The Scottsdale International Film Festival, (SIFF) an annual 10-day event that connects audiences with award-winning cinema from around the globe, is celebrating featured performances that have been recognized by the Phoenix Film Critics Society. Eight of SIFF’s films and performers in them have received critical acclaim, further fueling anticipation of the festival’s 19th year schedule.
“Afterlife,” directed by Willem Bosch, was recognized across five categories, earning best film, best screenplay and best director awards for Bosch. Lead actress, Sanaa Giwa, and supporting actor Jan-Paul Buijs, were also recognized for their performances in the Dutch film that challenges audiences to grapple with tough choices and ultimately appreciate the life they’ve been given.
“We’ve assembled a truly remarkable slate of films for this year’s Scottsdale International Film Festival, and these awards further demonstrate the type of talent that will be on screen,” Amy Ettinger, SIFF Executive Director, said. “The stories that are told in these films, and the performances that are given, are world class. And we feel privileged to be able to bring them to new audiences.”
The Human Part, a Finnish film about a bankrupt CEO who pretends he isn’t, was also recognized by the Phoenix Film Critics Society for its stars, Hannu-Pekka Bjorkman (Best Actor) and Ria Kataja (Best Supporting Actress). And, Unsettled: Seeking Refuge in America, was honored as Best Documentary Film.
SIFF kicked off opening night with Noah Baumbach’s film “Marriage Story” starring Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson on Friday, November 1 at 7 p.m. at the Scottsdale Center for the Performing Arts. Running through Sunday, November 10, SIFF will also feature Shia LaBeouf’s “Honey Boy”, Sundance award-winning film “Waves”, “Clemency” showcasing Alfre Woodard, Cannes award-winning film “Portrait of a Lady On Fire”, the witty crime-drama “Knives Out” and the comedy-drama “The Two Popes” starring Anthony Hopkins and Jonathon Pryce.
Following opening night, SIFF will move to Harkins Shea 14 from November 2 through November 3 and add a third location at the Harkins Camelview at Fashion Square from November 4 through November 7. SIFF returns to Harkins Shea 14 on November 8, for the remainder of its film screenings. The final evening of the festival is set to feature the highly-anticipated American biographical drama “Ford v. Ferrari” starring Academy Award-winners Matt Damon and Christian Bale.
To learn more about the Scottsdale International Film Festival, featured screenings, special guests and ticket information, please visit ScottsdaleFilmFestival.com.
