Spirit of Balinale
Started in 2007, the annual Bali International Film Festival, known as Balinale, enjoys international recognition for its diverse programming of independent fiction, documentary, feature length, and short films that represent compelling stories from Indonesia and different parts of the world.
Balinale is known for its industry forums that connect filmmakers for collaboration and idea exchange. These forums foster cultural exchange, co-production opportunities, and inspire future creatives.
The festival participates in both local and international events, collaborating with renowned institutions and aligned organizations.
Balinale is officially endorsed by Indonesia’s national and provincial governments for its cultural and economic contributions.
Community development and educational initiatives are supported by the festival’s Creative Arts Indonesia Foundation.
Beyond the Screen
Our Story
From Bali’s iconic coastline to the remote beauty of the archipelago,
Balinale showcases the cinematic backdrops that have a history of inspiring filmmakers and travellers alike.
2026
New category established for emerging Indonesian filmmakers, Tapestry of Indonesia. 94 films from 38 countries, including 23 Indonesian, with 20 World, 10 International, and 26 Asian Premieres and a record number of filmmakers attending.
2025
Establishing itself in Sanur, Balinale screened the first ever IMAX 3D in Bali and hosted 50+ filmmakers from 10+ countries.
2024
Establishing itself in Sanur, Balinale screened the first ever IMAX 3D in Bali and hosted 50+ filmmakers from 10+ countries.
2023
Balinale presented the Asian Premiere of NUCLEAR NOW by Oliver Stone, along with an art exhibition featuring recycled plastic sculptures. AICEF Film Awards were held and continuation of The Juilliard School – Art of the Score program.
2022
Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema, and a virtual hologram for the first time in Indonesia. The Juilliard School – Center for Innovation in the Arts established a creative partnership with Balinale and Bali Film Center.
2021
Bali Film Forum, NFT (Non-Fungible Token) in the Film Industry discussed a new platform for investors. Asian Film Awards Academy held a pre-festival program called Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation in Jakarta. AICEF Cultural Film Awards program was launched.
2019
Special Premieres of stories for or about children in collaboration with the prestigious Berlinale: Spotlight Generation. The program director Maryanne Redpath conducted a workshop on short films and the importance of establishing affiliations.
2018
Special Festival Guest Roland Joffe’. Part of his festival program was a location scout to identify potential locations for a project in development MATA HARI, incorporating Indonesian landscapes, historical sites, traditional materials, and designs.
2017
Focus on Japanese Cinema PONYO and MY NEIGHBOUR TOTORO by Studio Ghibli, the Japanese animation studio based in Koganei, Tokyo. The program included demonstration on various media formats, and discussions Archiving and restoration seminar.
2016
Balinale Introduced the public to new technologies and ideas through exhibitions, talks, and live demonstrations on Costume Design, Set Design, SFX Workshops, and Equipment Demonstrations.
2015
The Art of Storytelling Hosted Emmy Award-Winning Filmmaker Farland Chang (USA) on how to prepare for professional on-camera work. Special Effects demonstration and camera equipment exhibition. Documentary filmmaking workshop with Richard Todd.
2014
Special Festival Guest: Michael Rowe, winner of Cannes Camera D’or, Venice Film Festival and numerous other accolades. Roadshow of screenings with American Film Showcase, Sundance Institute’s Film Forward.
2013
Balinale hosted a film section for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC Bali Summit). Motion Picture Association International (MPA-I) hosted movie screenings and participated in a workshop on IP protection.
2012
The festival held the World Premiere of ALEX CROSS directed by Rob Cohen and filmed in Indonesia. A workshop with NYU Tisch Asia on Breaking the Celluloid Ceiling supporting women under-represented in a male-dominated industry.
2011
Balinale hosted the 18th annual ASEAN Summit and Film Festival. BORN TO BE WILD 3D was premiered at the festival presented by its scriptwriter. There was a special showing of the film in Jakarta in 2012 attended by President RI Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono at Keong Emas IMAX Theater, Jakarta.
2010
EAT PRAY LOVE was the first major studio film shot in Indonesia contributing to the local industry development, country’s filming reputation, and its economy. Balinale was given the rights to show the film’s World Premiere in Jakarta..
2009
BAFTA award-winning producer Davina Belling shared her 30 year experience in conducting a three-day seminar on how to create and market your next great film. There were 25 films from 12 countries shown in the main festival program.
2008
Balinale held a forum Why Hollywood is Looking East with producer Philip Lee, and exec. producer Stan Wlodkowski. Director Howard Hall presented a special premiere of his Warner Bros IMAX film DEEP SEA 3D and discussed the upcoming UNDER THE SEA 3D.
2007
Bali International Film Festival launches with 24 films from 7 countries in the main festival program. The festival presented a special showcase of its first student documentary film project at the UN Conference on Climate Change.
Balinale’s Commitment
We are committed to presenting a program that celebrates storytelling that inspires artists and audiences and illustrates creative freedom and expression.
To showcase locally produced films as a means of illustrating the country’s artistic capabilities and true potential, and to expose Indonesia’s unique locations, diverse cultures, and talented individuals at its core.
screenings and premieres
Workshops and Seminars
Filmmakers Gathering
Bali Film Industry Forums
Open Air Cinema- Awards and Prizes
- School visits
Children’s Program
Our
Founder
Deborah Gabinetti
Balinale’s Festival Director
Deborah established Balinale in 2007. She is also Director of the Bali Film Center, a trusted partner in facilitating international film and television productions throughout Indonesia. A respected juror, speaker, and advisor, she has contributed to leading film festivals, markets, and global industry forums. Through the Creative Arts Indonesia Foundation, she advances education, cultural exchange, and international creative collaboration. Her areas of expertise include festival strategy and programming, government liaison, cultural diplomacy, and international industry development.
Behind the Scenes
An enthusiastic team of professionals with extensive, in-depth experience in film, entertainment, and related industries form the Committee.
A reputable profile in the international film industry, a long-term commitment to the local community, and strong government relations help guide the festival’s development.
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Siti Sundari
Festival Manager
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Yoke Darmawan
Communications Director
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Donny Damara
Festival Advisor
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Arianna Teoh
Executive Producer
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Dean Tolhurst
Technical Director
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Richard Halstead
Festival Programming
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Hari Crandall
Projection Manager
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Aris Muda Irawan
Marketing & Promotions
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Dr. Lawrence Blair
Senior Program Advisor
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Donna Smith
International Advisor
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Ginevra Marchesini
Research & Development
Balinale (Bali International Film Festival) proudly announces that it has been officially approved as an Academy Award® Qualifying Film Festival for Best Short Film.
Oscar recognition celebrates our past accomplishments and is a commitment to our future. It significantly boosts the festival’s prominence and our ability to showcase films that celebrate stories from Indonesia and worldwide. It also provides filmmakers with a platform to gain recognition, find new opportunities, and obtain a broader audience.
Deborah Gabinetti
Balinale’s Founder