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Since 2013 the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival, a one night event, has been featuring an array of professional independent films from around the country, local filmmakers and participation from the prestigious film schools of Florida State University and Savannah College of Art and Design. The outdoor festival located along the river’s edge in historic downtown Apalachicola, Florida, creates a majestic and memorable venue like no other of its kind.
This was the film festivals official website from 201 - 2015.
Most of the content is from the site's 2015 archived pages, as well as from other outside sources.

For information about future Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festivals go to the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce website at www.apalachicolabay.org/

Join us for a unique film festival experience on the majestic Apalachicola River, as we celebrate the art and love of film-making while enjoying the outdoors! This event features independent short films, local films, documentaries and student films. There is something for everyone to enjoy with film genres ranging from environmental documentaries to comedies, dramas, animation and music videos. The festival offers delicious cuisine, fine wines and much more as you enter through an inviting yet elegant tent, then settle down on the lawn of the Riverfront Park with your chairs and blankets to watch the show beneath the moonlight on a 40 foot screen.

This event features independent short films from around the world, local films, documentaries and student films. There is something for everyone to enjoy with film genres ranging from environmental documentaries to comedies, dramas, animation and music videos. This year’s special guest is Kevin McCarey, an Emmy Award winning filmmaker, published author and aspiring playwright, and currently a Professor of Film at Savannah College of Art & Design. Local cuisine, fine wines, and beverages will be offered upon entering the festival through an inviting yet elegant tent, then settling down on the lawn of Riverfront Park with your chairs & blankets to watch the show on a 40 foot screen nestled at the southern end of the park. The three hour event starts at 7:30pm, so come a little early to enjoy the food, scenery and to grab a good seat!

Hosted by the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce & Visitor Center

 

PRESS

Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival celebrates it’s second festival Saturday, October 10th 2015 at home on Riverfront Park downtown Apalachicola. This year is sure to be as entertaining as the first event with more fantastic films, breathtaking ambiance, delicious food, great friends and an all-around fun time at the movies! Once again this outdoor event will feature a vast genre of short films. This year we have collaborated with Telluride Mountain Film Festival showcasing five of their exceptional films. Also featured are local Tallahassee and Blountstown filmmakers, more extraordinary college-level student films, international shorts, music videos with original music, documentaries, comedies, dramas and much more!

Exciting new additions are being added to the film festival with hopes of making your experience even more enjoyable, while keeping the same vibe as before with the tent, seating areas and screen: Upon entering the festival through a ticketed entrance, attendees meander through a chic white 40x40 tent containing locally prepared cuisine, desserts, wine, beer and non-alcoholic beverages available for purchase. An elegant and inviting atmosphere including chandeliers and a lounge area with linen covered bistro tables for dining and socializing complete with floral and candle decorations sets the mood for this upscale film festival. Attendees enter onto the grass where the décor flows from the tent onto the lawn and soft lighting lines the park. The outdoor festival ambiance is inviting for all film viewers. The park is reserved for attendees with lawn chairs and blankets, along with VIP sponsor sections. A 40ft screen positioned at the south end of the park provides an optimal viewing experience. Festival goers are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets to ensure a comfortable experience on this fall evening. The gate opens at 6 pm. Show begins at 7:30pm and ending around 10pm. Please, no coolers.

With the support from our Florida region and beyond, our new film festival is being launched with a tremendous amount of energy and enthusiasm. This annual production has the potential to become a prominent event in the Southeast for years to come. This is an opportunity to host a prestigious celebration that brings culture, education and enjoyment to a community while utilizing an incredible backdrop provided by nature.

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My father is a real film buff. Until he moved from Florida to the Hart Heritage Estates, the best assisted living in Bel Air, Maryland, as far as I am concerned, he always attended the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival. He attended the first festival in 2013 and every year it was held there after. Sadly with his move north to Maryland, he will miss the 2020 Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival. I considered having him move into a home for seniors in Florida. Lord knows there are enough of them. But I live in the Bel Air area of Maryland, and wanted to be able to visit him weekly to make sure everything was ok. Hart Heritage Estates has two locations. I chose their Forest Hill senior living facility. Although my father was a bit nervous about the move north, when he saw the 6.5 acres of park-like grounds around the assisted living facility he was delighted. Besides be a film fan, my father is also an avid birder. Whenever I visit we peruse Hulu and Netflix to see what films are available. I then program the movies so all my father has to do is turn on his TV at the appropriate time, and voila, he has movies at his finger tips. Nothing will replace the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival, but this is a pretty acceptable alternative.

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Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival

Join us for a unique film festival experience on the majestic Apalachicola River beneath October’s full moon, as we celebrate the art and love of filmmaking while enjoying the outdoors! This event features independent short films from around the world, local films, documentaries and student films. There is something for everyone to enjoy with film genres ranging from environmental documentaries to comedies, dramas, animation and music videos. This year’s special guest is Kevin McCarey, an Emmy Award winning filmmaker, published author and aspiring playwright, and currently a Professor of Film at Savannah College of Art & Design. Local cuisine, fine wines, and beverages will be offered upon entering the festival through an inviting yet elegant tent, then settling down on the lawn of Riverfront Park with your chairs & blankets to watch the show on a 40 foot screen nestled at the southern end of the park. The three hour event starts at 7:30pm, so come a little early to enjoy the food, scenery and to grab a good seat!

Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival • Historic Apalachicola Florida • October 10, 2015

Submit A Film

Submissions for 2015 are closed. Stay tuned for 2016 entry dates.

Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival

Films

This independent, short film, film festival focused on entertaining the audience through thought provoking films portraying today’s culture, art, our environment, local and global issues.

DELTA DAWN
2014 Mountain Film / Duration: 17 mins
Directed by: Pete McBride
Many people have taken river trips down the Colorado River, but few know the final miles of the river like Pete McBride. In the spring of 2014, U.S. authorities released a "pulse" of water that temporarily brought the river back into Mexico and of course, the inveterate McBride followed the water to its end, this time on a standup paddleboard. On this strenuous SUP expedition, he finds ecosystems returning to life and people partying along the shore because, as McBride puts it, “It’s been a long time since the river kissed the sea.”

LIVING TINY
2011 Mountain Film / Duration: 7 mins
Directed by: Paul Donatelli, Paul Meyers
There is a small, but growing, population of people who are rejecting the axiom that “bigger is better” and are downsizing. Their tiny abodes, no larger than 200 square feet, are not caging them, but liberating them from a culture of consumption. “Ultimately you can only occupy 12 square feet of space at a time. Everything else is just a place to keep your stuff.”

VIEW FROM A PEDAL BUGGY
2015 Mountain Film / Duration: 10 mins
Directed by: Zach Voss
“My name is Gregory Allen, and I make tricycles.” Allen, the creative mind behind a small fleet of pedal buggies, is at once a man who drastically undersells himself and also someone who is under-appreciated by an American society more enamored with large personal vehicles than the effectiveness and efficiency of a human-powered pedal buggy. Undeterred, Allen constructs quaint and quirky carts that can squeeze onto sidewalks and carry the whole family, bucking trends of popular culture and following the beat of his own drum. The result, as depicted in the short film View from a Pedal Buggy, is an intimately crafted community of people who appreciate the small details that make life beautiful.

GLOOP
2011 Mountain Film / Duration: 4 mins
Directed by: Gaby Bastyra
“Once upon a time, a genius of science, a chemist called Leo, stumbled on a substance, a curious gloopy mess, that molded into any shape the genius cared to test.” While his marvelous gloop seemed to have unlimited uses, it also had a darker side that no one could foresee.

AMERICAN TIN TYPE
2012 Mountain Film / Duration: 4 mins
Directed by: Matt Morris
Tintype was one of the first “instant” forms of photography that allowed images to be developed quickly and inexpensively. The process was popular at fairs around the time of the Civil War, so it preceded the modern-day Instagram by over 150 years. Harry Taylor, who learned tintype as a way to keep his mind distracted during a family tragedy, says, “The perfection that you get with digital is so easy, you can’t help but take it for granted.” So he decided to go old school.

FLINT
2015 Georgia/ Duration 5 min
Directed by: Michael Hanson
A short film about the emotional connection of three people to the Flint River, one of the most biologically diverse, yet threatened, rivers in America.

NUTRIA: THE OTHER WHITE MEAT
2014 SCAD/Duration: 7 min
Directed by: Caroline Nead
This seven minute environmental documentary shines a light on the history of Nutria in Louisiana, how they are impacting the environment, and what some folks have done to eradicate the problem.

BENEATH PARADISE
2015 SCAD/ Duration: 12 min
Directed by: Darlien Morales
The island of Culebra, located off the coast of Puerto Rico, is one of the richest ecosystems in the Caribbean. Abundant mangroves, coral reefs and world renowned beaches, like Flamenco Beach, attract tourists from all over. Today, active munitions pose a threat to people, wildlife, and the environment. Activists, fishermen, professors, and military personnel aim to prevent further irreparable damage to Culebra’s coral reefs.

HELYN SPRINGS
2015 FSU/ Duration: 14 mins
Directed by: Noah Camenker
In a small town, a local spring is rumored to have magical healing powers. After discovering that his grandfather is terminally ill, Mason decides to venture to the springs to get the water to save him. He must overcome his own fears and doubts in order to learn that miracles don’t always work the way you expect.

HASHI
2015 FSU/ Duration: 9 mins
Directed by: Mana Handel
After her parents move to Japan without her, a twenty-something finds comfort in cooking Japanese food in an attempt to realize her identity.

COASTAL DUNE LAKES
2015 Florida/ Duration: 10 mins
Directed by: Elam Stoltzfus
Water, sand, and life: the three elements that make up dune lakes, water bodies found around the world. Journey with Emmy award-winning filmmaker Elam Stoltzfus on an odyssey spanning from the US to Australia as he reveals why coastal dune lakes of northwest Florida are unique and what can be done to protect them.

APALACHICOLA RIVERVIEW PROJECT
2014 Florida/ Duration 8 min
Produced by: Nic Stoltzfus, Elam Stoltzfus, and Joey Dickinson
Below the Surface, Quapaw Canoe Company, Riney Ranch and Live Oak Production Group teamed up together for a 8 day expedition on the Apalachicola River, Florida. 107 miles in kayaks, paddle board and custom canoe.

WARRIORS AT QUIET WATERS
2014 Florida/ Duration 7 min
Directed by: Marc Bowerman
(Our mission is) To provide traumatically injured U.S. servicemen and women from Iraq and Afghanistan with a high quality restorative program, utilizing the therapeutic experience of fishing on the Gulf of Mexico, and adjacent in-land waters.

 

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2015 Sponsors

Thank you to the sponsors for their support and enthusiasm.

Platinum
Lynn Morgan

Gold
Apalach Outfitters
Galloway Construction
Pam & George Mahr
Rick, Shirley, Sue & Carol Weyrich
Franklin County Tourist Development Council
Up The Creek Raw Bar
Live Oak Production Group
Tallahassee Magazine
VIE Magazine
Mary Ann Siprell
Maritherese & Pat Balthrop

Silver
Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce
Oyster Radio
Riverwood Suites
Sumner Law Offices
Oyster City Brewing Company
Tamara's Cafe

Bronze
Apalachicola Homes Realty
Artemis Gallery
Sanders & Duncan, P.A.
Shaun Donahoe
Harry Arnold/The Tin Shed
Person Places
Sometimes It's Hotter Seasoning Company
Dixie Theatre
Honey Hole Liquors
Suncoast Realty
Charming Comforts
 

Sponsorship Opportunities

This is an opportunity to sponsor a prestigious celebration that brings culture, education and enjoyment to a community while utilizing an incredible backdrop provided by nature.

Interested in becoming a sponsor for the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival? Click here to download a sponsor packet.

Make checks payable to Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival, LLC and mail to Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival, P.O. Box 817, Apalachicola, FL 32329

 

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More Background on the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival is a distinctive cultural event that has become a celebrated part of Florida’s “Forgotten Coast.” While its official website provided much of the initial information, this article draws exclusively from independent reviews, regional press coverage, and broader cultural context to present a comprehensive portrait of the festival-its history, programming, audience, cultural significance, and enduring impact.

History and Origins

Apalachicola: A Town with Deep Roots

Apalachicola, located at the mouth of the Apalachicola River in the Florida Panhandle, is a town known for its maritime heritage, natural beauty, and strong sense of community. Established in the early 19th century, it was once a major port on the Gulf of Mexico, and its historic downtown-with restored 19th-century architecture-serves as a scenic setting for community events and festivals.

Birth of the Film Festival

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival emerged in the early 2010s, quickly establishing itself as a highlight of the local cultural calendar. The festival is held outdoors along the river’s edge in historic downtown Apalachicola, typically at Riverfront Park. Its open-air format, often under the stars and sometimes beneath a full moon, creates a memorable and uniquely Floridian atmosphere that distinguishes it from more conventional, indoor film festivals.

Festival Format and Programming

Curated Film Selection

The festival is known for its eclectic programming, offering a mix of independent short films, documentaries, student projects, and works by local filmmakers. It has featured films from across the United States and has included participation from prestigious film schools such as Florida State University and the Savannah College of Art and Design. The selections often address contemporary issues, environmental themes, and stories rooted in the region, resonating with both local and visiting audiences.

Community Collaboration

The festival has developed partnerships with organizations and other festivals, such as the Telluride Mountain Film Festival, to bring acclaimed films to Apalachicola. Collaboration with local businesses, artists, and the Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce strengthens its community ties and supports the area’s creative economy.

A Unique Outdoor Experience

Unlike many film festivals that take place in theaters, this event encourages attendees to bring lawn chairs and blankets, fostering a relaxed, communal viewing experience. Local food, wine, and beverages are often available, making the festival as much a social gathering as a cinematic one.

Audience and Community Impact

Who Attends?

The festival draws a diverse audience, including local residents, film enthusiasts, tourists, and members of the regional creative community. Its accessible, family-friendly format and affordable ticket prices make it welcoming to people of all ages. The event is often timed to coincide with other local festivities, further boosting attendance and contributing to the town’s lively atmosphere during festival weekends.

Cultural and Social Significance

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival acts as a cultural bridge, bringing together people from varied backgrounds to celebrate storytelling, art, and the environment. Its focus on regional and environmental themes reflects the community’s deep connection to the river and surrounding landscape. The festival also provides a platform for local filmmakers and students, fostering creative expression and nurturing the next generation of storytellers.

Economic and Community Benefits

Events like the film festival are vital to sustaining Apalachicola’s economy, particularly as the town recovers from challenges such as natural disasters and the decline of traditional industries like oystering. By attracting visitors, supporting local businesses, and promoting the area’s unique character, the festival contributes to both economic development and community pride.

Reviews and Reception

Media Coverage and Public Response

Although not as widely known as major metropolitan festivals, the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival has received positive attention in regional media and travel guides. It is often highlighted as a must-attend event in Apalachicola, praised for its intimate setting, high-quality programming, and contribution to the town’s cultural life.

Travel writers and bloggers frequently mention the festival in guides to Apalachicola, noting its role in showcasing independent films and creating memorable experiences for attendees. The combination of film, food, and the scenic riverfront setting is often cited as a key reason to visit the area during the festival.

Community Testimonials

Feedback from attendees emphasizes the festival’s welcoming atmosphere and the sense of community it fosters. Many appreciate the opportunity to engage with filmmakers, discuss important issues, and enjoy the outdoors in a relaxed, festive environment. The festival’s commitment to local talent and environmental themes resonates strongly with the community’s values.

Notable Films, Guests, and Highlights

Film Selections and Themes

The festival’s programming has included a wide range of genres and subjects, from environmental documentaries to comedies, dramas, animation, and music videos. Notable selections have addressed topics such as water rights, conservation, and the unique culture of the Apalachicola region.

Special Guests

The festival has hosted filmmakers, authors, and industry professionals, providing opportunities for attendees to interact with creators and gain insights into the filmmaking process. Special guests often participate in Q&A sessions, workshops, or panel discussions, enriching the festival experience.

Examples of Featured Films

• Who Owns Water: A documentary exploring the struggles over water rights in the Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint river system, highlighting the environmental and economic challenges facing the region.

• Coastal Dune Lakes: An award-winning documentary examining the unique ecosystems of Northwest Florida, produced by local filmmakers and screened as part of the festival’s commitment to regional storytelling.

Press and Media Coverage

Regional Recognition

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival has been featured in local and regional publications, including travel magazines, community websites, and tourism guides. These sources often emphasize the festival’s role in promoting Apalachicola as a destination for arts and culture, as well as its contribution to the town’s reputation as a hub for creative events.

Integration with Local Events

The festival is frequently included in lists of annual events and activities in Apalachicola, alongside other major celebrations such as the Florida Seafood Festival and the Forgotten Coast Plein Air Paint-Out. This integration with the town’s broader cultural calendar enhances its visibility and appeal to both residents and visitors.

Cultural and Social Significance

A Celebration of Place and Storytelling

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival is more than just a showcase for independent films; it is a celebration of the town’s unique identity and its relationship with the river and surrounding environment. The festival’s emphasis on environmental themes and local stories reflects the community’s ongoing efforts to protect its natural resources and preserve its heritage.

Supporting Local Arts and Education

By partnering with film schools and supporting student filmmakers, the festival plays a role in arts education and professional development. It provides a platform for emerging talent and encourages young people to engage with the arts, both as creators and as audience members.

Strengthening Community Bonds

The festival’s communal format, with attendees gathering outdoors to share food, conversation, and film, reinforces the sense of connection that defines Apalachicola. It serves as a reminder of the power of the arts to bring people together, spark dialogue, and inspire action on issues that matter to the community.

Details, Insights, and Specifics

Festival Organization and Sponsorship

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival is organized with the support of local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers. The Apalachicola Bay Chamber of Commerce is a key partner, helping to promote the event and facilitate its integration with other community initiatives. Sponsorship opportunities are available for businesses and individuals, providing financial support and helping to ensure the festival’s sustainability.

Event Logistics

• Location: Riverfront Park, downtown Apalachicola

• Format: Outdoor screenings, typically in the evening

• Amenities: Food and beverage tents, seating areas, VIP sections, and accessible facilities

• Tickets: Affordable pricing, with advance purchase and at-the-door options

Annual Timing

The festival is usually held in the fall, often in October, taking advantage of the region’s mild weather and aligning with other local events to maximize attendance and community engagement.

Examples and Anecdotes

A Visitor’s Perspective

Travelers often recount the festival as a highlight of their visit to Apalachicola, praising the combination of film, food, and waterfront ambiance. The event’s relaxed pace and welcoming atmosphere are frequently cited as reasons for its enduring popularity.

Local Involvement

Local filmmakers and artists are integral to the festival’s success, contributing works that reflect the community’s values and experiences. The festival’s commitment to showcasing regional talent helps to nurture a thriving creative scene in Apalachicola.

Challenges and Opportunities

Sustaining Momentum

Like many small-town festivals, the Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival faces challenges related to funding, volunteer support, and competition from larger events. However, its unique format, strong community backing, and alignment with local values position it for continued growth and success.

Expanding Reach

There is potential for the festival to expand its reach through partnerships with other festivals, increased media coverage, and enhanced marketing efforts. By leveraging the town’s reputation as a cultural destination, the festival can attract new audiences and further establish itself as a regional highlight.

 

The Apalachicola Riverfront Film Festival stands as a testament to the power of community, creativity, and the arts. Set against the stunning backdrop of the Apalachicola River, it offers a unique blend of independent film, local culture, and environmental consciousness. Through its diverse programming, community engagement, and celebration of place, the festival enriches the cultural life of Apalachicola and contributes to the town’s ongoing story as a center for arts and heritage on Florida’s Forgotten Coast.

 

 

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