Sedona Film Festival

      Independent Film has gained a stronghold out west. With quirky film festivals popping up all over the country, its important to acknowledge those that have been promoting and heralding independent filmmakers for years. February 22nd will mark the beginning of the 20th annual Sedona Film Festival. SFF has been committed to not only celebrating independent film and filmmakers, but placing an emphasis on educating and providing artistic and cultural  enrichment. This year, SFF will be screening over 145 films over the douse of nine days, drawing from independent films, documentaries, foreign films, and animations, and even providing an opportunity for student films to be screened in front of large audiences.

     This tradition of celebrating independent films of all kinds has contributed to the longevity of the festival. The quality of films selected for the festival also lends to the continually growing in reputation of SFF. The diversity of the films has no bounds. Just to name a few, in the documentary category, 1 is the work of American Paul Crowder and focuses on the golden era of Formula 1 racing. Examining the the glitz and glamour of F1 in the 1970s when motor racing had reached an pinnacle in worldwide popularity, it had also amassed a staggering body count. The film examines the incredible machines and men who braved this deadly era or motorsport. From the dangers of F1, another documentary feature Antarctica: A Year on Ice is a beautiful glimpse into the coldest place on Earth. Anthony Powell takes us into the frozen continent, showing what a year in Antarctica is like for those everyday people that man the various stations on the continent. Antarctica is a visually stunning work that will leave audiences amazed at the steadfast nature of the brave men and women who brave the frigid temperatures, and is a glimpse into an place on Earth that is as alien as any place in the universe.

     The narrative category is extensive, and it will feature an independent film from UNCW’s own Terry Linehan. Linehan’s Don’t Know Yet is an emotional journey into an aimless and heartbroken man who finds solace in giving hitchhikers lifts to wherever they want to go. Filmed in Wilmington and Asheville, North Carolina, Don’t Know Yet is a film that all of Wilmington can rally around, and be proud to see make an appearance in Sedona.

     While film festivals continue to grow and make their own reputations in different parts of the country, it is important to realize that this celebration and renaissance of independent is nothing new. Festivals like SFF have been at it for years, and hopefully many more years to come.

Written by Jacob Smith Chamelin

Web Content Writer

Visions Film Festival and Conference

Wilmington, NC 
Visit our website: www.visionsfilm.org