Adelaide Independent Film Festival 2026 Program Revealed

The Adelaide Independent Film Festival (AIFF) returns for its fourth edition this October with another diverse program of short films from local, national and international filmmakers, bringing fresh voices, diverse perspectives and compelling stories to the screen.

Held Saturday 3 and Sunday 4 October at The Capri and Mercury Cinema, this year's Official Selection, according to press material, "celebrates the art of short filmmaking, showcasing an outstanding collection of national and international short films. Curated for their originality, artistic excellence, and powerful storytelling, these films represent an eclectic and thought-provoking exploration of the human experience and the world we share."

The official selection features over 15 short films from across the globe, including the South Australian premiere of shorts The Wedding Day, I've Never Seen A Straight Banana, Print-Friendly, Chrysalis and more.

The Best Unley Short Film Award recognises outstanding filmmaking from within the City of Unley, with the two nominated flicks, If/When and Run Koala Run, competing for the award and a $500 cash prize.

The judging panel for this year’s AIFF is made up of actor, director and writer Tilda Cobham-Hervey, whose debut full-length feature t’s All Going Very Well… is set for release later this year, acclaimed actor Damon Herriman (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood, Justified, Mindhunter), filmmaker Alies Sluiter, actor, writer and producer Travis Jeffery and director of photography Emerson Hoskin.

Check out the full program of films at auteursforum.com.

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Speaking about this year's program, Festival Director of Adelaide Independent Film Festival Tom Kerby says, "Experience the charm of a 1941 Art Deco theatre and a cosy city cinema opened by Queen Elizabeth II, as we come together for two nights of extraordinary short films from six countries – stories that cross borders and cultures, and remind us of the universal experiences we all share.

"This year, we're delighted to present a refined programme of short films from local, national and international filmmakers, bringing fresh voices, diverse perspectives and compelling stories to the screen. We extend our sincere thanks to our major sponsors, the City of Unley and Community Bank Goodwood, and to our new accommodation partner, Oval Hotel, for their generous support. To all our sponsors, partners and volunteers, thank you for your continued commitment to the festival. We simply couldn’t do it without you. I look forward to welcoming you all to the festival from 3 – 4 October. Enjoy the films!"

Hon Kyam Maher MLC, Deputy Premier, Minister of Arts, Minister of First Nations, Attorney-General, adds, "It is my pleasure to introduce this programme for the 2026 Adelaide Independent Film Festival, taking place from 3 to 4 October at the heritage-listed Capri Theatre and The Mercury.

"This year's festival brings together a showcase of local, national and international filmmaking talent, with an evening of short films at the Capri Theatre followed by an industry-focused day of talks and discussions at The Mercury.

"The festival's eighteen awards, spanning South Australian dedicated categories and film craft honours, reflect the depth and quality of work being created both here in South Australia and further afield.

"South Australia continues to build a proud and thriving reputation as a home for independent film, and festivals such as this play a vital role in nurturing that reputation and the talent within it. I congratulate the organisers, participating filmmakers and everyone involved in bringing this festival to life, and I wish all attendees a wonderful and inspiring festival."

The Adelaide Independent Film Festival 2026 takes place at The Capri and Mercury Cinema on Saturday 3 and Saturday 4 October. Check out the program and buy tickets at auteursforum.com.