All works selected for the Festival (on 16mm, 35mm or Beta SP PAL format) will be screened in their original language with English subtitles

The objectives of the Sydney Film Festival are: to create and maintain interest in the cinema by introducing worthwhile films from around the world to as diverse an audience as possible; to stimulate debate and informed discussion; to present films of merit which might not otherwise be shown in Sydney, as well as a retrospective selection of films deserving of revival; to gain attention and publicity for the films shown and to assist in their wider Australian distribution; to promote better understanding among nations through the film medium; to support the Australian film industry, and; to be at the forefront of innovation in a rapidly changing and multi-faceted art form.

Since its inception in 1954, the Sydney Film Festival has increased in size and reputation to become the leading international film festival in Australia.

The festival is recognised by FIAPF (Federation Internationale des Associations de Producteurs de Films). The festival¿s patrons are Gilliam Armstrong, Jane Campion, Nicole Kidman, Baz Luhrmann, Dr George Miller and Phillip Noyce.

The Sydney Film Festival is a limited liability company and non-profit organisation administered by a board of directors and is supported by official institutions, such as the Australian Film Commission, the New South Wales Film and Television Office, Tourism NSW and the City of Sydney.

The festival program celebrates the best of the world's cinema and includes features, shorts, animations, documentaries and retrospectives, as well as a series of forums and lectures with local and international industry professionals, critics and academics.