San Diego International Kids' Film Festival 2025

We are just days away from San Diego International Kids’ Film Festival! The 2025 edition promises a weekend full of creativity. Films made by and for children get the spotlight in this festival. Nearly 140 films and projects from over 32 countries will screen and present over three days.

SDIKFF features a range of films that will please even the pickiest viewer. Feature film ‘The Wildman of Shaggy Creek’ is a fantasy romp in the vein of ‘E.T.’ that’s fun for the whole family. ‘Pow!’ is an animated short lovingly made by an Indigenous team of Emmy-nominees. ‘Angel of War’ is a very personal film about growing up during war, based on the young filmmaker’s own experiences in Ukraine.

Writers have their time to shine Saturday evening at the Screenplay Showcase. An excerpt from the screenplay ‘Penny from Heaven’ will be performed live. This is a sweet tale of a heroic dog training to be an angel.

For filmmakers, there are multiple panels where they can learn from professionals in the industry. On Saturday, international filmmakers, including Filpina comedian Ana Tuazon Parsons, will discuss collaborating with the Asian film industries. Sunday, casting director Jaimie Beebe (Paradise City) will lead a discussion on how kids can prepare for auditions.

The always stunning Red Carpet will take place at the magnificent Genting Manor in El Cajon, graciously loaned by sponsor Carol Wei and Chris Tan.

The Award Ceremony will feature several performers including singer-songwriter Tina Hargett and the local VIP School of Music.

San Diego International Kids Film Festival 2025 will take place at the Carlsbad Senior Center August 22-24. It promises to be a fun-filled event for families and filmmakers alike. To see the full schedule, visit https://sdkidsfilms.org/. Tickets can be purchased on-site or at Ticketbud.