The Fredericksburg Film Festival (FFF) is back for its second year, promising an impressive lineup of films from around the world, including selections from prestigious festivals like Cannes, Sundance, and Tribeca.
Set to take place from April 16-20, 2025, this year’s event will highlight top-tier independent films, Virginia-based filmmakers, and a growing arts culture in Fredericksburg.
The festival’s programming director, Ryan Cudahy, said the event started as a passion project while he worked for the Fredericksburg Economic Development and Tourism Office. After early struggles—including an initial venue closure—Cudahy and Dalton McColo of 1108 Media worked to bring the festival to life. The community’s response has been overwhelmingly supportive, helping to solidify Fredericksburg’s place in Virginia’s indie film scene.
FFF will feature films that have made waves at major festivals, including:
- “Beautyiosity” by Zac Solberg, screened at Cannes Film Festival.
- “Border Hopper” and “Somebody Cares,” both Sundance selections. Screenwriter Brian Grove of Somebody Cares will attend the festival.
- “Beacon,” a Tribeca Film Festival selection starring Academy Award nominee Demián Bichir.
- “The French Italian,” featuring SNL alum Aristotle Atari, with the director attending the festival.
Beyond internationally recognized films, Virginia filmmakers will take center stage. Notable entries include:
- “500 Fireflies” (shot in Staunton, VA) and Dear Luke, Love Me (shot in Richmond).
- “Calamity and Mercy,” a documentary about Ukrainian refugees, was directed by Woodbridge native Daniel W. Smith.
- “Waiting for April” and “Memory Project,” two shorts by Virginia filmmaker Timothy Parsons.
Cudahy emphasized the importance of showcasing local talent alongside global award winners. “The Virginia filmmakers this year really stepped up and made some incredible films, and we are so excited to screen those,” he said.
Screenings and events will occur across multiple venues, including Courtyard Marriott Downtown on Caroline Street, Red Dragon Brewery, and Reign on Princess Anne Street. Opening night (April 16) will feature a special documentary screening of “The Body Politic”, focused on Baltimore Mayor Brandon Scott, followed by a Q&A session with activist Erica Bridgeford, moderated by Fredericksburg Mayor Terry Devine.
On Saturday, April 19, FFF will host a block party at 4 p.m. in the Red Dragon Brewery parking lot, featuring a live performance by Fredericksburg-based band Virginia Man. The festival will also include after-parties at Ironclad Inn, Curitiba Art Café, and Wild Hair Cider.
Though Richmond and Charlottesville are often known for their arts scenes, Cudahy believes Fredericksburg is ready to embrace a major film festival. He pointed to the success of the Middleburg Film Festival in nearby Loudoun County, which attracts top-tier films and talent. “We looked at Middleburg and said, why can’t Fredericksburg do the same thing?” he said.
The city’s expanding arts scene, supported by galleries like Pawn Shop and LibertyTown and organizations like the Fredericksburg Arts Commission, has helped drive interest in independent film. “Fredericksburg is growing as an arts hub, and FFF is a great contribution to that,” Cudahy added.
Ticketing details and a full schedule will be available on the festival’s website.
