RiverRun International Film Festival 2025: What You Need to Know

If you’re a fan of vibrant global storytelling, cutting-edge documentaries, and the kind of community atmosphere that only a dedicated festival can offer, then the 27th annual RiverRun International Film Festival is bound to be one of the biggest highlights on your cultural calendar this year. Taking place from April 11 to 19, 2025, this esteemed celebration of cinema unfolds in the picturesque cities of Winston-Salem and Greensboro, North Carolina, uniting passionate filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts alike under one compelling mission: to share enthralling stories from around the world and showcase the future of filmmaking.

Below, you’ll find a comprehensive breakdown of what to expect at this year’s RiverRun International Film Festival, from venue details and ticketing info to the essential films and special programs you won’t want to miss. And if you’re eager to dive deeper into detailed movie summaries, fun quizzes, or even read about the list of people and actors behind the magic, remember to visit What’s After the Movie—your one-stop hub for everything cinematic, including our engaging blog, our esteemed awards list, and the latest box office results.

1. The Festival Overview

Since its inception, the RiverRun International Film Festival has earned a reputation for championing diverse voices and showcasing bold, innovative cinema. In 2025, attendees can look forward to:

175 Films spanning 33 countries, delivering a truly global perspective and a range of genres—from powerful dramas to whimsical animations.
An inclusive environment that welcomes film buffs, families, students, and industry professionals to come together, discuss, learn, and celebrate the art of storytelling.

In short, whether you’re new to the festival scene or a seasoned cinephile, RiverRun offers an immersive experience you’re unlikely to forget.

2. Key Dates and Venues

Dates: April 11–19, 2025
Locations: Screenings and special events take place across multiple venues in Winston-Salem and Greensboro, North Carolina, each carefully selected to enhance your viewing experience. From historic theaters with vintage charm to modern auditoriums boasting state-of-the-art sound systems, attendees can anticipate unique atmospheres tailored to the festival’s diverse film lineup.

Tip: Be sure to check out the official RiverRun website for a full schedule of screenings, as well as any last-minute additions or changes to specific venues.

3. Must-See Films

“Ma France A Moi”

Genre: Narrative / Drama
Highlight: Starring the legendary Fanny Ardant, this French-language film promises a deeply emotional journey as it captures the nuances of modern life in France. Expect breathtaking cinematography, strong performances, and exquisite storytelling.

“Sally”

Genre: Documentary / Biography
Highlight: Having premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, “Sally” explores the life of astronaut Sally Ride, the first American woman to travel to space. With interviews, archival footage, and insights from her closest companions, this film offers an inspiring look at one of NASA’s trailblazers.

“Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore”

Genre: Documentary / Career Retrospective
Highlight: Peeling back the layers of actress Marlee Matlin’s remarkable career, this documentary promises an intimate view of the Oscar-winning star’s journey. From her earliest roles to her ongoing advocacy for the deaf community, the film serves as both a tribute and an educational piece for fans worldwide.

“The Summer Book”

Genre: Drama / Family
Highlight: Featuring the incomparable Glenn Close, “The Summer Book” transports viewers to a serene island in Finland, weaving a touching story about familial bonds, nature, and the passage of time. Expect lush visuals and a poignant narrative—perfect for those who appreciate thoughtful cinema.

If you’re curious to learn more about the key cast members of these standout titles, take a peek at the list of people and actors on What’s After the Movie, where you’ll find fascinating insights into their filmographies, accolades, and upcoming projects.

4. Special Programs and Events

Animated Shorts Program

A highlight of RiverRun’s calendar each year, the Animated Shorts Program carries Academy Award®-qualifying status, showcasing the creativity of animation artists from all corners of the globe. These shorts span different styles—2D, 3D, stop-motion, and experimental—offering a glimpse into the boundless possibilities of visual storytelling.

Late Night Shorts

If you’re craving out-of-the-box narratives that defy convention, be sure to catch the Late Night Shorts block. Often bizarre, sometimes daring, and always unexpected, these short films are perfect for night owls looking to indulge in more experimental fare.

Saturday Morning Cartoons

Feeling a tinge of nostalgia? Bring the family—or simply your inner child—to the Saturday Morning Cartoons program. This lineup features family-friendly animated features and shorts that promise a wholesome, light-hearted cinematic experience.

5. Tickets and Attendance

With the festival’s growing popularity, it’s wise to secure your tickets as early as possible. You can purchase:

Individual Screening Tickets: Ideal for those looking to see a specific film or program.
Sampler Packages: Designed for attendees who want to explore multiple films and events without committing to a full pass.

Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the RiverRun website for any discounts, early-bird passes, or student packages that might become available. Planning ahead is key to ensuring you get a seat for some of the festival’s most sought-after screenings.

6. Emerging Talents to Watch

As part of its unwavering commitment to new and diverse voices, RiverRun dedicates special screenings and Q&A sessions to up-and-coming directors, writers, and producers. This is your chance to witness the future of cinema up close, discovering bold new styles and compelling storytelling techniques. Be sure to check the program for these emerging talents; it’s often at festivals like RiverRun that next-generation filmmakers start making their mark.

Feeling Inspired? Keep track of box office breakthroughs and potential award contenders by heading over to the awards list and box office results pages at What’s After the Movie for up-to-date insights on which indie darlings might become critical sensations.

Quick Reference: RiverRun 2025

Category	Details
Dates	April 11–19, 2025
Location	Winston-Salem & Greensboro, North Carolina
Number of Films	175 (from 33 countries)
Highlighted Films	“Ma France A Moi,” “Sally,” “Marlee Matlin: Not Alone Anymore,” “The Summer Book”
Special Programs	Animated Shorts (Oscar-qualifying), Late Night Shorts, Saturday Morning Cartoons
Ticket Options	Individual Tickets & Sampler Packages
Emerging Talents	Up-and-coming directors and filmmakers to watch

Final Thoughts

The 27th annual RiverRun International Film Festival is shaping up to be a can’t-miss occasion for lovers of cinema, culture, and community. From world-class narratives that sweep you off your feet to documentaries that peel back the layers of fascinating real-world stories, this festival stands as a testament to the enduring power of film to inspire, unite, and open minds.

Ready to take your RiverRun experience to the next level? Dive into exclusive movie summaries, explore detailed cast and crew profiles, and expand your festival perspectives with interactive quizzes over at What’s After the Movie. Our blog also offers a treasure trove of behind-the-scenes info, festival recaps, and thoughtful analyses that will help you get the most out of every screening.

So, mark your calendars for April 11 to 19, and prepare to immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of films, friendships, and festivities that define RiverRun. Whether you’re a casual moviegoer or a devoted film enthusiast, this year’s festival promises to be nothing short of extraordinary—and you won’t want to miss a moment!