If you love out east and you love film there is simply nothing better than Hamptons International Film Festival.
It was founded to celebrate Independent film—long, short, fiction, and documentary—and to introduce a unique and varied spectrum of international films and filmmakers to our audiences. The festival is committed to exhibiting films that express fresh voices and differing global perspectives, with the hope that these programs will enlighten audiences, provide invaluable exposure for filmmakers, and present inspired entertainment for all.
The weekend hosted drive-ins, as well as a few screenings at Southampton Art Center. This season most things were virtual, such as some splendid Conversations. The time-honored festival tradition continued online with such notables as Kate Winslet and Leslie Odom Jr.
David Nugent, Artistic Director of HamptonsFilm, stated, “This has been a signature program of ours since 1993 when Martin Scorsese and Steven Spielberg sat down and had a surprise first conversation. We have had so many great filmmakers and actors and activists come throughout the years to be a part of this program. And we are thrilled to continue it this year with these wonderful participants. Thank you for coming and checking us out and enjoy.”
For those coming out East, many stayed at the wonderful Southampton Inn. In the heart of the village, you will find this wonderful property that offers so much more than a place to lay your head at night. The moment you walk into the spacious lobby bountiful light shines on you. The comfort of rooms is exquisite. Quarters have an airy quality and are symbolic of the lovely beach just around the corner. Décor is pleasant to the eye and perfect for maximum relaxation. The large layout is great for families or for when you are back from a day out and getting ready for a splendid dinner in the village. Best of all right now sleeping quarters are being thoroughly cleaned by management to meet safety measurements at this time. The owner has taken great steps for her guests and staff by having each room disinfected with an industrial UV light system in between visitors.
For dinner before the big drive-in visitors loved Union Sushi Steak. Enjoying an exquisite meal here is a moment you will always embrace. The lively restaurant in the heart of Southampton provides impeccable dishes and a sensational atmosphere. With outdoor seating options and indoor tables secured in water-proof curtains, you will find yourself at a dinner made for royalty. A feast fit for kings is served at this delightful restaurant. The meal starts with top-grade staff welcoming you. Even behind masks, you see the smile in their eyes. Tables are spread out appropriately in this exquisite room that resembles refined paintings hanging in The Met. Artful design is everywhere – in the food and the décor.
Start a meal with a fantastic appetizer such as Bao Bun with BBQ cut pork loin and crispy onions; or have a salad such as Classic Wedge with crisp bacon, heirloom tomatoes, and Danish Bleu Cheese dressing. Entrees are sublime. What will just blow your mind away is their incredible USDA prime steaks and cuts. Hands down this is the best steak you will have in the Hamptons – perhaps on the entire east coast.
Hamptons Film Festival is a landmark event and with it comes the beauty only the region can offer.
