“Brevity is the soul of wit,” said Shakespeare. It’s also the heart and soul of Bumbershoot’s 1 Reel Film Festival — the annual collection of short films curated by Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF). An essential part of Bumbershoot’s multi-disciplinary and eclectic arts programming, these shorts are a whirlwind journey through some of the genre’s best and brightest offerings.

Founded in 1995, the festival-within-a-festival is one of the nation’s best-attended short format events, drawing thousands of filmgoers, filmmakers, and industry professionals every year. From science fiction, animals, and music to love, thrills, and food; family-friendly fare to more mature material, these snack-sized shorts satisfy a range of palates. Jury and Audience Award-winning films from SIFF make an appearance, as does material from some of the region’s best local filmmakers, affirming the Festival’s ongoing charge to champion local, emerging talent.

Along with the Film lineup, Bumbershoot is pleased to announce the addition of The World Champion Judah Friedlander to this year’s Comedy roster. The veteran comedian and former 30 Rock star rounds out an all-star cast that includes Patton Oswalt, Doug Benson, Todd Barry, and Marc Maron.

For those who like to plan in advance, specific times and dates for the entire Bumbershoot lineup are now online and available in a customizable schedule form at sched.bumbershoot.org. Procrastinators and bargain-lovers should take note — ticket prices increase on Tuesday, July 16.

Attendees who like to plan their schedule in advance but procrastinate until the day of (or guarantee admission to any event on a whim) are encouraged to purchase Platinum passes, which ensure entry into all Film, Comedy, Music, and Theatre offerings. Sunday Platinum and Gold passes are sold out, but Saturday, Monday, and 3-Day varieties, along with standard Single-Day and 3-day tickets, are available at bumbershoot.org.

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