People of all ages, ethnic origins and social backgrounds are in for a treat as the Hertel Avenue Outdoor Film Festival kicks off Wednesday, July 16, at Filippo's Ristorante Italiano in North Buffalo, between Delaware and Colvin.
Sponsored by Buffalo State College and Filippo's, this free outdoor film festival is designed to provide attendees a better understanding of cultural nuances through films, documentaries, music, lectures and foods-as well as preserving the diverse cultural values of the Italian community.
"The festival is an opportunity to showcase the cultural wealth of Buffalo in an entertaining and relaxed setting," said Andrea Guiati, professor and director of the All College Honors Program at Buffalo State.
Films are shown on Wednesday evenings starting July 16 through Aug. 6, coinciding in part with the well-established Italian Festival. Live music, performed by Guiati, starts each night at 8 p.m., followed by a discussion of the evening's movie at 9 p.m. The lineup of feature films, which will begin at dusk in the Filippo's parking lot, includes:
- July 16-Dinner Rush - English
- July 23-Cinema Paradiso - Italian, English subtitles
- July 30-29 th Street - English
- Aug. 6-Johnny Stecchino - Italian, English subtitles
Limited VIP tables available, reservations are required and can be made by calling (716) 447-5681.
For additional information, please call (716) 878-6220.