Daniel Jordan 
(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — In a business where festivals come and go, SIMI Film Fest is doing something few others manage: it’s gaining real traction—with both filmmakers and the industry.
Now in its third year, the festival returns September 3–7, 2025 to the Studio Movie Grill venue at Simi Valley Town Center, offering a program that goes beyond screenings—with film, music, and meaningful access—all guided by a clear creative vision.
From red carpet premieres to live orchestral performances, SIMI Film Fest delivers a tightly run, focused week of storytelling and industry connection. With 62 independent films, a full symphony concert, and panels designed to support professional growth, this up-and-coming festival is quickly becoming one to watch in Southern California.
A Festival Built by Filmmakers—for Filmmakers
Founded by World Soundtrack Award-winning composer Joseph Metcalfe and award-winning music supervisor Katie Garibaldi, SIMIFF supports the full creative pipeline. It recognizes the work of not just writers, directors, and actors—but also composers, editors, stunt teams, wardrobe designers, and sound artists.
“It’s not about celebrity for us,” says Garibaldi. “It’s about visibility—for every person who helps build a film. And that starts with giving them a platform that feels real.”
This year’s selections include 62 independent films from around the world. Genres range from drama and horror to comedy and magical realism. Highlights include:
- And Now I Lay Me Down, starring Jane Kaczmarek
- The Ride, featuring Ron Perlman
- Killing Off Connor, with Jacob Loeb and Hannah Pearl Utt
SIMIFF also features local productions from Ventura County, including Church of Phil, A Private Investigation, and Tails California—all filmed in the region using local crews.
The Only Film Festival With Its Own Symphony
Music is a defining element of SIMIFF’s identity. On September 4, the newly formed Simi Valley Symphony Orchestra performs a 90-minute concert at the Rancho Simi Recreation and Parks District headquarters.
The concert program includes iconic film scores from Forrest Gump, Gladiator, and The Sound of Music. It also features a special performance of music from the popular video game Mario + Rabbids, introduced live by its award-winning composer, Grant Kirkhope.
The concert also includes original scores from films in this year’s lineup, giving independent composers the rare chance to hear their work performed by a full orchestra.
“This concert is a cornerstone of our mission,” says Metcalfe. “It’s about giving composers—especially indie composers—industry-level exposure and recognition.”
A Place to Be Seen—And Heard
SIMIFF offers more than screenings. It creates space for meaningful exchange. One-on-one meetings connect filmmakers with studio executives, producers, and distributors. Panels, workshops, and gear demonstrations provide direct paths to career growth.
The festival recognizes achievement across 27 award categories, including Best Score, Best VFX, Best Editing, Best Stunts, and Best Wardrobe.
“We’re not just giving out trophies,” Garibaldi says. “We’re recognizing the real work of filmmaking.”
A Festival for the Industry—And the Public
While SIMIFF draws strong industry interest, it’s also a community-facing event. All screenings, concerts, and panels are open to the public, with tickets available now at www.simiff.com.
Whether you’re a film lover, a local resident, or someone curious about how movies are made, you’re welcome.
“This festival is for Simi Valley, just as much as it is for filmmakers,” says Garibaldi. “Everyone’s welcome.”
Why SIMIFF Matters
SIMIFF is helping redefine how a regional city supports creative production. Simi Valley already serves as a trusted filming location for features, television, and commercials. The festival expands that reputation by adding cultural capital and community infrastructure.
SIMIFF shows how a production-ready city builds long-term value through:
- Location Variety and Visual Flexibility
- Reliable Infrastructure
- Strong municipal support
- Cost Efficiency Compared to Urban Centers
- Live scoring capabilities (Simi Valley Symphony Orchestra)
- Experienced local crews and vendors
- Direct freeway access to Los Angeles with significantly lower overhead
For location scouts, producers, and independent filmmakers, SIMIFF isn’t just an event. It’s a signal that Simi Valley is ready to play an even larger role in the future of film-making in California.
Dates and Details
- Festival: September 3–7, 2025
- Venue: Studio Movie Grill, Simi Valley Town Center
- Film Music Concert: September 4, 7:30 PM at Rancho Simi Rec & Parks District Headquarters
Tickets and Passes: www.simiff.com
