The 12th Woodstock Film Festival, running September 21-25, 2011, has announced its full lineup of films, panels and more. From the official press release:
(Woodstock, NY) – August 30, 2011: The 12th Annual Fiercely Independent Woodstock Film Festival, kicking off Wed. Sept. 21 through Sun. Sept. 25, has unveiled its 2011 line-up of nearly 150 exciting films, panels, performances and special events. Screenings and events will take place in the historic arts colony of Woodstock, and the neighboring towns of Rhinebeck, Rosendale and Kingston, in the Hudson Valley Catskills, just two hours from NYC.
"Each fall we have the honor to provide the Woodstock platform to so many talented, innovative and bold filmmakers, from distant places throughout the world to those who work right here in our own Hudson Valley backyard," said Meira Blaustein, WFF co-founder and executive director. "This year is rich with new and exciting voices side by side with those who are prolific and accomplished. We can’t wait to host them all together here in Woodstock this September."
***WEATHER AND POWER PERMITTING, the WFF Box Office will be open Aug. 31-Sept. 17, Wednesday-Sunday from noon-6p. *****As of noon on August 30, there is still no power in Woodstock. Check Woodstock FIlm Festival for updates.
On September 18-25 the Box Office is open every day from 9a-7p. ONLINE SALES AND PHONE SALES GO LIVE on Sept. 3 at www.woodstockfilmfestival.com.
The Box Office is located at 13 Rock City Road, WFF’s new Film Center, in the heart of Woodstock. This year WFF is pleased to announce a new venue for screenings and events- the Woodstock Playhouse, historically one of the region’s most prestigious arts venues. The newly renovated 300 seat theater enables WFF to better serve our attendees, with a full slate of programming on tap. WFF is also happy to be back at the Kleinert Gallery which this year will serve as the House of Shorts.
Since its inception in 2000, WFF has firmly established itself as one of the foremost regional, independent film festivals in the world. The 2011 festival presents a record 62 Premieres consisting of 19 World Premieres, 4 North American Premieres, 5 U.S. Premieres, 13 East Coast Premieres and 21 New York Premieres.
There were more than 2000 submissions from 39 countries, including Iceland, Turkey, France, Argentina, India, Japan, Australia, Italy and Greece in addition to U.S. entries from Los Angeles to Brooklyn. The program represents a full spectrum of filmmakers, ranging from established, award-winning A-list directors and industry professionals, to students and emerging indie filmmakers from under-served areas and under-developed countries. This year also brings another record number of attending filmmakers and industry insiders to Woodstock, and with it, a continuing acknowledgement that WFF has become a must-attend stop on the international film circuit.
PARTICIPANTS INCLUDE: Mark Ruffalo, Ellen Barkin, Robin Bronk, Bruce Beresford, Meera Gandhi, Susan Seidelman, Nancy Savoca, Debra Granik, Barbara Kopple, Michael Silberman, Bingham Ray, Richard Abramowitz, Bill Plympton, Signe Baumane, Doreen Ringer Ross, Larry Fessenden, John Sloss, Peter Saraf, Jonathan Gray, Ron Mann, Timothy Hutton, Kevin Corrigan, John Ventimiglia, Sara Driver, Alex Steyermark, Kit Carson, Stephen Nemeth, Thelma Adams, David D’Arcy, Martha Frankel, George S. Clinton, Michael Bacon, David Grubin, Lisa Albright, Noah Hutton, Lisa Gossels, Paul Green, Lori Singer, Philippe Quint, Nellie McKay, Javier Limón, Cristina Pato, José Manuel Zapata, Tracy Bonham, Jerry Marotta, Jesse McBride, The Cotton Brothers, Betty, and many other outstanding artists.
OPENING NIGHT FILM:
– PEACE, LOVE, & MISUNDERSTANDING, directed by Bruce Beresford, (U.S. Premiere)
WFF 2010 Honorary Maverick Award recipient Bruce Beresford (Driving Miss Daisy, Tender Mercies) shot this film in Woodstock and the Hudson Valley. Catherine Keener plays a conservative lawyer who takes her two teenage children to meet their estranged, hippie grandmother (Jane Fonda) in Woodstock, NY. WFF is pleased to present the U.S. Premiere of "PLM" as our opening night film, screening Thursday, Sept. 22, 6:30p, Woodstock Playhouse with an additional screening Friday, Sept. 23, 4:30p, Rosendale Theater. Beresford, along with writers, producers and select cast will attend the Q&A after the screening.SPOTLIGHT FILM:
– ANOTHER HAPPY DAY, directed by Sam Levinson, (East Coast Premiere)
High-strung Lynn (Ellen Barkin) and her troubled grown children (Kate Bosworth and Ezra Miller) attend the wedding of her estranged eldest son and journey deep into the heart of domestic darkness. (* ELLEN BARKIN will be the recipient of the WFF Excellence in Acting Award at the Saturday, Sept. 24, Gala Maverick Awards Ceremony. She will also be in attendance for the Q&A on Friday, Sept. 23, 6p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck and Saturday, Sept. 24, 12:30p, Woodstock Playhouse.SPECIAL SCREENINGS:
– GIVING BACK, directed by Meera Gandhi
International humanitarian, author and filmmaker Meera Gandhi explores the deeply personal and unique ways in which her friends from around the world "give back" to humanity. The film will screen with 9 Pianos, Friday, Sept. 23, 4:30p, Upstate Films, Woodstock.
*Academy Award-Nominated actor, MARK RUFFALO, will receive the very first Meera Gandhi Giving Back Award for his community activism involving safe water and hydro-fracking in the Catskills. Ms. Gandhi will present the award to Ruffalo at the Saturday, Sept. 24, Gala Maverick Awards Ceremony. RUFFALO is a resident of the Catskills and an active supporter of the anti-fracking movement, traveling to Albany and Washington to protect safe water for the region.– PERFECT SENSE, directed by David Mackenzie, (East Coast Premiere)
Scientist Susan (Eva Green) has given up on love after dedicating herself to the study of epidemics. When she meets Michael (Ewan McGregor), everything changes. They experience new and unforeseen depths of feeling, as all around the world something strange is affecting everyone’s emotions. A genre-busting, poetic sci-fi film with a life-affirming look at what it means to love and be loved in turbulent times. Screening Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:30p, Upstate Films, Woodstock and Sunday, Sept. 25, 7:30p, Rosendale Theater.– MUSICAL CHAIRS, directed by Susan Seidelman, (Sneak Preview)
A s-xy, pulse-pounding romance set in the scintillating, competitive world of ballroom dancing. Upper East Side Mia (Leah Pipes) has a promising career as a dancer. Bronx-born Armando (EJ Bonilla) sweeps floors at the dance studio in exchange for lessons. He dreams of dancing with Mia, the love of his life. Their dreams are shattered when a tragic accident forever confines Mia to a wheelchair. Armando dedicates himself to helping Mia "dance" once more. Director Seidelman will be in attendance for the Q&A, Saturday, Sept. 24, 8p, Woodstock Playhouse.SPECIAL COLLABORATIVE PROGRAMS WITH THE CONSULATES OF SPAIN AND ISRAEL:
FROM SPAIN:
– PÁJAROS DE PAPEL (PAPER BIRDS), directed by Emilio Aragón
A musician, a ventriloquist, a singer and an orphan named Miguel make up an unlikely family of lost souls, struggling to get by one day at a time, sharing their joys and sorrows. Their only escape from the misery around them? Their music. As it turns out, when bread is scarce, applause can really hit the spot. But right away they are put to the test and forced to make decisions that will place their lives in jeopardy. Director Aragón will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 6:45p, Upstate Films, Woodstock and Saturday, Sept. 24, 9:30p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.* There will be a Spanish Ensemble, celebrating Spanish Culture at the WFF Filmmakers Party, Friday, Sept. 23, 10p at the Skytop Steakhouse & Brewing Co. in Kingston. Flamenco guitarist Javier Limón and Galician bagpiper and piano player Cristina Pato will perform on stage together for the very first time in what promises to be a seminal synergy of talent. They will be joined by tenor José Manuel Zapata and Paper Birds director and keyboard player Emilio Aragón.
FROM ISRAEL (with support from Consulate General of Israel in New York):
– DOLPHIN BOY, directed by Dani Menkin and Yonatan Nir, (U.S. Premiere)
A teenager from an Arab village in the north of Israel disconnects himself and stops speaking following a brutal beating. As a last resort before hospitalization in a mental institution, he is taken by his devoted father to be "treated" with dolphins in the Red Sea. After months of silence, he begins to talk again, but erases his past. This beautifully shot doc, filmed over the course of four years, explores both the devastating havoc that human violence can wreak upon the human soul, and the healing powers of nature and love. The directors will be attending the Q&A, Saturday, Sept. 24, 4:45p, Bearsville Theater and Sunday, Sept. 25, 1:45p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.– FAT COWS LEAN COWS, directed by Meni Elias, (World Premiere)
On the Gaza Strip border, an Israeli farmer and his two employees- a Palestinian and a Thai immigrant, work together on a struggling farm in Israel, at a time when industrial agriculture dominates and political tensions are rife. Their personal stories are a microcosm of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and the state of small farms in an age of factory farming. The producers will be attending the Q&A, Saturday, Sept. 24, 4:45p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck and Sunday, Sept. 25, 4:45p, Bearsville Theater.
* Special thanks to the Ulster County Jewish FederationFRIDAY FRIGHT NIGHT
Ti West (House of the Devil) and Jonathan Blitstein (Let Them Chirp Awhile) are bringing their newest horror films to Woodstock!– THE INNKEEPERS, directed by Ti West, (New York Premiere)
After more than 100 years of service, The Yankee Pedlar Inn is shutting its doors forever. The two last remaining employees are determined to uncover proof of what many believe to be one of New England’s most haunted hotels. As the final days draw near, they experience strange and alarming events, compelling them deeper into the long-unexplained mysteries of the inn. The producers will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 8:15p, Woodstock Playhouse and Saturday, Sept. 24, 9p, Rosendale Theater.– ANOTHER KIND, directed by Jonathan Blitstein, (World Premiere)
A group of 20-something New Yorkers drive to the Catskills for a long weekend of winter camping. It soon becomes apparent they were better off staying home. Strange and inexplicable things begin to happen, they lose all sense of direction, and after a snowy frostbitten night, begin having strange visions. They can’t distinguish dreams from reality, nor do they know a twisted surprise awaits them at the trailhead. Director Blitstein will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 11p, Woodstock Playhouse and Saturday, Sept. 24, 10p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.EXPOSURE: FILMS OF SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Sponsored by The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences
Politics, environment, religion, war and peace: WFF’s Exposure program is always in the forefront of showcasing ‘movies that matter’. The 2011 slate is extraordinary in the diversity of its offerings, newsworthiness of its subjects, and the talent of its filmmakers. Highlights include:– SEMPER FI: ALWAYS FAITHFUL, directed by Rachel Libert and Tony Hardmon
Master Sergeant Jerry Ensminger’s loyalty belonged to the Marine Corps for 25 years. But when his nine-year-old daughter dies of a rare form of leukemia, he takes on a quest that leads him to a shocking discovery: the organization to which he had pledged his loyalty was responsible for one of the largest water contamination incidents in U.S. history. His fight, and this important doc, reveals a grave injustice at North Carolina’s Camp Lejeune and a looming environmental crisis at military sites across the country. The directors will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 11:45a, Upstate Films, Woodstock and Sunday, Sept. 25, 2p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.– CAPE SPIN: AN AMERICAN POWER STRUGGLE, directed by Robbie Gemmel and John Kirby, (World Premiere)
"Give wind a chance," versus "not in my backyard" is the central conflict in this darkly humorous and profoundly serious tale of a community divided by green politics. In 2001, entrepreneur Jim Gordon proposed building a major wind farm in the middle of Nantucket Sound, fabled playground for America’s rich and famous, billing the project as a clean, green power plant that should be welcomed by all. To his chagrin, "Cape Wind" became one of the decade’s most confounding political battles. A gripping and entertaining study of eco-capitalism and grassroots democracy. The directors will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 2:30p, Bearsville Theater and Sunday, Sept. 25, 11:15a, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.– THE WELCOME, directed by Kim Shelton, (New York Premiere)
A fiercely intimate view of life after war, the fear, anger and isolation of post-traumatic stress that affects vets and family members alike. As we join them for an unusual healing retreat, we witness how the ruins of war can be transformed into the beauty of poetry. Their inspiring examples of unflinching honesty, courage and love remind us of our common humanity, always the first casualty of war. The directors will be attending the Q&A, Thursday, Sept. 22, 6p, Bearsville Theater and Saturday, Sept. 24, 7:15p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.– TAKING A CHANCE ON GOD, directed by Brendan Fay, (U.S. Premiere)
Follows the extraordinary life of 85-year-old Jesuit priest John McNeill, a former POW, co-founder of the GLBT Catholic group Dignity NY, author of The Church and the Homos-xual, and loving partner of 45 years to Charles Chiarelli. McNeil has refused to let his voice be silenced despite being expelled from the Catholic Church after forty years of faithful service. This powerful doc explores the inspiring story of faith, love and perseverance in the face of oppression and rejection. Director Fay will be attending the Q&A, Saturday, Sept. 24, 3:15p, Woodstock Playhouse.– SKATEISTAN: FOUR WHEELS AND A BOARD IN KABUL, directed by Kai Sehr, (East Coast Premiere)
"We build ramps, not bombs," say Oliver and Sharna, founders of Skateistan, an aid foundation whose goal is to bring education and equality to the overwhelmingly adolescent population of war-torn Afghanistan. Love of skateboarding reveals a rarely-seen side of Afghan culture. With the help of visiting professional skate boarders, and an outpouring of local enthusiasm, they construct a skate park in the center of Kabul. Touching on gender, ethnic and social mores in Afghanistan, Skateistan offers an exhilarating vision for the future. Screening Saturday, Sept. 24, 2:15p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck and Sunday, Sept. 25, 12p, Bearsville Theater.– POETRY OF RESILIENCE, directed by Katja Esson, (East Coast Premiere)
War, genocide and oppression: unfathomable tragedies paint a dark portrait of the human condition. And yet, out of atrocity the beauty of poetry can flow, as those who lived it attempt to make sense of it all. Through the poems and words of six extraordinary artists, comes this deeply contemplative examination of violence, society, and the reality of being an artist and survivor. Shot by Academy Award-Nominated director Esson on location from Hiroshima to Rwanda. Director Esson will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 6:45p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck and Sunday, Sept. 25, 4:30p, Upstate Films, Woodstock.
* SUNDAY POETRY BRUNCH – Join the filmmakers and poets for a champagne Sunday brunch and to hear some poetry.
Sunday, Sept. 25, 11a-1p, Bear Café– THE THING THAT HAPPENED, directed by Andrew Walton, (Short)
The Hope North Secondary School in Uganda provides a home and education for displaced children of civil war; school founder Sam Okelo’s personal account is a poetic and moving tribute to the living and the dead. Screening prior to Poetry of Resilience.– I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU HUSBAND & HUSBAND, directed by Stephanie Donnelly, (Short)
In 2004, New Paltz Mayor Jason West was criminally charged for making many couples’ dreams come true by performing two dozen same-sex marriages. Screening prior to Taking a Chance on God.FOCUS ON MUSIC: Outstanding (and often outrageous) films and performances.
What’s Woodstock Without Music? WFF’s popular music programming of iconic musicians, music as political dissent, music videos, and bands vying to be heard, along with the always fascinating BMI Music Panel, is expanding this year with an exciting, all new Live Music Concert Series curated by School of Rock founder Paul Green, WFF’s new Music Coordinator. We are delighted with this new collaboration, which will bring attendees the very best of indie music in the years come, and we are delighted to be able to present outstanding concerts every night throughout the 2011 festival!– DOWNTOWN EXPRESS, directed by David Grubin, (World Premiere)
World-renowned violinist Philippe Quint takes his acting bow in this witty, musical romance, also starring acclaimed singer/songwriter/actor Nellie McKay. Two-time Grammy nominee Quint dazzles as Sasha, a Russian immigrant and Julliard student preparing for his final recital. But things begin to go off the rails when he falls for Ramona (McKay), and joins her band. Now torn between his burgeoning classical music career and his new found passion for Ramona and her music, Sasha must decide where his music leads him. Featuring virtuoso performances. Director Grubin will attend the Q&A, Thursday, Sept. 22, 4p, Upstate Films, Woodstock and Sunday, Sept. 25, 12p, Rosendale Theater.* RELATED MUSIC PERFORMANCE: WFF 2011 KICK OFF LIVE MUSIC CONCERT SERIES
Phillipe Quint and Nellie McKay with Special Guest Lori Singer (Footloose, Short Cuts), plus Tracy Bonham with Jerry Marotta, Gorgeous Creatures, Explorers and Bazaar, Wednesday, Sept. 21, 7:30p, Bearsville Theater.– 9 PIANOS, directed by Gillian Farrell, (World Premiere)
After Hurricane Katrina, Adam Markowitz, an Upstate NY piano dealer and tuner, felt he had to do something to help New Orleans. So he loaded his truck with all the pianos that would fit and drove to New Orleans to give them away for free to clubs, schools, churches, and the musicians who keep New Orleans and its music alive. Heart-warming doc, peppered with terrific performances as the overwhelmed musicians receive their musical bounty. Director Farrell will be attending the Q&A. The film will screen with Giving Back Friday, Sept. 23, 4:30p, Upstate Films, Woodstock.*RELATED MUSIC PERFORMANCE: Jesse Mcbride, The Cotton Brothers & Adam Markowitz perform Friday, Sept.23, 8p, Photosensualis.
– LOSERS TAKE ALL, directed by Alex Steyermark, (World Premiere)
The Fingers have a dream of "making it." The trials of this 1980’s punk rock band struggling to balance friendship, love and success are at once comedic and universal. As the band members lurch, strum and drum AWAY from success, they are faced with eternal dilemmas such as: Can you sell out and still be DIY indie? Do corporate rock and punk sensibility make awful but essential bedfellows? And what’s wrong with just rock out and party hardy until you self-destruct? Solid performances and terrific vintage-style cinematography. Director Steyermark will attend the Q&A, Thursday, Sept. 22, 1:30p, Upstate Films, Woodstock and Friday, Sept. 23, 1:45p, Rosendale Theater.– FREAKS IN LOVE, directed by Skizz Cyzyk and David Koslowski, (East Coast Premiere)
The band Alice Donut earned a fierce cult following with its twisted, hard-driving songs, hitting the road like so many others, piled into vans for the endless tour that, on a good day, included a place to sleep and free beer. The film weaves vintage performance footage and interviews with music heavyweights such as producer Martin Bisi, Curt Kirkwood of Meat Puppets and Jello Biafra, who describes the band as "the missing link between R.E.M. and the B******e Surfers". Made by two music veterans of the Baltimore indie scene, this lively doc pays homage to a genuinely alternative band that remains indie to the core. The directors will be attending the Q&A, Friday, Sept. 23, 7:30p, Bearsville Theater.– THE OTHER F WORD, directed by Andrea Blaugrund Nevins, (New York Premiere)
Pennywise, Black Flag and The Circle Jerks are just a few of the punk rock groups represented in this fast-paced, surprisingly tender and wise exploration of a generation of musical rebels now facing fatherhood and middle age. How to reconcile the anti-authoritarian ethos of punk rock with the need to be a responsible authority figure to a child? An engaging and intimate portrait of a pierced and tattooed generation holding onto themselves while learning to be better fathers. Screening Thursday, Sept. 22, 8:45p, Bearsville Theater and Friday, Sept. 23, 9:30p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck.– EVERYTHING BECOMES WHOLE – SARAH FIMM, directed by Erik Montovano, (World Premiere)
Music video for "Everything Becomes Whole" from the new album "Near Infinite Possibility".
* RELATED MUSIC PERFORMANCE: Sarah Fimm performs following the screening at 10p, Friday, Sept.23, Bearsville Theater.– NO LIGHTS – YASSOU BENEDICT, directed by Steve Durand, (World Premiere)
Nostalgia comes knocking on youth’s door for the first time.
* RELATED MUSIC PERFORMANCE: Yassou Benedict performs following the screening at 10p, Friday, Sept.23, Bearsville Theater.OTHER OUTSTANDING FOCUS ON MUSIC FILMS INCLUDE:
– BREAK THE SPELL- GOGOL BORDELO, directed by Bruno Decharme
– BURNING WIGS OF SEDITION- THE EXTRA ACTION MARCHING BAND, directed by Anna Fitch and Simon Cheffins
– CALGARY – BON IVER, directed by Andre Durand and Dan Huiting
– MARIONETTE- COLDWATER JANE, directed by Beck Underwood, (World Premiere)
– MEMORY LAYNE- DOLLY ROCKER, directed by John Carter
– MISS DAISY CUTTER – THE VEILS, directed by Laen Sanches
– MOTHER – BLONDIE, directed by Laurent Rejto, (World Premiere ofDirector’s Cut)
– RUMBLESEAT- THE SADIES, directed by Michael Roberts
– WIZBOT- SEA OF BEES, directed by Aaron RosenbloomWFF 2011 LIVE MUSIC CONCERTS SERIES:
– WED. Sept. 21, 10p & THU. Sept. 22, 10p- Gene Ween Acoustic Band @ the Colony Cafe
– FRI. Sept. 23, 10:15p – SIMI STONE AND JEREMY BERNSTEIN @ the Colony Cafe
– SAT. Sept. 24, 11:30p – BETTY @ the Colony CafeAll concert tickets will be sold in advance online or at the WFF Box Office as well as at the door. Same Box Office hours apply. Concert tickets prices range from $20-$25.
FILMS WITH HUDSON VALLEY TIES:
Passionately committed to supporting regional filmmakers and film production, WFF 2011 presents a record number of more than 20 narratives, docs, shorts and music videos, either shot in the Hudson Valley or made by HV residents. This is due in large part, to the successful efforts of our sister organization, the Hudson Valley Film Commission. In addition to our screenings of Peace, Love & Misunderstanding, 9 Pianos, Taking a Chance on God, Another Kind, Mother-Blondie, Everything Becomes Whole-Sarah Fimm, Old Man River-The Five Points Band, and No Lights-Yassou Benedict, selections include:– FIGHTVILLE, directed by Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker, (New York Premiere)
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has grown from a controversial, gladiatorial sideshow into a billion-dollar phenomenon. But in sweat-soaked gyms and low-rent arenas across America, men test their mettle, fortified with the mythic promise that an ordinary man can transform into a champion. The veteran filmmaking team from the Hudson Valley, focuses not only on the battle in the cage, but on the meaning of the fight. A fascinating, thought-provoking, tense and dramatic peek into a fascinating subculture. The directors will be attending the Q&A Thursday, Sept. 22, 8p, Upstate Films, Rhinebeck and Friday, Sept. 23, 5p, Bearsville Theater.Other Outstanding Hudson Valley-related films include:
– THE SEA IS ALL I KNOW, directed By Jordan Bayne, (New York Premiere), features Oscar-winner & Stone Ridge resident Melissa Leo.
– MOTHER-BLONDIE, directed By Laurent Rejto, (World Premiere/Director’s Cut)
– ANGELS, directed By Zachary Kerschberg, (World Premiere)
– NO LIGHTS- YASSOU BENEDICT, directed by Steve Durand, (World Premiere)
– EVERYTHING BECOMES WHOLE- SARAH FIMM, directed by Erik Montovano, (World Premiere)
– NEW SKIN, directed by Vladimir de Fontenay, (World Premiere)
– GRAVITY, directed By Pamela Romanowsky, (New York Premiere)
– MOTHER’S HOUSE, directed by Davis Hall, (New York Premiere)
– A BRIDGE DELIVERED, directed by Stephen Mallon
– THE STRANGE ONES, directed by Christoper Radcliff and Lauren Wolkstein
– STEFAN, directed by Juliet Lashinsky-Revene
– BAYOU BLACK, directed by Jonas Carpignano
– BABYLAND, directed by Marc Fratello
– OLD MAN RIVER- THE FIVE POINTS BAND, directed by John Bongiorno
– BEATRICE AND BOB, directed by Kendra Elliott– NARRATIVE FEATURES:
96 MINUTES, directed by Aimee Lagos, (New York Premiere); AN ORDINARY FAMILY, directed by Mike Akel, (East Coast Premiere); ANOTHER HAPPY DAY, directed by Sam Levinson, (East Coast Premiere); ANOTHER KIND, directed by Jonathan Blitstein, (World Premiere); ANSWERS TO NOTHING, directed by Matthew Leutwyler, (World Premiere); COMING UP ROSES, directed by Lisa Albright, (World Premiere); DOWNTOWN EXPRESS, directed by David Grubin, (World Premiere); EAST FIFTH BLISS, directed by Michael Knowles, (East Coast Premiere); THE INNKEEPERS, directed by Ti West, (New York Premiere); LETTERS FROM THE BIG MAN, directed by Christopher Munch; THE LIE, directed by Joshua Leonard, (New York Premiere); LOSERS TAKE ALL, directed by Alex Steyermark, (World Premiere); MUSICAL CHAIRS, directed by Susan Seidelman, (Sneak Preview); THE OFF HOURS, directed by Megan Griffiths, (New York Premiere); ON THE ICE, directed by Andrew O. MacLean; PÁJAROS DE PAPEL (PAPER BIRDS), directed by Emilio Aragón; PEACE, LOVE, & MISUNDERSTANDING, directed by Bruce Beresford, (U.S. Premiere); PERFECT SENSE, directed by David Mackenzie, (East Coast Premiere); PONIES, directed by Nick Sandow, (World Premiere); SAHKANAGA, directed by John Henry Summerour, (New York Premiere); SILVER TONGUES, directed by Simon Arthur, (New York Premiere); TILT, directed by Viktor Chouchkov Jr., (East Coast Premiere); UNION SQUARE, directed by Nancy Savoca, (U.S. Premiere)
– NARRATIVE COMPETITION FINALISTS: 96 MINUTES; EAST FIFTH BLISS; THE LIE; ON THE ICE; SAHKANAGA; SILVER TONGUES; TILT
– DOCUMENTARY FEATURES:
9 PIANOS, directed by Gillian Farrel, (World Premiere); ADVENTURES IN PLYMPTOONS, directed by Alexia Anastasio, (North American Premeire); BOMBAY BEACH, directed by Alma Har’el; CAPE SPIN: AN AMERICAN POWER STRUGGLE, directed by Robbie Gemmel and John Kirby, (World Premiere); CORMAN’S WORLD: EXPLOITS OF A HOLLYWOOD REBEL, directed by Alex Stapleton, (East Coast Premiere); DEAF JAM, directed by Judy Lieff, (North American Premiere); DOLPHIN BOY, directed by Dani Menkin and Yonatan Nir, (U.S. Premiere); FAT COWS, LEAN COWS, directed by Men Elias, (World Premiere); FIGHTVILLE, directed by Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker, (New York Premiere); FREAKS IN LOVE, directed by Skizz Cyzyk and David Koslowski, (East Coast Premiere); GIVING BACK, directed by Meera Gandhi; KING’S PARK: STORIES FROM AN AMERICAN MENTAL INSTITUTION, directed by Lucy Winer, (World Premiere); KUMARÉ, directed by Vikram Gandhi, (New York Premiere); MORE TO LIVE FOR, directed by Noah Hutton, (New York Premiere); THE OTHER F WORD, directed by Andrea Blaugrund Nevins, (New York Premiere); POETRY OF RESILIENCE, directed by Katja Esson, (East Coast Premiere); SEMPER FI: ALWAYS FAITHFUL, directed by Tony Hardmon and Rachel Libert; SKATEISTAN: FOUR WHEELS AND A BOARD IN KABUL, directed by Kai Sehr, (East Coast Premiere); SOMETHING VENTURED, directed by Daniel Geller and Danya Goldfine; TAKING A CHANCE ON GOD, directed by Brendan Fay, (World Premiere); UNRAVELED, directed by Marc H. Simon, (New York Premiere); THE WELCOME, directed by Kim Shelton, (New York Premiere); I’M CAROLYN PARKER: THE GOOD,THE MAD, THE BEAUTIFUL, directed by Jonathan Demme, (U.S. Premiere)
– DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION FINALISTS: BOMBAY BEACH; CAPE SPIN: AN AMERICAN POWER STRUGGLE; DEAF JAM; DOLPHIN BOY; SEMPER FI: ALWAYS FAITHFUL; SKATEISTAN: FOUR WHEELS AND A BOARD IN KABUL; UNRAVELED
– AWARD JURY:
An outstanding group of industry leaders:
Feature Narrative: Debra Granik, Timothy Hutton, Richard Abramowitz
Documentary Feature: Stephen Nemeth, Deirdre Haj, Barbara Kopple
Documentary Shorts: Lisa Gossels, Todd Wider, Hugo Perez
Narrative Shorts: Jonathan Gray, Amy Devra Gossels, Marie Therese Guirgis
Student Shorts: Joseph Muszynski, Lori Singer, Isil Bagdadi
Animation: Chris Wedge, Signe Baumane, Bill Plympton
James Lyons Award for Best Editing Narrative: Sabine Hoffman, Craig McKay, Kate Williams
James Lyons Award for Editing Documentary: Doug Abel, Sabine Hoffman, Sabine Krayenbühl
Cinematography: Haskell Wexler– WORLD CLASS SHORTS: The WFF has garnered a reputation for screening some of the most exciting films of the genre! The WFF 2011 Shorts Program includes: Animation; Music; Short Docs; Family Feuds; Darkness Inside; Life, Love, Death; Lost & Found; Love is a Bitch; Remember to Smile; and Teen Films, as well as Shorts shown before features. This year, many of our shorts were shot and produced locally in the Hudson Valley! For a complete listing of Shorts, visit www.woodstockfilmfestival.com.
WFF MAVERICK AWARDS CEREMONY
The annual WFF Gala Maverick Awards Ceremony has become one of the most talked-about events in the world of independent film and across the Hudson Valley, attracting nearly 500 filmmakers, industry and community leaders. Saturday, Sept. 24, 9p at BSP Studios in Kingston. The event is open to the public with limited seating. Tickets are available at the Box Office.
-Actor MARK RUFFALO will receive the very first Meera Gandhi, Giving Back award.
-Actress ELLEN BARKIN will receive an Excellence in Acting award.
–ROBIN BRONK (CEO, The Creative Coalition), will receive the WFF Honorary Trailblazer Award.The Awards Ceremony also includes presentation of awards for Best Feature Narrative, Best Feature Documentary, Best Short Narrative, Best Short Documentary, Best Student Short, the Blue Sky Studios Animation Award, the James Lyons Editing Award, the Diane Seligman Awards and the Haskell Wexler Award for Best Cinematography.
HOUSE BAND AT THE 2011 MAVERICK AWARDS GALA – PAUL GREEN’S BAND OF MONKEY’S
Paul Green, founder of School of Rock, subject of the documentary Rock School and inspiration for Jack Black in Richard Linklater’s hilarious film School of Rock, along with a number of his former students, will provide the awards show music, showcasing themes from the some of the most popular movies ever made.–PANELS:
–MUSIC IN FILM –moderated by BMI’s Doreen Ringer-Ross:
George C. Clinton, David Grubin, Michael Bacon, Susan Jacobs, Amy Rosen, Alex Steyermark
–ACTOR’S DIALOGUE –moderated by Martha Frankel: Guest TBA
–AMAZING WOMEN IN FILM –moderated by Thelma Adams:
Robin Bronk, Susan Seidelman, Nancy Savoca, Debra Granik, Meera Gandhi, Lisa Rosman
–THE ISSUE DOCUMENTARY -moderated by Stephen Nemeth:
Barbara Kopple, Ron Mann, Jedd Wider, Lisa Gossels, Noah Hutton, Petra Epperlein
–FUNDING YOUR PROJECT THE 21ST CENTURY WAY -moderated by Jonathan Gray:
Joana Vicente, Kat Popiel, Reva Goldberg
–BLUE SKY STUDIOS/ANIMATION -moderated by Chris Wedge:
Vicki Saulls, Galen Chu, Renato Falcão
–WHY DO SOME FILMS MAKE IT AND OTHER DON’T? -moderated by Bingham Ray:
Michael Silberman, John Sloss, Dan Berger, Peter Saraf
–INTERNATIONAL FILM PRODUCTION -moderated by David D’Arcy:
Katja Esson, Viktor Chouchkov Jr., Hilla Medalia, Emilio Aragón, Jason Kliot– TICKETS AND LOGISTICS
Tickets will be available for purchase as of Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at the Festival Box Office, 13 Rock City Rd. The Box Office will be open Aug. 31-Sept. 17, Wednesday-Sunday from noon-6pm. ONLINE SALES AND PHONE SALES GO LIVE on Sept. 3 at the festival’s secure website, www.woodstockfilmfestival.com. A limited number of special Full Festival Passes are already available for purchase.
Beginning September 18 through the end of the festival, the Box Office will be open every day from 9am-7pm. Reserve early. Shows tend to sell out quickly. Ticket prices for WFF events range from $5-$75. Panels are $15. Concerts range from $20-$25. There are also a limited number of tickets available for the Gala Honorary Maverick Awards Ceremony. For more information contact the Box Office at (845) 810-0131 or visit www.woodstockfilmfestival.com. Single purchase tickets will also be available at each screening and concert venue.–WFF/HVFC CAPITAL CAMPAIGN: We did it! The Woodstock Film Festival has a new home. This year, WFF, in partnership with our sister organization, The Hudson Valley Film Commission, has purchased the building used as our Box Office to serve as a year-round Film Center. Located in the center of Woodstock, it has already become home base for the festival, providing space for film workshops, film production, special events, and casting for local productions, among other purposes. Please help us continue fantastic film programs by supporting our Capital Campaign with whatever contribution you can afford here.
– SPONSORS:
Gold Sponsors: 120 DBFILMS, MARKERTEK
Silver Sponsors: A&E INDIEFILMS, TIME MAGAZINE
Superstar Sponsors: BMI, BROOKLYN BREWERY, KETEL ONE VODKA, LOWEL LIGHT, WDST
Award Sponsors: BLUE SKY STUDIOS, THE GIVING BACK FOUNDATION, JAMES LYONS MEMORIAL FUND, PANAVISION, NY
Foundation Support: THE ACADEMY OF MOTION PICTURE ARTS AND SCIENCES,PERRY AND MARTIN GRANOFF FOUNDATION,EXPERIMENTAL TV FOUNDATION, ALFRED LEE AND PETER MAYER FOUNDATION, THE KLOCK FOUNDATION, AMERICAN PEACE PRIZE FOUNDATION,
Event Sponsors: BACKSTAGE STUDIO PRODUCTIONS, MARY GIULIANI CATERING & EVENTS, SPANISH CONSULATE OF NY, BAREFOOT WINES, SMART WATER, ZEVIA SODA, NEW WORLD HOME COOKING, JEFFREY MILSTEIN PHOTOGRAPHY, SKYTOP STEAKHOUSE, LIBATION NYC– FEDERAL, STATE, AND LOCAL SUPPORT: New York State Council on the Arts, Dutchess County Arts Council, Ulster County Tourism.
FOR MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE 2011 WFF LINEUP,
PLEASE VISIT WWW.WOODSTOCKFILMFESTIVAL.COM.2011 WOODSTOCK FILM FESTIVAL
COMPLETE FILM PROGRAM A-Z:
9 PIANOS Dir. Gillian Farrell
36, THE Dir. Nic Weinfeld
96 MINUTES Dir. Aimeé Lagos
A BRIDGE DELIVERED Dir. Stephen Mallon
ACCUMULONIMBUS Dir. Andy Kennedy
ADVENTURES IN PLYMPTOONS Dir. Alexia Anastasio
AFRICA DIARY Dir. L.M. Kit Carson
ANGELS Dir. Zachary Kerschberg
AN ORDINARY FAMILY Dir. Mike Akel
ANOTHER HAPPY DAY Dir. Sam Levinson
ANOTHER KIND Dir. Jonathan Blitstein
ANSWERS TO NOTHING Dir. Matthew Leutwyler
APPLE, THE Dir. Jason Farrell
APRÈS MOI Dir. Paul Emile Boucher, Thomas Bozovic, Madeleine Charruaud, Dorianne Fibleuil, Benjamin Flouw, Mickaël Riciotti, Antoine Robert
BABYLAND Dir. Marc Fratello
BACKWATER GOSPEL, THE Dir. Bo Mathorne
BANG Dir. Holle Singer
BAYOU BLACK Dir. Jonas Carpigano
BEATRICE & BOB Dir. Kendra Elliott
BIG CITY, SMALL TOWN Dir. Stefanos Tai
BLOCK Dir. Chadd Harbold
BOMBAY BEACH Dir. Alma Har’el
BOOK GIRL & CABINET GIRL Dir. Jane Wu
BREAK THE SILENCE Dir. Shaniece Bouldin
BREAK THE SPELL – GORGOL BORDELO Dir. Bruno Decharme
BROTHER ROB Dir. Sofian Khan
BUNNY Dir. Robert Snow
BURNING WIGS OF SEDITION – THE EXTRA ACTION MARCHING BAND Dir. Anna Fitch and Simon Cheffins
CALGARY – BON IVER Dir. Andre Durand and Dan Huiting
CAPE SPIN: AN AMERICAN POWER STRUGGLE Dir. Robbie Gemmel and John Kirby
CATAPLEXY Dir. John Salcido
COME ON DOWN AND PICK ME UP Dir. Jon Bougher and Nicholas Corrao
COMING UP ROSES Dir. Lisa Albright
CORMAN’S WORLD: EXPLOITS OF A HOLLYWOOD REBEL Dir. Alex Stapleton
CRAZY BEATS STRONG EVERY TIME Dir. Moon Molson
DEAD IN THE ROOM Dir. Adam Pertofsky
DEAF JAM Dir. Judy Lieff
DEEP, THE Dir. Pes
DOWNTOWN EXPRESS Dir. David Grubin
DOLPHIN BOY Dir. Dani Menkin and Yonatan Nir
EAST FIFTH BLISS Dir. Michael Knowles
ELLIOTT ERWITT: "I BARK AT DOGS" Dir. Douglas J. Sloan
ENRIQUE WRECKS THE WORLD Dir. David Chai
ESPANTAPÁJAROS (SCARECROW) Dir. Blanca Esteve Stéphant
EVERYTHING BECOMES WHOLE – SARAH FIMM Dir. Erik Montovano
EVERYTHING THAT DIES Dir. Russell Carter
FANTASTIC FLYING BOOKS OF MR. MORIS LESSMORE Dir. William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg
FAT COWS, LEAN COWS Dir. Meni Elias
FIGHTVILLE Dir. Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker
FREAKS IN LOVE Dir. Skizz Cyzyk and David Koslowski
GIRAFFE-STRONAUGHT Dir. Jacob Kafka
GIVING BACK Dir. Meera Gandhi
GOOD MEN Dir. Br ian Connors
GRANDPA LOOKED LIKE WILLIAM POWELL Dir. David Levy
GRAVITY Dir. Pamela Romanowsky
HURDY GURDY Dir. Daniel Seideneder
I’M CAROLYN PARKER: THE GOOD, THE MAD, THE BEAUTIFUL Dir. Jonathan Demme
INNKEEPERS, THE Dir. Ti West
I NOW PRONOUNCE YOU HUSBAND & HUSBAND Dir. Stephanie Donnelly
KINGS PARK: STORIES FROM AN AMERICAN MENTAL INSTITUTION Dir. Lucy Winer
KNIFE Dir. James Johnston
KUMARÉ Dir. Vikram Gandhi
LETTERS FROM THE BIG MAN Dir. Christopher Munch
LIE, THE Dir. Joshua Leonard
LOSERS TAKE ALL Dir. Alex Steyermark
LUMINARIS Dir. Juan Pablo Zaramella
MANHATTAN MELODY Dir. Sasha Gordon
MARIONETTE – COLDWATER JANE Dir. Beck Underwood
MASKS Dir. Patrick Smith
MEMORY LAYNE – DOLLY ROCKER MOVEMENT Dir. John Charter
MILLHAVEN Dir. Bartek Kulas
MISS DAISY CUTTERS – THE VEILS Dir. Laen Sanches
MORE TO LIVE FOR Dir. Noah Hutton
MORIR CADA DÍA (DYING EVERY DAY) Dir. Aitor Echevarría
MOTHER – BLONDIE Dir. Laurent Rejto
MOTHER’S HOUSE Dir. Davis Hall
MUSICAL CHAIRS Dir. Susan Seidelman
NEW SKIN Dir. Vladimir de Fontenay
NO LIGHTS – YASSOU BENEDICT Dir. Steve Durand
OFF HOURS, THE Dir. Megan Griffiths
OLD MAN RIVER – THE FIVE POINTS BAND Dir. John Bongiorno
ON THE ICE Dir. Andrew O. MacLean
OTHER F WORD, THE Dir. Andrea Nevins
PÁJAROS DE PAPEL (PAPER BIRDS) Dir. Emilio Aragón
PAMPELIŠKA (DANDELION) Dir. Laurel Parmet
PEACE, LOVE, & MISUNDERSTANDING Dir. Bruce Beresford
PERFECT SENSE Dir. David Mackenzie
PLACE STAMP HERE Dir. Joy Vaccese, Noelle Melody and Kelly Sharp
POETRY OF RESILIENCE Dir. Katja Esson
PONIES Dir. Nick Sandow
RECORDER EXAM, THE Dir. Bora Kim
RUMBLESEAT – THE SADIES Dir. Michael Roberts
SAHKANAGA Dir. John Henry Summerour
SEA IS ALL I KNOW, THE Dir. Jordan Bayne
SECRET CLUB Dir. Ben Kadie
SEDATED SEAT Dir. Ethan Oberman
SEEDS OF HOPE Dir. Imani Peterkin & Mohamed Gardner
SEMPER FI: ALWAYS FAITHFUL Dir. Tony Hardmon and Rachel Libert
SHED, THE Dir. Brendan Elmore
SILVER TONGUES Dir. Simon Arthur
SKATEISTAN: FOUR WHEELS AND A BOARD IN KABUL Dir. Kai Sehr
SMILE Dir. Lauren Elmer
SOMETHING LEFT, SOMETHING TAKEN Dir. Max Porter and Ru Kuwahata
SOMETHING VENTURED Dir. Daniel Geller and Danya Goldfine
SPECIAL THINGS TO DO Dir. T.J. Misny
STEFAN Dir. Juliet Lashinsky-Revene
STRANGE ONES, THE Dir. Christopher Radcliff and Lauren Wolkstein
SUICIDE: AN EXCERPT FROM "ROCKS IN MY POCKET" Dir. Signe Baumane
SUNNY BOY Dir. Jane Gull
TAKING A CHANCE ON GOD Dir. Brendan Fay
TASNIM Dir. Elite Zexer
THING THAT HAPPENED, THE Dir. Andrew Walton
TILT Dir. Viktor Chouchkov Jr.
TIME FREAK Dir. Andrew Bowler
TMZ MUSIC VIDEO Dir. Bill Plympton
TRUE COLORS Dir. Anthony Onah
UNION SQUARE Dir. Nancy Savoca
UNRAVELED Dir. Marc H. Simon
WELCOME, THE Dir. Kim Shelton
WE’RE LEAVING Dir. Zachary Treitz
WHAT YOU BECOME Dir. Christopher Finn
WIZBOT – SEA OF BEES Dir. Aaron Rosenbloom
WOODY/BEFORE/ALLEN Dir. Masha Vasyukova
YOU HAVE THE RIGHT TO AN ATTORNEY Dir. Matt Bockelman2011 WFF LIST OF PREMIERES
19 World Premieres
9 PIANOS Dir. Gillian Farrel
ANGELS Dir. Zachary Kerschberg
ANOTHER KIND Dir. Jonathan Blitstein
BIG CITY, SMALL TOWN Dir. Stefanos Tai
CAPE SPIN: AN AMERICAN POWER STRUGGLE Dir. Robbie Germmel and John Kirby
COME ON DOWN AND PICK ME UP Dir. Jon Bougher and Nicholas Corrao
COMING UP ROSES Dir. Lisa Albright
DOWNTOWN EXPRESS Dir. David Grubin
EVERYTHING BECOMES WHOLE – SARAH FIMM Dir. Erik Montovano
FAT COWS, LEAN COWS Dir. Meni Elias
KINGS PARK: STORIES FROM AN AMERICAN MENTAL INSTITUTION Dir. Lucy Winer
LOSERS TAKE ALL Dir. Alex Steyermark
MARIONETTE – COLDWATER JANE Dir. Beck Underwood
MOTHER – BLONDIE Dir. Laurent Rejto
NO LIGHTS – YASSOU BENEDICT Dir. Steve Durand
PONIES Dir. Nick Sandow
SUICIDE: AN EXCERPT FROM ROCKS IN MY POCKET Dir. Signe Baumane
SPECIAL THINGS TO DO Dir. T.J. Misny
WOODY/BEFORE/ALLEN Dir. Masha Vasyukova4 North American Premieres
ADVENTURES IN PLYMPTOONS Dir. Alexia Anastasio
DEAF JAM Dir. Judy Lieff
HURDY GURDY Dir. Daniel Seideneder
MORIR CADA DÍA (DYING EVERY DAY) Dir. Aitor Echevarría5 United States Premieres
DOLPHIN BOY Dir. Dani Menkin and Yonatan Nir
I’M CAROLYN PARKER: THE GOOD, THE MAD, THE BEAUTIFUL Dir. Jonathan Demme
PEACE, LOVE, & MISUNDERSTANDING Dir. Bruce Beresford
RECORDER EXAM, THE Dir. Bora Kim
UNION SQUARE Dir. Nancy Savoca13 East Coast Premieres
AN ORDINARY FAMILY Dir. Mike Akel
ANOTHER HAPPY DAY Dir. Sam Levinson
CORMAN’S WORLD: EXPLOITS OF A HOLLYWOOD REBEL Dir. Alex Stapleton
EAST FIFTH BLISS Dir. Michael Knowles
ESPANTAPÁJAROS (SCARECROW) Dir. Blanca Esteve Stéphant
FREAKS IN LOVE Dir. Skizz Cyzyk and David Koslowski
MANHATTAN MELODY Dir. Sasha Gordon
PAMPELIŠKA (DANDELION) Dir. Laurel Parmet
PERFECT SENSE Dir. David Mackenzie
POETRY OF RESILIENCE Dir. Katja Esson
SKATEISTAN: FOUR WHEELS AND A BOARD IN KABUL Dir. Kai Sehr
STEFAN Dir. Juliet Lashinsky-Revene
TILT Dir. Viktor Chouchkov Jr.21 New York Premieres
96 MINUTES Dir. Aimeé Lagos
BANG Dir. Holle Singer
FANTASTIC FLYING BOOKS OF MR. MORIS LESSMORE Dir. William Joyce and Brandon Oldenburg
FIGHTVILLE Dir. Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker
GOOD MEN Dir. Brian Connors
GRAVITY Dir. Pamela Romanowsky
INNKEEPERS, THE Dir. Ti West
KUMARÉ Dir. Vikram Gandhi
LIE, THE Dir. Joshua Leonard
MORE TO LIVE FOR Dir. Noah Hutton
MOTHER’S HOUSE Dir. Davis Hall
OFF HOURS, THE Dir. Megan Griffiths
OTHER F WORD, THE Dir. Andrea Nevins
SAHKANAGA Dir. John Henry Summerour
SEA IS ALL I KNOW, THE Dir. Jordan Bayne
SILVER TONGUES Dir. Simon Arthur
STRANGE ONES The Dir. Christopher Radcliff and Lauren Wolkstein
SUNNY BOY Dir. Jane Gull
TASNIM Dir. Elite Zexer
UNRAVELED Dir. Marc H. Simon
WELCOME, THE Dir. Kim Shelton
