One of the most eagerly awaited annual events in Pittsburgh, this exciting 2-week long celebration features over 40 films – films made in Pittsburgh, documentaries, independent American cinema, shorts, restored classics with live music, and cutting-edge international films. there are parties throughout the city, a photo auction, visiting filmmakers, informal post-screening discussions and more!
In 1982, the Film Section of the Carnegie Museum of Art and Pittsburgh Filmmakers suggested to the Three Rivers Arts Festival that a film component should be added to their annual Spring event. A dozen films premiered that year, among them, George Romero’s “Knightriders.” The films were showcased at the Arcade Theater on the Southside (since burned down) and in the 60-seat screening room at Pittsburgh “Film-Makers Inc.” on Oakland Avenue (now torn down). Over the years many movie houses around the city have played host: The Fiesta, The Rex, The Playhouse, The Beehive, even the Benedum.
The Film Festival remained a collaborative annual event between the organizations for several years. But by 1993, both the Carnegie and the Arts Fesitval had pulled out, and the Film Festival became an annual Fall event of Pittsburgh Filmmakers.
The Three Rivers Film Festival remains the oldest and largest annual film festival in the Pittsburgh area, with its own unique personality. While new film festivals have emerged, the Three Rivers Film Festival is an inclusive celebration. Recognizing all the things “film” can be – we offer a little something for everyone.