A Guide to the Calgary International Film Festival That’ll Convert Anyone Into an Avid Cinephile
Watching movies is my favorite way to destress after work. Just like almost everyone else, I have subscriptions to a bunch of the most popular streaming services out there.
But even with how many movies there are on these platforms, sometimes it’s just not enough. There are times when I’m craving new and fresh stories that I just can’t find on these apps.
This is why I got into the habit of attending the Calgary International Film Festival. It has opened my eyes to just how many talented filmmakers there are in the city. Plus, I always manage to watch gems that I otherwise wouldn’t hear about anywhere else.
Interested but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry, this guide has everything you need to know when it comes to attending the Calgary International Film Festival or CIFF.
Things to Know
Tickets
Ticket prices for the Calgary International Film Festival vary depending on the type of film you want to watch. Special screenings apply to the most in-demand films during the festival.
- Regular Screenings – $17
- Special Screenings – $19
Ticket bundles are also available for those who wish to watch multiple entries.
- 5 Ticket Bundle – $77
- 8 Ticket Bundle – $122
- 12 Ticket Bundle – $184
- 20 Ticket Bundle – $289
Rush Lines
In the event that you don’t get a ticket for a film you want to watch, you’ll still have a chance to see it. The festival opens a rush line an hour before the screening to fill in any seats inside the cinema.
However, audiences are admitted on a first-come, first-served basis so there’s no assurance that you can get in. Fortunately, all film entries are shown at least twice, meaning you’ll have multiple chances to avail tickets or try the rush line once again.
Film Submissions
Filmmakers are encouraged to submit their work online at FilmFreeway. The film must meet the criteria of its category to be considered in the lineup.
The deadline for submissions is usually in May and finalists will receive confirmation that their films were chosen in August. The festival will grant over $30,000 in cash and prizes to award-winning films.
Where is the Calgary International Film Festival held?
The Calgary International Film Festival has been held in a variety of places throughout the years. However, it has mostly been screened in cinemas located in Downtown Core.
Wait for the official announcement to know where this year’s Calgary International Film Festival is going to be held.
What to Do at the Calgary International Film Festival
Go through the festival’s lineup
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With almost 200 films to choose from, the Calgary International Film Festival is basically a cinephile’s paradise. It may seem like an overwhelming number at first, but the CIFF provides an online film guide to help you figure out which ones to see.
Personally, I tend to go for thrillers and horror movies first. But I know those genres aren’t exactly everyone’s cup of tea, which is why it’s very convenient that the CIFF webpage has filters for their film list.
You can click on keywords like such as ‘family-friendly’, ‘coming-of-age’, ‘sci-fi’, and more to find the movies that’ll fit your preferences.
Out of all of them, I’d highly recommend checking out the ‘Alberta Spotlight’ section. It showcases the best of current local filmmakers and it really makes you proud to be from Calgary.
Plus, I don’t know if it’s just me, but I get a kick out of recognizing locations that they filmed at.
Get a ‘first look’ at highly-anticipated movies
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Ever been excited for a movie only to have it ruined by pesky spoilers? Well, the CIFF can help you with that.
One of the best perks of supporting this festival is that you get to watch movies before everyone else. Their ‘First Look’ series provides exclusive early access to critically acclaimed films months before their wide-screen release.
I never feel jealous of friends who get to watch movies on opening night anymore. This is because usually, I’ve already seen the movie long ago.
Keep in mind that tickets sell out fast though. Be sure to sign up for their newsletter to instantly get notified when they’ll be available.
Join Generation Next
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If you’re a high school student who wants to explore the world of film, then you’re in luck. The CIFF has a program called Generation Next that’s meant to encourage a love of movies among the youth.
Every year, 20 students are chosen to see all the movies included in the festival. They also get to sit in during exclusive events, such as interviews with filmmakers, to get a taste of what happens in the film industry.
I just know that if this was around when I was a student, I would’ve joined in a heartbeat. Not only does it seem fun, but I can’t imagine just how cool it is to be in the same room as acclaimed directors and actors.
Volunteer at CIFF
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You can take your love of films one step further by working for the festival that makes them accessible.
The CIFF accepts volunteers who want to help out in organizing their events. You’ll get to go behind the scenes, collaborate with professionals in the film industry, as well as enjoy perks such as free film screenings.
It’s also a great chance to connect with other passionate cinephiles. You never know, your fellow volunteer might just end up being the next Christopher Nolan or Sofia Coppola.
Where to Eat near the Calgary International Film Festival
Sky 360
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Address: 101 9 Ave SW
Phone: +1 403 532 7966
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Monday to Thursday – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Friday – 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM, 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Saturday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 12:00 AM
- Sunday – 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Sky 360 takes “elevating” the dining experience seriously. This is a revolving restaurant set on top of the Calgary Tower, offering striking views of the city and all the way up to the Rockies.
Don’t think of it as just a ‘gimmick’ restaurant though. The scenery is just half of what makes this place great.
The waitstaff here is top-notch. They’re used to seeing a lot of celebrations, so they do their best to make your time here extra special. This includes little touches such as giving complimentary desserts or adding in a few candles during dinner.
They’ve also got a good selection of dishes on their menu, but we just can’t seem to stay away from their Sky Burgers and the rich Creme Brulee for dessert. Trust us, we’re not exaggerating when we call this combo heavenly.
JOEY Eau Claire
– Media credit: joeyrestaurants
Address: 208 Barclay Parade SW, Market #200
Phone: +1 403 263 6336
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- Sunday to Thursday – 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Friday to Saturday – 11:00 AM to 1:00 AM
Joey Eau Claire will take you around the world with their menu. They offer an innovative fusion of different cuisines, including Japanese, Italian, American, Chinese, and more.
It may look like a hodge podge of different tastes at first glance, but the expert chefs at Joey found a way to make them all work together.
Don’t believe us? Order the Steak & Sushi and see for yourself. You’re never going to want those two things apart ever again because we certainly don’t.
The overall vibe of the place is also great. It’s a bit upscale and modern, but the servers’ friendly personalities make the entire restaurant feel much more welcoming and lively.
Out of everything here though, it’s the Apple Pie that keeps us coming back. We’ve had it for years but having the Apple Pie with some of their ice cream and a bit of maple syrup just never gets old.
Where to Stay near the Calgary International Film Festival
The Westin Calgary
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Address: 320 4 Ave SW
Phone: +1 403 266 1611
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
Calling all pet lovers, we’ve found the hotel for you. Both owners and pets are sure to be pampered here at the Westin. At no extra charge, they’ll set up a dog bed and dishes in your room so that you and your furry friend can feel at home.
But even if you’re not traveling with a pet, The Westin won’t disappoint.
Their friendly staff ensures that everything you need is taken care of. Whenever you return, your room will always be spotless and you might even find your shoes and clothes organized neatly.
This is also the best hotel for late-night cravings because their 24-hour kitchen can whip up some really great grub.
The only challenge with staying here is getting out of their comfy beds in the morning. However, we have a feeling you’ll be convinced once you remember that they have a sauna and a heated indoor pool.
Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire
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Address: 255 Barclay Parade SW
Phone: +1 403 266 7200
Pricing: $$
Operating Hours:
- 24-hour front desk
The Sheraton Suites Calgary Eau Claire has something for the whole family. With its convenient location Downtown, you’ll be within walking distance of some of the city’s most popular landmarks.
Inside the hotel, you’ll never be bored as well. While parents relax at the spa, the kids are going to have a blast with the indoor pool. We’re willing to bet that once they try that two-story water slide, they’re never going to want to leave.
A room here is also an attraction in it of itself. It comes with floor-to-ceiling windows that perfectly frame the picturesque view of Prince’s Island Park and the Bow River right outside.
But we won’t blame you if you end up barely exploring the city. The delicious food and whiskey served at the attached restaurant, Flower & Wolf, makes it really hard to eat anywhere else.
Apps to Download Before Attending the Calgary International Film Festival
SkipTheDepot: Recycling app with a cash-back feature that has a partnership with the Calgary International Film Festival
Letterboxd: Social media platform for movie buffs where users can log and rate films
Waze: Maps app with driving directions and live traffic updates
Calgary Transit: Ticketing App with the schedule information of public transportation vehicles