One hundred and forty-one films from 42 countries in 27 languages split into 32 blocks with six workshops: Hobnobben Film Festival returns to Cinema Center from Oct. 3-6 and has something for everyone.

Through feature-length and short films, you’ll be treated to a rich variety of themes and genres with an emphasis on diverse storytelling. 

Hobnobben Film Festival can be enjoyed in-person at Cinema Center, 437 E. Berry St., or virtually. But you get so much more value from really being there with workshops, question-and-answer sessions, receptions, and networking events. 

Tickets are available a few different ways. Opening day passes for Thursday, Oct. 3, are $15, while Friday, Saturday, and Sunday are $30 each with access to all screenings. You can also purchase a four-day, VIP pass for $150 and a VIP Deluxe pass for $200 that includes some extras, like a shirt, poster, and popcorn.

With 32 different blocks of films curated by genre and/or topic, and you can purchase a ticket to any of these for $10.

Streaming access is also available for those out-of-town, unable to get to the Cinema Center, or for anyone who wants to rewatch Hobnobben screenings. 

Purchase your tickets and passes at hobnobben.org. 

Push for independent film

Hobnobben Film Festival co-chairs Alix Watson, Amanda Hille, and Christi Hille spoke excitedly about what we can look forward to this year. 

The festival fosters a sense of community among movie-lovers by encouraging conversations around screenings. How often do you discuss the movie you just watched with fellow audience members? 

Cinema Center is actively pushing for independent film to become as much of a community-enriching activity as live music, theater, or dance. 

Take opening night as an example: A reception starting at 6 p.m. offers catering and drinks before showing 10 short films and one feature, all of which are created by Indiana filmmakers. 

The opening night coming-of-age feature, Last Days of Summer, is the debut of Indianapolis filmmaker Alex Rodgers. 

Then, on closing night, catch Fort Wayne filmmaker Darren Dag Hunt’s documentary, This Town Rocked, detailing Fort Wayne’s punk scene in the 1980s and ’90s. 

If this topic interests you, be sure to check out Party Queens at 4:30 p.m. on Saturday, a documentary depicting one Swedish musician’s efforts to create a new heavy-metal breed of chickens. 

Learn while networking

Filmmakers as well as film-lovers are welcome all weekend long. 

To Watson, “filmmaker” is an umbrella term for creative people involved in making movies; anyone from directors and actors to editors, composers, and audio techs. 

Local filmmakers should take advantage of Hobnobben’s exclusive workshops as educational experiences and networking opportunities. 

Of note to local musicians working in film is the workshop discussing sync licensing and how to communicate with your film’s composer. Hosted by Eric Salazer in the Spectator Lounge, filmmakers are encouraged to attend. This workshop takes place on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 2:30-3:45 p.m.  

Something for all

Not a filmmaker? Or, maybe you’ve never seen independent, international, or short films before? No worries, you are more than encouraged to check out the selection of screenings. 

The staff at Cinema Center is happy to recommend a block of films just for you. Let them know which movies and genres you like, and you’ll be suggested a block or two. 

Horror movie aficionados may perk up on Saturday, Oct. 5, from 7:15-8:30 p.m. During that block, you can enjoy 10 films in the Saturday Night Scaries block, including Glamping, the tale of a luxurious Airbnb getaway turned sinister. 

On Sunday, Oct. 6, from 1-3 p.m., a film block called Embracing the Spectrum of Life will present seven short films preceding a panel discussion. 

These narrative and documentary films are centered on mental and physical disabilities. They “explore the full spectrum of human experience, highlighting the importance of connection and inclusion for everyone.”

Hobnobben screens diverse stories and films while adhering to a mission of accessibility and diversity. 

Only 26 percent of film festivals have a woman in a position of power, so Hobnobben’s female-majority team is a standout in the industry. 

As such, films included this year are sure to highlight people of color, the queer community, seniors, non-Western, and disabled voices. 

Storytellers that typically fall in the margins of the film industry are in full, sparkling spotlight at Hobnobben Film Festival. 

There truly is a feature or short for everyone at Hobnobben. 

Support local, independent filmmaking and grab your tickets today.