As a general rule of thumb, anything that has the word “fantastic” in its title has our attention. It takes something like Fantastic Cinema, however, to keep it.
Presented by the Film Society of Little Rock, the fest launched in 2015, dedicated to featuring genre films (think action, sci-fi and thriller), including those that are difficult to fit into a categorical box. Last year’s Grand Jury Award for Best Feature Film went to “The Man in the Orange Jacket,” a psychological thriller billed as the first-ever horror movie from Latvia.
“These are films that audiences may not get a chance to see anywhere else,” said Sarah Jones, Fantastic Cinema’s Director of Public Relations. “By offering a selection of genre films from scifi and fantasy to horror, we’re confident that there will be something for everyone.”
The 2016 event brings something new to the table: beer. Now called the Fantastic Cinema & Craft Beer Festival, guests can expect some of the best craft beer in the state of Arkansas—including Lost Forty, Diamond Bear, Rebel Kettle and Flyway—to go along with the film screenings.
“Last year we, Lost Forty Brewing was one of our sponsors and their growlers were something that everyone raved about,” Jones said. “We’re expanding on that concept and introducing the Fantastic Cinema Craft Beer Garden. We’re excited for the opportunity to showcase the amazing brews that Arkansas has to offer.”
Fantastic Cinema is slated for March 31 – April 3 of 2016, so go ahead and mark your calendars now. Learn more about the fest by clicking here, and stay updated by following along on Facebook and Twitter.