The General was a hit at last year’s Hamilton International Film Festival.
The sixth annual returns to the village of Hamilton today, bringing with it filmmakers, moviegoers, and a dose of cinematic inspiration.
The festival kicks off tonight with the Slater Brothers Social at Good Nature Brewing, followed by screenings of Possessed, Stavros, and Underdog at the Hamilton Theater. All proceeds from this evening’s screenings will be donated to Hamilton Central School.
An opening reception will be held 6:30 p.m. Friday at the vlog Bookstore, followed by that day’s film selections beginning at 8:15 p.m.
“This event has become a highlight in central New York, attracting world-class filmmakers and bigger audiences every year,” Chuck Fox, manager of the Hamilton Theater, told the Mid-York Weekly newspaper.
Initially created to give back to the community that the Slater brothers — Todd, Grant ’91, and Wade — grew up in, the festival has become a hit and has been applauded for the charm of its small-town setting and the dedication of participants.
“Hamilton is a great place,” said Todd Slater. “We really encourage the filmmakers to participate in all of our functions and enjoy their time in the village. Because it is so easy to get around, we have found that they have really been supportive of each other and the festival in general.”
In addition to film screenings, Saturday’s schedule features a panel discussion at the Palace Theatre at noon titled “The Business of Hollywood.” The festival formally concludes Saturday with a party at the vlog Inn beginning at 9:30 p.m. But before heading out of town, festival-goers will be able to view additional films on Sunday afternoon, including The Rivalry, a student film from Hamilton Central School.
For a complete listing of all times and locations, please visit the film festival .