RIFF 2010 has officially closed. The banners are down, weary staff and filmmakers have all gone home…..but it was a great festival. Each year seems to get better and RIFF 2010 was a lot of fun. Throughout the hectic weekend I tried to catch up with festival Director Paul Lewis. A very busy man indeed, it seems fitting that his remarks close the weekend Seen & Heard column. 

TINA:  Fans seemed very pleased as they left the Awards Ceremony last night. There was a lot of positive feedback on the festival. You must be proud as RIFF is a brainchild of the Athenaeum, one of many in fact, but is now in its third year. Tell us how it began and the progression you have seen.

PAUL: I guess it began with a love for film and independent film in particular. When the Athenaeum was looking to invest in a new cultural event downtown, we discussed a film festival idea with Ryan and Ian who had long wanted to do the same thing. Then we all jumped in, feet first. Three years later, here we are.

TINA: What is the best part of the festival for you?

PAUL:  Finally watching the community come through the doors, sit in their seats, and give themselves over to the experience. From that point on it’s the stories and the films that matter.

TINA: If folks want to become more involved – what should they do?

PAUL: Speak up! When they see or hear about this festival or if they like what they are experiencing and want it to continue, say so, and join us. There are many ways to help, from giving money, to volunteering to participating in the event itself. Let us know what we can do better and help us get there.

~Peace,

Tina

Tina.morris @ rifilmfestival (dot) com