(above image from AAFF homepage)

The Michigan Theater was morphed yesterday night into a swanky, cocktail lounge-like space for Ann Arbor Film Festival’s Opening Night Reception. Film enthusiasts, directors, fellow press pass wielders and Ann Arborites filled every corner of the theater, as servers passed around trays of hors d’oeuvres provided by local restaurants. A group of young designers who actually work together to throw the infamous weekly Blind Pig party, The Bang, were in charge of the interior transformation, which involved tons of silver stars, an enormous Japanese-style lantern which hung from the center of the ceiling, and a DJ spinning tracks in front of a lit collage of black and white photographs.

We asked executive director of AAFF, Donald Harrison–clad in a Calvin Klein suit–about this year’s film festival in comparison to past years–  he stressed that the film festival was about celebrating the art form of film, particularly through engaging the community. Therefore, many art exhibits and widely anticipated performances, including a live score performance by experimental hip-hop artist Flying Lotus, have been included to diversify the festival. The music video category will also give out its first award this year.

Festival jurors include directors Ben Russell and Tomonari Nishikawa, who will both show their own work at the Juror Presentations. Russell, a veteran of the Ann Arbor festival, expressed that he felt honored to be given the opportunity to be a juror this year. Nishikawa’s experimental work explores the visual perception of movement. When asked what he will look for in judging the films, he replied that he would keep an “open mind”, especially since he has the shared, but nevertheless ambitious, task of evaluating over 170 films.

All in all, the reception was one good party bustling with interesting people such as Paul Saginaw, the co-founder of the beloved Zingerman’s Deli, who was rocking out in a bright red bow-tie and matching shoes. Great company and great food (served on biodegradable plates!). What more can you ask for? Except for more of those delicious mini cupcakes they had from The Cupcake Station.

Below photos from SHEI photographer Mai Truong.

Event photo by Mai Truong