Rome International Film Festival

by MovieMaker Staff | Published March 12, 2007

The Rome International Film Festival of Rome, Georgia is more than a high-stakes game of “Beat You to the Distribution Deal!” Instead, RIFF looks to put moviemakers in touch with audiences who respond to the great art of film.

According to RIFF marketing director Allen Bell, as movie theater chains aim to make a profit, they often ignore the fact that audiences want to be enlightened. “Being a film festival, RIFF attracts films that encourage a dialogue about major issues in the world today, as well as neglected issues around the globe,” says Bell. To those films flock a bevy of substance-hungry moviegoers.

It would seem ironic that the small southern city of Rome attracts an international crowd each year--until you factor in its proximity to Atlanta’s ports, its four local colleges and that factor that Bell calls “walkability.” All RIFF’s venues, including the famous DeSoto Theatre and the Rome Forum, “are located in historic downtown Rome, within walking distance of hotels, restaurants and special events.” (The town’s reputation for unbounded hospitality should also be noted here.) “Basically, RIFF’s primary goal is to connect filmmakers with audiences through the medium of film,” says Bell. Exposing the world to the other “Rome” is just a highlight.

Sound Off: According to Allen Bell, “RIFF contributes to the world by giving a voice to filmmakers who are looking for an audience that wants to know more about the struggles around the globe.” As a film-goer, is this something you are interested in seeing? What is the best account of real-life events depicted on screen?

For more information, visit http://www.riff.tv.

--Mallory Potosky