It is both an honour and a genuine pleasure for the Reykjavík International Film Festival to announce the distinguished guests attending RIFF Industry Days 2026, all of whom are among the most influential figures in the world of cinema today.
Among this year’s participants is Erik Hemmendorff of Plattform Produktion , who has produced most of the films by award-winning director Ruben Östlund, among others. We are also delighted to welcome Susan Wendt, CEO of TrustNordisk , one of the largest sales and distribution companies in the Nordic region. Finally, RIFF looks forward to welcoming Rémi Burah, Deputy General Director and Board Member at ARTE , one of Europe’s most respected and influential cultural television networks. Rémi has been involved in the production of around 300 films.
These industry experts offer a unique opportunity to connect directly with people who are true driving forces in the world of cinema. This is particularly important at a time when professionals in Iceland’s film industry have repeatedly described the current situation as a “state of emergency in the film sector” and a “freeze in the industry.” We encourage anyone interested to secure their place at RIFF Industry Days.
UNIQUE ACCESS TO INFLUENTIAL PEOPLE
RIFF Industry Days comprise five days of an intensive programme featuring panel discussions, masterclasses and face-to-face conversations with people who are accustomed to making things happen in the world of cinema. Participants also have the opportunity to spend a full day exploring Icelandic nature with industry professionals in a relaxed setting during RIFF’s annual industry trip. For more than two decades, Reykjavík has attracted some of the most influential voices in filmmaking, including Miloš Forman, Jim Jarmusch, Ruben Östlund, Isabelle Huppert, Mads Mikkelsen and Claire Denis. Every September, the distinguished group of participants at Industry Days continues to grow.
COUNTRY IN FOCUS: PORTUGAL
This year, we turn the spotlight on Portugal’s rich cinematic tradition. The focus is reflected, among other things, in panel discussions on international co-production and three projects featuring Portuguese participants in the Work in Progress Showcase.
A special Portugal Day will also be part of the programme, featuring a carefully curated selection of Portuguese films, in-depth conversations with honorary guests and a strong Portuguese delegation attending Industry Days in Reykjavík.
- Maria de Medeiros — actress and honorary guest
- João Pedro Rodrigues — director and honorary guest
- Edgar Medina — producer at Arquipélago Filmes
- Manuel Claro — Vice President of the Portuguese Film Institute
- Vítor Pinheiro — Executive Director of the Portuguese Film Institute
More names will be announced at a later date.
RIFF Industry Days take place from September 29 to October 3.
