The Gimli International Film Festival (GIFF) is celebrating its 25th anniversary in a big way this summer with expanded prizes, a stacked lineup of films, and the return of crowd-favourite beach screenings.
Running July 23-27, this year’s milestone edition includes a $15,000 top prize in the RBC Emerging Filmmaker Pitch Competition, along with industry support and in-kind prizes for the winner.
The festival will also host the Explore Manitoba 25th Anniversary Raffle, featuring a grand prize travel package valued at more than $6,000 to support GIFF’s outreach programs.
“For a quarter century, the Gimli International Film Festival has been bringing a truly incredible cinematic experience to the shores of Lake Winnipeg,” said Teya Zuzek, executive director for GIFF.
“Our team is proud to continually champion regional, national, and international cinema from emerging and established filmmakers.”
Attendees can expect a diverse selection of films from around the world, including “Touch” (an award-winning romance from Iceland), “Agatha’s Almanac” (a Manitoba-set documentary), and “U Are the Universe” (a Ukrainian-French sci-fi feature).
Every evening, GIFF’s free RBC Sunset Screenings will light up the beach with classics like “Space Jam,” “Almost Famous,” and “Best in Show.” Festival-goers are encouraged to bring chairs, blankets, or even dig their own seat in the sand.
A daily shuttle service from Winnipeg will once again be available to ease travel.
More info and the complete festival schedule can be found at gimlifilm.com.
