Lights, camera, action! The Blackbird Film + Arts Festival is back, live and in-person, Thursday, May 19 through Sunday, May 22 at SUNY Cortland and throughout downtown Cortland.
This year's event will feature amazing independent short films from around the world, as well as music video party, a paint & sip, free film screenings, workshops and more!
Keep reading for everything you need to know before enjoying an evening of cinema under the stars!
WHAT IS BLACKBIRD FILM + ARTS FESTIVAL?
Found in 2015, the Blackbird Film + Arts Festival celebrates and supports independent filmmakers from around the world, striving to curate an inclusive festival atmosphere where experienced professionals and first-time filmmakers can strike up conversations and perhaps take something away from one another.
WHERE IS THE EVENT?
The film screenings will take place at 22 Graham Avenue, Cortland, NY.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Movie screenings are FREE to the public! Select activities may require a fee to participate.
TELL ME ABOUT THE FILMS
Over the course of four days, Blackbird will be screening over 130 films from around the world in 13 thematic screening blocks. Blackbird will bring you films spanning every genre, from apocalyptic to romance, action, and horror. This year's selection features 71 films by women writers/directors, 32 films by BIPOC writers/directors, and 30 films by LGBTQ+ writers/directors.
WHAT ELSE IS THERE TO DO?
Along with film screenings, the event will encompass:
Blackbird Pain & Sip The Blackbird Film Festival hosts a guided painting class for Filmmakers and VIP guests! Enjoy a glass of wine or beer while creating a unique film-themed piece of art! All supplies included.
BRU64 Music Video Party For the first time ever, Blackbird is hosting a Music Video Screening Party at BRU64 on Main St in Cortland! This Party / Screening combo will be featuring over 30 films with original music!
Indy Film Workshop So, you made a short film! Now what? Blackbird and the NYWIFT come together to host a panel discussion focused on leveraging the short film into something more.
Who's ready for a fun weekend getaway?! Whether you're visiting from out of town or looking to treat yourself to a staycation, there are a variety of hotels open in Cortland County. If you're looking for the closest stay to the film screenings, stay at Greek Peak Mountain Resort's Hope Lake Lodge. Along with their affordable lodging options, they offer an indoor waterpark with heated pools, a mountain coaster, and a zipline course.
If you'd rather stay closer to downtown Cortland, Best Western Finger Lake Plus, Clarion Inn & Suites, Fairfield by Marriot Inn & Suites, and Hampton Inn are all a quick drive from bustling Main Street. Check out the full list of county accommodations here.
MORE INFORMATION
Plan on attending Blackbird Film Festival? Share your pictures with us for a chance to be featured! Tag @experiencecortland and use hashtag #experiencecortland.