New details are coming to light about the upcoming Gasparilla International Film Festival. Presented for the first time at Channelside Cinemas, GIFF's screenings and events will take place March 25-29.
Kicking things off: Before the main slate of festival screenings begin — which takes place exclusively at Channelside — opening night's film and reception will once again usher in GIFF at Tampa Theatre. The festival selected The Surface as GIFF 2015's opening night film. The thriller-drama tells the story of two strangers who meet in the middle in Lake Michigan and the events that unfold after. Plans are underway for all actors to make an appearance for opening night. Gil Cates Jr. directs. The film stars Sean Astin and Chris Mulkey. All three are committed to appear except co-star Mimi Rogers who is finalizing her schedule, GIFF executive director Monica Varner said. (Movie trailer embedded below.)
More refreshment options: The festival will offer more options with food and drink — popcorn machines and other concession-style treats for moviegoers in addition to an open container policy, according to a press release issued today. Attendees can bring both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks from nearby venues inside the theater.
Bring the kids: A Family Day will be featured. “With Suncoast Credit Union as the Title Sponsor of our new Family Day we are able to share the film festival experience with the youngest members of our community," Varner said. "We are very excited that Suncoast Credit Union’s involvement allows us to expand our festival offerings with free family-friendly games, activities and film screenings.”
Last year’s festival attracted more than 13,500 attendees. The increased traffic translated to more than $1.4 million in direct spending during the festival and more than 1,200 additional hotel room nights, according to GIFF.
For more information visit gasparillafilmfestival.com, facebook.com/gasparillafilm or twitter.com/gasparillafilm.