Thank you to MovieMaker Magazine for naming the Anchorage International Film Festival one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World!
The Silver Anniversary and 25th edition of AIFF will take place December 5th – 14th, 2025. Submissions open on April 28th, 2025 via Filmfreeway.com Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for all the latest info and updates and we’ll see you in December!
Celebrating 25 years, the Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF) returns December 5 – 14, 2025, for ten unforgettable days of bold, independent cinema set against the stunning backdrop of Denai’na land. With screenings across four Anchorage venues—including the iconic Bear Tooth Theatrepub—and filmmaker-only excursions like glacier hikes and Northern Lights bonfires, AIFF offers more than just films; it’s a creative adventure built by and for filmmakers. From Sundance favorites to emerging Alaskan voices, we showcase fearless storytelling, meaningful connections, and unforgettable experiences that make AIFF the Icy Road to the Oscars. Films Worth Freezing For.
Join us in Anchorage this December.
Submissions Open April 28th on Filmfreeway.com!
The Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF) showcases bold, boundary-pushing films from around the world, inviting filmmakers and film lovers alike to celebrate the transformative power of independent cinema. Recognized globally as one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals,” AIFF brings a unique lineup to Anchorage, Alaska, with screenings, workshops, and events designed to inspire and connect the film community. Join us this year for an unforgettable experience that both entertains and empowers.
This dynamic category celebrates music documentaries that go beyond the beat to tell compelling stories about the artists, movements, and moments that shape our world. From intimate portraits of groundbreaking musicians to explorations of cultural shifts driven by sound, these films use the power of music to illuminate personal journeys, social change, and creative expression.
This compelling category showcases sports documentaries that explore the intersection of athleticism, identity, and perseverance. Highlighting powerful stories both on and off the field, these films delve into the personal struggles, social issues, and transformative impact of sports around the world. From grassroots movements to professional triumphs, this category honors storytelling that reveals the heart behind the game and the resilience of those who play it.
This innovative category spotlights short films—6 minutes or less—shot entirely on iPhones, celebrating creativity, resourcefulness, and bold storytelling on a budget. Open to all genres, these films prove that powerful narratives and striking visuals don’t require fancy equipment—just vision, heart, and a phone in your pocket. From emerging voices to seasoned creators experimenting with new tools, this category champions accessible filmmaking at its finest.
This category features both scripted and unscripted TV pilots that offer a glimpse into captivating worlds and original concepts destined for the small screen. From gripping dramas and sharp comedies to reality formats and docu-style series, these pilots showcase fresh voices and bold ideas ready for episodic storytelling. Whether fictional or real, each project represents a first step toward building a compelling series that leaves audiences wanting more.
The 2024 Anchorage International Film Festival brought an unforgettable season of storytelling, creativity, and community to Alaska last December. With over 100 films screened across multiple genres and formats—from thought-provoking documentaries to daring scripted features—AIFF once again cemented its place as a must-attend event for independent filmmakers and cinephiles alike.
This year’s festival spotlighted emerging voices, diverse perspectives, and stories that challenged, inspired, and entertained. Highlights included a dynamic opening night premiere, filmmaker Q&As, interactive workshops, and a curated selection of local Alaskan shorts that celebrated the richness of storytelling from the North.
AIFF 2024 also introduced two exciting new competition categories, drawing submissions from around the globe and further elevating the festival’s reputation for innovation and artistic risk-taking. Attendees from across the country and beyond gathered in Anchorage to experience films that pushed boundaries and sparked conversation—true to the festival’s mission of championing bold independent cinema.
As we look ahead to next year, AIFF remains committed to fostering a space where filmmakers and audiences converge to celebrate creativity, connection, and the power of film to make a difference.
Start your day with complimentary coffee and a bagel while diving into casual conversations about film. Join us from 9:00 to 9:45 AM before a full day of screenings from around the world. Open to all filmmakers and ticket holders for that day’s screenings, Coffee Talk is a perfect chance to meet local and visiting filmmakers and connect over a shared love of cinema.
First features are filled with passion, challenges, and the thrill of discovery. This panel brings together debut directors who dared to dive into filmmaking, sharing insights into their creative processes, struggles, and triumphs. Hear how they’ve shaped their visions into powerful first features and what advice they’d give to those taking their own first steps.
Indie film acting requires versatility, passion, and a deep connection to the story. In this panel, actors from independent and short films discuss the unique demands and creative freedom of working outside the mainstream. From developing characters with limited resources to collaborating closely with directors, actors reveal what makes indie acting both rewarding and challenging.
Non-fiction filmmaking is about more than just documenting facts; it’s about uncovering truth with authenticity and integrity. This panel features experienced documentarians sharing stories from behind the camera—navigating legalities, ethical dilemmas, and the responsibility of representing real lives. Gain insights into the commitment it takes to bring the real world to the screen in impactful ways.
Music breathes life into film, enhancing emotion and setting tone. This panel explores how filmmakers can navigate music licensing, build partnerships with artists, and curate soundtracks that resonate. Featuring music supervisors, filmmakers, and indie musicians, this discussion dives into the art and logistics of integrating powerful music into cinematic storytelling.
Adventure and exploration filmmaking pushes the boundaries of both physical and storytelling endurance. Join explorers and filmmakers as they share their journeys of documenting the untamed parts of our world, often under extreme conditions. Discover the art, risks, and rewards of capturing humanity’s quest to explore, from remote landscapes to thrilling expeditions.
Welcome to the Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF), Alaska’s premier showcase for bold, independent filmmaking from around the world. Now in its 24th year, AIFF presents a carefully curated lineup of over 100 films that captivate, challenge, and inspire. Behind the scenes, a team of seasoned industry professionals and passionate storytellers drives our mission. With backgrounds in documentary and independent film, non-profit development, and festival operations, our team members bring decades of experience, an unwavering dedication to authentic storytelling, and a deep commitment to community engagement. Together, they have positioned AIFF as a creative hub and cultural destination, where audiences experience “Films Worth Freezing For” and encounter unique voices and compelling narratives on the “Icy Road to the Oscars.” Join us in Anchorage to celebrate the power of independent film in a setting like no other.
The Anchorage International Film Festival takes place on the traditional homeland of the Eklutna Dena’ina. Anchorage is home to the K’enaht’ana, the Indigenous people of Nuti (Knik Arm), who today are members of the Eklutna (Eydlughet) and Knik (K’enakatnu) tribes. The K’enaht’ana have lived on the lands and waters here for thousands of years, long before Anchorage was “founded” and developed by visitors from elsewhere.
We are grateful to live, gather and celebrate in this beautiful land, and we are committed to honor the history and traditions of the Indigenous people of Alaska.
To avoid long waits at the venue Box Office, when possible, please purchase your tickets online through our website.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes before the film start time.
Please use the 7th Ave Entrance only
There is a loading zone for Drop Off and Pick Up in front of the entrance.
There is a paid Parking Garage under the museum.
Meter parking on the street is free after 6pm and on the weekends.
