Malta’s Mediterrane Film Festival is returning for its fourth edition this summer, and it’s levelling up in a big way.Organised by the Malta Film Commission, the festival will take over Valletta between 21st and 28th June, bringing a packed programme of screenings, industry events and international talent to the capital.After last year’s milestone edition celebrating Malta’s 100-year history in film, organisers are pushing things even further in 2026 with the theme “Beyond Together.”This year’s film programme is expanding from three to five strands, including a Big Screen Competition for major productions, a Mediterranean Competition spotlighting regional and local stories, Mare Nostrum focusing on environmental themes, Best of the World showcasing global cinema, and Malta Focus dedicated entirely to homegrown films.Screenings will be held across some of Valletta’s most iconic venues, including Embassy Cinema, Upper Barrakka Gardens and Fort Ricasoli, with Q&As, panels and masterclasses also on the lineup.Previous editions have welcomed major industry names like Mike Leigh, Yorgos Mavropsaridis and Russell Crowe, who even picked up a film legend award last year.The festival will once again culminate in the Golden Bee Awards on 28th June, where a jury of industry professionals will select the winning films.Malta Film Commissioner Johann Grech said the festival continues to grow as a key link between Malta and the global film industry, while director Pierre Agius highlighted plans to make the event even more impactful both culturally and internationally.And there’s a meaningful twist too, all ticket sales from screenings will go towards local cancer charity Puttinu Cares.From blockbuster screenings to local storytelling, this year’s Mediterrane Film Festival is shaping up to be one of Malta’s biggest cultural events of the summer.Credit: Y! Entertainment•