Between November 5 and 15, 2026, The Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival returns for its 19th year, presenting a groundbreaking program of films that explore new worlds, challenge perspectives, and celebrate the vibrant diversity of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander storytelling.
This year’s festival highlights a monumental lineup including narrative and documentary features, short films, and curated showcases with a focus on LGBTQ+, Iranian and Filipino stories, as well as local filmmakers. It features an impressive slate of premieres, including 5 world premieres, 9 East Coast premieres, and 30 Philadelphia premieres.
In its 19th year, PAAFF proudly honors artists and storytellers whose work breaks boundaries and uplifts marginalized narratives, including those of migrants, refugees, and displaced people. This edition of PAAFF promises to inspire, challenge, and move audiences; to showcase visionary creatives whose works have the capacity to inform, activate, and connect us to one another across worlds and borders.
ABOUT THE PHILADELPHIA ASIAN AMERICAN FILM FOUNDATION
The Philadelphia Asian American Film Foundation (PAAFF), formerly known as Philadelphia Asian American Film and Filmmakers, is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and highlighting the experiences of the Asian and Pacific Islander diaspora through creative community-focused programs, including films, live performances, culinary demonstrations, panels, lectures, and educational workshops throughout the year and at the annual fall film festival.