Last year was my first True/False experience, and it is one of my favorite memories I have from freshman year.
I had heard a little about the festival beforehand, but it wasn’t until I walked into the Missouri Theatre for my first film that I realized how much of a big deal True/False is.
True/False brings incredible films to Columbia. “Boyhood” (_The_ “Boyhood,” which was snubbed for Best Picture at the Oscars this year) played at True/False last year. The year before, “Twenty Feet from Stardom” played here, and it went on to win the Oscar for Best Documentary.
The True/False Film Festival is without a doubt the best time to be in CoMo. But how does this True/False thing work? Here are a few pointers from a (kinda) veteran:
**Arrive early to the Q**
Do not be intimidated by the Q. The Q is easy. The Q is your friend. The Q queue is marked by a big rainbow Q outside each film venue. It’s hard to miss, especially with a fabulous Q Queen handing out movie passes in front of it.
Q cards are handed out an hour before the film screening, so be sure to show up early. Last year I would try to line up about half an hour before the Q cards were handed out, and I would always get in. But if there is a film you absolutely have to see (looking at you, “Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck”), go ahead and buy the ticket at the box office in advance. That way you’re guaranteed to get in.
**Wear layers**
As I’m sure you all know, it’s cold outside. Like, really cold. And if you do True/False right, you will be walking around downtown and standing in Q lines — in the cold — all day.
“Oh, I’ll just wear this sweatshirt and a coat. I’ll be perfectly warm.” No, you won’t be. That’s what I thought last year. I was wrong. Break out the long johns and the fuzzy socks.
But in all seriousness, just be sure to check the weather in advance. I mean, it’s Missouri — March 6 could be a pleasant 55 degrees, or there could be a snowstorm. Be prepared for whatever the inconsistent Midwest weather throws at you.
**See more than movies**
Yes, it’s the True/False _Film_ Festival and the films are fantastic and you should definitely see as many as you can. But there are so many other things to do at True/False.
The March March Parade is one of my favorite memories from last year. There are also a ton of cool panels, live music and parties to attend. Take advantage of the music and art as well as the films.
**Don’t be afraid to fly solo**
See the movies you want to see, even if your friends don’t want to go with you. I saw most of the movies alone last year and will probably end up doing the same this year, and I had a blast. Trust me, you don’t want to live with the regret of not seeing the year’s next big documentary. You are a strong, independent moviegoer who don’t need no movie buddy.
**Have fun**
Sounds super cheesy and cliché, but it’s true. Don’t stress out if you’re late to the Q line and don’t get to see a film you wanted to. Don’t get discouraged if it’s freezing and snowing outside. Don’t look at your bank account beforehand and realize you’re too poor to pay for movies and settle for watching Netflix in bed. Netflix will always be there; True/False won’t.
True/False happens only once a year. Enjoy it.
