International Maritime Film Festival Returns to Bucksport 9/29-10/1/23

Main Street Bucksport and World Ocean Observatory are pleased to announce the return of the International Maritime Film Festival. The 2023 festival, in its 7th year, is an annual juried contest of films celebrating the heritage, spirit of adventure and ingenuity of boats and waterborne pursuits.

The premier event for maritime-themed filmmaking, the Festival takes place entirely at The Alamo Theatre, 85 Main Street, Bucksport, Maine, September 29-October 1. The weekend-long program begins with a Friday night concert made possible by Media Partner/Sponsor WERU Community Radio featuring The Oystermen, an acclaimed Maine traditional maritime music group. A rare find, this trio performs rousing songs of the sea, as well as lively traditional instrumental tunes.   Fresh oysters and treats, wine, beer and more to purchase in the lobby, show begins at 7:00 pm. Suggested Donation $15

 Saturday brings 3 sessions to enjoy jury-selected shorts and films, with the contest winning feature film showing Saturday evening at 7:00 pm. Sessions are 9:30 am, 2:30 pm and 7:00 pm, cost is $10 per session or $25 for all three, payable at the door or purchase online at https://imff23.brownpapertickets.com/.

 During scheduled intermissions of the in-person event, festival-goers can explore downtown Bucksport and its eateries, shops and spectacular Waterfront Walkway overlooking Penobscot Bay, with views of Fort Knox and the Penobscot Narrows Bridge.

 The Festival closes Sunday, October 1, with the classic Disney film The Finest Hours. This suspenseful thriller is the true story of a 1952 nor’easter that split the SS Pendleton in two and the rescue efforts by the US Coast Guard to save the lives of the 32 souls on board. We will welcome Coast Guard Members for a pre-film talk at 1:30 pm, and the movie will begin at 2:00 PM. Admission $10.

An online festival will follow the in-person event. The On-Demand Festival will take place on Vimeo and a one-month On Demand pass will cost $10. Learn more by visiting the IMFF website noted below.

       FMI go to www.maritimefilmfestial.com or contact John Paul LaLonde 207-263-4443