Burbank International Film Festival Sets 2016 Lineup

The Burbank International Film Festival is pleased to announce the 2016 program including numerous world premieres, and a record-breaking 750 submissions from independent filmmakers representing more than 31 countries. Now in its 8th year, the Burbank International Film Festival will increase the number of screenings to more than 150 films at the Burbank AMC 16 in Downtown Burbank from Wednesday, September 7th, through Sunday, September 11th, 2016.

Burbank International Film Festival's five-day celebration of independent film brings together emerging international talent, film enthusiasts, and industry leaders to experience the best in contemporary film in Burbank, the Media Capital of the World.

New this year, films will screen exclusively in two theaters at the Burbank AMC 16, one of the highest grossing theaters in the US. The complete screening schedule will be announced in July.

"The Burbank International Film Festival has grown in leaps and bounds, and now in our 8th year, we're breaking every previous record we've set," states Jeff Rector, President and Festival Director. "We are also excited to have expanded our international presence by partnering with festivals from leading filmmaking countries such as China, India, Norway and Australia."

Highlights of the 2016 festival include, with more to be announced shortly:

HISTORY OF CINEMA

The festival is proud to announce special screenings as part of the festival's "History of Cinema" program, which will introduce classic studio films, inspiring young audiences to develop a deeper appreciation for THE ART OF filmmaking. Special screenings include:

30th ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF "ALIENS"

Burbank AMC 16, Saturday, September 10th, 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM

Confirmed cast members set to appear include Michael Biehn (Terminator), Jenette Goldstein (Near Dark), Mark Ralston (NCIS), Ricco Ross (Dr. Who), with additional celebrity guests to be announced. The special screening will be followed by an Intergalactic After-Party as part of "Night of Science Fiction, Fantasy & Horror." The Sci-fi After-Party is included in the price of admission and includes a red carpet event, hosted bar, DJ, dancing, musical performances, and celebrity guests.

30th ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF "TOP GUN"

Burbank AMC 16, Saturday, September 10th, 3:30 PM

Directed by Tony Scott (Days of Thunder), the film tells the story of the US Navy's "Top Gun" elite fighter pilot school with cadets competing to be the best in class. "Top Gun" stars Tom Cruise, Val Kilmer, Kelly McGillis, Tom Skerritt, Meg Ryan, Tim Robbins, and Anthony Edwards. The film is screened courtesy of Paramount Pictures.

FAMILY FRIENDLY PROGRAMMING: THE 45th ANNIVERSARY SCREENING OF "WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY

Burbank AMC 16, Saturday, September 10th, 1:00 PM

"Willy Wonka & The Chocolate Factory" stars Gene Wilder, Jack Albertson, and Peter Ostrum and tells the story of Charlie, a kid from a poor family whose luck changes when he wins a golden ticket to a magical candy factory. Participants who arrive dressed as a character from the film will receive free admission. There will be a prize for best costume, and one lucky attendee will win a "golden ticket." There will also be a special live performance prior to the show. The film is screened courtesy of Warner Bros. Classics.

SPECIAL EVENTS

AFTER-PARTIES

IATSE Soundstage, 2520 W Olive Avenue, Friday, September 9 and Saturday, September 10, 8:30 PM to 2:00 AM

Friday's & Saturday's after-party celebrates Night of Science Fiction Fantasy & Horror, where the Burbank International Film Festival will honor the horror genre with a star-studded red carpet and special screenings. There will be interplanetary intoxications courtesy of 40 Degrees Vodka, a full hosted bar, Monster Energy Drinks, and out-of-this-worLD Entertainment - plus the opportunity to network with filmmakers, special celebrity guests, and cosplayers. Music and dancing will be provided by a guest DJ with special performances by Marston Smith, "The Lord of the Cello."

CLOSING NIGHT DINNER & AWARDS GALA

The Castaway, Sunday, September 11th, 5:30 PM

An awards gala honoring nominated filmmakers and industry icons who have shaped the world of cinema today. This semi-formal event includes red carpet arrivals, honoree presentations, awards show dinner, and cocktail reception. Previous honorees include writer/director Shane Black (Iron Man 3, The Nice Guys), writer/director Carl Gottlieb (Jaws), with special awards including Diversity, Awareness, and The President's Innovation Award.

The Burbank International Film Festival is made possible in part through Downtown Burbank Partnership, Visit Burbank, and the Los Angeles Board of Supervisors through the Los Angeles County Arts Commission. For further information, schedules, and tickets, please visit www.burbankfilmfest.org.

Special room rates at Burbank hotels are available for attendees at http://reservations.visitburbank.com/hotel/list/8324