The Vintage Film Festival

Twenty five years ago (1992), a group of film enthusiasts involved in the restoration of the Marie Dressler house had a wild idea. Why not hold a festival showing the films in which Marie Dressler had starred? This seemingly fantastic idea grew into the present form in which we show a variety of films generally made before about 50-60 years ago.  We will often, although not always, include a film starring Marie Dressler.

For more on Marie Dressler and the Marie Dressler Foundation, please go to the Marie Dressler Foundation Web site here.

The weekend is best enjoyed as an event and not just a collection of great movies. We start with a Gala reception followed by two films. But starting in 2016, for pass holders only, we have a bonus movie on Friday before the reception. Then on Saturday we show a collection of six movies that range from very old, silent films starring Mary Pickford, Erich von Stroheim or Douglas Fairbanks, to talkies and musicals. On Sunday we show four movies.  Since 2017 is Canada's 150th birthday, all movies will feature a Canadian actor or Director. Over the weekend, we show 2 silent movies accompanied by a live pianist. 

Bursaries by Marie Dressler Foundation

Money raised by the festival goes to the Marie Dressler Foundation and one of their activities is to provide bursaries for students in Northumberland High Schools. For more information, please go to the Marie Dressler Foundation Web site.

Venue and Date for 2017

Note the dates for the 2017 Vintage Film Festival: October 13, 14 & 15. Also note that all screenings and events this year are to be at Port Hope's 'atmospheric' Capitol Theatre. [Map here]. Why not make a note on your calendar?

The 2017 Festival will be held

October 13, 14, 15, 2017