Telluride Film Festival
The Show is Telluride Film Festival. It happens every Labor Day Weekend in the Telluride mountains and has for almost 40 years and it usually sells out. With more than 50 programs screened during the festival weekend and the most popular repeating at different venues, Telluride Film offers an experience to be remembered. Choices exist to meet the budgets and interests of all.
There are five different pass options available for the Telluride Film Festival, the first being the most basic and affordable. This is the Cinephile pass. At $390, this gains admission to unique and unrepeated programs, as well as new and other special programs, including the Labor Day lunch. At $580, the Acme pass is a step up and gives the option of exclusive admission to the Chuck Jones’ venue, Labor Day picnic, and two bonus choices in the Town Park. Above that is the Festival Pass at $780, and this includes unlimited choices in film, first-choice seating, and admission to the picnic and Opening Night Feed.
Beyond that is the Patron Pass. With admission to all events and sites, it also grants priority seating in all cases, as well as the opportunity to sit as a guest of honor at the Patron’s Brunch and the Patron’s Preview. A special Sponsor Pass is also in existence, which includes all Patron Pass benefits, plus a few unmentioned perks. This can only be obtained through the Development Director.
There are three existing year-round theaters in the town of Telluride, at the Sheridan Opera House, the Nugget Theater, and then also the Palm Theater. However, six more are re birthed each year to make the Telluride Film Festival the tradition that it is. And The Show does also exist outdoors in open-air theaters in Town Park and the Elks Park. Many big options exist in the small town of Telluride.
And big is not just about the variety of viewing locations. Major films that have touched the hearts of many international audiences have debuted right in Telluride at Telluride Film Festival: BLUE VELVET, STRANGER THAN PARADISE, EL MARIACHI, CROUCHING TIGER, HIDDEN DRAGON, EL NORTE, TALK TO HER, BOWLING FOR COLUMBINE, BROKEBACK MOUNTAIN, CAPOTE, THE LAST KING OF SCOTLAND, JUNO, THE DIVING BELL AND THE BUTTERFLY, SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, THE LAST STATION, UP IN THE AIR, and THE KING’S SPEECH are just a few.
The surprise of the filmmakers and artists in attendance is also a juicy treat. In the past Francis Ford Coppola, Penelope Cruz, Meryl Streep, Laura Linney, Bill Murray, and others have made appearances. You might see them strolling the streets or watch them be introduced at one of the Telluride Film events. Of course, you never know who might be there until you show up.
Program guides are available at the hospitality booth during the festival, and can also be downloaded online when the festival begins. Lodging can be problematic, so plan hotels in advance. Transportation is unnecessary once you arrive. The entire town is walkable. September introduces fall in full-force, so get ready for the changing of the aspens, autumn rain showers, and chilly evening temperatures that may surprise you. It’s best to also bring a layer or two so that you are most comfortable in the venue when it’s time for The Show.