Woman, Life, Freedom International Film Festival 2026

Cinema, freedom and women’s voices across borders

16–21 September 2026 | Brisbane and international locations

Alliance Française de Brisbane is delighted to partner with the Woman, Life, Freedom International Film Festival (WLFFF) for the first time in 2026, joining an international programme that brings independent cinema and powerful stories of women, freedom and resistance to audiences across continents.

Founded in 2024 by the Association of Iranian Film and Theatre Artists Abroad (AIFTAA), the festival was inspired by the Woman, Life, Freedom movement and created as a space for filmmakers and artists to challenge censorship, promote freedom of expression and explore gender equality, human rights and social justice.

The third edition of WLFFF will take place from 16 to 21 September 2026, with screenings and events connecting audiences in Brisbane, Europe, North America and beyond.

The Alliance Française Award

As part of our new partnership, Alliance Française de Brisbane will present the Alliance Française Award, selecting one film from the festival's nominees.

The award reflects AFB's commitment to supporting independent cinema, artistic freedom and international cultural exchange, while creating a connection between the festival's global programme and Brisbane's French-speaking and Francophile community.

The winning film and presentation details will be announced as the festival programme is finalised.

A festival of cinema and remembrance

The 2026 edition also pays tribute to major figures of Iranian cinema, with dedicated memorial programmes honouring Bahram Beyzaie and Nasser Taghvai, two influential filmmakers whose careers were shaped by artistic independence and encounters with censorship.

The festival is also developing a memorial distinction in honour of Marjane Satrapi, the Iranian-French filmmaker and graphic novelist best known for Persepolis, who served as Jury President of the inaugural festival in 2024.

2026 International Jury

The international jury is chaired by Atiq Rahimi, Afghan-French novelist and filmmaker and winner of the Prix Goncourt. He is joined by filmmakers, actors and cultural practitioners including Niki Karimi, Vishka Asayesh, Mojgan Ilanlou, Stephen Lance, Richard Fung and Carolina Posse.

Join us in Brisbane

Whether you are passionate about Iranian cinema, international independent filmmaking or simply looking to discover bold and thought-provoking stories, WLFFF offers a unique opportunity to experience cinema as a space for dialogue, visibility and cultural connection.


Event details
Date:
Thursday 17 September
Time: 6 PM - 8:30 PM
Location:
SAE University College Jane Street
Jane Street
West End, QLD 4101



AFB members receive 50% off tickets (contact us to receive the discount code), making this an excellent opportunity to discover the festival and support independent cinema.

Book your ticket here Book your ticket here

Please note: the ticket link above should be replaced with the official WLFFF 2026 ticketing link once confirmed.

Proudly supported by

Alliance Française de Brisbane is proud to join WLFFF as a partner for the first time in 2026 and to present the Alliance Française Award as part of this year's festival.