Flyway Film Festival

ABOUT THE FESTIVAL

We are located approximately 90 minutes southeast of downtown Minneapolis on the banks of a wide spot on the Mississippi River called Lake Pepin.

Pepin, Wisconsin and the surrounding communities have become home to many artists, artisans and craftspeople that have relocated here from areas like Minneapolis, Chicago and other big cities. In many ways we are a growing and burgeoning arts community.

Filmmaker Pericles Lewnes commented-



I drove 22 straight hours to attend the festival and support my movie, LOOP.



I didn’t know what to expect.



My experience was so wonderful and meaningful, that Pepin is the new emotional “happy place” that I bring to mind when I get the blues.



I predict the Flyway Film Festival will become one of the most popular and exclusive independent film festivals in the country. The community is passionately involved and supportive. Everyone I met was warm, friendly and brilliant. I think my IQ went up ten points when I entered Pepin. Sadly, I had to give them up when I left.



The programming was outstanding and the films cutting edge. Filmmakers I met there were insanely talented and forthcoming in the Q&As after their screenings.



Rick Vacius, the festival director, is incredibly gifted and knowledgeable about films and film genre. His passion made this a festival that was so well realized, so well planned, that it astounds me that this was his first. His wife Diana who seemed to be able to be in several places at once was always working hard to make sure everything went smooth and everyone felt at home.



I can’t remember everyone’s name or title - Bill, Kristen, Gina, Chuck, Judith, Will, Alan and Steve - (Forgive me if I left someone out) but you guys made me feel right at home and you will forever reside in a warm part in my heart.



This is a brilliant film festival - Five Stars - top notch!



Any filmmaker lucky enough to be selected for Flyway should make it a priority to attend. There screenings are well attended, there is flawless projection, and a hospitable friendly environment for artists. This festival cares about it’s audiences, filmmakers, and the art of filmmaking - and it’s free.



LOOP won a special jury award at Flyway and it is the most meaningful award I have ever won.



My extreme gratitude goes to everyone, the Lake Pepin Art & Design Center, Plum Creek Associates and EVERYONE in the town of Pepin. I cannot tell you how happy I am that LOOP was part of your inaugural festival.



Again, filmmakers, if you are lucky enough to be selected for this jewel, do yourself a favor and attend.

We look forward to your entry and meeting you in Pepin!