IFFR 2026: Nine World Premieres Announced in Rotterdam

The International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) has commenced its 55th edition with an exciting initial announcement: nine world premieres are set to debut across its esteemed Bright Future and Harbour programming strands. This first wave of selections offers a glimpse into the diverse and innovative cinematic experiences awaiting audiences at one of Europe’s significant film events. The festival, known for its dedication to independent and adventurous filmmaking, is scheduled to run from January 29 to February 8, 2026.

A Deep Dive into the Bright Future Strand Premieres

The Bright Future strand at IFFR is dedicated to feature debuts, serving as a vital platform for emerging filmmakers to present their unique cinematic visions. This year’s initial selection highlights three world premieres that exemplify the strand’s focus on original subject matter and individual style.

• “I Grew an Inch When My Father Died” (Philippines), directed by P. R. Monencillo Patindol, explores themes of loss, liberty, and inherited guilt. It follows two brothers grappling with the aftermath of their abusive father’s murder and their unexpected friendship with the killer’s son.
• “Let Them Be Seen” (South Africa, Germany), by Nolitha Refilwe Mkulisi, presents an affectionate portrayal of Tapoleng, a town where a new spiritual practice emerges, rooted in community and self-determination, offering a fresh perspective on belonging.
• “Mayilaa” (India), from director Semmalar Annam, is a heartwarming and sharp narrative about a mother-daughter duo. It chronicles Mayilaa’s journey as a traveling salesperson in Southern India, facing the challenge of fulfilling demanding obligations despite lacking sales experience.

Exploring the Harbour Strand Premieres

The Harbour program, reflecting Rotterdam’s identity as a port city, provides a broad selection of contemporary cinema, encompassing a wide array of genres and themes. This first announcement includes six world premieres from both returning IFFR alumni and debutantes to the strand.

• “Accept Our Sincere Apologies” (U.K., Italy), directed by Juja Dobrachkous, who previously featured in the Tiger Competition, is a surreal gothic fantasy. It delves into the story of Eva and the mysterious Contessa, both seeking escape from a haunting Venetian hotel that has become a cage.
• “The Passion According to GHB” (Brazil), co-directed by Gustavo Vinagre (an IFFR alumnus) and Vinicius Couto, is described as a magical realist gay bedroom odyssey. The film sees Matias reminiscing about past encounters while contemplating his future.
• “Earth Song” (Finland, Germany), Erol Mintaş’s IFFR debut, is a delicately directed drama reflecting on the Kurdish experience of dispossession and exile through the story of Rojîn, a Kurdish woman in Finland uncovering complexities of her past.
• “Art Is Dark and Full of Horrors” (Mexico), by Artemio Narro (a returning director), offers a corrosive satire of the Mexican art world. It depicts a week of intense preening, dealing, and partying, centering on star artist Chema and the vultures of the art market.
• “The Hole, 309 Days to the Bloodiest Tragedy” (Indonesia), from Hanung Bramantyo, follows army officer Soegeng’s investigation into gruesome killings in East Jakarta. His search for truth leads him to confront deep-seated corruption.
• “Krakatoa” (Spain, U.K., Poland, France), by Carlos Casas (another IFFR alumnus), is a visceral and psychedelic odyssey. It portrays a Javanese fisherman’s experience of a monumental volcanic eruption and his struggle for survival on a deserted island.

The Festival’s Enduring Ethos of Discovery

Vanja Kaludjercic, the festival director, emphasized that these initial selections embody IFFR’s core identity. She noted that the festival is built upon an ethos of discovery, celebrating both bold emerging voices and distinctive returning filmmakers who are instrumental in shaping contemporary cinema. The diverse programming, ranging from unconventional horror thrillers and misfit comedies to narratives exploring the complexities of belonging, aims to cater to various communities and audience curiosities. This commitment to showcasing a wide spectrum of cinematic expression underscores IFFR’s role as a platform for independent and innovative film.

FAQ Section

When does the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam take place?

The 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam is scheduled to run from January 29 to February 8, 2026.

What are the Bright Future and Harbour strands?

The Bright Future strand is specifically for feature film debuts, highlighting the work of emerging filmmakers with original and individual styles. The Harbour strand offers a broader selection of contemporary cinema, echoing Rotterdam’s port city identity by providing a diverse range of films.

When will the complete festival program be announced?

The complete program for IFFR 2026 will be revealed on December 16.

Conclusion

The announcement of these nine world premieres across the Bright Future and Harbour strands sets an intriguing tone for the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam. With a blend of established alumni and promising debutantes, the festival continues its tradition of championing independent cinema and fostering diverse narrative explorations. These initial selections promise a rich tapestry of human stories, artistic visions, and cultural insights, reinforcing IFFR’s position as a crucial hub for cinematic discovery and a celebration of film’s power to expand perspectives. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for the full program reveal, which will undoubtedly offer even more compelling reasons to engage with this significant international event.