Film And TV
27 Jan 26

Paul Rudd, Colin Farrell, Bill Nighy, and more set to attend Dublin International Film Festival

"There are lots of firsts this year, with new venues, new partnerships, and a new way of presenting world-class cinema." says Festival Director Gráinne Humphreys

Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) unveils its 2026 programme, running from 19 February to 1 March.

A star-studded line-up featuring Paul Rudd, Colin Farrell, Bill Nighy, Maisie Williams, and Alice Krige has been announced as the Dublin International Film Festival unveils its 2026 programme. The festival will screen a total of 83 feature films, which includes 17 world premieres, alongside 53 short films.

Other celebrities in attendance include Chris Colfer, Nick Jonas, Ciarán Hinds, Colin Morgan, Dominic Cooper, Sarah Bolger, Katie McGrath, Clare Dunne, Calam Lynch, Aidan Gillen, and Éanna Hardwicke.

The DIFF 2026 festival is set to begin with the world premier of David Gleeson's Once Upon A Time In A Cinema. An ode to the nostalgia of movie-going, the film draws on Gleeson's memories of his late father's cinema. Humphreys has called the work "an Irish counterpart to Cinema Paradiso."

John Carney's new musical-comedy Power Ballad, starring Nick Jonas and Paul Rudd, will receive its world premiere as the closing film of the festival.

“Ireland is often referred to as a nation of cinema-goers, but we do not always see as much world cinema as we could or should. DIFF exists to support cultural cinema and to create opportunities to experience international art and artists" said Festival Director Gráinne Humphreys. "We are proud of the range and diversity of this year’s programme and look forward to welcoming new audiences while reconnecting with our loyal attendees."

DIFF 2026 has announced a record 26 Irish features and documentaries, with 17 world premieres. The showcase of contemporary Irish filmmaking spans across various genres and themes, shot nationwide. DIFF's expanding short film programme features nine curated strands, supported by Screen Ireland, highlighting emerging Irish and international talent.

The festival will also be holding a number of awards such as The Discovery Award and the Human Rights Film Award.