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Natural Awakenings Westchester / Putnam / Dutchess New York

Nearly Four Dozen Films Grace the Screens in Brewster Festival: International Films

Ryder Organic Farm, host of short films

The Village of Brewster Film Festival (VOBFF), now in its fifth year, has grown to be bigger and more diverse than ever. This year's festival will have over 45 films from over a dozen different countries, including the U.S., Australia, France, Israel, Turkey, Mexico and Spain. The six venues—from a historic church on the Hudson to the middle of a farm to a historic theater in Brewster—span the entire width of Putnam County.

The event takes place from September 1-4 over the Labor Day weekend.

“We couldn't be more proud this year of the event. To expand every year and have venues that welcome our programming is very exciting. We have a wide range of genres this year, including animated film, comedy and drama. The festival shows everything from short films to full length features," says Bob Dumont, chairman of Village of Brewster Film Festival.

The festival received a record number of submissions this year during its call for films. “I think it shows that we run a strong festival and it is challenging to get it. Those that make the cut should feel really proud of their project,” says Stacy Dumont, the co-founder of the event.

The VOBFF has many features that set it apart from other film festivals. "When you look around at film festivals, you have the really large festivals that are in multiple locations. Once you step down from those you do not have very many that have so many different locations and genres. Most festivals will be held in a single movie theater or, at best, at a second location, and are very specific," Bob Dumont continues. “The number of locations makes us much more visible and attractive.

The VOBFF begins on September 1 at Chapel Restoration in Cold Spring and ends in Brewster, New York, at Old Town Hall. On September 2, there is an annual fundraiser, Dinner and a Movie, which features the independent The Congressman. Ryder Organic Farm hosts the short film festival on September 3 from 6-10pm.

Tickets to the event can be purchased online starting August 1. The VOB Film Festival is a 501(c)3 nonprofit run by volunteers.

Film times, events and locations can be found at VOBFilmFestival.com. If volunteer for the festival, email [email protected].