Your guide to movies and events at the Oscar-qualifying 2019 Florida Film Festival, running from April 12-21 in Orlando.

There will be lights, cameras and plenty of action when the Florida Film Festival (FFF) returns to the Orlando area from April 12-21! Presented by the Enzian Theater in Maitland, about 20 minutes from downtown Orlando, this Oscar-qualifying festival will feature more than 180 films, plus special events, forums and celebrity appearances, resulting in a one-of-a-kind celebration that film buffs won’t want to miss.

Before you secure your seats for Orlando’s biggest movie festival, see what FFF organizers have lined up for their 28th edition.

Movie Screenings at the 2019 Florida Film Festival

Given the Florida Film Festival’s middle name, it should come as no surprise that films are its main focus! In 2019, the event will offer screenings of 180-plus movies, including more than 20 world premieres.

Many FFF entries will be screened at the Enzian Theater. Located just north of Winter Park, this single-screen, non-profit cinema café has been a major facet of Orlando’s cultural scene for decades. In addition to providing a comfortable venue with plush couches and chairs, the Enzian offers full lunch and dinner menus, as well as cocktails, beer, wine and more via its onsite Eden Bar. Food and drinks can all be enjoyed inside the theater — or even ordered from your seat.

FFF movies not screened at the Enzian will be available at the nearby Regal Cinemas Winter Park Village 20 & RPX. Part of Winter Park Village, an upscale, outdoor shopping and dining center, Regal Cinemas boasts overstuffed leather recliners and a wide range of food and beverages, including alcohol. Accordingly, everyone’s guaranteed a comfortable seat and good time at the Florida Film Festival!

Celebrity Appearances at the 2019 Florida Film Festival

At press time, the complete list of celebrity filmmakers scheduled to attend 2019’s Florida Film Festival was still being finalized, but you can always expect to see up-and-coming and established industry talent at this event. In years past, attending celebrities have included Susan Sarandon, Oliver Stone, Tippi Hedren, Christopher Walken and many others.

On April 14, the festival will host An Evening With the Blair Witch: A 20th Anniversary Celebration. On top of a rare, 35mm screening of the low-budget horror phenomenon, The Blair Witch Project, this event will feature a post-film reunion of key cast and crewmembers.

On April 19, Richard Dreyfuss will attend the 7:30 p.m. screening of The Goodbye Girl at the Enzian. He'll also participate in a Q&A session after the movie.

Refer back to this blog for more details on celebrity appearances at the 2019 Florida Film Festival as they are announced.

Special Events and Forums at the 2019 Florida Film Festival

The Florida Film Festival doesn’t just screen movies — it also celebrates the artform with a host of ancillary parties and forums. Here’s what FFF organizers have planned for 2019, including several events that are free and open to the public.

Opening Night Film & Party (April 12)

Celebrate the Florida Film Festival’s opening night with the premiere of this year’s featured film, Woman in Motion. Directed by Todd Thompson, the documentary honors actress Nichelle Nichols — known throughout the world as Lieutenant Uhura from the original Star Trek television series and films — and her efforts to recruit women and minorities to the field of space exploration.

This movie will be screened at both Regal Cinemas and the Enzian, with the latter hosting an opening night celebration complete with food and cocktails from top local restaurants.

Festival Block Party (April 13)

Held at Winter Park Village, this event will feature live entertainment. Furthermore, FFF ticket holders will receive free drinks and appetizers from select Winter Park Village eateries.

Sunday Brunch Buffet (April 14 & 21)

No ticket is necessary to join this tasty event at the Enzian, where the mouthwatering, a-la-carte fare will be prepared by the Eden Bar’s chef.

Sip and Savor: Cocktail Tasting (April 15 & 16)

Sample craft cocktails at these Eden Bar events, with flavors and concoctions provided by Diageo and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Turning the Tables: Renegade Women of Early Cinema (April 17)

Hosted by Elizabeth Weitzman, film journalist for The Wrap and former senior film critic for the New York Daily News, this free forum at the Enzian will focus on her new book, Renegade Women in Film & TV.

Sketches Insane: The Wild World of Independent Animation (April 18)

Held at the Enzian, this free panel will feature a collection of animators discussing their contributions to the art form, including Bill Plympton, Andy London, Caroline Voagen Nelson and others.

Filmmaker Forum (April 19)

Don’t miss this lively and dynamic exchange of ideas and know-how at the Enzian, moderated by Sheena Fowler of the Orlando Film Commission. Admission is free.

Awards Bash (April 20)

The stars come out for this ticketed event, where the FFF’s Jury and Audience Awards will be announced. After the ceremony, stick around to experience a spooky, pop-up amusement park, Celluloid Circus!

General Delights: Live Music (Daily)

Throughout the Florida Film Festival, the Enzian will host live music on weekends from 11 a.m. – 6 p.m., and on weekdays from 6-9 p.m. Come out and see some of Orlando’s best local music while enjoying drink and menu creations from the Eden Bar.

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