The Mesa International Film Festival is returning to downtown Mesa for its fourth year Oct. 26-29. Throughout the weekend, filmmakers and attendees will gather for film screenings, specialty presentations by guest speakers and networking events.
“This event welcomes filmmakers around the world to celebrate in downtown Mesa,” said Troy Kotsur, Oscar winner and Mesa native, who returns to present a special screening of To My Father. “The festival creates an environment to socialize and enjoy a variety of films – there’s truly something here for everyone.”
On Thursday, Oct. 26, the Mesa International Film Festival will kick off with a VIP party to welcome attendees. The event will take place at Mesa Delta Hotel from 7 to 10 p.m. The festival will continue throughout the weekend with more than 150 screenings of films from across the globe and specialty presentations by guest speakers at ASU’s MIX Center.
On Friday, Oct. 27, there will be a screening of Barbie, followed by Arizona State alumni and assistant editor of the film, Nick Ramirez, discussing his experience while working on set.
This year, the festival is partnering with Mesa Parks to host an outdoor screening of Monsters Inc. at Mesa City Center on Saturday, Oct. 28. Valley residents are encouraged to arrive early and bring blankets for the viewing. Additionally, the festival will culminate with an awards brunch on Sunday, Oct. 29.
“We’re thrilled to welcome filmmakers and movie fanatics from around the world to take part in this unforgettable event,” said Nancy Hormann, president of the Downtown Mesa Association. “Valley residents are invited to join us and partake in all of the festivities.”
Filmmaker networking events will go on throughout the weekend at local businesses in downtown Mesa, including Chupacabra Taproom, 12 West, Organic Bean Company and Jarrod’s Coffee, Tea and Gallery. Tickets and/or badges are required to attend the festival and can be purchased online or at the event’s on-site box office. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit mesainternationalfilmfestival.
