San Francisco International Film Festival 2025: Full Lineup

The San Francisco International Film Festival (SFFILM) returns for its 68th edition from April 17 to 27, 2025, showcasing over 150 films from more than 50 countries. Screenings will be held at various venues across San Francisco and the Bay Area, including the Castro Theatre, Roxie Theater, and Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive.

This year’s festival features a diverse lineup, including anticipated premieres, international selections, tributes to notable filmmakers, and a retrospective on horror classics. Attendees can expect a range of genres, from drama and horror to sci-fi and experimental cinema. Below is a breakdown of must-see films and key festival details.

Must-See Films at The San Francisco International Film Festival

Opening Night Film: Rebuilding

San Francisco Film Festival Opening Night — Photo via sffilm

Directed by Max Walker-Silverman, “Rebuilding” stars Josh O’Connor as a rancher coping with the aftermath of devastating wildfires. The film delves into themes of loss, resilience, and the journey toward healing. Its premiere at Sundance garnered significant attention for its poignant storytelling.

Showtime: 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: Drama
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

Tribute to Director Chris Columbus

The festival honors director Chris Columbus with screenings of his films “Rent” and “Nine Months.” Following the screenings, Columbus will participate in discussions about his career and filmmaking experiences. This tribute offers audiences insight into the work of the director known for films like “Mrs. Doubtfire” and “Home Alone.”

Showtime: April 26, 6:00 PM
Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA
Ticket & More Info: sffilm.org

Love, Brooklyn

Starring André Holland, “Love, Brooklyn” explores the intertwined lives of three Black protagonists in the New York City borough. The narrative delves into themes of identity, community, and personal growth. Its premiere at Sundance received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of urban life.

Showtime: April 19, 7:30 PM
Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA
Genre: Drama
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

Rains Over Babel

This surreal Colombian film presents a narrative where Satan presides over a nightclub, blending reality with dreamlike sequences. Known for its avant-garde storytelling, the film challenges conventional perceptions and offers a unique cinematic experience. Its Sundance premiere featured a memorable drag show in the theater aisles, adding to its unconventional appeal.

Showtime: April 26, 6:30 PM
Venue: Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Surreal Drama
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

The Dating Game

This documentary follows young men in China who hire a romance coach to transform their love lives. It offers an insightful look into modern relationships and the societal pressures faced by individuals seeking companionship. The film provides a nuanced perspective on the complexities of dating in contemporary Chinese society.

Showtime: April 18, 8:30 PM
Venue: Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Documentary
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

Cloud

Directed by Kiyoshi Kurosawa, this Japanese psychological thriller was Japan’s official entry for the 2025 Oscars. This film weaves mystery and suspense into an engaging narrative that keeps viewers hooked.

Showtime: April 20, 8:30 PM
Venue: Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Thriller
Website: sffilm.org

Must-See Films

The Dutchman

Starring André Holland, “The Dutchman” delves into complex social dynamics and personal relationships. The film’s narrative offers a profound exploration of identity and societal expectations. Holland’s performance has been praised for its depth and authenticity.

Showtime: April 20, 5:45 PM
Venue: Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Drama
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

40 Acres

Directed by R.T. Thorne, “40 Acres” is a post-apocalyptic thriller that marks Thorne’s feature directorial debut. The film presents a gripping narrative set in a dystopian future, exploring themes of survival and humanity. Thorne’s background in music videos and television brings a unique visual style to the film.

Showtime: April 23, 8:45 PM
Venue: Premier Theater at One Letterman, 1 Letterman Dr # B, San Francisco, CA
Genre: Thriller
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

Horror Retrospective

This year’s festival includes a horror retrospective featuring classic films that have left a significant mark on the genre.

The Fog

Directed by John Carpenter, “The Fog” (1980) is a supernatural horror film where a coastal town is enveloped by a mysterious fog harboring vengeful spirits. The film is renowned for its atmospheric tension and has become a cult classic. Its inclusion in the festival offers audiences a chance to revisit this seminal work on the big screen outdoors for free.

Showtime: April 25, 8:00 PM
Venue: The Presidio Civil War Parade Ground, Graham St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Horror
More Info & RSVP: sffilm.org

They Live (1988)

A satirical science fiction film directed by John Carpenter, exploring themes of media control and consumerism. The film follows a drifter who discovers special sunglasses that reveal the hidden messages controlling society. Known for its political undertones and cult status, “They Live” remains relevant today.

Showtime: April 19, 8:45 PM
Venue: Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Science Fiction/Horror
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

The Babadook (2014)

An Australian psychological horror film directed by Jennifer Kent, focusing on a mother and son tormented by a mysterious entity. The film explores grief and trauma through its eerie storytelling. Its psychological depth and suspenseful atmosphere make it a standout in modern horror.

Showtime: April 22, 8:30 PM
Venue: Presidio Theatre, 2340 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Psychological Horror
Ticket & More Info: sffilm.org

Carnival of Souls (1962)

1962 film Carnival of Souls - San Francisco Film Festival — *Photo via Medium*

Directed by Herk Harvey, this film follows a woman who becomes drawn to a mysterious abandoned carnival after a traumatic accident. The film is known for its eerie atmosphere and dreamlike visuals. It has since gained recognition as an influential cult horror film.

Showtime: April 26, 9:30 PM
Venue: Marina Theatre, 2149 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Horror
Ticket & More Info: sffilm.org

The Texas Chain Saw Massacre (1974)

Tobe Hooper’s seminal horror film depicting a group of friends who encounter a family of cannibals in rural Texas. Its raw intensity and innovative direction revolutionized the horror genre. The film remains one of the most influential horror movies of all time.

Showtime: April 21, 9:15 PM
Venue: Presidio Theatre, 2340 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Horror
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

Chain Reactions

A documentary exploring the cultural impact and legacy of “The Texas Chain Saw Massacre.” The film examines how it changed horror cinema and influenced countless filmmakers. Featuring interviews with directors, actors, and historians, “Chain Reactions” offers a deep dive into horror history.

Showtime: April 21, 6:30 PM
Venue: Presidio Theatre, 2340 Chestnut St., San Francisco, CA
Genre: Documentary
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

Closing Night Film: Outerlands

Outerlands festival closing film - San Francisco Film Festival — *Photo via Press Bee*

Elena Oxman’s “Outerlands” follows Cass, portrayed by Asia Kate Dillon, a recent transplant to San Francisco’s Outer Sunset district. Cass becomes the unexpected caretaker of an 11-year-old girl, leading to a nuanced exploration of connection and responsibility. The film was shot on location in San Francisco’s Outer Sunset and Richmond neighborhoods.

Showtime: 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: Drama
Tickets & More Info: sffilm.org

The San Francisco International Film Festival 2025 offers a diverse lineup of films that cater to all kinds of moviegoers. Whether you enjoy dramas, thrillers, or classic horror, the festival presents a well-curated selection worth experiencing. Beyond the screenings, it’s an opportunity to connect with filmmakers and other film enthusiasts. Download the festival program here. In the meantime, take a look at what other events are happening this week before the San Francisco Film Festival kicks off.

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