The 44th Istanbul Film Festival, organised by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV) and sponsored by N Kolay, takes place from 11 to 22 April 2025 across various venues in Istanbul. This year’s festival features a diverse lineup of 139 feature films and 15 short films, bringing together global cinema, Turkish premieres, and award-winning titles under one roof.
Now in its 44th edition, the festival continues its legacy of celebrating bold storytelling and cinematic innovation. Audiences can expect a curated selection of standout films from international festivals, along with fresh works by rising talents and master filmmakers. The program spans world cinema highlights, restored classics, and exciting new voices from Türkiye and beyond.
In addition to screenings, the festival hosts appearances by directors, actors, and cinema professionals, creating a vibrant space for film lovers and industry insiders alike. From contemporary dramas and compelling documentaries to retrospectives and special presentations, the Istanbul Film Festival remains one of the country’s most anticipated cultural events.
This year’s opening film is Cologne 75, directed by Ido Fluk, which debuted at a gala premiere during the 2025 Berlin Film Festival. For more information, be sure to keep up with the official IKSV Film Festival page.
