Independent film festival in Rhode Island wagers on emergent filmmakers' perspectives

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) recently concluded its 29th edition, attracting over 1,500 attendees and showcasing a diverse range of films, panels, and parties from August 5-10. The event, which kicked off at the Providence Performing Arts Center, was a celebration of both emerging and established talent in the film industry.

One of the festival's highlights was the screening of high-profile films such as Georges Méliès' 1902 classic A Trip To the Moon, the world premiere of Verde Productions' Roaring Games, and the Letitia Wright-directed short Highway to the Moon. The event also featured the works of new voices that haven't been seen or celebrated elsewhere, a testament to RIIFF's commitment to promoting diversity in the industry.

RIIFF is aiming to use its distinctive culture and industry to court more of Hollywood and expand its presence on both coasts. A Sept. 10 panel and screening of RIIFF's Oscar-qualifying shorts at The Academy Museum marked the first step in this ambitious plan. Leading film and TV execs, including Michael Bay's production banner Platinum Dunes, Joe and Anthony Russo's TV and film outfit, AGBO, film studio and sales company LD Entertainment, and Catalina Film Festival leadership, were among those in attendance.

Rhode Island Gov. Dan McKee and Providence Mayor Brett Smiley were also present, with Smiley emphasizing Providence's investment in the arts. McKee championed Rhode Island as a choice spot for the film and TV industry due to its scenic views, historic architecture, and talented workforce.

The festival's advisory board member, Chris Sparling, believes the festival has the potential to draw on a lot of great people within the industry. Donna Morong, a casting director and RIIFF panelist, appreciates the festival's intimate conversations and rich movie culture.

In addition to the screenings, the festival also focused on the business aspects of Hollywood through its panel programming. Discussions on acting, filmmaking, screenwriting, traditional and web3 financing, and navigating one's career for the long term provided valuable insights for both aspiring and established filmmakers.

The festival has a history of supporting its alumni, with many benefiting from the early exposure. Tiffany Kimmel, another alumnus of the festival, received a Vimeo Staff Pick, an IP conference at Film London, and an investor in her current production, Heads, due to the festival's early support. Manya Glassman, a director who won awards at this year's festival, has received support from the festival since her teenage years.

One of the most significant screenings for filmmakers was My Kind of People's team, who consider screening at the Rhode Island International Film Festival as the most important in terms of film festivals. Sam Hayes, the director of Pools, appreciated the festival's programming of locally filmed titles and its timing ahead of his film's release.

The festival also saw the production of J.J. Abrams' film "Ghostwriter" in Rhode Island, with scenes shot in Cranston and Providence. While the specific production company or producer responsible for the Rhode Island segment is not explicitly mentioned, the film's presence adds to the festival's reputation as a hub for film production.

Tashima, a panelist at the festival, is the recipient of the 2024 George T. Marshall production grant and attributes her success to the festival's early support of her work. The Rhode Island International Film Festival continues to be a platform for both emerging and established talent, fostering a rich and vibrant film culture in Rhode Island.