Local movie and production fans have been watching their choice of 40 films on the big screen this week as they attend the 19th annual Syracuse International Film Festival.
The festival will last through Saturday, and screenings and events will occur at several locations.
"We’re going to be at Art Rage today, the Marriot Downtown, and the MOST," Syracuse International Film Festival President John Ginty said.
Ginty said some renowned film industry names will join audiences for interactive discussions after the movies play at the Marriot Downtown.
“We’re very excited just to be in the presence of filmmakers who have done this for literally decades, and on the other end of the spectrum, those who are just starting to discover their voice," Ginty said.
Ginty said New York-based filmmakers and movies will get their chance to shine, as films shot in the state are also in the line-up.
“'The Mental State' which was just beautifully done, and it really showcased a lot of the landscape of New York and how beautiful it can be, in winter even, so that was pretty great," Ginty said.
The festival also features student productions in its New Filmmakers Showcase. The showcase of young talent is happening until 6 p.m. Friday at the Marriot Downtown.
“Their seeing things from a different angle and a different perspective, especially with the technology, social media," Ginty said. "So, a lot of that is informing how they shoot and why they shoot and how the story revolves.”
Ginty said a lot of Syracuse University Students get jobs at American High, a production company based in Liverpool, after graduation. The job keeps past students in the area, as opposed to relocating to places like L.A.
The complete schedule for events and films at the festival can be found on the Syracuse International Film Festival website.
