The Montclair Film Festival, one of New Jersey’s premier cinematic events, is back for its 14th annual edition this October, bringing a blend of award-winning films, intimate conversations with top industry talent, and a celebration of the art of filmmaking. Since its founding in 2010, the festival has grown into a year-round arts organization known as Montclair Film, which operates local cinemas, educational programs, and community engagement initiatives throughout the state.
Festival Dates and Venues
The 2025 festival runs from October 17 through October 26, spanning multiple venues across Montclair. Among the highlights is the newly reopened Bellevue Theater, now leased by Montclair Film, offering a state-of-the-art venue for screenings and special events. Other theaters and cultural spaces throughout Montclair will also host the festival’s screenings, panels, and Q&A sessions.
Leadership and Tickets
Tricia Haggerty Wenz was appointed Executive Director of Montclair Film in July 2025, bringing fresh vision to the organization. Ticket sales for festival members open on September 29, while the general public can purchase passes starting October 3, allowing film enthusiasts ample time to plan their festival experience.
Featured Films and Special Guests
The 2025 festival lineup showcases over 60 feature films and 75 short films, ranging from acclaimed international releases to locally produced works. Opening Night highlights include Jay Kelly, while the Closing Night film, Christy, promises an inspiring finale. Other notable screenings include a restored version of The Sound of Music to commemorate the Bellevue Theater’s reopening, the Bruce Springsteen biopic Deliver Me From Nowhere, the quirky mystery Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Story, and the contemporary drama Ask E. Jean.
The festival also welcomes several high-profile guests:
- Brendan Fraser will receive the festival’s Performer Award and join a post-screening discussion of his new film, Rental Family, alongside Montclair resident Stephen Colbert.
- Spike Lee, the acclaimed filmmaker, will be honored with the Filmmaker Tribute in a conversation hosted at the Wellmont Theater with Colbert.
- Lucy Liu is slated to make an appearance, engaging with audiences in Q&A sessions.
- Stephen Colbert, who has long ties to Montclair and whose wife serves on the Montclair Film board, will host multiple on-stage discussions with festival attendees and special guests.
Awards and Emerging Talent
The festival includes competitive categories for Documentary, Fiction, Future/Now (highlighting emerging filmmakers), and New Jersey Films (focused on short films). The Future/Now category includes the Mark Urman Award and a cash prize to support rising talent, reflecting Montclair Film’s commitment to fostering the next generation of storytellers.
Year-Round Programming
Montclair Film is not just a festival—it operates year-round programs that enhance New Jersey’s cultural landscape. The Clairidge, a multi-screen cinema in Montclair, hosts screenings and events throughout the year. Educational programs provide filmmaking classes for adults and youth, with expanded outreach into Newark, Paterson, Kearny, and Lower Manhattan. Community engagement initiatives include youth filmmaking competitions and screenings that connect audiences with the art and craft of film.
For film enthusiasts, cultural explorers, and families alike, the Montclair Film Festival offers an immersive experience celebrating both international cinema and homegrown talent. For more details on tickets, schedules, and special events, visit the official Montclair Film Festival page at Montclair Film Festival and plan your visit to one of New Jersey’s most celebrated arts destinations.
