Independent Film Festival Ypsilanti returns with first guest filmmaker and new programs

On the Ground Ypsilanti is an “embedded journalism” program covering the city and township of Ypsilanti. It is supported by Ann Arbor SPARK, the Center for Health and Research Transformation, Destination Ann Arbor, Eastern Michigan University, Engage @ EMU, Washtenaw Community College, Washtenaw County Parks and Recreation Commission, and Washtenaw ISD.

The Independent Film Festival Ypsilanti (IFFY) will return to Riverside Arts Center, 76 N. Huron St. in Ypsilanti, on April 16-18 with a mix of new programming, expanded community partnerships, and a continued emphasis on grassroots filmmaking. This year’s festival will build on IFFY’s established identity while introducing several new elements, including a visiting filmmaker and curated programming blocks.

The visiting filmmaker will be Danny Plotnick, a Michigan-born filmmaker whose early Super 8 work will be spotlighted in the festival. The program includes a 40th anniversary screening of Plotnick’s film “Skate Witches,” along with appearances from members of the original cast.

“This is the first year we’ve been able to bring in a special guest-of-honor filmmaker, actually spend the money to fly them in, and work with them to set up a program,” says IFFY Marketing Manager Dustin Krcatovich. “We’re very excited about it.”

Alongside that addition, this year’s lineup introduces new themed programming blocks. A Saturday program of short experimental films, titled “The Landscape in Between,” will explore ideas of landscape and identity. Other screenings emphasize interconnected themes of human relationships and personal reflection. The festival will also feature a mix of returning staples, including a “Michigan-ish” opening night program and a 26.2-hour filmmaking marathon, which challenges participants to create short films over a single day.

In the weeks leading up to the festival, organizers have leaned heavily into community-driven fundraising and outreach events, which they say have helped shape the festival’s tone and reach. A benefit concert and free film screenings in partnership with downtown Ypsi bar and music venue Ziggy’s allowed community members to engage with the fest and support it, but also connect with local filmmakers and their neighbors in celebration of the community event. 

Those efforts also aim to make filmmaking more accessible, particularly for newcomers. IFFY Co-Director Micah Vanderhoof says organizers have focused on creating opportunities for networking and collaboration, especially tied to the filmmaking marathon.

“Folks trying to get into filmmaking are generally on the sidelines, interested but without contacts,” she says. “[IFFY events help] to give them more contacts to meet other folks instead of just having to enter on their own.”

Maintaining that sense of accessibility while continuing to grow has been central to the festival’s approach. Organizers say IFFY’s identity is closely tied to Ypsilanti itself, with its programming and partnerships reflecting the city’s creative culture.

“We’re definitely distinct,” Krcatovich says. “It’s important to us to distinguish ourselves in the same way that Ypsi has its own quirks and charms.”

The local focus extends to collaborations with musicians, artists, and businesses across the city, reinforcing what organizers describe as a uniquely concentrated and supportive creative community.

“This year, the Danny Plotnick idea really pulled things together in a thematic direction to aim us toward a more DIY, more punk Ypsi feel,” Vanderhoof says. “It’s particularly reflective this year of my experience of Ypsi.”

Tickets and additional information about the weekend’s events can be found at the festival’s website. 

“Come out to be inspired,” Vanderhoof says. “If it’s your first time, it’s a great opportunity to be open to expanding your expectations and growing.”