The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival (FLIFF), Nov. 3 through 16, will showcase nearly 200 films from 40 countries, featuring eight world premieres and six U.S. premieres. The festival includes features, documentaries, and short film programs, along with Filmed in Broward, a showcase of 21 films by South Florida filmmakers, all filmed in Broward County.
In addition to the impressive lineup of films, directors, producers, actors, and special guests will walk the red carpet, conduct Q&A discussions, and mingle with attendees. An exciting lineup of parties and special events take place throughout the festival. Some of the most popular events of the week are the Opening Night Film, Red Carpet & Party on Nov. 3, Gatsby Party at the luxurious Villa de Palma on Nov. 4, Centerpiece Film & Party on Nov. 9, and Intracoastal Elegance, a memorable evening under the stars at a private estate on Nov. 11.
The opening night of FLIFF at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino will screen the dramatic comedy “The Good Half”, directed by Robert Schwartzman (“Princess Diaries”, “Rooney”), who will be joined on the red carpet by cast members Brittany Snow (“Hairspray”, “Pitch Perfect”), David Arquette (“Scream”, “Never Been Kissed”), Matt Walsh (“VEEP”, “The Hangover”) and out actor Alexandra Shipp (“Barbie”, “X-Men”). Following the film, a lavish party will be held with live music, food, and an open bar.
The Senior makes its world premiere on Nov. 9 at Savor Cinema, followed by a lively street party. Directed by Rod Lurie and starring Emmy and Golden Globe-winning actor Michael Chiklis. “The Senior” is based on the true story of Mike Flynt, a flawed everyman who overcomes his age, his mental demons, and the preconceptions of his teammates 40 years his junior, proving that it’s never too late to tackle your dreams. Rod Lurie, Michael Chiklis, producer Mark Ciardi, and Mike & Eileen Flynt, subjects of the film, will be in attendance.
“This Time” recounts the tale of a sheltered teen who inherits her estranged father’s journal, uncovering cryptic clues to his secret life. To fulfill her father’s dying wish, she races across the country to attempt a long-shot rendezvous with her father’s longtime friend Liza Minelli. Screened at Savor Cinema on Nov. 4 a reception follows the screening.
“Without Precedent: The Supreme Life Of Rosalie Abella”, on Nov. 6 at Savor Cinema, welcomes Justice Rosalie Abella, a former member of the Supreme Court of Canada, for the screening of this documentary about her life and career. Written and directed by Barry Avrick, the film is a compelling portrait of a woman born to Holocaust survivors in Germany in 1946. Often referred to as “Canada’s RBG” (Ruth Bader Ginsburg), she is a tireless champion for the neglected and underserved, Justice Abella will join guests at a reception before the screening of the film at 7:30 pm.
FLIFF continues its tradition of honoring noteworthy filmmakers and actors during the festival. This year’s honorees including, Robert Schwartzman, director of “The Good Half”, David Arquette (“Scream”), Matt Walsh (“The Hangover”, “VEEP”), and Brittany Snow (“Hairspray”, “Pitch Perfect”), will each receive the Career Achievement Award and Alexandra Shipp (“X-Men”, “Barbie”) will be honored with FLIFF's Star on the Horizon Award. All four have major roles in “The Good Half”, the Opening Night film. Charles Martin Smith (“American Graffiti”, “The Untouchables”), actor/writer/director, will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award at the screening of “This Time”, in which he stars. Michael Chiklis (“The Senior”, “The Shield”, “Fantastic 4”), Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning actor, will be presented with the Career Achievement Award.
Screenings throughout the festival take place at Savor Cinema, Cinema Paradiso, NSU Art Museum, Lauderhill Performing Arts Center, Gateway Theatre, AutoNation IMAX, and Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. A full schedule, including information on tickets and membership at fliff.com.
