History

The Reykjavík International Film Festival (RIFF) was founded in 2004 by Hrönn Marinósdóttir and a group of film enthusiasts. They envisioned a festival that could bridge cultural gaps, promote Icelandic cinema on an international stage, and create a space for young talent to showcase their work and skills. This dream has now come true. RIFF has grown rapidly to become one of Iceland’s largest cultural festivals, attracting filmmakers and film enthusiasts from all over the world.

In just over two decades, RIFF has welcomed numerous esteemed honorary guests, including famous directors such as Milos Forman, Werner Herzog, Darren Aronofsky, and Jim Jarmusch. Many world-class talents have thus contributed to building the festival's reputation as a key event for innovative and progressive films.

The Oscar-winning film "Poor Things," directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, is an artistically and emotionally impactful work that garnered acclaim from critics and audiences worldwide. The film had a special premiere at RIFF, a festival particularly favored by the Greek director.

In addition to these renowned guests, RIFF has, year after year, brought together a diverse group of filmmakers, actors, and professionals from the film industry, creating a vibrant and fertile community. This community has fostered valuable connections and laid the groundwork for successful collaborations.

One of RIFF's unique features is its emphasis on creating memorable and different experiences for guests. This is evident in the festival’s various special events and screenings held in unconventional locations such as swimming pools, natural settings, historical sites, and even private homes. These unique screenings and the exceptional team that brings them to life make RIFF a distinctive cultural festival.