Rachel Lutack August 30th, 2016 - 4:35 PM
A film celebration that combines art, music, activity, nature, and movies, the Columbia Gorge International Film Festival (CGIFF) is moving from the Pacific Northwest outside of Portland, OR to the Hollywood removed Big Bear Mountains. Registration for the festival is completely FREE and takes place during the weekend of September 22 through September 25.
The festival’s opening films will be Sustainable, directed by Matt Wechsler and Annie Speicher, as well as Sirena, directed by Robin Bisio. These films will be preceded by a welcome dinner for filmmakers and followed by live music and drinks. The rest of the weekend will follow suit in its welcoming and diverse lineup (see the full list of official selections here), pairing experimental and artistic filmmaking with outdoor adventures, camping, live music, comedians, guest speakers, workshops, readings, painting, and many more activities.
According to CGIFF founder, director, and Los Angeles native Breven Angaelica Warren,
CGIFF is a unique mentorship festival, combining art and nature while creating a community that educates, encourages and empowers filmmakers to step out and make bold, new and visionary works.
The festival will present 120 films and screenplays in varying lengths to include full features, shorts, documentaries, and many “experimental” projects. If a festival that celebrates film in the context of art and environment and outside the context of Hollywood, this unique and intimate experience is likely for you.
