The New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF), established in 1997 by Eric Beckman and Emily Shapiro, is North America’s largest film festival dedicated to young audiences. An Oscar®-qualifying event, it presents a curated selection of thoughtful, provocative, and intelligent films for children and teens aged 3 to 18.
Each March, NYICFF showcases approximately 100 short and feature-length films, chosen from around 2,500 international submissions. The festival features animated, live-action, and experimental works from across the globe. Complementing its screenings are filmmaker Q&As, workshops, parties, and retrospective programs, providing an engaging experience for children, families, and educators.
NYICFF emphasizes diversity and inclusion, prioritizing films by and about individuals from historically underrepresented communities. Its mission extends beyond entertainment, using cinema to help young audiences explore complex narratives and connect with nuanced art.
In addition to the annual festival, NYICFF offers year-round programming, including:
NYICFF is widely recognized for presenting critically acclaimed films. Notable premieres include:
The festival serves as a gateway to the Oscars®, with winners of its juried prizes eligible for consideration in the Best Animated Short and Best Live Action Short categories.
The festival’s esteemed jury includes industry luminaries, from directors to actors, ensuring the awarded films reflect artistic and narrative excellence. NYICFF’s emphasis on diverse storytelling nurtures underrepresented voices, paving the way for a more inclusive film industry.
NYICFF’s educational initiatives, including filmmaking workshops and interactive sessions, inspire children to explore the world of filmmaking. Its touring program reaches communities nationwide, fostering a love for cinema beyond the New York City area.
Through its commitment to showcasing innovative and meaningful films, NYICFF champions stories that resonate universally, bridging cultural divides and cultivating empathy in young audiences.
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