News Summary
The San Diego International Film Festival (SDIFF) will feature an impressive lineup of 108 films from 29 countries in its 24th edition. It includes record-breaking submissions, world premieres, and notable gala highlights. Key events like the opening night with ‘After the Hunt’ and the ‘Night of the Stars Tribute’ will celebrate independent storytelling and cinematic excellence. The festival will also introduce unique experiences such as Culinary Cinema, offering a blend of film and gourmet dining. Individual tickets start at $20, with VIP packages available.
San Diego – The San Diego International Film Festival (SDIFF) is set to take place from October 15 to October 19, 2025, marking its 24th edition. This year, the festival showcases an impressive lineup of 108 films, including 24 world premieres and notable gala films.
In a record-breaking year for submissions, the festival received an astounding 3,500 entries, further cementing its reputation as a key player in the independent film industry. The selected films encompass various categories such as Gala, Narrative, Documentary, Spotlight, and Short Selections.
The opening night will feature the highly anticipated film “After the Hunt,” directed by Luca Guadagnino and starring Julia Roberts, Ayo Edebiri, and Andrew Garfield. Other highlighted films include “Hamnet,” directed by Chloé Zhao and featuring Jessie Buckley and Paul Mescal, as well as “Rental Family,” directed by Hikari and starring Brendan Fraser. Additional notable films in the lineup include “Omaha,” directed by Cole Webley, and “Silent Rebellion,” directed by Marie-Elsa Sgualdo.
The festival will commence with its opening night premiere and celebratory party at The Lot in La Jolla. A key event within the festival is the Night of the Stars Tribute, scheduled for October 16 at the Conrad Prebys Performing Arts Center in La Jolla. During this tribute, the prestigious Gregory Peck Award for Excellence in Cinema will be awarded, with past honorees including acclaimed actors Laurence Fishburne and Annette Bening.
One of the festival’s unique events is the Culinary Cinema, taking place on October 19. This event will feature the film “The Chef & The Daruma,” paired with a gourmet buffet, offering attendees a taste of cinema alongside culinary delights.
Most of the film screenings will occur at the AMC 14 theater, where audiences can catch the diverse array of films. The festival’s dedication to showcasing international talent is reflected in its lineup, which includes films from 29 countries. Some notable entries among the films include:
- “100 Liters of Gold,” directed by Teemu Nikki (Finland, Italy, USA premiere)
- “Case 137,” directed by Dominik Moll (France, North American premiere)
- “Fantasy Life,” directed by Matthew Shear (USA, San Diego premiere)
- “Magic Hour,” directed by Jacqueline Christy (USA, San Diego premiere)
- “Lost in Territories,” directed by Nadav Shlomo Giladi (France, Israel, Germany, Italy, world premiere)
- Among numerous others highlighting the festival’s commitment to independent storytelling.
Individual screening tickets for the festival are available starting at $20, with a VIP Pass Package also offered at $575. This year, the festival has collaborated with the House of Pacific Relations to celebrate and showcase 35 cultures in San Diego’s Balboa Park.
In its effort to foster a fulfilling cultural experience, the San Diego International Film Festival aims to provide a platform for independent storytellers while facilitating conversations that resonate with diverse audiences. With its rich selection of films and events, SDIFF 2025 promises to be a treat for cinema lovers.
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Additional Resources
- 10 News: San Diego International Film Festival Unveils 2025 Main Slate
- Wikipedia: San Diego International Film Festival
- Variety: San Diego Film Festival – After the Hunt
- Google Search: San Diego International Film Festival
- Times of San Diego: San Diego International Film Festival Announces 2025 Lineup
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Film Festival
Author: STAFF HERE SAN DIEGO WRITER
SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER The SAN DIEGO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanDiego.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Diego, San Diego County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Comic-Con International, San Diego County Fair, and San Diego Pride Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Diego County, plus leading businesses in biotechnology, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Qualcomm, Illumina, and Scripps Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECostaMesa.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
