SIFF 2025 Preview: Exploration Fueled by Film
The 51st Annual The Seattle International Film Festival
Various Theatres Across Seattle
May 15-25, 2025
On April 14, Seattle aerospace company Blue Origin jettisoned an intrepid squad of badass women into Earth’s outer orbit inside what is best described as a giant penis. We here at NadaMucho.com never like to be outdone. So, on April 22 (Earth Day), my colleague Tim Basaraba and I attended the 51st press launch for Seattle’s International Film Festival. After witnessing a glimpse of its stellar lineup, we’re ready for blastoff.
With 245 films, including more than 50 premieres, SIFF 2025 offers the perfect opportunity for adventure. Featuring films from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin-speaking countries, SIFF allows us to view the world through diverse perspectives. While the language of cinema is universal, international filmmakers infuse their work with culturally specific nuances. They share the same world we inhabit, but their realities are shaped by unique beliefs and values, enriching their cinematic expression. Experiencing these subtle or striking differences is a journey I encourage everyone to take.
The festival also reflects the cultural tensions that dominate our news feeds. SIFF has always aimed to elevate marginalized voices, and as Artistic Director Beth Barrett highlighted during the launch, this mission feels more crucial than ever. Regardless of your beliefs, there is wisdom in listening to the stories of those who lead different lives. This engagement encourages us to navigate the gray areas and provides opportunities for personal growth, even in disagreement. Art is a way to explore the world outside your own, and film is the best medium for that exploration.
At NadaMucho, we have confidence in the SIFF programming team to deliver a remarkable experience. While we may not adore every entry, we deeply appreciate the dedication and passion that goes into curating this expansive cinematic showcase. I’m particularly excited about a documentary exploring the music and culture of salsa, titled Salsa Lives. The premise of Amanda Kramer’s By Design is sure to pique anyone’s interest. I also hope to interview the director and star of Fucktoys, Annapurna Sriram. Plus, Tim and I are looking forward to the delightfully cheeky animated feature Spermageddon.
Even if the Blue Origin crew is catching hell for their heroic deeds, it doesn’t change the fact that they looked damn good gettin’ high. That’s the kind of cavalier spirit Tim and I will take with us to this year’s SIFF. Because no matter your interests, experiences or personal net worth, SIFF 2025 is crafted to take you on an adventure into the unfamiliar, to realms you’ve yet to explore and sights you’ve never seen. And once you’ve arrived, you may discover that grand notions such as celebrity and extraterrestrial flight are simply a state of mind.