May 2019

A Free Festival!

May 9-11, 2019, marks the 61st Rochester International Film Festival. For three days, 1000s of film lovers will come together to partake of dozens of films at one of the longest running short- film festivals in the world right here in Rochester. Best of all, the festival and its screenings are FREE!

Anything Goes

The festival features films in diverse genres, all of which were produced by independent filmmakers from around the world who submitted their work for a chance at selection into the festival. There are no restrictions with regard to genre or filmmaker experience or age, but each film is 30 minutes or less. The open criteria create a range of films that truly offers something for everyone. Whatever you love most about short films, you’re sure to find it here.

Fascinating Films

Just head to the Dryden Theatre to be pleasantly surprised, or check out the 2019 program before you head out. Summaries are listed by viewing time along with their country of origin. The shortest film is a 2-minute Swedish narrative about a woman who is contemplating what it would be like to be the only person in New York City. Alone in New York is screening on Saturday. One of the longest films this year is a 29-minute Australian drama about a woman who faces off against the mafia who is trying to steal her husband’s produce business. Widow also screens on Saturday. A four-minute short film about a grizzly fisherman and an “eerily familiar fish” is just one of several offerings for Animation enthusiasts. L’Homme et le Poisson screens on Friday.

Crucial Details

The Rochester International Film Festival takes place Thursday, May 9th, through Saturday the 11th in the famed Dryden Theatre at The George Eastman Museum. The festival is free and open to the public. However, some films may not be appropriate for all audiences. Check the program for “MA,” which marks films that are recommended for audiences 18 years of age or older.