festival director

Interview with Festival Director Eric Morgret (Crypticon Seattle Horror Film Festival))

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, Uncategorized , , , , , ,

In 2017 Crypticon Seattle was picked as the Best Convention in Seattle by the readers of The Seattle Weekly. Crypticon Seattle, the convention is in its 11th year and Crypticon Seattle Film Festival is in its 7th year. Crypticon Seattle is the convention celebrating the Pacific Northwest’s Darker Side. Three days of your favorite actors, authors, and artists, along with tons of new people and things you never knew existed. But we are so much more than a tidal wave of blood, guts, and scares.

Contact

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

Eric Morgret: We provide a fun event with an amazing convention around it. It is a little different than most festivals. We are in a hotel and don’t have a full theater set-up. We do however love the films and are always adding things every year to make the event better for filmmakers. Adding, meet and greets and special events. We have a couple of big things being added this year that have not been announced yet.

Crypticon has stars in attendance some filmmaker have deals made at the convention. With shorts and features we show a year later, it’s been fun to watch.

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

We are adding a few new elements that will enhance the experience substantially. Most are filmmakers only so I can’t announce them here. We are working hard to make the film room feel more like a theater and have some changes that should help that.

You will have your film shown with a post-screening Q&A; we have convention parties going over the weekend, with a huge vendors room, panels to attend, classes, contests, and huge events. We will have filmmaking training classes and more.

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

We are looking for the story and something a little different. We like quality filmmaking chops, but we do love to show low-budget shorts and some have low-value production values.

First and foremost is the story and something interesting to show.

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

Sure that does happen. I am sure we have been guilty of this as well, but we try very hard not to be. We view all submissions; this does not always happen at every festival. In the end, festivals are run by people, we do mistakes, and we have huge differences of opinion. What one festival thinks is the most brilliant thing they have other seen another festival with thinking it’s terrible and would never show it. This can feel like your not being treated fairly; I don’t think it’s done intentionally. Since I also am a filmmaker and work hard to get my films shown, I know how this can feel. In the end, it is still people running the event, and they aren’t ever perfect.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

We love horror movies! We love to represent the films and shorts you may not see otherwise. The world is stuffed with ways to watch movies, festivals like Crypticon Seattle and BoneBat Film Festival are here to help you dig through the noise.

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

It’s a great service! I think we were the 4th festival to sign up for them a few years back and since day one they have been responsive and helpful with any questions we have had. They also work hard to improve the service and are always adding useful services and tools.

7) Where do you see the festival by 2023?

More fun, more expansive, crazier, and all around full of awesome filmmakers and film fans!

8) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

One? Hmmm, how about a few. Horror is my favorite genre but I love all films. The movie that changed the way I watch movies was Amadeus. No idea how many times I’ve seen that movie. A few heavy hitters in horror that I’ve watched a ton: Carpenter’s The Thing, Hellraiser, Re-animiter, Hammer’s Dracula. Recent films: Blade Runner 2049, It Follows, The Autopsy of Jane Doe, and so many more…

9) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

Tell a good story, and tell it in your original creative voice.

10) How is the film scene in your city?

Growing! I started my first festival almost ten years ago, and the local submissions were few and far between. In 2017 we had enough quality NW shorts to have a Northwest Filmmakers showcase. It lasted an hour. This year we have 2 hours of shorts and two features for our NW Filmmakers Showcase. It’s exciting to see what is going on around here from Seattle to Portland to Boise our NW filmmakers are stepping up and making great movies!

 cryption1.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Terra Renee (African American Women In Cinema)

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, interviews, Uncategorized , , , , , ,

Each year African American Women In Cinema host one of the most celebrated female film events in the country that shines its luminous spotlight onto ambitious women filmmakers from all over the country and the world!

Contact

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

Terra Renee: Bringing awareness of women filmmakers of color

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

An interesting variety of film entertainment programs as well as special keynote panels on social issues such as the metoo movement and the importance of voting.

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

The film have to be written or directed or produced by a woman of color.

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

Interesting question, I have not thought about looking at festivals in that light.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

The lack of opportunities for women of color, although we are starting to see some breakthroughs now.

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

It’s really simple and to the point, not much of an issue.

7) Where do you see the festival by 2023?

Global

8) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

A hard question because there were so many. I will give you one, Stone Mansion.

9) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A good story with excellent acting talent great production, fabulous directing with superb editing.

10) How is the film scene in your city?

Pretty active!

aawic_image.jpg
_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Amanda Drewniak (Ardor Creative Media)

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, Uncategorized , , , ,

 Ardor Creative Media is a “NO BULLSHIT” Non Profit for film and filmmakers. They strive to bring forth the best in Seattle Independent Film making.

http://ardorcreativemedia.com/

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

Amanda Drewniak: Cine City is curated by our non-profit Ardor Creative Media. Cine City is only the piece of the puzzle for local Washington State Filmmakers. This monthly Screening encourages our local filmmakers not only to create but exposes their film(s) to audiences that may have not seen it or known about local made films in our community. Especially since Cine-City has no submission fees, we reach out to more local participants who both can and cannot afford the steepening fees of other festivals. We also have very basic rules to encourage “unknown” filmmakers to create: 1. The film overall must be playable 2. You must show up to the screening (filmmakers get 2 free tickets) and support your film otherwise you do not qualify for the “Best Of” final competition of the Year. 3. You must live in Washington State to participate.

What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

We hold our monthly screenings at Naked City Brewery and Taphouse in their screening room, it’s a small space (75 max occupancy) so it can fill up fast. During all screenings you get full food and bar service. In addition to our film screening, Jeffrey Robert (aka The Gay Uncle) a wonderful local comedian and host works the crowd, conducts trivia (with prizes) at the beginning of the event, leads the Q & A session with the filmmakers at the end of the event and enforces the rules on voting for audience favorite films. At our end of year festival or “Best Of” in November we take all the films that were voted best during the year and have them compete against one another for prizes. Films are voted on by the audience and we announce the winners at the end of the night. At this event, we have harder trivia questions (with better prizes) and a silent auction.

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

As someone who has screened for local festivals, I really think that most festivals are revenue driven. I understand the need to cover overhead and pay your employees but I do feel more could be done to encourage our local filmmaker scene. I mean of course I have turned downed films at Cine City, you have to have a quality standard. I usually send an email explaining why the film was not accepted. Few times I have had a filmmaker comeback with a better film. I do not think there is enough encouragement of talent and cultivating a supportive scene that will ensure quality films are made locally.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Over all, we love film. We love watching films, making films. We want to see more of what Seattle has to offer. It’s hard at times and we feel we want to quit because some screenings have a tough crowd or you get your share of egos thrown at you but every month we comeback to it. We push through and cultivate the type of screenings we want to see more of. We want our neighborhoods and communities to see we have strong talent and quality local entertainment.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

I personal feel the FilmFreeway process has definitely made receiving submissions easier. It helps me organize submitted films into subcategories and helps me stay organized for the Best Of at the end of the year.

Where do you see the festival by 2023?

We are so low budget, I really just take it a year at a time. I hope by 2023, our screenings will become more popular and we can have several a month in different areas of the city and create a really nice Best Of that attracts audiences from out of state to come just to see what Seattle and Washington State has to offer. In general I think Seattle should be the film epicenter of the Pacific Northwest.

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

What a tough question. I am constantly looking for something new. Hmm.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

For me, the ride. It doesn’t have to be the greatest fim created, I just have to enjoy myself. Sorry that was two sentences and this one makes three.

How is the film scene in your city?

Are you asking me to ruffle some feathers? I mean that’s what I do, in my city with film, I ruffle feathers. I love the filmmakers, I love the talent, I think it’s disorganized. I think we need a big wig or two to come through and encourage filmmakers to be proud of their work and encourage our communities to stand behind them. I am originally from Miami and it was a culture shock to see how many filmmakers rush to finish a record amount of films a year and do not slow down and cultivate a project, market a project, and support a project. It’s been a bit of an uphill battle but I am slowly winning people over. I really truly believe there is more to the Seattle film scene and Seattleites just haven’t discovered it in themselves yet. I am hopefully that by 2023 Seattle’s filmmakers will have more courage under their belt to pour their hearts into their projects. I have hope for all the talented people here.

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Lari Teräs (Toronto Int’l Spring of Horror & Fantasy Film Festival (TISH))

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, Uncategorized , , , ,

Toronto Int’l Spring of Horror & Fantasy Film Festival (TISH) had its first event in 2016. The festival was launched by filmmakers and genre film aficionados Lari Teräs and Jonathan Lewis in order to give people of Toronto access to quality genre films throughout the year.

Our aim is to showcase the best genre films from around the World from new filmmakers and seasoned veterans. We focus on new voices and prefer creativity over big budgets. In addition to dedicated short film blocks, we aim to schedule each feature with one short and a genre appropriate music video at the beginning to set the mood. We also run Toronto’s first and only annual Scream Queen/King Competition along with other social events.

Our lineup will be announced March 10, 2018 and the festival will be held April 6-8, 2018 at the Carlton Cinema.

http://www.springofhorror.com/
https://www.facebook.com/SpringOfHorror/
https://filmfreeway.com/TorontoSpringOfHorrorFantasy

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

Lari Teräs: We offer a fun environment to screen their work in downtown Toronto. We promote the films before and over the course of the festival; buying Facebook ads, blasting the trailers out not only promote us, but also the filmmakers and their films. We then continue promoting their films after the festival while visiting conventions such as Horror-Rama and on our social media.

If wanted, we give feedback to anyone who asks regardless of whether their film was accepted to screen or not. Toronto is also home to plenty of reviewers and distribution companies to whom we have been making our presence known more as we have grown.

After we ended up on FilmFreeway’s Top-100 Best Reviewed festivals list, we were then contacted by a very notable production company asking for insights on upcoming filmmakers and we were more than happy to drop a few names from our Alumni, hopefully aiding them further in their careers.

To top it off, in keeping with the fun nature of the festival, we award the best films with our coveted Cleaver the Beaver bobblehead(!) statue.

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

We think genre films and festivals should be fun and the atmosphere relaxed. In addition to the screenings and Q&A’s, the venue (Carlton Cinema) is fully licensed and we hold two bar nights as well as Toronto’s first and only annual Scream Queen/King competition. That is an experience by itself both to viewers and participants. All that combined makes it a very fun and social atmosphere.

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

We appreciate creativity and new ideas. The main criteria is that they are genre films (horror, fantasy, sci-fi, etc.) or something genre film fans would like to see. Assuming the film fits our categories, we rate how much we enjoyed watching the film, whether we would want to go see it ourselves and whether it had elements we had never seen before.

Part of the selection process is keeping a good variety and balance of different types of movies. Late night, we like to schedule something more gory and outrageous while daytime might be better suited for more contemplative films.

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

I do believe that nowadays there is a good variety of festivals out there catering to most types of films. Genre films like horror and fantasy might be underrepresented at the very high profile festivals, but horror fans are pretty good at finding their way to the genre film festivals.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Basically our love of movies. I’ve always enjoyed watching movies and hosting movie nights for friends at my house. After doing a festival tour with my film Blood Riders and experiencing a wide variety of festivals (good and not so good), we wanted to expand those movie nights to a festival of our own. We also realized that there was a large gap in horror film festivals in the spring in Toronto, so we decided to fill the void since we believe good genre films should be available all year long!

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

The submission process has been great. Last year we got on the Top-100 Best Reviewed Festivals list for quite a while, which definitely boosted our submissions significantly. Furthermore, we have noticed filmmakers whose works we have previously screened resubmitting to us, which is always nice to see. The only downside is that the amount of quality submissions we receive makes the selection process very hard.

7) Where do you see the festival by 2023?

As mentioned before, our submissions have increased significantly, and our attendance also hiked last year, so we’re looking to extend our festival by a few days very soon and hopefully have a weeklong event by 2023. We’ve always played music videos in front of our screenings and we’re looking into introducing live music at our parties in the coming years.

However, our main goal is to always keep the fun and social atmosphere going. Bigger, Better and Bloodier!

8) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

Donnie Darko. It is an extremely well written and beautifully shot film that really captivated me when I first saw it. The absolutely hilarious “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil” is a close second.

9) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

Interesting story supported by witty dialogue with complex characters drenched in blood. (Blood may or may not be optional depending on the genre…)

10) How is the film scene in your city?

The film scene in Toronto is very active both on the independent and studio film side. It is without a doubt one of the top markets in North America. The horror film scene should also get a special mention as it is very supportive of each other and a delightful group to be a part of.

tsst2.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Mike Messier (AVALONIA Film Festival)

festreviews Festival Interview, Interview, interviews, Uncategorized , , , , , ,

Avalonia Festival is named in honor of a continent lost is the mists of time, as if dissipated by magic; thus we are here to celebrate the unique Art of our own world of creation. Avalonia Festival II is now accepting submissions of short films, teasers, trailers, film photography and film posters.

Contact

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

Mike Messier: Our website Avalonia Festival sets us apart because we actually give our filmmakers the option to either share their actual film ​(or a teaser or a promotional still image)​ on our site to represent their film. This promotes both the work​ itself​ and the filmmaker​ ​as well as their cast and crew. ​Many or even most other film festivals concentrate so much on the live experience but are negligent to the online community which does not make much sense these days, as it’s very hard to get people to actually attend anything in person, while it’s relatively easy to get them to engage online. For those who can attend our live event on April 20, the admission is free ,while many festivals are very expensive So, Avalonia Festival plays well both as an in-person and an on-line experience. ​

In addition, Avalonia Festival’s Circle of Champions​ i​s a celebration of our Award Winning films with personalized Awards for each film. This is no copy and paste job​ for these Awards​! A lot of work goes into making the website very unique and to actually provide content and a web presence ​Avalonia ​filmmakers can be proud to be a part of!

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

We will share our Award Winning Films ​at Avalonia Festival II on April 20, 2018 ​in a really great venue called Rhodywood Studios ​in Providence, RI ​with cozy seating, great picture and sound and complimentary snacks. Even better? Free admission for the audience. Winning filmmakers who are able to attend will have a few moments for a Q and A with the live audience.

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Films must be 11 minutes or under to qualify as a “Short Film”, 3 minutes or under to qualify as a “180” film or 60 seconds or less to qualify as a 1 minute movie. We have many categories available to honor all types of films from doc to horror drama to music video to comedy to all points in between. We even have genres for films starring animals. We have no preference whether a film has already premiered at other festivals or is available online. We do prefer if the filmmakers allow us to share their film on our actual website, a status which is both optional for each film and can be changed down the road if need be​ with notice from the filmmaker​. Teasers, film posters and film photography may also enter in their own specific categories.

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

I can’t speak about the fairness of other festivals across the board because there are literally thousands if not tens of thousands of film festivals out there in the world. However, I will say, having entered many festivals myself and being both successful and, at times, disappointed, with my experiences, here are some lessons:

1) Art is a subjective medium, especially film. Being rejected by one, or even a thousand, film fests does not make any particular film “bad.” So do not be discouraged if your particular film is not a “festival darling”. Keep making movies!
2) Some films, quite simply, are just better geared for festivals, given whatever “trend” or “mood”, is going on at the moment of selection. So, that is not to say to conform your style or content to whatever is trendy, but just to say to “give yourself a break.”
3) Look over the fests you are entering and see how they match up in content with what your film is. For instance, there are fests that play specifically to low budget, edgy material. There are fests specific to Vampire films. There are some fests are fests with categories specific for Women Filmmakers, various ethnic groups, LGBQT etc so keep that in mind when choosing which fests to enter.
4) Also, considerations may be made by some fests for filmmakers within driving range of the actual live event. ​It’s more exciting to think that the actual filmmaker will be there in person, and so festivals may have a natural instinct to honor films geographically closer. ​
5) Shorter films usually have an advantage just by logistics. Feature films that have a possibility to make money are much more likely to get a distribution deal of some significance and shorts play better in fests. These things can change, though.

What I really tried to go from the get-go with Avalonia Festival is to have an online presence that honors both the filmmakers and the worldwide audience. If someone gives my website two hours of their time, they can really feel attuned to what the Avalonia Alumni is capable of. I ask any other film festival to show me a better​ -​ or more engaging – and free online – experience than Avalonia Festival.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

I wanted to provide a festival that would be the type of festival I would like to be a part of as a filmmaker myself.

I wanted to have a festival that had a website that actually gave the name of the winning films and even shared these films online for the biggest possible audience, beyond the seating capacity of whatever venue was used for a live audience. I’m not sure why so many​, otherwise wonderful, ​film fests have​ such lackluster or vague websites but they do. Anyone who wants to hire me to run their film festival website is encouraged to contact me and I’ll help them.

The other motivation is that Avalonia Festival is intended to bring views to my own project Distance from Avalon​ ​which is my Gothic narrative story about a school teacher and his philosophy about parallel universes. When people look into Avalonia Festival, they are also encouraged to look into Distance from Avalon.

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

So far, so good. I found FilmFreeway to be very user friendly as a filmmaker myself, and its entry process helped me win about half of my film and TV Awards. Running Avalonia Festival on it is also​ relatively​ easy, time consuming at times, but nothing I can’t handle. ​

7) Where do you see the festival by 2023?

That’s a great question. My ideal scenario were to be a global expansion and by that time, the Distance from Avalon films will have been made and I’ll be a highly respected and cherished individual. So we will see.

8) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

By now, Disregard the Vampire – A Mike Messier Documentary.

I’ve probably seen the most, because of the three years I put into it. This doc, which you may share with your readers, Matthew, directly lead to the creation of Avalonia Festival. Beyond my own work, Highlander, a fantasy time travel piece from 1986, starring Christopher Lambert, is the film I have seen the most and always enjoyed it.

9) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film exhibits a personal standpoint or observation of the world that both challenges and engages an audience.

10) How is the film scene in your city?

The film scene is my exact city of Wickford, Rhode Island is more or less myself but about 20 minutes north of me my friend Tommy DeNucci of Cranston, RI is getting ready to shoot Vault, a major motion picture in the gangster genre with big names and an hour south of me our mutual buddy David Gere is producing several big action and horror films out of Cromwell, CT. Between the three of us, there are some nice things happening.

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Banks Helfrich (LIFE SCREENINGS Festival)

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, interviews, Uncategorized , , , , , ,

This 80 minute event goes beyond movie night and into a shared experience which includes films, filmmakers, lovers of film and engaging conversation. International filmmakers are Skyped in to partake in an encouraged, relaxed exchange of ideas.

Contact

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

Banks Helfrich: Life Screenings exposes filmmakers to inquisitive audiences. Through Skyping, it also fosters direct feedback for the filmmaker.

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

Life Screenings is an exploration of life through film. Audiences receive direct contact with the filmmaker’s minds through a thorough talkback.

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Life Screenings criteria encompasses two qualifications: 1. All films must be under 15 minutes; 2. All films must show a world that we want to live in.

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

I can only speak for Life Screenings and we specifically search out films which meet our criteria.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Life Screenings sole purpose is to share a world that we want to live in through film; to connect filmmakers and film lovers in a conversation to better understand each other.

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

The FilmFreeway submission process has been thoroughly helpful in connecting filmmakers from around the world to us.

7) Where do you see the festival by 2023?

Life Screenings 2023 will be in every major city in the world; it will be invited to the top attended film festivals in the world to curate at least one two hour block; it will be invited into people’s living rooms to share with others in a communal intimate atmosphere.

8) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

Amelie

9) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film is one that has a connective quality of specificity in telling a story based on the human condition. In other words, it’s story.

10) How is the film scene in your city?

Orlando has a thriving educational film scene with three colleges. It is exploding with students learning to tell a story with moving pictures.
 

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every single month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 3 times a month. Go to http://www.wildsoundfestival.com for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Elena Altman (BASH- Bay Area Short Film Festival)

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, Uncategorized , , , ,

BASH – Bay Area Shorts Film Festival takes place at the ROXIE Historical Theater in San Francisco, CA- Each year, the Annual BASH Film Festival will continue its tradition of showcasing a diverse sampling of BAY AREA made shorts and mini features, award-winning directors along with amateurs breaking in the industry and blowing everyone away..

https://filmfreeway.com/BASHBayAreaShortFilmsFestival8

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

Elena Altman: Providing an Excellent Platform for Bay Area Filmmakers to Showcase their Work.

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2018)?

Expect to see the Top Selected Bay Area Made Short Films Showcasing and Vote for Your Favorite Bay Area Film of 2018!

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films?

They must be Bay Area Made to Qualify

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

I think that there are so many movies being submitted these days, that it is hard to get chosen.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

We want to continue to provide Bay Area filmmakers with a place to showcase their work.

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

Very easy

7) Where do you see the festival by 2020?

We hope to run in more often and in more theaters around the Bay.

8) What film have you seen the most times in your life?

I would have to say Beetlejuice – lol

9) In one sentence, what makes a great film?

Good story, great acting, and amazing camera work!

10) How is the film scene in your city?

Very much alive and thriving! /

bash.jpg

Interview with Festival Director Joshua Trigg (THUNDERDANCE Film Festival)

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, interviews, matthew toffolo wildsound, Uncategorized , , , , , ,

Thunderdance film festival is a bi-annual event set in the heart of Hackney. TFF focuses on independent fiction, fashion, music and experimental films. Winning films will be screened in local cinemas followed by meet and greets and afterparties. Thunderdance is a festival for the ultimate in new wave London film culture.

https://www.thunderdancefilmfestival.com/

1) What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers? 

Thunderdance is a film festival that creates a platform for independent film makers to submit an array of different types of work from fashion, fiction to music videos and experimental films. Something we wanted to bring to the table was a diverse judging panel. From cultural influencers like Sue Tilly, to Colin Salmon (James Bond) judging certain categories. We always want to have exciting and recognisable names for the film makers to feel eager about. So not just limiting judges to those within our own industry, but broadening the spectrum of people who are involved. We want to make sure we are connecting amazing film makers with amazing people from all corners of the industry at the event.

2) What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)? 

Sadly, the tickets are all sold out this time around! However, you can expect a varied arrangement of screening material. A diverse set of films from all over the globe. Something that is integral to what we want to do with this festival is to support independent cinema. We hope to always have the events in small, art house, boutique cinemas. This year starting around the East London area, broadening this in the next few years. Our first screening for the festival will be taking place at the Castle Cinema, which has an amazing history and been re opened via a kickstater programme. This is a really beautiful, almost 20’s style bar cinema. Here we will be screening and holding the afterparty which gives the film makers the best opportunities to network.

3) What are the qualifications for the selected films? 

Really there are no qualifications needed. Just good film making. There are a bunch of categories, and we want all film makers to be able to submit their work. In the future we would like to be able to expand this to a student category to help support getting people into the industry. To be honest, we are just curious about the artistic voice of the individuals.

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

No I don’t think films get a fair shake from festivals all the time. For us the most important thing is that if it’s a good film we’re going to champion it. Doesn’t matter where its from, who’s made it. If it’s great it’s great and we want to show it. In the future we would love to get good, interesting, important professionals from the industry to give critical feedback if film makers desired when submitting their film. This could at least give the film maker the opportunity to understand why they may not have been selected. We want to help film makers not discourage them.

5) What motivates you and your team to do this festival? 

We are genuinely excited to create something new, fresh and different from anything else we have seen in the circuit. Being a director myself, it’s a similar feeling when I feel I’ve nailed it with a script and we start moving into production. It’s that excitement of knowing you are about to make something really cool and that pre-anticipation is how we feel about this project. It’s that feeling of creating something. I know film makers can relate to that. Within that excitement, we are driven to connect film makers and support artistic communities.

6) How has your FilmFreeway submission process been? 

Film freeway has always been a very useful tool for submitters as it is simple and easy to use, there was a gap in the market and they filled it. Kudos to Film Freeway.
 
7) Where do you see the festival by 2020? 

By 2020, we’d like to have moved from cities further then Europe. But we want to take our time, as its important to us that we find cultural and artistic hubs where local curators can bring to the table the same sort of elements that make Thunderdance London different and exciting.
 

 

thunderdance film festival

Interview with Artistic Director Maeve McGrath (KERRY FILM FESTIVAL)

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, interviews, matthew toffolo wildsound , , , , , ,

 

KFF is renowned for celebrating the work of young filmmaking talent through a well established and lively short film competition that has been supported and endorsed by luminaries from the world of film such as Cillian Murphy, director Paul Greengrass, Jeremy Irons, Liam Neeson, and Gabriel Byrne. Over the past 17 years KFF has become a vital element of Kerry’s cultural landscape offering a unique film experience to the local community as well as creating a ‘must attend’ cultural tourism event for visitors to the county.

Contact

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

Maeve McGrath: We hope that we are providing a platform for new and emerging film makers while also screening established film makers. We really want to being an industry experience to the festival so that the film maker can network with like-minded people and also see some incredible films. All our film makers get access to all screenings for free.

What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

We have a really varied selection of short film this year, we also have our Discovery Features which is a platform for First time feature film makers. we have quality music documentary along with premieres and an industry day event with in conversations and panel discussions

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

They have to be 20 minutes or less for Shorts and made in the previous year. Features have to be 60 minutes +

Films selected for the programme are then are in consideration for 7 x awards and a shortlist are selected by a Jury Panel. KFF doesn’t have an audience award.

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

I know that at Kerry Film Festival, each film is seen by up to 6 people as they are viewed. We view every film from start to finish and every film will be discussed and appraised before selection. We are rigorous in our selection. We have to be. We get hundreds and hundreds of films submitted but at the end of the day it is our Jury panel that select winners.

I understand that some festivals may not be as meticulous as we are but we can stand over every film selected. We have limited space for films to screen so it can be very difficult to shortlist when we fall in love with a film and can’t fit it in the schedule and that can happen frequently.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

I love film, especially short film and also, music documentary. My masters thesis followed the route of the Irish short film to the Oscars so I researched that to pieces!

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

Great, the judging panel is very handy and accessible and you vote in areas of the film from cinematography to direction so it gives you a good reading of the film when scores are combined.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

We are 18 years old this year so we will have passed our 20th Film Festival by then. I am hoping it will continue to grow and provide a screening space for film makers.

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

Twelve Angry Men

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

Simple storytelling brought to the screen with honesty.

How is the film scene in your city?

In Kerry there is a real surge in film making. Creative Kerry and Film Kerry are building on the desire to film in the beautiful locations in Kerry, think Star Wars and Skellig Michael. Feature films are being made by innovative, creative local film makers. A very vibrant county.

kerry-1.jpg
 

****

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

SUBMIT your TV PILOT Screenplay or TV SPEC Script
Voted #1 TV Contest in North America.		 Screenplay CONTESTSUBMIT your Short Screenplay or FEATURE Script
FULL FEEDBACK on all entries. Get your script performed

Interview with Festival Director David W. King (FLATHEAD INTERNATIONAL CINEMAFEST (FLIC))

festreviews Festival Interview, film festival, film festival reviews, Interview, interviews, matthew toffolo wildsound , , , , , , ,

 

Flathead Lake International Cinemafest (FLIC), runs the weekend of January 26-28, 2018.

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

David W. King: FLIC is giving professional-grade and novice filmmakers a venue at which to present their work. A smaller festival like ours gives more filmmakers the opportunity to have their work screened for an audience. It’s also proving to be a reputable screening venue for international filmmakers. For some reason, FLIC is now a favorite destination for Iranian filmmakers, with dozens submitting films each year.

What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival in January, 2018?

The Flathead Lake International Cinemafest is a wonderful weekend celebration of cinema. Filmmaker discussions following screenings are popular. Social gatherings at local establishments. A quality presentation of films, with the popular FLIC sizzle reel introducing each screening block. Standing ovations. Great audience enthusiasm. And awards celebration wraps up the weekend, with encore screenings presented the following week.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

FLIC film fair ranges from 1-minute shorts to 2-hour features, covering a broad array of topics and genres. FLIC has some content guideline that prohibit extreme violence and adult content, while making some exceptions for compelling storylines. The bottom-line is how interesting is a film? How watchable is it? Does it tell its story effectively? It is good?

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

I do think some films don’t get a fair shake from film festivals. I think it’s easy for festival runners to get a bit snooty about what they’ll show; if a film isn’t practically perfect, it might be put aside, when many in the audience might have overlooked its flaws and seen it beauty of spirit or other intangible qualities. Some people aren’t particularly good filmmakers, but they might be very passionate about their subject matter. As a judge, I think it’s important to look for the heart of a film as much as its production value.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

We love movies and we see how much it means to filmmakers to have their work screened. We also see how our community embraces the film arts every January. FLIC has become a destination for some and a welcome respite from winter’s chill for others. Cinema has that power.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

We love FilmFreeway. It’s a very easy site to use and gives you all the data you need in a well organized, logical manner. I’m a big fan.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Hopefully FLIC will have grown in size and quality over these next two years. We want this film festival to become more and more of a destination for filmmaker and an audience that appreciates cinema from across the globe.

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

Planes, Trains, and Automobiles!

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film tells a story so effectively that the viewer gets lost in that story for its duration.

How is the film scene in your city?

The film scene in Polson, Montana is quite limited 51 weeks out of the year. However, in January, the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest presents films from the far reaches of the world to this little community — and Polson, Montana becomes its own unassuming center of the cinema universe!

flathead lake-1

****

David W. King’s film and television career spans 30 years and many facets of live-action and animation production. He has 124 IMDB credits dating back to his first days as a production assistant on an obscure 1980 Peter Fonda film called Rough Riders. David’s subsequent positions and credits have included Vice President of Production, Supervising Producer, Producer, Director, Associate Producer, Production Manager, Post-Production Supervisor, Executive in Charge of Production, Writer, Cinematographer and Editor. He’s worked for major studios like Universal, Walt Disney, Hanna-Barbera and 20th Century Fox. At Disney and Universal, David produced feature-length projects like Lady and the Tramp 2: Scamp’s Adventure and Balto 2 and 3. David also wrote or co-wrote 8 feature screenplays, most of which were optioned. David moved to Polson, Montana in 2012, where he set up his own production company, David W. King Pictures. Samples of his work are available at his website, DavidWKing.com.

As a judge, David finds it great fun to discover little gems as he and his fellow judges review scores of FLIC entries each year. There are always surprises and spirited discussions on the part of the judges, whose tastes vary much like those found around water-coolers the world over.

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

SUBMIT your TV PILOT Screenplay or TV SPEC Script
Voted #1 TV Contest in North America.		 Screenplay CONTESTSUBMIT your Short Screenplay or FEATURE Script
FULL FEEDBACK on all entries. Get your script performed