News Summary
The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) will celebrate its 10th anniversary with an extensive lineup of over 130 films. Kicking off with Gus Van Sant’s ‘Dead Man’s Wire’ and closing with Joachim Trier’s ‘Sentimental Value,’ the festival offers a diverse program including industry panels, special events, and a gala. Attendees are encouraged to support local businesses while enjoying this cultural celebration in Coronado.
Coronado, California will celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) from November 5-9, 2025. This year’s festival promises to deliver an extensive lineup of over 130 films, including narrative features, documentaries, and short films. Renowned director Gus Van Sant’s film, “Dead Man’s Wire,” will open the festivities on November 5, while Joachim Trier’s “Sentimental Value” will serve as the closing film on November 9.
The festival will kick off with a Leonard Maltin Industry Tribute Gala at the iconic Hotel del Coronado on opening night, setting the stage for its diverse and engaging program. Key spotlight films this year include “American Solitaire,” “Arco,” “Jay Kelly,” “The Choral,” “The Secret Agent,” and “Train Dreams.” In addition to the films, CIFF will feature special events such as the Culinary Cinema series and a celebration of The Beatles with the West Coast premiere of Paul McCartney’s documentary, “Tug of War.”
This year, CIFF is expanding its panels to include discussions on industry topics such as “State of the Industry,” “Women on the Move,” and “SAG-AFTRA & The Future of Film.” The festival will also showcase curated selections of short films that highlight emerging voices within the film community. This strategic programming aims to honor the golden age of cinema while fostering independent storytelling and building connections within the community.
Merridee Book, the CEO and Artistic Director of CIFF, emphasized the festival’s focus on resilience and a forward-looking approach in this year’s programming. The festival will be hosted at multiple venues, including the historic Hotel del Coronado, Village Theatre, Sacred Heart Community Center, and the Coronado Performing Arts Center.
On November 7, the festival will hold a Jury Awards ceremony to recognize outstanding works from independent and emerging filmmakers. This marks an important moment for filmmakers who continue to create innovative content despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. CIFF has gained recognition as a destination festival for emerging artists, screening several Oscar® and BAFTA-nominated works each year.
Furthermore, the festival aims to highlight local restaurants, cafés, and shops, transforming Coronado into a vibrant cultural hub. CIFF encourages attendees to support local businesses during these uncertain times, promoting safe health guidelines to ensure a smooth festival experience for everyone.
Festival tickets and programs can be conveniently accessed through CIFF’s official website, providing an easy way for film enthusiasts to plan their visit. As this milestone event approaches, the Coronado Island Film Festival stands poised to deliver an unforgettable celebration of film, talent, and community.
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Author: STAFF HERE CORONADO
The Coronado Staff Writer represents the experienced team at HERECoronado.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Coronado, 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 the Coronado Island Film Festival, productions at Lamb’s Players Theatre, community workshops at John D. Spreckels Center, and iconic celebrations at Hotel del Coronado. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Coronado Chamber of Commerce and Visit Coronado, plus leading businesses in hospitality, dining, and tourism that drive the local economy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERESanDiego.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, and HERELosAngeles.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Southern California's dynamic landscape.
