SD International Film Festival celebrates the power of film

By Gina Yarbrough

San Diego, CA–The 22nd annual San Diego International Film Festival returns this month with a new theme, ‘Celebrating the Power of Film.’ 

The 5-day event will feature a lineup that includes 91 films total, 21 narrative competition films, 9 documentary competition films, and 61 short films.

The opening night film premiere and party will be held at The Museum of Photographic Arts in Balboa Park on October 18. The screenings will continue from October 19 through October 22 at the AMC14 at UTC Westfield in La Jolla. 

“This year, our slate has been curated from over 3,200 film submissions from 85 countries with compelling social impact films and Q&As including fighting political oppression, environmental sustainability, LGBTQAI+ rights, opioid crisis, and other topics affecting our world and our communities,” said Tonya Mantooth, CEO and artistic director of the San Diego International Film Festival.

The festival will present the world premiere of ‘Brothers After War’ following three brothers and their experiences in the military both while serving and navigating reintegration. The 12 main characters from the film and military dignitaries will be in attendance for the screening. Preceding the film will be a panel: “Brothers at War,” using film as a catalyst for healing.

Some of the highlights of the festival will include:

• Joey Travolta’s Inclusion Films screening of ‘Lights, Camera, Friendship! – Lodi’ follows 16 young adults on the autism spectrum including a panel discussion focused on inclusive hiring practices in the entertainment industry.

• In its second year, the Women’s Film Series and The Unstoppable Women’s Panel will discuss the diverse voices of women filmmakers who help shape their cultural landscape through the art of cinematic storytelling.
• The Jamul Indian Village, Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Nation, Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians, and Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians will bring a powerful Native American Film Track to this year’s film festival.

The Fest Pass Package includes all screenings on Thursday through Sunday as well as Culinary Cinema. Individual screening and event tickets to the signature events on a space-available basis. https://sdfilmfest.com/buy-passes/