Washington to host film festival this weekend

WASHINGTON — Around 40 independent films from all over the world will see screen time at various venues in Washington this weekend, during the first annual Farm to Film Festival.

The event will kick off with a presentation from local film historian Michael Zahs at the State Theater at 10 a.m. Saturday. After that, the public library, Art Domestique, Dodici’s shop and the Washington City Council Chambers will host screenings of the films in scheduled blocks.

Farm to Film Co-Chair Sarah Grunewaldt said it was customary to pop in and out of screenings, with viewers meandering between venues according to their own tastes.

“There’s no tickets or anything like that, you just wander around as you see fit,” she said. “I think getting to as many as you can is going to help give a broad spectrum ... it’s one of those opportunities that we’ve never had here in Washington, and if people can give it a chance — even if they can only come for an hour and see a few films — it’d be worth the time.”

Organizers have asked attendees to register, either at the Blair House or outside of venues showing the films. Doing so is not required, but will allow the group to seek out feedback and make improvements for future years.

In addition to the film screenings, a filmmaker reception will be held at the library at 7 p.m. Saturday, where people who submitted content will mingle, network, and answer questions from the general public.

The festival is the first of its kind in Washington. Grunewaldt said that made it exciting, if a little intimidating.

“Any new event is always kind of scary and nerve-wracking, right before the event starts,” she said. “We’ve got a good check list going and it sounds like everything is in order, and organized, and ready to go.”

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com