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Singapore International Film Festival Announces 2025 Dates, Poised for Continued Growth in 36th Annual Edition

  • By Hood Mahadi
  • May 15
  • 2 min read
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The Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), a cornerstone of Southeast Asian cinema, is pleased to announce the dates for its 36th edition, slated to take place from Thursday, November 27, to Sunday, December 7, 2025. This upcoming festival aims to further solidify its position as a leading cultural event, building on the significant achievements of its recent editions.


The 35th SGIFF in 2024 was a resounding success, presenting 105 films from 45 countries and opening with the highly anticipated "Stranger Eyes." The festival celebrated the artistry of filmmakers with its Silver Screen Awards, including "Mongrel" taking the Best Asian Feature Film prize, and a special tribute to Jafar Panahi, alongside the Screen Icon Award presented to Lee Kang-sheng. These accomplishments highlight SGIFF's ongoing commitment to showcasing diverse and compelling narratives from Asia and around the globe.


Decades of Dedication to Asian Cinema

Since its inception in 1987 by Geoffrey Malone and L. Leland Whitney, SGIFF has played a pivotal role in shaping the cinematic landscape of Southeast Asia. The festival's pioneering Silver Screen Awards, launched in 1991, were groundbreaking in establishing a competitive platform for Asian feature films and Singapore short films. Despite a brief hiatus in the early 2010s, SGIFF has consistently championed independent voices, fostered critical dialogue, and provided invaluable opportunities for emerging and established filmmakers.


The festival's storied past includes screening seminal works by cinematic giants such as Akira Kurosawa, Zhang Yimou, Edward Yang, Takeshi Kitano, Wong Kar-wai, and Tsai Ming-liang, as well as contemporary luminaries like Apichatpong Weerasethakul and Anthony Chen. SGIFF remains a vital nexus for film professionals and enthusiasts, connecting cultures through the universal language of cinema.

Guiding the Festival's Future


The 36th SGIFF will continue under the experienced leadership of Executive Director Emily J. Hoe and Programme Director Thong Kay Wee. Their shared vision emphasizes fostering international exchange, nurturing future talent, and presenting a curated selection of films that reflect the dynamism and creativity of the global film industry. "Each year, we strive to create an immersive and inspiring experience for our audiences and filmmakers," says Emily J. Hoe. "The 36th edition will be no exception, as we continue to champion powerful storytelling and celebrate the art form in all its diversity."


Submission Information for the 36th SGIFF

Filmmakers are invited to submit their works for consideration in the 36th 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): May 30 – June 30, 2025

  • Regular Submission (USD$ 35 non-refundable for features, USD$ 15 for shorts): July 1 – August 8, 2025

  • Final Submission Deadline (EXTENDED): August 8, 2025 (2359h GMT +8)

  • Notification Date: Mid-October 2025


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 36th Singapore International Film Festival, please visit:


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