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34th Singapore International Film Festival Announces Dates, Building on a Resurgent Year

  • By Hood Mahadi
  • Apr 19, 2023
  • 2 min read
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The Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), Southeast Asia's longest-running and most significant film event, announced the highly anticipated dates for its 34th edition, set to run from Thursday, November 30, to Sunday, December 10, 2023. This year's festival aims to deepen its commitment to cinematic discovery and cultural exchange, following a highly successful and reinvigorated 33rd edition.


The 33rd SGIFF in 2022 marked a triumphant return to a full physical festival, showcasing 101 films from 55 countries. It notably introduced new program sections, 'Altitude' and 'Horizon,' which expanded the festival's scope to include established masters and eclectic global perspectives. The opening of the festival with "Assault," a Central Asian film, underscored SGIFF's dedication to showcasing diverse regional voices. This momentum sets a strong foundation for the upcoming 34th edition, promising an even more engaging and inclusive experience for filmmakers and audiences alike.


Founded in 1987 by Geoffrey Malone and L. Leland Whitney, SGIFF has cultivated a rich legacy as a pioneering platform for groundbreaking Asian cinema and a steadfast champion of Southeast Asian films. The festival's inception of the Silver Screen Awards in 1991 established it as the first Asian international film festival to feature a competition for Asian feature films and Singapore short films. Despite a brief hiatus in 2012-2013, SGIFF has consistently been instrumental in nurturing local talent and stimulating interest in Singapore's vibrant film history.


Over the decades, SGIFF has hosted and celebrated numerous cinematic luminaries and presented groundbreaking works, including films by Akira Kurosawa, Zhang Yimou, Edward Yang, Takeshi Kitano, Wong Kar-wai, Tsai Ming-liang, Apichatpong Weerasethakul, and Anthony Chen, cementing its reputation as a vital hub for film in the region.


Leading the charge for this exciting edition are Executive Director Emily J. Hoe and Programme Director Thong Kay Wee. Their combined vision continues to consolidate the festival's strengths, driving a new agenda for change and progress within the regional and international film landscape. Their focus remains on fostering real connections through open dialogue and championing independent films that tell fascinating stories from Asia and beyond.


Filmmakers are invited to submit their works for consideration in the 34th Singapore International Film Festival. Please note the following deadlines and fees:

For Feature & Short Films (Asian and Southeast Asian focus):


  • Early Bird Submission (No Entry Fee): [Typically May-July, exact dates to be confirmed on website]

  • Regular Submission (USD$ 25 non-refundable): [Typically late July-August, exact dates to be confirmed on website]

  • Final Submission Deadline: [Typically early August, exact date to be confirmed on website] (e.g., August 8, 2023, 6:00 pm GMT + 8)

  • Notification Date: Mid-October 2023


All submissions must be made via the Singapore International Film Festival website. We encourage applicants to review the full Rules & Regulations carefully.


For more information on the 34th Singapore International Film Festival, please visit:


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