The Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF), held annually in Vancouver, British Columbia, stands as one of North America’s premier film festivals, showcasing a vibrant array of international and Canadian cinema. Operated by the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society, a non-profit and federally registered charitable organization, VIFF has been a cornerstone of cultural celebration since its relaunch in 1982. Taking place over two weeks from October 2 to October 12, 2025, the festival transforms Vancouver into a global hub for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles.
A legacy of cinematic excellence
First launched in 1958, VIFF faced financial and organizational challenges in the late 1960s, leading to a hiatus after 1969. It was revitalized in 1982 under the leadership of Leonard Schein and has since grown into one of the five largest film festivals in North America. In 2016, VIFF attracted 133,000 attendees and screened 324 films from approximately 73 countries across 10 screens, underscoring its scale and global reach. The festival is headquartered at the VIFF Centre, located at 1181 Seymour Street, which also hosts year-round programming at the Vancity Theatre and Lochmaddy Studio Theatre.
VIFF’s programming is built on three core pillars: East Asian film, Canadian film, and nonfiction films. It boasts one of the largest selections of Asian-produced films outside Asia and a significant collection of Canadian-made productions. The festival embraces a wide range of genres, from narrative features to documentaries, shorts, and experimental works, ensuring a diverse and inclusive cinematic experience.
VIFF 2025: what to expect
The 44th edition of VIFF is expected to feature approximately 130 feature films and 100 shorts, drawn from filmmakers worldwide, alongside talks, conferences, live performances, and unique events that celebrate film culture. The 2024 edition screened films from 70 countries, including 30 world premieres, 10 international premieres, 42 North American premieres, and 49 Canadian premieres, setting a high bar for 2025.
This year’s festival is likely to highlight selections from South America, a continued focus on documentary and nonfiction films, and a special showcase of Korean cinema. The opening night will feature a live-scored performance of Ari’s Theme, a documentary by local filmmakers Jeff Lee Petry and Nathan Drillot, accompanied by eight members of the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra. This presentation exemplifies VIFF’s commitment to blending cinema with live art forms.
VIFF’s competitive sections include awards such as the Best Canadian Film Award ($15,000), Best Canadian Documentary Award ($15,000), and the Vanguard Award ($5,000), recognizing outstanding contributions. The festival also prioritizes emerging talent through programs like the Catalyst mentorship initiative, which supports filmmakers in developing their projects.
Wildlife films at VIFF
VIFF has a strong tradition of showcasing environmental and wildlife-related films, particularly within its nonfiction and documentary categories, often under its “Environmental Films” section. This program highlights works that explore ecology, conservation, and human-nature interactions, resonating with audiences through compelling storytelling and visual beauty. These films align with VIFF’s mission to foster dialogue about global issues, including biodiversity and environmental sustainability.
Notable wildlife and environmental films screened at past VIFF editions include:
- Picture of His Life (2019, dir. Yonathan Nir and Dani Menkin): This documentary follows wildlife photographer Amos Nachoum as he embarks on a perilous expedition to capture images of Polar Bears underwater in the Canadian Arctic, exploring perseverance and the beauty of wildlife.
- The Wild (2019, dir. Mark Titus): This film examines the ecological impact of salmon farming in Bristol Bay, Alaska, highlighting the fight to protect wild salmon populations and their ecosystems, praised for its urgent call to action.
- Into the Jungle (2018, dir. Mark Hanlin): This documentary chronicles an Australian couple’s journey into Papua New Guinea’s jungle to study and protect endangered tree kangaroos, blending adventure with conservation.
These films, part of VIFF’s nonfiction programming, have captivated audiences with their vivid depictions of wildlife and ecosystems. While VIFF’s environmental section is a key component of its nonfiction offerings, with past festivals screening approximately 230 feature films from over 75 countries, wildlife-focused documentaries represent a notable but smaller subset within this broader category, alongside films addressing climate change and urban ecology. The festival’s open submission policy welcomes international documentaries, including those with wildlife themes, provided they meet eligibility criteria such as completion after June 1, 2024, and no prior screening in the Vancouver area. Non-English films require English subtitles, and submissions are processed through FilmFreeway.
Newfoundland films at VIFF
VIFF’s commitment to Canadian cinema, particularly through its Northern Lights (formerly True North) program, has provided a platform for films from Newfoundland and Labrador, showcasing the province’s unique storytelling and cultural perspectives. The festival prioritizes Canadian narrative and documentary films directed by Canadian citizens or permanent residents, with Canada listed as a country of production or with significant Canadian financing.
Notable films with Newfoundland connections screened at VIFF include:
- Maudie (2016, dir. Aisling Walsh): A Newfoundland-Ireland co-production, this biographical drama tells the story of Nova Scotia folk artist Maud Lewis, with its Newfoundland connection stemming primarily from production by Newfoundland-based companies like Screen Siren Pictures, rather than the film’s setting or story. Starring Sally Hawkins and Ethan Hawke, it was celebrated at VIFF 2016 for its portrayal of resilience and creativity.
- Away (2020, dir. Gints Zilbalodis): A Latvian-Canadian co-production involving Newfoundland-based animators, this animated feature follows a boy’s surreal journey through a dreamlike landscape. Screened at VIFF 2020, it was noted for its innovative animation and emotional depth.
- The Grand Seduction (2013, dir. Don McKellar): Set and filmed in Newfoundland’s Trinity Bay, this comedy follows a coastal town’s efforts to lure a doctor to secure a factory contract. Starring Brendan Gleeson and Taylor Kitsch, it was a crowd-pleaser at VIFF 2013, highlighting Newfoundland’s charm and humor.
These films reflect Newfoundland’s growing presence in Canadian cinema, with VIFF amplifying regional stories to international audiences. The festival’s focus on regional premieres ensures Newfoundland filmmakers have opportunities to present their work, often accompanied by Q&A sessions.
Venues and accessibility
VIFF screenings take place across multiple venues, including the VIFF Centre, Vancouver Playhouse, International Village, and the Rio Theatre. The VIFF Centre, recently upgraded with new surround sound and a 4K laser projector, serves as the festival’s hub and a year-round destination for curated cinema.
Ticket prices typically range from $14 to $19 for regular screenings, with ticket packs and festival passes offering cost-effective options. The Platinum Pass provides priority access and reserved seating. VIFF demonstrates inclusivity by offering complimentary admission to Indigenous peoples, recognizing their cultural heritage, and providing Community Access tickets to organizations supporting those facing barriers to attendance.
Beyond the screen
VIFF is a cultural platform fostering dialogue and creativity. It hosts talks, workshops, and Q&A sessions with filmmakers and industry professionals, offering learning and networking opportunities. Programs like VIFF Live integrate live music, comedy, and performance with cinema, while the Signals exhibition explores new storytelling technologies. For wildlife and Newfoundland filmmakers, these platforms facilitate discussions on environmental and cultural issues.
The festival’s year-round programming at the VIFF Centre ensures Vancouver remains a cinematic hub beyond the festival dates, with recent screenings including films like Moonlight, Lady Bird, and a Jeff Buckley documentary.
Submission and participation
VIFF welcomes submissions for its 2025 edition, accepting feature films (over 26 minutes) and shorts (under 25 minutes) completed after June 1, 2024. Films must not have been screened commercially or broadcast in the Vancouver area, with priority given to regional, national, or international premieres. Non-English films require English subtitles, and submissions are processed through FilmFreeway. Awards like the Best BC Film Award ($10,000 plus $15,000 in post-production services) incentivize submissions, including those with wildlife or Newfoundland themes.
A community-driven festival
VIFF’s success is fueled by by its community of filmmakers, volunteers, and audiences. It collaborates with partners like Creative BC, the Directors Guild of Canada, and the Lochmaddy Foundation. Volunteers are integral, with opportunities available for 2025.
Why VIFF matters
Recognized by MovieMaker as one of the “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” in 2025, VIFF stands out for its diverse, innovative, and thought-provoking cinema. It amplifies underrepresented voices, fosters cross-cultural dialogue, and celebrates storytelling. For wildlife filmmakers, VIFF showcases documentaries like Picture of His Life, The Wild, and Into the Jungle, inspiring environmental awareness. For Newfoundland filmmakers, films like Maudie, Away, and The Grand Seduction connect regional stories to global audiences. Whether you’re a filmmaker, a cinephile, or a community member, VIFF offers an unparalleled experience.
For updates, including the full 2025 program announcement on August 27, visit viff.org or subscribe to VIFF News. Ticket packs, passes, and VIFF+ memberships are available now.
