cyprus film — The Cyprus film industry is set for a robust year in 2026, with local creators and producers gaining recognition alongside global productions. The deputy ministry of culture has expressed optimism about the upcoming year, highlighting the achievements of Cypriot filmmakers who have recently won awards and garnered international attention.
Photo: cyprus-mail.com
Cyprus film: Exciting Premieres on the Horizon
One of the pivotal reasons for the anticipated growth is the scheduled premieres of two significant films. The first, Hold Onto Me by Myrsini Aristidou, will debut at the renowned 2026 Sundance Film Festival. The second, Motherwitch by Minos Papas, is set to screen at the prestigious 2026 International Film Festival Rotterdam. Both films showcase the talent and creativity emerging from Cyprus, positioning the island as a notable player in the global film landscape.
International Collaboration and Recognition
Additionally, Cyprus is represented in the Oscar-nominated film All That’s Left of You, directed by Cherien Dabis. This film serves as Jordan’s official submission for the Best International Feature Film category. It is a Cyprus-Germany co-production, supported by the deputy culture ministry through its Minority Co-Production Programme, with AMP Filmworks involved in its production.
All That’s Left of You explores the narrative of a Palestinian family over several decades amid the Israel-Palestine conflict, delving into themes of uprooting, collective trauma, and survival. The film has already made waves at various international film festivals, having premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and secured both audience and jury awards. Notable names such as Mark Ruffalo and Javier Bardem serve as executive producers, adding to the film’s credibility and allure.
Award-Winning Short Films
The success of Cypriot filmmakers extends beyond feature films. The short film The Weaver, directed by Giorgos Tsangaris, was recently awarded Best Animation Film at the 16th Karama Human Rights Film Festival in Amman, Jordan. The jury praised the film for illuminating crucial societal truths and inspiring reflection on the struggles faced by communities advocating for justice and dignity.
The Weaver has also been selected for the official competition at the 45th Festival Anima in Brussels, showcasing its appeal across multiple platforms. Earlier, it captivated audiences at the historic Festival de Cine y Derechos Humanos de Barcelona and the 22nd Animateka Festival in Ljubljana, Slovenia, further establishing its impact in the film circuit.
Continuing Festival Journey
Another short film, Sirens by Argyro Nicolaou, premiered at the 29th Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival in November 2025. It was featured in the Shorts Live-Action Competition section of PÖFF Shorts 2025. The film’s selection at such a prominent festival highlights the growing visibility of Cypriot cinema on international stages.
Marinos Kartikkis’ film Deviation, which premiered at the Alexandria Mediterranean Countries Film Festival, continues to gain traction with screenings at various international festivals, including the Thessaloniki Film Festival. Recently, it was selected for the Dhaka International Film Festival 2026 in Bangladesh. Deviation has also been shortlisted among 20 European films for the Arab Critics’ Awards, further underscoring the film’s artistic merits and the international interest in Cypriot productions.
A Bright Future Ahead
The deputy ministry of culture’s optimism for 2026 reflects a broader trend of growth within the Cypriot film industry. As local filmmakers continue to produce compelling narratives and participate in international collaborations, Cyprus is carving out a significant niche in the global film scene. With the upcoming premieres and the ongoing success of existing projects, the industry is poised for a year of remarkable achievements and recognition.
