The Windsor International Film Festival (WIFF) has not only wrapped up its most successful edition to date but is already charging ahead with plans for next year. The 2025 festival, which concluded in early November, shattered its own downtown attendance records by selling a staggering 50,088 tickets, surpassing the 2024 total of just under 48,000.
A Festival Transformed into a Destination
Executive Director and Chief Programmer Vincent Georgie emphasized the festival's growing national appeal. "WIFF is a national festival that is in Windsor," said Georgie. "That’s the beauty on the tourism side. It’s become a destination." The event attracted film enthusiasts from across Ontario, Canada, and the United States, solidifying its reputation far beyond the city's borders. A testament to its vibrant atmosphere was the powerful audience reaction to films like the documentary You Are Here: A Come From Away Story, which reportedly moved a crowd of about 1,000 to both laughter, tears, and a standing ovation.
Record-Breaking Numbers and Year-Round Momentum
The 21st annual WIFF ran from October 24 to November 11, 2025, showcasing an impressive lineup of 231 feature films and 25 short films from 50 different countries. The program blended major Hollywood releases like After the Hunt starring Julia Roberts with smaller, impactful works such as the documentary Shamed by Windsor-native Matt Gallagher.
Georgie noted that the success was driven by both blockbuster screenings and consistent attendance throughout the week. "The huge screenings we had for opening night... and the closing film... those are very, very big attendance films," he said. "We saw real consistency throughout the week. The weekdays were actually quite full too." The festival's allure was further highlighted by one dedicated "record pass holder" who attended 83 films.
Looking Ahead to WIFF 2026
With the 2025 festival barely finished, organizers are not resting. Planning for WIFF 2026 is already underway, with a commitment to bringing major films and unique experiences to audiences. The momentum continues with year-round events, kicking off with an advance screening of Timothée Chalamet's new movie, Marty Supreme, later this month.
"Our team is already deep into WIFF 2026 planning, which will see us double-down on bringing both major films and major experiences to the festival and in our year-round events," Georgie stated. The festival's growing prestige was evident as it welcomed about 100 filmmakers from across Canada, alongside industry delegates, enhancing its role as a key hub for Canadian cinema.
The record-breaking attendance and expanding national profile confirm that the Windsor International Film Festival has firmly established itself as a cornerstone of Canada's cultural landscape, driving tourism and fostering a profound love for film in Southern Ontario.
