RUSSIAN FILM FESTIVAL SOUTH AFRICA INTERNATIONAL 2026
The Russian Film Festival South Africa International 2026 is returning. The excitement is building as a brand new season of stories, stars and unforgettable moments arrives. Come and see films from all over the world on 11 and 12 April 2026 at Ster-Kinekor, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town. This year’s festival will be bigger, bolder and more inspiring than ever. Audiences can enjoy powerful films and creative voices from around the world.
Season two is here…..
Step into the spotlight with the Russian Film Festival South Africa International, now in its second spectacular season. This year, we’re turning up the energy and expanding our vision, bringing bold, unforgettable stories from across the globe straight to the big screen. From powerful dramas to inspiring documentaries, this is where international cinema comes alive in Cape Town.
Film Screening – 11 April 2026
Place: Ster-Kinekor, V&A Waterfront
Date: Saturday 11 April 2026
Experience the magic of film at the iconic V&A Waterfront, hosted at Ster-Kinekor V&A Waterfront.
On this opening day, audiences will be immersed in a carefully curated selection of films that celebrate creativity, culture, and storytelling without borders. Expect powerful narratives, fresh voices, and cinematic moments that stay with you long after the credits roll.
Film Screening – 12 April 2026
Place: Ster-Kinekor, V&A Waterfront
Date: Saturday 12 April 2026
The journey continues at V&A Waterfront at Ster-Kinekor V&A Waterfront with another full day of exceptional cinema. Building on the excitement of the opening, this second day brings even more outstanding films from around the world, offering audiences a deeper dive into global storytelling and unforgettable screen experiences.
AWARDS CEREMONY
On Saturday, 18 April 2026, the festival reaches its peak at Hotel Sky, a day dedicated to storytelling, celebration, and recognition. The morning opens with a compelling documentary showcase from 09:00 to 14:30, diving deep into real stories that inform, challenge, and inspire.
Awards Ceremony Program
The festival concludes with our prestigious Awards Ceremony & Gala at Hotel Sky on Saturday, 18 April 2026. The day begins with a powerful journey through documentary storytelling before transitioning into an evening of cinematic celebration. As the sun sets, guests are welcomed into a night of elegance and anticipation where finalists are revealed and the best in film is honoured, ending with live entertainment, awards, and networking in a truly unforgettable finale.
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LOOKING BACK ON AN UNFORGETTABLE 2025
Our first season was a resounding success, from thought-provoking films to unforgettable screenings, the 2025 Russian Film Festival South Africa International laid the foundation for something truly special.
Opening Ceremony
On 7 March 2025, the festival launched with an elegant evening at the Radisson Collection Hotel. Guests filled the venue, drawn by the magic of cinema and powerful stories that inspired and connected everyone present.
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Awards Ceremony
On 15 March 2025, the awards ceremony and screenings also took place at the Radisson Collection, marking a triumphant close to a festival full of memorable moments and cinematic brilliance.
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With Special Thanks
We extend our deepest gratitude to the partners who helped bring this festival to life.
To INFESTPRO, for connecting us directly with filmmakers and delivering the films that form the foundation of this festival. To BEYOND SOUND, for their outstanding technical support and for helping bring these stories to the big screen. To STER-KINEKOR, as South Africa’s leading cinema exhibitor, for opening their theatres to the festival and supporting the arts by providing a platform for these films to be experienced on the big screen. And to BASA, the largest Russian-speaking community in South Africa, for their support in promoting and strengthening cultural exchange, and for helping give visibility to this community-driven celebration of film.
This festival is built on collaboration, trust, and a shared love for cinema — and we are truly grateful to walk this journey together.
