14th Annual Barrie Film Festival October 14 - 23, 2011
Director's Message
Welcome to our 14th Annual Barrie Film Festival or BFF14. The slogan "your best friend for film" underscores our vision as we strive to be a community leader in film, seeking out the best of the best in independent and foreign cinema as well as hosting unique events and screening opportunities. "BFF" is also a mantra for us in the new age of communication, as we continue to build our social media presence and to carry on an open dialogue with fellow film lovers. Over the ten days of the festival, you can look forward to travelling a culturally diverse film landscape at our two main screening venues: uptown at the Bayfield 7 Cinemas and downtown at the Imperial Theatre. Opening weekend we present the annual Short Film Competition, a program that is near and dear to us for the level of excitement it generates from an audience filled with filmmakers and their families and friends. This year's finalists, chosen once again by a jury panel, will be presented on Saturday night, followed directly by the awards ceremony which will take place in the cinema. Afterwards, carry on to the always high-spirited Filmmakers' Party, but on the way, be sure to hit the red carpet for a photo op! Lastly, to end this jam-packed evening at the Imperial, take in a late night screening of "Attack the Block", a UK comedy sci-fi from the same producers of "Shaun of the Dead" and "Hot Fuzz"... we challenge you to go the distance tonight!On Thursday, October 20th, we are very proud to be hosting the first official arts event at The Mady Centre for the Performing Arts as we screen the original "The Blues Brothers" movie, complete with a reception featuring musical guests Blues Parlour. To punctuate the end of an incredible week of films, join us the next night for our gala Friday evening featuring the French comedy "Romantics Anonymous", followed of course by the fabulous After Party – being held this year at Georgian BMW – where all can gather to enjoy the sultry music of Beatnik Rose and indulge in temptingly delicious food prepared by local chefs.
On Saturday, we welcome writer/director Jonathan Sobol who will be attending the screening of his film "A Beginner's Guide to Endings", staying afterwards for a Q & A at the theatre, then heading over to a reception – including some further opportunity for conversation, no doubt – at Jennifer Klementti Photography. To round out this final festival weekend, our much-anticipated Director's Brunch will be held at the Mady on Sunday. This year we will highlight documentary director Lawrence Jackman as he shares his latest film "How does it feel", a moving story of self-discovery and transformation through the power of song; Kazumi Tsuruoka, the central character featured in the documentary, will also be in attendance.
And as if that weren't enough, we're offering an extra treat later in this closing day in the shape of Anthony Baxter, director of the jaw-dropping U.K. doc "You've Been Trumped", who will be on hand after the film for a Q & A which is sure to be very lively! As a non-profit organization, the Barrie Film Festival relies on the efforts of many people to bring our festival to life every year. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who helps to make this event possible: to our audiences for their shared passion and enthusiasm for film; to our sponsors who provide their generous support and to our many dedicated volunteers who have contributed their valuable time and talents. It is a privilege to share this year's selections of international favourites with all our BFF's – our Best Friends of Film!
Claudine Benoit, Director
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