The California Film Institute (CAFILM) is pleased to share the official poster design for the 48th Mill Valley Film Festival (MVFF48), once again created by Marin County–based agency Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners (BSSP). This year’s campaign embraces the idea of community through a simple, striking image: a single red movie theater seat set in iconic Bay Area locations – a quiet reminder that every cinema experience starts with one seat—and is best shared together.
Centering on a message that couldn’t be more timely or resonant: There is no better way to experience film than in person at a theater.
At a time when gathering feels more meaningful than ever, the concept celebrates the unique power of seeing films in person. That one seat is more than a place to watch—it’s the starting point of a shared journey. In the theater, surrounded by others, we laugh, respond, and feel in sync. The theater, a room full of strangers, becomes a space where people can connect with one another.
“MVFF has the influence of an urban festival and the atmosphere of a destination film festival—the best of both worlds for any film lover. Each year, our festival design reflects something vital about the current moment, and this year’s poster does just that. It’s a reminder that everything starts with showing up: one seat, one audience, one shared experience. In a time of digital everything, gathering to watch a film remains meaningful, personal, and irreplaceable,” said Mark Fishkin, MVFF Founder/Director.
The MVFF48 poster reminds us that cinema doesn’t just take us somewhere else – it brings us closer to one another. Whether nestled at the edge of the Bay or silhouetted against Mount Tam, the seat connects our sense of place to the stories we experience on screen. A few additional visuals extend the concept even further, placing the chair in surprising settings like underwater or the desert, hinting at film’s power to take us anywhere.
“Our long-standing partnership with the Mill Valley Film Festival reflects a shared belief in the power of film to inspire, connect, and strengthen communities. We’re honored once again to help them craft the identity and social amplification for the landmark 48th festival,” said John John Butler, Creative Chairman, BSSP.
About the Design
The MVFF48 visual campaign was developed by longtime creative partners Butler, Shine, Stern & Partners (BSSP), with design led by Dennis Resming, BSSP Design Director, and photography by Luis Peña. Their striking imagery grounds this year’s look in the natural beauty and spirit of the Bay Area, reinforcing MVFF’s strong connection to both place and the big-screen experience.
