For fifteen years, one of the most popular special events at the Beloit International Film Festival has been the matching of musical and cinematic talent in the Silent Film Showcase.

This year, the tradition continues with the return of Buster Keaton to the screen, this time in his 1928 silent masterpiece, Steamboat Bill, Jr. The son of a steamboat captain, Buster falls in love with the daughter of his father’s rival steamboat owner. When a cyclone rages, Buster proves himself a hero by rescuing his love and her father from a watery grave.

The Silent Film Showcase will feature an original musical score performed by The Beloit Memorial Jazz Orchestra under the direction of Chris Behrens. “This will be the fourth consecutive silent film performance by this nationally recognized, award-winning ensemble,” says BIFF Executive Director Greg Gerard. “BIFF is tremendously proud to partner once again with such a marvelous collection of young local talent for its flagship film event.”

“After almost a hundred years Keaton’s film is still admired by audiences and filmmakers alike,” notes Gerard. “It is a testament to his gift as a physical comedian with a determination to push for bigger and better stunts. He had a technically innovative approach to filmmaking, constantly pushing the boundaries in what was, at that time, a new medium.”

• Date: Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, 7:30 pm
• Location: Beloit Memorial High School Auditorium
• Tickets: $20 Adults | $5 students, all ages with I.D.
  • Available at the door
  • purchase online here.
  • BIFF Box Office 773-818-5010

The Beloit International Film Festival this year marks its 15th season as the region’s major international cultural event. BIFF is sponsored by the Hendricks Family Foundation and Visit Beloit in association with Beloit College. Support for the Festival comes from area businesses and civic organizations, and the Wisconsin Arts Board with funds from the State of Wisconsin and the National Endowment for the Arts. Critical individual support for BIFF is provided through gifts and membership in the BIFF Founders and the Film Society of Beloit.