For those who can imagine nothing better than a weekend of movies and popcorn – this is the event you’ve been waiting for! The Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) is kicking off this week on Thursday, September 28th, and to say we’re excited is an understatement.
VIFF is one of the most anticipated celebrations of film and cinema culture in Western Canada. This year saw over 4,000 submissions by filmmakers from around the world across a plethora of genres and storytelling styles.
Here’s the rundown on what to expect
This Thursday, the Vancouver International Film Festival kicks off for 2 weeks of movie-loving madness. There will be World and North American premieres, along with a large showcase of cinema by Canadian and Indigenous creators. Expect a range of genres, from comedies, drama, and documentaries to award-winning films from top international film festivals.
Of course, it wouldn’t be VIFF without a nod to some considerable local talent. The BC Spotlight features a tour-de-force from local BC filmmakers with shorts and full-feature films, some of which are filmed right here in BC!
In addition to screenings of over 138 feature films and 93 short films, VIFF attendees can also look forward to VIFF Live. This event returns for another year with a series of live performances that aim to push the boundaries of traditional film festival programming. Explore the intersection of cinema culture with music, comedy, podcasting, and performance with unique live shows.
But wait, there’s more!
Festival goers should also look out for Signals, an interactive exhibition of 35 works that showcase the future of storytelling. Discover the inspiring (not spooky) side of AI and bio wearables, and learn about a visionary program that celebrates Indigenous resilience and wisdom. There will also be exclusive premieres of video games from local BC studios to get excited about.
If you’re a budding cinephile who’s curious about getting into the industry, then VIFF Industry Days are a must. Engage with film and television professionals to chat, network, and celebrate the film culture of Western Canada. These industry conferences and creator-focussed programs are meant to encourage the next generation of artists. If you’re already in the industry, then be sure to get your Industry Pass for VIFF!
Last but certainly not least, don’t miss out on the opportunity to hear it straight from the horse’s mouth with VIFF Talks! Learn from some of the world’s leading creators as they share their passion and expertise on the craft.
If that all sounds like a great time to you, it gets better!
If you decide to make a weekend out of it (and with so many amazing films to see, you really should), then there’s a special promo happening for VIFF goers. Get 4 free VIFF tickets when you book a night’s stay through Stay Vancouver Hotels. Indulge in a little film fest binge and enjoy a stay in one of Canada’s most beautiful cities.
Check out the link below to get your tickets!
VANCOUVER INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
When: Thursday, September 28 to Sunday, October 8
Where: 10 screens in 7 venues across Vancouver
Cost: $18 for Adult tickets
Alicia Lyons
Branded Content Writer
Alicia is a storyteller who chased the sun all the way to Calgary and decided to stay. When she’s not crafting killer content, she can be found stumbling along nature trails, curling under a fuzzy blanket with a good book, or finding any excuse to eat.
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