The Denver Silent Film Festival is an annual celebration of silent-era cinema held each April at the Sie FilmCenter in Denver. Established in 2010 by Denver Film, the festival is dedicated to presenting silent film masterpieces and newly restored discoveries as they were originally intended: on the big screen with live musical accompaniment.
The three-day festival screens approximately eight feature films and multiple shorts, ranging from American and international classics to rare, lesser-known works and recent restorations. Each screening features live musical performances by accomplished musicians including the Mont Alto Motion Picture Orchestra, Hank Troy, Tenia Nelson, and other talented artists who create original scores or perform period-appropriate accompaniments.
Programming often includes films featuring legendary stars like Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Douglas Fairbanks, Greta Garbo, and Louise Brooks, alongside works by pioneering directors like D.W. Griffith, F.W. Murnau, and Lois Weber. The festival frequently presents Colorado connections, such as Denver East High School alumnus Douglas Fairbanks in classics like The Thief of Bagdad.
The festival includes special presentations such as the David Shepard Career Achievement Award and partnerships with organizations like Swallow Hill Music. Festival passes and individual tickets are available, with some screenings offering pay-what-you-can pricing to ensure accessibility. Howie Movshovitz serves as festival programmer, selecting films that showcase the artistry and innovation of silent cinema’s golden age.
