21 October – 1 November 2026: Singapore International Film Festival returns with over 100 films from more than 50 countries, including Asian cinema, local productions and family-friendly screenings.

The 37th Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) takes place from 21 October to 1 November 2026, bringing independent, Asian and international cinema to screening venues across Singapore.

Founded in 1987, SGIFF is Singapore’s longest-running film festival. Its 2026 edition features over 100 films from more than 50 countries, with a programme spanning feature films, documentaries, short films, competitions and special presentations.

This year also marks a change to the festival calendar. Traditionally held between late November and early December, SGIFF has moved forward to October, introducing new opportunities for audiences to explore cinema beyond mainstream releases.

Image credit: Singapore International Film Festival

Highlights of Singapore International Film Festival 2026

Opening film – The Assassin(s): SGIFF opens with The Assassin(s), a procedural thriller about a detective, reporter and news editor who join forces to investigate a shooting despite intimidation from state agents.

Closing film – Vintage Violence: The festival concludes with Vintage Violence, a crime comedy in which an American livestreamer’s attempt to sell vintage denim in Tokyo takes an unexpected turn involving the yakuza.

Asian Feature Film Competition: Discover 10 films from emerging and established Asian directors, offering different perspectives on storytelling, filmmaking and contemporary life across the region.

Singapore Panorama: This section puts the spotlight on homegrown filmmakers, featuring 16 Singapore short films across three programmes. It offers an opportunity to discover local cinematic voices at different stages of their careers.

Southeast Asian Short Film Competition: Explore 24 short films presented across five programmes, highlighting the creative range and storytelling approaches of filmmakers from Southeast Asia.

Junior Explorers: A new section introduces younger audiences to international cinema through three films: Brave Cat, Julián and The Invisibles. Selected screenings offer relaxed, sensory-friendly experiences.

Undercurrent: Beyond conventional screenings, the expanded Undercurrent programme brings live performances and experimental approaches to cinema into the festival experience.

Our Take

Film festivals can sometimes seem like events intended primarily for serious cinema enthusiasts. However, Singapore International Film Festival 2026 offers plenty of opportunities for casual moviegoers to discover stories they might not otherwise encounter at their usual cinemas.

The programme’s emphasis on Asian and Southeast Asian cinema is particularly appealing. While international blockbusters dominate much of the mainstream movie calendar, SGIFF gives audiences a chance to explore filmmaking from different cultures and perspectives, including Singapore’s own creative community.

Families may also appreciate the introduction of Junior Explorers, while audiences interested in something beyond a traditional film screening can explore the Undercurrent programme.

With more than 100 films available, our suggestion is to begin with the festival sections that interest you most rather than trying to browse everything at once. Check each film’s synopsis, classification, screening time and venue before booking.

Service Information

  • Event: 37th Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF)
  • Dates: 21 October – 1 November 2026
  • Time: Varies according to screening and programme
  • Venues: Various locations, including Golden Village Bugis+, Cineleisure, Suntec City and VivoCity, as well as Oldham Theatre, National Gallery Singapore and Marina Bay Sands
  • General film tickets: S$15
  • Opening and closing screenings: S$25
  • Special presentations: S$20
  • Junior Explorers relaxed-screening combo: S$20 for one adult and one child below 16
  • In Conversation With sessions: S$10
  • Tickets: Available online through the official SGIFF website

EP Tip: Students, National Servicemen and seniors aged 55 and above can enjoy a S$2 concession on eligible regular tickets. Discounts cannot be stacked and do not apply to opening, closing or special presentations. Tickets are sold online, so book ahead rather than expecting regular counter sales at the venue.

More Information