Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival Returns for Its 18th Year With Over 80 Films Celebrating AANHPI Voices
The Philadelphia Asian American Film Festival (PAAFF) returns for its 18th year from November 6–16, 2025, bringing a bold and visionary program of films, performances, and events that spotlight the creativity and complexity of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) voices.
Now recognized as one of the nation’s most influential platforms for AANHPI cinema, this year’s festival expands its reach with five world premieres, three international premieres, two North American premieres, five U.S. premieres, seven East Coast premieres, and 48 Philadelphia premieres. Across narrative features, documentaries, and short film showcases, PAAFF 2025 continues to challenge perspectives, amplify underrepresented stories, and celebrate the limitless possibilities of global Asian storytelling.
The 2025–26 edition of PAAFF invites audiences to “explore new worlds” through film — from surreal visions to grounded community narratives. The programming highlights include a rich mix of LGBTQ+, NHPI, Southeast Asian, and Palestinian stories, offering a dynamic cross-section of the global Asian experience.
The festival’s mission extends beyond representation, aiming to “leap beyond the boundaries of identity” and into the universal themes of imagination, resilience, and hope. Each film, discussion, and live event reflects how the AANHPI community continues to innovate within both independent cinema and mainstream storytelling.
“This year’s lineup is an incredible reflection of where Asian American filmmaking stands today,” said the PAAFF programming team. “We’re not only telling our stories — we’re redefining genres, experimenting with form, and expanding what’s possible on screen.”
Opening Night – November 6
“Third Act” (7:00 PM at Moore College of Art & Design)
The festival kicks off with its highly anticipated Opening Night screening, followed by a reception celebrating the filmmakers and the start of ten days of cinema, creativity, and community.
Barnes First Friday – November 7
“Pooja, Sir” – A special collaboration with The Barnes Foundation, blending art, film, and conversation.
Saturday, November 8 – Culture and Community Day
The weekend brings a full slate of screenings and events, including the Kieu Chinh Storyteller Legacy Award Presentation, honoring the legendary Vietnamese-American actress and trailblazer. That evening, the AANHPI Block Party at Gather unites culture, cuisine, and music in a vibrant outdoor celebration.
November 9–13 – Short Film Showcases and Experimental Art
From “Across Oceans, Within Us” to “Maps of Pain” and “Living a Dream,” audiences can explore dozens of shorts that highlight family, migration, memory, and resilience. The Contemporary Experimental Video Art Exhibition also returns, hosted at 12G Gallery, pushing the boundaries of visual storytelling.
Closing Weekend – November 14–16
Highlights include “The Botanist,” the high-energy Club Otherworld Closing Weekend Party, and centerpiece screenings of “Mouse” and “Universal Language.”
The festival concludes on a poignant note with the Closing Night film “The Rose: Come Back to Me” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, preceded by a Storyteller Spotlight with Rachel Kondo, one of today’s most exciting emerging voices.
Founded in 2008, the Philadelphia Asian American Film Foundation (PAAFF) — formerly known as Philadelphia Asian American Film & Filmmakers — is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to supporting and highlighting the experiences of the Asian and Pacific Islander diaspora. Through film screenings, panels, culinary events, performances, and educational workshops, PAAFF provides a vital platform for community storytelling year-round.
The festival continues to partner with institutions across the city, including The Barnes Foundation, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and The Rosenbach, solidifying its reputation as a cultural cornerstone in Philadelphia’s arts landscape.
