Kitchener-Waterloo International Film Festival (KWIFF)
KITCHENER-WATERLOO INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (KWIFF)
Welcome to the Kitchener-Waterloo International Film Festival (KWIFF), a dynamic and inclusive celebration of cinema that brings people together through the art of storytelling. Presented by the Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival (TINFF)—a Canadian Screen Awards qualifying festival—and Quoracles Digital Inc., KWIFF is committed to enriching, inspiring, and promoting the work of independent filmmakers and artists from around the world.
While proudly based in the culturally vibrant Kitchener-Waterloo region, KWIFF extends its reach beyond city borders to celebrate and promote creativity across Ontario. Each year, the festival hosts a variety of events—including live film screenings with engaging Q&A sessions, workshops, conferences, round table discussions, and keynote presentations—in Kitchener-Waterloo, Toronto, and Brampton. KWIFF’s mission is to foster a supportive platform for emerging and established talent, while nurturing a deeper appreciation for diverse voices and stories within Canada and on the international stage.
11-13.SEP | 2025
Join Us
KWIFF 2025 Official Screening Schedule
Screening Schedule – Thursday, September 11
Venue: Toronto Public Library – Fairview Theater
Address: 35 Fairview Mall Dr, North York, ON M2J 4S4
KWIFF 2025 Opening Film is a Canadian feature HOME FREE
KWIFF 2025 opens with the acclaimed Canadian feature Home Free, setting the tone for a bold and diverse lineup of international and local films. This year’s program celebrates powerful storytelling and fresh voices from around the world. Visit the Screening Schedule page for full details on all featured films and screening times.
KWIFF 2025 Opening Film is the Canadian feature HOME FREE
"Herb and Audry have had a near perfect relationship for over fifty years. This anniversary, Herb has a few surprises in store for his three estranged daughters; Daisy, the youngest, Ivy, the middle child, and Rain, the eldest. Herb, having recently been diagnosed with a fatal brain tumour, announces that he is choosing to die on his own terms and is not seeking treatment. Not only that, but he wants to spend his remaining hours with them getting to know their inner most secrets and finding a way to clear the air between the three.
Welcome to the Canada Black & Diversity Film (CBDF) Market Summit
Presented by the Kitchener-Waterloo International Film Festival (KWIFF) Co-presented by subsidiaries TINFF & BINFF
We are proud to introduce the inaugural edition of the CBDF Market Summit, a premier global platform celebrating the best in film, music, and the performing arts. Hosted as part of the Kitchener-Waterloo International Film Festival (KWIFF 2025), this summit brings together industry professionals, creatives, and change-makers from across the entertainment world.
Exhibitors, Workshop Presenters, Panelists
Event Dates:
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Online Edition: September 9, 2025
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In-Person Edition: September 10–11, 2025
As a special invitation, all official selections and nominees of KWIFF 2025 are welcomed to attend the Market Summit for free.
What to Expect:
The CBDF Market Summit is your gateway to invaluable industry insights, networking, and collaboration opportunities. Attendees will experience:
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Curated panels and sessions on global film production and distribution
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Industry matchmaking and networking events
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Social mixers, red carpet moments, and access to the annual awards gala
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Live conversations with top talent and thought leaders in the content ecosystem
Join Us
As one of Canada's leading festivals for diversity, inclusion, and multicultural storytelling, TINFF is proud to help spotlight global voices and connect creatives through this vibrant marketplace of ideas and opportunities.
Join us and be part of this dynamic celebration of the art and business of filmmaking on a world stage.
2025 Nominees
KWIFF 2025 Inaugural Award Nominees Announced
The Kitchener Waterloo International Film Festival (KWIFF) is proud to announce the nominees for its 2025 Inaugural Awards. This landmark moment celebrates exceptional voices in film, television, and digital media, marking a new chapter in KWIFF’s mission to spotlight global storytelling and innovation. The 2025 nominees reflect the creativity, diversity, and vision of artists from around the world.
More details on the awards ceremony and official programming will be announced soon.
KWIFF 2025 OFFICIAL SELECTION & AWARD NOMINEES
The Kitchener Waterloo International Film Festival proudly presents its 2025 Official Selection and Inaugural Award Nominees. This year’s lineup showcases bold, diverse, and visionary storytelling from across the globe — celebrating the creative voices shaping the future of film and media.
KWIFF News
Opening Night
KWIFF Opening Night kicks off in Toronto with an unforgettable evening of film, culture, and connection. Join us for a red carpet reception, the premiere screening, and a post-film Q&A with the filmmakers. Celebrate the start of the festival with artists, industry guests, and film lovers from across Ontario.
Winners
The winners of KWIFF will be revealed at the Gala Awards – a night dedicated to celebrating outstanding films and filmmakers.
Join us for a memorable evening of recognition, achievement, and cinematic excellence.
NewTrailers
Screening + Q&A Sessions
Enjoy thought-provoking films followed by in-depth Q&A sessions with filmmakers, offering exclusive insights into their creative journeys.
Market Summit
The Market Summit brings together industry experts and filmmakers for powerful networking opportunities, discussions, and collaborations in the world of independent cinema.
Festival Ticket and Pass
Get your Festival Ticket or Pass for full access to screenings, workshops, panels, and exclusive events, ensuring you don’t miss a moment of the action.
Gala Awards
Join us for the KWIFF Gala Awards, a spectacular evening celebrating the best in film, where the most outstanding filmmakers and films are honored.