Windsor Film Festival Opens With Sold-Out Bookends

The 22nd annual Windsor International Film Festival began Thursday morning in downtown Windsor, marking the start of a 10-day program.

Three facts define the opening day. First, the festival features 232 films from 55 countries. Second, both the opening and closing night screenings are sold out. Third, ticket sales for the remaining titles are moving quickly, according to organizers.

Vincent Georgie, executive director and chief programmer, reported a large presale that began in late August. The opening night film, Paper Tiger starring Adam Driver, has no remaining seats. The closing night film, The Debut starring Julianne Moore, is also fully booked. Georgie stated that tickets remain available for the other 230 films in the lineup.

Georgie noted that the strong sales reflect a positive response from the public and the organizing team. He said the demand indicates that Windsor has established a successful cultural event. He also projected that the influx of visitors will increase spending at local businesses. "It means that Windsor has built a hit," Georgie said.

The festival will run until November 8. Screenings are taking place at three downtown locations: the Capitol Theatre, the Chrysler Theatre, and the Armouries building on University Avenue. Earlier this month, WIFF shifted some films to larger venues to handle higher attendance numbers.

Georgie urged attendees to purchase tickets promptly because availability is decreasing. He described the current atmosphere in downtown Windsor as buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming days.