IFP is launching the New York-based Independent Film Weekfrom Sept 19-23, a promotional event designed to boost film-going at first-runindependent theatres by offering free concessions and access to filmmakers andtalent.

The event kicks off with the New York premiere of Rodrigo Garcia'sNine Lives, whichMagnolia Pictures will release in the US on Oct 14, and closes with aretrospective and conversation with Glenn Close, who stars in Garcia's female-orienteddrama about life's disappointments.

In total there will be six public events during Independent FilmWeek, which coincides with the 27th annual IFP Market and filmmaker conferenceon independent film.

Other highlights include a reading of three one-act plays thatmade the final of this year's Slamdance-sponsored Skyline Award, and Q&Aswith Norman Jewison and Matthew Modine,

"New York is commonly acknowledged as the capital of independentfilm, but average New York moviegoers probably have no idea how lucky they arethat there is a thriving independent exhibition scene that provides them with ayear-round festival of films that never see the light of day in other parts ofthe country," IFP board chairman Ira Deutchman said.

"This initiative is to highlight and celebrate the bounty ofindependent film in a very public way."