With over 200 films in this year's lineup spread out over two weeks, the Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival is packed with movies representing a variety of genres that come from numerous countries around the world. On Friday, November 3, 2023, many filmmakers mingled at the opening night event held at Hard Rock Live which also included a screening of director Robert Schwartzman's latest feature, The Good Half. The evening began with red-carpet photos and interviews and ended with a fun after-party that included a live band, food, drinks, and desserts.
Once inside the Hard Rock Live Theater, Schwartzman was presented with the Renaissance Award, and Brittany Snow* (Pitch Perfect) was given a Career Achievement award. Other Career Achievement award recipients included David Arquette (the Scream Franchise) and Matt Walsh (VEEP), who weren't in attendance due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA Strike. The audience was then treated to a showing of The Good Half, starring Nick Jonas (Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle), Snow, Arquette, Walsh, Alexandra Shipp (Barbie), and Elisabeth Shue (Leaving Las Vegas). The heart-wrenching drama, written by newcomer, Brett Ryland follows Renn (Jonas) as he returns home to Ohio for his Mom's funeral.
Known for its eclectic array of movies and incredible parties, The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival has also become a staple in South Florida and continues to grow year after year. Also showing at the Festival this year is Snow's feature film directorial debut, the semi-autobiographical, Parachute. Beautifully presented it offers a glimpse inside the mind of a young woman with an eating disorder. Other films include a number of documentaries, an entry by Miami Beach's own Amy Glazer called 7000 Miles, and Senior starring The Shield's Michael Chiklis.
With something for everyone and plenty of movies and fun to go around, The 38th Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival promises to stay around for many years.
Check out this year's schedule here: https://fliff.com/event-calendar-fliff2023/?view=list
*Brittany Snow did not attend the Red Carpet opening night as she could not speak about her role in The Good Half. However, she was proud to be at the Festival to discuss Parachute and participated in a short Q and A after the showing.
