Gasparilla International Film Festival Kicks Off Today

Bloomingdale-Riverview film lovers might want to check out the sixth annual (GIFF), which kicks off today, March 29.

The VIP Opening Night Reception and Film starts at 6 p.m. at the historic Tampa Theatre, 711 N. Franklin St., with the screening of the dramedy Peace, Love and Misunderstanding, directed by two-time Academy Award nominated Bruce Beresford and starring Jane Fonda as a hippie grandmother.

Opening night admission at the downtown theatre includes complimentary beer, wine and food from local restaurants.

If you can’t make it tonight, don’t fret because GIFF will continue until Sunday, April 1.

Folks will have the opportunity to choose from more than 120 movies screened in different venues, including in Hyde Park Village, Tampa Theatre and Muvico Ybor.

Films range from drama and horror features to a selection of short movies, including Trailer Park Jesus, La Mujer de Ivan, and Searching for Sonny.

“This year’s selection gives the Tampa Bay Community a first look at some of the most sought after independent films before they are released,” said Joe Restaino, board president of GIFF. “We have recruited and screened films from all of the top film festivals and are excited more filmmakers and talent will be present at GIFF this year to represent their films.”

Academy Award nominee Chazz Palminteri and actor Keith David were announced as honorees of GIFF.

Chazz Palminteri, who played in The Usual Suspects, wrote and starred in A Bronx Tale and scored a best supporting actor Oscar nod for Bullets Over Broadway, will receive the GIFF's career achievement award during the opening night festivities at Tampa Theatre.

An intimate dinner and wine pairing with Palminteri at will take place on Friday from 7-9:30 p.m.

If you stop at the SoHo restaurant at 717 S. Howard Ave. after 9 p.m. the same night, you will recognize some familiar faces behind the bar, as Danielle Harris, Michael Roark and Kimberly McCullough will participate in the Guest Bartender Night. All tips generated at the bar will benefit GIFF.

A private dinner with David will be from 7-9 p.m. on Saturday at in Hyde Park Village.

During the same night, David will also be in attendance for his 1982's , a horror flick getting its own unique showcase in a temporary drive-in theater constructed atop the Hyde Park Village parking garage D. Movie starts at 7:30 p.m. and will be followed by an after-party with a DJ.

For a complete schedule of events and to buy tickets, visit gasparillafilmfestival.com.