Berkshire International Film Festival 2021 is on and in-person! This year’s event will present over 60 films, features legendary actor Alfre Woodard, and an extra day. September 9th to the 13th, in Great Barrington and Pittsfield, MA.

Berkshire International Film Festival (BIFF) is back, after a year’s pandemic hiatus, to celebrate its 15th anniversary in 2021. The annual event brings the best in independent films and filmmakers to the Berkshires every year. These include independent features, documentaries, short films, animation, and family films.

Typically held late May, covid-19 concerns saw this year’s festivities moved to September.

BIFF 2021 event promises 22 documentaries, 20 narrative features, and 18 short films from directors around the world. In fact, 20 countries will be represented this year, including Australia, Israel, Kosovo, China, Greece, and Norway.

The festival attracts not just large crowds but also filmmakers, celebrities, and other industry professionals. Creators who come to premier films, participate in seminars, give talks, and attend screenings.

In addition to the extra day on the schedule, BIFF 2021 will also include in-person screenings, drive-ins, and virtual events.

BIFF 2021 Highlights

One of the biggest attractions of this year’s festival is the attendance of acting legend, Alfre Woodard.

Alfre Woodard, decorated veteran of film, theater, television, and spoken word, is one of the most versatile actors of her generation. She has won or been nominated for nearly every entertainment industry award possible, including a record 17 Emmy nominations. The event includes a talk with the actor, followed by a tribute screening. Saturday, September 11, 7pm at The Mahaiwe.

Opening night will feature a screening of “Bernstein’s Wall,” exploring Leonard Bernstein’s life, career, and legacy. The film is a wonderful choice to kick off the festival, given Bernstein’s long-time presence in the Berkshires through Tanglewood. The screening is scheduled for , Thursday, September 9th, is set to 7pm at The Mahaiwe and preceded by cocktails and dinner at St. James Place, 5pm-6:30pm.

Closing night will see a screening of “Tom Petty, Somewhere You Feel Free,” which offers a unique and unvarnished look at the beloved musician. The film dives deep into 1993-1995, as the artist develops his emotionally raw “Wildflowers” album. Director Mary Wharton and Executive Producer Dan Braun will be in attendance for a Q&A after the movie. Sunday, September 12th, 7pm, at The Mahaiwe Theater.

Berkshire International Film Festival 2021

September 9th to the 13th, 2021

The festival takes place at various locations in and around both Pittsfield and Great Barrington, MA. Festival days include screenings of feature length films and shorts at local theaters. Special events include in-depth talks with noted screen writers and producers about the film-making process.

All venues are less than a half an hour’s drive from our Berkshires bed and breakfast, which attending a snap. Spend the day attending screenings and events, follow it up with dancing under the BIFF tent, then back to your home away from home at The Inn at Stockbridge. The perfect day!

Those who purchased passes for last year’s event can use them this year. Consequently, the number of passes available for 2021 are limited and tickets will go fast. Don’t despair if you are unable to attend. Certain talks and screenings are going to be available virtually.

Visit biffma.org for the schedule, tickets, and more. You can also follow the festival on Facebook.