Sniffling ricocheted about the crowd as raw emotion became king. The room seemed to be weeping in unison-- myself included. I suppose that is the hallmark of a really well-written, acted, and produced film. The viewing of, “Mr. Church”, had just concluded. For a brief 104 minutes, we were absorbed into the lives of 3 main characters. We laughed, we whispered in amazement, and we cried. We were of a single mind.
This is the thrill of attending a film festival. This was the annual Napa Valley Film Festival.
For 5 contiguous days, a smorgasbord of visual art, wine tastings, and culinary delights are served. All of this occurs in one of America’s most charming regions: California’s Napa Valley. As the month of November hails this festive occasion, autumn has its arms securely wrapped about every aspect of nature. The cool days and crisp nights play tandem with the lambent light over the multitude of vineyards and surrounding mountains. Rich, deep shades of cinnamon, amber, and ochre blend harmoniously with the cobalt skies and verdure of the land. It is a most captivating scene. An artist’s dream.
This event is spread over the 4 main villages which tally the valley: Napa, Yountville, St Helena, and Calistoga. Not only are the films, themselves, quite diverse in nature, so are the venues in which they are shown. Some audiences are seated in historic structures while others are found in state-of-the-art municipal theatres. By studying the catalog of scheduled films, one creates their own agenda. As a good meal is not difficult to find in the valley, one is at a near conundrum to fit everything into such a tight window of opportunity.
The audience’s voice matters. Nearly every viewing is accompanied by a ballot. The prospect of sharing your opinion is rather refreshing. ---Maybe the film seemed to be a waste of your time----maybe it sparked an emotion you thought you no longer could summon. In any case, patrons’ votes are tabulated and “winners” are crowned in time for the closing ceremony.
Additionally, many screenings are followed with a discussion featuring the director, writer, and actor(s) of the film. It is most interesting to learn of their inspiration and thought process. It is a great window into the world of filmmaking.
Not that this is enough, but every night is filled with reverie, ranging from a pool party in spa-like springs-to-an evening of formal merriment. The festival is greeted by both young and old---regardless of one’s perceived artistic knowledge or position in society.
Sipping a glass of Opus One’s 2013 vintage wine, I began to ponder what is so special about this art: The art of film. It is a vehicle of transportation. For the fleeting time we sit before the screen, we are conveyed to another time/place/and situation. Perhaps, we escape our own set of circumstances and experience that of anothers’. For a few moments we are allowed to exhale or scream as we see fit. Each film touching the lives of those who view it.-- Maybe for just a day, maybe for a lifetime.
Much to consider….My glass was empty far too soon.
4 Comments
Dec 16, 2016, 8:37:35 PM
Austin Rese - Thank you! I truly appreciate your kind words and support. I hope you are doing well this special season of the year!
Dec 16, 2016, 4:51:00 PM
Judy Krueger - Austin, As always you touch my heart with your descriptive writing.
Nov 28, 2016, 4:57:31 PM
Austin Rese - Thank you! It is quite an experience to savor.
Nov 27, 2016, 4:02:45 PM
P.J.S. - Perfection in all ways.