The Edmonton International Film Festival (EIFF) is one of Canada’s premier film events, bringing together cinema lovers, directors, and actors from around the world each year. The festival showcases a diverse and engaging program, featuring feature films, documentaries, and short films. With its unique atmosphere, EIFF attracts both industry professionals and casual film enthusiasts. This article on edmonton-trend takes a closer look at the festival’s history and its distinctive features.
The Mission of the Film Festival
The mission of the Edmonton International Film Festival is to introduce Edmonton’s cinema enthusiasts to high-quality films from around the world, while providing filmmakers with a platform to showcase their work on an internationally recognized festival stage.
The festival is dedicated to encouraging and supporting cinema as an art form.
How the Festival Works
EIFF features films produced within the 20 months leading up to each festival. The selection process is based on submissions, with jury members evaluating films primarily on storytelling and originality, rather than technical aspects like sound or picture quality. A key requirement is that all films must be premieres in Edmonton.
Organizers acknowledge that filmmakers may submit works with imperfect sound or color correction. They emphasize their passion for cinema and the people who create it, encouraging filmmakers to submit their projects even if they are uncertain about technical quality. As a non-profit charitable organization, participation in EIFF is completely free.
Numerous reviews from past participants highlight the festival’s dedication to film and filmmaking. Many filmmakers have noted that EIFF places strong emphasis on Indigenous voices, fostering a welcoming and inclusive space for diverse storytellers. Attendees frequently share positive experiences of networking and engaging discussions during the festival.
Throughout the event, films are screened in various theatres across the city. The festival also features Q&A sessions with directors, gala screenings, and showcases of local filmmakers.
The History of the Festival
The Edmonton International Film Festival originated in 1986 under the name “Local Heroes”, initially running as a three-day event. Over the years, it expanded significantly, and in 2003, it evolved into a nine-day festival under its current name.
Since its inception, EIFF has welcomed numerous cinema icons, including Tom Fitzgerald, Werner Herzog, Naomi Klein, Jørgen Leth, Molly Parker, John Waters, and Bruce McDonald, among others.
In 2020, the festival took on a unique format due to the COVID-19 pandemic. That year, EIFF partnered with the premium Canadian network “Super Channel”, which broadcast 20 feature films and 20 short films over 10 days.
Additionally, EIFF was held at Landmark Cinemas, operating under strict capacity limitations, allowing only 25% occupancy in screening rooms. The cinema showcased 22 short films and all 30 feature films. The 2020 festival winners included the short films “The Bear and the Beekeeper” and “If Anything Happens I Love You”.In conclusion, the Edmonton International Film Festival is a major cultural event that attracts film enthusiasts and tourists from around the world. It plays a crucial role in supporting independent cinema, introducing emerging filmmakers to a wider audience, and providing a platform for new voices in the industry. EIFF continues to shape the city’s cinematic landscape, offering unforgettable experiences for both filmmakers and audiences alike.
