The Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival will return on May 1 to 4, with a new slate of cinema and live music, mixed with an assortment of parties in Pennsylvania’s historic Victorian Town.
Many in and around Greater Philadelphia already know Jim Thorpe for its small-town charm, indie spirit, mountain views, and artsy vibes. For many, its relatively close proximity to Philadelphia, New York City, Lehigh Valley, the Poconos, and North Jersey, make it a popular day-trip destination.
The annual Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival (JTIFF) invokes the spirit of the town while making a concerted effort to promote films by women, people of color, members of the LGBTQ+ community, and student filmmakers.
“Our credo is ‘eyes and minds wide open’ and we mean it,” said JTIFF Founder and Executive Director Todd Morris. “JTIFF cares deeply about diversity and strives to give the under-represented filmmaker a chance.”
This year’s festival, held at the Mauch Chunk Opera House, is packed. It features ten first-run feature films and 80 short films from around the world, live performances, guest appearances, Q&As with filmmakers, and immersive art experiences. There will also be three 2025 SXSW world premieres, including a Special Jury Award winner. All three directors will travel from Los Angeles to present their films in person. This year will also showcase new work from both emerging filmmakers and seasoned veterans.
“JTIFF has grown leaps and bounds over the past eight years,” said JTIFF Co-Founder Jocelyn O’Neil Morris. “We’ve maintained our place in ‘The Top 100 Best Reviewed Festivals’ out of more than 8,000 on FilmFreeway and we’ve premiered more A-list festival films in Pennsylvania with more attending Directors than nearly any other festival in the state.”
The festival’s theme for 2025 is “Jim Thorpe Loves Philly,” spotlighting the cultural and raw talent found within the Greater Philadelphia area.
For tickets, festival passes, film descriptions, full schedule, lodging, and more, visit jimthorpeindiefilmfest.com.
