43rd International Women’s Film Festival Dortmund+Cologne

The International Women’s Film Festival Dortmund Cologne (IFFF) is one of the most important film festivals of its kind in Europe. For over four decades, it has championed the visibility of women* in film – as directors, producers, cinematographers and writers. The 43rd edition will take place in Cologne from April 22 to 26, 2026 and will present over 80 films from all over the world over five festival days.

The program

The festival program includes feature and documentary films, short films, experimental films and animation. The sections range from the international feature film competition to the panorama for documentary and experimental films and the queer film series “begehrt! – filmlust queer”. This year’s thematic focus is entitled “Common Land” and brings together films that pose questions about communal space, collective action and shared resources.

With “Spot on, NRW!”, the festival dedicates a separate section to regional filmmaking and focuses on current productions from North Rhine-Westphalia. In addition to national contributions, numerous international productions can be seen, including several world premieres and German premieres.

Supporting program: talks, workshops and industry meetings

In addition to the film screenings, the IFFF offers a varied accompanying program. Panel discussions and talks will address current topics relating to gender equality, production and the film industry. One highlight is the camera workshop for FLINTA*-DoPs, which takes place in cooperation with Cinematographinnen and other partners. In addition, an industry talk on the topic of women-led production companies invites discussion – with renowned guests from the German film landscape.

Program for children and young people

The IFFF is not only aimed at an adult audience. A special children’s and youth program makes the festival accessible to all age groups. Short film programs for children from the age of 4 and separate screenings for young people aged 12 and 16 offer age-appropriate insights into international film productions – from animation and documentaries to feature films.

Venues in Cologne

The festival screenings take place at several venues in Cologne’s city center: at Filmforum NRW, Filmhaus Köln, Odeon Kino and the auditorium of the Academy of Media Arts (KHM). The distribution across different venues makes the festival a city-wide cinema event.

Tickets and information

Tickets, the full schedule and accreditation information are available on the festival’s official website. The IFFF also offers childcare during selected events as well as barrier-free access to the venues.

All information at: frauenfilmfest.com