In case you weren’t aware, the Rhode Island International Film Festival – held every year in downtown Providence – kicks off its 13th annual seven-day star-studded event tomorrow, August 4. And in case you aren’t sure how big the Fest really is, consider these stats:
235 films from 57 countries
38 world premieres and 21 North American premieres
special guest appearances by Ernest Borgnine (accepting a RIIFF lifetime achievement award) and William Shatner (accepting a Nathaniel Greene Humanitarian Award), and NBA sports legend Wat Misaka, among others
The RIIF bills itself as the largest public film festival in New England and an Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences qualifying event. Considering that Providence is a mere hour and some change from Lowell, this is a great opportunity for film fans.
If you’re looking for a good day to go, opt for this Saturday, August 8 – the beautiful downtown Providence Waterfire celebration will be going on simultaneously with the film fest. Waterfire is truly an amazing experience that starts at sundown and continues well into the evening – the perfect diversion from celluloid overload…if you actually need one.
lowellfilmcollaborativema.org 