Must-Visit Film Festivals in Manhattan: The Top 10 Picks

New York City stands as one of the great cinema capitals worldwide. On any given day, Manhattan moviegoers can enjoy some of the best new blockbusters, independent films, and revival screenings of cherished classics. Moreover, the city hosts numerous exceptional film festivals throughout the year, allowing cinephiles to experience movies they may not find elsewhere.

In this article, we’ve curated a list of 10 of the best film festivals in Manhattan. While some serve as significant prelude to award season, others highlight international voices and pressing issues. Each festival boasts a unique character and atmosphere.

01. New York Film Festival (NYFF)

For over 50 years, the New York Film Festival has garnered a reputation as one of the nation’s most prestigious film festivals. Many films that debut or screen at NYFF end up on year-end best lists and award ballots. Taking place from late September to mid-October, NYFF also includes various retrospective and revival screenings, along with special events as part of its programming. Screenings occur in various venues throughout Lincoln Center.

02. New York Asian Film Festival (NYAFF)

The New York Asian Film Festival is renowned as one of the largest showcases of Asian cinema in the United States, spotlighting major films from China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. Conducted by Subway Cinema and happening from late June to mid-July, NYAFF has welcomed significant international stars for special events, including Jackie Chan and Donnie Yen. Most screenings are held at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater.

03. Tribeca Film Festival

The Tribeca Film Festival has been a premier platform for showcasing remarkable international and independent cinema since 2002, with a strong emphasis on documentaries each year. The festival runs in April, with screenings taking place at various venues like Regal Battery Park, the SVA Theater, and Tribeca Performing Arts Center.

04. Japan Cuts

Japan Cuts focuses exclusively on groundbreaking, innovative, and significant works of Japanese cinema from both past and present. This film festival takes place in July, seamlessly following the New York Asian Festival, making it an ideal time for Asian cinema enthusiasts to enjoy the offerings in New York City. Screenings are typically at The Japan Society.

05. DOC NYC

DOC NYC celebrates the art of documentaries and nonfiction filmmaking, featuring renowned films from the festival circuit alongside numerous premieres of new works. Held in November, screenings usually take place at venues such as the IFC Center and the SVA Theater.

06. New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF)

Typically held in March, the New York International Children’s Film Festival showcases an exceptional array of children’s films, young adult films, and family-friendly offerings from across the globe. This includes animated features, live-action films, and a stellar collection of shorts. Screening venues comprise the Directors Guild of America Theater, IFC Center, and Village East Cinema.

07. New Directors/New Films

Presented by the Film Society of Lincoln Center and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), New Directors/New Films showcases some of the finest contemporary cinema from around the world. This esteemed festival is held in March, with screenings at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater and MoMA’s Roy and Niuta Titus Theaters.

08. Human Rights Watch Film Festival

The Human Rights Watch Film Festival offers an international film series dedicated to promoting global justice while highlighting human rights abuses. The festival programming is typically powerful and remarkable. Taking place in June, screenings are held at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater and the IFC Center.

09. Scary Movies at Lincoln Center

From late October to early November, the Scary Movies series at Lincoln Center features an exciting program of horror cinema timed with Halloween festivities. This includes new film premieres along with screenings of horror classics and cult favorites. Usually held at the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center, this series attracts genre enthusiasts.

10. Film Comment Selects

In February, Film Comment Selects showcases modern films, avant-garde cinema, and classics curated by the writers and editors of Film Comment magazine. Screenings take place at Lincoln Center’s Walter Reade Theater and the Elinor Bunin Munroe Film Center.