NYCIFF launched in August 2010 -- the dream, vision and brainchild of Italian film maker and artist
Roberto Rizzo -- who while in the midst of planning the organization of a new international film
festival in New York City, the headline story broke of a bomb attempt in the heart of Times Square,
severely affecting the city at large, tourism trade and Times Square businesses. Roberto was
outraged and in defiance of it, immediately resolved to plan his event for Times Square. He
contacted Mayor Bloomberg’s office and pitched his film festival idea, planning in the process to hold
free public screenings in the heart of Times Square to boost tourism. That was the start of the
New York City International Film Festival.
NYCIFF is now moving forward into the Festival’s 2nd year with an expanded program -- extending
the Festival to include 7-full days and nights of free public screenings, and a fashion program partner.
Also expanding with the NYCIFF program will be fund-raising events for NYCIFF Institute, a not-forprofit
intended to provide funding for scholarships, filmmakers and promotion of film as a medium for
artistic self-expression. All proceeds from NYCIFF merchandise sales will benefit the Institute fund.
2011 will be a banner year for NYCIFF, the official jumping off point for the Festival’s model for
years to come -- making it a unique Sponsorship opportunity. This year’s Festival will take place from
August 18-28, with film industry screenings and competition taking place from August 18-25, and
Times Square Films free public screenings and NYCIFF Fashion events from August 22-28 in Times
Square.
