SIFF Film Walk Far Exceeds City's Expectations

Renton film lovers flocked to the Seattle International (SIFF) Preview FilmWalk on Wednesday evening in downtown Renton. 

The kicked off the evening with a packed house. Restaurant owner, Jeffrey Lawrence estimated about 80 people crammed into the venue, which projected the film trailers on a 9-foot-by-9-foot white table cloth tacked to the wall.

"Thank you, SIFF, for putting us on the map because we are truly ahead of the curve," Lawrence said.

The Whistle Stop will offer specials to all SIFF ticket holders during the week-long festival, he said.

Director of Programming Beth Barrett and Educational Programming Manager Dustin Kasper guided FilmWalk attendees from the to the for the second round of movie trailer showings. The turn out was so great that the final venue, , had to do the trailer showings in two shifts. 

"It's going to be a super night at the movies. I can guarantee you that," Kasper said, adding that several directors and actors will lead discussions at the film festival. "The filmmakers are also totally interested in connecting with you. It's an awesome opportunity to interact and get deeper into the art form."  

Renton Economic Development Director Suzanne Dale Estey was pleased with the event turn out.

"It's absolutely beyond our expectations," she said following the FilmWalk.

Kasper agreed.

"If this is any indication for the (Renton SIFF) turnout, this is going to be a great week," he said.