- Starting
- 09/23/2026 12:00 am PDT
- Until
- 09/27/2026 12:00 am PDT
- Location
- 13450 104 Ave, Surrey, BC V3T 1V8, City Hall
Experience the International South Asian Film Festival (iSAFF) 2026 in Surrey, BC!
Catch 77 films from 15 countries at this celebration of South Asian cinema, running September 23–27 at Landmark Cinemas Guildford. Don't miss the region's biggest showcase of South Asian storytelling.
The International South Asian Film Festival (iSAFF) returns to Surrey for its 2026 edition, themed "Dreamscapes." Now bringing together 77 films — features, documentaries, and shorts — spoken in 19 languages from 15 countries, iSAFF connects directors, actors, producers, and audiences in a shared love of stories that go beyond mainstream cinema. Founded to bridge the gap between South Asian talent and mainstream audiences, the festival continues to spotlight new and emerging voices alongside established filmmakers.
The film showtimes opens Thursday, September 24 with the BC Premiere of Lali, a dark comedy that had its World Premiere at Berlinale. Highlights across the week include a Gala Presentation of The Gymnasts of Fisherman Colony (executive produced by Malala Yousafzai and Mariska Hargitay), the Centrepiece feature Jersey Boy, and the Marquee Presentation of Namaslay. The festival closes Sunday, September 27 with Hoop Like This, an audience award-winning basketball documentary. More than half of this year's official selections are receiving their first-ever screening in Canada or the world.
All screenings take place at Landmark Cinemas Guildford (15051 101 Ave), located inside Guildford Town Centre — easily reached by bus from Surrey Central or Gateway SkyTrain Station, with on-site parking also available. Festival organizers have also partnered with several Surrey hotels, including Sandman Suites Surrey-Guildford, Civic Hotel Autograph Collection, and Sheraton Vancouver Guildford, offering special guest rates for visitors staying over for the festival.
For tickets, the full schedule, and festival passes, visit the iSAFF website. You can also follow the festival on Facebook and Instagram.