FirstCut Take 12
How we started, who we are now, and how it all came together- find out all about us!
How
It All Began
FirstCut was started in 2015 at FLAME University, when a group of Film and Television students came together with a simple idea. They wanted to create a festival for students, by students. They knew that while young filmmakers are full of creativity and enthusiasm, they often don’t have the resources to compete with professionals at larger festivals.
FirstCut was created to change that, giving student-made films their own space in the spotlight. From the very beginning, it has been about celebrating experimentation, collaboration and the belief that every story, no matter how big or small, deserves an audience.
Who
We Are Today
What began as a small campus initiative has now grown into India’s largest student-run film festival. From starting local at FLAME University, FirstCut has opened its doors to the world and has received films from more than 70 countries. In 2025, FirstCut Take 11 received over 650 submissions from students representing 75+ countries, marking its most global edition yet.
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Along with being a platform for young filmmakers, FirstCut is also a celebration of cinema itself. Each edition brings together film screenings, workshops, masterclasses, panel discussions and conversations with industry professionals. We also host a lively carnival that is entirely cinema and movie themed, adding to the festival atmosphere and making FirstCut a true celebration of film in every sense.
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The festival is run entirely by students and stays true to its founding spirit of empowering young voices, encouraging dialogue and building a community of storytellers. At its core, FirstCut is more than a showcase of films. It is a space where students can share their vision, learn from industry leaders and experience the magic of storytelling that connects and inspires.
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Our
Chairs
Ayush Kumar
Anoushka Sethia
