The Tribune

IT’S lights, camera, action for the Bahamas International Film Festival which starts today.

‘Quartet,’ a British comedy-drama directed by Hollywood icon Dustin Hoffman, opens the ninth international festival, which runs until Sunday.

Films will be shown at Galleria JFK, the Sheraton and, for the opening and closing night films, the Atlantis Theatre.

Filmmakers

More than 65 filmmakers and industry guests are scheduled to attend the festival, which is showcasing more than 70 films from over 30 countries.

Highlights include the BIFF Shining Star tribute - which this year will be presented to Sydney Poitier, daughter of Sir Sidney, on Saturday.

Many of those involved in making the films will be available for questions after the film showings - a chance to find out all about the movie.

Films are being shown from 11am to 11pm, at just $3 a movie at JFK Galleria and at the Sheraton Hotel’s Lucayan Room (showing films previously scheduled for Galleria 6).

Experts are delivering masterclasses in the art of film directing and acting and there are top name panel discussions on ‘the art of collaboration,’ and ‘digital filmmaking.’

Box office, panel discussions, masterclasses and the festival lounge are at the Coldwell Banker/Lightbourn Realty BIFF Lounge, opposite McDonald’s in the city centre.

Filmmakers, sponsors, pass holders and festival guests will be at the lounge in between screenings and BIFF events.

After Nassau, the festival travels to Eleuthera for ‘The Best of the Fest Eleuthera.’

During its visit to Harbour Island and Governor’s Harbour between December 10 and 14, a full programme of films and festivities is on offer including an opening night film and reception at Coral Sands Resort, daily film screening at Seagrapes, Harbour Island and the Globe Princess Theater in Governor’s Harbour and a closing night film and party at Tippy’s.

‘Quartet’ is due to show at 6.30pm tonight, with Australian comedy ‘The Sapphires’ closing the festival at 6.30pm on Sunday.

Pop into the box office to find out all about the festival and buy tickets, or get information at www.bintlfilmfest.com.