
OCTOBER 18-22, 2023
SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
22 YEARS OF FILM, CONVERSATION & CELEBRATIONS
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.
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.
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. 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
PREMIERE EVENTS

WED. OCT 18
Opening Night Film Premiere & Reception
The Museum of Photographic Arts, Balboa Park
Pre-Reception and Screening
Kick off the 22nd 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.’ Guests will enjoy a Pre-screening Cocktail Party followed by a Studio Film Premiere and post reception.

THURS. OCT 19
Night of the Stars Tribute
The Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center, La Jolla
Red Carpet and Pre-Reception
Join us for a magical evening as the Festival honors some of the film industry’s most accomplished actors, directors and filmmakers. Each year we are proud to present the Gregory Peck Award of Excellence in Cinema with the support of the Peck family. Rising stars, auteurs, and visionaries are also recognized and celebrated.

SUN. OCT 22
Culinary Cinema
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC (formerly Arclight)
Culinary Cinema is the perfect recipe for Sunday fun and a dream come true for foodies! The ingredients begin with a cuisine-themed movie. Afterwards everyone adjourns to enjoy dishes inspired by renowned San Diego Chefs. Add some nice wines and good conversation and you have a perfect Sunday afternoon!

FRI, SAT, SUN. – OCT 20-22
In-Person Screenings
AMC UTC 14 @ Westfield UTC (formerly Arclight)
Film lovers will enjoy film screenings of Studio Premieres and Independent Features, Documentaries and Short Films. In between film screenings, guests can visit the Festival Lounge for snacks, cocktails and conversations with other Film Lovers.