Filmfest DC is an annual event that showcases a wide range of extraordinary new films from around the world. The Filmfest DC program includes a global range of cultures, music, and politics, representing cinema from over 30 countries. There are opening and closing night events, discussions with directors, movie premieres and free programs for children and senior citizens.
Each year, the festival focuses on cinema from a particular region in addition to presenting strands of films with a similar theme. This year's theme is “The Lighter Side”, screening a slate of international comedies. The festival will also feature “Caribbean Journeys”, a groundbreaking series providing insights into this energetic culture and its people. American premieres include “RasTa: A Soul’s Journey” featuring Bob Marley’s granddaughter, Donisha Prendergast, and Calypso Rose: The Lioness of the Jungle” about the legendary singer from Trinidad & Tobago. Returning this year, the festival’s unique Justice Matters section focusing on issues of social justice will include “5 Broken Cameras” (Palestine/Israel), “Blood in the Mobile” (Denmark) and “Pink Ribbons, Inc.” (Canada).
Festival Locations
- Avalon Theatre - 5612 Connecticut Avenue, NW
- Goethe-Institut Washington - 812 Seventh Street, NW
- Landmark's E Street Cinema - 555 11th Street, NW
- Regal Cinemas Gallery Place - 701 7th Street, NW
- Embassy of France - 4101 Reservoir Rd., NW
- Naval Heritage Center - 701 Pennsylvania Ave. NW
FilmFest DC Tickets
General Admission is $11.00/per person to most films. Some events are free of charge and are on a first come, first serve basis. Tickets are available online.Special Events
- Opening Night – Regal Cinemas Gallery Place, Tickets: $25
Hosted by multi-Emmy® award-winning WJLA entertainment reporter, Arch Campbell, the celebration on April 12 at 7pm will feature the Washington, DC premiere of the Canadian comedy and box office hit Starbuck. A party at Bar Louie in Chinatown will follow.
- Closing Night – Embassy of France, Tickets: $20
On April 22, Filmfest DC will continue its comedic theme with the French blockbuster The Intouchables, screening at 3pm and 7pm. A reception will take place between the screenings.
- Filmfest DC for KIDS – Goethe-Institut Washington, Tickets: $5 Eleanor's Secret, a family-friendly film, screens Saturday, April 14 at 2:30pm and Saturday, April 21 at 2:30pm.
