Letters

I immersed myself in the Hamptons Doc Fest this December, both as a volunteer and a filmgoer. I hadn’t attended more than a handful of films over the festival’s history, now in its 17th year; however, my recent involvement electrified me with the intoxicating breadth and vitality of this magnificent event! From founder Jacqui Lofaro and her mainstay of directors, to its staff and boards, to its sponsors and patrons, the Hamptons Doc Fest is a hard-driving jubilee rivaling any international film festival.

I read a quote that film festivals are “niche businesses.” Upon offering my aid shortly after eye surgery, I nervously reported to the volunteer coordinator that it’s impossible for me to read names or escort people through dark theaters.

Opening night, when I arrived on duty, to many huddling people and a sold-out crowd, I panicked quickly to create my “niche” as I was adamantly waved over to the registration table to check in ticket-holders. Thinking swiftly, I grabbed a bunch of ballots and distanced myself from the throng.

It was a compelling job, being the ballot keeper. Throughout the festival, I was captivated by the demeanors of the filmgoers entering the film and their changed attitudes exiting the film.

Scooping up their rated ballots, I witnessed beams of smiles, unabashed emotions, enchantment, lively discussions and interpretations, a shared pathos. Audiences left the theater with a sense of solidarity — bonded by their humanity, their simpatico, their quest for truth in these disquieting times.

And then it would begin all over again. Handing out the ballots, collecting the ballots, feeling proud to be an integral part of this galvanizing community.

One stalwart couple, visitors from New York City, attended every single film, every Q&A, and every reception, including the Michael Moore Gala. I kidded them that they were the poster children of the festival. Their comforting devotion shines on.

As a filmgoer, sitting in the settled and darkened audience, I eagerly anticipated the irresistible festival intro, a kaleidoscope of diverse clips from this year’s 32-film lineup. Perfection was predicated in this enticing prelude; the riveting crescendo of the music still echoes in my ears.

And the films did not disappoint. From artificial intelligence to digging up dinosaur bones, from segregation protests in Washington, D.C., to a South African photographer’s escape from the brutal suppression of Apartheid. Bios on extraordinary lives and legacies. Cris de coeur for whales, for the environment, for safeguarding freedoms and dignities. Evocative. Provocative. Persevering.

Plunge into the Hamptons Doc Fest, an East End treasure. You will reap joy, nourishment and a dazzling education. The next program starts in April, with Docs Equinox, an eye-opening celebration of Earth Day.

Camille Petrillo

North Haven