If you’re a movie lover, The Santa Fe International Film Festival (SFiFF) is the premiere forum for international and independent cinema in northern New Mexico. Taking place over five days and nights in October, and focusing on artistic excellence, SFiFF has presented films ranging from Academy Award winners to undiscovered indie gems. This year, the festival dates are October 18 – 22, 2023, 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Founded in 2009, SFiFF has grown from humble beginnings to become one of the top annual events in New Mexico, effectively extending the tourism season in Santa Fe. Now known as one of the largest events of its kind, SFiFF was named one of Moviemaker Magazine’s 25 Coolest General Film Festivals on the planet in 2013, and again as one of the 50 Festivals Worth the Entry Fee in 2019.
More than just a yearly festival, SFiFF serves as a creative center for film year-round, providing professional opportunities for artists, and unmatched audience participation, in the world’s greatest little film city. This is why the festival has been recognized by IndieWire Magazine as “a young Sundance, and “an all-inclusive resort for cinephiles” by Filmmaker Magazine.
With five days and nights of premiere film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, award presentations, industry discussions, and nightly parties, SFiFF continues to bring world-class cinema and unparalleled independent filmmaking opportunities to various venues throughout downtown Santa Fe, including theaters, restaurants, and art galleries.
One thing Santa Fe is known for is its beautiful theaters, and those are given the spotlight during SFiFF, with screenings taking place all week at The Lensic Performing Arts Center, the Center for Contemporary Arts, The Screen, the Violet Crown Cinema and George R.R. Martin’ Jean Cocteau Cinema.
Since its inception, SFiFF has hosted a wide range of entertainers. Among them are Oliver Stone, Gena Rowlands, Robert Redford, Ethan Hawke, Shirley MacLaine, John Waters, Judy Blume, Rudolfo Anaya, N. Scott Momaday, Bill Plympton, Russell Means, Wes Studi, Melissa Barrera, Jane Seymour, Jay Roach, Ali MacGraw, John Sayles, Jacqueline Bisset, and Tantoo Cardinal.
The independent film industry is alive and well, post pandemic, but don’t take our word for it. See for yourself why Pastatiempo Magazine calls the Santa Fe International Film Festival, “New Mexico’s foremost attraction for cinephiles.” For more information, visit the website, or call 505-397-0371.
This article was posted by Olivia
