Reta Guetg, co-owner and director of the Zurich Film Festival, says its new owners are deliberately preserving a small, flexible identity rather than pursuing top-tier “A-festival” status. Following a management buyout from NZZ Group, the festival is strengthening its Hollywood links and aiming to become a launchpad for awards contenders, while presenting Zurich as an influential, fashionable meeting point for the film industry.

The 22nd festival opened with the European premiere of *Tenzing* and includes films such as *I Play Rocky*, *The Housewife* and *The Debut*, alongside appearances by major filmmakers and actors including Tom Hiddleston, Naomi Watts and Julianne Moore. Its 11-day programme is accompanied by the Zurich Summit, held from 25–27 September at the Dolder Grand, where international executives will discuss issues including AI, following last year’s global debate over the virtual actress Tilly Norwood; 2026 speakers include executives from FilmNation, AMPAS, CAA, UTA, Mediawan, Mubi, TikTok and YouTube.