Funding and sponsorship permitting, the REEL Film Festival will be back in 2027 ! 

The REEL Film Festival is a vibrant celebration of film, creativity, and community in the beautiful Geelong and Surf Coast region. It’s jam packed with events to celebrate our region’s creative talent and foster a thriving film culture. 

The inaugural REEL Film Festival took place during March – April 2026.

What is the REEL Film Festival? 

The REEL Film Festival brings together filmmakers, screen creatives, and film lovers for an exciting mix of panel discussions with industry experts, Red Carpet networking events, a lively Movie Trivia Night, and screenings of locally made films at The Pivotonian. 

A major highlight is the fast-paced 48: Hour Film Frenzy Shoot Out, where crews are challenged to write, shoot, and edit a 4–7 minute short film in just one weekend. Open to all ages and abilities, participants can film on smartphones or professional cameras, with all eligible films shown on the big screen.

Bollywood comes to Geelong!

The 2026 Festival also welcomed the National Indian Film Festival Australia (NIFFA) to Geelong, featuring acclaimed Indian cinema. 

NIFFA was proudly supported by a City of Greater Geelong Community Grant. 

Fingers crossed, NIFFA will be back in 2027 either as part of the REEL Festival or a separate event.  

FIND OUT MORE, VIEW SOME HAPPY SNAPS FROM THE 2026 GEELONG REEL FILM FESTIVAL EVENTS BY CLICKING ON THE TABS below: