Every year we celebrate the arrival of the country’s most important film festivals that takes place right here in Mill Valley. Each October, The Mill Valley Film Festival welcomes more than 200 filmmakers, representing more than 50 countries, to picturesque Mill Valley. The festival has an impressive track record of launching new films and new filmmakers, and has earned a reputation as a filmmakers’ festival by celebrating the best in American independent and foreign films, along side high-profile and prestigious award contenders.
Our yearly guide celebrates everything that makes the festival great, delving into the featured films, different aspects of the festival including its documentary and educational sections, and offers comprehensive listings of screenings, so you can get a feel for what to expect. The 48th edition of the festival will run from October 2-12th 2025; below, find our guide to the best films and events not to miss.
Also don’t miss our sponsored film this year Is This Thing On? directed by Bradley Cooper, starring Will Arnett and Laura Dern.
Explore the 48th Festival
48 Years of Cinema at the Mill Valley Film Festival
The festival celebrated another year of global cinema and diversity, with tributes to many top filmmakers.
Want to See Next Year’s Oscar Winner? It’s Probably at the Mill Valley Film Festival
MVFF48 continues its 48-year legacy of featuring Oscar-winning films, actors, and directors before the buzz.
Ten Years of Minding the Gap: MVFF48 Honors Filmmaker Eva Victor and Actor Rose Byrne
It’s the 10th anniversary of this gender equity initiative celebrating the bold work of female and nonbinary filmmakers.
Music at the 48th Mill Valley Film Festival
MVFF48 showcases films on music’s impact, featuring Springsteen, Metallica, Sun Ra, Peter Asher, and Linklater’s anticipated Blue Moon.
MVFF Executive Director and Founder Mark Fishkin Shares the Highlights of the Festival’s 48th Edition
At MVFF 48, Mark Fishkin highlights moving premieres, Kristen Stewart’s debut, and Zoë Elton’s impact, while urging audiences to take chances.
World Cinema Not to Miss at the 48th Mill Valley Film Festival: “Hamnet,” “Bugonia,” “Rental Family” and More
MVFF48 World Cinema features Jodie Foster, Brendan Fraser, Emma Stone, and Paul Mescal in powerful global stories from acclaimed directors.
