Unless you drive to Philadelphia or New York, northern Delaware residents have little chance of seeing many independent or classic films in the theater. Barry Schlecker was determined to change all that.

"I just want folks in Delaware to have an opportunity to view great movies on the BIG screen" says Schlecker. "and the fact is, the Newark Cinema Center is the best venue around. People constantly tell me that they’re disappointed with most of the mainstream movies available in the multiplexes. At the Newark Film Festival, people actually applaud at the end of the film – they are that thrilled to view great films!”

The Newark Film Festival is enjoying a lot of buzz as Delaware’s fastest growing community event. It's not just about area residents having an unprecedented view of great films. Schlecker hopes to advance the excellent reputations of area merchants, restaurateurs and businesses. Newark is a fantastic town. There are so many charming and sophisticated events throughout the year. The Newark Film Festival is proud to be among them.