A Journey Through the First Two Days of the Vashon Island Film Festival
Arriving on Vashon Island felt like stepping into a film set, where the landscape is a perfect blend of tranquility and creativity. My journey to the Vashon Island Film Festival began with a ferry ride that was more meditative than mundane, as I crossed the waters to this secluded haven of art and storytelling. By the time I reached my Airbnb—a cozy farmhouse that could easily be the backdrop for a coming-of-age indie film — I was already in the festival’s rhythm.
Thursday was all about settling in and letting the island’s charm take over. After unpacking and soaking in the serenity of my surroundings, I dove headfirst into the festival’s offerings, starting with Block 1 of the short films. This first encounter with the festival’s cinematic offerings was a rollercoaster of emotions and styles, each short film offering something uniquely captivating.
Wander to Wonder kicked things off with a whimsical yet dark tale that reminded me of a twisted version of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood. The story of miniature humans trapped in a children’s show set after their creator’s death was both bizarre and mesmerizing, leaving me with a sense of eerie fascination.
Next up was Bob’s Funeral, a personal exploration of family dynamics and grief, directed by and starring Jack Dunphy. The film wove together humor and heartache as it delved into the strange rituals of mourning, making it both touching and relatable.
Crows offered a quieter, more introspective experience. This short film focused on a lonely widow and the crows that turn her garden fountain into a shrine. It was a haunting reflection on solitude and the small ways we seek connection after loss.
Then came The Year of Staring at Noses, a darkly comedic short that started with a light premise—a woman getting a nose job after failing to get cast on The Bachelor—and quickly spiraled into something much darker. Karen Knox’s performance was gripping, the narrative sharp and unsettling.
Finally, “Ripe” closed out the block with a tender LGBTQ+ romance set against the sun-drenched backdrop of a Spanish summer. The film’s delicate portrayal of young love and the beauty of its setting made it a perfect way to end the day’s screenings.
Friday kept the momentum going, starting with another deep dive into the world of short films. I couldn’t shake the sense that each piece was a puzzle, adding to the larger picture of what this festival was all about—a celebration of diversity in storytelling.
A Q & A with Paul Levatino
The highlight of Friday was the West Coast premiere of the documentary Bastards of Soul. This powerful film delves into the meteoric rise of the Dallas band Bastards of Soul and the heartbreaking loss of their charismatic frontman, Chadwick Murray. The documentary captures the raw energy of their performances and the deep bonds within the band, making it a must-see at the festival. I had the pleasure of reviewing this remarkable piece, and you can read my full thoughts here.
As the day drew to a close, I made my way to the highly anticipated Rock To Rock event, an evening specifically curated for the Vashon Island Film Festival. The atmosphere was electric as 90’s Rewind took the stage, knocking out a string of throwback hits that had the crowd dancing and singing along. The band’s energy was infectious, and it was clear that everyone—from festival-goers to island locals—was having a blast. It was the kind of night that reminds you of the simple joy of live music, especially when it taps into the nostalgia of an era that so many of us hold dear.
Saturday morning has dawned, and the festival is in full swing. Today, I’m planning to dive into Block 2 of the shorts—there’s still so much to explore, so many stories waiting to be discovered. Afterward, I’ll be shifting gears to catch some of the narrative features I’ve been eager to see: Inheritance, Black Dog, Resynator, and Griffin in Summer.
The day will culminate in a Saturday night soiree, which promises to be as stylish and spirited as the films themselves. And with Sunday bringing the festival to a close with the Red Bicycle Awards, I know the next two days will be as unforgettable as the first.
Vashon Island has cast its spell, and the Vashon Island Film Festival has proven itself to be a celebration of both cinematic and human connection. The films, the events, the people—everything here is part of a narrative that I’m thrilled to be experiencing. Stay tuned for more as this incredible weekend unfolds.
– Alan Motley (@alanmotley)
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