The Institute explores traditional and nontraditional forms of nonfiction storytelling to create collaborative opportunities for filmmakers, journalists, scholars, policy makers, NGO's, community members and students.
DocFilm provides a structure for collaboration among artists, educators, policymakers and scholars in the public and private sectors who are committed to exploring and developing new forms and functions for documentary filmmaking.
Our Mission
Our primary objective is to make SF State and the San Francisco Bay Area an internationally recognized center for excellence and innovation in nonfiction film production, culture, exhibition and research.
Our History
San Francisco State alumni George and Judy Marcus made a generous donation to the University that, among other things, launched the Documentary Film Institute. In 2015, the Documentary Film Institute was officially established as a Research and Service Organization (RSO).
Since its inception DocFilm has screened more than 120 films and hosted more than 40 visiting filmmakers for more than 12,000 attendees. Our thematic festivals, premieres, individual film exhibitions, tributes, productions and pre-launch activities have brought some of the most important national and international films, filmmakers and thinkers to San Francisco State and the Bay Area. Post-screening discussions and master classes have featured thought leaders in documentary film, producers and scholars, sparking meaningful dialogues between filmmakers and audiences in San Francisco, the Bay Area and beyond.