Film Festivals

If you’ve heard of film festivals, it’s probably because you’ve read the gossip magazines. Admit it, everyone does. But when you’re looking at the glitz and the glamour, you might begin to wonder if you could ever make it to a film festival too. After all, you like movies and you like celebrities, so a film festival would be the perfect fit for you. Well, you might not make it to Sundance, but you can take a trip to a film festival in your area – and you might just see a star along the way.

Local Filmmakers, Local Festivals

One of the best ways to get the film festival experience is to go to a local film fest. Many larger and even medium sized cities are offering film festivals annually. These festivals might include traditional length films, short films, or special categories, like documentaries. Since these festivals tend to be smaller, they are more accessible for the everyday person, allowing you the chance to even rub elbows with famous actors and actresses who decide to show up. You can also avoid the larger crowds of more popular film festivals, which can provide you with a better atmosphere and less of a parking nightmare.

How to See the Films You Want to See

When you’re at a film festival, the biggest trick is that there are a number of films all playing at once. And if you like a number of films, chances are good that you’re going to miss some of them. In order to make the most of each day at the festival, you need to make out a schedule ahead of time. Make a list of the movies you want to see, when you want to see them and a plan on how to see them. Get up early and get to the theater early so that you can also get a good seat. Bring snacks in your purse (be sneaky) and you will be able to watch the movies you want to watch without having to be interrupted. Of course, if you do miss some films, that’s okay too. Even the celebrities can’t see everything they want to see.

Making the Most of a Festival

As you’re at a film festival, it’s a good idea to check out all of the booths that might be up to promote each film. Since these films may not have backing yet, the filmmakers are eager to find someone who might be able to give money to their cause. But even if you don’t have money to spare, it never hurts to look at each of the booths to see what they have to offer – i.e. swag. You can also look around to talk with the filmmakers, getting the inside view of the movie world.

Though you might not be ready for your own close-up yet, it never hurts to try to make it to a film festival. With more local events being produced, you might just make it to the red carpet.