By Mikaila Bluew
Bay City Michigan’s streets quiet down as the Hell’s Half Mile Film and Music festival concludes until next year.
This annual event took place last weekend across downtown Bay City. Some of this year’s venues included the Historic Jefferson Building, So Good! Gallery, the Masonic Temple, and Delta’s planetarium, along with many other local businesses that joined in on the party.
“There aren’t really a lot of film and music festivals,” said Hell’s Half Mile founder and director Alan LaFave. “They’ll have some film festivals that will have a music component, or some entertainment at parties, but we try to integrate it in a much bigger way.”
With an array of film screenings ranging from documentary to narrative and musical performances by JW Francis, Bluhm, Liquid Mike, Waltzer, and Sungaze this year’s festival did just that.
The final day began with an engaging Filmmaker Panel at Populace Coffee, providing a unique opportunity to hear insights from industry professionals. Over the weekend filmmakers from around the globe showcased their work and concluded Sunday night with a Post Fest Chill and Audience Award ceremony.
Every year offers special guest appearances and a new variety of filmmakers and musicians that make this event fresh and fun. Prior years have included workshops for aspiring filmmakers, and Q&A sessions with talent. Each festival is a one-of-a-kind and lively experience where there is something for everyone.
“We are an all-volunteer festival so it’s a lot to do for a lot of people who are just passionate about bringing something good to their community,” said Lafave.
Hell’s Half Mile offers not only a space for up-and-coming artists to collaborate and promote their work, but also build up Bay City’s local businesses and create a community. If you were unable to attend this year’s celebration, the festival will return in September of next year with a unique lineup of artists and filmmakers. For more events presented by Hell’s Half Mile, and information on next year’s festival visit hhmfest.org.
