2025 SFFILM Festival: Everything You Need to Know
The San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM) returns for its 68th edition from April 17 to 27, 2025. As the longest-running film festival in the Americas, SFFILM showcases films from across the world while celebrating the work of emerging and established filmmakers. With screenings, panels, and special tributes, the festival offers an opportunity for audiences to engage with cinema in new ways.
This year, the program features over 150 films from more than 50 countries, including 11 world premieres. Screenings will take place at multiple venues in San Francisco and Berkeley. Here’s your guide to everything you need to know about the 2025 SFFILM Festival.
What to Expect at The 68th San Francisco Film Festival
Festival Overview
The 2025 SFFILM Festival presents a diverse selection of films spanning different genres and cultures. The lineup includes world premieres, critically acclaimed international titles, and independent features. In addition to screenings, attendees can expect discussions, workshops, and special events featuring filmmakers and industry professionals.
- Dates: April 17–27, 2025
- Number of Films: Over 150
- Participating Countries: More than 50
- World Premieres: 11
- Venues: Multiple locations in San Francisco and Berkeley
- Official Website: sffilm.org
Opening Night: Rebuilding
Opening the festival is “Rebuilding,” a drama directed by Max Walker-Silverman. The film follows a cowboy, played by Josh O’Connor, who must start anew after wildfires devastate his ranch. Themes of resilience and community support run through this character-driven story.
- Showtime:Â April 27, 7:00 PM at Premier Theater; April 27, 8:00 PM at Marina Theatre
- Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA (7PM), Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA (8PM)
- Genre:Â Drama
- Tickets:Â sffilm.org
Tribute to Chris Columbus
SFFILM honors director Chris Columbus, known for “Mrs. Doubtfire,” “Home Alone,” and the first two “Harry Potter” films. This tribute will include a conversation about his career and screening of “Rent” and “Nine Months“. Columbus will share insights into his creative process and experiences in the film industry.
- Event: Career Tribute to Chris Columbus
- Films Screened: “Rent” and “Nine Months”
- Showtime:Â April 24, 5:30 pm (Nine Months)and April 26, 6:00 PM (Rent)
- Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA
- Tickets for Rent:Â sffilm.org
- Tickets for Nine Months: sffilm.org
Centerpiece Presentation: Love, Brooklyn
Love, Brooklyn, directed by Rachael Abigail Holder, serves as the festival’s centerpiece presentation. Starring André Holland, the film explores personal growth and complicated relationships in an urban setting. The screening will include a Q&A with the director and lead actors.
- Showtime:Â April 19, 7:30 PM
- Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr. # B, San Francisco, CA
- Genre:Â Drama
- Tickets & More Info:Â sffilm.org
Closing Night: Outerlands
The festival concludes with “Outerlands,” a drama directed by Elena Oxman and set in San Francisco’s Outer Sunset and Richmond neighborhoods. The film follows Cass, played by Asia Kate Dillon, who unexpectedly becomes the caretaker of an 11-year-old girl. This story of mutual growth and unexpected connections wraps up the festival’s programming.
- Showtime:Â April 27, 5:00 PM at Premier Theater; April 27, 6:00 PM at Marina Theatre
- Venues: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA (5PM), Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA (6PM)
- Genre:Â Drama
- Tickets & More Info:Â sffilm.org
Special Events and Awards
The festival includes a tribute to actor André Holland, featuring screenings of “Love, Brooklyn” and “The Dutchman.” Additionally, the Roxie Theater receives the Mel Novikoff Award, which honors contributions to film exhibition. A special 75th-anniversary screening of Akira Kurosawa’s “Rashomon” will be held in recognition of this honor.
- André Holland Tribute: Includes film screenings and discussions
Date and Time: April 19, 7:30 PM
Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA
Tickets & More Info:Â sffilm.org - Mel Novikoff Award and Special Screening: Honoring the Roxie Theater
- Screening of Rashomon: Roxie Theater, 3117 16th St, San Francisco, CA 94103
- Date and Time: April 23, 7:00 PM
- Tickets: sffilm.org
Ticket Information
Tickets for individual screenings and events are available online. Pricing varies based on attendee category, with discounts available for students, seniors, and members. Early booking is recommended, as popular events tend to sell out quickly.
- General Admission: $20
- Student/Senior/ADA: $19
- SFFILM Member: $16
- Children (14 and under): $11 (select programs only)
- Purchase your tickets here
Festival Tips
To make the most of your SFFILM 2025 experience, consider the following suggestions:
- Plan Ahead: Review the festival schedule and select the films and events you wish to attend. Popular screenings may sell out quickly, so purchasing tickets in advance is advisable.
- Explore Venues: Familiarize yourself with the various festival venues across San Francisco and the Bay Area. Each location offers a unique atmosphere, enhancing your overall viewing experience.
- Engage with Filmmakers: Attend Q&A sessions and panel discussions to gain insights into the creative processes behind the films. These interactions provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the works presented.
- Stay Informed: Follow SFFILM’s official website and social media for updates, venue changes, and any added screenings. Staying updated ensures you don’t miss last-minute opportunities.
The 2025 San Francisco International Film Festival brings together a wide range of cinematic voices, highlighting both emerging and established talent. With a lineup that includes world premieres, special tributes, and community discussions, the festival provides a meaningful space for film lovers. Attendees can expect engaging programming across multiple venues, creating opportunities to connect with storytellers from around the world. Whether watching an independent film or attending a panel, there are many ways to engage with this year’s festival.
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