MIFF unveils first 25 titles for 2026 festival, with Hugo Weaving drama and Hedwig celebration – The Melbourne International Film Festival has offered audiences an early glimpse at its 2026 line-up, unveiling 25 films and special events set to screen as part of this year’s festival.
Running from 6 to 23 August across Melbourne and regional Victoria, with MIFF Online extending nationally until 30 August, the 74th edition of the festival promises another expansive showcase of local and international storytelling.
Among the headline announcements is the world premiere of The Airport Chaplain, an SBS drama series starring Hugo Weaving and Shabana Azeez.
Inspired by a real encounter involving Melbourne Airport’s resident chaplain, the series follows a rule-bending airport chaplain navigating the emotional baggage of travellers passing through one of Australia’s busiest transport hubs.
Hedwig returns in a special anniversary event
One of the festival’s most anticipated special events will celebrate the 25th anniversary of cult classic Hedwig and the Angry Inch.
Director, playwright and star John Cameron Mitchell will attend MIFF in person to present a live commentary screening of the restored 4K version of the groundbreaking musical film.
The one-night-only event promises to be a major drawcard for longtime fans and newcomers alike.
Australian stories take centre stage
MIFF has also revealed six new titles supported through the MIFF Premiere Fund, continuing its long-standing commitment to Australian filmmaking.
Among them is Jebediah: Are We OK?, a documentary charting the journey of the iconic Perth rock band, while Hard as Puck follows Western Australia’s only para ice hockey team as they chase their sporting ambitions.
Other Premiere Fund projects include Digby & Camille, Mad Rush, Death of a Shaman and Sweet Milk Lake.
Global cinema highlights
The first announcement also features acclaimed filmmakers and award-winning performances from around the world.
Highlights include Dead Man’s Wire, directed by Gus Van Sant and starring Bill Skarsgård and Al Pacino; Rose, featuring a Silver Bear-winning performance from Sandra Hüller; and Queen at Sea, starring Juliette Binoche and Tom Courtenay.
Animation, documentary and international arthouse cinema are also strongly represented in the initial selection.
A festival for audiences everywhere
Beyond Melbourne, MIFF Regional will return to communities across Victoria, while MIFF Online ensures film lovers around Australia can take part in the festival experience from home.
With more than 300 titles expected when the full program launches next month, the first announcement offers an exciting taste of what’s to come.
The full MIFF 2026 program will be revealed on Thursday, 9 July, with the festival running from 6 to 23 August.
TV Central Other content HERE
Link to MIFF HERE
MIFF unveils first 25 titles for 2026 festival, with Hugo Weaving drama and Hedwig celebration
