Belgrave Cinema is once again rolling out the red carpet as Armidale’s much-loved International Film Festival returns for its 17th season.
Known for its diverse and carefully curated program, the festival will run over two weeks this August, bringing a world of storytelling to the local screen. This celebrated event has a strong tradition in the region, and organisers are proud to continue what has become a standout feature of Armidale’s cultural calendar.
CEO and Managing Director of Regional Cinemas Australia, Kieren Dell, said “There is a long tradition of this very successful festival in Armidale, which we have been more than happy to continue.”
“In selecting the films, our team research a range of international films that have released in the last year or are about to release, we talk to our staff and get their feedback, and we design a list that balances drama, comedy and other genres, as well as countries of origin, to come up with a diverse list of films that provide something for everyone.”
Mr Dell also said that this year they’re changing the format somewhat to make the festival more accessible and offer more opportunities for the community to come down and see multiple films.
“In the past, the Festival was run with 9 films and a single showing of each over a single weekend. We have restructured the Festival this year to run over a 2-week period, with 3 screenings of each of the 9 films.”
Opening night festivities will take place on Thursday 14 August, ahead of the screening of The Golden Spurtle at 6:45pm.
“There is an opening night event on Thursday 14 August before the screening of The Golden Spurtle at 6:45pm. The Golden Spurtle is a charming documentary about the World Porridge Championships in a Scottish Highland village,” said Mr Dell.
While there are no bundled ticket packages available, the festival is offering excellent value for its loyal Movie Club members.
“There aren’t any package deals for multiple screenings, but members of our Movie Club can purchase tickets to general sessions for $10.50 before 6pm or $12.50 after 6pm,” said Mr Dell.
For those new to foreign cinema or the festival itself, the team at Belgrave encourages everyone to take a chance on something a little different.
“English language movies make up a fraction of the movies made and released every year, and there are many undiscovered gems to be found,” said Mr Dell.
“The International Film Festival is a collection of the best of the best.”
The 17th Armidale International Film Festival promises a wide-ranging cinematic experience—from powerful dramas to light-hearted comedies and compelling documentaries—showcasing stories from across the globe, right in the heart of the New England.
Tickets are available now from https://belgravecinema.com.au/
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