2026 Naples International Film Festival
Hayes Hall
October 22 at 7pm
Tickets for the Opening Night Shorts Package are available for presentation in Hayes Hall.
Opening Night Film and Party
2026 Naples International Film Festival
Kick off the 18th Annual Naples International Film Festival with one of the most anticipated celebrations of the year. Walk the red carpet, grab complimentary popcorn, candy and soft drinks, and settle into Hayes Hall for the festival’s opening night film.
But the fun doesn’t end when the credits roll! Party ticket holders are invited to Norris Garden, aglow for the occasion and filled with savory hors d’oeuvres from favorite local spots, along with complimentary house wine, beer and a signature cocktail.
VIP ticket holders enjoy an elevated experience on the Baird Terrace at The Baker Museum, where they’ll mix and mingle with NIFF filmmakers while savoring premium hors d’oeuvres, wine, beer and cocktails.
Red Carpet at 6pm
Film at 7pm
Film Only $40
Film and Party $125
Film and VIP Party $225
Red Carpet Arrival — 6pm
Film Presentation — 7pm
Opening Night Presentation
Opening Night Shorts
Jazz Infernal
2025, G, Canada, Drama, 17 minutes
Filmmakers in Attendance
French with English Subtitles
Director: Will Niava
Producers: Zion Lipstein-Saffer, Samuel Caron
Writers: Will Niava, Kristelle Laroche
Cast: Ange-Eric N’guessan, Alexis Belhumeur, Kalombo Kasongo
A young musician arrives in an unfamiliar city with only the legacy of his father to guide him. To succeed, he must confront his roots and find his own voice.
My Dog: The Paradox
2026, N/R, U.S., Animation, 7 minutes
Florida Premiere
Director: Matthew Inman
Producer: Lotty Vigue
Writer: Matthew Inman
Cast: Matthew Inman, Eric Bryan Moore, Allie Brosh
Rambo is ridiculous, lovable and destined to break his owner’s heart. From the creator of The Oatmeal, My Dog: The Paradox explores the strange joy and inevitable grief of loving a dog.
Body of Work
2026, N/R, U.S., Documentary, 25 minutes
Florida Premiere
Florida Film
Directors: Cassidy Rast, Odin Wadleigh
Producers: Cassidy Rast, Odin Wadleigh
Writers: Cassidy Rast, Odin Wadleigh
Cast: Eric Anfinson, Martin Wolfe, Sally Binart, Robin Roberts
After a spinal injury in high school redirects his life, Eric Anfinson discovers his true calling as a painter.
We Were Here
2026, N/R, India, Comedy, 11 minutes
Florida Premiere
Foreign Language with English Subtitles
Director: Pranav Bhasin
Producer: Yash Gonsai
Writer: Pranav Bhasin
Cast: Satish Kashyap, Devendra Dodke, Arindol Bagchi
In a crumbling Indian town, three retired men protest machines replacing human jobs by pretending to be household appliances.
Life Goes On
2026, PG-13, U.K., Dramedy, 19 minutes
East Coast Premiere
Filmmakers in Attendance
Directors: Daniel Audritt, Kat Butterfield
Producers: Daniel Audritt, Kat Butterfield
Writers: Daniel Audritt, Kat Butterfield
Cast: David Bradley, Maggie Steed, Laura Checkley, Matt Berry, Amanda Root, Mark Davison, Jayne Aguire, Joe Da Costa, Paul G. Raymond
Bill is waiting for the sweet release of death. Unfortunately for him, he’s stuck in an infinite time loop that causes the day to restart the second his heart stops.
Festival Presenting Sponsors Richard and Christine Lublin.
Opening Night Film and Party Sponsor
Generous support also provided by the Collier County Tourist Development Council.
