The Illawarra Film Society (IFS) will launch its 2026 season on February 8, unveiling a diverse and ambitious program that spans 32 films from 19 countries.

The upcoming season features a mix of international award winners, rare screenings, documentaries and beloved classics, continuing the Society’s reputation for bringing unique cinema experiences to Illawarra audiences.

Among the highlights is The President’s Cake, the Iraqi Camera d’Or winner, alongside films that have not received a general Australian release, including U Are the Universe, a Ukrainian science-fiction film set in deep space. 

Classic titles are also set to shine on the big screen include Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, 90s cult favourite Run Lola Run, and Douglas Sirk’s lush 1950s melodrama All That Heaven Allows.

The program also includes Ice Maiden, a documentary following Australian adventurer and solo sailor Lisa Blair as she attempts to become the first woman to sail solo and non-stop around Antarctica.

Opening night on February 8 will feature the French coming-of-age film Holy Cow, chosen for its warmth, humour and celebratory tone.

“Opening night usually has a really festive atmosphere, so we look for a film that’s engaging and crowd-pleasing,” said IFS Chair and curator Jeannine Baker.

“Holy Cow just ticks all the boxes - it’s funny, warm-hearted and beautifully shot in the French Alps. We want people to leave the cinema feeling really good.”

Baker said that curating the season is a lengthy process, drawing on international film festivals, award circuits and personal recommendations. 

Some films are selected specifically to give local audiences access to titles they may have missed or never had the chance to see.

“One of the films in this year’s program, LOLLIPOP, I saw in London last year and loved,” she said.

“It’s only screened in Australia at festivals, so we wanted to give the local community the opportunity to see it.”

The Illawarra Film Society has grown steadily since its founding in 2012 and is now one of the largest film societies in Australia. 

Organisers attribute this success to a strong sense of community and a loyal membership base, with many attendees spanning multiple generations.

“We have many loyal members who’ve been with us since the IFS started in 2012, and then each year we get new members who spread the word to their family and friends,” said Baker.

Some of our younger members have joined because their parents are members, and it’s really lovely to see so many generations attending and enjoying films together. Watching films on the big screen and in the company of others is a big drawcard. 

Providing access to films that are rarely screened locally remains central to the Society’s mission, particularly films in languages other than English that explore contemporary issues and global perspectives.

“We know that our members are really keen to see films that aren’t screened locally, or that they missed because they showed only briefly. They also want to be exposed to other cultures and stories told in languages other than English. A lot of our films spark conversations about contemporary issues, and members love that too,” said Baker.

Audience tastes have also evolved over time, with a noticeable increase in younger members. In response, the program now places a greater emphasis on diversity - both in subject matter and in the voices behind the films - including works by and about LGBTQ+ communities. 

“I always aim to include at least one film made by or about the LGBTQ+ community, for example. It makes for a really vibrant, contemporary program and we truly believe that most people will find many stories that they connect with,” said Baker.

“About 3 years ago we started showing short films before some features about 3 years ago, and this gives us the opportunity to showcase some local and emerging talent, and we sometimes have filmmakers come along to present their film or answer questions from the audience”

Membership in the group is priced at $99 for all 32 films. Membership fees cover cinema hire, distributor costs and event expenses, while the Society is run entirely by volunteers. The Gala Cinema, owned by Ian Hyslop, continues to provide strong support for the initiative.

“With 32 films across the season, there’s something to surprise, delight and challenge everyone,” said Baker.

“You’ll be joining a community of film lovers, supporting a locally owned independent cinema, meeting filmmakers and making new friends.”

Membership includes two free guest passes and complimentary food and drinks at the opening and closing nights. You can find more information on their website: https://ifs.org.au/.