Rotterdam Film Festival Unveils Nine World Premieres for 2026

The International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) has announced the first wave of world premieres for its 55th edition set to take place from January 29 to February 8, 2026. Organizers revealed nine new titles spanning the festival’s Bright Future and Harbour programming sections, highlighting themes such as sex, art, corruption, and murder.

The Bright Future selection focuses on feature debuts that showcase original narratives and unique styles. Among the films featured are I Grew an Inch When My Father Died, Let Them Be Seen, and Mayilaa. These films explore complex issues surrounding personal growth, societal norms, and the human experience.

The Harbour segment aims to reflect Rotterdam’s rich history as a port city by presenting a broad spectrum of contemporary cinema. This year’s selections include returning filmmakers such as Juja Dobrachkous, who brings Accept Our Sincere Apologies, and Gustavo Vinagre, who screens The Passion According to GHB, co-directed with Vinicius Couto. Other notable directors include Artemio Narro, with Art Is Dark and Full of Horrors, and Hanung Bramantyo, who presents The Hole, 309 Days to the Bloodiest Tragedy.

Festival director Vanja Kaludjercic expressed enthusiasm about the lineup, stating, “We’re excited to reveal the first wave of programming across Bright Future and Harbour, showcasing a range of titles that reflect the very heart of IFFR’s DNA.” She emphasized the festival’s commitment to discovery, highlighting the importance of giving a platform to emerging voices alongside established filmmakers.

Overview of Selected Titles

The films selected for I Grew an Inch When My Father Died feature two brothers navigating their relationship with the killer of their abusive father. The film portrays the complexities of crime and inherited guilt.

Another significant title, Let Them Be Seen, directed by Nolitha Refilwe Mkulisi, is a poignant exploration of Tapoleng, a town that once found solace in its church during apartheid. The film examines the emergence of new spiritual practices amid societal changes.

In Mayilaa, director Semmalar Annam tells the story of a mother-daughter duo embarking on a journey as travelling salespeople in Southern India. This heartwarming narrative focuses on their struggles and triumphs in the face of adversity.

The Harbour segments feature several intriguing works. In Accept Our Sincere Apologies, Juja Dobrachkous transports viewers to a decadent Venetian hotel, where the characters grapple with their desires and the confines of their environment.

In a different vein, Gustavo Vinagre and Vinicius Couto present The Passion According to GHB, a magical realist tale that intertwines intimacy and nostalgia, as the protagonist reflects on past relationships.

Erol Mintaş makes his IFFR debut with Earth Song, a story about a Kurdish woman living in Finland, exploring her complex heritage and the themes of dispossession and exile.

Meanwhile, Art Is Dark and Full of Horrors, directed by Artemio Narro, critiques the Mexican art scene through a satirical lens, showcasing the excesses and vulnerabilities of its key players.

Lastly, Hanung Bramantyo presents The Hole, 309 Days to the Bloodiest Tragedy, a gripping narrative involving an army officer investigating a series of violent events in East Jakarta, confronting deep-rooted corruption along the way.

Krakatoa, directed by Carlos Casas, offers a visceral journey through the eyes of a Javanese fisherman amidst one of history’s most catastrophic volcanic eruptions.

As IFFR prepares for its 2026 edition, the festival continues to champion diverse voices and bold storytelling, promising an engaging array of films that will resonate with audiences worldwide. The full lineup reflects a commitment to artistic exploration and social commentary, ensuring that filmmakers have the opportunity to reach wide audiences.