MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

WIFF announces its film lineup

Movie lovers will soon have plenty to enjoy on Windsor's riverfront with the return of WIFF Under the Stars — the Windsor International Film Festival's popular summer series of drive-in style showings.

From Aug. 20 to Sept. 11, the Riverfront Festival Plaza will again serve as a venue for people to park their cars and watch iconic films while gathering in a safe manner.

“It was clear from our audience last summer that people loved it,” said Vincent Georgie, WIFF executive director, in an announcement in downtown Windsor on Wednesday morning.

“People in Windsor love the movies. And on top of it, you love our downtown waterfront and just a good night out with friends and family.”

Like last year, the movies will be presented in themed double features. For example, opening night on Aug. 20 will offer two Indiana Jones flicks.

“We're doing a James Bond night, a John Candy night — so many fun films,” Georgie said.

There'll also be a Martin Scorsese night, a Brad Pitt night, a Christopher Nolan night, a hockey movie night, and an '80s horror night.

WIFF had some fun of their own in deciding the pairings: Sept. 3 will offer two disaster-in-water movies, Titanic and Jaws.

“I apologize in advance (for the pairing), but we thought it would be kind of hilarious,” Georgie said.

Sept. 4 will be a “Secret Cinema” double feature: The titles won't be disclosed beforehand. Attendees will have to take a risk and find out at the event.

“We're not telling you what we're showing until we're about to play,” Georgie said with glee. “So roll the dice ... but trust me, it is going to be worth it.”

Along with the double feature nights, there'll be morning and matinee showings of family-friendly films and animated classics, such as Pixar's Wall-e on Aug. 22 and Disney's The Little Mermaid on Aug. 29.

Windsor Mayor Drew Dilkens joined Georgie on Wednesday morning, announcing that the City of Windsor is again helping WIFF by waiving fees for use of the Riverfront Festival Plaza.

“We want to support this type of initiative, because we know how much our community values it.”

Georgie and Dilkens were also joined by Lisa Macleod, Ontario's Minister of Heritage, Sport, Tourism and Culture Industries. She announced the provincial government is providing $94,000 in funding to WIFF this year.

“That's almost double our contribution of the last two years, because we recognize the hard work that you're doing,” Macleod said.

Georgie thanked Dilkens and Macleod for their support, and also thanked LIUNA! 625, the presenting sponsor of WIFF Under the Stars.

Rob Petroni, LIUNA! 625 business manager, praised WIFF for providing “a fun, engaging, and enriching cultural experience.”

WIFF Under the Stars was first conceived and carried out last year as a way for WIFF to offer cinematic entertainment while observing COVID-19 prevention measures.

The pandemic forced WIFF to cancel both the 2020 and 2021 editions of its regular indoor festival, which typically takes place in early November.

COVID -19 rules will continue in WIFF Under the Stars:

■ All attendees must be in a vehicle.

■ Restrooms and concessions will be open, but users will be asked to follow measures such as physical distancing.

Tickets must be bought in advance. Online purchases can be made via windsorfilmfestival.com/underthestars. Tickets are also being sold in person at the Downtown Windsor Farmers Market.

Morning and matinee showings cost $20 per vehicle, double feature nights cost $40 per vehicle.