Posted on September 6, 2018

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE 

 

CALGARY FILM WELCOMES NEW ARTISTIC DIRECTOR

 

CALGARY, AB – Today the Calgary International Film Festival announced its new Artistic Director. After a global search, Calgary Film will welcome Brian Owens in the newly created position, beginning October 16, 2018.

“The creation of the new Artistic Director role is a key part of our strategic plan, and we’ve been planning this exciting addition to our team for the past two years,” said Stephen Schroeder, Executive Director of the Calgary International Film Festival. “In keeping with our mission of curating the most innovative and compelling films and creating remarkable festival experiences, our new Artistic Director Brian Owens will bring increased focus and creativity to the entire festival. We are thrilled to have him join us.”

For the last ten years, Brian Owens was the Artistic Director of the Nashville Film Festival. Under his leadership, the audience of that festival doubled. Before that, he was the founder and executive director of the Indianapolis International Film Festival, which he launched in 2004.

“I am looking forward to my new role at Calgary Film,” said Owens. “One of my goals will be to help grow the festival, not just in audience numbers, but in impact and influence on the city's culture and film industry.”

Owens will be in attendance at this year’s festival.

 

Now in its 19th year, the Calgary International Film Festival has grown from 58 films screened for an audience of 8,000 in its first year to 178 films selected this year for an anticipated audience of more than 40,000. The Calgary International Film Festival is a non-profit organization and registered charity, with 13 permanent employees (six are full-time), including the new Artistic Director.

THE FESTIVAL BEGINS WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19

Tickets are selling fast at calgaryfilm.com, where single tickets to all films and ticket bundles are now on sale. The Eau Claire Box Office will open on September 14. The 19th Annual Calgary International Film Festival features 178 films from 46 countries. This year’s festival runs from September 19 – September 30.

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For more information or to book interviews contact:
Nadine bibi, Marketing Director, The Calgary International Film Festival
nadine.bibi@calgaryfilm.com
403.452.4845

About the Calgary International Film Festival

The Calgary International Film Festival (Calgary Film) is a 12-day showcase of up to 200 multi-genre feature and short films from Canada and over 40 other countries. The festival hosts gala events, screenings, special presentations, and a Behind the Screen series that emphasizes unique and exciting ways for filmmakers and fans to interact.

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