Saratoga Film Showcase debuts January 17-18
SARATOGA SPRINGS, N.Y. (NEWS10)-- The inaugural Saratoga Film Showcase will celebrate movies and filmmakers across venues on January 17 and 18. The two-day event features movie screenings, networking opportunities and panel discussions, with a headlining screening of "Paint."
The showcase, held at Putnam Place at 63A Putnam Street, will offer film lovers a detailed look into locally made and produced movies and films. It will also offer them a chance to interact and connect with artists and filmmakers.
"The Saratoga Film Festival is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the art of filmmaking while showcasing Saratoga County as a vibrant destination for creativity and culture," MacKenzie Zarzycki, Saratoga County film commissioner said. "This event will bring together talented storytellers and local artists, to foster connections and inspiration through the power of film."
The weekend headliner will be a screening of "Paint," directed by Brit McAdams and starring Owen Wilson. The movie, filmed around Saratoga Springs, features landmarks from the city including Lincoln Bathhouse, Olde Bryan Inn and Desperate Annie’s.
The screening will take place at Scene One Wilton Mall Cinema. McAdams will be the guest of honor and join the audience for a Q&A session after the screening.
"A mini-festival of this kind has been in the back of my mind for a while, and after Brit (McAdams) told me he’d be interested in coming back to town with Paint, I saw an opportunity to have it shine a spotlight on our local independent scene as well," said Spencer Sherry, showcase director. "I believe that the art being made in the Capital Region is tremendous, and our community has such overwhelming potential to produce greatness. I want SFS to connect this medium to its local audience, and give our artists a better chance of finding success here - particularly the next generation."
All proceeds from the event will go towards a scholarship fund for teenagers to attend ArtsFest at Camp Stomping Ground. The suggested donation for a festival pass, which includes access to every panel, screening and party for the weekend is $50.
Event Schedule
Friday, January 17:
- 7:00 p.m.: Shorts After Dark – A showcase of bold and inventive short films.
- 9:00 p.m.: Welcome Party – Network with the filmmakers, sponsors, and film enthusiasts.
Saturday, January 18:
- 9:30 a.m.: Local Locations Shorts – Films that feature prominent Capital Region settings.
- 11:30 a.m.: Panel – Shooting Upstate.
- 2:00 p.m.: Dance Shorts – A mesmerizing collection of dance-themed short films.
- 4:00 p.m.: Panel – Choreography in Film.
- 7:00 p.m.: Feature Presentation – "Paint" with Brit McAdams and post-film Q&A.
- 9:30 p.m.: Closing Night Party – Celebrate the success of the first-ever SFS with live performers.