Do you love spontaneous movie nights and prefer to be right by the river? Then we have the perfect fall activity for you! From October 15 to 18, 2026, the Isarlichtspiele will take place again, transforming the historic Museum Lichtspiele near the riverbank into a hub for local film art. Launched three years ago by Moses Wolff, a Munich-based actor and cultural organizer, this free festival features four days of films exclusively by Munich-based filmmakers. The best part: Admission to all events is completely free! Just stop by, enjoy authentic Munich classics on the big screen, and after the screenings, take the opportunity to mingle with directors and actors.
Cult comedies and celebrity appearances: Here’s what to expect at the festival’s opening
The festival kicked off on Thursday, October 15, at 7:00 p.m., with a very special highlight from German film history. The 1968 cult comedy hit “Zur Sache, Schätzchen” by director May Spils was screened. The screening took place in honor of writer and lead actor Werner Enke, who passed away this summer. In addition, none other than Munich acting icon Uschi Glas was there in person to honor the film with you. On Friday evening, the high-caliber program continues. At 7:00 p.m., screenwriter Hanns Christian Müller invites you to “Kehraus.” This timeless social satire from 1983 takes aim at the pitfalls of everyday life with unmistakable Bavarian humor and continues to bring immense joy even after more than 40 years.
The weekend program at the Isarlichtspiele
The weekend also promises fantastic entertainment for all fans of local stories.
🎬 Munich – Secrets of a City (Saturday, October 17 at 7:00 p.m.): Director Dominik Graf presents his atmospheric portrait of the city from the year 2000. Following the film, you’ll have the chance to discuss it with the director in person.
🎥 Retrospective & Sneak Preview (Sunday, October 18 at 12:00 p.m.): To wrap up the film festival, director Richard Westermaier will present a selection of his films. As the grand finale, you’ll also get an exclusive sneak preview of a film just before its official world premiere.
Munich has several alternative cinemas that cover the entire spectrum, from independent productions to arthouse films. But the Museum-Lichtspiele stands out as the city’s oldest operating cinema, with its unique history, distinctive auditorium design, and a curious world record. After all, *The Rocky Horror Picture Show* has been playing here nonstop since 1977! So don’t miss out on this highlight—a one-of-a-kind mix of local cinematic art, iconic personalities, and free movie fun!
