Tirana has opened its doors to the inaugural edition of the Mediterranean Film Festival (TMFF)—a major cultural event uniting films, actors, directors, and producers from around the world to share with the Albanian public some of the most powerful and thought-provoking stories from across the Mediterranean.

Out of a total of 3,030 film submissions, the festival has selected works that address pressing and relevant themes such as migration, social inequality, and the relationship between citizens and the state.

These films explore universal human struggles in the pursuit of a fairer and better future, bringing to the screen emotional narratives that help audiences better understand the challenges of our time.

“With a group of young men and women, we have worked to bring outstanding artists, actors, directors, and producers from across the Mediterranean to this festival. In 2025, Tirana has been named the Mediterranean Capital of Art and Culture. In this new era, Tirana assumes the central role as the capital of Mediterranean film. Let this festival be the meeting point of ideas, projects, and dreams,” said Ledion Zoi, the festival director.

Running through May 4, the festival offers a rich program of film screenings, as well as workshops and in-depth discussions with renowned professionals from the film industry.

The guest of honor for this edition is acclaimed actor Arben Bajraktari, while the jury, chaired by director and producer Eno Milkani, will present awards in five categories to honor participating artists.