BIFF presents world premieres and all films shown at BIFF are Bahamian premieres. There are four competition categories; Spirit of Freedom: Narrative & Documentary; New Visions; and Short Film. Special sections include World Cinema as well as Gala Screenings.

BIFF offers much to the filmmaker by way of networking in a relaxed, island atmosphere while simultaneously providing all the amenities of an excellent festival.

REVIEWS:
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.

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The Bahamas International Film Festival is a non–profit organization dedicated to providing the local community and international visitors with a diverse presentation of films from around the world. In addition to offering films that might not otherwise be released theatrically in the Bahamas, BIFF will provide a unique cultural experience, educational programs, and forums for exploring the future of cinema.

BIFF offers Competitive Categories such as Best Screenplay, Spirit of Freedom (Narrative & Documentary), New Visions for first and second-time filmmakers, and Short Films.

ELIGIBILITY
Films must never have been screened anywhere in The Bahamas prior to the Festival
Films must be submitted via FilmFreeway online.
Films must have been completed after January 2023 to be eligible
Non- English-language films must be subtitled in English
Only online screenings will be accepted for preview.
All Submissions will be added to the BIFF archives and made available to buyers and distributors upon request.
Films Submitted will not receive screening fees for showcasing films
Films selected will be placed in the appropriate category by BIFF
Participants who are selected will be notified via email of the selection results approximately six weeks before the Festival. Shipping instructions for films selected for the Festival will be included. The festival accepts limited responsibility for technical damage to prints or tapes and for loss or theft for the period of time that the prints are in the Festival’s possession, up to a maximum of $100. The delivery cost of the exhibition print will be borne by the applicant. BIFF will cover the return or forwarding cost of the exhibition print but not any additional charges, which may be incurred at the consignee’s end. Programmed works may be excerpted (up to 2 minutes) for television and other promotional purposes

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Bianca O'Neill

    A wonderful festival. It would have been a dream to have attended as looked like a great atmosphere but we are truly honoured that our Film Yellow Daisy Butterfly was selected and screened. Highly recommended. Hope to attend in the future.

    November 2024
  • Thanks for let our film "Spider-zan" to be a part of your amazing film festival.

    November 2024
  • What an incredible experience! Tropical location, powerful films, and the loveliest of people! Thank you Leslie and the rest of the BIFF Team, we are humbled and proud to carry the Bahamas Laurel for our film BOUND and can’t wait to be back!

    November 2024
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    Response from festival:

    Dear Isaac this means the world. I am so honored to have welcomed you to BIFF. We truly loved everyone from your film!! Your enthusiasm from submission till we bid farewell was always met with immense gratitude something many filmmakers should emulate. I am so so happy Alexandra won best actress! Again thank you! We look forward to welcoming you back home with your films in the very near future. Once again thank you!

  • Magic Team

    An incredible experience! One of the best festivals in the world. Thank you for selecting my TV script Start Over.

    March 2022
  • Julia Verdin

    The Bahamas international film festival is truly wonderful. Leslie has great energy and makes all feel very welcome. The panels and films were all fantastic and even though the festival was virtual this year, Leslie found ways for the filmmakers to meet each other and share experiences and stories. Every effort was made to celebrate film and the filmmakers and connect all. I just can't wait to be able to go in person to a future festival. Highly recommend! Thanks Leslie and team for a great experience.

    January 2021
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    Response from festival:

    Julia, it is such a joy to have you as part of the BIFF family. I am a huge fan of you and your films. Your passion for your actors, the story, and your participation I am truly honored. Thank you thank you!!