VIFF to screen 162 films in 45th edition, with focus on new German cinema

The 45th Vancouver International Film Festival will present 162 films from 76 countries when it returns Oct. 1 to 11.

The program includes more than 50 documentaries, 91 short films and two episodic series, along with 12 world premieres, six international premieres, 15 North American premieres and 49 Canadian premieres.

Jesse Eisenberg’s The Debut, starring Julianne Moore and Paul Giamatti, will open the festival. Executive director Kyle Fostner said the opening selection was chosen carefully because it helps set the tone for the event.

This year’s Focus on New German Cinema: Extreme Tension program will feature work by German filmmakers living abroad and filmmakers who have immigrated to Germany. Titles include the international premiere of Dear Future Self and the North American premiere of Sometimes, I Imagine Them All at a Party.

The documentary lineup includes world premieres by B.C. filmmakers Joella Cabalu and David Ehrenreich, and films about Terry Fox, Rick Hansen and former prime minister Brian Mulroney. VIFF is also expanding its VIFF Live program with performances, live scores and conversations. Regular screenings and special presentations cost $22; public ticket sales begin Thursday at noon.