Melbourne International Film Festival offers early look at 2025 program
The Melbourne International Film Festival (MIFF) has offered a sneak peek into its 2025 program with a selection of 26 films and events that will captivate audiences from 7–24 August. The festival promises an array of original storytelling sourced from prestigious film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, Sundance, and beyond. With 18 days of diverse programming, MIFF’s 73rd edition is set to illuminate Melbourne during the winter season.
Among the highlights of the program are seven MIFF Premiere Fund projects, showcasing a blend of 17 international and local films alongside two special events. Notable inclusions are the Australian Premiere of Julia Holter: The Passion of Joan of Arc, featuring an exclusive live-score cinematic event at the Melbourne Recital Centre. Additionally, the World Premiere of When the World Came Flooding In, an immersive installation and VR documentary capturing intimate stories of life during a natural disaster, promises a unique experience for attendees.
One of the most anticipated films of the festival is the Palme d’Or winner, It Was Just An Accident, directed by Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi. This revenge thriller is hailed as a powerful statement against authoritarian oppression, providing MIFF audiences with an early glimpse at this acclaimed work on the big screen.
MIFF’s Artistic Director, Al Cossar, expressed his excitement for the upcoming program, teasing audiences with a taste of what’s to come. The festival aims to showcase a diverse range of films, from established auteurs to emerging talents, promising a collection of extraordinary cinematic works. With the announcement of the first titles and events, MIFF is gearing up for a celebration of film that will leave attendees enthralled.
Beyond the metropolitan area, MIFF’s Regional showcase will extend its reach to various venues across Victoria, ensuring that audiences in regional areas can partake in the festival experience. Additionally, MIFF Online will provide a digital platform for cinema lovers across Australia to access a selection of films beyond the in-cinema season, enhancing the festival’s accessibility and reach.
As part of the festival, the annual MIFF Awards will recognize cinematic excellence and talent, with a significant prize pool up for grabs. Among the anticipated films this year is One More Shot, a debut feature by Melbourne director Nicholas Clifford, which promises a nostalgic journey back to the Y2K era. Another highlight is First Light, a visually stunning crime drama that delves into themes of faith, power, and corruption, set against a picturesque mountainous backdrop in the Philippines.
With a diverse lineup of films that explore various themes and genres, the Melbourne International Film Festival’s 2025 program is set to provide audiences with a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences, promising something for every film enthusiast to enjoy.