Fall in Love with French Cinema at the Sacramento French Film Festival

Ready to add a little je ne sais quoi to your summer? The Sacramento French Film Festival (SFFF) is back, celebrating all things French cinema and culture! This beloved annual event turns Sacramento into a little slice of Paris, showcasing the best contemporary French films alongside timeless classics.

The festival offers moviegoers a rare chance to experience films you won’t see anywhere else — all with English subtitles, so no need to brush up on your high school French!

French Film Festival 2026 Schedule

What Makes SFFF So Special?

Incredible Film Lineup — From dark thrillers to laugh-out-loud comedies, the carefully curated selection offers something for every cinephile.


Cultural Celebration — Beyond the movies, the festival embraces French art, music, and style, making every screening feel like a cultural event.

Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to French films, the Sacramento French Film Festival is your ticket to an unforgettable cinematic adventure.

Kick Off Party June 12, 2026

Tower Theatre
2508 Land Park Dr
Sacramento, CA 95818

Shorts

A Cinematic Journey: Sacramento French Film Festival Shorts

Lights, camera, action! Film lovers, rejoice—the Sacramento French Film Festival is back with an entire afternoon dedicated to the art of short films. On Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the iconic Tower Theatre, audiences will experience a captivating selection of French shorts, each offering a unique glimpse into the magic of cinema. Whether you’re a silent film aficionado, a fan of emerging talent, or eager to see the latest César-nominated works, this event has something for everyone.

The Lineup: A Celebration of French Cinema

1:00 PM – SILENT-ERA BRATS (57 min) Experience a one-of-a-kind cinéma concert as organist Dave Moreno provides a live score to a collection of feminist silent comedies from the 1910s. Curated by Chris Tafoya, this program showcases early comedic gems that were ahead of their time. A post-screening Q&A with Tafoya will dive deeper into these fascinating films.
3:00 PM – SHORTCUTS TO THE OSCARS (90 min) Discover the early works of renowned French directors who later earned Oscar nominations for their feature films. This program is a must-see for cinephiles who love tracing a director’s artistic journey. Stick around for a Q&A with Kevin Elstob, a.k.a. Le Professeur, who will share insights on these visionary filmmakers.
5:30 PM – 2025 CÉSAR NOMINATED SHORTS: ANIMATION & LIVE ACTION (114 min) An exclusive screening of this year’s César Award-nominated short films in both animation and live-action categories. Witness the best of contemporary French cinema and vote for your favorite—because your opinion matters!

Tickets & Passes

Single tickets are available for each screening, or grab a Winter Shorts Fest Pass for the full experience.
• Silent-Era Brats / Shortcuts to the Oscars: $14 adults | $12 discount (students, seniors 62+, Alliance Française & film fest members)
• 2025 César Nominated Shorts: $16 adults | $14 discount
• Winter Shorts Fest Pass: $30 for all three screenings

The Venue: Tower Theatre
2508 Land Park Dr, Sacramento, 95818
A beloved landmark, the Tower Theatre provides the perfect setting for a day of cinematic excellence. Support local cinema by grabbing a snack from the concession stand, and enjoy free parking in the adjacent lot and nearby streets. The venue is ADA-compliant—if you need special accommodations, just reach out to the festival team.

Why You Shouldn’t Miss It
The Sacramento French Film Festival’s Shorts event is more than just a film screening—it’s a deep dive into French storytelling, artistry, and innovation. Whether you come for the silent comedies, the Oscar-nominated beginnings, or the latest award-worthy shorts, you’re in for an unforgettable cinematic journey.

Grab your tickets, mark your calendar, and immerse yourself in the best of French short films. À bientôt at the festival!

Find more at Sacramento Arts, Music, Dance, Theatre

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If you love films that surprise, challenge, and delight, mark your calendar for one of Northern California’s most exciting new cultural events: the NorCal Short Film Festival, coming to Folsom February 27 – March 1.

This three-day cinematic celebration highlights the vibrant creativity behind short-form storytelling — a medium where bold ideas and fresh voices find their perfect home. Whether you’re a film fan searching for something unique, a local looking for a memorable weekend, or someone who just appreciates good storytelling, this festival promises something special.

A Festival Built for Discovery

Held at the sleek and comfortable Palladio Luxe Theatres right in the heart of Folsom, the NorCal Short Film Festival brings together an eclectic mix of shorts — from laugh-out-loud comedies and immersive dramas to eye-opening documentaries and imaginative animation.

Each screening block runs about 60–90 minutes and features three to five films grouped by theme, making it easy to dive into a variety of styles and stories in one sitting. It’s like a cinematic sampler platter, curated to keep you intrigued from start to finish.

And don’t expect a stuffy, silent theater experience. The festival vibe is lively and social — with red-carpet moments at the Opening Night Gala, Q&A sessions with filmmakers, and the chance to mingle with creatives and fellow film lovers throughout the weekend.

Why You Should Go

Here’s what makes this festival stand out:

Explore fresh perspectives: Discover talented filmmakers from Northern California and beyond, including emerging voices you won’t see at mainstream events.

Flexible ways to experience it: Grab an All Access Pass to enjoy every screening block, plus exclusive perks like early seating and festival swag, or pick individual tickets to curate your own schedule.

Unforgettable setting: Luxe theaters with premium sound, plush seating, and full food and beverage service make every screening feel like an event.

Connect with the creative community: From behind-the-scenes forums to lively receptions, it’s as much about connection as it is about cinema.

Make It a Weekend to Remember

Whether you’re planning a fun outing with friends, a date night that’s off the beaten path, or a cultural weekend exploring local arts, the Folsom Short Film Festival adds a burst of creativity to your calendar. Film lovers, casual viewers, and curious minds alike are sure to walk away inspired — and maybe even with a few new favorites to revisit.

For tickets, schedules, and festival info, visit norcalshortfilmfest.org and get ready to see small films with big stories.

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Sacramento Jewish Film Festival: A Celebration of Story, Culture, and Cinema

Each year Sacramento becomes a hub for powerful storytelling and cinematic exploration with the Sacramento Jewish Film Festival (SJFF) — a unique cultural event that highlights films reflecting Jewish life, history, and identity from around the world. Presented by the Jewish Federation of the Sacramento Region, this festival brings audiences together to experience thought-provoking, humorous, moving, and inspiring films in a range of formats and styles. 

A Festival With Heart and Vision

The Sacramento Jewish Film Festival showcases a curated selection of films that explore the richness and diversity of Jewish experiences. These movies — including feature films, documentaries, and shorts — come from international and independent filmmakers, offering perspectives that resonate far beyond any single community. The goal is to offer stories that are engaging, educational, and emotionally rich, encouraging meaningful conversation and connection among viewers. 

Traditionally hosted at the historic Crest Theatre in downtown Sacramento, the festival combines both in-theater screenings and a digital streaming component, allowing audiences to enjoy films on the big screen and from home. The Crest Theatre’s beautiful vintage interiors provide an ideal backdrop for sharing cinematic experiences that range from poignant and introspective to lighthearted and funny. 

Films That Inspire and Connect

Over the course of its run, the festival typically offers:
• In-theater showings of selected films during a concentrated block of days. 
• Streaming access to a broader lineup, making it easy to watch from anywhere. 
• Special events such as discussions with filmmakers, community conversations, and opportunities to engage with the artists behind the films. 

This hybrid model, mixing live and virtual participation, makes the festival accessible to a wide audience — from passionate cinephiles to casual viewers curious about world cinema and cultural narratives.

Why It Matters

The Sacramento Jewish Film Festival does more than screen movies — it builds bridges across communities. By presenting films that explore identity, heritage, history, and universal themes of resilience and joy, the festival fosters empathy and understanding. It’s a cultural highlight of the region’s arts calendar and a celebration of cinema’s power to connect us. 

Last Year’s Event

This year’s festival will be hybrid, offering the best of both worlds:
10 films will be screened in person at The Crest Theatre in Downtown Sacramento—experience the magic of cinema on the big screen, surrounded by fellow film lovers.

14 films will be available for streaming—enjoy the festival from the comfort of your home, anywhere, anytime.

A Film Lineup That Inspires, Educates & Entertains

From heartwarming comedies to powerful dramas and eye-opening documentaries, the Sacramento Jewish Film Festival presents films that entertain, provoke thought, and spark meaningful conversations. Audiences can also engage in live Zoom chats with filmmakers, gaining insight into the creative process and stories behind the films.

Expect stories that delve into history, celebrate identity, explore resilience, and reflect the global Jewish experience. Whether you’re watching a lighthearted family film or a thought-provoking documentary, this festival offers something for everyone.

Why You Should Attend

A Unique Cinematic Experience – Discover extraordinary films from all over the world.

In-Person & Virtual Options – Whether you prefer the energy of a live screening or the convenience of streaming, the choice is yours!

Engage with Filmmakers – Gain behind-the-scenes insights through live Zoom chats.

A Celebration of Jewish Heritage & Culture – Experience the diversity and depth of Jewish storytelling.

The Sacramento Jewish Film Festival isn’t just about watching films—it’s about experiencing stories that inspire, educate, and connect us all.
Festival Dates: February 20 – March 9

In-Person Screenings: The Crest Theatre, Downtown Sacramento

Streaming: Available via our online portal
Tickets & Festival Passes Available Now!

Join us for a cinematic journey that celebrates Jewish culture, resilience, and storytelling!

Find more at Sacramento Film

Listed in: Sacramento Events, Things to do in Sacramento

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Tower Theatre is celebrating the Holidays on the Big Screen

Saturday, November 29 – The Christmas Story (Pajama Party)
Wednesday, December 3 – Love Actually
Saturday, December 6 – The Polar Express (Pajama Party)
Wednesday, December 10 – It’s a Wonderful Life
Saturday, December 13 – Elf (Pajama Party)
Saturday, December 20 – Dr. Seuss the Grinch
Monday, December 22 – White Christmas

Check the Website for tickets & times

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THE TOWER THEATRE BY ANGELIKA
2508 Land Park Dr.
Sacramento, California 95818
(916) 442-0985

Listed in: Sacramento Events, Things to do in Sacramento

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Get ready to step back into the magical corridors of Hogwarts as the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera presents “Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets in Concert” at the SAFE Credit Union Performing Arts Center. On October 4th and 5th, 2024, audiences will experience the second year of Harry’s adventures in a way that’s both nostalgic and new.

The film, projected in high-definition, will be accompanied by the live performance of John Williams’ enchanting score. Imagine the thrill of seeing Harry, Ron, and Hermione navigate the mysteries of the Chamber of Secrets, all while the Sacramento Philharmonic & Opera brings the soundtrack to life. This isn’t just watching a movie; it’s immersing yourself in the world of magic, where every note played enhances the emotion, tension, and wonder of the story.

From the haunting beauty of the Hogwarts theme to the adrenaline-pumping sequences like the Quidditch match or the confrontation with the Basilisk, the live orchestra adds a layer of depth that makes you feel like you’re part of the story. Whether you’re a die-hard Potterhead or new to the series, this concert promises an unforgettable experience that celebrates the magic of cinema and music combined.

Find more at Sacramento Film, Music

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The Oak Park Black Film Festival is back for its fourth year, bringing a powerful celebration of African-American stories and history through the art of cinema. From October 7 to October 12, 2025, the historic Guild Theater in Oak Park, Sacramento, will be the hub of this vibrant event, showcasing a diverse lineup of independent features, documentaries, and short films by African-American filmmakers.

Movies for 2025

• Soul of the City
• The Late Night Creep
• Don’t Hang Up
• Outdoor School
• Wait Until Tomorrow
• Ado
• Laundry
• Untold Secrets: The Flip Side
• Ohio Texas Remix
• Proceed and Be Bold!
• The ReWrite
• Knocking on The Door: Two Cities, Two Historic Campaign
• Picture Perfect
• Goodnight, My Love
• Ways to Fly
• Withered
• Zeke
• Jules
• Can You Stand The Rain
• Love Offside

Experience the Best of African-American Cinema

This year’s festival promises an unforgettable experience with a carefully curated selection of films that highlight the richness of African-American culture, history, and storytelling. Attendees will have the opportunity to view groundbreaking works, engage in thought-provoking panel discussions, and participate in exclusive events designed to celebrate and support African-American filmmakers.
Event Details
• Dates: October 7-12, 2025
• Location: Guild Theater, 2828 35th St, Sacramento, CA 95817

Highlights of the Festival

• Diverse Film Lineup: Enjoy a wide range of films, from powerful documentaries to captivating short films and innovative independent features.
• Panel Discussions: Participate in engaging discussions with filmmakers, actors, and industry experts who will share insights and behind-the-scenes stories.
• Exclusive Events: Attend special events that provide unique networking opportunities and celebrate the achievements of African-American filmmakers.
• Local Talent Day: This year, the festival includes an additional day dedicated to films produced by local talent, offering a platform for emerging voices in the community.

Get Your Tickets Today

VIP Passes and Individual Day tickets are now on sale. Secure your spot to be a part of this extraordinary event that celebrates African-American voices and stories in cinema. Whether you’re a film enthusiast, a supporter of African-American culture, or someone looking to be inspired, the Oak Park Black Film Festival has something for everyone.

Join Us in Oak Park

Don’t miss this opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of African-American cinema. Join us at the Guild Theater from October 8-13, 2024, and be part of a festival that honors and amplifies the stories that shape our community.

Find more at Sacramento Film

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Get ready, film lovers! The California Capital International Documentary Film Festival is back for its third year, and it’s bigger than ever. As Sacramento’s only documentary film festival, this event is a must-attend for anyone who loves compelling storytelling, eye-opening narratives, and a deeper look into real-world issues.

This year’s festival will showcase 45 outstanding films from 12 different countries, proving that great stories know no borders. Whether you’re a fan of investigative journalism, heartfelt human interest pieces, or breathtaking cinematic journeys, there’s something for everyone in this carefully curated lineup.

Where’s it happening?
We’re keeping it local with screenings at three fantastic venues in Rancho Cordova:
• Two locations at City Hall
• One at the Rancho Cordova Youth Center
These spaces will bring together filmmakers, film enthusiasts, and the local community for an unforgettable weekend of storytelling and inspiration.

Don’t Miss the Opening Night Gala!
The festival kicks off with a fully catered Opening Night Gala at Rancho Cordova City Hall. It’s the place to be, featuring appearances by public figures, city officials, political leaders, and—of course—the talented filmmakers behind this year’s films. It’s an incredible night of celebration, networking, and cinematic brilliance!

New This Year: A Virtual Festival Option!
Can’t make it in person? No worries! This year, we’re offering a $30 virtual pass, giving you unlimited access to films online from March 7 to March 31. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the festival from home, at your own pace.

Get the Ultimate Experience!
For those who want it all, our All-Access Pass includes:

Unlimited in-person screenings

A virtual pass for online access

Exclusive festival merchandise

This is your chance to dive into some of the most thought-provoking, inspiring, and beautifully crafted documentaries of the year.

A huge thank you to the City of Rancho Cordova and our incredible sponsors for making this festival possible. We can’t wait to see you there—get ready to experience the power of documentary film!

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Lights, Camera, Sacramento!

In the heart of California’s capital, where the streets are paved with dreams and the air buzzes with creativity, “A Place Called Sacramento” is not just an event; it’s a phenomenon. Every year, the Crest Theatre transforms into a hub of cinematic excitement, showcasing the raw talent of Sacramento’s filmmakers. This year, marking its 24th annual red-carpet film premiere, the event promises to be bigger, brighter, and more dazzling than ever before.

Imagine this: you, dressed to the nines, walking the red carpet, not just as a spectator but as part of the community that brings these stories to life. The films, all original, all local, are the stars of the show, but the real magic happens in the interactions, the networking, and the shared passion for storytelling. This isn’t just about watching movies; it’s about being part of a movement where every ticket sold supports Access Sacramento, fueling the local film scene. So, mark your calendars for October 11th, because in Sacramento, every film premiere is a celebration of community, creativity, and the undying spirit of cinema.

Find more at Sacramento Film

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As the lights dim at the Palladio 16 Cinema this March 10th, audiences will be transported to the picturesque landscapes of Ireland with the screening of “The Quiet Man.” This film, a jewel in the crown of classic Hollywood, is more than just a movie; it’s a love letter to Ireland, to enduring romance, and to the golden age of cinema.

Directed by John Ford, a maestro of storytelling, and starring the formidable duo of John Wayne and Maureen O’Hara, “The Quiet Man” is a tale that transcends time. Wayne’s portrayal of Sean Thornton, a former American boxer seeking peace in his ancestral Irish village, and O’Hara’s fiery Mary Kate Danaher, combine to create a love story that is as much about passion as it is about cultural clashes and the pursuit of happiness.

The film’s accolades are many, including an Academy Award for Best Director, Ford’s fourth, and another for Best Cinematography, thanks to Winton Hoch’s breathtaking visuals. But beyond its awards, “The Quiet Man” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling, with its blend of humor, drama, and romance set against the lush greenery of Ireland.

Join us as we celebrate this cinematic classic, a film that has not only been preserved in the National Film Registry for being “culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant” but also continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm and wit. Whether it’s your first viewing or your fiftieth, “The Quiet Man” promises an evening of enchantment and nostalgia at the Palladio 16 Cinema.

Presented by Flashback Cinema and Cinema West

Palladio 16 Cinema
240 Palladio Pkwy
Folsom, CA 95630

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