The 47th Ann Arbor Film Festival explores “the new world of independent cinema," taking place March 24 - 29th. With 33 film screenings, daily free events, educational opportunities and multiple world premieres, adventure-seeking audiences will have ample opportunities to experience the full realm of independent cinema.

This year's Opening Night Gala, Tuesday March 24th, takes place from 6 – 8pm in the Grand Foyer of the historic Michigan Theater. The festivities kick off with live music, open bar, and catering from local favorites. Following the director's opening remarks, some of this year's most memorable short films in competition will screen starting at 8:30pm.

Over 125 films in competition from 20 countries will compete for $20,000 in awards at the 47th Ann Arbor Film Festival. Covering all lengths and genres of independent and experimental film, this year's festival explores a handful of resonant themes, including: the frontline battle for Fair Use in RiP: A Remix Manifesto, existential dilemmas in the Unexplored Territories program, evolving definitions of home and identity with You Are Here, strong female voices rising above crisis in Terra Firma, and utopian goals gone awry in Beyond the New World.

Special presentations at the 47th AAFF include a live multimedia presentation by legendary culture-jammer Mark Hosler of Negativland, a double-retrospective tribute to the late Bruce Conner, one of the most influential filmmakers and artists of the 20th century, and the ever-surprising and animated Craig Baldwin joins us to present his film, “Mock Up On Mu.”

The founder of the AAFF, George Manupelli, is also making a special appearance this year. On Thursday, March 26th, he will give a free public lecture in the Michigan Theater with Penny W. Stamps series, followed by a screening of his avant-garde classic "Cry Dr. Chicago."

For full program details, advance tickets and to start exploring this year's "new world of independent cinema", please visit: http://47.aafilmfest.org/