Right after September 11^th, Robert Deniro and a few other prominent New Yorkers wanted to do something to bring the art world (and commerce) back into downtown Manhattan. The result was Tribeca Film Festival, and it has become bigger than the founders could have possibly anticipated. Thanks to some big-name sponsors, savvy marketing and consistently great content; Tribeca has become one of the most anticipated film events of the year.

This festival’s 12^th go-round is happening now.  Here are three reasons why they’re our favorite fest in the city.

1. The content is consistently incredible.

This year’s films are (as almost every year) fantastic. There are plenty of lists of the “must-sees” to be found, our favorite of which comes courtesy of Indiewire. There are also countless panels with filmmakers, producers, critics and the like. We’re particularly excited about the expansion into more tech-specific topics like this afternoon’s free panel on “Big Data & the Movies.” Tribeca has gotten so big that there’s literally something for everybody.

2. They still do rush tickets.

Seriously! With a little bit of luck you can even manage to score last minute tickets to some of the most anticipated films of the week. Pick up your last minute tickets on their website.

3. Proximity!

Yes, Tribeca has outgrown the area of town we traditionally refer to as, well, Tribeca. But almost all of their speaking panels, screenings and evening events are within a short walk of our offices on Hudson & Houston. Some are free, some are not, but almost all of them can fit into your after-work routine if you schedule appropriately. You can see a full event map here.