The New York International Children's Film Festival's mission is rooted in the belief that film is a way for young people to understand themselves and others. Programming Director Maria-Christina Villasenor says the goal is to craft "a more intelligent, more diverse film culture for kids," and the thematic focus of this year's 25th edition of the festival is on the power of science and art.

The NYICFF is an Oscar qualifying festival, and includes features, shorts, animated films and documentaries. Some of the highlights of this year's slate of films is Richard Linklater's "Apollo 10 1/2," Disney/Pixar's "Turning Red" and the animated film "Where is Anne Frank." 

"We're looking for really strong storytelling that often centers on young protagonists," says Villasenor. "We're really looking for the smartest storytelling - whether that's in live action, animation in particular... and also documentary - by our jury, which is really an outstanding one, qualifying them for Oscar consideration that also lifts them up and gives them the possibility to go to the next level. We want them to be making features and really sharing diverse stories with young audiences. It's so important to see yourselves onscreen. We want kids to see people that look like them and reflect their experiences and all that they experience in the theaters and on their home screens."

The films are screened at the SVA Theatre in Chelsea, and there are also virtual screenings. The festival runs through March 19th. For more information head to nyicff.org.

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