The lineup for the 14th annual Oxford Film Festival was announced in late 2016. The lineup features 151 films, made up of 34 feature films, 117 short films, music videos, new media and virtual reality projects.

Twenty-four world premieres and five U.S premieres will take place at the film festival along with 35 regional premieres. The festival has received an increase in film submissions for the third consecutive year. Panels with actors, directors and other artists will give audiences a chance to interact with the people involved in the film making process at every level, an opportunity that executive director of the Oxford Film Festival, Melaine Addington, is excited to bring to film fest goers.

“I personally always look forward to having filmmakers from all over the world come to Oxford, some for the first time, some who return year after year because they love the festival,” Addington said. “Then getting to see our locals interact with them at screenings and ask great questions after the film really makes me happy. It lets the art side of filmmaking emerge with filmmakers interacting directly with their audiences. I am happy to play a small role in that.”

The film festival has something for everyone, offering a wide variety of films, but Addington noticed a theme as the lineup for film festival began to take shape.

“Across several of our categories, we have seen a theme emerge of strong females and minorities and people with disabilities that break stereotypes as well as have moving and powerful stories plus people fighting for civil rights and justice, and that is coming from filmmakers not just in the U.S. but international,” Addington said. “There are some pretty incredible stories told this year. Of course, we also have some fun late night horror and some comedy. It is not all serious!”

This is Addington’s first full year as the executive director, and she has taken a look back on the film festival’s past to create an atmosphere that the audience will enjoy.

“I have learned tremendous amounts about what works, how to better improve our line up, etc. Many of our volunteer staff have been involved for years and always think of ways to make the experience as smooth as possible with streamlining ticket sales, increasing screens for more viewing opportunities and providing more free opportunities for the community so that everyone feels welcome to take part,” Addington said. “We kept what works about the festival, which is showcasing the generosity and hospitality and charm of Oxford and its residents and continue to improve our panels, workshops and special events, as well as top-notch programming.”

Tickets can be purchased for individual films for $12 until February 14 as a part of early bird pricing. VIP passes, which give access to all films, parties and the green rooms for the entirety of the festival, can be purchased for $150. A weekend pass can be purchased for $60 but does not include entrance to certain films. A one-day pass for entrance to all films can be purchased for $25. The 2017 Film Festival will begin on February 15 and end on the 19th.

For the entire lineup of the 2017 Oxford Film Festival and more ticketing information, click here.

Steven Gagliano is a writer for HottyToddy.com. He can be reached at steven.gagliano@hottytoddyarchive.com.

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