Once again this year, continuing a cherished tradition, Diagonale celebrated the presence of Austrian films at the Viennale by inviting guests to a cocktail reception at Café Ansari. The occasion also offered film industry professionals a first glimpse of the upcoming festival edition, with which Diagonale will celebrate its 30th anniversary in Graz in 2027: A special Position dedicated to Birgit Minichmayr will pay tribute to the versatile and influential work of this exceptional actor, while Georg Petermichl will create the anniversary trailer. A short photographic look back at the evening can be found → here

We are pleased to announce that Dominik Kamalzadeh and Claudia Slanar have had their contracts as joint Festival Directors extended through 2029 and will therefore continue to lead the Festival of Austrian Film up to and including Diagonale ’29.

Paul Schwind was also elected as the new Co-Chair of the Forum österreichischer Film association, succeeding Dagmar Streicher, who has stepped down from the association.

More information → here

Film submissions for Diagonale ’27 as well as for the Franz Grabner Prize 2027 are accepted online from September 1 to November 30, 2026. Further information on the respective submission criteria and the planned timelines can be found → here

We look forward to your work and the
upcoming Diagonale ‘27!