12 International Filmmakers; 12 International Shorts; 12 Films with Heart

The multi-award-winning short film festival returns to FRINGE WORLD 2026 with an all-new flock of short films guaranteed to both soothe and jolt the senses.

Twelve international filmmakers, twelve eclectic international shorts, and ninety minutes of screen time—each one brimming with heart—come together for an unforgettable cinematic experience. This year's selection spans a multitude of genres and themes: sometimes quirky, sometimes deeply moving, but always offering a raw, heartfelt expression in myriad forms.

Far from an ordinary short film showcase, 12 Films Heart highlights works from independent and underground creators who embrace a strong DIY aesthetic. "12 Films Heart seeks a bold DIY spirit," says 12 Films spokesperson Bright Hubbermann. "It's the films you could have made but didn't—works free of external constraints and driven by a filmmaker's passion to bring their vision to life."

Join us at FRINGE WORLD 2026, where 12 Films Heart reaffirms that boundary-pushing ingenuity and heartfelt storytelling thrive.

Screening 7:30 PM FRINGE WORLD Saturdays: 24 January, 7 February & Valentine’s 14 February 2026

About the screening
12 Films Heart is a free-to-the-public screening under the stars, just a heartbeat from the Pleasure Garden, screening at the City of Perth Northbridge Piazza Superscreen.

Limited beanbag seating is available for this screening. 12 Films Heart screens following the LIGHTBOX SLOW GLOW SESSIONS, with the site opening an hour before the 12 Films Heart screening.

Early birds can relax on the lawn, enjoy live music and digital artworks, and savour the renowned culinary delights of Northbridge. 12 Films Heart runs for approximately 90 minutes.

12 Films Heart and the Lightbox Slow Glow Sessions are free and under the stars.

The films are selected for a FRINGE WORLD audience and may not be of interest to children. 

Find out more | 12filmsheart.com

The City of Perth Northbridge Piazza is an urban park on the corner of James and Lake Streets, Northbridge and is an initiative of the City of Perth.