Thursday 8 October 2026

Thank You for This Year!

The ninth edition of Filmfest Sundsvall has come to an end, and we look back on six fantastic festival days filled with cinematic experiences, inspiring encounters, music and conversations. A huge thank you to everyone who helped make this year's festival possible!

From September 29 to October 4, Bio Drakstaden was filled with films from around the world and a wonderful festival atmosphere. Together with both new and returning festivalgoers, we enjoyed premieres, special previews, engaging discussions and much more.

This year's festival offered many memorable moments. From the European premiere of Arne Goes to Space on opening night to the world premiere of Jävla karlar (Bloody Men), which closed the festival. We travelled to the Alps through this year's Spotlight programme, sang along to Grease, revisited Sällskapsresan II – Snowroller, met filmmakers from near and far, and celebrated Film Västernorrland's 30th anniversary. We also welcomed film lovers of all ages to Barnens Filmfest, where Nelly Rapp – Porten till underjorden had its world premiere.

During the festival's Industry Days, the focus was on topics including costume design, film music and music supervision. French costume designer Pierre-Yves Gayraud gave a masterclass, and we gained insights into the creative process behind the music for the TV series Jag for ner till bror, alongside several other fascinating discussions.

This year's guests of honour were costume designer Sanna Nyström and musician Johan Airijoki, both of whom took part in discussions during the festival. Johan Airijoki also treated the audience to a live concert.

This year also saw the introduction of two new festival awards: Best Film Music in a Swedish Short Film and the Children's Jury Award, where children themselves got to choose their favourite film.

But above all, it's the people who make Filmfest Sundsvall what it is. All of you who filled the cinemas, took part in discussions, discovered new films, shared experiences and contributed to the festival atmosphere.

A huge and heartfelt thank you to our audience, filmmakers, guests, jury members, volunteers, partners and everyone else who contributed to this year's festival in so many different ways. Without you, there would be no Filmfest Sundsvall!

Thank you for a wonderful festival! See you in 2027!