Downtown Tyler Film Festival Kicks Off Sept. 25

Did you know that Tyler has its very own film festival? What started as a small Short Film Festival two years ago has blossomed into an event that draws films from around the world.

The first Downtown Tyler Film Festival featured only short comedic films from Texas made in 2011. Last year the show expanded to include international films, and this year promises to exceed expectations once again.

The daily pass for Wednesday through Friday is only $5; the Saturday night “Best of the Fest,” which includes food and drinks at the pre- and post-party is $15; or you can buy the Producer’s all-access pass for only $25.

The Festival nights are as follows:

• Wednesday, Sept. 25 at 7 p.m.: Films Made in the USA
• Thursday, Sept. 26 at 7 p.m.: Home-Grown Texas Films
• Friday, Sept. 27 at 7 p.m.: Foreign Film Night
• Donation Matinee – Saturday, Sept. 28 at 3 p.m.: Student and Art Films
• Saturday, Sept. 28 at 7 p.m.: The Best of the Fest

The DTFF has expanded this year to include a matinee that will feature art and student films for donations only,in addition to educational workshops. The workshops which will be offered at Gallery Main Street, 110 W. Erwin on Saturday, Sept. 28, explore different aspects of filmaking.

Films have been submitted from all over the world including; Tyler, Kentucky, New York, Alabama, L.A., England, Cuba, Italy, Australia, Brazil, Spain, France, Belgium and more. However, it may surprise you to discover that some of the top contenders were actually made right here in Tyler.

“One of the main reasons we have a short film festival is to promote local talent,” said Chairman Chris Abraham. “First-time filmmakers can’t afford to shoot an hour-long movie, but they can make a 10-minute film. We’ve even shown films that were shot on mobile phones.”

For more information and to purchase tickets, go to www.TylerFilmFest.com or like us on Facebook. All evening showings are recommended for ages 18 and older.