Singapore’s biggest celebration of cinema is back. The Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF) will return for its 36th edition from November 26 to December 7, 2025, bringing together film lovers, industry professionals, and creators from across the globe.
This year’s festival promises to be one of the most exciting yet, featuring more than 110 films from over 45 countries, including over 30 Singaporean features, shorts, and co-productions that spotlight the nation’s growing creative strength.
A Grand Showcase of Global and Local Storytelling
The Singapore International Film Festival 2025 will once again serve as a vital platform for both international and local filmmakers to showcase their stories. The event is known not only for its world-class film selections but also for its commitment to nurturing homegrown talent.
Although the full line-up and ticketing information will be announced on October 24, SGIFF organizers have already revealed several titles that will headline this year’s festival.
One of the most anticipated films is “The Old Man And His Car,” an independent production starring veteran Singaporean actor Lim Kay Tong. The film will open the festival’s Panorama section—a special showcase dedicated to new Singapore productions that explore social and cultural issues through the lens of cinema.
Highlights from SGIFF 2025: Homegrown Stories Take the Spotlight
“The Old Man And His Car” follows the story of Hock, a widower who must part ways with his beloved car before moving to Canada to begin a new chapter with his son. This heartfelt drama marks the feature film debut of director Michael Kam and is set to make its world premiere at the Tokyo International Film Festival before screening at SGIFF.
SGIFF 2025 will also feature several world premieres from Singaporean filmmakers, showcasing the country’s creativity across genres and formats.
Among them is “Sandbox,” a comedy about a struggling stunt training school trying to survive in a fast-changing industry. The film stars well-known local talents Benjamin Kheng and Nathan Hartono.
Another notable entry is the documentary “At Home with Work,” which takes a close look at the lives of Singaporeans running home-based businesses, offering a timely reflection on entrepreneurship and community resilience.
Completing the list of notable debuts is the short film “Cendol,” starring Sharon Au as a renowned designer who returns home to reconnect with her mother. “Cendol” marks the directorial debut of actor Qi Yuwu, further emphasizing SGIFF’s commitment to providing opportunities for artists exploring new creative directions.
SGIFF’s Mission: Nurturing Singapore’s Film Culture
Beyond showcasing films, the Singapore International Film Festival continues to play a key role in supporting and developing the region’s cinematic landscape.
In a statement, Jeremy Chua, General Manager of SGIFF, emphasized that the festival is more than just an annual event—it’s a movement that aims to empower storytellers and preserve Singapore’s film culture.
“As much as SGIFF is about celebrating cinema, it is also about ensuring that Singaporean stories continue to be made and seen,” said Chua. “This year’s world premieres, alongside the doubling of our local short film selection, reflect how deeply we believe in investing in homegrown talent.”
He also highlighted initiatives such as the SGIFF Film Fund, which provides financial and developmental support to filmmakers, and public discussion forums that encourage open conversations about art, identity, and creativity.
“In recent years, where exhibition spaces are contracting, it is all the more important that we protect and grow the platforms that sustain our film culture,” Chua added.
A Celebration of Creativity and Community
As SGIFF enters its 36th year, its mission remains clear: to celebrate cinematic excellence while ensuring that Singaporean voices continue to be heard on the global stage.
By offering a space for storytelling that reflects the nation’s diversity, SGIFF fosters dialogue between cultures, encourages creative experimentation, and strengthens the region’s artistic ecosystem.
The festival not only showcases films but also serves as a bridge connecting audiences, creators, and industry professionals—making it one of Southeast Asia’s most respected cultural events.
Save the Dates and Join the Celebration
The Singapore International Film Festival 2025 will take place from November 26 to December 7 across multiple venues in Singapore. Movie enthusiasts, filmmakers, and students of cinema are encouraged to mark their calendars and stay tuned for the full programme announcement on October 24.
For more details, film lovers can visit the official SGIFF website for updates on screenings, ticketing, and events.
This year’s edition reaffirms SGIFF’s role as a beacon of creativity—championing local talent, promoting meaningful storytelling, and celebrating the universal power of film.
Conclusion: A Must-Attend Event for Film Lovers
From heartfelt dramas to daring documentaries and imaginative shorts, SGIFF 2025 promises to be a cinematic journey filled with emotion, insight, and inspiration. With over 30 local productions making their debut, this year’s festival is a testament to the strength, creativity, and resilience of Singapore’s film community.
For anyone passionate about storytelling, culture, or film as an art form, the Singapore International Film Festival remains a must-attend event—an annual celebration of stories that move, challenge, and connect us all.
