Los Angeles, CA – The World Culture Film Festival (WCFF), an initiative spearheaded by the Art of Living Foundation and founded by global humanitarian Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, is set to return to Los Angeles for its second consecutive year. Scheduled to run from June 26 through June 29, 2025, the festival aims to present a curated selection of international cinema that embodies the theme of “entertainment that uplifts.”
Building on the success of its inaugural year, the WCFF program for 2025 is designed to offer audiences a diverse and thought-provoking cultural experience. The festival’s mission aligns with the broader goals of the Art of Living Foundation, emphasizing human values, well-being, and cross-cultural understanding through the powerful medium of film.
Festival Highlights and Key Screenings
The 2025 edition promises several notable events and film presentations. The festival’s opening night will feature a special screening of the film “Rule Breakers.” This screening will be immediately followed by a question-and-answer session providing insight into the production and themes of the film. The Q&A panel is scheduled to include lead actors Amber Afzali, Nina Hosseinzadeh, and Sara Malal Rowe, offering attendees a direct interaction with the creative talent.
A significant highlight of the festival will be an address delivered by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the founder of the Art of Living Foundation and the driving force behind the WCFF initiative. His address is anticipated to further articulate the festival’s vision and the role of culture and cinema in fostering positive change.
The festival program also includes a screening of the critically acclaimed film “Laapataa Ladies.” Directed by Kiran Rao and produced by Aamir Khan, this film gained international recognition and was Oscar-shortlisted, highlighting its artistic merit and global appeal.
Another anticipated screening is the film “The Performance.” Following the screening of “The Performance,” special guests Chet Lowe and Jeremy Piven are expected to be in attendance, adding another layer of engagement for festival-goers.
Beyond the Screen: Exhibitions, Panels, and Performances
The WCFF extends beyond traditional film screenings to encompass a broader cultural experience. A new exhibition titled “The View Beyond” will be featured, showcasing aerial photography by artist Sahil Rohira. This visual element complements the cinematic offerings, providing diverse artistic perspectives.
In addition to film showings and the photography exhibition, the festival will host a series of panels, international movie film blocks, and live performances. These components are designed to enrich the festival experience, offering deeper dives into filmmaking, exploring global cinematic trends, and providing opportunities for community gathering and artistic appreciation.
Closing Ceremony and Venue
The culmination of the World Culture Film Festival will be the closing awards ceremony. This event will recognize outstanding films and contributions showcased throughout the four days. The ceremony is set to take place at the historic Art of Living Foundation venue in Los Angeles, a location that holds significance for the organizing body and provides a fitting backdrop for the festival’s conclusion.
The return of the WCFF to Los Angeles in June 2025 signifies a continued commitment to promoting cultural exchange and positive values through film. The festival provides a unique platform for international filmmakers and artists to share their work with a diverse audience, contributing to the vibrant cultural landscape of the city.
