Now in its 37th annual season, the Virginia Film Festival (VAFF) is set to bring in a large turnout in 2024, spanning over five exciting days right here in Charlottesville. From October 30 to November 3, there will be upwards of 100 films showcased, providing an expansive program where you are sure to find something to your liking. In fact, with a selection so vast and diverse, avid viewers may have to carefully plan out their watch schedule to ensure that they don’t miss anything.
As demonstrated by the turnout last year, the Virginia Film Festival is no small feat. Last year, VAFF recorded over 19,000 attendees, with people making extensive travel plans just for it. The rare experience of picking from so many films to watch in close proximity to each other has proven to be a successful allure for many.
Among the list of offerings is the highly-regarded film Anora which was released earlier this year. Anora tells the story of a New York City-based sex worker who experiences an intense romantic relationship. The movie received a 98% rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a superb overall review rate. This enrapturing film will be shown on Wednesday, October 10 at 7:00 PM at the esteemed Paramount Theater in the Downtown Mall. Another film not to miss would be the 2024 The Count of Monte Cristo which also received positive feedback. Based on Alexandre Dumas’ beloved classic novel, The Count of Monte Cristo has garnered several prestigious accolades, including being nominated for an Academy Award in France. It will be shown on Sunday, November 3 at 6:00 PM at the Violet Crown Cinema.
While there are some big-ticket showcasings such as Anora and The Count of Monte Cristo, VAFF also provides a once-a-year opportunity to view up-and-coming films. There are unique movies such as shorts and documentaries due to VAFF’s commitment to providing a platform for local and emerging filmmakers to receive public attention and for their voices to be heard.
That is not the only positive outcome of the festival, however: besides the movies, there have been some famous guests among the attendees, so there is always the chance of seeing someone noteworthy. One such way to meet new people is the Opening Gala held at 9:30 PM on October 30, kicking off the festival on a fun note. There will be catering, live music, and lots of socialization. Similarly, the Late Night Wrap Party is scheduled for 9:30 PM as well to celebrate the previous night. These two events are the perfect occasion to engage in the arts community and people passionate about movies.
Attendees can order their tickets by calling the box office or purchase them in person at the various box office locations, so those interested have options at their convenience. You can stop by the UVA Arts Box Office at 109 Culbreth Road, the Downtown Box Office on 200 W Main Street, or at the Paramount Theater. Tickets are on sale now for a price of $15 per person. However, did you know that UVA students get a free ticket for each day of the Virginia Film Festival? Every single student is eligible for one free ticket per show, provided that the ticket is booked online at least 24 hours prior. If this is news to you, take full advantage of this perk and check out one of the showings right in the heart of Charlottesville.
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