The Cleveland International Film Festival (CIFF) is the artistic gem of Cleveland. To not attend this film festival is a huge disservice! The world-class artistry and sense of community CIFF creates is truly irreplaceable. Once you're in, the energy is infectious! This is my Christmas.
You don't need to be a film expert to attend. Grab any of the glossy catalogues lying around Tower City (or anywhere in CLE), browse online and JUST GO! I'm under 30 and my favorite films are animated and family shorts. Whether you're into avant-garde foreign films, stirring documentaries or family friendly live-action films, there's something for everyone.
There are literally hundreds of dedicated, passionate and inviting volunteers who help keep this festival moving. If you love to volunteer, this is where to do it. If you work a certain number of shifts, you'll even get cool perks in exchange, like film vouchers!
Other pro tips to get the most of the festival:
1. Research and purchase tickets to your movies in advance! Make a game plan and write them down. Arrive early and give yourself enough time to get in line and find the correct theatre.
2. Don't be one of the people who just plainly stops in the middle of the hallway when people are herding between films. You might get pummeled. Seriously.
3. Purchasing a pass is worth it if there's a bevy of films that pique your interest!
4. Check The Plain Dealer daily to see "Who Is In Town" -- you never know what actors or filmmaker you may bump into!
5. Talk to everyone. CIFF people are the nicest people on earth.
Thanks, CIFF staff, for curating such an awesome festival! Can't wait for 2017.