The Chandler International Film Festival (CIFF) announced it will once again return for the fourth consecutive year. Featuring over 120 films from more than 35 countries and six continents, this year’s festival will take place Jan. 17 to 20 at the Harkins Chandler Fashion Center, located off Chandler Blvd and the Loop 101. CIFF will be partnering with two nonprofits this year, Cece’s Hope Center and Boys & Girls Clubs of the East Valley. Each organization will receive 100% of the profits from a select festival film.
Known as one of the fastest-growing film festivals in Arizona, CIFF was created to bring together filmmakers, industry professionals and film fanatics to celebrate all genres of cinema. Along with a diverse mix of international films, the weekend will include a variety of programming and events including a red carpet, opening ceremony, award ceremony, filmmaker workshops, Q&As, panel discussions, daily after parties, and celebrity guest appearances.
“I’m beyond thrilled with the positive feedback and praise we receive for the Chandler International Film Fest each year,” said Mitesh Patel, CIFF president and festival director. “Our goal is to showcase diversity, innovation, and uniqueness through the works of filmmakers from across the world in a local setting. Thanks to the support and participation of talented filmmakers and the local community, we’re able to do just that.”
Each film at this year’s festival will be making its Arizona premiere, including acclaimed filmmaker Michael Winterbottom’s latest film, “Greed,” and new filmmaker Bora Kim’s “House of Hummingbird.” Other anticipated screenings include Daniel Roher’s documentary, “Once Were Brothers: Robbie Robertson And The Band,” and Lisa Barros D’Sa and Glenn Leyburn’s “Ordinary Love,” starring Academy Award® nominees Liam Neeson and Lesley Manville.
“This year we aimed to continue programming films from the best filmmakers in the world and also capture films of the moment, tackling issues important to everyone,” said Judd Taylor, director of programming at CIFF. “We strive to not only entertain, but also to educate, and know our audiences will be excited for this year’s lineup.”
Festival sponsors include Bernard Justice Johnsen Law, PLLC, Burst of Butterflies Create & Paint Studio, Casanova Bros., Chandler Multicultural Festival, Desert Car Care Center of Chandler, Harkins Theaters, Hi-YAH!, Magnolia Pictures, Residence Inn Marriott, Visit Chandler, and Well Go USA Entertainment. For more information about CIFF and to purchase tickets, visit www.chandlerfilmfestival.com or check the Facebook page @ChandlerFilmFest.
