Take a Sip of Blue Whiskey This July

The Blue Whiskey Independent Film Festival (BWiFF), voted one of the top 25 coolest film festivals in the world by MovieMaker Magazine, is ramping up for its fifth year, screening over thirty films from around the world. This year the festival, running July 20th through July 27th, will be expanding to an additional venue, Star Cinema Grill (53 S. Evergreen Ave., Arlington Heights), for its opening and closing nights. Screening sessions during the week will still be featured at Cutting Hall Performing Arts Center (150 E. Wood St, Palatine).

BWiFF is a one of a kind experience as it provides the audience with personal interaction with the filmmakers after each screening. Filmmakers are encouraged to attend the festival to engage with the audience in a Q&A following their film, while those who are unable to attend the festival in person are able to “Sykpe” in.

This year BWiFF will be kicking off with its Blue Carpet Opening Night, at Star Cinema Grill, featuring the Illinois Premiere of part sci-fi thriller and part relationship drama, “Coherence”, directed by James Ward Byrkit. “Coherence” follows eight friends at a dinner party as they experience a troubling chain of reality bending events.  

On Wednesday, July 23rd, the festival will take the stage at Durty Nellie’s (180 N. Smith Street, Palatine), for a night celebrating independent music. Official Music Video Selections will screen, followed by live performances from bands Jackpot Donnie and headliner Big Paraid.  

The festival returns to Star Cinema Grill on Sunday for its Blue Glass Awards Dinner. Guests are welcome to grab dinner and drinks while judges present awards for everything from Best of Fest to Best Original Music. Following the awards will be the Blue Whiskey Chaser screening and Midwest Premiere of comedy, horror film “Life After Beth”, directed by Jeff Baena. Zach (Dane DeHaan) is devastated by the unexpected death of his girlfriend, Beth (Aubrey Plaza). When she miraculously comes back to life, Zach takes full advantage to experience the things he regretted not doing with her.

More details on the festival, the full schedule and program can be found online at www.bwiff.com. There are individual session and full festival passes available for purchase available for purchase.