October 10–12, 2025 | AMC Theaters at The Grove, Los Angeles
The countdown is officially on. In just a few short weeks, the DaVinci International Film Festival (DIFF) returns for its 7th and most dynamic edition yet. From October 10–12, 2025, the pulse of independent cinema will come alive at AMC Theaters, The Grove in Los Angeles, and this is your personal invitation to be part of it all.
This isn’t just another film festival—it’s a three-day creative collision that fuses innovation, artistry, and community. Whether you’re a filmmaker, industry professional, or passionate movie lover, DIFF offers an unparalleled journey into the world of cinema.
Opening Night Spotlight: FilmAfrica Premiere
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October 10, 2025: The festival launches with FilmAfrica Opening Night, featuring Kenya’s official Academy Award® submission for Best International Film, NAWI.
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This historic evening marks the official announcement of DIFF’s Nairobi, Kenya expansion in 2026, amplifying African voices and elevating global storytelling.
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Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a history-making night that sets the tone for an unforgettable weekend.
Festival Highlights: Experience the DIFF
Your ticket unlocks access to a bold, curated program designed to inspire and engage:
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Pro-Level Insight: The return of DIFF’s Writers’ Corner Event and Pro Writer Panel, offering actionable tools and industry knowledge for storytellers.
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A Hollywood Classic: Special screening of Steven Spielberg’s “Catch Me If You Can”, followed by an exclusive Q&A with the film’s producer.
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Global Cinema Deep Dives:
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FilmAsia spotlight on South Asian cinema with an executive panel.
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Score & More featuring composer Pinar Toprak, exploring the craft and business of film scoring.
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The Future is Now: Digital Hollywood panel on AI in entertainment, examining how technology is reshaping filmmaking.
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The Heart of DIFF: Celebrate the Official Selections, showcasing narrative, documentary, animation, ultra-short, and the Jr. Leo Program—all competing for the prestigious Leo Award®.
Shaping the Future: Everett Swain II to Deliver Keynote
The DaVinci International Film Festival proudly announces Everett Swain II, Founder of UXD Academy and Hour Table, as a keynote speaker and AI Tech Sponsor for its Digital Hollywood program.
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Keynote Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025, from 3:00 PM to 4:50 PM
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Location: AMC Theaters at The Grove, 189 The Grove Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90036
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Program Details: www.davincifilmfestival.com/digital-hollywood
Swain brings over a decade of expertise in experience design and AI automation, positioning UXD Academy as a hub for creatives looking to merge storytelling with technology. Through Hour Table, he champions smarter creative ecosystems that reshape how filmmakers collaborate, produce, and connect with audiences.
His keynote will address how AI is reshaping cinema across:
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Pre-Production: Automating casting, scheduling, and budgeting
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Creative Collaboration: Empowering directors, editors, and writers with AI co-creation tools
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Audience Insight: Using sentiment analysis to refine storytelling for global markets
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Sustainability: Optimizing production resources to support greener filmmaking
“As AI becomes the next great leap in storytelling, our mission is to empower creatives, not replace them,” Swain says. “We want filmmakers to dream bigger and move faster.”
As AI Tech Sponsor, UXD Academy will also host an interactive showcase at Digital Hollywood, giving festivalgoers a hands-on look at how AI platforms can accelerate editing workflows, build immersive storyboards, and unleash new creative possibilities.
Why You Can’t Miss It
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Walk the red carpet and meet filmmakers shaping the future.
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Network and connect with global industry leaders.
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Experience world-class programming that blends art, technology, and cultural storytelling.
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Be part of DIFF’s global expansion, with events in Los Angeles, Cannes, and Nairobi.
Get Involved Today
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️ Tickets: Limited seating at The Grove. Secure your seat now at www.davincifilmfestival.com/ticketing.
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Media: Apply for press credentials and gain exclusive access to global talent.
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Sponsors: Last-minute activation spots remain. Contact partners@davincifilm.org.
About the Festival
The DaVinci International Film Festival is the flagship initiative of the DaVinci Film Society, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. With branded annual events in Los Angeles, Cannes, and soon Nairobi, DIFF celebrates independent cinema, visionary filmmakers, and diverse storytelling. Its mission is clear: champion global voices, foster innovation, and create lasting platforms for cinematic arts.
✨ Action: Don’t just hear about it—experience the DIFF. From screenings to panels, parties to red carpet moments, this is your chance to be part of a festival that redefines what it means to celebrate film.
Buy Tickets Now → www.davincifilmfestival.com/ticketing
Report by Lela Christine
