Flint documentary to headline Capital City Film Festival

The Capital City Film Festival is celebrating its 10th anniversary as it returns to Lansing from April 9-18.

The annual festival celebrates artists from around the world by curating outstanding multimedia experiences for the local community and showcasing an eclectic mix of independent films, live music, interactive exhibits and more. And a sneak peek at the lineup for 2020 certainly promises to entertain.

“Flint: Who Do You Trust” by Scottish director Anthony Baxter will be the headlining film for this year’s film festival, which organizers have affectionately dubbed CCFF 10. The film, which makes its global premiere March 1, is billed as the definitive documentary about one of American’s most infamous pollution disasters.

Acclaimed actor Alec Baldwin narrates the movie, which was filmed over five years and unfolds through the perspectives of Flint’s residents. Emmy award-winning producer Sabrina Gordon, journalist Richard Phinney and scientist-turned-filmmaker Justin Weinstein also assisted Baxter in its highly anticipated production.

And while the full lineup for this year’s festival hasn’t yet been revealed, organizers said the opening film will also include a Michigan connection. “Once Upon a River” — directed by Haroula Rose — will kick off the festival with a story based on the bestselling novel of the same name, written by Michigan native Bonnie Jo Campbell.

That movie takes place in rural Michigan and some characters are from tribal communities. Organizers said the narrative will lead viewers on a theatrical journey that is lovely, but at times simultaneously heartbreaking. Though the film has already made its way around the country, CCFF will serve as its Michigan premiere.

Other announcements were also made for the festival’s 10th anniversary: CCFF will kick off its 2020 Brew & View Series at The Avenue Cafe to get people warmed up for the festival. The first film — “Coming to America” — will be shown Feb. 28, followed by “Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion” March 27. Live music will also be included at both events. The Fortnight Film Contest, CCFF’s competition for teams of amateur, student and professional filmmakers, is now accepting registrations. The contest will begin March 19 with films due April 2. Entries are judged by a panel of filmmakers and film lovers. Top films will be shown at the festival.

Organizers also announced a new poetry project for the festival. The program is designed to engage 20 local poets to respond to the festival’s films and events. A call for poets is open through March 5. 

While some events are free of charge, tickets for most film events are $5 at the door. The opening night feature is $10. Concerts run from $5-15. And all-access passes and patron passes are available for $50 and $100, respectively.

Visit capitalcityfilmfest.com for details — and a full line up — as the festival approaches.