FAQs - Victoria Film Festival
  • The Vic Theatre

    • How to redeem a 5 or 10 film coupons pack?

      To redeem your coupon codes, login to your account, go to The Vic Theatre web page, and add your chosen film(s) to the cart.

      In the Cart, your coupons should be available to click on and use immediately. If they do not appear for some reason, type each code (copy and paste each code from the email you received when purchasing the films pack) in the Coupon Code box and hit Apply Coupon.

      Each applied code will automatically change 1 single ticket item in your cart to zero.

      If you still have any questions, please check our website’s FAQs, or email us at: boxoffice@victoriafilmfestival.com or info@thevic.ca.

      *Coupons are valid for one year from the date of purchase.

      **Please note, coupons can only be used for regular screenings; coupons are NOT valid for special events or for cash value. 

    • What COVID-19 protocols is The Vic Theatre following?

      Have you heard? The Vic Theatre has in-room air disinfection and ultraviolet air treatment equipment for the safest air in Victoria. 

      As a courtesy, the Queen will continue to require proof of full vaccination and a government-issued photo ID until April 19th, 2022.

      Public health does not require the use of masks in public indoor settings. The use of a mask is a matter of personal preference. The Queen requests that you please respect the choices of others.

       

    • Why is this film 19+ when it’s rated PG?

      Back in October 2014, the Vic became the first cinema in Victoria to get its liquor license! That means we can sell fantastic local beer and wine in our concession—you can even bring it down into the theatre! The only trouble is that we can’t let minors in when we’re enjoying our drinks, so unless we’ve decided to make a film an All-Ages screening, we’ve got to make sure our audience is over 19.  Cheers!

    • Ticketing Policy

      ●  All tickets and products are final sale and are non-refundable. No exchanges. Non-Transferable.

      ●  Refunds on cancelled films (when applicable) will be refunded to the original method of payment.

      ●  Tickets are available to purchase in advance online and at The Vic Theatre 30 minutes before the screening.

      ●  Every ticket holder needs to have a membership unless otherwise specified.

      ●  All transactions will incur a $3 service fee + GST.

      ●  Camera, audio, and video recording equipment is prohibited

    • I want to bring my child to a screening that has an age limit.

      Unfortunately, we are held to BC liquor and Consumer Protection laws. Unless the screening is listed as “All Ages” minors cannot attend, even with parent permission or attendance.

    • What is available at the concession?

      We’ve got popcorn, treats, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic bevvys! A full list of the goodies you can enjoy at The Vic is coming soon!

    • Why do I need a membership?

      In order to watch unclassified movies in BC, Consumer Protection BC requires attendees to be members of the film society screening the movie. Memberships are only $2 and can be renewed every August 1st. For more information about our memberships, please visit this page. 

    • I lost something! Do you have it?

      After each screening, our staff and volunteer team clean up the theatre. If a lost item is found, we will keep it in The Vic Theatre office. To learn if we found your lost item, please contact our Theatre Manager by email at info@thevic.ca. Make sure to include: 

      ●  A description of the item you lost 

      ●  The time and date you think you might have lost it 

      ●  The screening or event you were attending at The Vic 

      ●  The general area where you were sitting in the theatre 

      You can also pop by the theatre and talk with the manager! We open half an hour before the first screening of the day. There is not a staff person there until that time.

    • Is The Vic Theatre available for rent?

      Yes! You can rent The Vic Theatre for your private and public events. For more details, pricing, and what we can offer, please visit this page.

    • How do I purchase wheelchair-accessible seats?

      Wheelchair-accessible seating is available in person and over the phone. Please give us a call at 250-389-0444 to arrange a seat or if you have any questions.

    • Is The Vic wheelchair accessible?

      The Vic Theatre is wheelchair accessible. A ramp allows you to reach an elevator that will take you down to the theatre. Our wheelchair-designated areas are located toward the back of the theatre and will provide you with a good view of the screen. Make sure to ask a staff member or volunteer for help opening and operating the elevator.

    • Where is The Vic Theatre and where can I park?

      The Vic Theatre is located at 808 Douglas Street, in the Nootka Court building.

      The entrance to the theatre is on the corner of Douglas and Humboldt. 

      Street parking is available around The Vic Theatre. The closest parkades are: 

      Broughton Square Parkade – 635 Broughton St 

      Broughton Street Parkade – 745 Broughton St 

      Robbins Parking – 744 Broughton St #14

    • When is the theatre open?

      The Vic Theatre opens 30 minutes before the first show of the day. We are open daily EXCEPT on the following dates: 

      ●  December 24-25 

      ●  December 31 to January 4

    • Contact Info

      You can contact the Theatre Manager at info@thevic.ca

      Address: 808 Douglas Street, V8W 2B7, Victoria BC

    • How can I buy tickets and pick my seat?

      You can only buy advance tickets online. You can also buy tickets at the door 30 minutes before showtime. We accept debit, credit, and cash. We’re sorry but all sales are final, with no refunds or exchanges. 

      The Vic is a general seating theatre. You can go in half an hour before screen time to pick the best seat you want!

    • How can I volunteer at The Vic?

      We’re glad you’re interested in supporting us! To volunteer at The Vic Theatre please contact the Theatre Manager at info@thevic.ca 

  • Victoria Film Festival

    • How to redeem a 5 or 10 film coupons pack?

      To redeem your coupon codes, login to your account, go to The Vic Theatre web page, and add your chosen film(s) to the cart.

      In the Cart, your coupons should be available to click on and use immediately. If they do not appear for some reason, type each code (copy and paste each code from the email you received when purchasing the films pack) in the Coupon Code box and hit Apply Coupon.

      Each applied code will automatically change 1 single ticket item in your cart to zero.

      If you still have any questions, please check our website’s FAQs, or email us at: boxoffice@victoriafilmfestival.com or info@thevic.ca.

      *Coupons are valid for one year from the date of purchase.

      **Please note, coupons can only be used for regular screenings; coupons are NOT valid for special events or for cash value. 

    • VFF Virtual

      PLEASE NOTE – WE ARE NOT STREAMING FILMS DURING THE FILM FESTIVAL FOR 2023

      What are the system requirements to watch a film?

      You can watch content on PCs running Windows 7+, and Intel-based Macs running OSX 10.12+. You can also watch films on Android tablets and phones using Chrome, and on iPhones and iPads using Safari.

       

      What are the requirements for Windows computers?

      Windows 7, Windows 8.1 or Windows 10

      Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Opera. We recommend using the latest version of your browser. Internet Explorer is not supported.

       

      What are the requirements for Mac computers?

      Mac OSX 10.12 or later

      Supported browsers: Google Chrome, Firefox, Safari, or Opera. We recommend using the latest version of your browser.

       

      Can I watch content on my iPhone/iPad?

      Yes, you can watch content using Safari on iOS 11.2 or later. 

      ●  Note: The “Screen Mirroring” feature cannot be used – please ensure you turn off Screen Mirroring if you encounter trouble playing content.

      ●  Note: You cannot use a lightning to HDMI adapter to connect to your TV. Try using AirPlay instead if you have a compatible TV or streaming box.

       

      Can I watch content on my Android device?

      Yes, you can watch content using Chrome on Android 6.0 or later. 

       

      Can I Chromecast?

      You can cast to a 3rd generation or newer Chromecast stick.

      To Chromecast from an Android phone or tablet:

      ●  Make sure your Chromecast devices is on the same Wi-fi network as your mobile device

      ●  After the video is playing, tap the “Cast” icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.

      To Chromecast from your computer:

      ●  Make sure you’re using Google Chrome as your browser.

      ●  After the video is playing, tap the “Cast” icon in the bottom right corner of the video player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.

       

      Can I AirPlay to my AppleTV?

      You can AirPlay from most browsers if you have an AirPlay-compatible TV or streaming box by selecting the AirPlay button in the bottom right-hand side of the player. If the icon doesn’t appear, unfortunately casting is not supported on your device.

      ●  Compatible Smart TVs include select Samsung, LG, Sony and VIZIO models.

      ●  Compatible streaming boxes include AppleTV Gen4 and above and select Roku HD streaming devices running the most up-to-date software.

       

      Can I use the web browser built into my TV?

      Maybe. Unfortunately, many built-in Smart TVs’ web browsers don’t support protected content playback. If you get a black screen or error message, it’s likely that your TV is not compatible. Try another method to get the video onto your TV.

       

      Can I connect my computer with a cable to watch on my TV?

      You can directly connect your laptop or computer using an HDMI cable, by following these steps:

      ●  Make sure your computer is close enough to your TV for the HDMI cable to reach.
      ●  Connect one end of the HDMI cable into your computer.
      ●  
      Plug the other end of the cable into an available HDMI port on the TV. Take note of the HDMI input number.
      ●  
      Using the TV’s remote control, set the TV to the HDMI input that matches the port you connected the cable to.
      ●  If your computer’s display does not automatically appear on your television screen, you may need to have the computer manually detect the display:
      ●  Windows: Right-click on the desktop and select “Display Settings” > “Detect” > “Multiple displays”, and select “Duplicate these displays”), and click Apply.
      ●  Mac: Go to the Apple Menu and choose “System Preferences”. Choose “Displays”, and hold down the “Option” key to show the “Detect Displays” button. Click on “Detect Displays” while holding down the Option key.

       

      What happens if I forget my password?

      Use the password reset option on the login page to reset your password. You will need access to the e-mail address you use to log in.

       

      Why does video playback stall or not play smoothly?

      We use adaptive bitrate streaming which means the streaming quality will automatically adjust based on your internet speed. If your internet connection is poor or inconsistent you may experience problems during playback. If you’re on wifi, try moving closer to your router.

       

      I see a black screen when I’m trying to AirPlay on my TV.

      You likely have “Screen Mirroring” turned on in your device settings. Please turn off the screen mirroring setting and start AirPlay by selecting the AirPlay button in the bottom right-hand side of the player.

       

      I see a black screen but can hear audio.

      If you have an external display or TV connected with an HDMI cable, try disconnecting it. If videos play after it is disconnected, then unfortunately the display or cable doesn’t support encrypted video. Try another method.

       

      Why do I see a black screen after the pre-roll if I am casting to Chromecast?

      Some Chromecast versions cannot support transitions from one video to another. If this happens, turn off casting and re-start it once the film starts playing.

    • Ticketing Policy

      ●  All tickets and products are final sale and are non-refundable. No exchanges. Non-Transferable. Hey, I am serious.

      ●  No need to worry; cancelled films will be refunded via the original method of payment.

      ●  VFF 2022 tickets will be available for online purchase, in person (question of availability), via phone orders, or Will Call.

      ●  Sales will cease on February 13th, 2021 at 10 pm.

      ●  Every ticket holder needs to have a membership unless otherwise specified.

      ●  All transactions will incur a $3 service fee + GST. 

      ●  Camera, audio, and video recording equipment is prohibited. Please, baby, behave yourself.

    • Where can I find a program guide?

      We will have a limited amount of small foldable schedules for VFF 2023 available outside the general office on 1215 Blanshard St, in Serious Coffee shops on Vancouver Island and at various other locations throughout the city of Victoria. Keep your eyes peeled!

    • How can I make a donation?

      Donations can be made here and you can also learn more about our donor perks. Thank you for your support!

    • WHEN AND WHERE IS VFF 2023?

      The 2023 Victoria Film Festival is taking place between February 3th & 12th.

  • Annual Events

    • Art Of The Cocktail

      Where is it and what time is it at? 

      Saturday, October 15th, 2022: The Grand Tasting takes place at Crystal Garden at 713 Douglas St. in Victoria BC. The Exclusive VIP Grand Tasting starts at 5:30 PM and the Public Grand Tasting starts at 6:30 PM and ends at 9:00 PM. Other events including the Divas Do Dim Sum Brunch and Industry Seminars will be added in the coming months.

       

      Buying tickets:

      Ticket sales will start on August 1, 2022. We recommend buying tickets in advance as the events often sell out. You can buy tickets in advance online on this page.

       

      Where can I park?

      Broughton St. Parkade – 745 Broughton St 

      Superior St. Parking – 620-698 Superior St Parking 

       

      Why 19+?

      Art of The Cocktail is a series of events where local and international distillers and distributors will be pouring cocktails. BC law requires that all attendees be 19 years or older at all Art of The Cocktail events. 

       

      What do I need to bring with me? 

      Two pieces of ID are required in BC to verify age. 

      The first piece of identification must: 

      ●  be issued by a government agency (Canadian or other) and 

      ●  include the person’s name, birth date and picture 

      Primary ID can include a driver’s licence (including out-of-province), passport, citizenship card, First Nations status card, federal Firearms Possession and Acquisition licence, or National Defence ID. Any of these can be used as a secondary piece of identification as well. 

      The second piece of ID is required to verify the authenticity of the first piece of ID. It must: 

      ●  include an imprint of the person’s name and 

      ●  include the person’s signature and/or picture 

      Secondary ID examples can include credit cards, bank cards, university or college student ID cards, interim driver’s licences (issued by ICBC), BC Transit ProPASSes, Canadian Blood Services donor cards, Transport Canada’s Pleasure Craft Operator’s Cards, Aeroplan cards, or other ID that includes an imprint of the person’s name and either the person’s signature or the person’s picture.

      A temporary licence (that yellow paper) does not count as a valid piece of ID!

       

      What should I wear? 

      The Grand Tasting includes a Best Dressed Competition! Wear your after-five attire for a chance to win the title and great prizes! 

      Coat check is available at the door by donation. 

       

      Where do I find the pictures? 

      A selection of the event’s pictures is posted the week after. So from Monday to Friday following the Grand Tasting keep an eye on our Facebook page and make sure to tag yourself and your friends!

       

      How is the food?

      Enjoy tasters and hors d’oeuvres from the best local restaurants at the Grand Tasting! From 10 Acres to the Fairmont Empress, we’ve got something for everyone. Having dinner before the Grand Tasting is still a great idea! 

       

      Can I volunteer at Art of The Cocktail? 

      Volunteers are a very important component of our team! We welcome everyone who is interested in volunteering at Art of The Cocktail, as long as you are 19+ (due to liquor laws). For more information please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at development@victoriafilmfestival.com 

       

      I lost something! Do you have it? 

      All lost items at Art of The Cocktail are brought to the venue security. Please contact the venue to know if your item was found. 

       

      Is the venue wheelchair accessible? 

      Crystal Garden is wheelchair accessible. Elevators can take you to the main and second floors during the Grand Tasting. Please seek out a volunteer or staff member when you arrive so we can show you around.

    • Free-B Festival

      Who can attend Free-B?

      This is an All-Ages event! Everyone is welcome. Films are usually rated G or PG, with some exceptions. Please pre-register online. A full list of the films and their rating is available on our website.

       

      What should we bring with us?

      Chairs will be provided.

      Stay warm! It might get cold after sundown.

      Snacks and drinks! NO ALCOHOL. NO SMOKING. Feel free to bring snacks with you. We have no popcorn, no food trucks at Free B. Make sure to dispose of your garbage and take away everything you brought with you.

       

      Where and when is Free-B?

      Free-B 2022 is back to Beacon Hill Park!

      Screenings always start at 9 PM. Rain or shine!

       

      How can I volunteer?

      Volunteers are a very important component of our team! We welcome everyone who is interested in volunteering at Free-B Film Festival. For more information please visit our Volunteer page. 

       

      I lost something! Do you have it?

      After each screening our staff and volunteer team clean up the space. If a lost item is found, we will keep it at the venue. To learn if we found your lost item, please contact the venue.

    • Movies Under The Maltworks

      What’s at Movie Under The Maltworks?

      At the venue, we have lots and lots of Phillips beer! In fact, we are pouring TWO regular Phillips beer and a SPECIAL cask created just for you! We also have a food truck at the venue for your late night cravings. On top of watching the film, you also get one free beer and a spirited surprise!

       

      What should we take with us?

      Dress warm! It will get cold once the sun goes down.

      Bring a chair! A limited number of chairs are available for rent.

      Cash for beer!

      2 pieces of ID

       

      Why 19+?

      Beer will be served at the event. According to BC Liquor Laws, all attendees must be 19 years or older.

      Two pieces of ID are required in BC to verify age.

       

      The first piece of identification must:

      ●  be issued by a government agency (Canadian or other) and

      ●  include the person’s name, birth date and picture

      ●  Primary ID can include a driver’s licence (including out-of-province), passport, citizenship card, First Nations status card, federal Firearms Possession and Acquisition licence, National Defence ID. Any of these can be used as a secondary piece of identification as well.

      The second piece of ID is required to verify the authenticity of the first piece of ID. It must:

      ●  include an imprint of the person’s name and

      ●  include the person’s signature and/or picture

      ●  Secondary ID examples can include credit cards, bank cards, university or college student ID cards, interim driver’s licences (issued by ICBC), BC Transit ProPASSes, Canadian Blood Services donor cards, Transport Canada’s Pleasure Craft Operator’s Cards, Aeroplan cards or other ID that include an imprint of the person’s name and either the person’s signature or the person’s picture.

      ●  A temporary licence (that yellow paper) does not count as a valid piece of ID!

       

      Where is Movie Under the Maltworks happening and at what time?

      All screenings take place in the backyard of Phillips Brewery at 2010 Government Street. Doors open at 8PM and the screening starts at 9PM. Be there early and pick the best seats!

       

      Where can we buy tickets?

      Buy tickets in advance online or in person at 1215 Blanshard Street. We’re open Monday to Friday, 9AM to 5PM. If the event is not sold out, you can also buy tickets at the door. We’re sorry but all sales are final, no refunds or exchanges. The screening will take place whether it rains or shines! No babes in arms, please. Tickets include the screening, one Phillips beer and a spirited surprise!

       

      How can I volunteer?

      Volunteers are a very important component of our team! We welcome everyone who is interested in volunteering at Movie Under the Maltworks, as long as you are 19+ (due to liquor laws). For more information please visit our Volunteer page.

       

      I lost something! Do you have it?

      After each screening, our staff and volunteer team clean up the space. If a lost item is found, we will keep it in our office at 1215 Blanshard Street, open Monday to Friday, 9AM to 5PM. To learn if we found your lost item, please contact us by phone (250) 389-0444 or email boxoffice@victoriafilmfestival.com .

      Make sure to include:

      A description of the item you lost

      The time and date you think you might have lost it

      The screening or event you were attending

      The general area where you were sitting