FORT MYERS—The Fort Myers Film Festival presents a new season of T.G.I.M. on October 7, 2024! Join us downtown for a celebration of indie cinema with host Eric Raddatz and judges Sarah Mankowitz, Vito Trupiano, Keri Johnson, and Jason Parrish. Discover the next big films and enjoy an evening of cinematic excellence!

The Fort Myers Film Festival is thrilled to announce the start of its popular indie film series, T.G.I.M., on October 7, 2024, at the Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center in downtown Fort Myers. This engaging monthly event offers film enthusiasts the chance to watch and provide feedback on a selection of short indie films, presented by local celebrity judges.

Event Details:
Date: October 7, 2024
Venue: Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Fort Myers
Doors Open: 6:30 p.m.
Show Begins: 7:00 p.m.
Each T.G.I.M. evening, held on the first Monday of every month from October through March, features host Eric Raddatz. Guests can enjoy a drink, watch thought-provoking films, and engage in lively discussions with special guests, musical acts, and interviews. Tickets are priced at $10 for adults and $8 for students and seniors.

Details regarding each show are as follows (subject to change):
October 7: Host Eric Raddatz with judges Sarah Mankowitz, Vito Trupiano, Keri Johnson and Jason Parrish.
November 4: Host Eric Raddatz with judges Alicia Shannon, Victoria DeMartin, Doug Molloy and Steve Martin.
January 6: Host Eric Raddatz with judges John Biffar, Michelle Tricca, Jerry Chambless and Nya Chambless.
February 3: Host Eric Raddatz with judges Liz Biro, Angela Melvin, Lisa Sbuttoni and Bella Line.
March 3: Host Eric Raddatz with judges Wendy White, Kristen Weardon, Al Kinkle and Amy McCleary.

In addition to the T.G.I.M. series, the 15th Annual Fort Myers Film Festival is scheduled to take place from May 14-18, 2025 so save the dates now. Our FB event page is HERE so invite all your film loving friends. The festival will feature screenings, panels, and events across multiple venues in Fort Myers. Submissions for this year’s festival are now open.

For tickets, information about T.G.I.M., or to submit a film, please visit our website HERE or call 239-333-1933.

Sponsorship Inquiries:
For sponsorship opportunities or to make a donation, please email Eric Raddatz at eric@fortmyersfilmfestival.com.

About the Fort Myers Film Festival:
Founded by Eric Raddatz, the Fort Myers Film Festival celebrates indie films and supports local and international filmmakers. The festival was honored with the 2015 Chrysalis Award for Cultural Achievement.

Sponsors and Partners:
The Fort Myers Film Festival supports Lee County Schools filmmakers, United Way, Raddatz Foundation, SalusCare, Lighthouse of SWFL, ACT, Kimmie’s Recovery Zone, Uncommon Friends, Charity Pros, #KindLee, FODASA, Family Initiative and Golisano’s Children’s Hospital. Sponsored by and partnered with The Sidney & Berne Davis Art Center, Happenings Magazine, Luminary Hotel, The Banyan, Gulfshore Life Magazine, NBC-2, Riverside Realty Group, Hilfiker Missions LLC, City of Fort Myers, Wild About Popcorn, Aux Delices Cafe, Jordan's, Outlier Brands, Downtown House of Pizza, UNIT A and Marcus Jansen Foundation, Starbucks, Babcock Ranch, Pamela Templeton Unlimited, Captiva Spirits, IMAG, J. Bert Davis, Clarity Certified Public Accountants, Kearns Restaurant Group, Black Tie Tuxedoes, City Tavern, Martin Law Firm and the International Olympic Committee supported Fédération Internationale Cinéma Télévision Sportifs.

T.G.I.M. is the most fun film lovers can have in town!

Listen in to Fresh Press with Eric Raddatz podcast every week

Fresh Press with Eric Raddatz

Eric Raddatz recaps things to do in SWFL and sits down with artists, filmmakers and entertainers. Tune in free every week!

SEASON THREE IS FIRE! DON'T MISS:
S3 EP1: Nya Chambless, a rising star who discusses her latest SWFL FILM, is about to enter high school this year!

S3 EP2: SWFL's legendary Dr. William F. Hammond, Ph.D. on environmental consulting, sustainablity and the Calusa Nature Center & Planetarium

S3 EP3: Caryn Clark takes the mic—get ready for the voiceover vibes you’ve been waiting for

S3 EP4: Understanding Behavioral Health: Stacey Cook Talks Challenges and Solutions at SWFL's SalusCare

S3 EP5: From Avengers to Meet & Greets: Keith Wallace Takes Fort Myers by Storm

S3 EP6: Meet Elizabeth Etnoyer – the heart behind SWFL Produce!

S3 EP7: Behind the Curtain: Jason Parrish's Journey at Florida Rep

Brought to you in part by Martin Law Firm. Visit them today for your legal needs!

Support "My Guardian Angel": A Heartfelt Journey of Love and Resilience
Drawing inspiration from a real-life friendship during Nya’s elementary years, “My Guardian Angel” stands as a poignant testament to the power of love and friendship. This short film not only celebrates growth and inclusion but also serves as a beacon for the “Out of Grief Comes Art” movement. Nya transformed her grief into a powerful narrative, weaving together themes of resilience and creativity while fostering awareness of childhood cancer. Through this film, she encourages empathy and understanding in children of all ages, making it a vital story that resonates deeply with audiences. Join us in supporting this inspiring project!

Celebrate Indie Cinema: T.G.I.M. Kicks Off October 7 at the Art Center with Eric RaddatzPhoto byFMFF