Lights, camera, Centennial Park … the world’s biggest short film festival returns to Sydney
Sydney Morning Herald
by Garry MaddoxFebruary 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The world’s largest short film festival, Tropfest, is set to make its highly anticipated return to Sydney after a seven-year hiatus. Scheduled for February 26, 2026, the event will showcase 16 finalists selected from over 700 entries, with films screened in Centennial Park. Among the highlights is Stephen Packer’s "Unprompted," which explores the impact of AI on creativity through the story of a screenwriter turned to AI for help, only to find himself cast as the victim. The film has garnered praise for its timely and thought-provoking narrative.
Tropfest’s revival marks a significant milestone, with a new non-profit foundation backing the event. The festival is supported by a prestigious lineup of business, sport, and entertainment figures, including Sarah Murdoch, John Polson, Peter V’landys, and Bryan Brown. A distinguished judging panel led by Margot Robbie will evaluate the films, alongside other notable names like Sarah Snook and Dylan River.
The festival’s return has been met with overwhelming interest, drawing global attention through live-streaming on YouTube and attracting tens of thousands of attendees. Beyond its main event, Tropfest is now a year-round initiative aimed at nurturing emerging talent. This includes Roughcut talks on filmmaking skills, mentorship programs, and the Trop Jnr competition for young filmmakers. These efforts reflect Tropfest’s commitment to fostering creativity and providing opportunities for future generations of filmmakers.
The festival’s significance lies in its ability to launch careers and bring global attention to short films. Previous alumni include directors like Justin Kurzel and Nash Edgerton, who achieved recognition after their work at Tropfest. This year’s event promises to continue that legacy, offering a platform for both established and up-and-coming talent. With its focus on innovation and creativity in the face of technological advancements like AI, Tropfest remains a vital cultural event with global relevance.
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Originally published on Sydney Morning Herald on 2/20/2026