Friends,

The 14th edition of the Traverse City Film Festival is less than a week away and I couldn’t be more excited. Joining us here this year is an American icon, a legendary actor, a Detroit Red Wing, the daughters of Hedy Lamarr and William Wyler (“Ben-Hur”), SNL’s favorite impersonator (the original Trump!), David Letterman’s writer, hero activists, a geek (not a freak), and many more extraordinary subjects, actors, and filmmakers.

We’ve had record ticket sales so far, but there are still tickets left for some screenings that are close to my heart:

A special screening of a new 4k restoration of THE ATOMIC CAFE. The filmmakers who made this film came from New York to Flint for a week and taught me how to make a movie. Two years later I completed “Roger & Me.” Their classic film, THE ATOMIC CAFE, was one of my inspirations for my first movie. There is ONE screening ONLY at the State. Please don’t miss it!

Stanley Kubrick’s right-hand man, Leon Vitali, will be here to answer questions after a screening of FILMWORKER, along with the film’s director. He will also help us christen The Kubrick theater. We’ll be making film history, right here in Traverse City!

TCFF Board Member and festival favorite Mark Cousins (“I Am Belfast”) returns to the festival with his film THE EYES OF ORSON WELLES which had its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival earlier this year. The film originated in Traverse City two years ago when I brought Mark and Beatrice Welles together at the festival and I am the Executive Producer of the movie.

And these screenings are not to be missed:

Director Robert Schwentke (“RED,” “The Time Traveler’s Wife”) will present his latest feature film THE CAPTAIN based on a true story that you have to see to believe.

CRIME + PUNISHMENT — an award-winning film about police corruption. Two of the whistleblowers from the film will be in attendance, as well as the film’s director.

Big hearted and biting, SUPPORT THE GIRLS is a feminist, crowd-pleasing comedy. Actress Regina Hall (“Girls Trip”) is truly outstanding.

A MURDER IN MANSFIELD – A gripping true crime saga from a legend of filmmaking-the godmother of the modern documentary– two-time Oscar-winner Barbara Kopple.

MIKE’S SURPRISE – The first surprise event I’m bringing to the State on Saturday is already sold out. But fear not! A few tickets still remain for Sunday afternoon’s 14-year tradition at The Kubrick at Central Grade School! Don’t miss out on being able to say “I was there when…” This is the only time I will be bringing such a thing to Traverse City…

And we’re filling the last BY POPULAR DEMAND slot with an additional screening of THE SENTENCE. It won the Audience Award at Sundance, and something tells me it’s gonna be a contender here. The Michigan family featured in the film will be with us and I guarantee you, there won’t be a dry eye in the house.

I’m counting down the hours until I can serve you all some Cherry pie!

See you soon!

Michael Moore