festival reviews

Interview with Festival Director Michael McLaughlin (Disappear Here Film Festival)

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The Disappear Here Film Festival is a first of its kind in Donegal, Ireland. The inaugural DHFF is a 3 day festival taking place in Ballyliffin, Co Donegal from (Culture Night) Friday 22nd September 2017.  Our versatile programme will include screenings, talks, educational workshops and a host of entertainment events through which we will provide a unique festival experience.

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

Michael McLaughlin: It is offering them the opportunity to have their work seen by an audience that wouldn’t necessarily get a chance to see it. It also gives them the chance to network and make connections with others working within the industry. Gaining feedback from an impartial audience is something that can be worthwhile, especially for those that are starting out in the industry. To showcase your work on a big screen, in an environment such as a film festival is a an excellent platform for all filmmakers to avail of.

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

The festival is for anyone that loves films, as well as those working or considering working within the industry in the future. We are aiming to offer something for children and adults alike. Disappear Here Film Festival will be another opportunity for the people to get together and celebrate the creative talent on offer through the medium of film. There will be various art installations dotted around the village, allowing people to experience not only film but also, other forms of creative expression.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

There are no set qualifications and we decided against running with a theme for this inaugural year. What we are after is film making that is engaging, that is entertaining and ultimately that challenges audiences, & makes an audience feel something.

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

Yes, I would probably accept that, but obviously I can’t speak on behalf of other film festivals. Films that are maybe high quality and tick all the boxes in terms of one panel member, might be deemed exceptional while another might deem it average, meaning that some films get dropped and don’t make it to selection. Also programmers have a very specific programme duration for short films, so lots of longer short films cannot get shown. My advice to filmmakers making shorts, is to actually keep them short – below 12mins max.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

The film festival came about by a desire to showcase the talents of
independent film making in Ireland and to allow audiences in Donegal
access to films they wouldn’t ordinarily be able to see.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

In a word, incredible. It streamlined the whole application and submission process. It allowed us to make direct contact iwhtdirectors to clarify any information during the submission process. It made the experience more seamless and less stressful.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

As a major player not just on the national scene here in Ireland, but internationally as well.

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

True Romance! Loved the screenplay by Tarantino and it’s one of Tony Scotts best as far as I’m concerned. Also, like everyone else I fell in love with Alabama, just a little bit!

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film needs to be always entertaining, never ever boring.

How is the film scene in your city?

Getting better all the time! Lots of great filmmakers, crew & locations that have to be seen to be believed! Actually Star Wars- The Last Jedi filmed here last year, so we can’t wait to see our area showcased for an international audience in that film.

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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.

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Interview with Festival Director Barry J. Gillis (Edmonton Festival of Fear)

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This is a great opportunity for Filmmakers World Wide to Submit their Films. Plans are already in the works to expand the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR for 2018, and beyond.

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

Barry J. Gillis: This is the First Year for the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR International Film Festival, which will be a Two Day Film Festival this year, and a Three Day Film Festival next year. We plan on adding more days year after year, as we continue to expand and grow. Our Deadline for Submissions ended yesterday, and we haven’t had a chance to Promote the Official Selections, as they have not been Announced yet. However, when we do Announce the Official Selections that will play on the Big Screen at the Landmark City Centre, in Edmonton, Alberta.

We plan on Promoting the hell out of all of the Fantastic Films that will Screen at this years Film
Festival, and we would expect that the Filmmakers will be very happy with the way we Promote, and push their Amazing Feature Films and Shorts, and the way we are Promoting the Film Festival in general. For instance we already are set to have a 30 Second Film Festival Promo Film play before every Movie that people go to see at the World Class Landmark Cinemas, City Centre Location. The Promo will play on 9 Big Screens, before each and every Movie that people watch every day for 29 days before the Film Festival, and it lets everyone know where they can buy Tickets, which further leads them to all of the Movies that will play, along with Trailers, photos, and info about all of the Filmmakers Movies… The Promo will play in front of huge Audiences who are out to see the latest Great Movies that Landmark Cinemas is playing. These are Huge Audiences, that will be attending movies such as Stephen King’s “IT”. We have been sinking a fair amount of money into Promoting the Film Festival, and we have Sold alot of VIP TICKETS before any of the Movies have even been Announced, and we expect that when the Official Selections are Announced, and when the Public sees what they are in for, Ticket Sales are going to go through the roof.

Landmark Cinemas 9, City Centre Location, is a First Class Venue, and for for all of the Filmmakers who will be attending the Film Festival, they are going to be very happy that they Submitted their Movie to the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR.

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

You can expect to be entertained like there is no tomorrow. You can expect to have the time of your life at the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR International Film Festival. You can expect to get your monies worth and more. You can expect a Grand Opening on the Red Carpet on Friday the 13th of October, at 6:30pm, before the OPENING NIGHT EXTRAVAGANZA which Starts on the Big Screen at 7pm sharp, with a Phenomenal Feature Film. (which we cannot Announce the name of, until we Announce everything on September 7th.) You can expect that all of the Official Selections are NEW FEATURE FILMS and SHORTS, that have never been seen anywhere, aside from other Film Festivals, unless they are making their World Premiere at our Film Festival.

The line up also includes, North America Premieres, Canada Premieres, Western Canada Premieres, etc. None of the Movies have ever played the Big Screen in Edmonton, Canada. You can expect Films that have Won Awards at other Film Festivals, and you can expect Films that may have been overlooked by other Film Festivals.

You can also expect the Time Of Your Life at the After Party, which will be at Fionn Macool’s Irish Pub, which is right beside Landmark Cinemas. We have Free Food coming in at 11:30pm, (First Come Firsy Come First Served) on Saturday October 14th, afer we give out the Awards for Best Feature Film, Best Short Film, etc, etc. The Filmmakers who Win, will be given the coveted, COREY FELDMAN AWARD OF EXCELLENCE, Which the Film Festival determines. And then there will be AWARDS that the Audience Votes on through Ballots, and the Winners will recieve an AUDIENCE AWARD, as determined by the Audience. People can also expect to be treated like Gold by the wonderful Staff at Landmark Cinemas… Landmark has been so co-operative in this entire process, from Territory Sales Manager Kristin Woodford,(Kushneryk) to Director of Corporate Sales & Sponsorship Scot Benson, in Calgary, to the General Manager of the City Centre Location, Renee Gobeil, to all of the front line workers that we encountered. Everyone is in for the time of their lives…

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

The Official Selections must be Completed on or after January 1st, 2016. We have had to disqualify some Films, because they were Completed before that date. However, because they overlooked the Rules, and paid a Submission Fee to Enter the Competition, Vice President, Len J. Phillips and I decided that we would give all of the Filmmakers a FREE WAIVER, for the next Film
that they Submit to the Film Festival, and in a couple of cases, we did not have to wait until next years Film Festival, or at some other time in the future, because a couple of the Filmmakers, got back to us right away and Submitted another Movie free of charge.

The Official Selections must not be boring. We are looking for Feature Films and Shorts that excite us, and will excite our Audiences. I hate to say this but we have had some Feature Films that came in for instance that had great Movie Trailers that would bring in the fans by the boatload. However, upon watching the actual Movie… 20 and 30 minutes in, etc, etc, there was nothing happening… Some of these Movies had the great pay off at the end, etc, etc, but we are looking for Movies that grab us right away, and turn the excitement level up right away, and then keep the pace going…

Some of these Feature Films were awesome in every way, and some were made on big budgets, and the Acting was top notch, and the Cinematography, and Screenplay, etc, etc, are World Class, but these kinds of Movies where nothing much is happening for long periods of time, are better off playing at another Film Festival where Boring Drama is King… Yes we want great Stories, and yes, we love great Acting, and even great Drama, and yes these Movies were great, but if the Movie is too boring, and the pace is slow as hell, and we are not being entertained every step of the way, save your Submission Fee, and Submit your Feature Film to another Film Festival.

You must be over 18 to Attend our Film Festival, and the Official Films are for Mature Audiences, not the faint at heart. This is the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR International Film Festival, not the ANNE OF GREEN GABLES FAMILY FILMS FESTIVAL, lol..

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

Yes I do, and I truly believe that, and not only do I believe that, I know it because I am a Writer, Producer, Director myself, and I have dealt with various Film Festivals over the years. However, on the other end of the coin, Film Festivals have time constraints and cannot Screen every Movie that has been Submitted. There are some great Films that we would like to play at this years Film Festival, but we just cannot fit these Films in, and we had to make some tough choices, and in some cases, it bothers me to no end, that a certain Film will not play at this years Film Festival, because we just cannot fit all of the Films in this year that we would like to Screen. However, if the Film was Completed after January 1st, 2017 it will still be Eligible to play at next years Film Festival, and we will have an extra day, with more time slots to fit in more Films.

I not only believe that some Films are over looked, I know it from hearing back from the Filmmakers themselves. We have contacted some of the Filmmakers to let them know that there Film was in high contention to play at the Film Festival, and to ask them one question or another about their Film, and in many cases they said that they Submitted their Movie to other Film Festivals, and we were the first Film Festival to Contact them.

Some of these Movies have been Completed in 2016, and have had World Premieres, and only Screened at a Festival or two, and even though their Films have been Submitted to other Film Festivals, but never got Selected to play at other Film Festivals, and these are great Films that we are talking about, and I would have been the first person to Select a certain Film over, another Film that the Film Festival Screened…

But at the same time, every Film Festival has their own needs, and they have their own ways that they want to Program the Film Festival, plus, as I was mentioning before, there are only so many time slots, and tough choices have to be made between what you are going to Screen at your Film Festival, and what you are not going to Screen at your Film Festival. Your Film could be great, but maybe the Film Festival thinks the Film is too long, or two short to Screen at their Film Festival. Maybe they already have 10 Feature Length and Short Films set to play their Film Festival from the United States, Canada, or wherever, and they want to now include a Film from Germany… I mean there is a tonne of reasons why a Film might not play a Film Festival, outside of whether the Film is a great Film or not.

I guess at the end of the day, I see it as a yes, and no answer, on the one hand your Film may get overlooked, I mean who knows if every Film Festival is even watching all of the Films??? Your guess is as good as mine. However, these Film Festivals would be crazy not to watch all of the Films, because you never know what you may discover… We don’t build our lineup on what STIGES, or FANTASIA, or any other Film Festival has Screened… or just because your Film Screened at FRIGHT FEST, doesn’t mean that you are automatically going to have your Film Screen at the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR International Film Festival. We watch all of the Films, and give them all a chance, and if we believe that the Film should play at our Film Festival,
we will Screen it, if we can fit it in. But, as I also say, sometimes you have to choose one Film over another because maybe one Film is 30 Minutes, and the other is 8 Minutes, and you only have room to Screen an 8 Minute Film, because all of the Time Slots are taken… This is a big reason why I look forward to next year, when we will have Three Days to Screen Movies, and then keep adding more days, and more time slots to play more Films at the Film Festival in the future… A Film Festival also has a tough choices when it comes to various Films, because I know in our case, for instance you have three great Films that you would love to Screen at the Film Festival, and it’s tough to decide what should be played and what should not be played, because the Films are so amazing… But, maybe one of the Films is going to be a World Premiere, or a Canadian Premiere… Whereas, maybe the other Film(s) are only going to be a Western Canada Premiere, or an Edmonton Premiere, because the Film already played at the great Calgary International Film Festival, and it has already Premiered in Alberta… That’s not to say we won’t Screen your Film if it played Calgary, but we have a choice to make between two awesome Films… We also want to Screen a few Amazing Local Films in the lineup as well. These are Movies that were made in the Province of Alberta, and it comes down to those kinds of decisions as well…

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

First of all, I have been secretly thinking about Founding a Film Festival for over 30 years… I grew up in a time when you could go to the Saturday or Sunday Matinee a couple of blocks up the road from where I grew up in Parkdale, Toronto, and watch Feature Films and Shorts all day long. For example, when I went to see JAWS in 1977, or whatever year it was, they would build JAWS up, or any other New Feature Length Film, and it might play at let’s say, 7pm… But, before all of that went down, (getting to see JAWS) you would get to the Movie Theatre early in the day, and they would be Screening other Films that were already released. So before JAWS, you might watch ENTER THE DRAGON, Starring Bruce Lee, and then they would play a THREE STOOGES, Short, or an Animated Short, or two, or three, and then they might play an Alfred Hitchcock Movie that was already Released, years previously, or a Western, or a Comedy, or whatever… These were great times to be growing up in, and I used to go to the Movies almost every week, and I would see all kinds of great Feature Films and Shorts… From LAUREL AND HARDY, to SQUIRM, and all of the old TARZAN MOVIES, and the list goes on and on… This was Cinema at it’s finest… You would watch all of these Movies, but in the back of your mind, you new the Big Movie of the day, (JAWS) was going to be playing at 7pm… You would be buying popcorn, candy bars, licorice, chips, and drinking pop all day at the Theatre, and after the Big Movie of the day was over, they were still Screening another Movie or two…

It’s not like that anymore, but, people can get a similar “fix” by Attending a Film Festival… And I can hardly wait to see all of these Movies play on the Big Screen, even though I have already watched all of the Movies already. I can hardly wait to see the Films Screen one after the other, and re-live that experience. An experience, for the most part that you can only get at a Film Festival. The only difference between watching Movies all day on a Saturday or Sunday when I was a kid, is that these will be all New Feature and Short Films, that were Completed after January 1st, 2016, and have not been Released anywhere yet. We don’t Screen Movies that
are Available on Youtube, Vimeo, or anywhere else on the Internet either. If the Movie has been Privately Screened, or it has played other Film Festivals, that’s fine, but if it has already been Released, it won’t be playing the Film Festival…

Personally, I am motivated to treat people the way that I was treated at the World Class Calgary International Film Festival by awesome people like Executive Director Steve Schroeder, Programmer Brenda Lieberman, and one of the Programmers at the time, Bruce Fletcher.

I really got to know Bruce Fletcher, and he was instrumental in getting my Feature Film Screened, in San Francisco, at ANOTHER HOLE IN THE HEAD FILM FESTIVAL. Bruce Showed me around San Francisco when I flew down there for the U.S. Premiere of THE KILLING GAMES, and he’s just an all around great guy. That’s how I want the Filmmakers, and Fans to be treated at our Film Festival.

The entire Team is Motivated by Films, Films, and more Films… We love discovering Great Films. If we can make a few dollars on the side, that would be great too… But the Motivation is our extreme passion for wanting to Screen Great Movies, and having everyone experience the times of their lives…

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

The Film Freeway is the GREATEST Site known to human kind… The Submission Process has been FLAWLESS, and I cannot say enough about the Customer Service that I get from Anna, and others at the Film Freeway. We had tonnes and tonnes of Submissions through the Film Freeway, and we are very happy with the Film Freeway, and have no plans of Signing up with any other site… EVER… 🙂

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

I see the Festival as a 5 or 7 Day Film Festival by 2020…

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

Aside from THNGS (1989), Starring Amber Lynn, which I have watched who knows how many times, at Screenings and Events, and at home every now and then to try and figure out how we ever got this monstrosity of a Terrible Film completed and Released by Mel Lieberman in the first place, and how it ever became a Feature Film with a huge Cult Following, lol Hmmm… I would have to say I am not 100% sure, but I have watched the following Movies alot of times. SCARFACE, TAXI DRIVER, COMBAT SHOCK, (the Uncut version) RAMBO (2008), which is my Favorite RAMBO Movie of all time, and one of my favorite top Movies of all time… UNLAWFUL ENTRY Starring Ray Liotta, Kurt Russel, and Madeleine Stowe is another Movie that I have watched many times… And come to think of it the Italian Film CINEMA PARADISO. I just love that Movie, and it’s time for another viewing… The Short Film that I have watched more than any other, is POLICE STATE by Director NICK ZEDD…

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A Great Film has to touch you, excite you, bring you to a place where everything else in your life is forgotten, where nothing else in life matters, with the exception of this great film that you are
watching and experiencing right now…

How is the film scene in your city?

The Film Scene in Edmonton is huge… Edmonton has the biggest Movie going Population in Canada. More people go to the Movie Theatre here to watch Movies than in any other City in Canada. I believe that is Per Capita… but I’m not 100% sure… But we are number one over my hometown of Toronto, and other Cities such as Montreal, Calgary, and Vancouver. People love going to the Movies in Edmonton… In Terms of Filmmaking… There are alot of people making Independent Feature Length, and Short Films in Edmonton, and we have some great Filmmakers making great Films in this City, and I believe that it is going to continue and thrive here in Edmonton, as far as Filmmaking goes…

I believe that we could be doing more in General as a City to influence Producers, and Directors, and Hollywood in general, to Shoot their next Feature Film in Edmonton, and if I had anything to do with any part of the process to bring Hollywood to Edmonton, there would be alot of changes in the way we do business here as a City, and Hollywood, and the Big Independents, etc, would be coming to Edmonton by the Boatloads to shoot their Feature Length Films in Edmonton. Edmonton is truly a great City. I was born and raised in Toronto, but in terms of the friendliness factor… Edmonton is leaps and bounds over Toronto when in terms of being a friendly City… I moved here because I found the people so friendly and relaxed… Toronto is more of a rat race… Toronto is a great City… Don’t get me wrong, I love visiting my hometown, and going to see my mother and friends, and having a great overall time in Toronto at various attractions, etc, etc… However, there is something special about Edmonton, and the people here. It is a very friendly city, and very easy to get to know people here, and there is always something new to discover in Edmonton, even if you were born here, or living here for almost 20 years, like I have… There is always something new to discover in this great City.

In any event, maybe we can Attract Hollywood, along with all kinds of other Production companies to shoot their Feature Films in Edmonton. Maybe even the Edmonton FESTIVAL OF FEAR International Film Festival can be instrumental in that process as well…

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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.

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Interview with Festival Director Terrence Sanders (Platform Film Festival)

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Platform Film Festival’s mission is to celebrate the masters of filmmaking and discover the next generation of innovative creatives. Platform is the connective tissue that bonds the wondrous union between art and film. PFF will present an uncensored view of the World through the most important and relevant artists and filmmakers creating 2D and 3D work without fear, monetary incentives or artificial borders. PFF is a creative forum where like minds can have a sense of community being celebrated by the publlc-at-large and their contemporaries.

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

Terrence Sanders: Platform Film Festival mission is to provide a necessary platform for filmmakers in hopes of creating a greater awareness for important films.

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

TS: Eclectic programming with an artistic bend. Films that entertain and educate. New discoveries that will resonate with the viewer long after they leave the venue.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

TS: Voice, substance and vision.

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

TS: It’s a power struggle whenever money is part of the equation. Each film submitted is competing for exposure and notoriety. Each jury favors a different trend, celebrity, subject matter or theme on a yearly basis. What’s favorable this year might not be favorable the next. Sometimes the unknown underdog is the winner and most times whether we like it or not it’s the financed studio favorite.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

TS: The love of the medium. I owe everything that I am today to the transformative power of cinema. I want to share great films with my audience.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

TS: It’s been great. We were going to partner with Withoutabox but the process was complicated to say the least. Filmfreeway was simple and personable. It was a great fit. I hope to grow with this company and community.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

TS: Joining the list of respected, important and relevant film festivals in the World.

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

TS: I’m a film freak. I have literally watched 5 movies a day for that last 25 years. I’ve seen everything. A few favorites are; The Life Aquatic with Steve Zissou, The Libertine, A Pure Formality, The Royal Tenenbaums, Blue Caprice, Ballast, O Brother Where Art Thou?, In the Mood For Love, Maderlay, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead, Gangster No. 1, etc.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

TS: Three words: writing, cinematography and performance.

How is the film scene in your city?

TS: I live in Los Angeles – what do you think?

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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 Orvil Kunga (Afrikans On Film Festival)

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A unique opportunity to see films rarely seen on the big screen. A well attended festival noted for shining a light on the multilayered aspect of Afrikan filmmaking. It boasts informed discussions, workshops, a unique Afrikan craft market and great cultural food (vegan options available). With performance, poetry and story-telling thrown in for good measure. A true Afrikan experience that will tingle the senses, inform, insight and educate.

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

Orvil Kunga: Afrikans on Film festival has been successful in premiering work for filmmakers who are often overlooked in the wider discourse of mainstream cinema.

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

Our festival exists solely to promote the multilayered aspect of African centred, creativity. Those who attend our festival should expect films from the African continent, along with African centred films from US, UK and Europe. Many of them are UK premiers. All have been selected because they speak to the essence of the on-going journey of the African body.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

We look at films across the board. Animation, documentaries, drama and even music videos.

There is no criteria as such. As the curator, I am interested in films which skilfully portray where African filmmaking is now but also where these contemporary stories sit within Africa’s uniquely spiritual nature of story-telling. Whilst a few of the films screened might be made by non-Black, African people (either from the continent or the diaspora), it is ultimately, the African-centred nature that forms the main criteria for selection.

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

Certainly. African people within the creative industries are often marginalised in the West and the African narrative has almost been erased from mainstream TV and cinema globally. The representation of the African body has historically been mediated through a white (all too often male) gaze. This is problematic and has severely hindered the African’s ability to tell our human stories to the world.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Our lived experience guides our passion for creating a platform for pushing the multi-prismic nature of these stores. It is great when we see this work on the big screen. It’s great when we see a room full of young and older people, their eyes wide open looking at the screen, in total awe at the quality, richness and range of these stories.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

Its been amazing! Although we’ve been running for 6 years, we’ve not tried FilmFreeway before and have been blown away by the amount of submissions received in such a short space of time since registering on the site. If there is a gripe, then it would be that some people avoided (deliberate or otherwise), the fact that we seek African films. Films either made by Africans or films which focus on African people.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Our Afrikans on film festival has been serving films to the public for over 5 years, free of charge. Which is amazing! It has been partially funded by a small organisation in London, called Peckham and Nunhead Free Film Festivals, who receive funding from the local borough of Southwark and thankfully collaborate with us in order to get these beautiful films on screen. Whilst the ‘free’ film festival may well continue under this relationship, Afrikans on Film as a subsidiary film provider, seeks wider sponsorship as we aim to push the festival to twice a year and provide pop-up screenings throughout the year. We hope to provide an out-reach programme, working with creatives here in the UK and linking them with creatives around the African world. If all goes to plan, by 2020 we should be bigger and better!

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

Aah difficult one! Black Girl (Ousmane Sembene), Sankofa (Haile Gerima). BAFTA nominated, Short film – Mwansa The Great (Rungana Nyoni), watched and shared many times! Battledream Chronicles (Alain Bidard). An animated feature from Guadeloupe. The first feature from Guadeloupe is a gem on many levels and I’ve watched it too many times! Summer Of Gods (Eliciana Nascimento), Oya Rise of The Orishas (Nosa Igbinedion). Award-winning web-series Ackee and Saltfish (Cecile Emeke).

I know you said ‘film’ but an unfair question deserves an unfair answer!lol

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film speaks to an inert truth, appeals to the viewer through codes and tropes which unites the soul and lingers on, connecting others as its memories ripple.

How is the film scene in your city?

In London the independent scene is vibrant.

Online platforms have changed the game as cities/filmmakers become more and more interconnected.

Although all the big and medium films come through this city, the home of BFI’s LFF (London Film Festival), Afrikans on Film festival, attempts to serve a need and we feel, remains among the best places to see unique work from up-coming filmmakers who are equally passionate about sharing the Afrikan story.

‘K’ in Afrikan represents a disruption from the contemporary spelling, echoing the politicised presence of the festival and the consciousness of Afrikan-centred creative.

 

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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 Co-Festival Director Mia Davis (Queen City Cinephiles)

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Queen City Cinephiles is a an independent film-screening & discussion group based out of Charlotte, NC. The are committed to showcasing short and full length independent features at no cost to the filmmakers, exposing film aficionados to more independent film, and supporting local filmmakers and around the globe.

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

Mia Davis: We build a bridge between filmmakers and film appreciators. For every film we select, we provide the filmmakers with the opportunity to introduce their film, and be present (live or via skype) for our audience discussion. We do not charge entry fees. As part of our Agreements, we ask the filmmakers for social media pages, and we share them online before the event, on our facebook event page, and while we are at the screening. During the Q&A, we encourage the filmmakers to let the audience know where their other works can be found.

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

If you mean our film screenings, you can expect arrangements of indie films in blocks at a convenient location with available refreshments, audience participation in film discussion, and to learn more about the film industry.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

The film has to be independently made, and the filmmaker has to sign an Agreement with us, showing they have the rights to the film and sharing our facebook page and event on their social media pages.

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

I think it’s hard to find the right audience, self-promote, and film festivals (mostly) charge entry fees and having contracts preventing a selected film to be shown elsewhere during the festival.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

To clarify, this is not a film festival. We have screenings, roughly once or twice a month. I am motivated by my appreciation for independent film, and everything that goes into it, combining with a genuine interest in pushing local business/industry support.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

FilmFreeway has been great! We have several submissions, and I love how it is organized to help us find the right films for our screenings.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Growth, in terms of more of a variety of events, a few rotating venues, and a stronger community between our Cinephile Members and the filmmakers. It would mean a lot to me if our patrons network and get a film made together.

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

The Lost Boys. I grew up watching that regularly, and as an adult, continue to watch it once or twice each year.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film is a marriage between the visual expression of a coherent story, accompanying resources, and performances.

How is the film scene in your city?

I think there’s a division between Charlotteans that want to work on film in any capacity they can, and a community of industry professionals that suffered a morale loss from HB2 and film incentives being dropped from our state budget.

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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.

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Interview with Festival Directors Maria Kryvoshchokova & Anna Demianenko (Marhanets International Short Film Festival)

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Marhanets International Short Film Festival is the very first film festival created in a small mining city Marhanets which aims to bring film culture to the city and inspire and motivate filmmaking in the region. The festival was founded by daughter and mother Anna Demianenko and Maria Kryvoshchokova, with the aim of helping smaller cities of Ukraine to develop film in their region.

Website: marhanetsfilmfest.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marhanetsfilmfest/

email:  marhanetsfilmfest@gmail.com

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

Maria Kryvoshchokova: Marhanets Film Festival is created to promote Ukrainian and International short films, filmmakers and actors. Our festivals gives opportunity to attract as many cinephiles as possible and lets directors to screen their films to much more viewers getting important feedback.

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

Anna Demianenko: The 2017 edition of Marhanets Film Festival which was held on 6-7 of May was very successful. Therefore we have started getting ready for 2018 edition just after the Award ceremony finished! Every person who will attend our festival will be welcomed by wonderful competition short films from all over the world that inspire, motivate, show new opportunities and solutions. Filmmakers will also be able to take part in workshops and meet young Ukrainian directors.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Maria Kryvoshchokova: We are looking for new and original films showing a unique director’s vision, camera work, acting, sound design. We opt for a strong and genuine story that will capture viewer’s attention from the very beginning and will never let go. We want to see the films that motivate and give people a chance to develop and make themselves better. This year we have decided to expand our maximum running time to 30 minutes as we have discovered that there are many good stories which surpass the time limit we had for submissions last year.

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

Anna Demianenko: I do believe it is true, as there so many films are send to the festivals each year and this great quantity makes it impossible for some selectioners to watch all the films. That is what really important for our festival, no matter how many submissions are sent, we are watching every single one of them, as sometimes the treasures are hidden and only if you are willing to search, that is when you will be rewarded. For example, 2017 Best Short Film Apparition by Denis Dobrovoda (France) was one of the last ones to be watched during the selection process.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Maria Kryvoshchokova: I would say the passion for a good film and opportunity to discover which topics excite, thrill or worry the directors from all over the world. The filmmakers are given a chance to communicate with the audience through their films and the viewers can discuss the films and speak their mind as well. The second and most important motivation is a team work. Our festival team is undeniably helpful and very friendly, people keep joining our team realizing what a wonderful mission our festival entails. We are grateful to every person who was supporting us on our way to creating an incredible event.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

Anna Demianenko: We are happy that this year we have much more filmmakers interested in our festival! As it is the second edition we are hoping to receive as many submissions as possible, so that we can show to the festival guests the most quality content. We have a thorough selection process, first the selection committee chooses the best films from submitted, then an expert committee which consists of famous Ukrainian film critics, filmmakers, actors chooses the one that will take part in competition. Members of the expert committee have very different opinions and viewpoints, therefore various films are accepted to the competition.

We are welcome every filmmaker to submit his/her short film following this link! https://filmfreeway.com/festival/MarhanetsFilmFestival
Be the one to be chosen into Marhanets Film Festival Competition!

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Maria Kryvoshchokova: We hope to enlarge the festival by making more competition programs and conducting more workshops. One of our aims is to make screenings not only of best Ukrainian short films of the year, but films of other countries as well. We are searching for cooperation with other festivals so that we can exchange experiences and screen the films in out-of-competition programs. By all means, we are expecting for more visitors from all over the world and more viewers to come and experience our remarkable event.

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

Anna Demianenko: I personally watch films every single day of different countries and year of production. I guess my favourite features are directed by Paolo Sorrentino, I found his films Youth and The Great Beauty as a great contemplation and admiration of life in its true existence. Those films aspire me to search for greatness in every moment of our life. Regarding short films, I watch them every day, I am currently a Programmer for two Dutch film festivals Shift Film Festival and Euregion Film Festival, and it gives me opportunity to watch completely different films. My favourite short film by far is Everything Will Be Ok by Patrick Vollrath. I hope to see more of such films at our festival.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

Maria Kryvoshchokova: The one that makes you talk about it and leaves nobody cold.

How is the film scene in your city?

Anna Demianenko: Marhanets Film Festival is actually a huge and incredible event for our small city. Sadly, Ukrainian film business is mostly focused in big cities, and inhabitants of small ones are usually left out. That was our initial aim: to bring cinema back to small cities, make it real and in demand. We do believe that with this festival we can bring big films to small cities no matter where it is a short or a feature. So we welcome everyone to submit their films and to visit our festival in May 2018! Be the one to develop film in small regions!

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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.

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Interview with Festival Directors Roger and Shelley Gillespie (COPA SHORTS FILM FESTIVAL)

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COPA SHORTS FILM FEST, INC. launched its first film festival in February 2017.  It is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit that focuses on creating a great learning and entertainment experience for filmmakers, screenwriters and film lovers locally, regionally, nationally, and worldwide. The festival takes places at UltraStar Multi-tainment Center at Ak-Chin Circle in Maricopa, Arizona about 35 miles from downtown Phoenix.

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

Roger and Shelley Gillespie: Copa Shorts Film Fest, now starting its second year of programming, has succeeded in highlighting talented filmmakers of short films and screenplays. In a state-of-the-art digital venue, we showed 56 short films in our first festival this February. The films were from around the world and the U.S.

In addition to showcasing films, we provided four screenwriters the opportunity to have table reads of their short screenplays. Each of the four finalists, from four different states, could see their name on the screen and their words voiced by actors.

We also are succeeding at offering workshops to provide hands-on learning experiences for new and upcoming filmmakers for free.

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

Our 2017 festival was held in February of this year. For 2018, attendees can expect more experiences to learn and enjoy film and screenplays. We’re doubling the festival workshops so attendees can have an opportunity to learn from professionals about above and below the line skills. Attendees can also relax in our fabulous location, UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, to see the films and experience the screenplay table reads.

We’re in our submission period through October 13, so we don’t know all of the films and screenplays that could be featured in February.

However, we have added a category for military veteran films and we’re seeing some excellent early entries. We’ve also added a separate category for high school filmmakers, as well as college filmmakers.

At our VIP and Wrap Award parties, we’ll be showcasing award-winning Native American musical performers, Native Spirit and Arvel Bird. The parties will be a chance for film attendees, filmmakers, and screenwriters to network.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

CSFF accepts films that are from two to twenty minutes (including credits) in the following categories: Native American, high school student, college student, military veteran and in genres of animation, comedy, documentary, drama, horror, and sci-fi.

The selected films are reviewed by Arizona State University film students and film professionals. We examine story, technical, acting, and overall impact of the film.
For screenplays, we expect screenplays to be no longer than 15 pages and also examine dialogue as one of the major criteria.v

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

Potentially, some film reviewers may not have expertise in reviewing films. This could lead to personal bias.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Our team offers this festival because we love films and we want to provide opportunities for talent to be encouraged and showcased. We offer educational workshops to help filmmakers improve their skills. And, in our growing city, we like the idea of providing a major cultural artistic event to attract people.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

We have had an extremely positive experience working exclusively with FilmFreeway. Their staff has been responsive when we had questions (We were a first-time festival this year) and everything worked smoothly.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

By 2020, we expect that the festival will be at least a day longer to provide more workshops, more submissions, more attendees, and really strong repeat business.

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

I’m a romantic. I’ve probably seen Pretty Woman tied with Dirty Dancing the most times in my life.

Roger has seen High Plains Drifter the most.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film is one that makes you think, has a memorable premise, characters, and technical aspects that all work together to create something you want to see repeatedly and talk about with others.

How is the film scene in your city?

Maricopa is a new city that has grown exponentially in the last 14 years. Our festival location, UltraStar Multi-tainment Center, was built almost five years ago. Films shown tend to favor blockbusters. We typically have to travel out of town to see art films, indie films and shorts programs.

In our community, there is an avid following for films from school students through senior citizens. Maricopa is home to several current and former filmmakers, screenwriters, Hollywood film professionals and actors. Several worthy locally-made films were shown in our festival.
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BIOS:

Roger and Shelley Gillespie are co-founders of Copa Shorts Film Fest, which began as a desire to create an event focused around film for our community of Maricopa, Arizona.

Roger Gillespie is a screenwriter, producer, film critic and host of the monthly “3-Hour Movie Critic” event at UltraStar, who has been involved in film, broadcasting and journalism since high school.

He has independently written and co-written over 10 screenplays including quarter-finalist for his full-length feature, Saving Liberty, in Francis Ford Coppola’s annual, internationally-renowned American Zoetrope Screenwriting Contest.

An alumni member of Ball State University’s Film and Broadcasting School, and Hal Croasmun’s Screenwriting U, Roger is the first to tell anyone that he can teach you how to format a screenplay in a few minutes, but “it’s the story that matters, and that takes a little more time.”

Shelley Gillespie multi-faceted background includes years as an award-winning journalist (The Communicator, Arizona Republic, Times Publications), an educator and adjunct professor (CAC, NAU), writing coach, marketing consultant and author. (Hiking for the Couch Potato: A Guide for the Exercise-Challenged.) Shelley also shares writing credit for Saving Liberty with Roger.

She has raised millions for not-for-profits, managed training programs and events, and created marketing programs for a shopping mall and corporations.

Shelley holds a BA in English from Vassar College and an MS in Educational Administration from State University of NY at Albany.

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.

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Interview with Festival Director Michael Kamel (DC Palestinian Film and Arts Festival)

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Founded in 2011, the annual DC Palestinian Film and Arts Festival (DCPFAF) is a 501c3 nonprofit, volunteer-run enterprise that showcases the work of Palestinian filmmakers and artists around the world to audiences in the Washington DC metro area.

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

Michael Kamel: The DC Palestinian Film and Arts Festival (DCPFAF) prides itself on creating a space for Palestinian subjectivity.We highlight the voices and stories of Palestinian artists from around the world. Filmmakers show audiences their debilitating morning commutes to Jerusalem through the infamous Qalandiya checkpoint, the horrors faced during the 2014 Israeli assault on Gaza, and life as a refugee in Greece. These are all stories that need to be heard.

But Palestinian subjectivity is also just that – life from the eyes of a Palestinian. One of our founders, Noura Erakat, describes it as not a Palestine festival, but a Palestinian festival. We’ve featured a short film about personal nostalgia and loss, a fictional animation on a street artist, and even a 1-minute fashion film. No Palestinian story is off the table!

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

You should expect to laugh, cry, and move! The experience this year is loosely centered on Palestinian innovation in all forms, brought to the audience through several artistic mediums. Festival goers will be treated to a carefully curated selection of films that tackle topics from Palestinian image-making to Palestinian political prisoners, a live storytelling event featuring local DC Palestinian talent in partnership with the Boston-based Palestinians Podcast, the Hollywood writer-director-producer-actor extraordinaire Cherien Dabis, a new twist on the dabke (Palestinian folk dance), and more! There is truly something for everyone.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

All of our films must be written, directed and/or produced by someone who identifies as Palestinian. We then evaluate them based on three criteria: production value, entertainment value, and creativity. Our programming team discusses each film, their position and impact in the festival lineup, and what we would want the audience to walk away with.

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

Each festival has their own broad mission and yearly vision; sometimes, a phenomenal film just may not fit into the festival’s scope for that year. However, within Palestinian cinema, good films tend to receive their recognition because filmmakers and audiences realize that’s their chance of success. We must support our own artists because that’s how they succeed both within Palestinian cinema and beyond.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

A volunteer-run festival is truly a labor of love. Everyone on our team truly believes in and supports Palestinian artists, and is passionate about creating a space for them to share their work. We want to ensure that Palestinian art is getting the reach it deserves, and that people in our region aren’t missing out.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

FilmFreeway has been a blessing for our festival, streamlining the process and ultimately making it easier and more accessible.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

2020 will be the tenth year of the DC Palestinian Film & Arts Festival. I see our festival celebrating the past decade of Palestinian art, and building a platform for the next decade. We love to push boundaries. In 2016, for example, we teamed up with Shared Studios, Mercy Corps, and Gaza Sky Geeks on an audiovisual portal that connected artists, musicians, performers, and festival attendees in DC to their peers in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. It was amazing to see people dancing, singing, and talking literally across oceans and borders. We’re all about pushing the envelope like that, and we intend on continuing that trend into our tenth annual run and beyond!

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

I can’t lie, I’m not a person who watches movies more than twice (even if I love a film). Still, at the moment, the film I’ve seen the most times in my life has to be Moonlight. I can never get enough of that movie.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A great film shakes you to your core.

How is the film scene in your city?

The DC film scene tends to focus on documentary filmmaking (usually political), given the fact that we are the nation’s capital. Several Hollywood productions have even shot in DC—Jackie, VEEP, and House of Cards amongst others. You see how those three productions alone deal with politics in some way, shape or form?

There is also an amazing independent film scene. Howard University alone is a pioneer in the area, with professors like Julie Dash (Daughters of the Dust) and Haile Gerima (Sankofa). I’ve had the privilege to work alongside some amazing filmmakers from Howard.

American University’s acclaimed film program is home to remarkable filmmakers, including the Palestinian filmmaker Najwa Najjar (Eyes of a Thief).

And, of course, I have to mention my alma mater, George Mason University. Our film program has also been pushing cutting-edge filmmakers and works to the forefront. Shout out to the amazing faculty, including Giovanna Chesler, Lisa Thrasher and the Emmy-nominated Hans Charles (Director of Photography on the Oscar-nominated 13th).

I’ve often encountered people who think that DC filmmakers are only churning out documentaries about the White House. In actuality, our artists create so much more!

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ABOUT MICHAEL KAMEL
Michael Kamel is a local filmmaker and the Curator and Co-Director of the DC Palestinian Film & Arts Festival. His film work often explores themes of identity, loss, and relationships. Subjectivity fuels his content, and he strives to provide a nuanced platform and voice for often unheard subjects. You can view more of his work at michaelkamel.com.

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.

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Interview with Festival Director Sina Dolati (TORONTO NEW WAVE)

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The Labyrinth Pictures was founded in 2016 by Sina Dolati, Emmanuel McBride and Shaq Hosein as a multi-purpose production company, producing independent film (fiction and commercial), as well as hosting events and other services under The Labyrinth umbrella with the aim of cultivating the Toronto filmmaking scene. Our summer Events Coordinator Farah Mannan has also had a large role in helping this event come to life, as well as Rangga Luksatrio who has helped us in reaching out to Toronto musicians.

The 2017 rendition of the Toronto New Wave showcase is the first public event hosted by the company, screening a multitude of short films from independent Toronto filmmakers, as well as including performances from Toronto indie bands. The event takes place at 7 PM, Saturday August 5th, at Cinecycle.

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

Sina Dolati: We’ll have to see! This is the first public event our production company (The Labyrinth) is hosting since getting founded in 2016 and we’re very excited to see how it goes. Our goal is to provide an outlet for emerging Toronto filmmakers and allow them to comfortably network with one another in an intimate space.

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

Definitely some great films from up and coming filmmakers of Toronto, as well some fantastic performances by Toronto indie bands. This rendition of the event is more of a ‘showcase’ than a festival, and it will be a jam-packed night for all attendees.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Since our screening time is rather short this time around, we’re prioritizing films from Toronto. We’d like to keep it as diverse as possible and include films from filmmakers that we see potential in.

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

I think it can go both ways. Some films do really well commercially but so not much in festivals, and vice versa. It really depends on the niche target audience. In our case, the goal is to include films from as many Toronto filmmakers as possible.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

We founded The Labyrinth umbrella as a way for us to continue making films under The Labyrinth Pictures, all while establishing a network for Toronto artists through a variety of events and services. With Toronto New Wave, we’re excited to illustrate that vision and see it all come together at a physical event for the first time. There is no fee to submit a film and tickets to attend the full event are sold at a very affordable price (~ $6).

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

t has definitely sped up the process. We kept it open to international submissions in order to get an understanding of interest in this sort of event. In the short 11 day submission
period, we’ve received just about 1000 submissions, 100 of which were from Canada. We did not expect to receive this many. At all. We’ve learned a lot (in terms of statistics), which we’ll keep in mind for future renditions of the event. For the August 2017 event, we’ll only be showing films from Toronto in order to create a strong base within our audience network.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Believe it or not, the process that was most challenging for our team in organizing this event was coming up with a name! We finally selected Toronto New Wave, since it was close to our vision of providing an outlet for emerging Toronto filmmakers (as well as musicians for this event) that continue to enrich the Toronto art scene with innovation. We strive to continue pursuing this vision, and think that the festival will be much larger by 2020, including innovative segments targeted at niche audiences (e.g. Virtual Reality films, Animation, etc.)

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

I have no idea. Maybe Jurassic Park. Loved dinosaurs as a kid.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

I don’t think most filmmakers intend to make a film that is ‘not great’, it just comes down to knowing your audience and being able to execute your vision masterfully enough in order to communicate it with them.

How is the film scene in your city?

Toronto is the third largest screen-based production centre in all of North America, just behind New York City and Los Angeles. However, I think the film industry here is still rather scattered compared to what we see in the US. There is a large gap to fill, which is where companies like ours come into play to provide direct production and screening based networking and resources. Some non-profit organizations such as the Liaison of Independent Filmmakers of Toronto (LIFT) and Raindance Toronto succeed greatly at doing just that.
 

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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.

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Interview with Festival Director Conor Armstrong Sanfey (ELEVATION INDIE FILM AWARDS)

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The Elevation Indie Film Awards has been set up by Indie Film makers for Indie Film makers. We understand the difficulties of gaining recognition for your work and want to shine a light on the vast talent of Independent filmmakers from around the world.

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

Conor Armstrong Sanfey: At elevation, we endeavour to give filmmakers feedback on all submissions, weather they are accepted or not to screen. We ensure that all films are watched, and filmmakers go away with constructive feedback. We specifically support indie filmmakers, by providing them a platform for showcasing their work.

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

To view a wide diverse programme of innovative independent films.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

To view a wide diverse programme of innovative independent films.

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

No we feel a lot of the major festivals do not give enough attention to independent films. With some not even watching entries at times.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Our motivation comes from our experience as indie filmmakers ourselves. We want to provide a support system for independent filmmakers, and provide them with constructive feedback and a platform to showcase their fantastic work.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

We have been getting films from all around the world. The standard has been fantastic, and we can’t wait to see for.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

We hope to continue expanding the festival, and hopefully hold more live screenings.

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

. Shawshank Redemption.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A film that transports you into another world, and most importantly entertains.

How is the film scene in your city?

The film scene in Dublin it thriving, especially in the independent film scene.

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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