(Image: Thin Skin)

This summer, CHS checked in with the unique mix of Capitol Hill area movie theaters to learn more about how the venues were approaching reopening after months of COVID-19 restrictions. The answer? In slow motion with caution and safety.

On 12th Ave, the Hill’s Northwest Film Forum is tip toeing into the new world of pandemic-era theatergoing this week with screenings as part of its annual Local Sightings film festival. Masks and proof of vaccination are required:

Presented by Seattle’s Northwest Film Forum, the 24th Annual Local Sightings Film Festival is a virtual-and-in-person showcase of creative communities from throughout the Pacific Northwest. The 2021 program, which runs from September 16–26, features a competitive selection of curated short film programs and feature films, inviting regional artists to experiment, break, and remake popular conceptions around filmmaking and film exhibition.

Many of the selections are also available for “virtual” festival attendees. But some experiences will only happen at the 12th Ave theater. Opening night selection Thin Skin from Seattle writer and filmmaker Charles Mudede is one of the special experiences as area film fans return to theaters. While the opening night screening is already sold out, you can catch a special encore in-person showing on Monday.

For more information on the festival or to buy passes, visit nwfilmforum.org.