The DRIFF 2023 Experience: A Review
As I took my first step into Biltmore Theatre, ready for the first day of the festival, I felt overwhelmed by a number of sensations. The theatre’s high vaulted ceiling was dimly lit, allowing colored lights to shine in the darkness, highlighting the seating area and stage. It was bustling with people, film enthusiasts just like me, all in one room. The excitement was palpable, with volunteers running around to help set up, cameras held high, and chairs lined up in neat rows.
My sister and I climbed upstairs to the balcony, a cozy set up with sofas and highchairs. There was a bar at the back, the Gala VIP's could enjoy a free drink. A table was lined with small, delicious treats, some of which I couldn’t even recognize. Still, I couldn’t resist trying out everything on the table, and even going for seconds.
The introductions started off the first day of the festival, and the first film came onto the screen. Immediately, I was intrigued by the animated characters as the short film Primitive Times explored modern problems in a society of primitive humans. The concept was shown through a series of interviews, and as the story unfolded, it was shocking how many scenes seemed familiar to me—emotions and moments that I had been through in my own life.
The second film was a long feature with the name of Suze, which I came to understand was the mother’s name in the story. It followed her as her only daughter leaves for college, and she gets stuck taking care of her daughter’s heartbroken ex-boyfriend who she can’t even stand. I was so shocked when I saw that the daughter’s character was played by famous actor Sara Waisglass, who was also in one of my favorite TV shows Ginny and Georgia. The biggest surprise of all was when some of the actors and the movie producers came onto stage after the screening ended, answering questions and allowing the audience to experience what it was like to create such a great film.
As the closing remarks of the event were spoken, the audience got a chance to mingle with the actors, producers and festival organizers. The night ended with a buzzing and enthusiastic crowd. As everyone trickled out of the theatre, they sported exciting grins, ready for another day at the festival tomorrow. I wanted to personally thank everyone at DRIFF who helped create such a magical night for everyone!
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Amna Alvi is a business student at the University of Toronto with a passion for literature, writing, and all things film.
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Want to become part of a local film community or attend a film festival near you? The Durham Region International Film Festival’s events include an annual fall film festival in Durham Region, summer drive-in movie screenings in Whitby and DRIFF in a Jiff short film screenings in Oshawa. Visit driff.ca, become a DRIFF insider or follow us on social media at @catchthedriff for all the details.