The Dallas International Film Festival (DIFF) returned for its 19th edition this year, marking a significant milestone as it celebrated its first year as an Academy Award Qualifying Festival. Running from April 25 to May 1, 2025, this seven day celebration of cinema showcased over 120 films from around the globe, transforming Dallas into a hub for filmmakers, industry professionals, and movie enthusiasts alike.
Joe Hursley Red Carpet The Salamander King at the Dallas International Film Festival
A Festival with Prestige and Impact
Named by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences as an Oscar® Qualifying Festival in October, DIFF has joined an exclusive group of only 59 film festivals in the United States and 181 worldwide with this prestigious designation. This recognition allows winners of the festival's qualified awards: Grand Jury Prize for Best Animated Short Film, Best Documentary Short Film, and Best Narrative Short Film: to potentially qualify for the 98th Academy Awards®.
Since its founding, DIFF has screened more than 2,500 diverse films from 60 countries, provided over $1.1 million in awards, and hosted more than 100,000 filmgoers and filmmakers. The festival serves as the region's most inclusive platform for diverse, emerging, and underrepresented voices in film.
Texas Theatre Dallas Film Festival
Prime Locations Across Dallas
This year's festival was primarily hosted at Cinépolis Luxury Cinemas Victory Park, conveniently located near American Airlines Center. Additional screenings and events were held at several iconic Dallas venues, including the innovative AT&T Discovery District, the vibrant Harwood District, the historic Texas Theatre, and the artful Virgin Hotels Dallas, returning for its third year as the Premier Sponsor. The Dallas Film Festival is one of my favorite events of the year, and 2025's edition certainly lived up to expectations with its incredible lineup.
Matter of Time Press Tour Dallas International Film Festival
Standout Films
Matter of Time, directed by Jeremy Snead and starring Sean Astin, was one of my festival highlights. Premiering at the historic Texas Theater, this film follows a 29 year old aspiring video game designer who receives a time-stopping device from an eccentric toy shop owner named Gibbs (played by Astin). While I can't reveal too much about this unreleased gem still seeking distribution, I can say that Snead has crafted a heartfelt love letter to community, friendship, and Texas.
Actor Jamie Alexander and Writer/Director Jeremy Snead Red Carpet Dallas International Film Festival
My second festival favorite was the Gallagher documentary directed by Josh Forbes, The Gallagher Doc. This compelling film explores the complex life of the 1980s comedy icon known for his watermelon smashing antics. The documentary traces Gallagher's meteoric rise to comedy stardom and his subsequent fade from the spotlight, offering an honest look at both his undeniable impact on comedy and the complicated later years of his career and life. Forbes' unflinching approach provides welcome closure to one of entertainment's most fascinating stories, a must watch for anyone who's ever been captivated by Gallagher's unique brand of comedy.
Josh Forbes Red Carpet Dallas international Film Festival
DIFF Artistic Director James Faust curated a powerful collection of feature, documentary, and short films for this milestone year. One particular highlight was the world premiere of "HAPPY AS LARRY" a film whose screenplay was a semifinalist in last year's DIFF Screenwriting Competition, exemplifying the festival's role in nurturing cinematic art from concept to completion.
The festival also featured a music and film panel with Abraham Alexander, who was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "SING SING," which played at DIFF in 2024.
The Salamander King Cast Dallas International Film Festival
A Well-Executed Celebration
The overall experience at the Dallas International Film Festival was nothing short of exceptional. A true celebration of cinema, Texas, and storytelling. The red carpet management was impressive, and the volunteer staff was extremely helpful throughout the event. The week flew by, leaving me eagerly anticipating next year's festival.
Matter of Time Cast looking crispy with Pit Viper Sunglasses
DIFF continues to build community and raise awareness of film as the world's most approachable and inclusive art form through its year-round screenings, film series, educational programs, and community partnerships. Its commitment to celebrating films and their impact on society, honoring filmmakers, providing leadership in film education, and recognizing excellence in the art of film makes it a cornerstone of Dallas's cultural landscape.
For film lovers seeking to discover gems of cinema and connect with the global filmmaking community, DIFF remains an essential destination that delivers a truly unforgettable experience year after year.
Check out my Dallas International Film Festival coverage of the Matter Of Time World Premiere Video on YouTube