The Fabulous Independent Film Festival Grows

On August 18 and 19, 2012, the Second Annual Fabulous Independent Film Festival (FIFF) will be held at Burns Court Cinemas in the historic Burns Court District of Sarasota. Festival founder and organizer Magida Diouri is excited to expand the annual LGBT film festival to a two-day event, showcasing up to six features and five shorts.

Diouri states she is seeking films illustrating LGBT acceptance and coming-of-age issues. She plans to select at least one foreign film but has yet to determine the title. Presently, Diouri is in negotiations with foreign and US distributors to determine the 2012 program. Along with her duties at FIFF, Diouri is also known for programming the 2012 Sarasota Film Festival.

Last year, The 2011 Fabulous Film Festival brought in 350 attendees, featuring four features and three shorts, including the MeteorEYES video Best Text. This year Diouri hopes to attract more attendees by making the festival an interactive event, featuring opening and closing night parties where filmmakers and movie aficionados can mingle.

"We really want the whole community present, gay and straight alike," Diouri states.

The Harvey Milk Festival will be the beneficiary 501(c)(3) partner of the event.

Presently, Diouri is seeking additional sponsors and film submissions featuring LGBT themes. For more information please visit fabulousiff.com.

The 2012 Fabulous Independent Film Festival
August 18-19, 2012
Burns Court Cinemas
506 Burns Lane
Sarasota, FL 34236

- Anthony Paull is a syndicated columnist, author and filmmaker. His debut novel Outakes of a Walking Mistake is available now.