Founded in 2001, the San Diego International Film Festival, produced by the San Diego Film Foundation, is the region's premier showcase for outstanding U.S. and international independent filmmaking. SDiFF offers a totally unique experience to catch first time and veteran filmmakers as they debut their latest work to command the attention of new audiences and industry luminaries. Annually, SDiFF receives over 2,000 films from over 65 countries. Around 100+ films are specially curated for a showcase of the best studio and independent features, documentaries, and shorts in the region. Throughout the year, immerse yourself with quality films, exclusive parties, red carpets, and insider panels! 

Preview Awards Season Contenders

Be among the first to see major studio premieres on the road to Hollywood awards season. In recent years, SDiFF has premiered award winning films such as Lion, Hell or High Water, Denial, Silver Linings Playbook, 12 Years a Slave, The Imitation Game, Room, and Whiplash. Want to see what films will make it to the Oscars, Golden Globes, or SAG Awards? SDiFF has been a trailblazer for award-winning films.  

Get the VIP Treatment with Exclusive Parties and Red Carpets 

Throughout the year, SDiFF hosts exclusive parties that you can't miss! Be part of the scene at events such our annual Awards Viewing Party in February, Film Insider Screening Series (Feb-July), and much more! At the Festival you can enjoy the Opening Night Film and Party, Night of the Stars Tribute, Party with a Purpose, and other events with fellow film lovers.

Get a Behing-the-Scenes Look at the Entertainment Industry 

Starting in February, SDiFF hosts a monthly Film Insider Screening Series! Come witness the Q&A panels where filmmakers, industry insiders, and actors will inspire, entertain, educate, and stimulate conversation among film aficionados. 2016 screenings were critically acclaimed films such as Captain Fantastic, Hell or High Water, and Crossing Bhutan.

Giving Back with the San Diego Film Foundation

The San Diego Film Foundation has made education a key component of SDiFF. In 2008, a year-round student educational program called FOCUS was launched to help engage students and schools with dynamic film programs, teacher training, and in-school workshops with artists, as well as collaborative residencies. At last year’s festival, 831 students and 56 teachers from 25 San Diego County Schools participated in two day long events about filmmaking, digital media and careers in the entertainment industry.