RICHMOND, Va. -- The Richmond International Film Festival has announced the more than 135 films that will be premiered over the six day event.
From April 21-26, the festival will showcase films from 20 countries as well as performances from more than 35 bands, panels, mixers, and events at venues across the city.
The festival will feature several "headliner premieres" where films will be accompanied by commentary and Q &A sessions from filmmakers and cast members.
RIFF’s 2020 Vision Symposium featuring documentary features and shorts will highlight topics including Human Trafficking, Juvenile Justice, Immigration & Refugees, Mental Health, Incarceration & Rehabilitation Programming with extended Q&As, Roundtables or Panels to follow each. More details further below on symposium films and special guests.
Highlighted international film highlights include:
- "The Orphanage" (Tajikistan/Afghanistan)
- "Victories Place" (France)
- "Can Art Stop A Bullet" (Australia)
- "Power of Soul" (Germany)
- "A Soul Journey" (UK/Italy)
- "Exit 5" (Saudi Arabia)
Notable films and series throughout Virginia include "Breaking The Chain," a film exploring animal overpopulation and neglect, "16 Bars," a film which follows a musical rehabilitation program at the Richmond City jail, and "Digging for Weldon Irvine," which explores the life and legacy of prolific musician-composer-playwright Weldon Irvine.
New this year, RIFF is bringing a full day symposium of films that center on societal and community issues that impact Richmond, Virginia and cities across the nation. This special programming selection will take place at the Byrd Theatre on Thursday, April 23 and following the film premieres will have roundtable discussions, panels, and extended Q & A’s. Spotlights addressed in this program include: Human Trafficking, Juvenile Justice, Mental Health, Adult Incarceration & Program Rehabilitation, Advocacy, Civic Participation & Community Awareness.
The film venues include the Byrd Theatre, Bow Tie Movieland, Bow Tie Criterion, Sound of Music Studios and Hardywood Craft Brewery while music venues include Sound of Music Studios, Tang & Biscuit, Hardywood Craft Brewery, and the Black Iris.
Capping off the festival on Sunday, April 26th will be the annual Red Carpet Awards where top honors selected by the Grand Jury and audience will be announced and awarded in various categories for film, music, and writing
Head to the Richmond International Film Festival's website for a schedule of events, film descriptions, and to purchase advanced tickets.
