Slideshow: HIFF29 Opening Night

Our first day of HIFF29 started with the opening of an exhibit of Finding Beauty in a Dark Place at The Watermill Center. You’ve seen Toni Ross’s artwork on the HIFF29 poster and catalogue, but nothing compares to seeing this magnificent piece in person at The Watermill Center. A million thanks to Toni and The Watermill Center for this beautiful partnership.*

Later at Guild Hall, Opening Night offered a range of emotions with the World Premiere of THE FIRST WAVE, where—after a resounding standing ovation—director Matt Heineman was joined on stage by the incredible heroes who share their courageous stories on the screen. After the film, the evening’s sponsor National Geographic Documentary Films hosted a lovely party at Si Si Restaurant at East Hampton Point.

Overall, it was a terrific way to kick off the 29th Annual HIFF, and we’re looking forward to six more days of in-person screenings!

*Posters (signed and unsigned) are for sale on our website, and this rich, stunning (timely! meaningful!) work is on display @watermillcenter until October 17; reserve your time slot at the link in our profile