Chlotrudis Society for Independent Film (CSIF) offers a series of exciting events throughout the year, including the beloved annual Chlotrudis Awards black tie event, the short film festival and much more. An exciting line up of film premieres, special events and member discounts herald the celebration of the tenth year as an organization, including a vote of the Board of Directors to change the name of the non-profit society to represent the mission and vision of Chlotrudis.
Chlotrudis Society for Independent Film, a non-profit organization that educates audiences about independent film was formed nearly ten years ago in a response to the lackluster films being awarded by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences. In the intervening years, the organization has matured from a grass roots fan club into a non-profit corporation with a wide variety of activities and events.
‘Chlotrudis does so much more than just the annual Awards Ceremony, but you don’t get that from the former name,’ Chlotrudis founder Michael Colford explains. ‘We felt it was important to have the words ‘independent film’ in the organization’s name. That way people have an inkling to what we’re all about right away. In recent years Chlotrudis has developed into an organization with a strong social element. Members enjoy active discussion of film on our e-mail group, and many members gather each Monday night in Boston to see a new independent film. We chose the word ‘society’ to reflect that aspect.’
Broadening the name of their organization made sense to the Board members, although there was plenty of discussion on what that new name should be. There was even a suggestion to drop ‘Chlotrudis’ from the organization’s title.
‘Of course, ‘Chlotrudis’ is a word that carries some controversy as well,’ Colford continues. ‘There was serious discussion about shortening it to ‘Chloe,’ but it was quickly rejected. ‘Chlotrudis’ is part of who we are. There have been lots of jokes made of the name, and we enjoy that. It reflects part of the irreverent, spontaneous nature of the organization. You may not remember our name, but you’ll never forget it.’
Chlotrudis Society for Independent Film began its tenth year on July 1. The current focus is to increase membership. In addition to the social aspect Colford mentions, there are other benefits to joining Chlotrudis. Chlotrudis members receive discounts on certain nights at the Coolidge Corner and Brattle Theatres. Coming in a few months, Chlotrudis will be teaming with the Brattle to present a special Sunday morning series that is focused on members of both organizations. Chlotrudis members receive early copies of its quarterly newsletter, Chlotrudis Mewsings, as well as opportunities to travel with other like-minded movie buffs to various Film Festivals. Members also enjoy discounts to all Chlotrudis events, such as the Short Film Festival held in February 2004 at the Coolidge Corner Theatre, and the annual Awards Ceremony at the Brattle Theatre. Chlotrudis is developing relationships with national organizations as well, extending member benefits to those who don’t live in the Boston area.
The best benefit of membership in Chlotrudis Society for Independent Film is the privilege to vote in the annual Awards for your favorite indie films and stars on our website at www.chlotrudis.org. Your voice counts, after all, that’s how the organization got started in the first place.