Filmekimi 2026: Discover the World Through Cinema in Istanbul

Looking for something different to do in Istanbul this October?

Whether you’re an expat, Erasmus student, digital nomad, or simply someone who enjoys discovering new cultures, Filmekimi offers a chance to travel around the world without leaving the city.

Organized by the Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV), the 25th edition of Filmekimi brings 43 films to Istanbul, including acclaimed productions from Cannes, Venice, Toronto, and other major international film festivals.

And you don’t need to be a film expert to enjoy it.

What Makes Filmekimi Special?

Unlike a typical night at the movies, Filmekimi focuses on international cinema, independent productions, and stories that might not otherwise reach Istanbul’s mainstream theaters.

This year’s selection includes new works from celebrated directors such as Pedro Almodóvar, Cristian Mungiu, Lee Chang-dong, Paweł Pawlikowski, and Hirokazu Kore-eda.

From European dramas to Asian cinema, historical stories, and contemporary social issues, the festival offers something for a wide range of tastes.

Three Films Worth Discovering

With 43 films in the program, choosing what to watch can be challenging. Here are three interesting options for international audiences.

1. Possible Loves (Olası Aşklar)

Director: Lee Chang-dong | South Korea

The acclaimed Korean filmmaker returns with a drama exploring the intertwined lives of two couples, relationships, and social tensions.

The film received the Grand Jury Prize at the 2026 Venice Film Festival.

Language: Korean, with Turkish and English subtitles.

2. Resistance (Direniş)

Director: László Nemes | France, Belgium, Hungary

Set in Nazi-occupied France in 1943, the film follows resistance leader Jean Moulin as he faces interrogation by the Gestapo.

A powerful historical drama about courage, resistance, and human dignity.

Languages: French and German, with Turkish and English subtitles.

3. Nobody’s Watching (Kimse Görmeden)

Director: Marc Fitoussi | France

Starring Isabelle Huppert, Sandrine Kiberlain, and Diane Kruger, this comedy takes a humorous look at ambition, friendship, and the competitive world of French cinema.

An appealing option for anyone who enjoys character-driven stories with humor.

Language: French, with Turkish and English subtitles.

Check the official festival schedule for screening dates and remaining tickets.

Where Can You Watch Filmekimi?

Screenings take place at four Istanbul venues:

• Atlas 1948 Cinema, Beyoğlu: A historic cinema on İstiklal Street, ideal for combining a film with dinner or drinks nearby.

• Kadıköy Cinema, Kadıköy: A convenient choice for Asian-side residents, surrounded by cafés and restaurants.

• City’s CineWAM, Nişantaşı: A central option for those living or working on the European side.

• Paribu Art: A contemporary cultural venue hosting festival screenings.

Each venue offers a different atmosphere, making Filmekimi a good excuse to explore another neighborhood.

Can You Enjoy Filmekimi Without Speaking Turkish?

Yes, but check the language details before booking.

Many international films are shown in their original languages, and several offer both Turkish and English subtitles.

However, English subtitles are not guaranteed for every film.

For example, the three films highlighted above have English subtitles listed in the official program.

If you don’t speak Turkish, always check the language and subtitle information on the individual film page before purchasing tickets.

Turn a Movie Night Into a Social Experience

One of the best things about cinema is the conversation afterward.

A film about another country can lead to discussions about culture, identity, relationships, history, and the different ways people experience life.

For international residents, attending a film festival can also be a refreshing alternative to traditional networking events.

Invite a few friends, choose a film, and meet afterward for coffee or dinner.

You might discover a new favorite director, hear a completely different interpretation of the story, or make a new friend who shares your interest in cinema.

Sometimes, all it takes to start a conversation is:

“What did you think of the film?”

Tickets and Practical Information

Dates: October 9–18, 2026

Organizer: Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (İKSV)

Venues: Atlas 1948, Kadıköy Cinema, City’s CineWAM Nişantaşı, and Paribu Art.

Tickets: Available through Passo and authorized festival ticket outlets, subject to availability.

Student tickets: Eligible students may benefit from the Eczacıbaşı Genç Bilet program, with 50 TL tickets subject to availability and program conditions.

A few important things to know before attending:

• Most screenings are restricted to audiences aged 18 and over unless otherwise indicated.

• Arrive at least 20 minutes before the screening.

• Late arrivals are not admitted.

• Tickets generally cannot be exchanged or refunded unless a screening is canceled or rescheduled.

• Large backpacks and suitcases are not permitted inside screening halls.

• Films are screened without intermissions.

Official festival website: https://filmekimi.iksv.org

Cinema Is Better When Shared

Istanbul has no shortage of nightlife, restaurants, and social events. But some of the most memorable experiences happen when we step outside our usual routines.

Filmekimi is an opportunity to discover different cultures, hear new perspectives, and experience the city’s international arts scene.

At Smileys Community, we bring together expats, Erasmus students, digital nomads, and internationally minded locals through shared experiences.

Whether it’s a film screening, language exchange, cultural walk, or international gathering, our goal is simple: help people connect in real life.

So if you’re looking for something different this October, pick a film, invite someone along, and let the conversation begin.

Discover more events and meet Istanbul’s international community at Smileys Community⁠.