Exploring Innovation: A Preview of the 2026 Locarno Film Festival's Pardi di Domani Program

The Locarno Film Festival's Pardi di Domani program for 2026 features a diverse selection of films by established and emerging filmmakers. The festival, held in Switzerland, showcases short and medium-length films that explore innovative forms of cinematic expression. This year's lineup includes works by directors such as Ben Rivers, Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke, Caroline Poggi, Jonathan Vinel, and Antonin Peretjatko, among others.
The Pardi di Domani program is a vital platform for filmmakers to experiment with new ideas and push the boundaries of cinematic storytelling. The festival aims to foster dialogue between different generations and traditions in the film industry, supporting the next wave of filmmakers who will shape the future of cinema.
The 2026 edition of the Locarno Film Festival will present 40 world premieres from 29 countries across three competitions. The Concorso Internazionale and Concorso Nazionale programs highlight emerging talents from international and Swiss cinema, while the Concorso Corti d'Autore showcases short films by established directors.
The festival's selection committee describes the lineup as a reflection of the conflicts and struggles that define our present and humanity. The films in the program aim to reinvent cinema and explore the power of visual storytelling, offering a diverse range of perspectives and narratives.
In addition to the Pardi di Domani program, the festival also features the Open Doors Screenings, which support filmmakers from underrepresented regions and countries where cinema is at risk. This year's lineup includes films from across the African continent, offering a rich tapestry of languages, beliefs, and imaginations.
The 79th edition of the Locarno Film Festival will take place from August 5 to 15, showcasing a wide range of films that reflect the diversity and creativity of contemporary cinema. Don't miss the opportunity to experience these groundbreaking works and discover the future of cinematic expression.