Why JHiFF Films Are True Premieres

At the Jackson Hole International Film Festival, we celebrate stories in their freshest, most authentic form. One thing that makes JHiFF special is that every film we select is a premiere. But what does that really mean?

A premiere is a film that has never been released in theaters and isn’t available to stream anywhere. General audiences haven’t seen it, it hasn’t been reviewed in publications, and it hasn’t appeared on Netflix, Hulu, or other platforms. When you watch a film at JHiFF, you’re seeing it for the very first time, right here in Jackson Hole.

Why does this matter? For audiences, it’s the thrill of discovery. You get to experience a story without any prior expectations or spoilers. For filmmakers, it’s a chance to share their work with an engaged, supportive audience before it reaches the wider world. It’s a rare opportunity for a real connection between storytellers and viewers, one that’s at the heart of what JHiFF is all about.

Each year, we carefully select films that push boundaries, tell compelling stories, and give voices to unique perspectives. And because these films are being shown publicly for the first time, attending JHiFF means you’re part of something special: you’re part of the first audience ever to experience these stories.

Film announcements are coming soon! Keep an eye on our website and social media to see which films will take the stage at JHiFF this year.