SLIFF serves as a cinematic beacon, illuminating the big screen with a diverse array of films that might otherwise remain hidden gems waiting to be discovered by local audiences. As the festival unfolds, St. Louis becomes a vibrant hub for filmmakers from far and wide, with many making their inaugural visit to the city. In this dynamic atmosphere, the city buzzes with the infectious energy and passion that only the power of film can generate.

A celebration of the depth of our local artistry and culture, the City of Lights Film Festival aims to attract Midwest filmmakers and audiences to downtown Aurora. Critically acclaimed and carefully curated films will be presented all weekend at multiple venues, letting our city shine bright.

In our 27th year, Urbanworld remains in a class of one by creating communities and spaces where Storytelling, Technology and Community converge. Our mission as a festival and an organization continues to have urgent relevance as the storytellers and ideas presented across our festival platforms lift up the best of storytelling, technology and culture.

Welcome to North America’s longest-running competitive film festival. With more than 100 feature films and 60 shorts films from around the world, ranging from moving, life-affirming dramas to eye-opening documentaries to midnight shockers, this year’s festival will leave you with plenty talk about!

Welcome to North America’s longest-running competitive film festival. With more than 100 feature films and 60 shorts films from around the world, ranging from moving, life-affirming dramas to eye-opening documentaries to midnight shockers, this year’s festival will leave you with plenty talk about!

Welcome to North America’s longest-running competitive film festival. With more than 100 feature films and 60 shorts films from around the world, ranging from moving, life-affirming dramas to eye-opening documentaries to midnight shockers, this year’s festival will leave you with plenty talk about!