Editing Philadelphia Film Festival (section)

== History ==

The Philadelphia Film Festival launched in 1991, joining a national expansion of regional film festivals that brought independent and international cinema to audiences beyond New York and Los Angeles. The festival established Philadelphia as a destination for filmmakers and distributors while providing audiences access to films outside mainstream theatrical distribution.<ref name="filmfest"/>

The festival grew through the 1990s and 2000s, increasing its film count and audience. The formation of the Philadelphia Film Society consolidated the festival with year-round programming and educational initiatives. The Society's acquisition of the Roxy Theatre (now PFS Roxy) and renovation of the Prince Theatre (now PFS at the Prince) provided permanent venues for film exhibition.<ref name="filmfest"/>

Recent years have seen the festival maintain prominence while adapting to changing film distribution. Streaming has altered independent film economics, but festivals remain important for premieres, awards positioning, and creating audience experiences that streaming cannot replicate. The Philadelphia Film Festival continues drawing filmmakers who value engaged audiences and a well-organized festival.<ref name="filmfest"/>