Issaquah Film Festival is just a couple weeks away! From thought-provoking documentaries to heartwarming dramas, there’s something for everyone at this year’s festival. Don’t miss out on the chance to explore the world of cinema and connect with fellow film enthusiasts.
Join us at Regal Issaquah Highlands in Grand Ridge Plaza on Aug. 3-4. Passes for the weekend as well as individual days are available for purchase here. Ticket proceeds benefit Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank!
Making Films to Make a Difference
By Corby Casler, executive director of the Downtown Issaquah Association (DIA)
The three leaders behind the Issaquah Film Festival.
It’s tempting to tag them inexperienced until they speak and you’ve read their bios. Recent graduates from Issaquah area high schools, the three founders of the Issaquah Film Festival speak fluent film and proficient marketing. Their bios seem longer than their life spans. To wit:
Beckett Hobbs calls himself a “filmmaking Swiss army knife,” having worked as a director, writer, producer, assistant director, executive producer, cinematographer, editor, actor, and production assistant. He has finished eight productions and has nine in development. Home-grown in Issaquah and now a sophomore at Emerson College in Boston, Beckett dreams of art that “promotes deep reflection upon ourselves and our communities.”
Henry Shriber, who attended Skyline High School, has been featured at the National Film Festival for Talented Youth, Seattle International Film Festival, Utah Film Festival, Miami Short Film Festival, and All-American High School Film Festival. He makes films “that explore the human condition, inspired by his exposure to global perspectives.” He believes adventure and risk are key to telling exceptional stories.
Logan Sarzalejo, originally from Sammamish, has shown films at the Independent Shorts Awards, one of the fastest growing, LA-based international indie short film festivals, with several Oscar nominees in its repertoire. Logan’s bragging rights also include films at Lift Off Global Network Film Festivals, which promotes up-and-coming voices. His short film “Tex Ranger” is in pre-production.
All three are also founders of Tarot 77 Entertainment, a network of films and media for talented filmmakers, “built on the foundations of friendship, cooperation, and honesty.”
Most impressive is their expressed mission: To give other young filmmakers an opportunity to shine.
“I like giving back because I’ve been given a lot,” Beckett said, in earnest.
The trio have assembled backers just as passionate about helping local youth. Ardent supporters freely give mentorship, marketing, funding, and sponsorships, led by local businesses and organizations. Presenting Sponsors: Grand Ridge Plaza, Tarot 77 Entertainment, and City of Issaquah Arts Commission. Best of all: Taro 77 will donate 10% of all ticket sales to the Issaquah Food & Clothing Bank.
“We are grateful for Regency Center/Grand Ridge Plaza’s commitment to fostering a thriving local arts scene,” said Lindsey Pinkston, executive director of the Highlands Council. Their investment and involvement in the Issaquah Film Festival has allowed its founders to take it to the next level. Issaquah is the perfect venue to bring together aspiring filmmakers from all over the Pacific Northwest.”
The festival is in its second year, held at Regal Issaquah Highlands, and all involved are brimming with anticipation. The buzz is building. Beckett – he and Henry are the local guys for the summer — is scheduled to do a podcast with Issaquah Mayor Mary Lou Pauley. The films in the running have powerful pull, according to those with an insider’s view.
“We want a quality program and believe we can bring tourism to Issaquah,” Beckett said. “We plan to expand without over-expanding. We want manageable growth. Maybe we’ll do a whole West Region at some point.”
We hope you will join us at the Issaquah Film Festival on Aug. 3-4!
