The 10th Annual Tribeca Film Festival Opening Night on April 20th was a memorable one. It began with Denis Leary introducing The Bangles and the PS22 Chorus, who have become an internet phenomena ever since their teacher blogged about them. Recently, they even performed at the 83rd Academy Awards. After their performance, New York City’s very own Marty Scorsese graced New Yorkers with his appearance and delivered interesting remarks about the opening film.

Held in the beautiful World Financial Arts Center on the Hudson -- and with a clear sky and temperatures starting in the 60s -- this event was a perfect way to spend an evening with family or friends. It featured a free screening of The Union, Cameron Crowe's  documentary about the collaboration between Elton John and his biggest musical influence, Leon Russell.

After  the screening, Elton John came on stage to close the night with a live performance. New York City couldn’t ask for anything better that night!

Numerous filmmakers and celebrities are expected to sashay down the red carpet during the festival activities. Included among attendees are Eva Mendez, Matt Dilon, Whoopi Goldberg, Alec Baldwin, Robert De Niro, Kevin Spacey, Susan Sarandon, Morgan Spurlock, David O’Russell, Ryan Phillippe, and many others.

Some narrative films to look for this year are Flowers of Evil (Fleurs du Mal), The Bang-Bang Club, Grey Matter, The Assault (L’Assaut), and Janie Jones.

Jurors for the competitive festival categories will announce the winning films, filmmakers and actors in those categories at the TFF Awards Night ceremony April 28.  The festival organizers announced this morning that Jason Sudeikis, Nora Ephron, Anna Kendrick, Michael Cera, Whoopi Goldberg and David O. Russell are among the 38 individuals included on this prestigious jury.

For more info, please visit www.tribecafilm.com/festival or call 866-941-FEST (3378).

More to come!

(Photo by Patryca Adamowska)