The countdown has begun, film lovers. Hollywood arrives on Thursday for the 17th Annual Hamptons International Film Festival, an October staple on the East End. (Really, what else goes on in the fall?) Films will be fêted and celebrities gawked upon, with notable features premiering each of the festival's five days. To prepare oneself, take look at a few of the films and events that will be the talk of the towns this weekend.
· View from Long Island: Films shot on Long Island, by local filmmakers or about the area are under this heading, with dark comedy Paper Man getting a lot of buzz. The film starring Jeff Daniels and Ryan Reynolds was shot in Montauk.
· Contemporary Israeli Films: In honor of Tel Aviv's 100th Anniversary, a collection of films have been chosen for a HIFF Tel Aviv Anniversary program. Each honors the 'faces and cultures of contemporary Israel'
· Rising Stars: Sharon Stone 'mentors' this year's winners, who include Emmy Rossum, Zach Gilford, Emma Stone and Rooney Mara. The breakout stars will attend a gala in their honor, as well as a public symposium and a brunch with Mentor Stone.
· A Converstation With... Series: The popular Guild Hall series invites Alan Alda, Marty Bregman, Alec Baldwin, Sharon Stone and Steve Buscemi to have a 'frank and lively' discussion about their craft.
· Cinematography Master Class with Barry Sonnenfeld: Budding filmmakers will want to stop by this free event on Saturday, moderated by David Schwartz, Chief Curator at the American Museum of the Moving Image.
And, of course, Sharon Stone is getting an award. Acceptance speech fun to ensue.
Side note: Stay tuned tomorrow for our top 10 film picks during the weekend's festivities.
· The 17th Hamptons Film Festival [NYT]
· Hamptons International Film Festival [Official Site]