TRT launches 12 Punto 2026 with global filmmakers in Istanbul

The Turkish public broadcaster has launched the 8th edition of 12 Punto 2026 in Istanbul, bringing together filmmakers, producers, critics and industry professionals from around the world to strengthen international film cooperation.

Nearly 60 guests from 30 countries are taking part in the week-long event, which features panel discussions, masterclasses, film screenings and project presentations focused on screenplay development and co-production.

The Turkish Radio and Television (TRT) Secretary General Mesut Eker said the broadcaster remains committed to supporting filmmakers.

“Marking the 10th anniversary of the defeated July 15 coup attempt, a special section has been added to this year’s programme. Three short films selected and supported through the July 15 Short Film Project Competition will be screened outdoors on July 15, Democracy and National Unity Day,” Eker said.

Eker confirmed the return of the Palestinian Cinema Special Section, which will showcase contemporary Palestinian films for the third year in a row.

‘Spectacular year’

TRT Cinema Director Faruk Guven said 119 TRT co-production films have competed at more than 1,250 film festivals over the past five years, winning a total of 593 awards.

“2026 has already started off spectacularly for us. Our films participated in 60 festivals, bringing home 15 awards across 26 different titles. Most notably, TRT made a massive impact in the Main Competition at the 79th Cannes Film Festival this past May,” he said.

Guven also announced this year’s international jury, led by two-time Oscar-winning filmmaker Asghar Farhadi.

The panel also includes leading cinema figures from Romania, Sweden, Tunisia-France and Italy.