artform
a weekend to become immersed in film, and connect with talented creators from all over the world. We were floored by some of the amazing films selected for each block. We asked Kathrina, “how do you decide on the films for each?” I watch every film, then start organizing the blocks, of similar genre. I wouldn’t put an animation with murder or horror, and sometimes children attend, so I try to keep some blocks PG. Also when I moderate the Q&A’s, I really need know the films, to be able to ask the right questions.” It’s obvious, Kathrina puts in the time and effort for filmmakers. CRISFF screened 103 short films, 40 more than the year prior. The films were very diverse, with filmmakers and writers flying in from Italy, Australia, Canada, Chicago, and California to name a few. There is nothing quite like this one!!! It was definitely the best Film Festival’s in NYC that we’ve been to! October 19, 20 was truly a charming 82 | MetMagNY.com | 25AMagazine.com
and welcoming weekend celebrating, filmmakers, achievements, and a festival that lends a voice to the indie filmmakers which is truly memorable, and also great networking and vibes. This year Kathrina invited investors, and distributors, who sat in every block, and apparently were very impressed by the high quality of the films, because news is, some have already been offered deals. Who else is behind all of this? Kathrina states, “Well, this year, I was really grateful for my judges who read scripts as well as watching the films, and for the volunteers, photographers, and videographers. Last year was basically all friends, and whoever I could grab to help.” So you’re a one woman show? Kathrina says, “Please, I must mention, the man, behind the projector that makes the films look so gorgeous, Sam Berland, the “Perfectionist Projectionist” as I call him. A few
months before 2018 CRISFF, I was told the tech projectionist of The Tribeca Film Festival left his card. What? Tribeca? Really? I called him, and brought him on. He is a true professional, and works very hard to make every film look perfect. Sam takes on all technical film issues like a champ!! The flawless sound is thanks to Gerard Hoffman, the resident sound and lighting tech of The Cutting Room. He’s worked with Ronnie Wood, Lady Gaga, and David Crosby to name a few. So for now, I do all the designing, and all the creative business that goes into the festival. It’s a lot of work, but once I get some more sponsors, I’ll be able to hire people to help with that.” After 5 blocks of films on Saturday, it doesn’t end there. Happy hour, and then performers who had films, music videos, and documentary’s in the festival entertained us until 1AM. Comedian,