Sheila C. Johnson Launches Middleburg Film Festival

April 8, 2013 - PRLog -- MIDDLEBURG, Va.—Sheila C. Johnson announced today the launch of the Middleburg Film Festival on October 25-27, 2013.   The festival presents three days of the best in independent film in a stunning setting, only 30 minutes from Dulles International Airport and one hour from Washington, D.C. A carefully curated selection of narrative and documentary films will screen in an intimate theatre environment, followed by thoughtful and lively conversations with world-renowned filmmakers and actors, film subjects, and opinion leaders. Films will include current festival favorites, premieres, and Academy Award contenders.

Special guests already confirmed include Director Lee Daniels (Precious, The Butler); Vanity Fair special correspondent Maureen Orth; former U.S. Senator and now CEO of the Motion Picture Association of America, Chris Dodd; and Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell.  

The weekend kicks off with a festive “Meet the Artists” dinner where guests can enjoy an evening of casual conversation with distinguished filmmakers and actors.  Other events throughout the festival include panel discussions and conversations with filmmakers, artists, and industry representatives.  The festival will close with a special “Awards Brunch” – recognizing the audience’s favorite films of the festival.

Official festival venues include the soon-to-be-open Salamander Resort & Spa (opening in August 2013), Boxwood Estate Winery, the Hill School, the Middleburg Community Center, the historic Red Fox Inn, and the Middleburg Country Inn.  

Festival attendees will also be able to experience the natural beauty and warm hospitality of Middleburg during morning hikes and horseback rides through the picturesque Piedmont countryside… at late afternoon wine-tastings at local vineyards... strolling through the historic town… and relaxing and engaging with other filmgoers.

“As an avid filmgoer, film producer, and member of the Sundance Institute, I have wanted to bring a film festival to Middleburg for a long time,” explained Sheila Johnson. “I am delighted to be able to announce the beginning of this annual event.”  MFF Executive Director Susan Koch adds, “We hope the Middleburg Film Festival will be distinguished by a carefully selected slate of films, the spectacular setting, and insightful and thoughtful panels and conversations.”

About the Middleburg Film Festival
The Middleburg Film Festival offers three days of independent films in a spectacular setting, only 30 minutes from Dulles International Airport and just one hour from Washington, D.C. A carefully curated selection of narrative and documentary films will screen in an intimate theatre environment, followed by fascinating Q and A’s with world-renowned filmmakers and actors. The films include festival favorites, premieres, and Academy Award contenders. The festival is a non-profit, 501(c)3 organization dedicated to education. For more information on the festival, visit www.middleburgfilmfestival.org.