The calendar is so jammed with film festivals, I seriously think that the week between Christmas and New years is likely the only one in which a festival doesn’t occur. Then again, there are probably a few on that week, too. The point is, what makes these festivals special? How are filmmakers and attendees to choose? Well, one way is by looking into how the various fests differ and no, this has not suddenly become a film blog. It’s just that the Florida Film Festival has figured out a way to single itself out. Can you guess how? That’s right…food!

The opening weekend of the Florida Film Festival (FFF) held at the Enzian Theater in Winter Park (a suburb of Orlando) is dedicated to film, food & wine and this year’s theme was Flavors of the South: Grits, Grace & Gravy. I was honored to have been asked to help organize the food part of the weekend and host a luncheon panel chock-a-block with James Beard Foundation award winners. In fact, I was the only one on the panel not in possession of one of those wonderful little medals.

As you can see from the above-linked main food, film, wine main page, there were loads of events to attend. Opening night included more pork and Maker’s Mark than you could shake a stick at, something the three people in this pic didn’t mind one bit.

L to R: IFC's Alison Willmore, your author and Chef John Currence enjoy the copious pork and bourbon on offer at the FFF opening night party.

Continue reading Pig Ears, Grits and Streetcar: The Florida Film Festival Brings The Tasty & The Art