Must-see movies for Calgary film lovers at CIFF this week
The 2026 Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF), presented by Servus Credit Union, is underway, and there’s plenty for film lovers to enjoy around the city.
Alberta’s largest film festival takes place from Thursday, Sept. 18, to Sunday, Sept. 28, with over 200 films from around the world to discover.
The 27th edition of CIFF is also packed with gala screenings, parties, and panels that film buffs won’t want to miss.
CIFF
“We are thrilled to bring world-class cinema, inspiring independent voices, and vibrant red-carpet energy to Calgary again this fall,” said Clinton Hallahan, marketing manager for the festival.
“CIFF is a true celebration of storytelling, and we can’t wait for local audiences and visitors to experience the incredible lineup we’ve assembled.”
A highlight of CIFF’s second week is the pay-what-you-can screenings of Ceremony on Tuesday, Sept. 29 and Wednesday, Sept. 30. The story of survival, return, and family by Banchi Hanuse features testimony, watercolour animation, and rare archival footage. Donations (minus credit card fees) will go to support USAY (Urban Society for Aboriginal Youth).
Ceremony (CIFF)
Another highly anticipated event is the screening of The Debut, starring Oscar-winner Julianne Moore as a shy, unassuming housewife who soon becomes an intense method actor when she lands a part in a small community theatre production.
The hilarious film by writer-director Jesse Eisenberg also stars Paul Giamatti as the domineering theatre director.
Other films that Calgary fans will want to add to their list include the Canadian premiere of The Incomer, directed by Louis Paxton and the Canadian premiere of Fatherland by Academy Award-winning director Paweł Pawlikowski.
The Incomer (CIFF)
Make sure to submit your audience ballot to help crown the winners of the 2026 CIFF Audience Choice Awards.
Most films screening at this year’s festival are eligible to be voted for, with winners being selected via collective scores garnered from audience ballots submitted online and in cinemas.
Check out the full CIFF 2026 schedule online.
Calgary International Film Festival 2026
When: Now until Oct. 4, 2026
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations
Tickets: Various prices, including ticket bundles available. Purchase online
Community Partnership Content