An Independent Celebration
Friends we’ve got amazing news: the Roosevelt Island Film Festival (RIFF) is back for from June 20–22 in NYC and June 26–29 on Roosevelt Island! Dedicated to uplifting both American and international indie filmmakers, RIFF brings together shorts, features, documentaries, and plenty of tram‑side camaraderie.
What’s on the Reel
Here’s a taste of the flicks and fabulous lineup:
- Shorts Block 1 (June 26, 7:30 pm) – Featuring “Extradition”, “Nuno”, “Don’t Forget to Say Goodbye” and others.
- Feature Block 3 (June 27, 7:30 pm) – Screening If That Mocking Bird Don’t Sing.
- Feature Blocks 4–7 broadcast across the weekend—including Village Keeper (June 28, 11 am) and Ebenezer the Traveler (June 28, 5:30 pm).
- Documentary Feature & Shorts – Blocks 9–12 showcase titles like Go To Izzy (June 29, 11 am), Poise, The Other Moon Goddess, Crawl Space, and more.
Every screening includes a lively Q&A session, and Documentary Short Block 2 runs June 27 at 6:30 pm. To see the full lineup go here.
Island & City Connections
RIFF kicks off with three days of panels, mixers, and networking events in NYC (June 20–22), at venues like Red Line Studios, AMAS Theatre, and MCS Studios. Then, the festival brings the magic home to Roosevelt Island, with screenings at Main Street Theatre & Dance Alliance (548 Main Street) and after‑parties at Grannie Annie’s (425 Main Street).
Don’t miss the Closing Party and Awards Night on June 29 at Grannie Annie’s and Burgerology in NYC.
Meet the Festival Founder
RIFF’s heart is founder and president Toni Vitale, a New York born actor–director–producer who launched RIFF to spotlight independent voices. She brings years of industry flair and genuine passion for discovering hidden gems in cinema.
Judges with Island Heart
This year’s jury panel is nothing short of impressive:
- Karim Azimi, festival veteran and multi‑award winner
- Rodney Ferrer, Brooklyn‑based filmmaker whose Bobby Mortal earned top honors at RIFF 2024
- Matthew Corozine, co‑founder of MCS Theatre in NYC
- Jake King, up‑and‑coming film editor, tech director, and storyteller
Why It Matters
RIFF isn’t just a series of screenings, it’s a hub for community-building, storytelling, and creative connection. In a place like Roosevelt Island, where art and nature meet daily, RIFF offers us a chance to gather, share perspectives, celebrate global voices and shine a spotlight on local talent.
Getting Tickets & Staying in the Know
Tickets are live now for individual blocks typically $8–$15, with passes covering feature blocks and shorts series. Get you tickets here!.
Want updates, trailers, or submission info? Head to rooseveltislandfilmfestival.com, and follow @rooseveltislandfilmfest on Instagram.
Dear neighbors: Let’s pack that theatre with enthusiasm for our island, and celebrate stories that reflect our world. Whether you’re a filmmaker, film lover, or just curious, RIFF invites all of us to connect on screen and off.
See you at the movies,
– Ericka
On naming, neglect, and the quiet work that keeps things standing
About twenty years ago, there was Harbor Police activity near the water, just south of the subway entrance. At the time, no one really thought of it as a pier, though technically there was a small boardwalk there. Of course it wasn’t a pier. A pier implies intention.
