here - Rehoboth Beach Film Society

aS Sue SeeS IT:
The Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival may be considered a mid-size, regional Festival, but with
an audience coming from more than 25 states, including New Mexico, California, and other long distances,
I’m impressed with the scope of its reach.
Every January starts the influx of emails requesting the dates of the next Festival because of the need
to submit vacation schedules at work. It is heartwarming to know this event generates such enthusiasm
from so many people. One member has given up opportunities to speak at national conferences because of
schedule conflicts with the Festival. Now that is commitment!
In addition to our audience, we have many wonderful and dedicated volunteers. Some don’t see a single
film but love to be a part of such a festive event. We can always use more volunteers, so if you have time
before, during, or after the Festival, and want to help out, please let us know.
This event would not be possible without the generous support of sponsors, members, ad purchasers, and
everyone who purchases tickets. Your collective supportive is greatly appreciated.
aS Joe SeeS IT:
It’s only a few paragraphs, but this is always the hardest part of the program guide to complete. I am so
excited about all the films that I almost feel bad about giving some “highlights,” but alas, I must.
The best place to start would be the films that share a consistent theme. After years and years of hearing
the audiences say, and I do quote, “Why are there not more comedies?” My answer is always the same:
“because there are not many independent comedies.” This year I searched high and low, far and wide,
and found many gems of the comedy genre. These films will keep you laughing till the cows come home
(if I only knew what that meant!). The films range from laugh-out-loud, to dark comedy, and everything in
between. For those of you who like things on the darker side of your humor, do not miss The King Is Dead
and Sense of Humor. If you prefer your comedy sweet try Escort in Love and The Day I Saw Your Heart. Is
quirky comedy more your style? Then Let My People Go and Baikonur are must-sees.
Country Spotlight: Italy highlights the amazing films coming out of the country. Six new films, including
Rehoboth Beach
major festival award winners Caesar Must Die and Diaz, Don’t Clean Up This Blood, along with three
Independent Film Festival
renowned classics that beg to be seen on the big screen (8 ½, Once Upon A Time In The West and The
Bicycle Thief) make this a great overview of the wonderful cinema industry in Italy. To learn even more, do not miss the seminar
“Neorealism, Spaghetti Westerns and Beyond,” Saturday, November 10 from 9:00AM – 10:30AM.
Finally, we have a group of truly independent films that showcase some of the best new talent and new films currently on the festival
circuit. These are prime examples that great films can be made outside of the big budgeted Hollywood machine. Sun Don’t Shine and
The Dynamiter take full advantage of their southern setting, using the setting as another character to their stories. Shuffle is a unique
blend or romance, comedy and sci-fi in a mash-up of genres that creates a wholly unique film. Valley of Saints is a socio-political film
that does not follow the expectations of the genre, but forges its own path, thus creating a new voice in the cinema of India.
So there you have it; just a few of the highlights of a festival filled with highlights. We once again have a number of films that have
played commercially in major markets, a few that will be seen commercially after the festival and yet others that will not been seen
anywhere except festivals, or maybe Netflix, way down the road.
Happy travels!
Joe Bilancio, Festival Program Director, Rehoboth Beach Independent Film Festival
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Sue Early
Executive Director
Rehoboth Beach Film Society
Now in its 15th year, the Festival and the Film Society have entered the challenging teenage period. Significant growth has taught us
well but we also recognize there is further development ahead. As we continue to strive for improvement, one goal is to transition
to online ticket purchasing. In order to make that affordable, the parameters associated with ticket sales need to be simplified.
The Membership Committee has been reviewing options and in 2013 we will be sharing the challenges and asking for your input in
determining the best solutions.
We enjoy seeing you during the Festival put please don’t be once-a-year friends. The Film Society offers a fantastic variety of special
screenings, film series, and programs throughout the year. Please visit our redesigned website, www.rehobothfilm.com, frequently to
learn about upcoming events.
Thanks again for your support and enjoy this wonderful event which you helped develop.
Sue Early, Executive Director, Rehoboth Beach Film Society
p.s. Next year’s Festival is November 6-10, 2013.
Joe Bilancio
Festival Program Director
Welcome Letter from Sue and Joe