2025 Buffalo International Film Festival Reveals Its Lineup

      Seventeen years ago, The Film Stage was established in Buffalo, New York. For residents in or around this Western New York city, the Buffalo International Film Festival should definitely be on your radar, overseen by Artistic Director John J. Fink, a long-time contributor to The Film Stage. This year's edition has now revealed its complete lineup for the 19th annual festival, which will showcase over 200 feature films, shorts, and episodic works from 37 countries, taking place from October 9 to 16. Screening locations in Buffalo include the historic North Park Theatre, Hallwalls Contemporary Arts Center, Buffalo Toronto Public Media (WNED Studios), and Burchfield Penney Arts Center.

      "This year, we’re thrilled to enhance our dedication to local filmmakers and the regional film industry, premiering Baristas Vs Billionaires, a quintessential WNY narrative about everyday heroes in green aprons, and we’ll conclude the festival with the significant Buffalo production The Panic. BIFF presents our community and visitors a chance to engage with filmmakers in a laid-back setting that’s open to the public, with free events and film premieres available for the cost of a typical movie ticket," stated Artistic Director John J. Fink.

      Executive Director Anna Scime added, “In addition to our lineup of fresh discoveries and beloved festival favorites, we’re eager to celebrate the work and legacy of Steven McKinley Henderson, a national treasure and longtime Buffalonian, who has had a distinguished and vibrant career on stage, screen, and in academia, mentoring generations of actors at the University at Buffalo. We are thankful to our partners, sponsors, and board for their ongoing support, and we’re excited to share this remarkable event as the hallmark of the 19th Annual Buffalo International Film Festival. We’re honored to present these fantastic films and artists to our audiences here in WNY/S. Ontario/Hodinöhšo:ni:h lands.”

      Tickets and passes for this year's edition are currently available to the general public at buffalofilm.org.

      **OPENING NIGHT GALA**

      *BARISTAS VS BILLIONAIRES*, directed by Mark Mori (USA)

      Baristas at Starbucks in Buffalo, NY organize against corporate exploitation, inciting a nationwide uprising among working-class Millennials and Gen Z as they confront a powerful billionaire CEO. This gripping narrative tells the story of a new generation of diverse young workers advocating for their right to unionize.

      **CLOSING NIGHT GALA**

      *THE PANIC*, directed by Daniel Adams (USA)

      Inspired by true events, this film delves into the Panic of 1907 in New York City, following a group of unscrupulous bankers and businessmen whose actions nearly led to the collapse of the American economy. Filmed in various Buffalo locations, it stars Cary Elwes, Colm Meaney, Cristiana Dell’Anna, Justin Chatwin, Anastasiya Mitrunen, and Malcolm McDowell.

      **BIFF LEGACY GALA**

      *EVERYDAY PEOPLE*, directed by Jim McKay (USA)

      The screening will be accompanied by a discussion and live Q&A with *Everyday People* star and BIFF 2025 Lifetime Achievement Award recipient Stephen McKinley Henderson.

      A community restaurant closure affects a number of employees who’ve devoted their lives to the establishment.

      Stephen McKinley Henderson was part of Juilliard’s first Group 1 Drama Division and later became a resident member of the Repertory Theatre of St. Louis from 1976 to 1981. He gained recognition as a character actor, often performing August Wilson's works. Henderson has received nominations for two Tony Awards and a Drama Desk Award, as well as a Virtuoso Award from the Santa Barbara International Film Festival for his role in *Fences*. In 2021, Vulture named him one of "The 32 Greatest Character Actors Working Today."

      **ARTHOUSE CENTERPIECE**

      *2x*, directed by Marie Losier

      *PEACHES GOES BANANAS*, directed by Marie Losier (France/Belgium)

      For 17 years, Marie Losier has captured the vibrant and provocative essence of Peaches (Merrill Nisker), the pioneering feminist queer icon. This intimate documentary offers a profound insight into the life of an inspiring, boundary-breaking artist.

      *BARKING IN THE DARK*, directed by Marie Losier (France)

      An exploration into the enigmatic and eclectic realm of The Residents, influential figures of the American music avant-garde for over five decades. This cult collective, known for its anonymity and iconic costumes, transformed the underground scene with innovative sound experiments and striking visuals.

      **CITY CENTERPIECE**

      *THE ACT OF DREAMING*, directed by John Maggio + Neha Shastry (USA)

      This documentary follows the journeys of three immigrant families recently arrived in Buffalo, illustrating their struggles to adapt: an Ecuadorian family navigating the complex immigration system post-crossing the southern border; a Syrian father trying to