ABOUT + CONTACT

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL 

The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) is a 501 (c)(3) charitable corporation in good standing whose mission is to welcome makers and lovers of film from all over the world to the storied seaside village of Coronado, California to celebrate the magical art of visual storytelling. Coronado’s enduring love affair with Hollywood began more than a century ago at the iconic Hotel del Coronado, our festival’s Presenting Sponsor. Launched in 2016, CIFF quickly established itself as a unique, walkable, destination film festival. Through year-round events and screenings, Q & A’s, workshops, live performances, informative panels, celebrity tributes, and awards presented by juries of respected industry pros, the festival continues to attract filmmakers at every level of their craft, celebrities, and various industry notables who come to experience the best of independent, studio and student films in an intimate and welcoming environment.

OVERVIEW
The Coronado Island Film Festival (CIFF) is a dynamic force
enriching the cultural fabric of the region by celebrating the
transformative power of visual storytelling. With its thoughtfully
curated selection of films—including narrative features, shorts, and
documentaries—the festival inspires an appreciation for cinema
that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. By showcasing a
diverse range of stories, CIFF creates a vibrant and inclusive
community that brings filmmakers and audiences together in a
shared love of the art form.

A cornerstone of the festival is its commitment to honoring the
human spirit through film. Special awards, such as the Industry
Tribute Awards, spotlight outstanding contributions to the
entertainment industry. CIFF also features a stellar Jury Team, which
evaluates the best in several categories, recognizing exceptional
films, directors, and talent. The recently introduced screenwriters
competition further amplifies emerging voices, elevating fresh
perspectives and solidifying CIFF’s role as a platform for innovation
and creativity.

The festival’s dedication to nurturing new talent is evident through
its emphasis on student films, which encourage aspiring filmmakers
and inspire the next generation of storytellers. This focus ensures
that CIFF not only entertains but also educates and empowers,
fostering the growth of the arts within the community.
Adding to its impact, CIFF awards over $20K in jury cash prizes,
advancing its mission to invest in independent artists. These prizes
provide meaningful support for creative endeavors, reinforcing the
festival’s reputation as a champion for the arts and an advocate for
independent voices.

In its entirety, the Coronado Island Film Festival serves as a catalyst
for creativity, community engagement, and cultural exchange. It
solidifies Coronado’s status as a premier destination for film lovers
and creators, while championing the boundless potential of
cinematic storytelling.