Tribeca Film Festival Heading for the Drive-In
Times are bad. Hopefully, things change for the better in some ways as a result. Marketing, entertainment, life…it’s all going to look different. In some cases, different is welcome. Which takes me to the Tribeca Film Festival.
The Tribeca Film Festival has become a cultural phenomenon since 2002. Launched by Tribeca Enterprises, and founded by a trio including Robert DeNiro, the TFF launched in the aftermath of 9/11 to recognize independent filmmakers and bring some life and energy back to the Tribeca area. It took off quickly and never looked back, quickly becoming a hotspot for celebs, and a signal for pop culture. Annual attendees climbed into the millions, with revenues similarly soaring. It also won kudos for infusing dollars and business back to the neighborhood.
Despite its philanthropic DNA, the TFF always felt a little outside the reach of “mainstream America.” Fashionable, fabulous and, yes, more than a little famous. So, there was something refreshing to read about the well-known Festival’s latest plans given COVID-19: Drive-in's.
It feels like the type of thing that should happen as a result of these times. A longtime bastion for NY and global elite now heading to the nostalgic parking lots of everytown America? Hell, if the point is exposure for independent filmmakers, why not embrace a louder megaphone?
This Variety story lays out all the details including how Tribeca Enterprises will combine forces with longtime sponsor AT&T and technology partner IMAX to make it happen.
TE co-founder captured a sentiment that resonated with me:
“It’s in our DNA to bring people together through the arts, showing strength and resiliency when the world needs it the most,” said Tribeca Enterprises and Tribeca Film Festival co-founder and CEO Jane Rosenthal. “At a time when people are eager to connect and convene again after months-long social distancing, we’re taking the spirit of Tribeca around the country by creating a safe environment where audiences can come together and enjoy the sense of connection found by going to the movies.”
Just how many drive-ins will open and carry this “Drive-in Series” is still very much TBD, but I like to spirit of it all. Nostalgia, community and new entertainment in new venues — all through a new lens.
