The annual Tribeca Film Festival kicks off in New York City April 17, 2013 and will showcase a diverse collection of international films, as well as celebrate New York for its role in the world of filmmaking. This 11-daylong happening is packed with events ranging from discussions led by celebrated figures in the film industry to a street festival open to all.
With more than 1,300 films and thousands in attendance, it’s important to have a good guide in hand so that you don’t miss out on your favorite events. From the finer details to where to rest your head after a long day of viewings, we have all you need to know for a successful cinematic getaway.
What to Know
The sale of tickets opens on different days for selected members of the community. American Express cardholders are able to buy tickets online now; downtown residents who can show proof of residency below Canal Street can get tickets on April 14; and members of the general public will have access to tickets on April 15. Tickets can be purchased online, over the phone or at ticket counters at Tribeca Cinemas, Clearview Cinemas Chelsea and AMC Loews Village 7.
It is advisable, however, to snag tickets to desired screenings as soon as they are made available as most tend to sell out quickly. Ticket prices range from $6 (for matinees) to $25 (for talks).
Keep in mind that what attendees get, besides the opportunity to sit in on screenings to some great work such as At Any Price, starring Dennis Quaid and Zac Efron, the buzzed-about comedy Almost Christmas with Paul Rudd and Paul Giamatti, and Big Shot, a documentary on John Spano’s 1996 purchase of the New York Islanders directed by Entourage’s Kevin Connolly, is access to the filmmakers themselves, from cast to directors, who often host Q&A sessions either before or after the screenings.
What to Do
Beyond the foreign films and informative lectures, attendees can take part in a series of complimentary events for the whole family. The happenings include the Tribeca Drive-In (April 18-20), Family Festival Street Fair and Tribeca/ESPN Sports Day (both on April 27), and Family Screenings (April 21 and 27). Kiddos won’t want to miss the free screening of The Smurfs with special appearances by cast members.
The interactive installation, Storyscapes (April 19-21), will be showcased at the Bombay Sapphire House of Imagination. Highlighting artists who create narrative through modern forms of digital media with interactive web components, the exhibit is gratis and open to those 21 and older. Online reservations for a 60-minute viewing are highly recommended.
Foodies attending the festival are also in luck as Tribeca’s cuisine scene is one of the best in the city, offering a long list of fine eateries to choose from, including Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Restaurants Bouley and Corton.
Where to Stay
Lower Manhattan’s Conrad New York is one of the festival’s hotel partners. But another nearby property offering laid-back luxury is the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star hotel, Trump SoHo New York. The locale is home to one of the best rooftop bars in the city, Bar D’Eau, where guests can look down at all of the festivities happening in the Big Apple while sipping on some bubbly.
And not too far from Trump SoHo is another Four-Star, The Greenwich Hotel,. The brainchild of the film fest’s founder Robert De Niro, The Greenwich features a restaurant, Locanda Verde, that allows for a casual sidewalk dining experience, perfect for taking in all the people watching and events.
How to Get Around
Parking spots on a regular day in New York City are hard to come by, and during the festival this challenge is further intensified. Commuting by subway, or any other form of public transportation, including taxis, is the best way to get around. Allot time for traffic, as well as street closings, especially during the street fair.
For more information and updates, please make sure to check out the Tribeca Film Festival’s official website.
Photos Courtesy of Tribeca Film Festival
