Austin Film Festival Will Showcase 97 Films in October
The 33rd annual event runs from October 29 through November 5, 2026, across the city.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Film — General
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The Austin Film Festival will bring filmmakers and cinephiles together starting October 29, 2026, for its 33rd annual event. The festival features 97 films from 24 countries, including high-profile selections that will screen over the course of the week.
Why it matters
The festival is a cornerstone of the local cultural calendar, offering residents a chance to see diverse international cinema and engage with industry professionals. It brings a unique mix of public screenings and focused educational events to the city.
This 33rd annual edition showcases 97 films representing 24 countries. The schedule includes four days of dedicated Writers Conference programming, though the exact roster of guest speakers remains pending.
The players
Austin Film Festival
An annual event in the city that focuses on the work of writers and filmmakers.
Jesse Eisenberg
An actor and filmmaker whose film The Debut will open the festival.
Tony Gilroy
A filmmaker whose film Behemoth! will serve as the centerpiece for the event.
The details
The festival features a slate of screenings, panel discussions, and a live screenplay reading to complement the main film programming. Jesse Eisenberg's film The Debut is set as the opening feature, while Tony Gilroy's film Behemoth! will serve as the centerpiece selection. The event wraps up on November 5, providing a platform for filmmakers to engage with local audiences.
Timeline
The 33rd annual Austin Film Festival begins on October 29, 2026.
The festival concludes on November 5, 2026.
The Texas Context
This 33rd installment of the festival follows in the footsteps of its 32nd annual event as a premier destination for cinematic talent. The gathering continues the city's long-standing role as a hub for both independent film and creative writing industries.
Residents can prepare for a week of increased downtown activity and foot traffic beginning October 29. Audiences should keep an eye on the official schedule to plan for specific screening times and conference panel attendance.
The takeaway
The 33rd annual festival offers a significant opportunity to engage with international cinema and writing workshops before the event concludes on November 5. Keep a close watch on the festival's official site for updates on guest appearances and specific daily screening times.
Further reading
Find more details on local screenings and events at the Austin Film — General section.
Live Poll
Do you plan to attend film festival screenings or events in your local area this year?
