Illawarra Film Society members will have the opportunity to experience 32 movies this year. Photo: Supplied.
The Illawarra Film Society is rolling out its most feel-good season yet, returning in February with 32 handpicked international and Australian offerings — all for less than the price of a single movie ticket a month.
Opening with the charming French comedy-drama Holy Cow on 8 February, the much-loved film society is inviting members back to Sunday nights at the Gala Twin Cinema in Warrawong for its 13th year of world-class cinema and community connection.
During the 2026 season, which runs until 15 November in what is often described as being “like a year-long film festival”, IFS members will get to see 32 films, from drama to comedy, cult classics, and documentary, all for only $99.
The Illawarra non-profit has become a local success story, established as a passion project in 2012 to bring acclaimed new releases to audiences on the South Coast, and now boasting the title of one of Australia’s largest film societies.
“Our members love the opportunity to see a quality selection of films they wouldn’t see anywhere else,” IFS chair and curator Jeannine Baker said.
“They also appreciate supporting the Illawarra’s only remaining independent cinema.
“We know our audiences want to be entertained, so this year’s program includes several upbeat films we know will leave people feeling good.”
Jeannine said IFS membership was an incredible deal for movie lovers, with the annual $99 fee covering 32 exclusive screenings on Sunday nights from February to November, equating to about $3 per film.
“But it’s also a ticket into a welcoming community of like-minded people captivated by the power of cinema, with around 450 members in 2025,” she said.
Short films screen before some features, and there’s also the chance to meet Illawarra filmmakers and other special guests.
Following the 8 February opening with Holy Cow, the program will feature Iraqi Camera d’Or winner The President’s Cake, absurdist Canadian comedy-drama Universal Language, and the moving Thai film How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies.
Adding to the line-up is an incredible Ukrainian sci-fi drama U Are the Universe, and Ice Maiden, a thrilling documentary about Australian adventurer Lisa Blair, who set out to be the first woman to sail solo and non-stop around Antarctica.
Several classics will also add an air of nostalgia, thrilling audiences decades after the productions first appeared on the big screen.
Among them will be the original summer blockbuster, Steven Spielberg’s Jaws, a new digital restoration of stylish German thriller Run Lola Run, and The Hidden Fortress, from Japanese master Akira Kurosawa.
Illawarra Film Society will also pay tribute to American actor, director and producer Robert Redford, who died in 2025, with a screening of Alan J. Pakula’s acclaimed All the President’s Men.
Learn more about the Illawarra Film Society, view the program, and buy a membership.
