Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Josh Hope: We give filmmakers an opportunity to screen on the big screen in front of our enthusiastic audience at the beautiful and historic Woodward Arts Theater, and provide several opportunities to network with hundreds of other filmmakers/actors at our kick-off bbq block party and after parties. We also provide complimentary hotel rooms, airport shuttle, meals & adult beverages in our VIP filmmaker lounge all festival long for all visiting filmmakers/actors.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

JH: An amazing slate of films of all genres, the most welcoming & supportive audiences anywhere in the world, an opportunity to network with filmmakers/actors from all over the globe in one of the coolest screening venues in the country.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

JH: We have no real qualifications. If it’s good…we want to screen it.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

JH: Film Festival slates all depend on those programing them. Some festivals may be afraid to play certain types of genres of films depending on their programmers tastes and preferences. We’re happy to say will play films of all genres.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

JH: We’re indie filmmakers ourselves, so we provide a festival that would make us happy and proud to be a part of if we we’re visiting as filmmakers.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

JH: 2016 will be our 2nd year, so we’re still looking to grow and get better every chance we get.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

JH: We want to continue to grow within the community, and hopefully will add more days of screenings in the future. We’re also adding a live music element this year that we hope to continue to grow in the future.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

JH: Personally…Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind is my favorite movie and I’ve seen it a lot. It gets better with each viewing.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

JH: I only need two words…great story

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

JH: Twister Alley Film Festival takes place in the heart of Northwest Oklahoma where I grew up. The film scene is non-existent other than our festival. We’re looking to change that.