The Nantucket Film Festival is in its 17th year in 2012 and there is certainly a lot of buzz flying around Nantucket and off island. Having become a staple of the summer calendar, the film festival, dubbed NFF for short is a highlight for the WhatsUpTucket team and we’re excited to be included on the press package of the event festival.
We recently had a chance for an interview with Mystelle Brabee (art director ) and Colin Stanfield (executive director) the directors of the Festival and they had some insightful thoughts and comments on why this Festival is set to be even greater then before.
WUT: How does the Film Festival take shape every year?
NFF: Our beginning really starts at Sundance, in Park City, Utah and we have so many films go past our eyes and so many emotions. In a 48 hour period we have to pick 10 strong films and it’s a hard job, but we wouldn’t change it for the world. Curating our list has become an experience in it’s own.
WUT: What gets you the most excited about the Film Festival?
NFF: To be candid. Relief it’s going to happen. This event is in so many ways a risk, and with every year that we realize it’s going to take place, we just have to laugh and embrace all of the work we’ve put towards it. It’s a leap of faith at times and certainly a series of persistent pursuits.
WUT: What Films this year Excite You? Why?
NFF: For the younger set, there is definitely a movie that you have to see. It’s intriguing and we came across the film at Sundance.
Beasts of the Southern Wild has been produced by a young 26 year old team of directors and writers. It’s an eye opening experiential film and something that you will not want to miss out on.
WUT: What is your fondest memory of the “All Star Comedy Round Table”?
NFF: One of the highlights has to be Zach Galifinackas. Brian Williams, the acclaimed interviewer, had Zach on stage and began to ask him questions. Zach, looked over at him with a steel face and threw his water bottle off the stage. Then another, and another. It was a classic Galifinackas moment.
Another fun time was when Andy Sandberg came out on stage and immediately removed his shirt. You can’t schedule things like that.
WUT: How excited are you that the Dreamland theatre is ready and a part of the Festival?
NFF: It’s been an amazing transformation of the space. We had an initial walk through a few weeks ago and you can already imagine it completely filled with patrons and some of the films we curated being shown. It’s an exciting time for the Festival as well as Nantucket. We couldn’t be more appreciative of being involved with the space.
WUT: What can we expect for the Future of the Festival?
NFF: We’re excited for the launch of the Nantucket Film Institute, which will be opening up teen writing labs on Nantucket and part of our five-year mission. We strive to give back to the local community in more ways than one and look forward to the years ahead.
WUT: Ok, so we have to ask. It’s 9pm and you’re starving. Where are you going for dinner on Nantucket?
NFF: If you can make the seating, Black Eyed Susan’s is a must. For a great backup, you can find us at Corazon Del Mar. They are both amazing options.
