CELEBRATE INDEPENDENTS! THIRTEEN/WNET’S REEL NEW YORK FILM FESTIVAL KICKS OFF THE SUMMER WITH INDEPENDENT FILMS AND VIDEOS BY NEW YORKERS AND ABOUT NEW YORK JUNE 27TH
Six-Week Festival Showcases Films From 24 Emerging And Established Filmmakers. Longest-Running New York-Centric Film Series hosted this season by Independent Filmmaker Christine Turner.

The topics, themes and ideas explored during this thirteenth season of the REEL NEW YORK FILM FESTIVAL, Thirteen/WNET New York’s celebration of independent film and video, are as provocative as the city itself, stretching from unique perspectives on family dynamics, the tragedy and devastation of gun violence, and tentative romantic entanglements; to subtle explorations of human nature, considerations of New York of yesteryear, varied expressions of the dance world, and the dream of flight realized through the magic of cinema. The six-week festival airs late night Fridays at 12:30 a.m. beginning June 27th .

Hundreds of films were submitted for consideration. This year’s selection features the very best in documentary, narrative, animation, and experimental works. “This season of REEL NEW YORK continues to provide Thirteen/WNET audiences with films featuring fresh new perspectives and approaches to the medium,” said curator/producer Duana C. Butler. “New York is rich with emerging and established filmmaking talent who are consistently pushing the boundaries of what is possible within cinema. And for Thirteen years, Reel New York has continued to present these diverse voices and talents through a showcase at Thirteen/WNET that reaches audiences hungry to experience the latest work from the independent film scene.”

This year, the REEL NEW YORK FILM FESTIVAL presents a new host, independent filmmaker Christine Turner who each week will introduce each episode serving as a guide through this world of independent films for audiences at home. An alumna of last season’s REEL NEW YORK with her film Rubber Soles, Turner is familiar with the importance of REEL NEW YORK as a vital showcase for the New York independent film community.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How were the films selected?
The REEL NEW YORK FILM FESTIVAL is curated as a collective process between Duana C. Butler, Producer/Curator; James Nicoloro, Series Producer; and John DeNatale, Executive Producer. In order to be selected, films must be made by New York-based filmmakers, reflect the diversity, spirit, and energy of New York, and explore New York subject matter, characters, and themes. Any kind of film — documentary, narrative, experimental, or animated — that shows strong storytelling, performances, and command over the craft of filmmaking is welcome. The festival works to reflect the wide range of points of view, voices, and communities that are often not adequately explored in the mainstream media or in the wider public discourse. Lastly, the REEL NEW YORK team is looking for fresh, innovative and creatively inspiring voices. Ultimately, the REEL NEW YORK FILM FESTIVAL is a showcase for the best of independent NY-based film talent.

How can I submit my film?
Filmmakers interested in submitting work should mail a DVD of their film, with synopsis, filmmaker bio, contact info, and listings of other festivals, exhibitions, broadcasts, awards, etc to:

Duana C. Butler
Curator/Producer
Reel New York
WNET/Thirteen
825 Eighth Avenue
New York, NY 10019

212.560.2893
reelny@thirteen.org