GH Film Festival a special event

IF YOU’RE planning to attend the second annual Gig Harbor Film Festival this weekend, don’t expect to see to your average big-budget productions. Don’t expect high-tech explosions and grand themes. Don’t expect the ordinary.

Do expect different, thoughtful films that may dig deep into the depths of the human psyche and social problems. Do expect films about ordinary, everyday people who may be dealing with extraordinary situations. Do expect to see new faces and phenomenal acting outside of your run-of-the-mill performers. Do expect foreign films that stray beyond the usual American world view. Do expect movies made straight from the hearts of the filmmakers who want to spotlight issues they find important. Filmmakers who could very well be sitting in the audience with you.

A film festival offers moviegoers a chance to step out of the mundane and view a world experience through the lens of unknown filmmakers who capture life in their own unique way. Many will be on hand at the Galaxy Theatres, mingling with the crowd or hanging out in one of the “back lot” trailers. People will be able to walk up to them, shake their hands and ask about their films. How often do you get to do that with Hollywood filmmakers?

Many of the films are short — about 15 minutes — while others are feature length. This year, the festival will offer a “Kids Fest” that will feature family-friendly films. For those longing for the good ol’ days, some classics like “Sorry Wrong Number” will hit the screen again. For an extra-special treat, silent films will bring back a bygone era, complete with live organ music.

For a complete list of movies, times and a brief synopsis of each film, see the Gig Harbor Film Festival special section in this week’s issue of The Peninsula Gateway.