The Syracuse International Film Festivalhas just started its 11 day run, and like everything else, it’s been retrofitted for audiences during a pandemic. WCNY public television is bringing all 70 films to viewers on four platforms, including traditional TV (channel 24), its digital channel, Zoom, and on-demand. Film Festival President John Ginty says they were flooded with entries from 15 countries.
"I don't know if it was because of the pandemic, but this year we actually ended up with more films than we've ever received. We received several hundred more than we normally would have."
Ginty says they cover every genre, from over-the-top comedy shorts to poignant feature length films and serious documentaries. He hopes the films provide an escape.
"Art is that time and that moment where we can fade away into something else, whether it's something fantastic, or whether it's something emotionally invigorating. The arts have been a place for people to go for a respite during the pandemic over the last 8-9 months now."
WCNY President and CEO Mitch Gelman says that's why they're pleased to provide television and digital platforms to experience films together during these times.
"I think we'd all agree that there are not enough places given the state of our world where people are able to come together and share experiences. The arts, and particularly the incredible films that have been selected, give us the opportunity to get together, share an experience, and relate on a very human level."
There will be virtual watch parties and curated discussions with filmmakers. The Zoom films require registration here. The festival runs through November 15th.
