The Ann Arbor Film Festival (AAFF) is back for its 62nd annual celebration of independent and experimental filmmaking. Taking place from March 26 to 31, 2024, with online screenings available until April 7, the festival offers a unique platform for visionary filmmakers from around the world. As one of the oldest avant-garde film festivals in North America, the AAFF continues to push the boundaries of cinematic exploration and provide audiences with a captivating experience. Whether you choose to attend in person or virtually, the AAFF promises to be an event that will expand your creative mind and introduce you to innovative works of art.

Exploring the History of the Festival

Since its inception in 1963, the AAFF has been instrumental in showcasing alternative films and providing a critical venue for filmmakers and artists to share their work. Over the years, the festival has introduced audiences to groundbreaking films from renowned filmmakers such as Kenneth Anger, Brian DePalma, Yoko Ono, Agnes Varda, and Andy Warhol. The AAFF has consistently championed film as an art form, earning its reputation as one of the premier platforms for avant-garde cinema in the United States.

Film Selection and Competitions

This year, the AAFF received an impressive 2,971 film submissions from 92 countries. After a rigorous screening process, 110 films from over 30 countries were selected for the competition. These films, each less than 60 minutes in length, represent a diverse range of styles, genres, and narratives. Additionally, the festival will showcase over 75 more films in special screenings, programs, performances, and exhibitions throughout the event.

Purchasing Tickets and Passes

To attend the festival, you can purchase tickets and passes starting from March 1 on the Ann Arbor Film Festival website. The options include Online Only, Full Festival, Weekend Festival, and In-Person and Online Combo passes. Prices range from $65 to $200, with discounts available for members, seniors, and students. By becoming an AAFF member, you not only gain access to discounted tickets but also support the festival’s mission of promoting visionary filmmakers. Memberships start at $30 and offer various benefits, including festival passes at certain levels.

Watching the Festival Online

For the third consecutive year, the AAFF will be a hybrid event, providing both in-person and online viewing options. The online festival allows attendees from all over the world to experience the event from the comfort of their homes. It features juror programs, films in competition, filmmaker interviews, and other engaging online content. Online viewing will be available for a week after the in-person festival concludes, extending until April 7.

Understanding the Program Titles

With a wide array of content showcased throughout the festival, it’s helpful to navigate the different program titles. The Films in Competition programs consist of short films submitted to the festival, while the Features in Competition include either a feature film or a pairing of a feature and a short film. Special Programs are curated around specific thematic ideas, and Off The Screen (OTS) presents new media, videos, live performances, and art installations. Additionally, the Speaker Series offers panel discussions, workshops, and presentations by esteemed artists and filmmakers.

The Awarding Process

The films in competition are eligible for the $23,000 in awards conferred by the AAFF. The festival invites three distinguished artists, Su Friedrich, Deanna Morse, and Wenhua Shi, to serve as jurors and determine the deserving recipients. These awards directly support independent filmmakers, recognizing their work that may not find commercial distribution. The awards ceremony will take place on the closing night of the festival, Sunday, March 31.

Suitability for Different Audiences

While the films are not officially rated, some content may be more appropriate for adult audiences. However, there are family-friendly films available, and the Films in Competition 9 program, titled “Almost All Ages,” is particularly suited for viewers over the age of six. It will be held on Saturday, March 30, at 1:30 PM in the Michigan Theater Main Auditorium.

Discovering Experimental Film

To delve deeper into the world of experimental film during the festival week, the AAFF offers a range of panel discussions and workshops. These events, hosted at North Quad Space 2435, provide an opportunity to learn from industry professionals and engage in thought-provoking conversations. The speaker series events are free and open to the public, allowing everyone to participate in the exploration of experimental cinema.

The 2024 Ann Arbor Film Festival invites you to embark on a journey of artistic discovery. Whether you attend in person or virtually, the festival promises to captivate and inspire you with its diverse selection of films, curated programs, and engaging events. Don’t miss this chance to support visionary filmmakers and experience the forefront of cinematic exploration. Visit the Ann Arbor Film Festival website starting March 1 to secure your tickets and passes, and join us in celebrating the art of cinema at the 62nd Ann Arbor Film Festival.