Anchorage International Film Festival

The Anchorage International Film Festival (AIFF) is the largest film festival in Alaska. It is held annually in Anchorage. It's slogan is "Films Worth Freezing For." In 2023, Moviemaker Magazine named the Anchorage International Film Festival one of the 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World

Founded in 2001, the festival takes place annually in December. Around 100 films are shown in several diverse categories. The festival is co-directed by Pat McGee and Adam Linkenhelt.

Under the new 2024 leadership, two new categories have been added: Real-World Impact and The Explorer’s Achievement Award.

The Real-World Impact Award category will feature documentaries and scripted films that strive to change the world through powerful storytelling and impactful narratives, highlighting pressing social issues and inspiring action. Emphasizing works from young and emerging filmmakers, this category aims to showcase and support independent storytelling that engages with significant causes such as LGBTQ+, climate justice, racial equity, and mental healthcare.

The Explorer’s Achievement Award category will celebrate the incredible achievements of explorers and adventurers who push the boundaries of the human spirit. This category will be curated by Explorer’s Club filmmaker Gregory Taylor, showcasing films documenting physical journeys and exploring the emotional and philosophical dimensions of adventure. These films will inspire audiences and honor the courage and curiosity that drive human exploration.

The main venue for AIFF is the Bear Tooth Theatre, which hosts the opening night celebration and several other films and events throughout the festival. AIFF also screens films at several venues around Anchorage, including the Anchorage Museum.

History
The Anchorage International Film Festival was founded in 2001 by Tony Sheppard.

Since its inception, the festival has grown to become the largest multi-genre film festival in Alaska.

In November 30, 2018, Anchorage was hit with a 7.0 earthquake on Opening Night. The Bear Tooth was heavily damaged. AIFF quickly found a new venue and opened one day late.

Awards
The awards are in the following main categories:
 * Best Feature Fiction
 * Best Feature Documentary
 * Best Short Fiction
 * Best Short Documentary
 * Best Animation
 * Best Feature Made In Alaska
 * Best Short Made In Alaska
 * Best Screenplay