VIFF Membership
Under the laws of our province, only registered non-profit film societies such as VIFF are allowed to screen films that have not been classified by Consumer Protection BC. Therefore, only members of the Greater Vancouver Film Festival Society (“Society”) are permitted to be present where a non-classified film is exhibited. Patrons can choose from the two Society Membership options outlined below.
Viewing Membership
Definition: A Viewing member is any person 18 years of age* or older who purchases a ticket or pass to attend a Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society film screening (which may not have been classified by Consumer Protection BC) or other events and functions.
Procedure: By purchasing a ticket or pass, individuals are automatically enrolled as non-voting Viewing Members of the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society for one year from the date of purchase of a ticket or pass. If multiple passes or tickets are purchased within a year, the latest purchase date will be the membership validity marker.
Responsibilities: All Viewing members are responsible for upholding the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society’s commitment to providing a safer, inclusive environment free of harassment and discrimination.
Entitlements: Viewing members are entitled to participate in the screenings of films and other events, activities, and functions hosted by the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society.
Revocation and denial of renewal: Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society reserves the right to revoke or deny renewal of Viewing Membership, without notice or refund, of individuals who engage in conduct inconsistent with the Society’s bylaws and policies.
Voting Membership
Definition: A Society member is any person who is 18 years of age or older who voluntarily chooses to meaningfully engage with the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society beyond the use of services.
Procedure: To be a voting member, an individual must engage with the organization in one of the following ways:
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Be a member in good standing of the VIFF+ Premium or VIFF+ Patron Circle membership programs
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Be a donor to the Society at a contribution level of $1000 or more
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Be a current employee or volunteer of the Society
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Express interest in becoming a voting member by applying directly to the society (see link below)
Each society membership is valid from the date of enrollment to the date of the next Annual General Meeting. The VIFF Board of Directors must approve all voting members. Staff will produce reports of new members for approval by the board monthly.
If you are interested in being a voting member but are not a member of the listed groups above, please fill out this form and a representative from the Society will be in touch with details about your membership and the upcoming Annual General Meeting. Viewing Members can apply to be a voting member at any point during the year up to five business days prior to the Annual General Meeting.
Voting Members can opt-out and remain a Viewing Member at any point.
Responsibilities: All members are responsible for upholding the Society’s constitution and bylaws.
Entitlements: Each member receives one vote, which they can exercise at the Society’s General Meetings (Annual or Special). Membership will also allow individuals to become involved in the Society’s voluntary governance structures.
Revocation and denial of renewal: The Board of the Greater Vancouver International Film Festival Society can choose to revoke or deny voting membership and its privileges to any individual who acts in a manner inconsistent with the policies, bylaws, and constitution of the Society.
*Why Are There Age Restrictions?
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The Vancouver International Film Centre is a licensed premise. Filmgoers can enjoy a glass, beer, wine, or spirits at our venue. Our license allows us to serve Society Members over 19 years of age and permit alcoholic beverages in the theatre.
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Year Round at the VIFF Centre – You must be 19 or older and a member of the VIFF society to attend most films at the Vancouver International Film Centre.
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Annual Vancouver International Film Festival – To attend films at the VIFF, you must be 18 or older (19+ at The Rio Theatre) and a member of our film society unless otherwise stated.
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Some films are classified for youth under 18; CHECK HERE to see the list of rated films on offer, and be sure to check the rating section in the yellow box on the event’s website page.
