Celebrating the Power of Film
23 YEARS OF FILM, CONVERSATION & CELEBRATIONS
Save the Date October 15-19, 2025!
Film Lovers and Filmmakers from around the world will come together to celebrate the art of cinematic storytelling.
The 5-day festival will feature Red Carpet events, including the Opening Night Film Premiere and Reception at the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park and the Night of the Stars Tribute at the Conrad in La Jolla. Enjoy Studio and Independent Features, Documentary and Short Film screenings along with Filmmaker Q&As and Panels at AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC. Attendees can also look forward the ‘always sold out’ Culinary Cinema as well as the Fest Lounge, VIP exclusives, parties, food, drinks and networking events!
Celebrate The Power of Film on the big screen and engage in conversation and celebrations!
PREMIERE EVENTS
Opening Night Film Premiere & Reception — October 15, 2025
Balboa Park
Kick off the 23rd Annual San Diego International Film Festival at the Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park. Film lovers, filmmakers, arts patrons, elected officials, and business professionals will gather to ‘Celebrate the Power of Film’ with a Red Carpet experience. Guests will enjoy a Pre-screening Cocktail Party followed by a Studio Film Premiere and Post-reception.
Night of the Stars Tribute – Thursday, Oct. 17, 2024
La Jolla
It’s the Festival’s most glamorous evening when Hollywood’s finest walk the Red Carpet in La Jolla! Enjoy the Festival’s awards show including presentation of the Gregory Peck Excellence in Film Award. Recent honorees include Laurence Fishburne, Annette Bening, Andy Garcia, Kate Beckinsale, Adrian Brody, Heather Graham and more.
Who will be the 2024 Honorees? Join us to find out!
Culinary Cinema — Sunday, Oct. 19, 2025
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC
Culinary Cinema is the perfect recipe for Sunday fun and a dream come true for foodies! Hosted by Shawn Styles from CBS8’s ‘Cooking with Styles’, the ingredients begin with an extravagant nosh at the Capital One Cafe, followed by a cuisine-themed film. Afterwards, enjoy bites and pairings inspired by renowned San Diego Chefs. Add some nice wines and good conversation with fellow film lovers, and you have a perfect Sunday afternoon!
Independent Social Impact Films & Studio Premieres — Friday-Sunday, Oct. 15-19, 2025
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC
Choices. Choices. Choices. Which films will you choose?
Film lovers will enjoy film screenings of Studio Premieres and Independent Social Impact Features, Documentaries and Short Films from Filmmakers around the world. Don’t miss Panels and Filmmaker Q&As for the best Festival Experience!
Party with a Purpose
Immerse yourself in engaging discussions about the films you’ve watched that day, while enjoying delicious appetizers and cocktails. Join us for a night of fun and festivities, and learn more about our social justice film initiatives that use documentary films to share impactful stories and create positive change in the world. Let’s raise a glass to change!
The Fest Lounge — Friday-Sunday, Oct. 15-19, 2025
Access to The Fest Lounge is included in VIP and Fest Pass Packages. Or, you can purchase a Fest Lounge to access all panels with Filmmakers and industry influentials, indulge in complimentary beverages and bites, and engage in lively conversations with fellow festival-goers between screenings and events.
The Fest Lounge is conveniently situated at the entrance of the AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC!