Monday, March 16, 2015

Environmental Film Festival Celebrates 23rd Anniversary, Starts Tomorrow


It's hard to believe the Environmental Film Festival is turning 23 this year. It may not garner quite the same level of notoriety that Filmfest DC does; but I have a hard time choosing one over the other. Thankfully, with a month in between, I (and thousands of other DC movie lovers) can enjoy both. The 23rd annual EFF starts tomorrow (March 17th) and runs through Sunday, March 29th. In between, audiences will be treated to over 180 films (most of which are FREE) across 55 venues, including the National Gallery of Art, National Geographic Society and several local Embassies (always a favorite of mine, to visit.)

If you're like me, you probably plan ahead. Thankfully, the EFF is one step ahead of us: They came up with My Itinerary, which keeps track of all your screenings/RSVPs, etc. It's a terrific tool (trust me.) Schedules (click here) are broken down by day, film and venue, with convenient links to make reservations (if needed.) You can even watch 27 different films online (for FREE) by clicking here. All that's missing now is popcorn and soda (conveniently available at a select few venues including AFI Silver, the Avalon Theatre and Landmark E Street Cinema.)

Harrison Ford stars in Blade Runner

As its name infers, the EFF focuses on environmental issues such as climate change, extinction and all things green. That doesn't mean boring, mind you... just different. Need to quench your thirst for something commercial? You can catch 1982 classic Blade Runner (three different cuts, no less) at AFI Silver, over four different nights. In fact, you can get a double fix of Harrison Ford by seeing Years of Living Dangerously at American University on Saturday, March 28th. That one's free (you have to pay to see Blade Runner.)

BIKES vs CARS (Photo: Janice D'Avila)

The EFF is the longest-running environmental film festival in the United States, and longevity has its perks... Namely, guests. As in years past, expect to see a plethora of advocates, dignitaries and filmmakers. The festival kicks off tomorrow with the DC premiere screening of BIKES vs CARS (and Opening Reception) at the Carnegie Institution for Science's Elihu Root Auditorium. Tickets cost $25, and are available online (click here.)

Racing Extinction (Photo: Oceanic Preservation Society)

It wraps up on Sunday night, March 29th with a Closing Night Reception, award presentation and the DC premiere of Racing Extinction. The film's director, Oscar winner Louie Psihoyos (The Cove) will be in attendance, and is set to receive the Festival’s Documentary Award for Environmental Advocacy. Tickets cost $25, and are available online (click here.)

To learn more about the festival, visit www.dcenvironmentalfilmfest.org.