Film Festival of the Week: Cucalorus

What’s in a name? At the Cucalorus Film Festival, apparently not much. “We just think it sounds cool,” says festival director Dan Brawley of his fest’s unusual moniker. But it’s this laidback vibe that makes Cucalorus a true festival gem for indie moviemakers.

When MM called this North Carolina festival the “best kept secret on the indie fest circuit” a few years back, we focused specifically on the caliber of films and huge growth it had achieved in just a few shorts years. But the real highlight, according to Brawley, “is what happens off the screen. When you gather filmmakers together and toss in a limitless supply of spirits, strange things happen.”

Now moving into its 13th year, the secret it out, mostly due to the always innovative and controversial movie selection on display each year. Want to get in on it while you can? Hang out with past participants David Gordon Green, Gus Van Sant and John Cameron Mitchell? Or check out some “penetrating films, cold Tuaca and a little raw meat?” Visit www.cucalorus.org for more details.

Sound Off: The Cucalorus Film Festival attracts some of the world’s most innovative indie talents to the bewitching arts town of Wilmington, North Carolina. What factors do you look for when entering or attending a film festival? Let us know in the Comments section!

–Mallory Potosky