Story and photos by Laticia Headings
T
he eighth annual Middleburg Film Festival (MFF) is once again in full swing as film lovers anticipate another year of critically-acclaimed films, innovative and socially-distanced events, and captivating conversations with special guests. Like most big events that draw enthusiastic crowds, the MFF, taking place October 1518th, has recalibrated for the times. “The safety and well-being of our filmgoers has been our primary concern as we weighed the options for this year’s festival,” executive director Susan Koch says. “We’re delighted that we’re able to offer a mix of both in-person and outdoor screenings.” Evening films will be socially-distanced and held outdoors on the grand lawn of the Salamander Resort. There will be a “pop-up” drive-in located in the lower parking lot. For those who prefer to watch movies at home, a line-up of approximately 20 films will be available virtually throughout the four days of the festival. Audiences will also be able to discuss films and swap opinions in a virtual festival lounge. Conversations will accompany some of this year’s films. As in years past, there will be award tributes and Q&A’s with leading filmmakers, actors and guests, and a concert Festival | Page 7
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middleburglife.com
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OCTOBER 2020