From April 7 to 15, 2026, Rome becomes the hub of contemporary Asian cinema with the return of the 23rd Asian Film Festival, hosted at the historic Cinema Farnese in the heart of Campo de’ Fiori.
The event is one of Italy’s most important showcases dedicated to Asian cinema, offering audiences a curated selection of films from countries such as South Korea, Japan, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Vietnam. It is a true cultural journey through powerful stories, auteur visions, and emerging talents.
The festival stands out for its rich and diverse program, ranging from intense dramas and coming-of-age stories to psychological thrillers and experimental works. All films are screened in their original language with Italian subtitles, allowing viewers to enjoy an authentic and immersive experience.
One of the most interesting aspects of the 2026 edition is the division of the program into themed days dedicated to specific national cinemas. April 8 is devoted to Indonesia, featuring visceral and contemporary stories; April 9 to Thailand, exploring introspection and social tensions; April 10 to South Korea, showcasing intense and refined works; April 11 to the Philippines, highlighting cinema deeply connected to political and social realities; April 12 to Japan, known for its aesthetic research and narrative depth; while April 14 focuses on Malaysia, presenting new perspectives and emerging cultural identities.
The festival will open on April 7 with the opening ceremony followed by the screening of “Girl” (Taiwan), already awarded at the Busan International Film Festival. The closing on April 15 will feature the awards ceremony celebrating the best films in competition.
The Asian Film Festival once again confirms itself as a must-attend event for cinephiles, lovers of Asian culture, and anyone curious to discover new stories and cinematic languages. A unique opportunity to experience the most authentic and contemporary face of Asian cinema, right in the heart of Rome.
