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Posted June 3, 2014 by Dane Jackson in Features
 
 

A Newbie’s Guide to Film Festivals: 5 Tips to Enjoy the Cinetopia International Film Festival

There’s just something electric about attending your first film festival, especially if you’re a movie buff like me. At last year’s Cinetopia International Film Festival, I finally got to cross “go to a film festival” off my bucket list. Since it was my first time, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Up to that point, my only experience with film festivals was reading about them and waiting to see the movies when they came to town or were released on DVD. Based on my experience last year, I’ve put together a list of tips for anyone who will be participating in their first film festival with this year’s Cinetopia International Film Festival, taking place in and around Ann Arbor and Detroit, MI from June 4-8, 2014 (though most of these suggestions can be applied to any film festival). Follow my guide and to festing to make sure you get the most out of the experience.

 

1. Try Something New

CinetopiaOne of the best things about going to film festivals is that it’s an opportunity to see and discover movies early in their release cycle or ones that won’t necessarily make it to the multiplexes. These fests are hotbeds for the best in independent and foreign cinema. Sure, at first glance, the fest schedule might be a bit intimidating, but if you just go for it, you’ll be pleasantly surprised. For instance, at the 2013 Cinetopia Festival, I was able to see a future Oscar winner before it received a wide release! Don’t be afraid to go outside your comfort zone.

2. Attend Panel Discussions and Special Events

John SaylesFilm festivals are known for offering special events, including panels and post film Q&As with the folks involved with the movies you just watched. If you happen upon a screening that offers this opportunity, don’t pass it up! Take part in as many panel discussions and events as possible. The principals from the film are there because they believe in the movie they worked on and want to share that passion. Don’t be shy; ask questions. It’s rare that you get such an intimate look into the movie world, so it’s best to take advantage when you can.

3. Be Social

Cinetopia Film FestivalWhether it’s joining in on the conversation on social media by using festival-specific hash tags, or simply talking to folks in the lobby between screenings, don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Audience members at film festivals are traditionally more invested than casual viewers, so the opportunity for good conversation is there. Plus, you never know who you may end up talking to.

4. Don’t Forget to Vote

VoteDid you see a movie you can’t stop talking about? Has it changed the way you think about movies? If the film festival you’re at offers an audience award, make sure your voice is heard. Winning festival awards is one way for independent cinema to gain traction with more general audiences.

5. Have Fun and Don’t Get Overwhelmed

AmelieDon’t stress about not being able to see every movie at the Cinetopia (or whatever festival you’re at) festival. With multiple days and venues, there’s just no possible way to see everything. Instead of getting overwhelmed with all of the decisions and scheduling, get a pass that is good for the duration of the event and check things out at your leisure. You’ll enjoy your time much more that way.

Dane Jackson

Dane Jackson

Dane Jackson has been writing about movies since high school when he had a monthly column in the school paper about cult movies. His cinematic tastes have matured (slightly) since then.