Silver anniversary of 'The Natural' to be celebrated

As part of its celebration of the filming of "The Natural" in the Buffalo area 25 years ago, the second annual Buffalo Niagara Film Festival is seeking area residents who either participated in the film's production or have stills, home movies, memorabilia or anecdotal information related to the film's shoot.

BNFF would like to include these materials and memories in their presentation of the film.

"The Natural" will screen as part of the festival's opening-day gala on Monday, March 24 at the Adams Mark Hotel, 120 Church St., Buffalo.

The film will screen at 5 p.m. with a special dinner to follow at 7 p.m.

Actor Robert J. Prosky, who played "The Judge" in the film, which starred Robert Redford and was directed by Barry Levinson, will be on hand, along with other members of the production crew, to discuss the film with festival goers.

"We want to get the community involved in the festival, and this is one way that people can participate directly," said festival founder Bill Cowell.

Residents with materials and memories related to "The Natural" are encouraged to contact the festival through its Web site, www. buffaloniagarafilmfestival. com, or call 827-3534.

Advance tickets are available through the Web site.