Routes to Roots Film Festival changes direction this year and partners with The Strand’s TIFF Film Series, supports local filmmakers and giving back to the community
Due to COVID-19 and current restrictions, it wasn’t feasible to run the Routes to Roots Film Festival as in past years, so organizers decided to make some changes to this year’s festival by focusing on filmmakers with a connection to Norfolk County, partnering with the TIFF Film Series monthly screening at The Strand, and collecting non-perishable food items for Simcoe Caring Cupboard and Riversyde83.
“We are pleased that we’re able to move forward with this year’s festival, even in a modified capacity,” says Jim Carroll, Chair Routes to Roots Film Festival committee. “Norfolk County has been supportive of the festival since its inception 4 years ago. This year, we’re focusing where we think the need is strongest and concentrating on promoting local artists and helping those in our community affected by food insecurity.”
Over the next few months, R2RFF has partnered with the TIFF Film Series and will present short films and filmmaker Q&A sessions at select screenings. There will be no additional charge for this content, however moviegoers are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items or cash donations to local food banks.
Coming up on Sunday, November 15th, Jesse Senko, a filmmaker from Waterford, will present his short film Bookworm prior to the screening of Hope Gap. Starring Annette Bening, Bill Nighy and Josh O’Connor, Hope Gap follows a couple’s visit with their son which takes a dramatic turn when the father announces his plans to leave the marriage. Written and directed by William Nicholson.
Sunday, November 15th
Screenings at 4pm and 4:30pm are SOLD OUT
An additional screening at 7pm has been added
Short Film BOOKWORM
Q&A Session with Jesse Senko
TIFF Feature Film HOPE GAP
Seating is limited and must be pre-registered in advance. All must obey social distancing rules and restrictions while inside the theatre. Masks must be worn at all times except when seated, eating and drinking. Cash only (ATM available). For tickets and more information contact Jim Carroll jimc@kwic.com
The Routes to Roots Film Festival (R2RFF) is a showcase of local, national, and international film with an emphasis on themes of returning to roots, rural life, and connectedness. It exists to engage audiences with award-winning, thought-provoking storytelling that may be unavailable elsewhere, encourage new and emerging filmmakers and celebrate Norfolk County as a place to visit, live and work. Visit r2rff.com for more info.
The TIFF Film Series showcases films featured at the Toronto International Film Festival. The Strand Movie Theatre is located at 55 Robinson Street in Simcoe, Ontario. Visit strandtheatre.ca for updates on movie releases.