International film production houses are currently moving forward with a slate of new projects led by Kira Kovalenko, Diao Yinan, and Shengze Zhu. These upcoming features, spanning dramas to crime thrillers, represent a significant push in independent and international cinema production for 2026.
Kira Kovalenko’s "Heavens Don’t Care"
Kira Kovalenko, known for her 2021 Cannes Un Certain Regard-winning film Les Poings desserrés, is set to begin production on her latest project, Heavens Don’t Care, in the autumn of 2026. According to production reports, the film is a co-production between Why Not Productions, Les Films du Fleuve, and the Visan Cultural Center.
The narrative is set in Yerevan and explores the daily lives of a family navigating a blend of celebration, labor, and quiet tragedy.
Diao Yinan’s Crime Drama "Red Snow"
Diao Yinan, who earned the Golden Bear at the 2014 Berlinale for Black Coal, is currently developing a new noir project titled Red Snow. Memento Production, which is handling the project, has scheduled production to continue through October 2026.
The plot follows Lin Feng, a man who launches his own investigation after his wife is murdered on their wedding night. The film is set against the backdrop of contemporary China during a harsh winter. This project continues Diao’s focus on the noir genre, following his film Le Lac aux oies sauvages.
Shengze Zhu’s Debut Feature "A Distant House Smokes on the Horizon"
Shengze Zhu is preparing for the summer 2026 production of her debut feature film, A Distant House Smokes on the Horizon. The project is backed by Burn The Film and 4 A 4 Productions.
The story centers on three adolescents in a small Chinese town who plan to flee their home after becoming disillusioned with their surroundings. The film tracks their descent into violence during a sweltering summer day.
Production Timeline Overview
The following table outlines the current production status for these upcoming international features:
| Film Title | Director | Expected Production Window |
|---|---|---|
| Heavens Don’t Care | Kira Kovalenko | Autumn 2026 |
| Red Snow | Diao Yinan | Through October 2026 |
| A Distant House Smokes on the Horizon | Shengze Zhu | Summer 2026 |
These projects signify a continued investment in auteur-driven cinema, with production companies focusing on distinct regional stories. While these films remain in the early stages of production, their development highlights a trend of international co-productions.