iSAFF 2026 Unveils Official "Dreamscapes" Poster: An Invitation to Imagine Beyond Boundaries

The International South Asian Film Festival (iSAFF) has officially unveiled the highly anticipated poster for its 2026 edition, setting an inspiring and visionary tone for this year’s cinematic celebration. Anchored by the profound theme of "Dreamscapes", the festival is calling on audiences and filmmakers alike to explore the boundless possibilities of imagination, resilience, and hope.

Returning to Surrey, British Columbia, from September 23 to 27, 2026, iSAFF continues its legacy of championing bold, independent South Asian cinema that challenges stereotypes and pushes the boundaries of storytelling.

The Vision Behind "Dreamscapes"

The newly released poster perfectly encapsulates the ethos of this year's theme. According to the festival's official announcement, Dreamscapes is about recognizing the power within us to imagine a better future, reshape our own narratives, and inspire one another.

"When we break free from what holds us back, a whole world of possibilities opens up," the iSAFF team shared. "This year at iSAFF, let’s dream beyond boundaries, imagine what’s possible, and dream together." The theme is a deliberate celebration of South Asian filmmakers who are actively pushing form, perspective, and narrative forward on the global stage. It honors storytellers who dare to envision futures rooted in joy, justice, and care, using cinematic imagination as an act of resistance. Through Dreamscapes, the festival aims to reclaim authorship over the past while boldly scripting the future of South Asian representation.

What to Expect at iSAFF 2026

Now in its 19th year, iSAFF has firmly established itself as a premier destination for discovering new voices and experiencing thought-provoking cinema. The 2026 festival promises an incredible five-day lineup, including:

• World Premieres and Screenings: A carefully curated selection of narrative features, compelling documentaries, episodic series, and short films.

• The Purple Carpet Gala: The festival will kick off on September 23 with a glamorous opening night gala featuring special performances and sneak peeks at the upcoming films.

• Industry Panels and Workshops: Attendees can expect engaging conversations, filmmaker Q&As, and deep dives into the creative processes driving modern South Asian cinema.

As always, iSAFF serves as a vital bridge connecting visionary directors, actors, and producers with a passionate community of cinephiles who crave stories that look beyond contemporary Bollywood formulas.

Join the Journey

The invitation is open for everyone to come together, reflect on diverse cultures, and celebrate the artists scripting our next chapters.

Passes and tickets for the festival, including Early Bird access, are available now. To secure your spot and view the full festival schedule, visit the official website at www.isaff.ca.

Quick Facts (FAQs)

When is the International South Asian Film Festival (iSAFF) 2026? The festival will take place over five days, running from September 23 to September 27, 2026.

Where is iSAFF 2026 being held? The festival is hosted in Surrey, British Columbia, Canada, with screenings and events taking place at venues like Surrey City Hall and Landmark Cinemas in Guildford.

What is the theme for iSAFF 2026? The theme for this year is "Dreamscapes". It celebrates cinematic imagination, encouraging filmmakers and audiences to break free from limitations, reshape their stories, and envision a future rooted in possibility and hope.

Where can I buy tickets for iSAFF 2026? Festival passes, including the all-inclusive Fraser Pass and individual screening tickets, can be purchased directly on the festival's official website at www.isaff.ca.