The Austin Film Festival Review

Overall 5.00 of 5 (by 1 user)

jmdobies
Austin, TX

Austin Film Fest Celebrates the Screenwriter's Art

sleep deprived, Beer Snob, a cult film connoisseur, likes quality entertainment, character-lover, interested in cultural experiences, Blogger, parent of two

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Pros

175 Movies!, Esteemed Panelists!, Downtown Austin!, Screenings at Alamo Drafthouse!

DEC

2007

The Austin Film Festival —

The Austin Film Festival was started in 1994 to celebrate the art of screenwriting by showcasing new and classic independent films. Which makes sense, as some of the greatest screenwriters ever - Terry Southern and Larry McMurtry come to mind - hail from Texas.

Among the 2007 honorees and panelists were Oliver Stone and John Milius, who introduced screenings of some of their most personal work. Milius chose to screen his 1985 surfing epic Big Wednesday, while Stone presented Born on the 4th of July.

In addition to the designated honorees, there are lots of familiar faces roaming around the various screenings and parties, from QT to Willie to Sandra Bullock.

Among the new films featured in the festival were Lars and the Real Girl and Sidney Lumet's Before the Devil Knows You're Dead. My favorite screening was the documentary Dirt Road to Psychedelia, a chronicle of Austin's '60s music scene.

In addition to the eight-day festival, the AFF also presents screenings throughout the year.

The AFF offers a great week of films and panels for the cinemaphile, plus all the charms and oddities that Austin has to offer. Highly recommended.

From the AFF mission statement:

"The Austin Film Festival is dedicated to championing the work of aspiring and established filmmakers, defined as screenwriters, directors, editors, producers, actors and all artists who use the language of film to tell a story. The AFF furthers the art, craft and business of filmmaking by providing unique cultural events and services, enhancing public awareness and participation and encouraging dynamic and long-lasting community partnerships."

The 15th Annual Austin Film Festival will be held October 16-23, 2008.

Last edited on Dec 18, 2007