November 4, 2009

Over the next four days, more than 85 films will hit theaters across Charlottesville during the 22nd annual Virginia Film Festival. Some films are well known, while others will make their debut at the festival. Although, before the show can open, venues like the Digital Media Lounge are getting a transformation in an effort to prepare for opening night.

For the first time in the film festival's history, the event will feature a video lounge that festival director Jody Kielbasa says will provide a completely different experience for viewers.

"That's going to be an interactive media experience. People can just wander in and see films that have been prepared by university students, the Bridge in town, and other members of the community," said Kielbasa.

University of Virginia student Yasminca Wilson created a film for the festival and cannot wait to show it off to her peers and other festival goers.

"I'm making a film that's a split screen piece with break dancers, which is very interactive fun. The assignment was to be able to play it on a loop, which is great for something in a gallery. You have to get as much from the piece just looking at it and walking by as we do sitting and watching it," said Wilson.

But before the opening credits can roll, everything must be in place. To avoid glitches and audio problems, UVa students and audio visual crews are working hard tweaking projectors, testing screens, and checking electrical wiring. They're all working together to put the final touches on what promises to be a stunning opening night.

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