Summer Film Scene - San Francisco

Summer in San Francisco may have you wearing your favorite beanie, but what better time to check out some great films? 

Here is your guide to a cinematic summer - 

[Image Courtesy of SF Station]

San Francisco Frozen Film Festival // Roxie Theater, Mission, San Francisco // July 20th - 23rd

Independent Avant-Garde Pop Culture Films

"Top 25 coolest film festivals in the world" - Moviemaker Magazine

Pun intended? 

"With the abundance of filmmakers in the world, but a relative lack of screening opportunities, we are proud to feature a selection of international and domestic films that will bring filmmakers from around the world to San Francisco to celebrate the power of cinema and art." - SFFFF

[Image Courtesy of JFFSF]

Japan Film Festival of San Francisco // New People Cinema, Japan Town, San Francisco

If you're an Anime fan or would just like to see some independent Japanese cinema head over to the New People Cinema in the heart of Japan town for a unique cinema experience. The exact date has yet to be confirmed to keep an eye out on jffsf.org for updates on dates and tickets.

The San Francisco Jewish Film Festival // Castro Theater, Castro, San Francisco - and Beyond // July 20 - August 6

The largest and oldest festival of its kind, films in the San Francisco Jewish Film Festival explore many different aspects of Jewish Culture. This three week long festival of films, music, and good eats aims to highlight the following values: 

"to champion freedom of expression, reveal diverse points of view, provide platforms for open dialogue, honor depth and complexity in storytelling, and nurture and build connections within and beyond Jewish communities." - SFJFF

Partially inspired by a post-it note installation in the New York subway, each note emitting a message of positivity. 

Check out sfjff.org for the fantastic lineup and ticket information.

[Image courtesy of caiff.org]

California Independent Film Festival // Orinda Theater, Rheem Theater, Castro Theater // September 8 - 14

This festival takes place in several historic theaters in the Bay Area.

"It celebrates diversity, human rights, and freedom of expression through an array of dramatic and comedic feature films, shorts and moving documentaries." - caiff.org

Tickets are on sale online now. In-person tickets will also be available but advance purchase is strongly as many events sell out.

Some other great film events to add to your list - 

[Image courtesy of filmnightssf.org]

Film Nights in the Park // June 10 - September 23

Don't sweat if you've missed the past few screenings; this event carries all the way through September. Check out these fun films on a huge outdoor screen at several different park venues throughout the city. Thanks to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, this event is free!

Image courtesy of The Castro Theater

Castro Theater // Castro, San Francisco

Last but not least, not forget to keep an eye on the historic Castro Theater's film schedule. Get a double whammy on their double feature nights, or if you're brave, attend a sing along! (Don't worry, no one can hear you) 

Tickets, including gift tickets available online and at the door, but screenings at this charming venue are extremely popular and sell out fast!

Sources // Cindy Hu - Sftravel.com // sfjff37 - sfjff.org // jffsf.org //

By Laura Siân Morris