It’s Film Festival season in Victoria!

Nineteenth-century Parisian brothels, desert pilgrimages through Mexico, the antics and attitudes of Theo Fleury, turbulent politics during Iran’s 2009 election, B.C.’s ancient rainforests and brain-infected zombies: that’s just a short list of things you’ll find on big screens in Victoria during the 2012 Victoria International Film Festival (VFF). This world-renowned festival has gathered the best independent films from all over the world for you to enjoy during the first week of February.  So what are you waiting for? Plan a trip, buy a pass, and enjoy a week full of provocative film.

This year’s Opening Gala Film is House of Pleasures, a captivating snapshot of Parisian grandes maisons during the turn of the century. The Canadian Opening Gala Film, A Little Bit Zombie, is a quirky zombie film featuring an unsuspecting groom who suddenly contracts a brain-infecting virus. And those are just the opening films! To see the complete program of films that will fill the following eight days, click here.

A Film Festival pass will gain you access to an unlimited amount of films, as well as special reserve seating at the theatre. A film pass is the most economical way to enjoy the festival if you’re hoping to catch a lot of films. But it’s easy to see only one or two shows if you happen to be in town. Simply purchase a film festival membership (only $2) and the tickets to the shows you’d like to see. Most tickets are available at the theatre, but be quick—some shows sell out! Get individual tickets ahead of time at the VFF booth in the Bay Centre downtown or purchase them online.

While you’re at it, why not head to a great VFF event? The Opening Gala event offers drinks, food, and dancing after the showing of House of Pleasures, and you can taste wine and great food after a show at the Sips ‘n’ Cinema event. Free events include the Cinema Swiss exhibit of Swiss designed posters and the ongoing great music, drinks and ambience at Empire Theatres Lounge at The Office.

To find out more about VFF showings, tickets, or events, visit their homepage!

See you at the show!

Posted January 20, 2012 by Kara Johancsik