By Daniel R. Durrett
@FilmDitz
Once again, it’s that time of year for something DIFF-erent… a grouping of excellent and worldwide films curated by the artistic team at the Dallas Film Society. Led by what I feel is one of the best direct artistic directors in the United States, James Faust.
Much of this may be due to our age being similar, and our collegiate experiences close as well, but I do tend to enjoy what he also likes.
So for the fans of the ReelNewz if I’m ready to rant and rave over something, chances are if you like what I like you’re gonna also like many of the choices Faust makes for DIFF each year. This year, touts feature premier screenings and eye-opening documentaries, as every year.
These selections will feature a diverse and eclectic group of short films of both the narrative and documentary stylings. The biggest addition to the festival this year is the fact that the winners will be Academy award qualifiers. We may see Filmmaker at DIFF walk the stage at the Oscars.
Qualifying awards at the Dallas International Film Festival for the Oscars include grand jury prize for best animated short film, grand jury prize for best documentary short film, and grand jury prize for the best narrative short film.
The film guide link below has the schedule of the fastest active today sign up and get your badges now. “The Salamander King” stands out in my book with a cast of favorites Adrianne Palicki, Ryan Hanson, and The Daily Show’s Dulce Sloan. Director, Austin Nichols brings a slice of Austin to the screen in a story about a group of Austinites who work to save their favorite municipal golf course also their jobs.
For those who love music, “DIY: The Rise and Fall and Rise of Punk”, a retrospective dissection of the punk era from Southern California garages of the 1980s. DIY… is joined by the short film, “The Rise and Decline of Punk Rock”, a narrative short, starring Shane West, that matches nicely with the documentary being shown.
A few other entries into the documentary offerings is The Librarians a story that follows a group of librarians who band together to fight book-banning in their communities. And, get your parkas and water gear ready because Gallagher a documentary about the comedian and his unique style of prop comedy.
There is a significant amount of screenings to get excited about this year at the Dallas International Film Festival, get your tickets and badges today. Many screenings are already selling out.
