It is springtime in Southeast Detroit, and with it comes the excitement of many events to partake in. The thought of going to Belle Isle conservatory and aquarium, or biking through the Dequindre Cut, or hearing many different languages at the Eastern Market is enough make the newest Detroit lover giddy beyond belief. However, among the more well-known events, there are hundreds upon hundreds of other events that are just as fun as the big-ticket ones.

Starting this week, the Italian Film Festival starts in Detroit. This is a month-long event that showcases some of the years’ best Italian films, right here in your own backyard. This event is a great way to not only experience Italian culture, but to partake in an event that has gathered recognition across an entire region.

The logistics

The entire festival takes place across the month of April. It starts March 30 at the Detroit Institute of Arts, and rotates between four universities in Southwest Detroit. The first leg of the festival takes place at Wayne State University and the Detroit Institute of Arts, then goes to the University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Oakland University, and Henry Ford Community College.

Who can go?

The festival is open to anyone, and better yet, it is free entry for everyone! For those who are wondering, all movies are shown in their native language, which is either standard Italian or the dialect of one of the many regions in Italy. But fear not, all of the films will have English subtitles for those who do not speak the language. However, and this is from a person who has had experience watching these films with little experience in the language to speaking it more fluently, there is not much of a disadvantage to the viewer while needing to read the subtitles.

What movies do they show?

The films span all genres. There are dramatic love stories, comedic family films, eye-opening films about the Mafia presence in Italy, and historical films about Carnevale, the large celebration before Lent in the Catholic faith, for example. There are films for people of all ages, and chances for everyone to take an interest.

The festival is a wonderful experience. It is a way for Italians to come together and get a nostalgic feel for their lifestyle, or for those who want to learn more about the language and culture, or even for those who are just looking to partake in a cultural, Detroit event! A list of all the films can be found at http://italianfilmfests.org/detroit.html. I hope to see you there!