A year of triumph over challenges marks a satisfying 2009 Festival

The recently concluded Vancouver International Film Festival drew 149,135 people to 659 screenings of 379 films representing some 75 countries. Many of these films were Canadian or North American premieres, and visiting filmmakers were widely in attendance, presenting over 200 of these screenings.

Festival Director Alan Franey reflected, "For the Vancouver International Film Festival, 2009 will be remembered as a year of triumph over challenges. We had braced ourselves for significant loss amidst funding cuts and general economic uncertainty, but a strong line-up of films and a last-minute infusion of promotional support from the Government of Canada's Marquee Tourism Events Program formed the basis for one of the most successful festivals in our 28-year history. A large and diverse selection of films drew 149,135 people, up considerably from last year's 142,425, when the economic crunch first showed its impact. Other indicators-including media reports, Internet communications and substantial public voting for films-underlined a tremendously positive response to the excellent international cinema on display. Complementing that, filmmakers and other industry participants were extremely positive in their response to VIFF audiences and to the city itself. Sparkling Vancouver autumn days and tremendously wide generosity from community and business organizations put the best possible face on the festival. Catalyzed support for the arts and governmental tourism initiatives helped VIFF attracted many appreciative attendees from across the Pacific Northwest and beyond. We look forward to next year, when we will once again welcome filmmakers and film lovers from around the world to Vancouver. Our 2010 dates are September 30 to October 15."

Statistics for the 2009 VIFF:

Attendance       149,135                                               Industry Guests                                    650

Films                232 feature-length (89 Canadian),          World Premieres                        20

                        27 mid-length, 120 shorts (50                International Premieres                25

                        Canadian)                                            North American Premieres           34

Screenings       659 (612 Public + 47 Media)                  Canadian Premieres                    54

Countries          75                                                       English-Canadian Premieres        21