Fans and filmmakers were disappointed when the third annual Cindependent Film Festival was postponed until August 2021 as a result of the coronavirus.
The festival was founded in 2018 by current Executive Director Allyson West as a way to bring Cincinnati filmmakers together to share their work, as well as draw international filmmakers to the city and provide resources and education on the art and craft of the medium.
But despite the cancelation of this year’s fest, the creators behind Cindependent have come up with a new way to continue to support independent filmmakers and their stories.
Reels on Wheels is coming to various neighborhoods throughout Cincinnati as Cindependent’s new way of sharing independent films. Displayed on a 10-foot-by-six-foot mobile screen, the films, curated by West, are said to be uplifting, family-friendly shorts that “reflect the diversity of our city and bring joy to our community,” according to a release.
“This program brings art and entertainment together in a unique and meaningful way amidst a global crisis,” West says. “With our 2020 festival canceled, and many other local festivals temporarily postponed or ‘going virtual,’ our mobile cinema offers a cinematic artistic experience that can reach all members of our community regardless of location, income, or vulnerability to COVID-19. We are giving a creative departure from the constrictions of current daily life.”
Find announcements about upcoming screenings and showtimes on Cindependent’s social media. Each screening block lasts one hour.
The next screenings will take place at 9 p.m., 10 p.m. and 11 p.m. June 27 and 28 at the NEST Parking Lot at 4145 Apple St. in Northside.
All of the pop-up shows are free but if you want to attend a screening, you must first make a reservation as seating will be limited. Guests are also asked to bring their own chairs and wear masks. Merchandise and concessions will be for sale.
To learn more about Cindependent and Reels on Wheels, visit cindependentfilmfest.org.
This article appears in The Summer Guide.
