the local life: Culture and Clubs Envelope, Please
WE’RE ALL WINNERS WITH OUR LOCAL FILM FESTIVAL “Our community is so robust in its cultural offerings,” says Kelley Vickery, founder and artistic director of the Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF). “But when I started BIFF, it seemed to me that we were celebrating everything except for film. So this is really a celebration of independent film and filmmakers.” And celebrate we have—this is BIFF’s 17th year. Over the course of a weekend, the festival features films, of course, but also much more: intimate talks with filmmakers about their craft, elbow-rubbing with industry insiders (not to mention star sightings), delicious local food, and festive parties. All against the beautiful backdrop of the Berkshires. At our press time, the lineup and details hadn’t been released yet for this year’s Festival (look for that in late April)—but that doesn’t stop us from calling out some top reasons to be there.
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The BIFF team with cast and crew from “Art & Krimes:” Jared Owens, Kelley Vickery, Alysa Nahmias, Jesse Krimes, Lauren Ferin, Russell Craig, and Gilberto Rivera
It’s simply a fabulous way to start summer in the Berkshires. This year, BIFF takes place from June 1 to 4. Support independent and local filmmakers—and get your indie cred. You’ll see movies before they’re released in other theaters or on streaming services—you may even see some that aren’t distributed in the U.S. at all.
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Whether you love docs or dramas, with 75 films this year, there’s truly something for everyone, including family-friendly fare and the always-popular shorts.
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Meet the makers! “Having filmmakers there creates a very connective experience,” says Vickery. “And filmmakers love this audience.” Some talented pros make repeat appearances at BIFF, thanks to the welcoming, engaged audience.
Filmmaker Kristi Zea, honoree Alfre Woodard, and actor and BIFF board member Karen Allen
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Berkshire International Film Festival, June 1-4 Great Barrington and Lenox | biffma.org
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THE B • Spring 2023
“Pretty Problems” filmmakers on the Mahaiwe stage with board member Mary Mott: Kestrin Pantera, Michael Tennant, and Britt Rentschler
P H OTO S : J U L I A K A P L A N
Immersing yourself in movies and spending time with fellow film lovers makes you feel a part of the BIFF community within the Berkshires community. “A real kind of kinship develops over the weekend,” says Vickery. “Sitting in a dark movie theater with people in your community and watching the big screen, eating your popcorn…there’s just nothing else like it.”