Movies We're Looking Forward to at VIFF

This year's 44th annual Vancouver Film Festival runs from October 2nd to 12th, and it’s set to be a buzzing lineup of films from all over the globe. With 170 films and 100 shorts on deck, you can treat yourself to a cinematic buffet, and what better way to enjoy it than in Hollywood’s North? As Vancouver is the hub for film and TV production, we know a thing or two about good cinema. Here are the films we’re most looking forward to watching during the Vancouver International Film Festival.

Nouvelle Vague

This highly anticipated film is an homage to the French film Breathless from 1959; it's a balance of comedy and drama with young, ambitious actors trying to rewrite the film-making world. Shot in the playful style of French New Wave cinema, it’s a nod to the past, but with director Richard Linklater’s fresh twist.

Recommended Audience: PG-13

When It's Being Shown: Sat, Oct 4, Sat, Oct 11, Sun, Oct 12 at Vancouver Playhouse

Left-Handed Girl

A single mother running a noodle stand in Taipei struggles to hold her family together as her youngest daughter, known for her “slippery left hand” and shoplifting habit, brings turmoil. Sean Baker and Samantha Quan, best known for collaborating on award-winning films like Anora and The Florida Project, are the directors of this exciting new film.

Audience: PG-13

When It's Being Shown: Fri, Oct 3, and Sun, Oct 5, at SFU Woodward’s

Father Mother Sister Brother

This film tells the story of adult children reconnecting with their distant parents in different cities. It's a drama, but peppered with dry humour throughout, as it confronts growing pains. Each perspective shines a light on different hardships. You’ll spot your favourite A-list actors like Kate Blanchet and Adam Driver.

Audience: PG-13

When It's Being Shown: Fri, Oct 10 at The Rio Theatre, and Sun, Oct 12 at Vancouver Playhouse

Blue Heron

Directed by British Columbia’s own, Sophy Romvari, tells the story of a young Hungarian family on their journey to immigrating to Vancouver Island in the 90s. The film is told through the eyes of curious eight-year-old Sasha, as she captures her family dynamic under the adjustment of starting a new life in Canada.

Audience: PG

When It's Being Shown: Saturday, October 4, at The Cinematheque and Sunday, October 5, at Fifth Avenue Cinema

What Does That Nature Say to You

A tipsy poet gets thrown into his girlfriend's family dinner. As the night goes on, conversations heat up through drunkenness and passion, blending humour and discomfort. Shot in a blurry, fly-on-the-wall style, this film is part of VIFF’s Korean Film Spotlight, which captures raw and uncomfortable family dynamics.

Audience: PG-13

When It's Being Shown: Friday, October 10, at Granville Island Stage and Sunday, October 12, at Fifth Avenue Cinema

Where Can I Eat Nearby?

Because the Vancouver International Film Festival will be taking place all over the city, there are plenty of bars and restaurants within a short walking distance to make your pre- or post-movie night extra special.

Say your flick is showing at the Vancouver Playhouse, The Cinematique, The Viff Center, or at the Cineplex International Village. In that case, you have Acquarfina and Chambar in Yaletown for Michelin-recognized cuisine. And for drinks, head over to Bar Gobo and The Keefer Bar for wine and award-winning cocktails.

At the SFU Woodwards in Gastown, you’ll be ideally situated among cultural food gems. For Mexican street eats, grab a bite at Cielito Lindo, and for fresh Lebanese fare, go for Nuba. And if you’re craving French, L’Abattoir is just a six-minute walk away from the theatre.

If you’re in Kitsilano at Fifth Ave Cinema, you don’t have to go far; Novo Italian is just next door or keep warm a few blocks over at Ramen Danbo. The Granville Island Stage is also nearby, with plenty of fresh BC fish at Dockside Restaurant and local pints at Granville Island Brewing.

And if your screening’s at The Rio Theatre on Commercial Drive, spice it up with Cuban Eats at Havana or grab a drink at St. Augustine’s.

Are There Any Kid-Friendly Films?

Travelling with little movie buffs? The Vancouver International Film Festival is hosting the Kids Club on October 4th, with a selection of cute animated shorts by Canadian directors. Tickets go for $10 and include the film screening, as well as activities. Go ahead and tell your kids it’s the coolest club in town, and for one day it really is! Book your tickets here.

The Vancouver International Film Festival is not only the ultimate way to watch culture on the big screens, but a way to explore Vancouver’s best neighbourhoods. Tickets are live now on the VIFF Centre website, or for box office purchase 30 minutes before screen time. So grab your popcorn and tickets, the Vancouver International Film Festival starts now.