The first international film festival in Karabakh and Eastern Zangazur has opened in Lachin, bringing filmmakers and cinema professionals from Azerbaijan and abroad together for several days of screenings and discussions.
The Lachin International Film Festival (LIFF 2026) will run until August 27.
Nearly 300 films from 47 countries were submitted for consideration. Following the international selection process, 38 films – 20 international and 18 Azerbaijani productions were chosen for the festival’s official programme.
The line-up features films from countries including Trkiye, Uzbekistan, Iran, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Greece, Norway, France, Ukraine, Pakistan, Germany, Poland, Spain, Indonesia, Moldova, Serbia and India.
The main screenings are taking place from August 24 to 26 at LaCinema, Lachin’s dedicated cinema venue. Alongside the film programme, the festival includes panel discussions and other events bringing together local and international figures from the film industry.
The official opening ceremony is scheduled for August 25.
One of the main discussions that day will focus on Azerbaijan-Turkiye cooperation in cinema, with industry professionals discussing opportunities for joint productions and closer creative partnerships.
The festival will conclude with a closing and awards ceremony on August 26, coinciding with Lachin City Day.