Everything that Calgary film lovers can do at CIFF this month
The Calgary International Film Festival (CIFF) is preparing for a big 2025, and you’ll want to prepare your CIFF schedule accordingly.
Alberta’s largest film festival takes place from Thursday, Sept. 18, to Sunday, Sept. 28, with over 200 films from around the world to discover.
The 26th edition of CIFF is also packed with gala screenings, parties, and panels that film lovers won’t want to miss.
CIFF
“Every year we get so excited about the lineup and can’t wait for audiences to dig into all the gems we’ve found,” said Brenda Lieberman, CIFF’s lead programmer, in a release.
“We’re always looking for a unique mix from around the world, with something for everyone.”
“This year, we have a record number of world premieres, and we’ve also made sure to seek out some exciting family-friendly films. And of course, we always love celebrating all the hard work of our local filmmakers, with nine feature films in the Alberta Spotlight section this year.”
A highlight of CIFF every year is the Centrepiece Gala, which this year is the Alberta premiere of The Pitch by Michèle Hozer on Tuesday, Sept. 23, at The Grand.
The Canadian documentary takes viewers behind the scenes as Olympic soccer star Diana Matheson and fellow players work to build a professional women’s soccer league in Canada. Joining Matheson in attendance at CIFF on the red carpet is Olympic gold and bronze medallist Christine Sinclair.
The Pitch
Another highly anticipated event is the world premiere of Bif Naked, a raw and unfiltered documentary directed by Pollyanna Hardwicke-Brown, featuring the Canadian music icon.
Bif Naked and guitarist Peter Karroll will also play an acoustic set and answer audience questions after the screening on Thursday, Sept. 18. That same night, head to Contemporary Calgary Grotto after Day One film screenings for an after-party with music, drinks and fun.
Joining Bif Naked as Day One films are The Mastermind, Mirrors No. 3, and Zodiac Killer Project.
Bif Naked
CIFF is drawing some huge names this year, including screenwriter, director, producer, and Oscar winner Charlie Kaufman. The writer of Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind and Adaptation is the keynote speaker for the festival’s industry week on Sunday, Sept. 21, and will be joined by writer Eva H.D.
Professionals and students come together each year for Industry Week’s panels, networking, screenings, and workshops.
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“We are beyond thrilled to welcome Charlie Kaufman and Eva H.D. to CIFF Industry Week 2025,” said Celina Vides, CIFF’s industry specialist and programmer, in a statement.
“His work continues to challenge convention and inspire a generation of storytellers. At a time when authenticity is more important than ever, Charlie’s perspective is both vital and timely.”
And those looking to have some family-friendly fun are invited to CIFF’s free outdoor screenings of Big Hero 6 and Clueless on Saturday, Sept. 20.
There will even be live music and a few surprises during the screenings at Kensington Plaza.
Check out the full CIFF 2025 schedule online.
Calgary International Film Festival 2025
When: Thursday, Sept. 18 to Sunday, Sept. 28, 2025
Time: Various times
Where: Various locations
Tickets: Various prices, including ticket bundles available. Purchase online.
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