This year, the quality of content as well as the filmmakers themselves are contributing to make this year stand out for the Flathead Lake International Cinemafest.

David King, director and a producer of the festival, also known as FLIC, said on Monday, Jan. 21, that 38 filmmakers from around the United States will attend this year, “more than we’ve ever had” in the event’s seven years.

Also contributing to this year’s unique vibe is that nominations for awards in each category of film were added.

“It’s exciting for a filmmmaker to have laurels, to say you’re nominated” for an award, King said.

This year, nearly 60 films will be screened between Friday, Jan. 25 through Sunday, Jan. 27, with encores throughout next Thursday.

Kicking off this year’s event, an informal gathering from 4:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m. will be held at The Cove Deli & Pizza, 11 Third Ave. West, on Friday, where complimentary food will be served.

FILMS ARE submitted primarily through two websites, King explained.

Withoutabox.com and filmfreeway.com allow filmmakers from around the world to see where film festivals are being held, allowing them to submit their creations.

The movies, King said, “come from all over the world. It’s been real exciting to see.”

Once a film is submitted, four judges watch projects, passing along their choices to a final, three-judge panel.

Films typically start being submitted around June, with most of the applications coming in September and October.

This year, a movie from Romania called “Octav” has been creating buzz with judges, King said.

SCREENINGS ARE on a first-come, first-seated basis with individual tickets available online and on-site for each time-block.

Films from different genres will be viewed, including animated, documentaries, feature films, student films, foreign films and short movies.

Discussions will be held throughout the weekend, and an awards ceremony and reception that are free and open to the public will close out the festival Sunday evening from 5:30 p.m. until 6:30 p.m.

FLIC is a nonprofit formed under the Greater Polson Community Foundation.

For a complete viewing schedule, visit flicpolson.com.