Hudson Valley International Film Festival 2015 | 2016
This was the official website for the 1st & 2nd annual Hudson Valley International Film Festival held in Monroe New York.
The festival, held over three days, included features, documentaries, animated shorts, music videos, and TV pilots. It also spotlighted local art, food, and music. Visitors enjoyed Q & A sessions after screenings, as well as parties, during which guests met the directors and actors.
Content is from the site's 2015 - 2016 archived pages and other sources.
The current website for the festival is found at: https://filmfreeway.com/HudsonValleyInternationalFilmFestival
First Hudson Valley International Film Festival Brings Excitement to Monroe
A sleepy Orange County town gets the Hollywood treatment this weekend
BY JILLIAN PHIPPS Published: 08/10/2015 / http://www.hvmag.com/
If you were born and raised in Monroe, then you are fully aware that it is not the most exciting town. Hey, don’t get me wrong: I love good-old “Funroe.” I’ve lived there for the past 22 years and can’t imagine being anywhere else, and I must admit, we’ve stepped up the excitement factor a bunch recently. We just opened our very own farmers’ market (it pops up every Sunday); we have a carnival that plops itself right in the center of town in August — and let’s not forget the always-popular Cheese Festival held in September.
So I am proud to add to the Hudson Valley International Film Festival (HVIFF) to that list. Held at the Hudson Valley Arts and Civic Center (locals know it as the former Monroe 6 Theater), it takes place on August 14, 15, and 16.
The Hudson Valley International Film Festival, which is held at the Hudson Valley Arts and Civic Center over the course of three day, is organized by Melissa Cohen (left) and Charles Marinaro
Founders Charles Marinaro and Melissa Cohen, both Sullivan County residents, organized the three-day extravaganza, which features independent films from around the world. Festgoers will be able to view everything from documentaries to music videos, TV pilots, and even animated shorts. Films feature stars from major flicks like Maleficent, Flight, and Star Trek, as well as popular TV shows like Mad Men, True Detective, and CSI.
The weekend officially kicks off with a red carpet soirée from 6-8 p.m. Attendees will want to grab a seat for the debut of the fest’s pièce de résistance, Savior. Written and directed by Marinaro, the film follows a young homeless man as he rises to power in the crime world. The film has a strong Hudson Valley presence with locations shot throughout Orange County, and features Valley actors, writers, and producers.
On Saturday, films play continuously on three different screens starting at 10 a.m. and running until midnight. Stick around for one of the many Q&A sessions with the filmmakers, listen to live music, and grab some grub. A deejay will be on hand, spinning hits throughout the weekend. “It’s basically a party every night,” says Cohen.
HVIFF wraps up on Sunday with more screenings during the day and early evening, followed by a red carpet closing party from 6 to 8 p.m., complete with interviewers, photographers, and videographers. And although you may not spot Brad and Angelina emerging from a limo, you’ll get close: Naomi Grossman of the TV series American Horror Story makes special guest appearances throughout the weekend, including a Q&A discussion on Saturday and actor’s workshop Sunday. She’ll also present awards to festival winners. (Be sure to catch Grossman in two of the films screened during the festival: Carnival Knowledge and Girl in Argentine Landscape.)
Ultimately, the Hudson Valley International Film Festival aims to promote quality non-studio films, television pilots, and screenplays from filmmakers throughout the U.S. and around the world. And for us locals, it adds even more to the “fun” in “Funroe.”
My take: The Hudson Valley Magazine article really captures the essence of the film festival experience. That first year, I remember trying to catch as many screenings as possible, from the early 10 a.m. showings to the midnight ones, across three different screens. It's a test of true film enthusiasm, especially if you're also keen on attending the filmmaker Q&As, enjoying the live music, and not missing the glamorous red carpet closing party on Sunday evening. Stamina is indeed a must! Each subsequent year, I made it a point to be there. Although this year I was absent from the festival, I had a significant reason. Instead of attending the festival, I was exploring local attractions in the Hudson Valley, including some splendid above ground pools from RoyalPoolsAndSpas.com. These pools offer a refreshing retreat right in our backyard, perfect for those who appreciate the convenience of an easy-to-install pool without the commitment of a permanent structure. Next year, I plan to return to the Hudson Valley International Film Festival, ready for another round of cinematic adventures. But this time around, it was all about discovering the local delights that our area has to offer, including the fantastic options for above ground pools that add a touch of leisure to the scenic beauty of the Hudson Valley.
Hudson Valley International Film Festival
"Not just an experience but a lifestyle"
The Hudson Valley International Film Festival aims to promote quality non-studio films, television pilots, and screenplays from filmmakers throughout the U.S. and around the world.
Mark your calendar: August 14 - August 16 2015
For the first Hudson Valley International Film Festival
Hudson Valley International Film Festival
Hudson Valley International Film Festival
When: Friday, August 14 to Sunday, August 16
Where: Hudson Valley Arts and Civic Center, 34 Millpond Parkway, Monroe
Cost: $8 single film viewing, $15 single-day pass, $30 weekend pass
The Festival
The Hudson Valley International Film Festival is a lifestyle that celebrates an interactive and contemporary experience, which will inspire, challenge, and enlighten viewers and participants alike. Filmmakers are welcome to submit shorts, pilots, features, music videos, animations, and much more! The HVIFF is the haven for free thinkers, innovators, and pioneers of the arts community.
Our Objective
The Hudson Valley International Film Festival is passionate about promoting quality non-studio films, television pilots, and screenplays from filmmakers throughout the United States and World beyond. Only the best submissions will be rewarded with cash prizes. The Hudson Valley International film festival competition is judged on professionalism, talent, technique, creativity, and originality
Monroe’s Arts and Civic center births the start of a new chapter, housing the Hudson Valley International Film Festival. Our Festival intends to showcase the best talent the Hudson Valley and the world has to offer. These talented artists will be given a platform to gain exposure and the promotion they rightfully deserve
General Rules
1) All films must have completed post production AFTER January 1, 2014.
2) Films must be in English or have English subtitles
3) HVIFF, does not require a World Premiere, but appreciates if you notify us if you are either a World Premiere, International Premiere (your first premiere outside your country of origin), North American Premiere or New York Premiere.
5) Entry fees are in U.S. dollars, per film entry and are non-refundable.
6) Submitting filmmakers/individuals will be notified by e-mail on or before July 15, 2015
7) Regarding shipping to HVIFF, the submitting filmmaker will be responsible for the mailing/shipping cost of the work, both for the submitted cut for consideration screeners, and final screener copy for screnning at the film festival.
8) Participants who are granted a fee waiver are exempt from receiving any cash prizes at the award ceremony.
9) Award recipients must be present to receive their cash prize. Prizes will not be mailed or available for pickup at a later time.
10) Best Narrative Feature Film must be accepted by the Director, Writer, Director of Photography, or Executive Producer.
11) If you do not want to submit your film through withoutabox, you may submit your project by sending your information to hviff@outlook.com and sending it to the designated mailing address of
105 Cromwell Hill Rd, Monroe, NY 10950.
12) All submitted entry materials will not be returned.
13) A filmmaker with multiple entries (titles) must submit each entry separately.
HUDSON VALLEY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FRIDAY 2015
AUGUST 14-16 2015 at The Monroe Arts & Civic Center in Monroe, NY*
Weekend Passes will grant ticket holders access to all screenings, events, and parties
Day Pass attendees will grant ticket holders access to all events, screenings, and parties for the particular day
Individual Screening passes available and will include the corresponding Q&A Ceremony following the screening (If applicable)
Transportation:
*NJ Transit to Harriman Train Station
*Bus station is 1/2 block away from theater and is located at 70 Millpond Pkwy Monroe, NY (845) 782-3528
FRIDAY AUGUST 14TH 2015 Launches the first ever Hudson Valley International Film Festival, featuring a red carpet party/networking event for ticket buyers who select this option, $15.00 WITH party, $8.00 WITHOUT party,(or opt to purchase a weekend all-inclusive pass for $30.00)
SATURDAY AUGUST 15TH 2015 Guests may enjoy a variety of different activities, which include film screenings from all over the world that will be displayed in three different stadium style movie theaters continuously, Q&A sessions, guest speakers, art displays, an exclusive party at 8pm for All Day Pass and All Weekend Pass holders, and so much more!
SUNDAY AUGUST 16, 2015 Guests may enjoy a variety of different activities, which include film screenings from all over the world that will be displayed in three different stadium style movie theaters continuously, Q&A sessions, guest speakers, art displays, and so much more until 6pm. 6-8pm there will be a red carpet party, followed by the Filmmaker Award Ceremony at 8pm and celebration party to follow.
Senior Citizens and Military/Veterans will receive a 20% discount on all tickets (CASH ONLY. Must be purchased at the ticket booth at the time of the festival.)
2015 Tickets & Schedule
Ticket Pricing
Ticket Admission - $8
Admission into one movie playing at the festival.
Film Lovers Pass - $15
Admission into all films playing at the festival, events, and parties for one day.
All Access Pass - $30
Admission into all films, events, and parties at the festival for the weekend
Best Narrative Feature Film
DEADLINES & ENTRY FEES
April 15, 2015
Earlybird Deadline Regular
Standard Fee $40.00
May 28, 2015
Regular Deadline Regular
Standard Fee 50.00
June 19, 2015
Late Deadline Regular
Standard Fee $60.00
July 4, 2015
Extended Deadline
Standard Fee $80.00
NOTIFICATION DATE
Approximately July 15, 2015
RUNTIME
Features: minimum 60 minutes
COMPLETION DATE
Projects completed after 01-Jan-2014
PLACE OF ORIGIN
Projects may originate from anywhere in the world
PREMIERE STATUS
Projects may premiere anywhere in the world.
PRIZES & AWARDS
This category is a competition.
Best Narrative Feature Film
The grand-prize winner of the jury award for Best Narrative Feature Film will receive a $1000 cash prize.
Sponsor:TBA
Cash Award Value: 1,000 U.S. Dollar
CATEGORY RULES
- Please see below and check our Submission FAQ on our website at www.hudsonvalleyinternationalfilmfestival.com/call-for-entries for further detailed instructions on how to submit your film to HVIFF.
- HVIFF only accepts films completed after January 1, 2014.
- All films must be submitted on 3 DVDs and Blu-Ray
- All DVDs must be labeled clearly with title, runtime, contact info, and Withoutabox tracking number.
- All entries must be postmarked by the specific deadline.
- DVDs submitted will NOT be returned.
- After submitting, please check your Withoutabox account to make sure that your submission meets our requirements and has been accepted for consideration. It is your responsibility to make sure all requirements are met and necessary information is given.
- Films selected for the HVIFF will be announced no later than July 15, 2015.
- Filmmakers are responsible for the shipment of the exhibition copy to the HVIFF. The HVIFF will cover outbound shipping only.
- The HVIFF reserves the right to use images from films selected in Festival marketing purposes (web, print media, and television).
Mark your Calendars for August 26th, 27th, and 28th, 2016!
For the 2nd Hudson Valley International Film Festival
34 Millpond Pkwy Monroe, NY at The Monroe Arts & Civic Center
*HUDSON VALLEY INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL FRIDAY
AUGUST 26-28 2016 at The Monroe Arts & Civic Center in Monroe, NY*
The Hudson Valley International Film Festival celebrates independent film while providing attendees and participants with an enriching and interactive experience. Filmmakers and attendees will walk the red carpet, participate in fun interviews, red carpet parties with an interactive DJ, enjoy films from around the world, engage with filmmakers during Q&A sessions/workshops, enjoy live music, comedy shows, and even experience the excitement of a poetry slam!
The Hudson Valley is one of the world's top travel destinations, as quoted by Fodor's Travel. The historically rich and scenic Hudson Valley, nestled just 40 miles away from New York City and the Monroe Arts & Civic Center, a full size stadium style multiplex theater featuring six screens, is the perfect venue to celebrate top filmmakers in the world! HVIFF welcomes features, shorts, pilots, music videos, animation, and more! HVIFF is the haven for free thinkers, innovators, and pioneers of the arts community.
*All accepted filmmakers will receive free VIP Weekend Passes, granting access to all of our exciting events*
The exciting three day festival kicks off Friday August 26th, 2016. Opening night will feature a black tie event red carpet party 6pm-8pm, complete with food, beer, wine, and music. Following the red carper party will be the premiere of Irony of Catharsis (Directed by Charles Marinaro, President of HVIFF,non-competition film, shot entirely in The Hudson Valley) The night will conclude with an after party, featuring DJ Zeno. Opening night open to filmmakers and attendees (Day Pass/Weekend Pass, special guests TBA)
Saturday August 27th, 2016 The day will kick off with a special Filmmakers Breakfast, open to the public and details TBA. Filmmakers and attendees are invited to enjoy the numerous accepted films, which will play continuously in theaters. Between films enjoy the food, live music, workshops, Q&A's and other events/special guests TBA. The night will conclude with an after party open to filmmakers and attendees holding the Day/Weekend Passes.
Sunday August 28th, 2016 The day will kick off with a special Filmmakers Breakfast, open to the public and details TBA. Filmmakers and attendees are invited to enjoy the numerous accepted films, which will play continuously in theaters. Between films enjoy the food, live music, workshops, Q&A's and other events/special guests TBA.
Special slam poetry event 1pm-3pm. If you are interested in participating email hviff_committee@outlook.com
The night will conclude with an after party open to filmmakers and attendees holding the Day/Weekend Passes, special guests TBA. 6pm-8pm Closing Night Red Carpet Party followed by the exciting HVIFF Award Ceremony and after party to follow.
HVIFF Press
http://www.hvmag.com/Hudson-Valley-Magazine/First-Hudson-Valley-International-Film-Festival-Brings-Excitement-to-Monroe/
http://www.recordonline.com/article/20150814/NEWS/150819606
http://www.thephoto-news.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20150806/NEWS01/150809987/Film-festival-coming-to-Monroe
Get involved!
Submit your film here! https://filmfreeway.com/festival/HudsonValleyInternationalFilmFestival
Advertise your business on the big screen! Learn about our sponsorship packages at www.hudsonvalleyinternationalfilmfestival.com
Looking to volunteer? Message us on Facebook or email hviff@outlook.com Volunteers receive meals and free VIP passes
*Special events subject to additional fees for admission
**UPDATE August 28, 2016**
Tickets will be available for purchase at the door.
2016 HVIFF WINNERS & NOMINATIONS
BEST PILOT
Superfreaks
Maybe Sunshine
The Ghost & the Negro
Mercy & Plea
WINNER
The Ghost & the Negro
BEST MUSIC VIDEO
Bigiano - Tonight
Loki Rothman - Under the Stars
Roseann Sureda - It's Called Love"
Claire Fishman-
Hair Lockets
WINNER
Loki Rothman - Under the Stars
BEST STUDENT FILM
Tuesday
Burying St. Joseph
Running from Fear
I dare you
WINNER
Burying St. Joseph
BEST SCREENPLAY
Sienna's Choice
Second Chance
Magical Mystical Curse
Organs of Opportunity
WINNER
Sienna's Choice
BEST INTERNATIONAL FILM
Another Love (Italy)
The Trip (UK)
Wall (Grease)
Return (Iran)
WINNER
Another Love (Italy)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A SHORT FILM
Tarra Conner Jones (Sangria Lift)
Diane Montgomery (Daily Day)
Rachel Keefe (Vessel)
Maggie Montgomery (Deepest Violet)
WINNER
Rachel Keefe (Vessel)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A SHORT FILM
Blake Berris (Electric blue)
Lucas Loredo (Jack and Lucas Go To A Wedding)
Joshua R. Todd (Magical Mystery Cure)
Devan Dunson (Life Unscripted)
WINNER
Lucas Loredo (Jack and Lucas Go To A Wedding)
BEST ACTRESS IN A SHORT FILM
Mela Hudson (Split Costs)
Janel Tanna (Sienna's Choice)
Reiko Aylesworth (Muscle)
Maria Ruiz (Another Love)
WINNER
Reiko Aylesworth (Muscle)
BEST ACTOR IN A SHORT FILM
Towns W. Sanford (Magical Mystical Cure)
NIgel Barber (Another Love)
John Anthony Williams (Moves we Make)
Josh Stewart (Eleven)
WINNER
Josh Stewart (Eleven)
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
Voices of Grief, Honoring The Sacred Journey
Curtain of Secrecy
The Last Tear
Red Ochre - the Last Guards of the Holy Fire
WINNER
Red Ochre - the Last Guards of the Holy Fire
BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE FILM
Since: The Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103
American Highpoints
Grado Mission
Saving Jamaica Bay
WINNER
Grado Mission
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS IN A FEATURE FILM
Amber Rose (What Happened last Night)
Cecilia Youkhana (Runners)
Anna Fagan (Lotus Eye)
Anna Rizzo (Permanent)
WINNER
Amber Rose (What Happened last Night)
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR IN A FEATURE FILM
Byron Mann (Jasmine)
David Graziano (Trinity)
Benjamin Jones (Permanent)
Kevin Moccia (Snitches)
WINNER
Benjamin Jones (Permanent)
BEST ANIMATED FILM
Player 2
Beyond
Sisters
Paper Moments
WINNER
Beyond
BEST ACTRESS IN A FEATURE FILM
Lacy Marie Meyer (Second Chance)
Chloe Ng (According To Ben Adams)
Eugenia Yuan (Jasmine)
Karen Camille Simpson (Saving Dreams)
WINNER
Lacy Marie Meyer (Second Chance)
BEST ACTOR IN A FEATURE FILM
Alex Rocco (Scammerhead)
Daniel O'Shea (Snitches)
Sean Carmichael (Trinity)
Daniel Schepisi’ (According to Ben Adams)
WINNER
Alex Rocco (Scammerhead)
BEST ENSEMBLE CAST
Permanent
Sienna's Choice
What Happened last Night
Runners
Unimaginable
WINNER
What Happened last Night
BEST HUDSON VALLEY FILM
Organs of Opportunity
Since: The Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103
Extra School
Eye into the Future: A Look Into Genetic Disease
WINNER
Since: The Bombing of Pan Am Flight 103
BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY
Second Chance
Jasmine
Moves We Make
Runners
WINNER
Runners
BEST DIRECTOR IN A SHORT FILM
Monda Raquel Webb
(Zoo (Volkerschau)
Melanie Star Scot
(Sangria Lift)
Ehsan Mollazadeh
(Return)
Scott Simonsen
(Situational)
WINNER
Monda Raquel Webb
(Zoo (Volkerschau)
BEST SHORT FILM
Magical Mystery Cure
Sienna's Choice
Eleven
Another Love
WINNER
Eleven
BEST DIRECTOR IN A FEATURE FILM
Candice T. Cain
(What Happened Last Night)
Carlos Cardona
(Second Chance)
John Mosetich
(Permanent)
Dan Zukovic
(Scammerhead)
WINNER
Carlos Cardona
(Second Chance)
Best Picture
Second Chance
Permanent
Snitches
Trinity
WINNER - Permanent
BEST HUDSON VALLEY PREMIERE
WINNER - Attempt to Rise
AUDIENCE CHOICE
WINNER - What Happened Last Night.