Sign Up For E-News
GOOD NEWS
"What an incredible experience this year! I think the festival gets better and better each time I attend. I love being able to guide young writers on their journey. It’s an absolute privilege. And hopefully one day soon, we’ll see some of their names in theater marquee lights! Thank you so much for having me and Maria, and for doing all that you do to make the festival happen! It truly is cinema in paradise."
"I was honored to have my short film SAVERIO selected as a finalist at the Bahamas International Film Festival. Even from afar, BIFF stood out as a festival that champions strong, socially resonant storytelling and elevates filmmakers at every stage. Being included among such thoughtful, global work was truly meaningful, and I’m grateful to the programming team for recognizing SAVERIO and the difficult subject matter it explores." Ellen Ancui
"As a screenwriter, it is rare to find a festival that truly understands the writing process its solitude, its uncertainty, and its need for time, trust, and thoughtful guidance. The Bahamas International Film Festival offers exactly that. My experience at BIFF, particularly through the Screenwriting Residency, was deeply meaningful and creatively transformative. This was not a rushed program built around deadlines or surface-level feedback. Instead, it provided space real space to think, to question, and to listen to the story more honestly. The one-on-one conversations, the openness to process, and the respect shown toward each writer’s voice made the experience feel personal and sincere. What stood out most was the genuine care behind the program. Leslie’s vision and leadership shape BIFF into something rare: a festival that values writers not only for what they produce, but for who they are in the middle of creating. Her presence, generosity, and attentiveness create an environment where writers feel seen, supported, and encouraged to take creative risks." Hakan Unal
We were so thrilled to be part of the festival. Our film, There’s Something I Have to Tell You, was shot on Eleuthera and screened there as well — such a beautiful full-circle moment. Thank you, Leslie, and thank you to the entire BIFF team!
What an incredible experience this year! I think the festival gets better and better each time I attend. I love being able to guide young writers on their journey. It’s an absolute privilege. And hopefully one day soon, we’ll see some of their names in theater marquee lights!
What an incredible experience! Tropical location, powerful films, and the loveliest of people! Thank you Leslie and the rest of the BIFF Team, we are humbled and proud to carry the Bahamas Laurel for our film BOUND and can’t wait to be back!
An incredible experience! One of the best festivals in the world. Thank you for selecting my TV script Start Over.
What a FANTASTIC festival through and through. Warm hospitality from Leslie Vanderpool and everyone at the fest. The films were outstanding. The panels discussions were extremely relevant and offered great insights into producing, collaboration, music, distribution and so much more. The fun vibe of the festival shone through even virtually. I look forward to being in the Bahamas in person for the next edition of the festival.
The Bahamas international film festival is truly wonderful. Leslie has great energy and makes all feel very welcome. The panels and films were all fantastic and even though the festival was virtual this year, Leslie found ways for the filmmakers to meet each other and share experiences and stories. Every effort was made to celebrate film and the filmmakers and connect all. I just can't wait to be able to go in person to a future festival. Highly recommend! Thanks Leslie and team for a great experience.
The Bahamas Int'l Film Festival is, hands down, the best film festival I've ever attended! Its first week is dedicated to the Filmmakers. Its second week (in which I participated in 2018) is dedicated to the Screenwriters with the BIFF Screenwriters Residency Program. Not only are the FINALISTS (not just the winner!) sponsored in their travel and lodging, you are paired with serious industry professionals. You have one on one meetings, you have workshops and panels. You have time with your fellow writers. You have time to sit on the beach with yours script mulling over notes and inspirations. You also get to see the Best of the Best from the Films week, and meet many of those filmmakers! The best value for your entry fees I've encountered. You've invested in your writing, BIFF invests in you.
The BIFF Screenwriter's Residency Program is a game changer. 5 aspiring writers, 5 A-List Producers & Writers on an island with the sole focus of taking the screenwriter's work to the next level. Rarely do writers get to experience such an in-depth program. A must for any serious and aspiring screenwriter.