The 21st Zurich Film Festival (ZFF) is scheduled to run from September 25 to October 5, 2025, presenting a curated selection of gala premieres. The festival will feature anticipated Hollywood productions alongside significant international films. Among the highlights is Benny Safdie's biographical sports drama, 'The Smashing Machine,' starring Dwayne Johnson as MMA fighter Mark Kerr. The film, which explores Kerr's career and personal struggles, had its world premiere at the Venice International Film Festival on September 1, 2025, and is set for a US release by A24 on October 3, 2025. Emily Blunt also stars as Kerr's wife, Dawn Staples. Nia DaCosta's 'Hedda,' a contemporary adaptation of Henrik Ibsen's play, will have its European premiere at ZFF, with Tessa Thompson in the titular role. Another featured film is Paul Greengrass's survival drama, 'The Lost Bus,' starring Matthew McConaughey as a bus driver navigating a wildfire and America Ferrera as a teacher involved in rescuing children.
In recognition of her significant contributions to film scoring, the festival will honor acclaimed Icelandic composer Hildur Guðnadóttir with the Career Achievement Award on October 2, 2025. Guðnadóttir, known for her scores in films like 'Joker' and 'Tár,' has received an Academy Award, an Emmy, a Golden Globe, and multiple Grammy Awards. She will also serve as the president of the jury for the 13th International Film Music Competition. The ZFF's gala section has a history of premiering films that achieve critical success and Oscar nominations, establishing the festival as a key platform for cinematic talent. The full festival program is slated for release on September 11, 2025, with tickets going on sale starting September 15, 2025.