Full Breakdown
Animation Is Film Festival 2025: A Celebration of Animation
9/18/2025, 11:05:19 AM
Festival Overview and Highlights
The Animation Is Film (AIF) Festival is set to return for its eighth edition, taking place from October 17 to 19, 2025, at the TCL Chinese Theatres in Hollywood. This year's lineup features a diverse array of theatrical premieres, special events, panels, and short film collections. The festival will open with the West Coast Premiere of "Scarlet," directed by Mamoru Hosoda and produced by Studio Chizu, while the centerpiece will be the Los Angeles Premiere of "Arco," the debut feature from Ugo Bienvenu, distributed by Neon. The closing night will showcase the U.S. premiere of "Little Amélie or the Character of Rain," co-directed by Maïlys Vallade and Liane-Cho Han.
In addition to these highlights, the festival will present the U.S. premiere of "Nobody," recognized as the highest-grossing 2D animated film in China’s history, and "I Am Frankelda," featuring a never-before-seen cut. AIF will also celebrate the 13th anniversary of Laika’s "ParaNorman," including a remastered 3D print and a new short titled "ParaNorman: The Thrifting," starring Anna Kendrick and Finn Wolfhard.
Special Events and Screenings
The festival will feature work-in-progress screenings of Walt Disney Animation's "Zootopia 2" and several shorts programs, including the "Best Of Annecy" in partnership with Women In Animation (WIA). AIF aims to champion animation as a cinematic art form, curating critically acclaimed international features and shorts that resonate with audiences and critics alike.
Matt Kaszanek, Director of Animation Is Film, expressed pride in the festival's role as a platform for essential films on their journey to end-of-year awards and best-of lists. He emphasized that the carefully curated lineup celebrates both new works from animation legends and feature film debuts.
Official Statements & Responses
“It’s with enormous pride that AIF returns in its role as the first opportunity for Los Angeles to experience these essential films on their journey to end-of-year awards and Best-of lists,” said Matt Kaszanek. He further noted, “This carefully curated lineup — featuring new works from animation legends alongside feature film debuts — is a celebration of the medium. It’s wonderful to be home.”
Criticism & Opposition
While the festival has garnered significant attention for its lineup, some critics argue that the focus on established directors may overshadow emerging talent. They suggest that more opportunities should be provided for lesser-known filmmakers to showcase their work.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There are no significant discrepancies reported regarding the festival's details, but some sources mention additional films and events that may not be included in every report. This highlights the evolving nature of festival programming as final selections are confirmed closer to the event date.
What's Next
As the festival approaches, anticipation builds for the various premieres and special screenings. The AIF continues to engage with audiences and industry professionals, reinforcing its commitment to celebrating animation as a vital art form. The festival's success may influence future programming and partnerships, particularly with organizations like Women In Animation and international film festivals.
