8th Edition International Film Festival The Hague - IFFH 2026

From 13 to 15 November, Pathé Buitenhof in The Hague will be hosting the International Film Festival The Hague (IFFH). Enjoy exceptional international films, surprising stories, and new film talent from all over the world. An amazing journey through world cinema Since 2019, the International Film Festival The Hague has provided a platform for emerging filmmakers and stories that don't always get the attention they deserve. From impressive documentaries and gripping dramas to surprising short films, the festival showcases the international film world's versatility. Exceptional films and meetings with filmmakers The IFFH 2026 film program comprises a varied selection of international films. Visitors can enjoy exceptional world premieres, European premieres and Dutch premieres. The films cover a wide range of subjects, from personal stories and social issues to culture and human relationships. Workshops In addition to film screenings, the festival offers workshops/masterclasses on fascinating topics such as writing a successful script, acting, cinematography, and practical strategies for producers to obtain financial support. These sessions and networking opportunities have led to several successful film projects. These collaborations between individual filmmakers have contributed to the festival's glory and have proven to be a catalyst for creativity and success in the industry. • Masterclass: The Art of Making it Happen (Saturday 14 Nov, 10:00-11:00 Zaal 4) Led by Kelly Bergsma Drawing from the principles of improvisation ("Say Yes. Yes, And… What’s Next?"), filmmaker Kelly Bergsma shares practical insights on resilience, resourcefulness, and creative problem-solving when independent film productions encounter unexpected setbacks. • Masterclass: Cinematic Storytelling: From Sign to Symbol (Saturday 14 Nov, 10:00-11:00 Zaal 5) Led by Prof. Alex Mendez Giner Exploring how framing, lighting, sound, and editing function as signs that evolve into symbols in the viewer’s mind, demonstrating how symbolic thinking deepens audience connection. • Masterclass: From Page to Stage to Screen (Sunday 15 Nov, 10:00-11:00 Zaal 4) Led by Prof. Aimee Greenberg Documenting the journey of adapting a stage play to film, breaking down screenwriting adaptations, visual language, surrealism, sound design, and post-production. • Masterclass: Storytelling Principles & Structure: The Hero’s Journey and Beyond (Sunday 15 Nov, 10:00-11:00 Zaal 5) Led by Prof. Nikola Vukčević, PhD Tracing narrative frameworks from Aristotle’s Poetics and Freytag’s dramatic pyramid to Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey, examining how core structure forms compelling cinema, theatre, and literature.