Vancouver International Film Festival 2026 opens

The Vancouver International Film Festival (VIFF) has kicked off, bringing dozens of filmmakers and talent here to the red carpet for opening day.

One of the films generating buzz is The Bryce Lee Story.

“It’s a film about a little Asian boy named Bryce Lee who lies about being related to Bruce Lee just to fit in at school, and it asks the question: can you make other people love you?” said director Arnold Lim.

“You eventually learn you can’t make other people love you, but you can choose – and you choose to love others.”

Lim says the film gives audiences a glimpse into his own B.C. upbringing.

“We set the film here on Vancouver Island, and that’s where I grew up,” he said.

“It’s really about a young immigrant family that comes to a small community in B.C. B.C. is such a rich part of the film … there are so many layers where B.C. becomes a character in the film.”

Young talent Cordelia Chao, who plays Mei Lee, Bryce’s sister, is excited for the project to hit the big screen in its world premiere.

“It was really fun, and I think Mei is really fun and makes bold choices,” 10-year-old Chao said.

B.C. is also front and centre in another film making its world premiere at VIFF.

“Send the Rain is an intergenerational story about love, connection, culture, and the wildfires,” said director Hayley Gray.

“It’s a family story,” said Erika Prevost, who acted in the film. “I hope lots of families go to see our movie together.”

For some of the talent who aren’t locals, the festival is also a chance to spend time in B.C., something Prevost is grateful for.

“Doing this movie was my first time spending proper time in Vancouver and I’m plotting a move here,” she said.

“You guys have the mountains and the city. It is the perfect place to me!”

The homegrown talent here was something many felt was worth celebrating.

“It’s just so exciting,” said Joella Cabalu, director of First Comes Love: Nakabingwit.

“I’d have to say, Vancouver has so much talent here, and we kind of get lost in the dust sometimes when it comes to Canadian cinema. I’m so proud to be in the Canadian community here, there’s so much talent here.”

Lim says organizations like VIFF are vital for independent filmmakers.

“I feel so grateful to be part of this,” he said.

“This is a celebration of independent film and Canadian art, and all the films we see today are a part of that and preserve the history of Canadians.”

Tickets to VIFF screenings are now on sale.