The Sydney Film Festival is back for 2026, running from June 3 to 14, with a staggering lineup of 248 films from 81 countries. Among the stars gracing the event are Peter Weir, Hugh Jackman, Hannah Einbinder, and Olivia Wilde. Here are nine films and one free event you won't want to miss.
The Death of Robin Hood
Directed by Michael Sarnoski (US), this A24 dark take on the Robin Hood legend stars Hugh Jackman as the titular outlaw. With provocative taglines like "The legend was a lie" and "He was no hero," the film promises a revisionist spin on the classic tale.
The Arab
Malek Bensmaïl (Algeria/France) adapts Kamel Daoud's novel The Meursault Investigation, reclaiming Albert Camus' The Stranger by giving a voice and identity to the unnamed Arab victim. A powerful reworking of a timeless story.
Teenage Sex and Death at Camp Miasma
Jane Schoenbrun (US) delivers a "camp, bloody psychosexual horror" following a filmmaker hired to revive an '80s slasher franchise. Starring Hannah Einbinder and Gillian Anderson, this film explores desire, fear, and delirium.
Leviticus
Adrian Chiarella's (Australia) debut feature follows two teenage boys in a conservative Christian community forced into gay conversion practices, unleashing a sinister force. A socially conscious horror that premiered at Sundance to critical acclaim.
Saccharine
Natalie Erika James (Australia) presents a body horror about toxic beauty standards. A medical student becomes addicted to a weight loss drug while being haunted by a ghost that grows as she shrinks.
In Conversation with Peter Weir
Legendary Australian director Peter Weir makes a rare public appearance for a free fireside chat with Rob Carlton. Don't miss this opportunity to hear from the mind behind Picnic at Hanging Rock and Dead Poets Society.
The Kidnapping of Arabella
Carolina Cavalli (Italy) directs this Italian road movie where a 28-year-old woman becomes convinced a seven-year-old girl is her younger self. Starring Chris Pine speaking Italian, the duo embarks on a cross-country adventure.
The Invite
Olivia Wilde (US) remakes the Spanish comedy The People Upstairs in this single-setting dinner party gone wrong. Starring Wilde, Seth Rogen, Penélope Cruz, and Edward Norton, it's described as original and brimming with surprise.
Ripples in the Mist
Clara Law (Australia) weaves the stories of two exiled Hong Kong women whose paths intertwine across Taiwan and Australia, tracing grief, friendship, and creative renewal.
Árru
Elle Sofe Sara (Norway/Sweden/Finland) tells the story of a reindeer herder in Sápmi fighting to protect her ancestral lands from a mining project. A fierce and cathartic tale about breaking silence to do the right thing.
The Sydney Film Festival runs from June 3 to 14. For the full program, visit the official website.
