LETTER — Record-setting numbers at Kamloops Film Festival

The 19th Annual Kamloops Film Festival (KFF) was an astounding success. With 15 films over 10 days at the Paramount theatre, and 10 events at various venues downtown, KFF 2015 saw record setting numbers on many levels. The 19 person KFF Committee hosted more than 15 special guests and brought in peak attendance at over 4,200 (Over 20 percent increase from last year).

There is no doubt that Kamloops audiences want to see excellent independent films from Canada and beyond, and we are thrilled to make it happen. The KFF Committee is extremely proud of this year’s festival; highlights include the very successful return of DarkFest with What We Do in the Shadows (see below for more information), a well received absorption of the Kamloops Independent Short Short (KISS) Film Competition, and an increased number of engagement events. Plus, this year saw the establishment of online ticket sales and Full Festival Passes, which were both demanded by our patrons.

As we look toward our 20th anniversary festival in 2016, we are encouraged to make the KFF bigger, better, and more fun. We will continue to respond to the needs and wants of our core demographic as we entice new viewers to our Festival from Kamloops and beyond. We have a lot of exciting ideas and plans brewing; so don’t miss out in 2016!

In closing, we would like to thank all of the volunteers, sponsors, supporters, partners, and especially attendees who made 2015 the best KFF yet! We hope to see you all next year!

TOM FRIEDMAN

Chair, Kamloops Film Society