Vancouver Island Short Film Festival 2025

Three Days That Will Change Your Perspective

You’ve heard whispers of a cinematic secret that only Nanaimo insiders know. Each spring, the city transforms into a nexus of suspense and revelation—where every short film is a mystery waiting to be solved. From May 1 to 3, 2025, the 20th Annual Vancouver Island Short Film Festival (VISFF) unfolds at the historic Malaspina Theatre, promising unexpected twists in comedy, horror, animation and beyond. Read on—and discover how to unlock the full festival experience.

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Event Highlights

20th Anniversary Showcase (May 1)

A special gala of past Goldie winners and premieres

Shorts Program 1 (May 2)

Global narratives from Hungary, Iran, Canada and more

Youth Showcase (May 3, 1 p.m.)

Fresh voices directed by filmmakers under 18

Shorts Program 2 (May 3)

Final evening of local BC shorts and international gems

Live & Online

All screenings at Malaspina Theatre (900 Fifth St, Nanaimo) plus live‑streaming option

Date & Venue

When: May 1–3, 2025
Where: Malaspina Theatre, Vancouver Island University, Nanaimo, BC V9R 5S5
Facilities: 290‑seat theatre with accessible seating, professional projection/sound, lobby bar and concessions
Getting There: Five‑minute walk from the downtown ferry terminal; on‑site VIU parking and nearby public lots

Program Lineup

Date	Details
Thursday, May 1 – 20th Anniversary Showcase	“Suspend Your Disbelief,” “Android 207,” “Crazy Love” and more celebrated shorts
Friday, May 2 – Shorts Program 1	“Répercuté” (ON), “Shoes and Hooves” (Hungary), “Holy Heavêness” (Iran) and a tapestry of global storytelling
Saturday, May 3	• 1 p.m.: Youth Showcase – “Tin God,” “A Twilight Heist” and 15 other emerging‑artist films • Evening: Shorts Program 2 – “Tiny” (BC), “Zoé” (QC), “Lichtblick” (Germany) and more

Date

Details

Thursday, May 1 – 20th Anniversary Showcase

“Suspend Your Disbelief,” “Android 207,” “Crazy Love” and more celebrated shorts

Friday, May 2 – Shorts Program 1

“Répercuté” (ON), “Shoes and Hooves” (Hungary), “Holy Heavêness” (Iran) and a tapestry of global storytelling

Saturday, May 3

• 1 p.m.: Youth Showcase – “Tin God,” “A Twilight Heist” and 15 other emerging‑artist films • Evening: Shorts Program 2 – “Tiny” (BC), “Zoé” (QC), “Lichtblick” (Germany) and more

Disclaimer

Vanislander provides information for general reference only. We do not assume responsibility for any changes, cancellations, or modifications made by third parties. For the most up-to-date details, please refer to the official websites or social media channels of the respective organizers or businesses.

Tickets & Registration

Full Festival Pass

All programs + priority seating

Pick your favourite screenings

Purchase

Secure your spot now at the VISFF ticket page

Pro Tip

Early‑bird passes sell out fast—book well in advance.

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Travel & Accommodation

Where to Stay
• Coast Bastion Hotel: Waterfront locale in Nanaimo’s Arts & Harbourfront district, on‑site dining and pet‑friendly rooms
• VIU Summer Residences: Budget‑friendly campus dorms within walking distance of Malaspina Theatre
Getting Around
• Shuttles: Check local operators for festival‑day service between ferry and campus.
• Cycling & Walking: Explore Nanaimo’s compact downtown and scenic waterfront paths.

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Local Attractions & Things to Do

• The Bastion: Nanaimo’s 1853 Hudson’s Bay Company blockhouse, now part of Nanaimo Museum and open in summer
• Harbourfront Walkway: A panoramic trail along Newcastle Channel—perfect for a pre‑screening stroll
• Old City Quarter: Historic Bastion Square shops, cafés and artisan boutiques
• Maffeo Sutton Park: Green waterfront oasis with picnic spots and water views

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Practical Tips & FAQs

What to Bring

Food & Drink

Accessibility

Health & Safety

Contact

For inquiries, visit www.visff.com

Don’t miss this milestone 20th edition of VISFF—where each short film offers a new perspective. Book your Festival Pass or individual tickets today, plan your stay in Nanaimo, and prepare for three days of unforgettable short‑form cinema. See you at the Malaspina Theatre, May 1–3, 2025!

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