“Events like the Woodstock Film Festival are some of the few places where films aren’t viewed as units of sale, judged on their value of commerce. The community building, idea sharing, and celebration of film as a medium that the Woodstock Film Festival fosters is invaluable to the lifeblood of the film community. I’ve been to many festivals all around the world, but this is one of my favorites.”

— Ethan Hawke, Maverick Award recipient

“I think my entire career has been defined by just constant imposter syndrome...but I’d say that’s my career. I don’t know what I’m doing at any given time but I follow a feeling that somehow feels right. For all the amazing and talented filmmakers here tonight, I hope that you don’t know what you’re doing the whole time and that you follow that feeling and hopefully it leads you to a place like here.”

— Awkwafina, Transcendent Talent Award recipient

“…thank you to this festival for nurturing a lot of us, all of us in this room, by what we saw, by what we make, by how we get commended and acknowledged. So I thank the festival profoundly and the community that nurtures this festival, and all the ingredients that go into making this a fertile filmmaking arena and region.”

— Debra Granik, Fiercely Independent Award recipient

“Let's all be trailblazers. Let's break some rules, support independent cinema so that new voices and stories and conversations can continue. Go to your local cinema. Hell, buy your local cinema. Seek out something different, divisive, groundbreaking. We all have a responsibility to share in a bright future for the culture that we all feel so passionately about. And lastly, thank you to all of the creators who continue to share their stories with us. And as the famous poet Bruce Springstein said, you can't start a fire without a spark.”

— Arianna Bocco, Trailblazer Award recipient

“Thank you so much for the honor of being part of your beautiful festival. You put together such a special celebration of film out there it really becomes an unforgettable bonding experience of like minded people. I can’t thank you enough for inviting me into your world.”

— Fran Kranz (Actor, JULIA, Filmmaker, MASS)

“Woodstock is my absolute favorite festival because it has everything; a beautiful and relaxing setting, a wonderful artistic community … It’s a love fest for film lovers,”

- Roger Ross Williams, Director

“What a feat and I didn’t think the Woodstock ‘stock’ was in a position to rise, but it seems like a more ‘important’ festival than ever without becoming too sceney or losing its film-lover roots.”

— Holly Morris, Filmmaker, EXPOSURE

"I want to congratulate you on another wonderful week of film for all of us to enjoy. I saw 15 films this year and was pleased to see that two of my favorites won the audience award. You have accomplished what at many times I am sure seemed impossible and you must be so very proud. I always look forward to the festival and you never disappoint! Thanks for all of your hard work and thank your wonderful team of staff and volunteers. Bravo!!!!

- Wendy Fehse, Audience Member

“The Woodstock Film Festival is that rare and wonderful celebration that joins folks who make movies with folks who love movies in a glorious community around great storytelling. It’s a spirit that has flourished forever in this corner of the Catskills and WFF is giving new generations the chance to say, ‘Oh yeah, I was at Woodstock!’.”

— Peter Saraf, Producer (LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE, THE FAREWELL)

“Thank you so much for fostering such a warm, welcoming and exciting experience this year. We had an incredible time and were thrilled to pick up the Best Short Animation award. I always look forward to opportunities that afford us a chance to attend or participate in the Woodstock Film Festival. As an animator, I’m continually impressed by your festivals animation programming which has become a diverse showcase for the most interesting indie artists, storytelling and techniques being used in our industry today. Truly top notch.”

— Peter Ahern, Director/Animator, Winner of Best Animation Award for BUZZKILL