Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

 The Scottsdale International Film Festival Returns for the 17th Year 

-- See Buzz-Worthy Films from Hollywood and Around the Globe --

SCOTTSDALE, AZ (Oct. 9, 2017) – The Scottsdale International Film Festival will return to host the 17th annual film festival this November. This five-day event held at the Harkins Shea 14 kicks off Thursday, Nov. 2, with an opening night reception and the Arizona premiere of “The Ballad of Brown,” starring Bill Pullman. Director Jared Moshé will attend to present the film. The Festival will run through Monday, Nov. 6, with the closing night film “Last Flag Flying,” starring Steve Carrell and Bryan Cranston.

Through the years, the Scottsdale International Film Festival has showcased noteworthy films from Hollywood and around the globe. Many of the pictures screened have gone on to garner critical acclaim, such as “A Man Called Ove,” “The Imitation Game,” “August: Osage County,” “Landfill Harmonica,” “Run Boy Run,” “Certain Women,” and “Lion,” just to name a few.

This year’s programming will be announced Monday, Oct. 9, at www.scottsdalefilmfestival.com.

The 17th annual festival’s lineup will showcase more than 40 films from more than 30 countries, originating from both first-time and seasoned filmmakers.

“The Festival serves as a bridge uniting those who make films with those who enjoy film by providing access to works they may otherwise miss,” said Amy Ettinger, executive director of the Scottsdale International Film Festival.

Programming categories include documentaries; countries of romance; Eastern Europe, Far East, Jewish and Middle Eastern themes; legends of music; and LGBTQ. This season, the Festival will introduce a new category called “Fresh Stories,” with films embracing the 21st century in terms of storytelling in order to appeal to younger audiences.

With a curated selection of comedies, dramas, documentaries, thrillers and more, there are movies for everyone. Bring your critical thinking and appreciation for the arts, and get ready to immerse yourself into the world of cinema.                 

WHAT:                  The 17th Annual Scottsdale International Film Festival

WHEN:                  Thursday, Nov. 2, through Monday, Nov. 6, 2017

WHERE:                Harkins Shea 14

                               7354 E. Shea Blvd.

                               Scottsdale, AZ, 85260

TICKETS:               Individual tickets are $12 per film at the theatre, while supplies last. Tickets guarantee a seat.    

Opening night tickets are $25. Tickets include film and reception with a Western-themed spread. Reception will start at 7 p.m., followed by an awards ceremony honoring Councilwoman Linda Milhaven. The awards and film will start at 8 p.m.                                   

MEMBERSHIP: As a member of the Scottsdale Film Forum, you achieve far more than a shared cultural experience with fellow film and art lovers -- you may count yourself among a vital group that actively contributes to the ongoing sustainability of the Festival. Learn more about levels and benefits at www.scottsdalefilmfestival.com/membership/.

Stay up-to-date on the latest announcements Facebook at www.facebook.com/ScottsdaleIFF or on Twitter at twitter.com/ScottsdaleIFF.

Scottsdale International Film Festival is presented by City of Scottsdale, and made possible in part through a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts.

ABOUT THE SCOTTSDALE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL

Founded in 2001, Scottsdale International Film Festival is an annual five-day destination event that connects audiences with award-winning cinema from around the globe. During its 16-year history, the Festival has presented more than 500 films – ranging from major Academy Award winners to undiscovered indie gems – to more than 90,000 attendees.

The catalyst for the Festival is that “film is art is life is film.” Whether film scholar or film lover, most will agree that film is an art form that is both a reflection of our everyday life and a means to escape it. Film can take us away while at the same time embed us in the truth of other people’s stories, some beautiful, some cruel, and some unimaginable. Our attendees eagerly anticipate each season's program of varying tales, contexts, and characters both rare and relatable.

The Scottsdale International Film festival is a 501(c)3, non-profit organization. For more information, please visit: http://www.ScottsdaleFilmFestival.com/.