s Film Award, recognizing outstanding achievements in the field. There are also special prizes from organizations like the Church of Sweden and the European Children’s Film Association. Alongside the film showings, attendees can take part in discussions, workshops, and pitching sessions, making the festival a lively meeting point for creativity and learning.

Joining in

Visitors to BUFF can expect a welcoming atmosphere, with events held across cinemas in Malmö. Whether you are a film enthusiast, educator, or simply curious, the festival offers a chance to see unique films and engage with filmmakers and audiences of all ages. Most activities are centered in Malmö’s city center, making it easy to explore the festival’s offerings and the city itself.

Sources and attribution

This page is Mela's own summary, written in new words. Its facts are drawn from the Wikipedia article BUFF International Film Festival, whose text is available under the CC BY-SA 4.0 licence, and from its Wikidata record (CC0). Each photo is credited to its author beside it. For the full account, read the originals below.

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This page was written with AI assistance from the sources listed above, and checked automatically before publishing. Spotted a mistake? Tell us. Last refreshed 2026-10-02.

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