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The Yucca Valley Film Festival (YVFF) returns for its 7th edition from November 7–9, hosted at the Yucca Valley Community Center. Widely regarded as the signature cultural event of the Town of Yucca Valley, the festival brings together filmmakers, the local community and high-level industry guests from across the country for three days of screenings, red carpets, meet & greets, signatures and community celebrations, with free popcorn and self-service photobooths!
Since its founding, YVFF has grown into a true cultural landmark in the High Desert. It stands out not only for championing independent filmmakers and offering career-building opportunities, but also for its consistent recognition and impact. Over the past three years (2023-2025), YVFF has been ranked nine times among the Top 100 Best-Reviewed Film Festivals in the world on FilmFreeway, a platform hosting over 14,000 festivals.
“Being consistently ranked among the Top 100 festivals worldwide is an incredible recognition that shows the dedication we all bring to YVFF, and how much the filmmakers community values our work.” — Auregan, festival organizer.
The festival has also been honored locally: recognized as a “Cultural Contributor” by The Basin Wide Foundation, the YVFF also received recognition from the California Senate, the US Congress and the County of San Bernardino.
Entirely sponsored by the Town of Yucca Valley, the community festival today serves as a centerpiece of the town’s identity, helping the desert town place in various “Best Desert Town” rankings by travel outlets.
More than a film showcase, the festival is a vibrant meeting place where cinema and community converge: where filmmakers are truly appreciated and elevated and where local audiences gain access to the artists and their movies, directly.
2025 Festival Highlights
1. Slamdance Winner James Morrison to Headline Masterclass
Acclaimed actor and director James Morrison (“24,” “Twin Peaks”) will be the 2025 YVFF headliner. Following up in the footsteps of Rosanna Arquette, Morrison will look back at his extraordinary film, TV and stage career on Saturday, November 8, from 3–4:30 p.m. in the Yucca Room. A picture signing will follow at 4:30 p.m.
“Having James Morrison as our headliner is a real honor. His artistry and generosity are real - he is the perfect guest to spend time with filmmakers and share incredible anecdotes about his career.” — Matt Beurois, Festival Director
2. $2,500 in Prize Money
Once again, the Town of Yucca Valley will award $2,500 in cash prizes across most competition categories. With awards and certificates offering recognition in over 12 categories every year, the cash prizes ensure meaningful financial support for independent filmmakers.
The prestigious “Yucca Valley Award” laser-engraved glass trophy is also dedicated to a local artist or a movie made locally.
“The Town of Yucca Valley is extremely proud of the impact our community festival has on young filmmakers’ careers. The prize money is just another addition to the long list of perks that directors and producers will find when they come to our town and to our festival.” — Clayton Rardon, Recreation Supervisor, Town of Yucca Valley
3. Success Story: “Koroneburg” Documentary From YVFF to Amazon
Last year’s official selection Koroneburg has secured streaming distribution, launching September 19 on Amazon, Tubi, Xumo, and Google Play. The filmmaker credits the festival and its supportive audiences as a key step toward this achievement.
Read more here.
4. Festival Schedule
Friday, November 7
- 5:30 p.m. — Red Carpet
- 6 p.m. — Meet & Greet
- 6:45 p.m. — Opening Movies, followed by Q&A and Picture Signing
Saturday, November 8
- 9 a.m.–12 p.m. — Screenings, Q&A and Picture Signing
- 1–2 p.m. — Kids Program: Animated Films
- 3–5:30 p.m. — Masterclass & Picture Signing with James Morrison
- 5:30 pm — Red Carpet
- 6 p.m. — Meet & Greet
- 6:45 p.m. — Evening Screenings, followed by Q&A and Picture Signing
Sunday, November 9
- 1:15 p.m. — Roundtable: Scriptwriters & Composers
- 3–4:30 p.m. — Screenings, Q&A and Picture Signing
- 5:30 p.m. — Red Carpet
- 6–7 p.m. — Awards Ceremony
The Yucca Valley Film Festival is the signature cultural event of the Town of Yucca Valley, celebrating independent cinema in the heart of California’s High Desert. Since its founding, YVFF has championed filmmakers, fostered cultural dialogue, and created a bridge between local audiences and the international film community.
The festival runs for three days, celebrating film and community in Yucca Valley. Stay Connected with the Yucca Valley Film Festival For more festival highlights, behind-the-scenes moments, and a full list of winners, visit www.yuccavalleyfilmfestival.com and follow along on Facebook and Instagram.
For more information on the Town’s Community Services programming visit www.yucca-valley.org to view the 2024 Fall/Winter Activities & Events Guide or contact Clayton Rardon at the Town of Yucca Valley Community Services Department 369-7211 x240. Yucca Valley Community Center office is open 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Monday through Thursday.
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