Bahamas International Film Festival

BIFF showcases world premieres and Bahamian premieres, featuring four competitive categories: Spirit of Freedom (Narrative & Documentary), New Visions, and Short Film. Other sections include World Cinema and Gala Screenings. Offering a relaxed island atmosphere, BIFF provides filmmakers with networking opportunities and the amenities of a top festival.

"I was honored to have my short film SAVERIO selected as a finalist at the Bahamas International Film Festival. Even from afar, BIFF stood out as a festival that champions strong, socially resonant storytelling and elevates filmmakers at every stage. Being included among such thoughtful, global work was truly meaningful, and I’m grateful to the programming team for recognizing SAVERIO and the difficult subject matter it explores.
Congratulations to the organizers and fellow filmmakers for creating what is clearly a vibrant, artist-forward festival. I hope to attend in person in the future and experience the community firsthand." Ellen Ancui

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"As a screenwriter, it is rare to find a festival that truly understands the writing process its solitude, its uncertainty, and its need for time, trust, and thoughtful guidance. The Bahamas International Film Festival offers exactly that. My experience at BIFF, particularly through the Screenwriting Residency, was deeply meaningful and creatively transformative. This was not a rushed program built around deadlines or surface-level feedback. Instead, it provided space real space to think, to question, and to listen to the story more honestly. The one-on-one conversations, the openness to process, and the respect shown toward each writer’s voice made the experience feel personal and sincere.
What stood out most was the genuine care behind the program. Leslie’s vision and leadership shape BIFF into something rare: a festival that values writers not only for what they produce, but for who they are in the middle of creating. Her presence, generosity, and attentiveness create an environment where writers feel seen, supported, and encouraged to take creative risks." Hakan Unal

Jeffrey Lyons, one of Hollywood’s best-known film critics and author of “The Stories My Father Told Me” has high praise for BIFF. He says, "The Bahamas International Film Festival is a shining light among a large field of film festivals; it has an astonishing intimacy about it. Young filmmakers, many of them talented Bahamians, get to rub shoulders with movie stars and established filmmakers; contacts they might otherwise not have. It is a celebration of international artistic achievement in one of the most beautiful places on earth, and a vital part of The Bahamas' standing as a creative Mecca for all."
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Michael Graf: The BIFF Screenwriter's Residency Program is a game-changer. 5 aspiring writers, and 5 A-List Producers & Writers on an island with the sole focus of taking the screenwriter's work to the next level. Rarely do writers get to experience such an in-depth program. A must for any serious and aspiring screenwriter.

As a non-profit, BIFF presents diverse films, cultural experiences, educational programs, and forums on the future of cinema.