About SFFILM
WE SHOW WHAT FILM CAN DO
Sometimes it is hard to believe we’ve been at this for nearly 70 years! SFFILM is the hub of a vibrant Bay Area film culture connecting singular filmmakers with passionate audiences, teaching kids about the world through film, and helping independent filmmakers get their stories to the big screen.
We’ve hosted the San Francisco International Film Festival since 1957, making it the longest running film festival in the Americas. Our film Programming team fills the year with a curated slate of screenings and exclusive events including our stellar fall documentary festival, Doc Stories because we’re better when we experience the power of film together.
Since 1991, SFFILM’s youth Education program is where the next generation of Bay Area film lovers and filmmakers get their start. Through hands-on workshops, camps, and special screenings, we’re giving kids the tools to think critically, be discerning, and craft their own stories.
Filmmakers need sustained support, mentorship, and professional resources. In 2008, we launched our Artist Development program which includes year-round grants, fellowships, and residencies that provide artists with essential support.
SFFILM invests in the entire cycle of the cinema experience. From world-class festivals to accessible education programs to grants for working filmmakers, we fuel every aspect of a thriving film culture.
Vision
Transforming the world through the creativity and inspiration of film.
Mission
SFFILM is a nonprofit organization whose mission ensures independent voices in film are welcomed, heard, and given the resources to thrive. SFFILM connects and inspires audiences, students and teachers, and filmmakers through our film exhibition, youth education, and artist development programs.
Our Impact
Doc Stories Announces 2025 Festival Lineup: Oscar Contenders ‘Cover-Up,’ ‘My Mom Jayne,’ ‘The Eyes Of Ghana’ & More – DEADLINE
Many of the year’s top Oscar-contending documentaries are set for exhibiti...
Many of the year’s top Oscar-contending documentaries are set for...
Many of the year’s top Oscar-contending documen...
Many of the year’s top Oscar-contendi...
SFFILM Hosts Youth Summer Camp – KRON 4
This summer, Bay Area teens are learning what it takes to make a movie. Th...
This summer, Bay Area teens are learning what it takes to make a ...
This summer, Bay Area teens are learning what i...
This summer, Bay Area teens are learn...
SFFILM Celebrates Scientific Excellence in Lee Isaac Chung’s TWISTERS with $20,000 Sloan Science in Cinema Prize
Cyprien Vial’s volcano thriller MAGMA will be honored with the $5,00...
Cyprien Vial’s volcano thriller MAGMA will be honored with ...
Cyprien Vial’s volcano thriller MAGMA wil...
Cyprien Vial’s volcano thriller...