The 52nd annual Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) opens Thursday, May 7, with the highly anticipated screening of I Love Boosters, a high-stakes caper from director Boots Riley starring Keke Palmer, Naomi Ackie, LaKeith Stanfield, and Demi Moore.
Running May 7 through May 17, the 2026 festival will showcase 203 films from 71 countries and regions, highlighting a wide range of voices and storytelling styles. This year’s lineup includes 71 narrative features, 34 documentaries, and 98 short films presented across 11 curated programs.
Opening night festivities will take place at the historic Paramount Theatre, beginning with a 7 p.m. screening of Riley’s latest film. The celebration will continue with the festival’s opening night party, bringing together filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences to mark the start of the 11-day event.
This year’s festival also features a range of African American and African films as part of its “Black Stories” programming, highlighting stories that reflect the depth and diversity of the Black experience. Among the featured titles are If I Go Will They Miss Me, Soul Patrol, and When a Witness Recants: Behind the Curtain.
The Seattle Medium will provide dedicated coverage throughout the festival, with a focus on films that center Black stories and perspectives. Coverage will include daily previews, in-depth reviews, and interviews with directors and talent, offering readers a closer look at the stories shaping this year’s festival.
