By Sarah J. Nachin
WOODSTOCK — The slogan of the Woodstock Film Festival is “Fiercely Independent.” It’s an apt description of this relatively small, but popular event showcasing independent films from around the United States and the world. More and more filmmakers, such as Malcolm Washington (The Piano Lesson) and Richard Linklater (Dazed and Confused) are eschewing the big Hollywood studios and relying on multiple independent producers to make their films happen.
Meira Blaustein, who co-founded the festival in 2000, has seen it grow and evolve over the years. The event has taken place every year since, even during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Blaustein remarks that despite its growth, “it has maintained its heart and its independence. We’ve grown organically, but we haven’t outgrown ourselves.”
Many film industry people from New York City come up to the tiny hamlet of Woodstock each year and the locals also embrace the festival. You won’t see yachts and $1500 designer outfits here. The atmosphere is casual. You’re more likely to see a well-known personality, such as Steve Buscimi, in jeans and a t-shirt, as opposed to a three-piece suit. And because they participate in panel discussions, as well as Q & As, you might have a chance to shake their hand.
There was zero budget their first year. Everyone was a volunteer and the films were screened only in Woodstock. Thanks to sponsors (large and small) they have added some paid staff and been able to expand their venues. This year in addition to Woodstock, there will be three other locations for screenings and other events−Kingston, Saugerties, and Rosendale−all within a twenty to thirty minute drive from each other. However, give yourself plenty of time to travel from location to location to allow for traffic and finding parking. Woodstock, itself, is walkable and it’s best to park and go on foot. That way you have a chance to stop in at some of the shops and maybe grab a bite to eat between shows.
In addition to shortage of funds, the festival has not been without challenges over the past twenty-five years. In 2020, there was the pandemic. Much of it was virtual with online screenings. However, the festival organizers used three local drive-in theatres for some of the screenings. It was one of the few film festivals that were not just virtual, so filmmakers were thrilled.
“Being able to support the filmmakers, to see how happy they are when they get here or have their film accepted, helping them nurture their careers, support their creativity and allow their voices to be heard are some of the most rewarding aspects. Connecting with other creative people in the local community is another reason I do what I do,” remarks Blaustein.
Besides an expanded eclectic program including almost 160 films, nine panels, Q & As with well-known people in the film industry, and live music events, a new award has been added to the program. It will be the Laurent Rejto “Made in the Hudson Valley Award.” Rejto, who passed away recently, was head of the Hudson Valley Film Commission.
“It’s going to be amazing!” Blaustein concludes.
Whether you are a cinephile or a filmmaker, yourself, I’m sure you’ll agree with her.
The Woodstock Film Festival will continue through the weekend. Many of the films will sell out quickly so it’s best to order your tickets as early as possible.
For tickets and information on being a volunteer, go to https://woodstockfilmfestival.org/
To learn more about sponsorship opportunities email: sponsor@Woodstockfilmfestival.org
Uma Thurman participating in a panel discussion
(L-R) Steve Buscemi and Matthew Modine participating in a panel discussion
Meira Blaustein (Far right) with young filmmakers
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