Switzerland’s Locarno Film Festival has revealed the lineup for its 79th edition, running from August 5 to 15, 2026, with 103 world premieres, as reported by The Hollywood Reporter’s roundup. The selection features competition films by directors Hong Sang-soo, Basil Da Cunh, Gurvinder Singh, and Denis Côté. Locarno’s growing role as a key platform for new international cinema shines through this range, setting the stage for fresh cinematic voices
“Returning to Locarno with The House on the Moon feels like the stars have aligned,” said Yeo in a statement, reflecting the festival’s significance for both established auteurs and emerging talents, Deadline reports.
This increase shows a surge in fresh voices entering the cinematic conversation. The Concorso Cineasti del Presente competition alone presents 15 world premiere films, underscoring Locarno’s support for emerging auteurs who deliver audacious storytelling, Variety adds.
Canadian director Denis Côté will premiere his 17th feature, Nobody’s Violence. His work explores complex narratives beyond mainstream conventions. Hong Sang-soo returns with The House on the Moon, his 12th feature since 2020, and The Hollywood Reporter credits him with forging lasting influence in contemporary festivals.
Locarno’s international scope broadens with Gurvinder Singh’s participation, highlighting its rising focus on South Asian cinema. Adding diversity, Basil Da Cunh brings a fresh voice to the lineup. The festival saw a record 7,759 submissions, a nearly 22 percent rise from 2025, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
The festival plans to honor director Darren Aronofsky and actresses Virginie Efira and Asia Argento with honorary awards, recognizing their contributions to cinema’s evolving landscape, Variety notes.
Artistic significance and festival impact
Locarno’s 2026 selection confirms its place as a laboratory for art-house cinema and auteur-driven projects. Festival director Giona A. Nazzaro said their goal is to gather “perspectives and visions” that challenge audiences by mixing reflective narratives with daring cinematic adventure, according to Screendaily’s report.
Established names like Hong Sang-soo and Denis Côté demonstrate Locarno’s ongoing engagement with filmmakers who push cinematic boundaries, Variety reports.
What it means
Honoring Darren Aronofsky and actresses Virginie Efira and Asia Argento emphasizes Locarno’s blend of retrospectives and contemporary innovation.
Which Filmmakers Are Featured in Locarno’s 2026 Selection?
Directors include Hong Sang-soo, Basil Da Cunh, Gurvinder Singh, and Canadian Denis Côté. Their presence confirms the festival’s wide range of cinematic voices, Hollywood Reporter states.
