short
films
NEW YORK STATE
INTERNATIONAL
FILM FESTIVAL
WE LOVE SHORT FILMS
Welcome to the New York State International Film Festival
(NYSIFF), a two-day celebration of independent cinema
held annually in Albany, NY.
Since 2016, we have proudly showcased over 450 short
films from talented filmmakers across the globe, fostering
a community of creativity, inclusivity, and storytelling.
NYSIFF accepts and screens a wide array of genres,
including drama, comedy, documentary, horror,
experimental, animation, and music video.
Each genre is awarded its own "Best" accolade,
recognizing outstanding achievements in filmmaking and
creativity. Our festival includes engaging Q&A panels with
filmmakers, providing unique opportunities for audiences
and creators to connect and share insights.
We believe in supporting filmmakers of all backgrounds
and experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned
professional or a new voice in the industry, NYSIFF offers a
welcoming platform to share your vision and join a global
community dedicated to the art of short film.
Nico is a passionate filmmaker and the visionary founder of the New York State
International Film Festival, which he established in Albany, NY, in 2016. With a deep
love for storytelling and creating new productions, Nico has dedicated his career to
bringing innovative films to life and providing a platform for emerging talent.
A graduate of Hudson Valley Community College in 2013 with a degree in Broadcast
Communication and TV Production, Nico began his career at Spectrum News in
Albany, where he worked for four years honing his skills in media and production. In
pursuit of his creative ambitions, he launched his own production company, focusing
on short films, music videos, and documentaries.
Nico’s work has been showcased at numerous film festivals across the United States
and Europe, earning him accolades and awards for his compelling storytelling and
cinematic vision. As a festival director and jury member, he brings his expertise and
enthusiasm to curating and celebrating the art of filmmaking.
Through the New York State International Film Festival, Nico continues to inspire,
connect, and champion the global film community, fostering a vibrant space for
creativity and collaboration.
Yunus Yildirim
Yunus Yildirim is a distinguished filmmaker with over a decade of experience in
directing, producing, and cinematography. Renowned for his award-winning short film
Berxen Kulek (Lame Lambs), which received the Best Short Film award at the Harlem
International Film Festival and was showcased at more than 20 international festivals,
including the prestigious Antalya Golden Orange Film Festival, Mr. Yildirim has
established himself as a prominent voice in the global film industry.
As the founder of Ebabil Film, Mr. Yildirim has produced numerous acclaimed works,
including the 13-episode documentary series American Dream (2016), broadcast on
TRT Documentary, and I Can’t Breathe (2020), a powerful exploration of racial injustice
that garnered significant media attention. His recent contributions include serving as
the Cinematographer for Merchant Ivory (2023), a documentary celebrating the life and
legacy of Academy Award-winning filmmaker James Ivory.
Mr. Yildirim’s extensive portfolio spans documentaries, short films, and original series,
with his work engaging diverse audiences across multiple platforms. Fluent in Turkish,
English, and Kurdish, he brings a rich cultural perspective and technical expertise to
every project, solidifying his reputation as a creative force in the cinematic arts.
Carl Kinlan
Born in New Rochelle, NY, and later moving to Suffern in 1971, Carl brings a rich and
diverse background to the New York State International Film Festival jury. An extremely
passionate amateur filmmaker, Carl grew up in downstate New York, deeply inspired by
reruns of Star Trek, The Twilight Zone, and classic Clint Eastwood Westerns.
Carl earned his Bachelor's degree in History and Spanish from SUNY Albany, setting the
foundation for a lifetime of global exploration and cultural engagement. He lived, studied,
and worked in Japan for four years before spending six years in China, experiences that
have profoundly shaped his appreciation for storytelling and international cinema.
As a jury member, Carl combines his love for film with his unique global perspective,
bringing insight and enthusiasm to the festival's mission of celebrating creativity and
connecting filmmakers from around the world.
Nico Altekin
Festival Jurors
Where Every Story Shines
Celebrating Short Films, Big Dreams.
SPONSORSHIP
The New York State International Film Festival is an
officially recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization,
making sponsorship fees tax-deductible.
We provide exceptional and thrilling opportunities to
connect your brand with local and international
filmmakers and their audiences in the Capital
Region.
Your brand logo could feature in festival booklets, on
step-and-repeat banners, posters, and our website.
Additionally, we can showcase your commercial
between movie screenings.
For further details, please reach out to
nysifilmfest@gmail.com.
fILMMAKERS
NOTES
This experience was increadible for
me to join this film festival at the first
time. The screening was a moment
collaborated with local film lover
audiences and the filmmakers. It was
so beautiful moment as well as the
city of lovely Albany. And this film
festival really took care of each film
which comes with QA panel
discussion. Many questions to
understand deeply together. Thank
you so much and I appreciate this
opportunity.
Ishizaki Masataka
What a WONDERFUL experience.
You never know what to expect
when you attend a festival for the
first time, but we were so
impressed. Nico - you put on such
a friendly and warm festival. I really
love how much you care about the
films and the filmmakers and give
everyone ample time to speak
about their art. The venue is lovely
and the entire process fills me with
such warm feelings. Looking
forward to attending again!
Kacie Newport
Having my film screened at the
NYSIFF was a wonderful
experience that I would
recommend to any filmmaker.
The staff were welcoming, the
crowd was enthusiastic, and
the films showcased were truly
special. To top it all off, each
filmmaker had the opportunity
to answer audience questions
after their film was screened.
Do not miss this festival!
Paul McGreevy
nysiff
short films
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