Gasparilla International Film Festival (GIFF) Returns March 25-30 with Star-Studded Lineup, Premieres, and Special Events
The Gasparilla International Film Festival (GIFF), presented by Film Tampa Bay, returns for its 18th annual celebration of cinema from March 25th to March 30th, 2025. This year’s edition includes:
- 20+ feature films
- 75 short films
- 5 educational panels
- 4 parties
- High School Film Competition
- Over 50 filmmakers attending from around the globe
Opening Night Premiere: THE FRIEND
GIFF kicks off with the Florida Premiere of THE FRIEND, directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, starring Bill Murray and Naomi Watts.
- Date: March 25, 2025
- Venue: Tampa Theatre
- Synopsis: A poignant story of love, friendship, grief, and healing about a writer who adopts the beloved Great Dane of his late friend and mentor.
Closing Night World Premiere: HIGH ROLLERS
Closing out the festival is the highly anticipated World Premiere of HIGH ROLLERS, the sequel to last year’s hit, Cash Out. Attending the event are:
- Director Randall Emmett
- John Travolta (two-time Academy Award Nominee)
- Quavo, Lukas Haas, and Natali Yura
- Date: March 30, 2025
- Venue: Tampa Theatre
Special Florida Premiere: ERIC LARUE
Acclaimed actor Michael Shannon (“99 Homes,” “The Shape of Water,” “Take Shelter”) will attend the Florida Premiere of his directorial debut, ERIC LARUE.
- Date: Friday, March 28, 2025
- Venue: AMC Westshore
- Starring: Judy Greer, Paul Sparks, Alexander Skarsgård
- Synopsis: A gripping drama following a mother navigating the aftermath of her teenage son’s tragic decision to murder three classmates.
About GIFF
Now in its 18th year, GIFF is one of the fastest-growing film festivals in the U.S., consistently recognized among the top 50 nationwide. Through year-round events, community initiatives, and cultural programming, GIFF continues to inspire, educate, and entertain, while cultivating Tampa Bay’s flourishing film industry.
Awards and Jury
Films at GIFF compete across various categories, judged by a distinguished panel of industry professionals. Awards include:
- Best Narrative Feature
- Best Documentary Feature
- Best Short Film
- Best College Film
- Best High School Film
- Best Florida Production
- Best Male Performance
- Best Female Performance
Notable Grand Jury Members include acclaimed industry leaders whose names will be highlighted closer to the festival.
GIFF Tickets & Information
- Festival Passes, Individual Tickets, Schedule, and Program Guide:
GasparillaFilmFestival.com
