From stories of youth exploring identity to films that capture historical moments and reveal previously untold stories, great cinema can inspire, educate and engage.
Most films at VIFF are not rated, so youth under 18 may not attend. However, every year we rate a selection of excellent films for young cinema fans to experience and enjoy.
If you are a High School student or teacher, check out the VIFF High School program where we offer discounts and study kits for high school groups.
Our full selection of screenings open to youth will be announced soon. Stay tuned!
Note: Not all screenings of each film will be open to youth. Please see individual film pages for more details.
Youth Programming at VIFF 2026
TAKKUUK
With Tarrak + Silla
Arctic Indigenous artists reckon with culture, colonialism, and a rapidly changing world in this visually explosive film, featuring a hypnotic Bicep score. With live performances from Inuit throat-singing duo Silla and Greenlandic rapper Tarrak.
Derrick Gee's Radio Hour
Fresh from sold-out tours across Europe and Australia, experience the Canadian premiere of cult music tastemaker Derrick Gee’s eclectic Radio Hour, where his on-stage living room welcomes community conversations, special guests, and shared listening.
An Evening with Mark Mothersbaugh
Experience a one-night-only live performance with legendary composer and DEVO founder Mark Mothersbaugh, joined by an 11-piece ensemble, celebrating music from The Royal Tenenbaums, Rushmore, Thor: Ragnarok, The LEGO Movie, A Minecraft Movie, and more.
© Randall Michelson
Jóhann Jóhannsson's Suites
The Denis Villeneuve Scores
Experience the transformative power of music in film during the North American premiere of Jóhann Jóhannsson’s Suites, a live orchestra performance of Jóhannsson’s masterful collaborations with directors Denis Villeneuve and James Marsh.