Annually, stunning and impactful nature films are crafted worldwide, yet they often elude mainstream cinemas in the Netherlands. To address this, we initiated the Wildlife Film Festival of Rotterdam, a platform to showcase these exceptional films and celebrate their deserving creators.

The inaugural edition of our festival, held in 2015 at Cinerama Film Theater, welcomed 2,100 attendees. Over the years, our audience grew steadily, reaching a remarkable 12,500 visitors in 2019. The global pandemic affected the 2020 and 2021 editions, but we are thrilled to announce that WFFR will return from October 31st to November 5th of this year.

Since its inception, our festival has called Cinerama Film Theater its home. Situated in the heart of Rotterdam, this historic cinema boasts seven screening rooms and is part of a monumental complex on Westblaak.

In response to the pandemic, Wildlife Film Festival Rotterdam introduced a groundbreaking virtual festival, running concurrently with the physical event. This online edition will continue in 2023, accessible from November 1st to November 21st.

In 2020, we embarked on an ambitious On Tour program, presenting the best films from previous editions in cinemas across the Netherlands. Regrettably, the ongoing pandemic necessitated the discontinuation of this program in 2021.

Wildlife Film Festival Rotterdam stands out not only for its exceptional film selection but also for its distinctive visual identity. Each year, we unveil a fresh house style, crafted by the talented graphic agency De Ronners, ensuring our unique and recognizable presence.

Beyond film screenings, Wildlife Film Festival Rotterdam dedicates itself to nurturing the next generation of wildlife enthusiasts. Our comprehensive program welcomes over 2,000 primary and secondary school students during the festival weekdays. Additionally, we extend this educational experience to students nationwide through our online platform.

Each year, WFFR attracts esteemed filmmakers from around the globe. These talented individuals grace our festival, offering insightful Q&A sessions and engaging post-film discussions.

While primarily a public film festival, WFFR also serves as a crucial meeting ground for the Dutch wildlife film industry. Our diverse program includes a series of workshops and lectures tailored for professionals in this field. Moreover, we honor outstanding filmmakers with prestigious awards, recognizing their exceptional contributions. This year, prizes will be presented in a remarkable 11 categories during the glamorous Flamingo Award Ceremony.

Eager to immerse yourself in the captivating world of wildlife films? WFFR offers a fantastic opportunity to enjoy select films at no cost. Visit our official YouTube channel and explore a curated collection of past festival entries available for your online viewing pleasure.

We eagerly await your presence at WFFR—an extraordinary celebration of nature’s beauty and the incredible stories it weaves.