The California Film Institute (CAFILM) is a non-profit organization dedicated to advancing film and media arts through acclaimed programs like the MILL VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL and DOCLANDS Documentary Film Festival.
CAFILM EDUCATION provides students of all ages with opportunities to learn about the world through the art of film and filmmaking, cultivation of the next generation of film lovers and filmmakers.
Our premier independent theater, the CHRISTOPHER B. SMITH RAFAEL FILM CENTER, engages over 275,000 guests annually with compelling cinema and storytelling on pressing social, environmental, and cultural issues. Additionally, CAFILM now owns and operates the SEQUOIA CINEMA, reinforcing our commitment to preserving cinematic heritage and access to fine films locally.
The organization relies on the generosity of its community; the invaluable support from our sponsors, foundations, donors, and members ensures our ability to continue expanding and sustaining our vital programs. Join us in celebrating, exploring, and championing the art of film.
Photo © Drew Altizer Photography
CHRISTOPHER B. SMITH RAFAEL FILM CENTER
This beautifully restored, state-of-the-art, three-screen theater is one of few non-profit theaters in the United States. The venue exhibits independent documentary and narrative films, classics, retrospectives, features, international works and hosts special events with filmmakers from around the world year-round. The Film Center serves approximately 200,000 patrons annually.
Photo © Anita Su
CAFILM EDUCATION
Through innovative educational programs, 100 free annual screenings for school groups and their families, filmmaking workshops and a year-long cinema appreciation curriculum, CAFILM Education touches the lives of over 6,500 children annually through a broad range of activities, ranging from Q&A sessions with top international filmmakers to hands-on seminars with industry professionals CAFILM Education promotes tolerance and a sophisticated world view by expanding classroom topics across borders and disciplines.
Photo © Tommy Lau Photography
MILL VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL
Founded in 1978 by California Film Institute director Mark Fishkin, the 11-day festival is held every October, screening over 200 innovative US and international films for over 60,000 film lovers. MVFF has established an impressive track record for launching new films and new filmmakers, and has earned a reputation as a filmmakers’ festival by offering a high-profile, prestigious, non-competitive environment for celebrating the best in independent and world cinema. The Mill Valley Film Festival is consistently rated one of the top film festivals in the nation.
Photo © Tommy Lau Photography
DOCLANDS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL
DocLands’ film slate of recently completed films is non-competitive and non-juried, with one overall Audience Choice Award. Dedicated to building connections and partnerships to invigorate the business and art of nonfiction filmmaking, DocLands aims to build an active, inclusive, and fully supportive community around documentary film through public screenings, engaged conversations, and grassroots networking and pitching events. It showcases documentary film with a diversity of content, within three main programming sections: Art of Impact, The Great Outdoors, and WonderLands.
THE CALIFORNIA FILM INSTITUTE is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization which relies on the generosity of its community to thrive.
Here are a few ways that you can support CAFILM:
Individual Giving
Become a Member
Corporate Sponsorship
Foundation Support
You can make a secure donation online by clicking on the donate button below or by contacting Liana Bender, Foundation and Individual Giving Director, at [email protected] or (415) 526-5838.
All donations to the California Film Institute are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.
