It’s been quite the journey, but the Mill Valley Film Festival (MVFF) is finally back in full force for its 45th edition. After pivoting to become an almost entirely virtual event in 2020 in response to Covid-19, MVFF welcomed audiences back to the theater in a limited capacity in 2021. Now, with updated public health and safety guidelines in effect, the festival, running Oct. 6–16, will look and feel a lot closer to how it did pre-pandemic.
Each year the festival welcomes more than 200 filmmakers, representing more than 50 countries. Screening sections include World Cinema; US Cinema; Valley of the Docs; Children’s FilmFest; a daily shorts program; and Active Cinema, MVFF’s activist films initiative. Festival guests also enjoy Tributes, Spotlights and Galas throughout. The relaxed and non-competitive atmosphere surrounding MVFF, gives filmmakers and audiences alike the opportunity to share their work and experiences in a collaborative and convivial setting.
For more on the festival check out our coverage below. Looking for a guide to the films? See our full listings here:
Be sure to check out the Marin Magazine sponsored film, the music doc Santos — Skin to Skin. A Mission District legend in his own right, Afro-Latin musician and Grammy winner John Santos as one of the highlights of the festival’s recurring “Viva El Cine” initiative.
See the film October 8, 14th or 16th or watch it virtually.
More on MVFF
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” and More
MVFF48 World Cinema features Jodie Foster, Brendan Fraser, Emma Stone, and Paul Mescal in powerful global stories from acclaimed directors.
Mill Valley Film Festival’s Zoë Elton Reflects on More Than 40 Years as Director of Programming
Zoë Elton reflects on her amazing 40-year journey with the Mill Valley Film Festival and her new curatorial role.
Mind the Gap at MVFF Shows How Women in Film Pave the Way Forward
In a fraught year for women everywhere, the platform aims to amplify female filmmakers’ stories to instill hope, elicit empathy and provide support.
George Washington High Schools’ Controversial Mural Gets Examined in ‘Town Destroyer’, Screening at at the Mill Valley Film Festival
The filmmakers behind one of the festival’s most thought-provoking films prepare to meet with local students for thoughtful discussions about art and censorship.
The Strangest Show on Earth: San Francisco-Based Art Collective The Residents at the Mill Valley Film Festival
One of the most enigmatic bands on the planet descends on the Sweetwater Music Hall for a live experience like you’ve never seen before.