'Movies At The Mansion' Film Festival Coming Soon To Westfield

WESTFIELD, NJ — Coming soon to a theater near you: "Movies at the Mansion," a fun-filled evening starring acclaimed short films, wine, food and much more.

Big Dreams & Silver Screens, the producers of the annual Westfield International Film Festival, are partnering with Asbury Shorts USA to present "Movies at the Mansion" — a screening of specially selected award-winning short films from the past and present.

The film festival will take place at the James Ward Mansion in downtown Westfield on Saturday, May 7. The mansion, which has been called Union County's "best kept secret" consists of 24-foot ceilings, gold gilded architectural detail, spiral staircases and fireplaces — located right on Broad Street

To kick off the evening, a wine and hors d'oeuvres reception will begin at 7 p.m., followed by the film festival, which begins at 8 p.m.

The event is recommended for ages 16 and above, according to Asbury Shorts.

First founded in June of 2013, the Westfield International Film Festival is a nonprofit film showcase that aims to create a "warm and welcoming home for independent filmmakers and fans of film in New Jersey and the surrounding area."

Besides short films, the festival includes feature films and music videos, as well as seminars and networking opportunities for those interested in the film industry.

Academy Award nominated director Jason Reitman who worked on films like “JUNO,” “Up in the Air,” “Thank You for Smoking” and “Young Adult” called Asbury Shorts: “The best short film show I’ve ever seen,” according to a press release.

After the film screenings, an unofficial after party will take place at 16 Prospect Wine Bar & Bistro from 10:30 p.m. to 12 a.m.

Tickets for “Movies at the Mansion” cost $35 general admission (includes the pre-show reception).

For reservations, visit: https://tinyurl.com/matm22.

The James Ward Mansion is located at 169 East Broad Street in Westfield. For more information call: 718.510.6929.

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