The 37th edition of the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) will run from October 21 to November 1, opening with the South Korean political thriller The Assassin(s). The festival promises an exciting mix of international stars, acclaimed local films, and engaging audience events.
- Festival opens with South Korean thriller The Assassin(s)
- Bollywood star Aamir Khan to receive Screen Icon Award
- New Junior Explorers section offers sensory-friendly screenings
What happened
The Singapore International Film Festival is back for its 37th year, showcasing a wide range of films from October 21 to November 1, 2026. It kicks off with the South Korean political thriller The Assassin(s), featuring well-known actors Yoo Hae-jin, Park Hae-il, and Lee Min-ho. The opening event will also see attendance by director Hur Jin-ho and cast members Shim Eun-kyung and Park Sung-hoon.
This year’s festival lineup includes international stars such as Bollywood icon Aamir Khan, who will be honored with the Screen Icon Award. Khan will also attend a special screening of his acclaimed 2001 film, Lagaan: Once Upon A Time In India, marking its 25th anniversary. Renowned Japanese director Hirokazu Koreeda, known for his Palme d’Or-winning film Shoplifters, will receive the Cinema Honorary Award and present the Southeast Asian premiere of his latest work, Look Back.
Why it feels good
SGIFF offers a unique opportunity for film enthusiasts to engage directly with celebrated international filmmakers and actors through its 'In Conversation With' series. This year’s guests include Aamir Khan, Hirokazu Koreeda, South Korean actress Shim Eun-kyung, and Hong Kong actor Anthony Wong, among others. Such exchanges provide enriching insights into filmmaking and storytelling from diverse cultural perspectives.
The festival’s strong support of local cinema is inspiring, showcasing over 25 Singaporean productions that have gained recognition at major international festivals. This emphasis on local talent alongside celebrated global cinema encourages a vibrant and inclusive film community in Singapore, fostering appreciation across all age groups and backgrounds.
What to enjoy or watch next
Beyond star-studded premieres and awards, SGIFF introduces Junior Explorers, a new section dedicated to younger audiences, featuring relaxed and sensory-friendly screenings. This initiative starts with Brave Cat, a stop-motion animated film by Oscar-winning director Gabriel Osorio, aiming to make cinema accessible and enjoyable for children and families alike.
Film lovers should also look out for the Southeast Asian premiere of Look Back by Hirokazu Koreeda and the engaging local films including Ang Geck Geck’s Ah Girl and Nelson Yeo’s The House On The Moon. These diverse selections promise a rich festival experience that celebrates storytelling’s power to connect people and cultures.