The 47th Denver Film Festival: A New Venue and Exciting Lineup
The 47th Denver Film Festival is set to take place from November 1 to November 10, 2023, and this year, it promises to be an unforgettable experience for film lovers. With a shift in venue for most of its red-carpet screenings, the festival is embracing a fresh atmosphere while showcasing a diverse array of films, including Colorado premieres of highly anticipated indie features.
Venue Changes and Highlights
For the first time, the festival’s opening and closing-night red carpet screenings will be held at the Museum of Contemporary Art Denver’s Holiday Theater. This historic venue, recently restored by the museum, has become a vibrant hub for screenings, panels, and musical performances in the Highland neighborhood. The move from the downtown Ellie Caulkins Opera House, a venue that has struggled to fill seats in recent years, marks a significant change in the festival’s approach. However, the Centerpiece presentation of “The Order,” an adaptation of a nonfiction book about a violent neo-Nazi group, will still take place at the Ellie, featuring stars Jude Law and Nicholas Holt.
Star-Studded Screenings
The festival will kick off with the much-anticipated screening of “The Piano Lesson” on November 1, an adaptation of August Wilson’s play featuring Samuel L. Jackson and John David Washington. Writer Virgil Williams will be present to receive the Denver Film’s Excellence in Writing award, adding a special touch to the opening night. The festival will conclude with “September 5,” a gripping dramatization of the 1972 Munich Olympics hostage crisis, starring Peter Sarsgaard and John Magaro, scheduled for November 9.
A Rich Selection of Films
This year’s festival will showcase an impressive lineup of 185 narrative features, shorts, and documentaries. Among the notable Colorado premieres are “The Brutalist,” “Better Man,” “The Room Next Door,” “Emilia Perez,” “Blitz,” “Oh, Canada,” “The Last Showgirl,” and “Nightbitch,” the latter featuring Colorado native Amy Adams. This eclectic mix of films promises to cater to a wide range of tastes, ensuring that every attendee finds something to enjoy.
Celebrating Talent
The festival will also honor several prominent figures in the film industry. Patricia Clarkson, known for her roles in “Sharp Objects” and “Six Feet Under,” will receive the Cassavetes Award during a screening of “Lilly” at the MCA Denver Holiday Theater. Meanwhile, Marianne Jean-Baptiste will be recognized with the Excellence in Acting Award following the screening of “Hard Truths.” Jesse Tyler Ferguson, beloved for his role in “Modern Family,” will be present to accept the CinemaQ LaBahn Ikon Film Award after the screening of “All That We Love” and the short film “It’s Okay.”
Engaging with Filmmakers
In addition to the star-studded appearances, the festival will feature a lineup of directors who will engage with audiences during their screenings. Notable filmmakers such as RaMell Ross (“The Nickel Boys”), Jason Reitman (“Saturday Night”), Nnamdi Asomugha (“The Knife”), and Cristiana Dell’Anna (“Cabrini”) will be present, providing insights into their creative processes and the stories behind their films.
Festival Logistics and Ticket Information
The festival will be anchored at Denver Film’s Sie FilmCenter, with additional screenings taking place at the Ellie, Denver Botanic Gardens, AMC 9 + CO 10, and the MCA Holiday Theater. Tickets for screenings, special presentations, and red carpet events will be available for Denver Film members starting on October 3, with sales opening to the public on October 4. Film enthusiasts can purchase tickets through the festival’s official website, ensuring they don’t miss out on this cinematic celebration.
Conclusion
The 47th Denver Film Festival is shaping up to be a remarkable event, with a new venue, a diverse selection of films, and a host of celebrated guests. As the festival approaches, excitement is building for what promises to be a dynamic and engaging experience for all attendees. Whether you’re a seasoned film buff or a casual viewer, this year’s festival offers something for everyone, making it a must-attend event in the Denver cultural calendar.
