Top Spots For Film Geeks And Film Buffs Near Denver

Are you a film buff? Do you enjoy independent films, film history or even film memorabilia? There are so many places in Denver and the surrounding areas that are full of movie history, memorabilia and more. Plus, as more legislation passes and film incentives continue to be supported, Denver will see a growing filmmaking community. These five places will help you learn about making film, support local filmmakers or just enjoy some movie history.

Emerging Filmmakers Project
At the Bug Theatre
3654 Navajo St
Denver, CO 80211
(303) 477-9984
www.bugtheatre.org

The Emerging Filmmakers Project is currently celebrating 10 years of showcasing independent film in Denver with screenings held every third Thursday of the month. The Bug Theatre is an excellent place to network and meet other filmmakers, actors and writers in the Denver area. As each short film is screened, a short question-and-answer session is held with the filmmakers to allow curious minds to ask questions about their work.

The Stanley Hotel
333 Wonderview Ave
Estes Park, CO 80517
(970) 577-4000
www.stanleyhotel.com

With Estes Park being just about an hour away from Denver, a trip to the monumental hotel in this cute mountain town will quickly bring back some of the most haunting scenes ever created for the big screen. The Stanley Hotel is one of the most famous hotels in the country; most known for being the inspiration for Stephen King's novel-turned-film "The Shining." There have also been several films shot on location at the hotel, including the television movie version of "The Shining" and the film "Dumb & Dumber." There is even a small museum in the Stanley where you can see pictures and memorabilia from some of the famous movie shoots. However, the most popular attraction at The Stanley is still its daily ghost tours.

Hollywood Posters
326 E Colfax Ave
Denver, CO 80203
(303) 839-1984
www.hollywoodpostersdenver.com

Looking for a movie poster? Hollywood Posters is the definitive place in Denver to nail down any hard-to-find movie poster. Tens of thousands of posters, prints and collectibles fill this small store on Colfax Avenue, still run by the original owner for more than 30 years. Just a short visit to this immense collection will leave your head spinning as it has more posters than you can possibly imagine. It is the perfect spot to spend a few hours. Look through the collection and you're sure to find a few to take home.

Related: Top Budget Arts & Culture Events in Denver

Film Classes at Colorado Free University
7653 E 1^st Place
Denver, CO 80230
(303) 399-0093
www.freeu.com

Colorado Free University is currently celebrating more than 25 years of bringing unique and low-cost classes to the curious minds of Denver. Introduction to Film Making is a popular class that is designed for both the home filmmaker and the aspiring amateur. It will teach the basics of the artistic process including composition, lighting, camera movement, editing and more. Be sure to check out all of the great film classes at Colorado Free University as it has a ton of options for everyone.

Colorado Film School
9075 E Lowry Blvd, Building 965
Denver, CO 80230
(303) 340-7321
facebook.com/coloradofilmschool

Looking to get a bit more serious about filmmaking? Colorado Film School offers associates and bachelors degrees all about film. Focuses are on writing and directing, producing, post production, cinematography or acting for the screen. There are also certificate programs in the areas for those that aren't looking for a full-degree program. With state-of-the-art equipment and fantastic teachers, students are making films from the very beginning.

Related: Top Movie Theaters in Denver

Deborah Flomberg is a theater professional, freelance writer and Denver native. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.