We are officially three days into the ninth annual Little Rock Film Festival and we are not slowing down any time soon. With a whole week’s worth of feature films, short films, documentaries, parties and more, you’re going to want to make some room on the schedule.
Check out our Q&A with the LRFF’s new communications director Matt DeCample here.
Here’s what you can still catch this week:
Wednesday, May 13:
“Tired Moonlight,” 11:15 a.m. at Ron Robinson Theater: This documentary/fiction/”bad poetry” hybrid offers an oddly beautiful and in-depth look at director Britni West’s hometown in Montana, turning over stones and glorifying charm like no one but a native can.
“Drunk Stoned Brilliant Dead,” 5:30 p.m. at the Clinton School of Public Service: Longtime readers of the National Lampoon know it was born from the minds of three Ivy Leaguers, but everyone has felt the shift it caused in comedy, now almost synonymous with the likes of John Belushi, Bill Murray and Chevy Chase. With never before seen archival footage, this documentary features the road to becoming a cultural touchstone for humor.
“Made in Arkansas” Blow Out, 10 p.m. at South on Main: Where better to celebrate Arkansan filmmakers than at the quintessential Southern restaurant at the heart of the SoMa district? Guests will enjoy food from Chef Matt Bell, drinks from mixologist David Burnette and live music from Isaac Alexander and band.
For more on Wednesday’s events, which includes a victory lap showing of “King Jack,” click here.
Thursday, May 14
“Krisha,” 3:15 p.m. at Ron Robinson Theater: Director Trey Edward Shults tells the story of family tensions that wildly escalate over the holidays. Oy. This film took SXSW by storm this year, so buckle up and enjoy the craziness.
“7 Chinese Brothers,” 9 p.m. at Ron Robinson Theater: This comedy features Jason Schwartzman and his real-life dog Arrow. Watch as this perverbial “sad sack” tries to overcome his hurdles, get the girl and make his grandma proud. There will also be a discussion with director Bob Byington following the screening.
KABF Radio “Summer of 85” vinyl dance party, 10 p.m. at Good Food by Ferneau: We know you’re already hooked just from the title, but let us help you imagine the scene: a sea of stonewashed jeans, side ponytails to spare, food from Donnie Ferneau and Michael Shaeffer spinning some of your favorite 80s hits. No LRFF passes necessary; tickets available at the door.
For more on Thursday’s events, which includes a filmmaker welcome reception at the Thea Foundation, click here.
Friday, May 15
“(T)ERROR,” 5:30 p.m. at the Clinton School of Public Service: Following the true story of FBI informant Saeed “Shariff” Torres who tracks down domestic terrorists, this thrilling cinematic non-fiction film nabbed the titles of Sundance Special Jury Prize for Break Out First Feature and Grand Jury Prize for Documentary Full Frame Film Festival.
“Breaking a Monster,” 8 p.m. at Ron Robinson Theater: Also a work of cinematic non-fiction, director Luke Meyer paints a picture of the rise through the music industry of rock ‘n’ roll teenage African American metal band Unlocking the Truth. After the screening, audiences will get a special live mini-concert from the band.
Tale of Two Cities Party, 9 p.m. on the Junction Bridge: It’s not every day you get to dance the night away on a bridge, but here’s your chance. The video/music mixes of DJ G Force are some of our personal favorites, so to make a long story short: Do not miss this. No LRFF passes necessary; tickets available at the door.
For more on Friday’s events, which includes after parties at Crush Wine Bar and The Joint in North Little Rock, click here.
Saturday, May 16
“Cartel Land,” 3 p.m. at the Clinton School of Public Service: What started as an attempt to document tensions on the U.S.-Mexico border quickly turned into an in-depth look at the vigilantes on both sides who have taken up arms against the Mexican drug cartels.
Awards Gala, 8 p.m. at the Old State House Museum: Dress up for drinks and food on the lawn of the Old State House Museum where you can munch on crawfish and enjoy the sounds of Runaway Planet. Open to Sponsor, Filmmaker, Press, Gold, Silver, and Student passes.
For more on Saturday’s events, which includes “Sweaty Betty,” “God Bless the Child” and “Applesauce,” click here.
Sunday, May 17
“White God,” 2 p.m. at Ron Robinson Theater: A young teen girl is crushed when her dad sets her beloved dog out onto the streets, but she’s determined to get it back. Directed by Kornél Mundruczó, this film won the Prize of Un Certain Regard at the Cannes Film Festival. And, oh yeah, includes 287 trained dogs.
“Turbo Kid,” 7 p.m. at Ron Robinson Theater: Ending the LRFF with a post-apocalyptic wasteland flick seems like a no-brainer, especially when this one touted as being an instant cult classic. Warning: After this film, you will definitely end up digging through your attic to dust off your old Nintendo Power Glove.
Filmmaker Farewell Legendary Riverboat Cruise, 9:30 p.m. on the Mark Twain Riverboat: This is the end-all, be-all of wrap parties, folks. Booze cruise your way down the Arkansas River and outside the city limits to the sounds of live music and good times. Because space is extremely limited, this event is limited to filmmakers, special guests and gold pass holders.
For more on Saturday’s events, which includes a panel on music in independent film production, click here.
And there you have it. You’re all ready to settle in and find your new favorite flick, and maybe even bust a move or two. For more information on the festival, check out their website. For updates, follow the LRFF on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Who’s bringing the Junior Mints?