Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival (JTIFF) has announced the highly anticipated opening night feature, DIVINITY, set for its PA premiere Thursday, April 20th, at the Mauch Chunk Opera House. Executive produced by Hollywood icon Steven Soderbergh and directed by the visionary Eddie Alcazar, this retro sci-fi masterpiece boasts an all-star cast including Scott Bakula, Stephen Dorff, Bella Thorne, and the controversial Emily Willis.

JTIFF is also thrilled to present rising stars of the indie music scene, funk & psych band LADY HD, to kick off the event along with the stunning imagery of video artist Nico Dominguez, brought to you by GREAT CIRCLES music collective out of Philadelphia.

One of JTIFF’s most anticipated films is THE ANGRY BLACK GIRL AND HER MONSTER, a fresh modern twist on the classic Frankenstein story, written & directed by the talented Bomani J. Story, fresh from his World Premiere at SXSW last month.  Story will be flying in from LA especially for this PA Premiere, offering a unique opportunity for the audience to engage with one of Hollywood’s rising young stars.

JTIFF is also proud to present this year’s Sundance hit, BIRTH/REBIRTH, directed by the talented Laura Moss. The movie offers yet another fascinating take on Mary Shelley’s horror classic, providing a compelling and unsettling experience that will leave audiences on the edge of their seats. This PA Premiere will screen Friday, 4/21 at 7:00 pm, followed by the FILMMAKERS’ GALA at the Mauch Chunk Ballroom at 9:00 pm.

And on Saturday, 4/22 at 1:30 pm, Jim Thorpe will be invaded by HUNDREDS OF BEAVERS, the outrageous slapstick Winter adventure from the Midwestern maniacs who won Best Comedy for LAKE MICHIGAN MONSTER at JTIFF 2020. The filmmakers will return to Jim Thorpe to present their film and pass out cold cans of Old Milwaukee to our thirsty audience.

JTIFF is also excited to screen KEEPERS OF THE WAY, a documentary exploring the history and culture of the LENAPE NATION, the original indigenous tribe of this region. After the 5:00pm screening on Sunday, April 23, attendees will have the chance to discuss the film with director Evan Cohen, Producer Elijah Lee Reeder, as well as the esteemed LENAPE NATION elders.  Any member of the LENAPE NATION with proof of membership will be admitted to the screening for free.

But the excitement doesn’t end there. JTIFF will also host the glamorous FILMMAKERS’ GALA, on Friday, April 21, at the Mauch Chunk Ballroom, featuring a cash bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, and mind-bending visuals by video artist Nico Dominguez, along with Philadelphia’s own DJ MERLOT who’ll be dropping her signature dance beats into the wee hours. Proper attire is required.

JTIFF promises to be four days of Live music, glamorous parties, and 87 first-run films from around the world.   Don’t miss out on this incredible event!

2023 PRESS KIT JIM THORPE INDEPENDENT FILM FESTIVAL 

Thursday, April 20 – Opening Night Red Carpet. Doors Open @ 7:00 pm Mauch Chunk Opera House

Friday, April 21, screenings begin at 11:00 AM  / FILMMAKERS’ GALA at the Mauch Chunk Ballroom

Saturday, April 22- 11:00 am student film blocks begin, culminating in our notorious midnight (NSFW) GRINDHOUSE program

Sunday, April 23 – Local Heroes Film Block 11:00 AM  – Keepers of the Way Screening TIME, Press Opportunity time Awards Ceremony – 8:30 pm @ Mauch Chunk Opera House. / Festival Wrap Party @ 9:30 pm (Location TBD)

For Tickets and Info, go to:  Jimthorpeindiefilmfest.com
The 6th Annual Jim Thorpe Independent Film Festival – April 20-23, 2023
Mauch Chunk Opera House 14 W. Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229
Mauch Chunk Ballroom 41 W. Broadway, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229

Information provided to TVL by:
Mauch Chunk Events