by FilmInk Staff
Darwin International Film Festival presents its biggest-ever line up of special guests, with more than 40 confirmed guests, across the 11 days, five venues and 35 sessions at DIFF2025 – September 11-21.
DIFF Manager Erin Lucas said “DIFF 2025 is a celebration of filmmakers at every stage of their career. We’ll be showcasing short films, delivering retrospective screenings, highlighting debut feature films, and premiering thought-provoking and entertaining award winners. We are proud to share the amazing line up of content we have put together for you – all carefully selected with one key aim in mind… to create cultural exchange through the best of international film.”
DIFF’s celebrated outdoor screenings under tropical night skies at Deckchair Cinema expand in 2025 with Sunset Screenings at Darwin Ski Club, and free family friendly screenings in Palmerston’s Goyder Square.
The Movies at MAGNT program presents DIFF by day (in air-conditioning!) with an incredible seven short film showcases, four feature films and an industry workshop delivered by and for early career filmmakers. A highlight from the short film showcases is DIFF2DIFF by Dili International Film Festival presented by Lena Lenzen, Director of the other DIFF and Timorese filmmaker Adi Periera.
DIFF partners with Screen Territory for two special NT on Screen events, which connect the festival to the 2025 NT Screen Summit.
DIFF AT DECKCHAIR
DIFF presents the NT Premieres of 16 award-winning feature films curated for Darwin’s iconic Deckchair Cinema. Every night at Deckchair is an event, with live music and different caterers creating the culinary delights for a sunset dinner.
Opening Night is the powerful new documentary, Journey Home, David Gulpilil with filmmakers, family and special guests in attendance. The late David Gulpilil AM loved to share his culture and wanted the world to see his funeral, his Bäpurru. In recognition of this, David’s family invited a film crew to record the intimate yet profound ceremony that laid David’s spirit to rest on his Homeland, bearing witness to Yolŋu cultural practices that stretch back tens of thousands of years. Narrated by Hugh Jackman with cultural storytelling by Danzal Baker aka ‘Baker Boy’, the film is by turns deeply moving, funny, action-packed and culturally rich, offering unique insight into a side of David Gulpilil’s life that was rarely in the spotlight. Repeat screening on Monday 22 September now on sale.
Closing Night features one of the most talked-about films of the year – It Was Just an Accident from legendary Iranian director Jafar Panahi who continues to push the boundaries to tell his stories. The film won Cannes Palme d’Or and took home the top prize at the Sydney Film Festival. Intense and complex, the film begins with a minor accident before spiralling into a gripping thriller.
Fresh from its world premiere at MIFF, Pasa Faho is a vibrant, heartfelt debut by Melbourne-based writer/director Kalu Oji. This film tells the story of a dedicated shoe shop owner trying to keep his family, culture and business afloat when his teenage son comes to live with him and the shop faces eviction. It’s funny, emotional and deeply grounded in Melbourne’s African‑Australian migrant community. Special guests, director Kalu Oji and producers Ivy Mutuku and Mimo Mukii will present the film at DIFF.
Yurlu | Country is a deeply moving and beautifully captured documentary chronicling Banjima Elder Maitland Parker’s final year as he fights to heal his ancestral land that has been devastated by asbestos contamination. Winner of the Doc Edge 2025 The Edge of Impact Award, the film will be followed by a panel discussion with director Yaara Bou Malham, cinematographer Tom Bannigan, Marjorie Hughes, Coreen Parker, Carmel Parker, Renira Parker and Kirsty Howey. Presented by Environment Centre NT.
Winner of 3 major prizes at Cannes including Best Actor and Best Director, Brazilian thriller The Secret Agent is a witty and highly original film which pays homage to the 70s with parallels to today. Cannes Grand Prix winner Sentimental Value is a touching dramedy from Norwegian auteur Joachim Trier and stars Stellan Skarsgard and Elle Fanning.
DIFF’s first ever Colombian film, A Poet is a comedy/drama about Oscar, an idealistic poet whose once-promising career has foundered, who meets a talented young writer from humble roots. Will his enthusiastic mentorship prove a blessing or a curse? Winner of Cannes Un Certain Regard Jury Prize and Best Film by an Emerging Director at Munich.
Sundance Film Festival’s World Cinema Grand Jury Prize winner Cactus Pears is a romantic drama about Anand who returns to his childhood home after his father’s death, and renews a connection with a childhood friend. In awarding the prize, the Jury said “This is the great modern love story… We cried, we laughed, and we wished to be loved in the same way. It is exactly what the world needs right now.”
Sundance documentary winner, Mr Nobody Against Putin is a gripping story chronicling a Russian teacher’s efforts to expose the militarization of his school amid the Ukraine invasion. Via covert footage the film unveils the personal cost of dissent and the insidious reach of state propaganda into everyday life.
Award-winning Australian director Gabrielle Brady’s The Wolves Always Come at Night is a lyrical docu-fiction that follows a Mongolian herding family forced to abandon their nomadic life after a devastating storm. Through intimate storytelling and breathtaking visuals, the film captures the emotional toll of climate change and the resilience of cultural identity.
Director/writer Eva Victor’s award-winning debut feature film Sorry, Baby is a darkly funny portrait of a woman navigating the long, uneven road to healing. With sharp writing and a disarming performance by Victor herself, it is a tender, emotionally resonant film that lingers in the silences of what’s said and what’s felt.
A rare feature film from Iraq, and an award-winner at Cannes this year, The President’s Cake is set in the 1990s, where, while his country endures war and shortages, Saddam Hussein requires every school to make a cake for his birthday. Nine year-old Lamia is chosen to bake for her school and must gather the ingredients or face the consequences.
Genre films have their moment at DIFF 2025 –
We Bury The Dead is the latest horror/thriller from Zak Hilditch (These Final Hours) who will present the film at DIFF. This visually stunning reimagining of the zombie genre as an atmospheric meditation on grief and survival stars Daisy Ridley and Mark Coles Smith .
U Are The Universe is a genre-blending sci-fi comedy from Ukraine about a space-trucker who thinks he is the last human alive after Earth’s destruction. Completed against enormous odds following the invasion of Ukraine, the film is a cosmic love story with deadpan humour and aching sincerity.
Winner of the Jury Prize at Cannes, French film Sirât follows a father and his young son who arrive at a rave in the mountains of southern Morocco in search of his daughter, who follow a group of ravers deeper in the desert. A spectacular, apocalyptic ride guaranteed to spark conversations!
Comedy horror A Useful Ghost is a quirky and highly original black comedy from Thai writer/director Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke about a man mourning his wife who died due to dust pollution. But when he discovers her spirit has returned in the form of.. a vacuum cleaner, can their love be reincarnated? Winner of the Grand Prix in Cannes Critics’ Week program.
DIFF at Deckchair features live entertainment from Alice Cotton, Leash & The Dusty Boots, Sally Balfour, Adam Scriven, Casey Jane, Ward Hancock, Pele Savage, Jaxon De Santis, Crystal Robins, Zilwa and Home on Stilts, and catering by Soul Essence, Spice Garden, Spring Catering, Flavor Feast, Yogi’s Way, DeeBee Catering, La Cantinette, Three Mum’s Kitchen, Christine’s Exotic Eats and Darwin Catering Co.
SCREEN TERRITORY’S ‘NT ON SCREEN’ & DIFF PRESENT
Special event screenings of NT-made, Screen Territory-backed productions Kangaroo and the Amazon Prime series Top End Bub are the ultimate celebration NT on Screen, and lead into the highly anticipated NT Screen Summit industry program on the final weekend of DIFF – Saturday 20 September & Sunday 21 September.
The Darwin red carpet screening of Kangaroo is a free (ticketed) community event at Event Cinemas Palmerston, with special guests including the founder of Alice Springs Kangaroo Sanctuary Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns – whose story inspired the film, star Lily Whiteley, producer and actor Trisha Morton-Thomas, actor Ernie Dingo, producer Rachel Clements and more!
Miranda Tapsell returns to Darwin to present an exclusive screening of the first three episodes of Top End Bub at Deckchair Cinema. Miranda and her co-creator, writer Josh Tyler will be joined by special guests from the cast and crew for a Top End cinematic celebration!
Director of Screen Territory Jennie Hughes said [DRAFT] “The 2025 NT Screen Summit celebrates an incredible year in NT screen production with a packed two-day program of panels and presentations including sessions dedicated Screen Territory supported productions, Journey Home, David Gulpilil, Kangaroo, Top End Bub.”
MOVIES AT MAGNT
The Museum and Art Gallery Northern Territory has you covered with a packed program of day-time events, all in the airconditioned comfort of their theatrette.
David Gulpilil Remembrance & Legacy is a special program to honour the late Yolngu actor’s enduring impact and features a special screening of Storm Boy (1976), Walkabout (1971) and a short film showcase highlighting the diversity of his career.
Documentary Japarta is the story of a Japanese scholar, Minoru Hokari, who tasked by Gurindji Elders to relay stories from their culture to the wider world. One of the film’s directors, Prof Ann McGrath, will present the film.
DIFF’s short film showcases celebrate the bold creativity and storytelling spirit of short-form filmmakers through a diverse selection of narrative and documentary shorts. From imaginative fiction to raw personal truths, these films span a range of styles, technologies and voices – from emerging talents to seasoned storytellers.
The short film showcases are: DIFF2DIFF – Dili International Film Festival, with special guests Lena Lenzen, Adi Pereira, Indigenous Shorts with special guests Will Porter and Sylvia Nulpinditj (Gumurr-Däl) and Alex Ressel (Djarrng – Renewing Stories on Stone , Australian Narratives with special guest Nathan Sirikumara (Famished), Australian Documentaries with special guest Anthony Bautovich (Darlinghurst Eats Its Young),,Best of Annecy Kids 2025 and Best of Annecy 2025.
Finally at MAGNT, DIFF presents a special screening of NT-made feature Tracy, directed and written by Darwin-based Kostadinos Hatzivalsamis, produced by Iona Francis, followed by an industry workshop which offers an immersive experience for aspiring filmmakers, students and creative enthusiasts.
DIFF IN PALMERSTON
The City of Palmerston has partnered with DIFF to present FREE family fun at Goyder Square on Saturday nights during DIFF. Entertainment by Fairy Jill, movie treats by Curled Ice Cream and Katja’s Delicious Popcorn, is followed by a little Deckchair magic with a film under the stars. The Canterville Ghost screens on Saturday 13 September and Bookworm screens on Saturday 20 September.
DIFF x SKI CLUB SUNSET SCREENINGS
September sunsets get even better this year with screenings at Darwin Ski Club! Friday 19 September is 90s night – your chance to relive the fashion, music and attitude through cult films Reality Bites and Empire Records.
A free family-friendly screening of Top End Wedding on Sunday 21 September is a perfect way to kick off the school holidays!
DIFF FILM FESTIVAL FEAST @ SKI CLUB
The popular Film Festival Feast returns on Saturday 20 September, with the all-time film noir classic – Casablanca. Dress to impress in your best Territory Rig x Art Deco fashion, enjoy the musical stylings of local band, Zilwa, and feast on a three-course meal of seasonal flavours brought to you by Darwin Catering Co.
The 11-day Darwin International Film Festival is presented by the Darwin Film Society, NT Government Community Benefit Fund, NT Major Events and Screen Territory. DIFF gratefully acknowledges the support of its Major Government Partner, Screen Australia, alongside City of Palmerston and Randazzo Properties.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW – INCLUDING THE NEW DIFF FLEXIPASS
DIFF’s new 10-session FLEXIPASS is valid for opening night, the program launch and all regular sessions, with tickets at Member prices: www.diff.net.au/flexipass
At only $140 for 10 sessions, and able to be shared, or used to purchase multiple tickets to a single session, the DIFF FLEXIPASS is the ultimate way to enjoy the festival – flexible, affordable and perfect for those who want to dive into bold stories, global gems and local favourites.
Minister for Tourism and Hospitality and Major Events Marie-Clare Boothby said festivals like DIFF didn’t just showcase outstanding local stories, they also supported local jobs, brought in visitors, and helped grow creative industries crucial to a strong and diverse economy.
“We are strong supporters of our arts sector, including screen production, which plays a vital role in our commitment to rebuilding the economy and restoring our unique Territory lifestyle,” said Ms Boothby.
“With a packed program featuring 35 sessions across 11 days, ranging from emerging filmmakers to established screen professionals, festivals like DIFF shine a spotlight on our talented local creatives – including 3 major NT film events celebrating Territory talent and stories.
“DIFF isn’t just about what’s on screen, it’s about the whole experience – watching films on the big screen while kicked back in a deckchair outdoors.”
Darwin International Film Festival 11-21 September 2025
https://www.diff.net.au | DIFF Facebook | DIFF Insta
NT Screen Summit 20-21 September 2025
Screen Territory | Screen Territory Facebook
DIFF GUESTS 2025
Sept11 Opening Night: Journey Home, David Gulpilil –Maggie Miles, Trisha Morton-Thomas, Rachel Clements,
Joyce Malakuya Malibirr, Jida Gulpilil, Lloyd Garrawurra, Witiyana Marika, Peter Murrkiltja Guyula,
Alfred Yangipuy Wanambi
Sept14: Pasa Faho – Director Kalu Oji and producers Mimo Mukii and Ivy Mutuku
Sept14: Tracy – Director Kostadinos Hatzivalsamis, Producer Iona Francis
Sept14: DIFF2DIFF Dili International Film Festival at MAGNT, Festival Director Lena Lenzen and filmmaker/actor Adi Pereira who directed Noylista, Kbiit Buibere, Silent Drop, The Writer short films
Sept15: Japarta – Director, Professor Ann McGrath
Sept15: Silent Drop short film – Director Adi Pereira (Timor-Leste) (screens before The Wolves Always Come At Night)
Sept17: Kangaroo – Chris ‘Brolga’ Barns, Lily Whiteley, Ernie Dingo, Trisha Morton-Thomas, Rachel Clements, Elizabeth Trotman, Greg Denning
Sept17: Many Histories -Many Stories short film – Petrit Abazi (screens before Sentimental Value)
Sept18: Yurlu | Country –Yaara Bou Melhem, Tom Bannigan, Marjorie Hughes, Coreen Parker, Carmel Parker, Renira Parker, Kirsty Howey
Sept 18: Indigenous Shorts at MAGNT – Gumurr-Däl Will Porter and Sylvia Nulpinditj, Djarrng – Renewing Stories on Stone Alex Ressel
Sept19: Top End Bub – Miranda Tapsell, Joshua Tyler, Shari Sebbens, Christiaan Van Vuuren, Rosemary Blight
Libby Collins, Ben Grant, Sarah Christie
Sept20: We Bury The Dead – Zak Hilditch
Sept20: Australian Narrative Shorts at MAGNT Famished –Nathan Sirikumara
Sept20: Australian Documentary Shorts at MAGNT Darlinghurst Eats its Young – Anthony Bautovich
