SIFF at 50 A Seattle film buff’s guide to the local festival

Since opening in 1976, with a handful of films in just one theater, the Seattle International Film Festival has taken on a vital role for local filmmakers and film lovers.

As it celebrates its 50th anniversary this year (its founders skipped over the 13th edition in 1988 for superstitious reasons), we take a look back at how it’s changed over the years — from ticket prices to audience size — and how to make the most of the festival this month.

SIFF at 50

SIFF 2024 celebrates 50 years of Seattle’s homegrown film festival

As Seattle International Film Festival celebrates its 50th anniversary, it’s still playing a vital role for both filmmakers and audiences.

Moira Macdonald’s guide to what’s showing at this year’s SIFF

Here are some intriguing possibilities among the 261 films from 84 countries screening at SIFF this year.

SIFF at 50: How it’s changed, by the numbers

Seattle International Film Festival began in 1976, in one theater. Here’s a look at how SIFF compares, then and now, by the numbers.

12 SIFF films that dazzled critics Moira Macdonald and John Hartl

Only two people have held the title of Seattle Times movie critic over the past half century. Here are the SIFF films that stood out for critics Moira Macdonald and John Hartl.

How to navigate SIFF 2024

If you’re new to navigating Seattle International Film Festival, here’s a useful FAQ.

An enthralling Rainier Beer doc and other PNW films to soak up at SIFF

Here are the movies filmed in or set in the Pacific Northwest that you’ll want to see at SIFF.