October 18-22, 2023
San Diego International Film Festival
22 Years of Film, Conversation & Celebrations
Dear Fellow Film Lovers:
It feels like a very inspiring new year is upon us! I have to reflect on the transformational last few years for cinema and for film festivals as we’ve seen explosive growth for streaming platforms and unprecedented cable cutting. We’ve witnessed iconic film festivals pivot to virtual and theaters go dark.
In the past, the start of each year is brimmed with hope and anticipation.While the last 3 years might leave us with a little trepidation as we roll into 2023, I think we need to look at this year as a great opportunity to be together often and experience film the way it should be…on the big screen. For me, watching a film in a theater has always been magical. I’ve come to realize more than ever that it is a privilege to be fully present with other film goers and have that shared experience.
Film Festivals are a great way to unite a community and provide a platform for filmmakers and film goers to come together, learn from each other and celebrate film. While we live in divided times, film is one of the few mediums that allow us to walk in someone else’s shoes. What better way to break down prejudices than through cinema where we can experience how different people live, work and love. Only in the theater can you experience the catharsis that film brings, to collectively see that different perspective from your own and walk out of the dark a little bit transformed.
Consider this an invitation to join the San Diego Intl Film Festival this year as we bring the best in global independent film to the big screen October 18-23. Let’s ‘Celebrate The Power of Film’ together this year!
Tonya Mantooth
CEO/Artistic Director
San Diego International Film Festival
SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
OCT 18 - 22, 2023
From Opening Night to Night of the Stars Celebrity Tribute, Filmmaker Awards & Party, Culinary Cinema, Filmmaker Panels and over 100 Film Screenings, the San Diego International Film Festival is our region’s premier film event and one of the leading stops on the independent film festival circuit.
2023 Festival Premiere Events
San Diego International Film Festival
Oct 18-22, 2023
Red carpet, star-studded Night of the Stars Tribute Gala, Culinary Cinema, Filmmaker Awards Show and Party and in-person parties, panels and networking events. Film Lovers will enjoy Features, Documentaries and Short Films representing the very best in cinematic storytelling, with specially curated tracks such as the Women in Film, Military films, Native American Experience, and more! Get the conversation started with compelling Social Impact Films and Panels showcasing Filmmakers from around the world.
OUR CLAIM TO FAME
The festival offers a wide range of films from creative narrative features to thought-provoking documentaries to engaging and enlightening short films. Through the years we have screened premiers that have garnered 33 Academy Awards and 94 Nominations!
Women in Film Series & Panel
In partnership with the Women’s Museum of California, the Festival gives voice to female filmmakers who help shape our cultural landscape. Following the screenings, the Unstoppable Women’s Panel digs deep into the Festival curated Women in Film Series.
OUR MISSION IN ACTION
In addition to the Studio Film Premieres, the Festival curates over 100 independent films from Filmmakers around the world on topics such as: Human Rights, Immigration, Environment, LGBTQAI+, Diversity & Inclusion, Military, American Indians, Women in Film, and San Diego’s BioTech and Life Sciences.