ZFF in a Nutshell
The ZFF is more than just a festival. It celebrates films year-round, culminating in an eleven-day celebration when Zurich becomes a stage for great cinema.
The ZFF is more than just a festival. It celebrates films year-round, culminating in eleven days of festivities when Zurich becomes a stage for great cinema. As one of the ten most important film festivals in Europe, the ZFF brings Hollywood to the Limmat and connects 135,000 visitors, filmmakers, emerging talents, and industry decision-makers. Here, audiences experience films that go on to win Oscars and meet today's and tomorrow's stars. As the Home of Talents, the ZFF is committed to supporting emerging talent, promoting new voices, and fostering an environment of exchange and mentorship. With ZFF for Kids, even the youngest film fans can experience the magic of cinema firsthand. With the Zurich Summit – the Davos of the film industry – the ZFF hosts one of Europe’s most important industry gatherings. The ZFF combines glamour with relevance, local roots with international appeal, and creates cinematic moments for everyone – …’cause life is better with movies.
The 22nd Zurich Film Festival will take place from September 24 to October 4, 2026.
- Program Release: September 9, 2026
- Start of Ticket Pre-Sale: September 14, 2026
ZFF Masters
The ZFF Masters give audiences the opportunity to gain insight into the creative work of leading figures in the film industry. During moderated discussions, directors, actors, and other filmmakers share details about their careers, working methods, and experiences in the film industry. The ZFF Masters establish a direct connection between the audience and filmmakers, bringing personal stories and exciting behind-the-scenes insights to life.
These discussions are open to the public and aimed at the film industry and all festival attendees.
This year's ZFF Masters dates, venues, and guests will be announced on September 9.
ZFF Talks
ZFF Talks provide a space for conversations and discussions that offer new perspectives on film, culture, academia, and social issues. The format fosters direct dialogue between filmmakers, experts, and the audience. It complements the Zurich Film Festival’s film program by offering engaging conversations and in-depth exploration of topics.
The ZFF Talks take place at the festival center. They are free and open to all festival attendees who wish to explore relevant topics beyond what’s on the screen.
Further information about this year's ZFF Talks will be announced on September 9.
Cinema in Concert
The International Film Music Competition (IFMC) is an annual event held during the Cinema in Concert gala at the Zurich Film Festival. Up-and-coming composers from around the world compete by submitting original compositions written specifically for a short film. These compositions demonstrate how music brings moving images to life. An international jury selects three finalists from the submitted works. These compositions are then premiered live by the Tonhalle Orchestra Zurich during the film music concert at the Tonhalle Zurich. The winning composition receives the Golden Eye for Best International Film Music.
The Zurich Film Festival, Tonhalle-Gesellschaft Zürich AG, and Forum Filmmusik organize the Cinema in Concert Gala and the International Film Music Competition.
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