6th RETURN International Film & Art Festival 2026: “Identity – Who Do We Become?”

The RETURN International Film & Art Festival returns for its sixth edition in 2026, exploring the theme “Identity – Who Do We Become?” From 22 to 24 October 2026, international short films will be presented at various venues across Weimar.

This year’s open call received more than 600 submissions from over 80 countries. From these entries, 27 films were selected in the categories of Animation, Fiction, and Documentary. The films will be screened at Kino mon ami, CineStar, and Lichthaus Kino.

A Distinguished Jury

The festival is pleased to welcome several renowned figures from the film industry to this year’s jury: Jürgen Prochnow, internationally known for Das Boot and numerous international productions; Saralisa Volm, actress, writer, producer, and curator; and Sascha Vredenburg, director and screenwriter.

A Diverse Supporting Programme

Ahead of the festival, a wide range of events will take place from 4 to 21 October, including workshops, a media networking event, and a masterclass.

The first exhibition will open at Hofatelier Weimar on 3 October and remain on view until 31 October. A second exhibition will open during the festival’s opening ceremony on 22 October and remain accessible until 30 November.

A special highlight this year is the festival’s collaboration with Sendehalle. As part of the “Festival within a Festival” concept, selected films from the ACHAVA Film Festival and the Goldener Spatz Festival will also be presented at the RETURN Festival.

The awards ceremony will take place at Schießhaus Weimar on 24 October. Afterwards, the festival will conclude with a major concert and party.

By bringing together film, art, media, and social dialogue, the RETURN International Film & Art Festival invites audiences to engage with one central question: Who Do We Become?

RETURN International Film & Art Festival 2026

Festival: 22–24 October 2026 | WeimarSupporting programme: 4–21 October 2026Exhibition 1: 3–31 October 2026 | Hofatelier WeimarExhibition 2: 22 October–30 November 2026Screening venues: Kino mon ami, CineStar, and Lichthaus KinoAwards ceremony: 24 October 2026 | Schießhaus Weimar

Press contact:Contact person:Online tickets and further information: www.returniaf.com