Filmmakers from around the world gather in Boulder each year for a four-day film fest of epic proportions. Boulder cinefiles can delight in feature-length films, happy hours, opening night galas, live local music and talks led by industry professionals. Here are some of our favorite events at BIFF, between March 2-5.
Opening Night
Kick off this treasured film fest during its opening night gala. A screening of The Immediate Family looks at a session band that changed the course of 70’s music history. Dive into this famous session band who finished “Werewolves of London” in one day and worked with Bonnie Raitt, Warren Zevon, Stevie Nicks, and more to elevate simple and beautiful songs into iconic, internationally recognized hits. Arrive early for pre-party cocktails, meet other film fanatics, then stay for an interview with director Danny Tedesco.
Feature-Length Films
Want to catch screenings of Boulder International Film Festival’s feature length movies? Sign up for “Tell-Me-When” and receive text notifications for the release of tickets to the following four films.
Chevalier
Chevalier is based on a true story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. Bologne was the son of an African slave and a French plantation owner who rose to fame unexpectedly as a violinist, composer and fencer. This film examines his life and how one fated love affair and a fight with Marie Antoinette shaped his final fate.
The Thief Collector
One of the world’s most valuable paintings, “Woman-Ochre”, disappeared in 1985 from the University of Arizona Museum of Art. Decades later, the painting was discovered hanging behind the bedroom door of Jerry and Rita Alter – retired school teachers in rural New Mexico. The Thief Collector explores what is considered one of the greatest art heists in history, and the duo behind it.
Desperate Souls, Dark City and the Legend of Midnight Cowboy
This film highlights the masterpiece of Midnight Cowboy – the first X-rated film to ever win an Oscar. It studies the interesting and talented people who created this legendary film and the 60’s social and political landscapes that influenced them. Through interviews, archived material and retrospective reflections, director Nancy Buirski unpacks how one movie expertly encapsulated time, place and sentiments of one of our country’s most influential eras.
The Lost King
Two-time Oscar nominee Stephen Frears showcases the true story of amateaur historian Phillippa Langley and her discovery of the lost burial site of King Richard III. Meeting skepticism from academics and professional historians, archaeologists and anthropologists, Langley perseveres with a dogged determination to get Britain’s most renowned scholars to take this find seriously. Get inspired by her story in The Lost King.
Live Music
In addition to fabulous cinema, Boulder International Film Festival offers a platform for talented local musicians and music lovers. A collection of singer-songwriters from Boulder and the surrounding area will take the stage, playing some of their best work in an intimate setting.
Stick around during the first weekend in March to enjoy at least one of Boulder International Film Festival’s events. The spirit along Pearl Street is lively, bars are packed and our city buzzes in celebration of creativity, art and the innate human desire to pursue passion.