Start planning your viewing experience for this year’s must-see film fest offerings!
It’s hard to believe, but the 44th Annual Breckenridge Film Festival is just around the corner. From September 19-22, 2024, Breck Film is excited to host an always-diverse and exciting array of films and events – plus a few surprises thrown in!
This year we’re excited to welcome renowned directors, producers, and others who help bring movie magic to life – including some of Colorado’s own home-grown talent. Read on to learn more about the Breck Film Fest’s full 2024 lineup.
Opening Night – Casa Bonita Mi Amor!
7:30pm, September 19 | The Riverwalk Center
The festival kicks off with “Casa Bonita Mi Amor!” directed by Arthur Bradford. This feature documentary follows South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone as they attempt to revive Denver’s legendary Casa Bonita restaurant.
It’s a hilarious and heartfelt journey that blends nostalgia, entrepreneurship, and community spirit. Fans of South Park, Colorado history buffs, and anyone who appreciates offbeat Americana will find this opening night selection a perfect appetizer for the cinematic feast to come.
For Thrill Seekers – Fly
7:30pm, September 20 | The Riverwalk Center
For thrill-seekers and those fascinated by extreme sports, “Fly” is an absolute must-see. Directed by Christina Clusiau and Shaul Schwarz, this feature documentary spent seven years following three couples in the world of BASE jumping.
It’s a raw, intimate look at the human drive to push limits and find meaning in risk. The breathtaking visuals and emotional depth will appeal to adventure documentary fans and anyone interested in exploring the psychology of extreme sports.
Spotlight on Drama – Magpie
7:30pm, September 21 | The Riverwalk Center
“Magpie,” directed by Sam Yates and produced by Daisy Ridley (of Star Wars fame), offers a nuanced look at the entertainment industry’s impact on family dynamics.
This drama will resonate with fans of character-driven narratives and those interested in the behind-the-scenes realities of show business. Ridley’s involvement both on and off-screen adds an intriguing layer for cinephiles curious about actors transitioning to production roles.
Colorado Filmmakers Shine
The festival continues its tradition of showcasing local talent – and this year, Breck is showing some premier films by the growing number of Colorado-born filmmakers.
“Feel It All” by Drew Petersen
1:30pm, September 20 | The Breckenridge Theater
This Summit County local’s journey from suicidal depression to ultramarathon glory is more than a sports documentary. It’s a powerful exploration of mental health and resilience that will inspire anyone facing personal challenges.
“Fracking the System” by Brian Hedden
1pm, September 22 | The Breckenridge Theater
An eye-opening look at climate activism and oil industry tactics in Colorado. This investigative documentary is essential viewing for environmentalists and those interested in local politics and grassroots movements.
“Frozen Dead Guy Days” by Mike Scalisi
5pm, September 20 | The Breckenridge Theater
A quirky short doc about one of Colorado’s most bizarre annual celebrations. It’s a delightful slice of weird Americana that will charm fans of offbeat cultural events and local traditions.
“Legacy” by Steve Vanderheide
4:30pm, September 21 | The Breckenridge Theater
This world premiere explores the mental health crisis in Colorado’s agricultural communities. It’s a sensitive, important look at a often-overlooked aspect of rural life that will resonate with anyone connected to farming communities or interested in the challenges facing America’s heartland.
“Mirasol, Looking at the Sun” by Ben Knight
This short documentary delves into water scarcity issues affecting multi-generational farming communities in Pueblo, Colorado. It’s a timely, beautifully shot film that will appeal to environmentalists, policy wonks, and anyone interested in the intersection of culture, agriculture, and climate change.
4:30pm, September 21 | The Breckenridge Theater
Climate Change in Focus
The festival’s commitment to environmental issues is evident in its closing night double feature, “The Fight For Our Planet”:
“Chasing Time” by Sarah Keo and Jeff Orlowski-Yang
5:30pm, September 22 | The Riverwalk Center
A sequel to the Oscar-nominated “Chasing Ice,” this short doc showcases the Extreme Ice Survey’s compelling visual evidence of climate change. It’s a must-see for environmental documentary enthusiasts and anyone seeking to understand the tangible impacts of global warming.
“Escape from Extinction: Rewilding” by Matthew R. Brady
5:30pm, September 22 | The Riverwalk Center
This feature doc explores innovative conservation efforts around the globe. It’s an inspiring look at cutting-edge environmental science that will appeal to nature lovers, conservationists, and those seeking hope in the face of ecological challenges.
Hidden Gems
Don’t overlook these intriguing selections throughout the festival:
“Here to Climb” by Annie Sundberg and Ricki Stern
4pm, September 20 | The Riverwalk Center
Following champion sport climber Sasha DiGiulian, this documentary explores themes of perseverance, community, and pushing personal limits. It’s perfect for climbing enthusiasts and anyone interested in stories of personal growth through sport.
“Max Dagan” by Terre Weisman
1pm, September 22 | The Eclipse Theater
This drama, starring Rob Morrow and Michael Madsen, delves into themes of justice, family, and redemption. Fans of character-driven legal dramas will find much to appreciate in this emotionally charged film.
“Porcelain War” by Brendan Bellomo and Slava Leontyev
4:30pm, September 21 | The Eclipse Theater
Winner of the Grand Jury Prize for US Documentary at Sundance, this powerful film follows Ukrainian artists finding beauty amid war. It’s essential viewing for those interested in the intersection of art and conflict, and anyone seeking to understand the human experience of war.
Full Film Schedule
Note: Feature film showing times/locations are subject to change. All times in Mountain Time.
| Film | Director | Genre | Day | Time | Screening Location |
| Casa Bonita Mi Amor! | Arthur Bradford | Feature Documentary | 9/19 | 7pm | The Riverwalk Center |
| Chasing Time | Sarah Keo, Jeff Orlowski-Yang | Short Documentary | 9/22 | 5:30pm | The Riverwalk Center |
| Escape from Extinction: Rewilding | Matthew R. Brady | Feature Documentary | 9/22 | 5:30pm | The Riverwalk Center |
| Fly | Christina Clusiau, Shaul Schwarz | Feature Adventure | 9/20 | 7:30pm | The Riverwalk Center |
| Here to Climb | Annie Sundberg, Ricki Stern | Feature Documentary | 9/20 | 4pm | The Riverwalk Center |
| Magpie | Sam Yates | Feature Drama | 9/21 | 7:30pm | The Riverwalk Center |
| Max Dagan | Terre Weisman | Feature Drama | 9/22 | 1pm | The Eclipse Theater |
| Porcelain War | Brendan Bellomo, Slava Leontyev | Feature Documentary | 9/21 | 4:30pm | The Eclipse Theater |
| 147 | Maggie Hartmans, Cam Hartmans | Short Documentary | 9/20 | 1:30pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
| Feel It All | Drew Petersen | Short Documentary | 9/20 | 1:30pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
| Fracking the System | Brian Hedden | Feature Documentary | 9/22 | 1pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
| Frozen Dead Guy Days | Mike Scalisi | Short Documentary | 9/20 | 5pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
| Legacy | Steve Vanderheide | Short Documentary | 9/21 | 4:30pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
| Mirasol, Looking at the Sun | Megan Sweeney | Short Documentary | 9/21 | 4:30pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
| Way the Wind Blows | Megan Sweeney | Short Documentary | 9/22 | 1pm | The Breckenridge Theater |
Find Times, Tickets, and More Online
While the films are the stars, the festival also offers panel discussions, Q&As with filmmakers, and networking events. These provide unique opportunities to dive deeper into the stories and connect with the creative minds behind the films.
The festival offers several pass options to suit different preferences and budgets, from the all-access Peak 10 Pass to individual screening tickets. Films will be shown at various venues around Breckenridge, including the Riverwalk Center, Eclipse Theater, and Breckenridge Theater.
For full schedule details and to purchase passes, visit Breck Film Festival’s website – and get plenty more information on what to expect throughout the festival this year.