The Tallinn Black Nights Film Festival (PÖFF) has unveiled the full competition lineup for its 30th anniversary, featuring a heavy concentration of world premieres and high-profile directorial debuts. The festival is scheduled to take place from November 6 to 22, 2026.
This year’s programming includes 21 world premieres and three international premieres split across the Official Competition and First Feature Competition. The Official Competition jury will be presided over by British screenwriter and director Sir Christopher Hampton.
Official Competition Highlights
The Official Competition features 12 world premieres, including new works from established international directors. Among the most anticipated entries is “Sht Happens” (also known as “Gut Feelings”) from Dominican filmmaker José María Cabral. The film is a dark comedy that follows Cabral’s previous success on the festival circuit.
Joining the competition is Frédéric Baillif’s “A Job Well Done.” The social drama focuses on the complexities of the Geneva asylum system, specifically following social workers who operate out of a double-decker bus. The film explores the personal and professional tensions inherent in navigating institutional bureaucracy while attempting to provide humanitarian aid.
Films in the Official Competition are vying for the festival’s Grand Prix, which includes a grant of €20,000 to be shared by the director and producer.
First Feature Competition and Directorial Debuts
The First Feature Competition highlights emerging voices, with nine of the 12 selected films making their world premieres in Tallinn. Actor Ray Panthaki, known for his roles in “Boiling Point” and “Marcella,” makes his directorial debut with “In Starland.”
The film stars Clarence Maclin, who recently gained acclaim for his breakout role in “Sing Sing,” alongside Marcus Scribner.
The First Feature selection serves as a launchpad for new talent, maintaining PÖFF’s reputation for identifying significant new directors before they transition to larger global platforms. The 2026 edition marks three decades of the festival, which has grown from a regional showcase into a critical fixture of the international film calendar.
