The Children’s International Film Festival (CHIFF) returns for another joyful celebration of global storytelling, adventure, and imagination. Running from 7 June to 20 July 2025 across the winter school holidays, CHIFF invites young audiences and their families to experience the magic of cinema across Sydney and Melbourne.
With screenings at the Ritz Cinemas in Sydney and Classic, Lido and Cameo Cinemas in Melbourne, the 2025 program is packed with 23 titles including 19 Australian premieres and screenings of two classics from Tim Burton and Joe Dante.
Something new this year for this festival, CHIFF will also showcase a selection of films aimed at tweens aged 12 and over.
“From my experiences visiting children’s film festivals in Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and beyond, I’m always inspired by how films made sincerely for children have a universal power to entertain, move, and connect audiences of all ages,” said Thomas Caldwell, Artistic Director of CHIFF. “CHIFF is proud to champion this tradition by bringing together exciting, heart-warming, and imaginative stories for Australian audiences.”
This year Family Fun Day event will return with a special screening of Disney and Pixar’s Elio. his cosmic misadventure sees a misfit boy mistakenly identified as Earth’s leader by a sprawling intergalactic organisation. Tickets to Family Fun Day include popcorn on arrival and fun activities to make the morning memorable.
Highlights of this year’s festival include Bambi, a tale of life in the Woods. Hailing from France, the story follows the classic tale of Bambi after his mother is shot by hunters, Bambi must learn to mature under the guidance from his father. The live-action re-telling of this classic tale is sure to delight both young and old. The Proud Princess brings the classic Czech fairytale to a new generation with a brand new take. Hola Frida! is an animated re-telling of artist Frida Kahlo’s early life, and Thelma’s Perfect Birthday, follows a young penguin who finds friendship and confidence.
The two retro screenings celebrate the 40th anniversary of Joe Dante’s Explorers and Tim Burton’s Pee Wee’s Big Adventure, two classic films that both young and old still enjoy on the big screen.
There is so much more planned to entertain the kids these school holidays at the Children’s International Film Festival. You can view the entire program and book your tickets via the website here
