When the Greater Cleveland Urban Film Festival (GCUFF) got started twelve years ago, its primary vision was to showcase the work of emerging filmmakers and established artists who both contribute to and celebrate urban culture.
But if you ask Donna Dabbs, executive director of the GCUFF, the idea behind the event is pretty simple: "The festival is a nice, easy way to inform, educate and entertain people. Communicating through the medium of film is an amazing way to inspire and uplift people. And that's what we want to do."
She and her team (comprised 100 percent of volunteers) do this by showcasing minority films, which reinforce positive images and dispel negative stereotypes.
And, it's been a smashing success. Every year, thousands have turned up in increasing numbers to join GCUFF and their mission. This year, they're hoping to bring more festivalgoers than ever Sept. 18 - 26 at Atlas Cinemas Shaker Square 6.
"I think it's important to know that GCUFF is for everybody. The festival is targeted to share more African American and minority stories, but it's not just for us. We can all benefit," Dabbs said.
We've checked it out. And, so should you. Here's some of the many reasons to love GCUFF:
71 Films Over 9 Days
"Of the films, about 50 percent are features and 50 percent are shorts," Dabbs said. "We have documentaries, educational films and plenty of drama." There are even animated films offered in the program.
For the 14th annual festival, the theme this year is "Beautiful Together." Films you can be on the lookout for include "Come Together: Art's Power for Change," a film about how art drives social progress and "Beyond the Headlines: The NABJ Journey," a professional documentary about the National Association of Black Journalists (whose conference was hosted in CLE this year) and how the organization has impacted the profession to short films like "Finding Jamia's Spirit," about an inquisitive young girl who can feel her late father's spirit when she needs it.
In addition to the ticketed screenings, GCUFF will offer a virtual festival, which has taken off over the last few years.
Important Dialogue
Film festivals like GCUFF present great opportunities for serious dialogue and important conversations.
Throughout GCUFF's schedule, festivalgoers can attend panel discussions covering important issues impacting Cleveland's urban community with key community leaders, as well as educational workshops and discussions with attending filmmakers.
"The Opening Night program & reception is always exciting," said Dabbs. This year's Opening Night takes place at Karamu House and features a compelling documentary called "We Want the Funk!" exploring funk music's history. Attendees can enjoy light refreshments and complimentary cocktails while celebrating African American cinema and culture.
Other discussions include "An Evening with the Whitleys: It's a Family Affair," which features Cleveland's own Kym Whitley, who will receive GCUFF's Lifetime Achievement Award.
Next Gen Filmmakers
"Part of our mission is to inspire young people to consider this industry as a career," Dabbs said. "In this industry, there are so many opportunities both behind the camera and in front of the camera. The festival offers a perfect way to help young people look forward and to consider something new."
For even more information on GCUFF, its films, the event schedule and how to purchase passes, click here.