Tirana kicks off another major cultural event this weekend: the 23rd Tirana International Film Festival (TIFF). The festival has brought hundreds of new films to the capital for over two decades, many of them internationally acclaimed.

This year, the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATSH) is an official partner of TIFF.

A total of 3,245 films and 59 scripts from 115 countries applied for this edition. Agron Domi, TIFF’s director and co-founder, said a months-long selection process narrowed the entries to 192 competing films and 10 scripts for ContesTIFF. Additionally, 53 non-competitive films bring the total program to 245 films from 70 countries.

Two films will qualify for major awards: one for the Oscars and one for the European Film Awards. However, the highlight will be the European premiere of Jim Jarmusch’s “Father Mother Sister Brother.” The film, which won the Golden Lion in Venice, will screen in Tirana after TIFF’s opening ceremony.

This edition’s “Focus” program honors Icelandic director Runar Runarsson. Domi explained the choice highlights how a filmmaker from a small country can achieve international success while exploring unique human and geographic narratives.

TIFF also introduces a children’s program at the Pyramid. Films will be divided into two groups: under-10 and teen audiences.

For the first time, TIFF’s RetrospekTIFF section includes Video Art. It will feature “Obsession,” a selection of works by artist Fani Zguro from 2006–2025.

Domi emphasized TIFF’s independent spirit. The festival includes films from Israel and two from Palestine, tackling current topics, including “Gaza Bride.” He said, “We promote films and artists. Art and culture should have no barriers. They bring people together and foster peace.”

Regarding Albanian cinema, Domi noted the selection is limited. Production and quality remain low. Five Albanian short films will compete in the “In Albanian” program.

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