By Ron Evans

The Leavenworth Mountain Film Festival (formerly known as the Leavenworth Film Festival) makes its triumphant return for the first time since the Covid shutdowns. The organizers of the popular event pull out all the stops to provide a one-of-a-kind film festival experience. Red carpets, limos and photo walls are just the beginning. I chatted with LMFF co-founder and curator Rex Flake about the return of the festival.

Talk a bit about the history of the LMFF.

The first annual film festival was held in the spring of 2013. Mastermind Shane Wilder of Icicle TV had a vision of creating a visually stunning event that melded mountain films and performance art. Shane assembled a group of creatives that expanded this idea to become a full celebration for our mountain community. It became a red carpet affair where our Wenatchee Valley locals are the stars! Our mountain culture and community are worthy of any press release. The attendees are the celebrities. And in that first festival, we even had a catwalk running the length of the center aisle to facilitate an intermission fashion show featuring our beautiful local people donning attire from local businesses. It was an instant hit!

Talk about coming back after the Covid-induced break.

LMFF was ready to roll March of 2020 when the world shut down. After that, celebrating just didn’t feel right for a number of years. Filmmakers stopped creating content and people were nervous to congregate. I think the time is ripe now though. Unity, love and acceptance are core aspects of our mountain culture. We have a special thing here in this valley and I believe this event is exactly what we all need right now.

What kinds of films are you showing this year?

All our films share similar themes that highlight human connection with nature. We now call it a “Mountain” Film Festival in the sense that, in this valley, our community is strongly defined by our natural resources, so film selections focus on an aesthetic of human connection with the land. Obvious mountain pursuits like skiing, biking, boating, climbing, hunting and fishing play a big role. But also skateboarding, freediving, sky diving, farming, or even speed-walking films are highlighted. I guess I’d say any artistic expression that involves nature and movement; the way we express our joy by dancing around on this bright blue globe we share. This year will include a little of “all of the above.”

Talk a bit about the selection process - how and where to find the films, who chooses them – and what you’re looking for.

One to 15 minute duration films are solicited worldwide. We definitely give extra points to locally sourced material though. Our official mission is: “Showcasing the best recent short films with a focus on outdoor pursuits and the natural world.” Our most awesome all volunteer committee selects films by virtue of quality and originality that fit this broad agenda. I personally have the most fun programming the selections in an attempt to create a story arc, or maybe better said, a cohesive mood from this motley collection of short films.

Talk about the event itself. Limos, red carpet, screenings – will there be any panels or QnAs connected to the films?

Upon arrival at the venue you can expect a limousine ride around Leavenworth. Step out in pure fashion and strut down the red carpet. Formal wear is encouraged, but anything is acceptable. You do you! Professional photographers capture you and your group at the step-and-repeat backdrop, but be warned, we can’t keep the flies away and paparazzi will be abuzz!

This is an interactive event -not just a passive sit-n-flick experience. Everyone participates in their own way. The intermission show is not to be missed either. In addition to the fashion show I already mentioned, past events have showcased aerialists, professional mountain bike performances, award winning dancers and ensemble bands, operatic vocalists and more! You’ll have to show up on March 22nd to witness what we’ve got in store this year.

Talk about the challenges/rewards of putting together something like this.

Challenges are boring to list. But the reward is having our community come together in a positive environment where we can share happy vibes about the world we live in and the culture we share here in the Wenatchee Valley. Just experiencing this togetherness is highly satisfying to me personally.

How is this festival funded/supported?

Many local businesses have supported LMFF in our past events. This year we are proud to partner with the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce. South and Rhein restaurants are also top sponsors this year. Many others as well.

Is the plan to keep the festival annual? Can we expect a 2026 LFF?

Yes! We’ll be back, baby.

Are you looking for people to get involved – volunteers, etc.? If so, how can folks go about that?

Volunteers are much welcome. If interested please contact:

info@leavenworthfilmfestival.org