Wondering which you've been to and your impressions of them. Also wondering if there are any you really want to hit at some point in the future?
I've only been to the Phoenix Film Festival (surprise, surprise) and the Cleveland Film Festival (which actually had A.O. Scott as a speaker and attendee, which was cool, I really like him).
In the 2020s, I have my eyes set on a few, although I admit I'm ignorant on whether some of these even show their films in English/with English subtitles. It's an uncomfortable thing to presume, yet I presume it. Ones I'm interested in:
Rotterdam: I've never even been to Europe bc of money. Things have been looking up, and this is one I really want to do. Shooting for 2022 or 2023 at the latest, have to build up days off and goodwill since it's during the school year. Sounds like an awesome, audience-friendly atmosphere. Drew my attention because of how it provides the means to finish films for many, many international film-makers who would not otherwise be able to.
Toronto: Looking for an excuse to go back to Toronto. Lineup is always amazing. Also during the school year, so who knows.
Sarajevo: A festival born from war. Actually during the summer, and 1/2 my family is originally from the region (Croatia).
Edinburg: Another one actually in the summer. I'd like to travel Scotland, but then also hit Liverpool (about a 4 hour drive from Edinburgh), do some Reds stuff, some Beatles stuff.
I'd put Sundance and Slamdance on here, but both also during the school year, and not as high of a priority as the ones above. Also, if someone famous can get me in at Cannes, well, I wouldn't be opposed.
The only time I've ever been off-continent was to Hawaii. Figure here are some good excuses to start traveling in my late 30s into my 40s. I might actually finally have a few bucks to do it. We'll see.
Anyway, share your experiences and you aspirations when it comes to film festivals!