The Rural Route Film Festival, which screens independent movies that focus on "unique people and places outside of the bustle of the city," will take place in Astoria Aug. 1-4.

The festival begins with a kickoff party on Thursday, August 1 at 7 p.m. at the Strand Smokehouse, 25-27 Broadway in Astoria, and will feature BBQ, live music and archival film footage.

Film screeenings will take place Friday, Saturday and Sunday at the Museum of the Moving Image, 36-01 35th Ave. in Astoria. Live music and food vendors will be set up both Saturday and Sunday in the museum's new outdoor courtyard.

The festival closes out Sunday night with a number of short films that will be screened on the rooftop farm at Brooklyn Grange, 37-18 Northern Blvd. in Long Island City. Neighboring cafe COFFEED will provide beer and other refreshments.