RIIFF WINS NEW ENGLAND EMMY FOR ITS 2007 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS / FESTIVAL PROMOTIONS
The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) – won a New England Emmy Award for its promotional campaign that showcased the Oscar-qualifying event. The trophy was presented in the packed ballroom of the Boston Marriott Copley Place for the 31st Annual Boston/New England Emmy Awards.
The promotional campaign featured two spots. Entitled "No Excuses," the PSA's was created and directed by Providence resident, William Smyth. Miraj Berry wrote the script and composed the score, while George T. Marshall, Executive Director of RIIFF served as the Producer. The campaign featured the talents of Richard Donnelly and Phyllis Kay of Trinity Repertory Company. The spots aired in July and August 2007 on WJAR TV, Rhode Island’s NBC affiliate.
“This campaign would not have existed without the creativity and commitment of William Smyth and Miraj Berry,” noted George T. Marshall, who accepted the award. “The edgy, memorable spots have served to brand the Festival and created quite a buzz when they were released last year.”
Marshall noted that he and Smyth have worked together since 1986 when Smyth was a film studies major at Rhode Island College and he was an Assistant Professor of Communications.
“Bill has always had an amazing visual sensibility and his work continually surprises and inspires me,” Marshall noted.
This marks the third time Public Service Announcements produced by RIIFF been nominated for Emmy Awards. This marks the second win. All spots were created and directed by William Smyth.
Also winning an Emmy that evening was Rhode Island director, Cherry Arnold. Her film, “Buddy: The Rise and Fall of America’s Most Notorious Mayor,” which aired on WJAR, had its World Premiere at the Rhode Island International Film Festival in 2005 where it won the Viola M. Marshall Audience Choice Award.
To see a complete list of this year's nominees, please click here.
RIIFF CITED BY MOVIEMAKER MAGAZINE AS "ONE OF THE TOP 25 FILM FESTIVALS WORTH THE ENTRY FEE"
The Spring edition of "Moviemaker" has once again cited the Rhode Island International Film Festival as one of the best investments a filmmaker can make when they look for Festivals to enter.
The editors of the quarterly publication noted "with the average festival entry fee edging ever closer to $50, you need to be smart about the festivals to which you're submitting." RIIFF was listed as one of the "25 festival gems" that are "worth every penny they charge for their entry fee."
The profile on RIIFF noted that the number of screenings throughout the year that were given to selected films to the festival, from "You Be the Judge Nights" to "Best of Fest" events at libraries, colleges and arts organizations, plus the opportunity to be seen at partner festivals, notably the Guangzhou International Documentary Film Festival in China.
Other FestIvals that made the list included AFI Dallas, Cinequest, Ann Arbor Film Festival, Cucalorus Film Festival, the Independent Film Festival of Boston, Nashville Film Festival, Palm Springs International Short Film Festival & Film Market and the DC Shorts Film Festival.
Japan America Society of Boston Honors Vernon Alden; Richard Gere Keynote Speaker
The Japan America Society of Boston's annual dinner honored their long-time Board member (and friend of RIIFF), Vernon Alden, on Wednesday, May 28th. It was a poignant evening for the packed house at the Boston Westin Waterfront Hotel. The evening was crowned by keynote speaker, and guest of honor, Richard Gere who screened five minutes from his latest film "Hatchiko: a Dog's Story," which is still in production.
Music For a While Performs "Sentmental Journey" for a memorable evening of song
It was a very pleasant evening on Friday, May 30th as Music for a While held their first-ever reunion at the Columbus Theatre Arts Center. The nostalgic concert benefits the Joseph and Viola Marshall Scholarship Fund for high school and college students in the study of the film and media arts.
WHAT'S UP AT THE COLUMBUS...
We've received a number of emails and phone calls about the Columbus Theatre Arts Center in Providence. Anyone who drove by the building on Monday, June 9th, saw the windows boarded up and a chain link fence around the front. The marquee signage simply said "Closed."
Well, not quite.
Director Lasse Halstrom, actors Richard Gere and Joan Allen and a large production crew were on hand to shoot inside and around the theatre for the upcoming feature film, "Hachiko: A Dog's Story." This was all exciting stuff and such a wonderful thing for the Columbus and our goals to spur its restoration.
America loses an acting legend; the world loses a gifted artist:
Paul Newman dies at age 83
The iconic actor, Paul Newman, was an Academy Award-winner, director, and noted philanthropist. His worked shaped and determined the role of the male lead in cinema from the 1950's to the present. He has left an amazing legacy for which we all grateful. It can truly be said that Paul was someone who actually made a diference.
We extend out heartfelt condolences to his wife, Joanne, his children, family and friends.
RIIFF Opening Night on Tuesday, August 5th is a Gala Affair...
Join actor John Ratzenberger and filmmakers from across the Globe for a spectacular evening at the Providence Performing Arts Center.
A brilliant and unforgettable selection of short films from around the world await an anticipating audience at the August 5th Opening Ceremony of the 12th AnnualRhode Island International Film Festival. The night’s exhilarating line-up will showcase some of the finest examples of independent and international short films. Chosen from over 3,000 submissions, the stimulating selection will be shown in the elegant Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC), 220 Weybosset Street.
The Master of Ceremonies for the evening is actor John Ratzenberger who is most remembered as Cliff Clavin from “Cheers!” As the legendary trademark voice for Disney/ Pixar Studios, John has been heard in “Toy Story, “A Bug’s Life,” “Cars,” “Toy Story 2,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo,” “Ratatouille,” “WALL-E,” and the upcoming “Toy Story 3.” His latest feature film, “The Village Barbershop,” will have its world premiere with the Rhode Island International Film Festival at the Columbus Theatre Arts Center on Wednesday night, August 6th at 7:00 p.m.
RIIFF’s Opening Night Program will honor the “Art of the Short Film,” a signature theme for the Festival. Some of the best short films that the 2008 festival has to offer will be showcased between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. on the grand 50-foot screen in PPAC, with major support from of HB Communications of North Haven, Connecticut. HB Communications and Sony Corporation will be showcasing the latest media equipment in the lobby of the theatre and providing hands-on opportunities for attendees.
The films screened will represent an array of genres saluting RIIFF’s unique status as the lone film festival in New England that is a qualifying event for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences “Oscar”. There are more than 7,000 total film festivals worldwide; only 61 have been granted this prestigious distinction. You can buy your tickets at the door •See the Film schedule here...
RIIFF RECESSION BUSTER TICKETING PACKAGES FOR 2008
The staff and board of the Rhode Island International Film Festival are fully aware that times are tough and money is tight. Most of us are limited in how we spend our disposable income. Gasoline has hit record highs, forcing many to limit unnecessary travel. According to economists, 11 states in the US are in recession. Rhode Island is one of the 11 — the only one in New England.
We don't have a magic bullet to solve the problem, but we can make the Festival experience a bit less of a burden and provide an encouragement to those who may want to attend but have to watch their money.
For a limited time, RIIFF will be issuing a"RI RECESSION BUSTER PACKAGE"which can be purchased online. We think you'll find it a sweet deal.
The"RI RECESSION BUSTER PACKAGE"offers a Festival Six-Pack (that's 6 films for the price of 4; valued at $60 and retailing for $40) and an Opening Night Film Screening Ticket (valued at $20) to our Gala Opening at the Providence Performing Arts Center (PPAC) on Tuesday, August 5th.
The cost: $45.
That's an $80 value at almost 50% off; a $35 savings! And best of all, a Festival Six-Pack is good year round for all RIIFF events and we allow you to use it for multiple guests.
DUE TO POPULAR DEMAND, this special package has been extended until Thursday, July 31st!
For more information and to order the "RI RECESSION BUSTER PACKAGE"click here...
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Key Events of the RIIFF 2008:
Month of December: Annual Christmas in Newport. The emphasis is on "community" as Newport celebrates the holiday season with this exceptional month-long program.
Founded in 1971, Christmas in Newport began as a two-week festival that celebrated the noncommercial traditions of the holiday season. Now in its 38th year, the annual program boasts multiple activities for nearly each day of the December calendar.
In a community collaboration among residents, businesses and the city, only clear bulbs illuminate the scenic harbor and wharves, the restored colonials of the Point and Historic Hill sections, and the Victorian splendor of Bellevue Avenue.
The lights are meant to simulate candlelight, and are the brainchild of Christmas in Newport founder Ruth Myers, who wished to recapture the candlelit holidays of bygone days. With a volunteer base numbering 1500, the non-profit organization, Christmas in Newport, raises thousands of dollars for charity each year. In keeping with the true spirit of the season, any event listed in the annual program must be free of charge or must benefit a non-profit institution or charity.
For more information about Christmas in Newport, call their hot line at (401) 849-6454, or visit their web site at http://www.christmasinnewport.org/ (courtesy of Pirata Media). For a listing of accommodations in the Newport area, please write the Gateway Information Center at 23 America's Cup Avenue or call (800) 326-6030.
December 16:Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
December 7-9th: International Film Festival Summit.
The INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL SUMMIT (IFFS) is the annual conference and trade show for professionals from the film festival industry. The International Film Festival Summit provides a platform for the community to explore ways to collaborate and promote the advancement of the film festival industry. This is a place to dialogue with your peers, share insights and gain knowledge that will help you grow your film festival and keep it thriving.
The IFFS is dedicated to providing resources, information and avenues of communication for industry professionals, vendors, & anyone committed to the film festival industry. It is committed to the idea that film festivals are an important cultural celebration, a powerful voice in our society, and increasingly play a vital role in connecting not only the local communities they serve, but the world globally.
Join RIIFF Staff on Monday, December 8th for the following panel discussion:
4:00 pm- 5:00 pm Building a Culture of Community Outreach
Community involvement is a vital component of any successful film festival. Partnering with other local organizations, working with schools, education outreach programs are just a few of the ways that festivals can engage and support its community. This accomplished group of panelists will discuss how their festivals give back to community resulting in better attendance and increased support.
Mark Steele, Director of Operations, Tribeca Film Festival
Lee Ann Kim, Executive Director, San Diego Asian Film Festival George T. Marshall, Founder & Executive Director, Rhode Island Int'l Film Festival
Randy Levy, Director, KIDS FIRST! Film Festival
For more information about the IFFS, its programming or attending, please click here...
November - December: The Second Annual Short Short Story Film Festival! Featuring films from all over the world, lovingly harvested by the folks here at MergingArts Productions. This year's festival premieres Thanksgiving weekend (Saturday, November 29) at Red River Theatres, 11 South Main Street, Concord, New Hampshire USA, and travels the following weekend (Saturday, December 6) to The Latchis Theatre, 50 Main Street, Brattleboro, VT. For information on film submissions, click here...
November 19th: Home Across Lands, a Special Screening to Benefit the International Institute Rhode Island. In HOME ACROSS LANDS you will learn how the International Institute Rhode Island (IIRI) maintains, strengthens, and supports a refugee population's sense of community from their native country to the United States. The film will focus on chronicling the journey of newly arrived Kunaman refugees as they strive to become self-reliant, invested participants in their new home. The Columbus Theatre, Providence at 7:00 pm. For more information,please click here...
November 14-16th: 2nd Annual Ruff Cutz Conference.We are once again very pleased to sponsor and support this exceptional regional exposition that builds bridges among filmmakers, the industry and new technologies. Hosted at Boston University Center For Digital Imaging Arts, come participate in a live 3 day weekend event full of film screenings, workshops and seminars. Explore the conference combined Trade Show & Exhibition displays revealing tools for development and productivity utilized by both filmmakers and digital creatives. Network with representatives of regional, national and international companies that promote their services and organizations supporting independent filmmaking and the digital culture. Discover current industry issues at workshops and discussions, get hands-on advice at mentor sessions, and enjoy Boston's unique brand of hospitality (and great food). It's also your chance to see the best new independent films, and mingle with filmmakers, film lovers, studio executives, and journalists, with dozens of films and daytime panels! For ticketing information, click here...
Saturday, November 8th: THINGS THEY CARRY: American Vets Confront the Effects of War.
2 pm in Janikies Theatre, Bryant University, Smithfield, RI. .Film screening and discussion in honor of Veterans' Day. The Rhode Island International Film Festival, the College of Arts and Sciences, and ShrinkWrap Productions will host a special free screening and panel discussion. Donna Bassin's award-winning documentary, "Leave No Soldier." A panel discussion will follow the screening and focus on the treatment and support available to returning soldiers as they reintegrate themselves into civilian life. The panel will include Bassin, Jan Barry, and local military and VA representatives.Free to the general public.
Coming October 23-26th: This year's programming promises to be truly amazing with major premieres, booksigning, a walking tour and even a multi-media concert we are calling "Malice Aforethought." There will be something for everyone with our expanded programming that will take place across the state. It's four days of horror, murder, mayhem and the best independent film work that has been submitted to us from around the globe. Ground zero for this event will once again be the spookily historic Columbus Theatre in Providence. Special midnight screenings at the Cable Car Cinema.Click here to learn more...
We are very proud to be presenting this season a unique and amazing new multi-media program; featuring some of our region's most gifted musical artists:
Malice Aforethought
Ghoulish Halloween Fun with a musical motif!
October 24th at 8:00 p.m. October 26th at 3:00 p.m. Columbus Theatre Arts Center, 270 Broadway, Providence
Silent films provide a backdrop to the RI International Horror Film Festival’s presentation of “Malice Aforethought.” Musical selections from Tales of Hoffmann, Hansel and Gretel, and Gilbert and Sullivan will set the mood. Featured are Lorna Jane Norris and Kara Lund, sopranos; Ethan Bremner, tenor; Vaughn Bryner, baritone; and Matthew Larson, pianist. Kara Lund is the musical director. Tickets range between $20 - $30 (group, senior and student discounts are available, call RIIFF at 401.861.4445.
October 21st : Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. This year's program kicks off the RI International Horror Film Festival! Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
October 2-4th: New Media & the Global Diaspora: A symposium for the humanities. This symposium focuses primarily on the migrations of the past 100 years and how the “living traditions” transmitted by these communities are continually subject to loss, gain and interpretation. Media developed during this same period play a role, both direct and indirect, in this process as these traditions become transplanted into their “new home.”The symposium has the following objectives: • To encourage academic discourse focused on transnational migratory populations and the role new media plays in transmitting and sustaining their living traditions. • To create a forum for researchers in the liberal arts and other disciplines studying the nature, significance and consequence of global migration. • To provide a concert performance of traditional music and dance illustrating the vitality of these living traditions. Co-sponsored by the Global Communication Program and the Peggy & Marc Spiegel Center for Global and International Programs, Roger Williams University in Bristol, Rhode Island. For more information, see the schedule of presentations, or to attend, please click here...
Summer of 2008: Movies on the Block.Bring your friends and family to watch your favorite flicks on Providence's only outdoor movie screen. Once again, RIIFF is pleased to be collaborating with Michael Corrente and Michael Corso and presenting some of our best short films prior to each screening. Every Thursday during the months of June, July, August and September movies will begin at dusk. Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This a free event and open to the public! (The calendar is listed below)
Month of September: The Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival. The Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival (GJCFF) is a new initiative aimed at introducing authentic Chinese culture to American audiences. It is a collaboration between the US-China Institute and Confucius Institute at Bryant University, the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) and the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities. To learn more, click here
September 25th: Movies on the Block. Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This week the film is Top Gun.
September 21st: National Neighborhood Day. Special screening and partnership with the West Broadway Neighborhood Assciation (WBNA), Providence. The event will be free and open to the public.
September 18th: Movies on the Block. Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This week the film is Moonstruck.
September 11th: Movies on the Block. Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week the film is Forrest Gump.
September 4th: Movies on the Block. Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week the film is Star Wars
August 28-29th:Annual Best of Fest Night at the Courthouse Center for the Arts. Show time at 7:00 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
Thursday August 28th at 7:00 pm
Absolutely Positive (33 minutes) From the Netherlands Dir. by Kate Brown Second Prize-Best Short. Following the death of his mother, sixteen year old Dennis must grapple with his aggression and the secret he must reveal to win the heart of a girl he has fallen for. More info at www.katebrown.nl
El Mono (4 m.) Dir. by Hyeseung Lee Second Prize-Best Animation. A girl imagines her own little vacation to escape from her stressful day.
Gone Fishing (13 m.) From the U.K. Dir. by Chris Jones Grand Prize-Best Short. A boy and an old man come to terms with bereavement through their shared love of fishing. More info at: www.livingspirit.com
Hakim (15 m.) From Germany Dir. by Ismail Sahin International Humanitarian Award. A heartwarming story of spirited young boy in Africa who loses his mother to aids and finds his home in an orphan village.
Parachute (11 m.) Dir. by Lucas Fleischer & Paul Grellong First Prize-Best Comedy Short. A precocious young boy strikes up an unlikely friendship with a slacker in his thirties. More info at www.parachutemovie.com
Romans 12:20 (26 m.) From the U.K. Dir. by The Shammasian Brothers. Grand Prize-International Discovery Award. A notorious bouncer is arrested for a horrific murder. The police are convinced of his guilt until he reveals the shocking truth behind the event. More info at www.511films.co.uk
The Secret Adventures of the Projectionist (6 m.) From Germany. Dir. by Max Sacker First Prize-Fantasy. A cinema projectionist becomes entangled in a dangerous liaison with a silver screen femme fatale. More info at www.maxsacker.com
Friday August 29th at 7:00 pm
Ancestor Eyes (15 m.) Dir. by Kalani Queypo. Directorial Discovery Award.A young Native American woman returns home where she and her mother come to terms with the young woman’s illness, inspiring her mother’s gift for storytelling and paving a path of magical transformations.
Louisa May Alcott: The Woman behind Little Women (82 m.) Dir. by Nancy Porter Grand Prize-Providence Film Festival. Louisa Alcott’s life was no children’s book, but she became a wealthy celebrity and died with a shocking literary secret undiscovered for fifty years.
August 28th: Movies on the Block.Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! his week the film is Goldfinger.
August 21st: Movies on the Block.This week the film is Monty Python and the Holy Grail.
August 14th: Movies on the Block.This week the film is American Graffiti.
August 1-10th: Personal Journeys. Staff photographer, Paul Ruggeri will exhibit some of his unique and most personal work at this year's Festival. A gallery display will take place at the Columbus Theatre Arts Center in the Cinémathèque throughout the week of the Festival. Open to all festival attendees at the Columbus Theatre.
August 4-5th:ScriptBiz.08.Got a great idea for a movie script, but don’t know where to begin? Or have you finished that masterpiece, but no clue what to do next? The 12th Annual Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) proudly presents ScriptBiz.08, a two day workshop that covers the nuts and bolts of being a scriptwriter. The program is broken down into two parts: introductory and advanced. The RIIFF ScriptBiz Program is designed to guide writers not only through the creative process of writing, but ways to promote a screenplay to filmmakers through effective networking with tips on how to make a compelling pitch. This year’s annual ScriptBiz at the Renaissance Providence Hotel, 5 Avenue of the Arts., Providence, RI. Click here for more details.COMPLETED!
August 4-9th: The KidsEye™ International Film Festival. This year we expand our offerings over five mornings at a new location. Cutting edge films by and for kids compose this popular sidebar of RIIFF.Click here to see this year's programming and to order tickets...COMPLETED!
August 5-10th: 12th Annual Rhode Island International Film Festival promises to be an amazing event with new work, expanded networking opportunities for filmmakers and audiences, educational programs, an industry symposium, parties, awards, our Opening and Closing Galas, conversations with honorees, breakfast gatherings, a location tour, and a celebrity sighting here and there. This year we will be introducing several new sidebars, including the The Vortex Sci Fi & Fantasy Film Festival, which will include new cutting edge work in the Sci-Fi and Fantasy genres from independent filmmakers across the globe. (For more information, please click here...) We will also be introducing the Providence Underground Film Festival, with a mission to showcase new, experimental and genre bending work. (For more information, please click here...) See our Schedule and Order your Tickets here...
August 5th: 12th Annual RIIFF Opening Night Gala A brilliant and memorable selection of short films from around the world await audiences at the gala opening night of the 12th Annual Rhode Island International Film Festival. This year’s line up promises to engage while showcasing international film work. RIIFF’s Opening Night Program will honor the “Art of the Short Film,” a theme that has become a signature for the Festival. Some of the best short films from across the globe will be showcased between 7:00 and 9:00 p.m. on the grand 50-foot screen in PPAC. (See the list of flms here...) The films screened will represent an array of genres to salute RIIFF’s unique status: out of more than 7,000 film festivals world wide, RIIFF is one of only 61 qualifying Festivals with the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—the Oscars—the lone Festival in New England with that distinction. The hot ticket for the summer, tickets can be purchased at the door! COMPLETED!
August 7-8th:The Rhode Island Film Forum.
Dan Butler is our keynote speaker for this popular event and will appear on Thursday, August 7th.
Here’s your chance to become involved with Rhode Island’s “stars” of the film community. The two-day forum will bring together leaders of the film industry with the decision-making community leaders and historic, natural and commercial property managers of Rhode Island; plus look at what's new on the technical side of the business and how you fit in! Click here for more details and to book your reservations...COMPLETED!
August 7th: Movies on the Block. Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week join us for some of the best films from RIIFF's past.COMPLETED!
August 8th: KidsEye™ Red Carpet Premiere. Join us for the premiere work of the students from our annual KidsEye Summer Filmmaking Camp. Now in its 10th year, the camp teaches kids, 8-16, the fundamentals of filmmaking with visiting industry guest instructors. The premiere takes place at the Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street, Providence, RI at 7:00 p.m. Tickets available at the door.COMPLETED!
August 9th: Competing as an Actor in the Digital Age.Presented by actor/director, Carson Grant, www.carsongrant.com Time: 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. This workshop will help to organize your acting career to compete within this new media technology. Participants will begin to identify their skills and talents in order to establish an internet presence, explore how to compete for auditions with legit and commercial casting directors, and independently submit to casting in theater, film, webcasts, print and commercials. Participants are asked to bring their headshot, resumes, portfolios, and a one-minute monologue, (plus pen and notebook). Please sign up early since this 3 hour workshop is limited to 30 adults. Contact 401-861-4445. Cost: $30.Register here for this program...
August 9th: Avid Users Group Presentation and Reception. 5:00 PM - 7:00PM. Avid's Bob Russo. "Tools and techniques for the filmmaker". Brown Unversity, MacMillan Auditorium, 167 Thayer Street, Providence, RI, across the path from the Sciences Library. To register,click here...
August 9-10th: The New England Student Film Festival. Exciting, provocative and smart are words that best describe the work from students at our New England colleges and universities. This two-day sidebar will feature film work by tomorrow's leaders in the field. Click here to see this year's programming and to order tickets...
August 10th: RIIFF Official Awards Brunch.Our annual awards program takes place at 11:00 a.m. in the Garden Room of the Providence Biltmore Hotel. Order your ticket in advance, click here...
NEWS FROM THE RI HORROR FILM FESTIVAL
Monthly through September 2008: The Return of "You Be The Judge" Nights or the "Monster Review Series": Last year, over 400 films were submitted to the RI International Horror Film Festival (RIIFF). The reputation of our sidebar festival continues to grow as filmmakers and audiences from around the world spread the word. “You Be The Judge” is a unique opportunity for you to help us select the best films for screening at RIIHFF in October. Throughout the summer, we will be organizing special screenings and inviting you to be a festival judge for the night. Your comments will be recorded and used in helping us to determine which films make the cut. No experience necessary; just be prepared to watch an eclectic mix of shorts, documentaries, animations, local, and foreign films. The series will be launched at The Narragansett Theatre with screenings every Saturday night throughout July at 10:30 p.m.
June 29th: Best of Rhode Island Party. The Annual event sponsored by Rhode Island Monthly sees RIIFF nominated for a Best of Rhode Island Award in two categories: the Third Tuesday Best of Fest Series at the Courthouse Center for the Arts and the Movies on the Block summer series in Providence. Tonight will determine who wins. To learn more about the Best of Rhode Island Party, click here...
July 26th:RIIFF's Monster Review Series. It's "You be the Judge Night" meets the RI International Horror Film Festival. This summer we are partnering with the Narragansett Theatre, 3 Beach St., Narragansett, RI 02882, 401.783.1022 (adjacent to The Shorebreak). Preview and help select films for this year's RI Int'l Horror Film Festival. Yes, you will be scared... very scared. Open to the general public. For more information and directions, click here.
July 24th: Movies on the Block.Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week the film is The Birds.
July 20th:East Meets West: The Music of Ikuma Dan — A Musical celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Black Ships Festival, featuring the music of acclaimed Japanese composer, Ikuma Dan as performed by Music for a While: Eric R. Bronner, Julibeth Andrews, Kara Lund and Nancy Nicholson. A special 3-D slide presentation, which will provide a tour of modern Japan, has been created by Jim Barfoot of Providence. This multi-media program will precede the concert. Special viewing glasses will be provided to the audience. Location: Central Baptist Church, 99 Narragansett Avenue, Jamestown, R.I. Time: 7:00 p.m. Cost: $12; $10 for seniors/students and RIIFF members.Click here for more information.
July 18-20th: Annual Black Ships Japanese Film Festival.We are proud to be 50th Anniversary of the Sister City relationship between Newport and Shimoda, Japan. In 1983, the Flickers Arts Collaborative presented the Japanese Film Festival at the Stanford White Casino Theatre in Newport as part of the very first Black Ships Festival. 25 years later, this annual sidebar expands with programming in Newport, Jamestown and Narragansett. Along with a number of US Premieres, this mini-festival will feature award-winning shorts, cutting-edge anime, several feature-length films and a special multi-media presentation: East Meets West: The Music of Ikuma Dan (Sunday, July 20th) — a musical celebration of the 25th Anniversary under the Direction of Eric R. Bronner. The concert will feature pianist Nancy Nicholson, Julibeth Andrews and Kara Lund. The Japanese Film Festival is curated by James Hinsey. For more information,click here.
July 17th: Movies on the Block.Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week the film is Rocky.
July 12th:RIIFF's Monster Review Series. It's "You be the Judge Night" meets the RI International Horror Film Festival. This summer we are partnering with the Narragansett Theatre, 3 Beach St., Narragansett, RI 02882, 401.783.1022 (adjacent to The Shorebreak). Preview and help select films for this year's RI Int'l Horror Film Festival. Yes, you will be scared... very scared. Open to the general public. For more information and directions, click here.
July 7-11th:KidsEye Summer Filmmaking Camp. Celebrating it's 10th Anniversary. This is the original five-day filmmaking camp for ages 8-17 presented by the Academy Award qualifying, Rhode Island International Film Festival. Participants shoot several short films and a promotional trailer, attend workshops taught by certified educators and movie industry professionals, and learn about screenwriting, acting for camera, directing, makeup, camera, costuming and special effects. The Camp for this year is sold out. To learn about the camp, click here for more details.
July 10th: Movies on the Block.Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week the programming is geared for SoundSession 2008.
July 8th: RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m. Tonight: Planning Your 2008 RIIFF Experience. What are the hot films that will be screening at this year’s film Festival? Who are the filmmakers you must meet? What events demand your attendance? How can you attend the festival and not break the bank? Learn how to navigate the more than 250 films that will be screened at this year Festival from an insider’s point of view. Featuring some of this year’s accepted filmmakers and an advance peak at some of the centerpiece films that will be playing the Festival. Hosted by George T. Marshall, RIIFF's Executive Director and Adam Short, Producing Director. This is free to the general public. For directions to Borders, click here.
Week of July 7th: RIIFF 2008 Programming Schedule Released.
July 5th:RIIFF's Monster Review Series.It's "You be the Judge Night" meets the RI International Horror Film Festival. This summer we are partnering with the Narragansett Theatre, 3 Beach St., Narragansett, RI 02882, 401.783.1022 (adjacent to The Shorebreak). Preview and help select films for this year's RI Int'l Horror Film Festival. Yes, you will be scared... very scared. Open to the general public. For more information and directions, click here.
July 3rd : Movies on the Block.Don't forget the picnic blankets and snacks! Parking is available in the adjacent lot. Location: the Corner of Westminster and Union Streets, Providence. This event is free and open to the public! This week the film is Independence Day.
KIDSEYE™ 2008 Sold Out!
Celebrating it's 10th Anniversary!
The time just crept up on us and now we are celebrating year 10 of this popular summer program. What is KidsEye? It's a five-day summer camp held at the beautiful campus of the University or Rhode Island in Kingston, Rhode Island. KidsEye exposes young people to the basic elements of the filmmaking process, culminating in a premiere screening of their finished films. To learn more, click here. To download an application form,click here. The cost for this year's camp is $340.
The Disney Institute's Keys to Excellence
RIIFF was pleased to sponsor this exceptional training program that was hosted by the South Kingstown Chamber of Commerce. Our staff had a great opportunity to learn customer service, team building, leadership, loyalty and management techniques from the recognized industry leader. The event took place June 6th at the Sheraton Providence Airport Hotel in Warwick, RI. To see a video on the training program, click here.
For years, the Disney Institute has offered seminars to scores of business professionals who flock to Walt Disney World in order to learn the techniques and philosophies that allow The Walt Disney Company to achieve extraordinary success. The Institutes seminars are designed to share with other companies the insights of Disney's approach, so that those companies can increase productivity and eventually reap similar results. Companies that have participated in the seminars include American Express, Blockbuster Entertainment, Ben Jerrys Ice Cream, Eastman Kodak, Ernst Young, IBM, ATT, Mobil Oil, Nordstrom, Ritz-Carlton, Saks Fifth Avenue, SmithKline Beecham, Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, Target, United Parcel Service and many more.
June 26th: Movies on the Block.This week the film is Fletch.
Month of June: Rhode Island Pride. Events through the month, include the Providence Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Preview in which films made by, for and about the GLBT community take the spotlight through a partnership between the Rhode Island International Film Festival and RI Pride(this took place Friday, June 13th).
RI Pride is one of the most active and visible GLBT organizations in the New England region. With over 15,000 people participating in our events attendance for the PrideFest and New England’s only Night-time Pride Parade, GLBT individuals in RI, southern Massachusetts, and eastern Connecticut are able to come together to celebrate their personhood and their culture. The PrideFest also includes an education and interactive recreational area called the Kid’s Pride Zone to provide GLBT parents a place to engage in family oriented activities with their children at the the festival. Recently, individuals as far away as Canada, New York and Washington D.C. have come to RI to participate in these programs and events. RI Pride is proud to have an event or function every month throughout the year. These programs and projects help GLBT individuals develop self pride and self-esteem.
SATURDAY, JUNE 21 - 2008 RI PrideFest & 32nd Anniversary Celebration 12:00-8:30 Bank of America City Center and Burnside Park (Across from the Biltmore Hotel) – New England’s second largest pride celebration features the largest GLBT Marketplace and Business Exposition in the region with a mix of national and local entertainment. The RI PrideFest also features the Kidz Pride Zone, an area specifically created for children, kids and families. The diverse offerings at the PrideFest draw a mix of individuals and families of all ages.
RI PrideFest’s Main-stage Line-up of Entertainment - June 21 – 12:00 - 8:30 pm. RI Pride is please to announce headlining this year’s PrideFest: TIFFANY! Joining her on the stage is one of the most impressive line-ups in RI Pride’s history featuring talents both national and local. Performers include: former Motown recording artist Danielle Andrews, crowd favorites Sister Funk, BellaMinx Burly-Q, and Heather Rose and the Drama. Also sharing their talents will be: Aden Mott, Rolla, Chelsy Lau Band, The Candace Brooks Band, Imperial Court of Rhode Island, Greg Bonin, Sabrina Blaze, Jackie Collins. Talents from as far away as New York City and Washington, DC include Ariel Aparicio & The Hired Guns, Jason Walker, and Tom Goss plus many more surprises. Special performances by Miss Gay RI 2008 Jaqueline DiMera, Ms. Lesbian RI 2008 Lara Sebastian and Mr. Gay RI 2008 Sean Powell are planned for the fest. Miss Kitty Litter, Haley Star will round out the line-up as emcees for the day.
June 17th: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2007 RIIFF, Showtime at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.This is the final presentation of the season.
June 16th: Last day to officially submit film work to the 2008 Rhode Island International Film Festival. This is the postmark date. Please contact us if you are having problems/issues or have questions about late submissions.
Briefly:
• Listen to interviews with RIIFF filmmakers along with Filmmaking Magic in Rhode Island that was held in 2007 at Borders in Cranston, RI. Speakers were filmmaker Jon Rabin; Steven Feinberg, Director of the RI Film & TV Office; filmmaker Michael Corrente; and, RIIFF's Executive Director, George Marshall. Click here
(Special Thanks to Toni Marie Pennacchia of MergingArts Productions, Spoiler Alert Radio)
• KidsEye™ Announces partnership with Hasbro. Read the details here..
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ARTS AROUND RHODE ISLAND
NOW AT TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY:
"Paris by Night "
posted April 30, 2008
Provocative, evocative, heartfelt, thought--provoking, emotional and powerful are a few of the descriptions for this striking new musical having its World Premiere at Providence's acclaimed Trinity Repertory Company. At once a love story and social commentary, the play touches the heart and speaks of the ineffable nature of romance.
"Paris by Night" features memorable book & lyrics by Curt Columbus, Trinity's Artistic Director, with a compelling musical score by Andre Pluess & Amy Warren. The play is directed with by Birgitta Victorson. The set by Eugene Lee is in a word: brilliant. (As is the entire production!)
THE STORY:
In the City of Light and Love in 1960, anything seems possible. An unconventional love story is at the heart of this jazzy new love story. Sam is a brokenhearted expatriate certain that he’s left romance behind... until he meets a young soldier, fresh-faced and full of optimism. Meanwhile, the beautiful chanteuse Marie doesn’t see that she’s mixed up with the wrong guy, while true love is right under her nose. What is this magic that lets them follow their hearts? It’s Paris by Night.
We strongly recommend that you go and see this powerful and thought-provoking new production.
________________________________
For more information or to order tickets, click here.
June 13th:Providence Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Preview. Films made by, for and about the GLBT community take the spotlight in a special celebration preview through a partnership between the Rhode Island International Film Festival and RI Pride. The preview will feature cutting edge shorts and a sneak peak of a major new feature film. This year the GLBT festival during RIIFF in August is screening over 40 films from across the globe on an array of topics that touch everything from relationships, gay marriage to military policy. Contact 401-861-4445 for more information.
Programming in June:
• Friday, June 13th; Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street, Providence; 8:00 p.m. $10 admission
We will be presenting a "Secret Cinema" screening of a major new GLBT film that has been scheduled for this August's RIIFF. While we cannot disclose the name, we can tell you that it was recently the Opening Night film at a major GLBT Festival and is directed by a filmmaker whose work has played RIIFF in the past. If you need any more hints, there is a Star Trek connection...
June 10th: RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m. Tonight: Breaking in to the National Market: Tales from the Darkside. You’ve spent years working on your dream film project. You’ve taken your original idea, gotten the funding, hired the cast and crew, shot the film and spent months in post production. You’ve fine-tuned and honed your film thanks to feedback from private screenings, focus groups and the film festival circuit. Now where do you take it? How does it reach wide distribution? Learn first hand from award-winning filmmaker, Erik Latek whose acclaimed film “Sweet Dreams” has made this journey. This promises to be a lively and entertaining evening. Hosted by George T. Marshall, RIIFF's Executive Director and Adam Short, Producing Director. This is free to the general public. For directions to Borders, click here.
June 3rd:"You Be The Judge" Night."Cranston Senior Center , 1070 Cranston St., Cranston, RI, 401-780-6000. Time: 6:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Note: the screening will be held in the dining room, 1st floor, to the left as you enter the lobby area. Free and open to the general public.
May 30th: Sentimental Journey: Great American Songbook hits from the World War era come to life in a stirring multimedia concert. This moving celebration showcases popular and contemporary music of the period. The program will be performed by “Music for a While” in a special reunion concert. Featuring Julibeth Andrews, soprano; Eric Bronner, tenor; Vaughn Bryner, baritone; and Nancy Nicholson, piano. This nostalgic concert benefits the Joseph and Viola Marshall Scholarship Fund for high school and college students in the study of the film and media arts. The program is under the musical direction of Eric R. Bronner. Concert at 7:30 p.m. Columbus Theatre Arts Center, Cinemathéque, 270 Broadway, Providence, RI. Recommended donation: $15, $10 for seniors and students. For more information,click here.
May 20th: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2007 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
May 16th: Heather Henson presents "Handmade Puppet Dreams." This amazing event that premiered with RIIFF in 2006 for our 10th Anniversary, returns to Providence as part of the programming of FirstWorks with all new work. What is it? Shorts films by puppet artists. "Handmade Puppet Dreams" is a touring festival of independent artists films exploring their handmade craft specifically for the camera. These films have allowed artists to build their vision, then breathe life into their dreams. To learn more about Heather Henson's work, click here.
Here's the programming schedule:
• Handmade Puppet Dreams for Kids
Friday, May 16 at 6 p.m.
Providence Children’s Museum, 100 South Street, Providence
Admission to the museum is free from 5-8 p.m.
May 13th:RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m.Tonight: Making it in Rhode Island: The Impact of Film Tax Credits. They began as a simple idea to spur more film business in the Ocean State. And they quickly achieved their goal. Now they are a source of controversy and may soon be repealed or capped. What is the lure of these credits? What is happening in neighboring states? How does Rhode Island stay competitive and build a filmmaking infrastructure? Learn first hand just what the tax credits mean for Rhode Island, who is impacted and why you should care. FeaturingGary Glassman of Providence Pictures (Since 1997, from his downcity office in the Old Providence Journal Building, Gary Glassman and his team at Providence Pictures have made over 30 films for NOVA/PBS, Discovery and History Channels. Check out their work at www.providencepictures.com); Ellen Becker Gray, a full-time SAG actress; and representatives from the animtion house, Story Hat Productions. Hosted by Adam Short, RIIFF’s Producing Director. To learn more,click here.
The Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival Preview Screenings. The Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival (GJCFF) is a new initiative aimed at introducing authentic Chinese culture to American audiences. It is a collaboration between the US-China Institute and Confucius Institute at Bryant University, the Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) and the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities. Up next: A monthly Chinese film screening will be open to the general public. Audiences will have the chance to preview and judge the latest Chinese films submitted to the RIIFF. Your scores will help us determine which films to include in this year’s Festival. To download the flyer,click here. To learn more, click here.
RIIFF RECEIVES A NEW ENGLAND EMMY NOMINATION FOR ITS 2007 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS / FESTIVAL PROMOTIONS
The campaign featured two spots. Entitled "No Excuses," it was created by William Smyth, Director; Miraj Berry, Writer/Composer; and George T. Marshall, Producer. The spots featured the talents of Richard Donnelly and Phyllis Kay of Trinity Repertory Company. They aired in July and August 2007 on WJAR TV.
This marks the third time PSA's produced by RIIFF have gone on to be nominated for Emmy Awards. There has been one win. All spots were directed by William Smyth.
The 31st Boston / New England Emmy Awards will take place on Saturday, May 10th, 2008 at the Boston Marriott Hotel, Copley Place, Grand Ballroom, 110 Huntington Avenue, Boston.
To see a complete list of this year's nominees, please click here.
May 8th: "You Be The Judge" Night." Held on the second Thursday of the month. Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence, RI, 401-575-2284. Time: 7:30 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public.
May 1st: "You Be The Judge" Night."Rochambeau Branch Library, 708 Hope Street, Providence, RI., 401-455-8110. Time: 7:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public. For more information and directions, click here.
RIIFF DOCUMENTARY FILM "FROM THE 50 YARD LINE" PLAYS IN CHINA THANKS TO FESTIVAL PARTNERSHIP
The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF)– New England’s largest film festival and its only Academy Award qualifying event – is pleased to announce the screening of “From The 50 Yard Line” at the prestigious Sun Yat-sen University in Guangzhou, China thanks to a special partnership between the RIIFF and Guangzhou Documentary Film Festival (GZDOC).
“The Rhode Island International Film Festival takes great pride in helping filmmakers who play the Festival achieve success,” said George T. Marshall, RIIFF’s Executive Director.
“From The 50 Yard Line” won the Audience Choice Award at the 2007 RIIFF. The film documents the emotional story of two high school marching bands: one an Ohio championship winner, the other a newly reborn city band from Los Angeles.
Through RIIFF’s partnership with the Guangzhou Documentary Film Festival (GZDOC) – China’s largest documentary festival – top RIIFF documentaries have an opportunity to screen at the Chinese film festival. Additionally, RIIFF docs have been chosen by GZDOC to participate in the Sapphire Moving Image Salon traveling film series and special events for trade, cultural, and educational organizations.
Month of April 2008: The Third Annual Roving Eye Documentary Film Festival.This month-long celebration of international documentaries will screen at locations across the state, including: Westerly, Richmond, Providence, Warwick, Bristol, and Smithfield. A selection of short and feature documentaries will be shown and all screenings, unless otherwise noted, will be free of charge and open to the public. The diverse lineup of films will feature two documentaries by Oscarnominated filmmakers Adrian and Roco Belic: “Beyond the Call” and “Genghis Blues”. In collaboration with the Guangzhou Documentary Film Festival and the US-China Institute, Bryant University will host a series of Chinese documentaries covering the topics about the environment, the Olympics, and Confucius’ legacy.To learn more about the Roving Eye Documentary Film Festival, click here; to see the schedule of films, click here.
RIIFF08 Sneak Peek: ESCAPE FROM LUANDA Directed by Phil Grabsky; UK/Africa (72 mins)
In the first and only school of its kind, within one of the world’s poorest and most dangerous places, three music students practice for a year-end concert. The Music School in Angola is home to some eighty students, most of whom are desperately poor. Many face disapproval and outright rejection from families who do not understand. A future in music seems impossible within a country ravaged by twenty-seven years of civil war.
But Joanna believes that “art is life!” She and the other students know this only too well. Music seems to be the only reason to move forward from heartbreaking memories and emotional trauma. To each of the students, music seems to offer a new life, a hope for the future, and a reason to dream.
This program is free to the general public. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Ghuangzhou Documentary Film Festival presents: LADY CONFUCIUS Directed by Zhao Liang; China (45 mins)
The family tomb of Confucius is one of the oldest in the China. Nestled in tranquil surroundings lie the bodies of the man regarded by the Chinese as the "Greatest Sage" and his male descendants. But, the peace of this sacred resting place is about to be broken by Confucius’ 76th generation daughter, Kong Linghe, fighting for her place in a cemetery that only accepts the male descendants of Confucius and their wives. Her quest has set an 84-year-old woman against the centuries-old traditions of China’s most important family.
This program is free to the general public. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis.
SATURDAY, APRIL 26TH, 2008
7:00 pm – Warwick Art Museum 3259 Post Road Apponaug Village, Warwick; (401) 737-0010
Preview screening and discussion: OLD HOUSE SOUL Directed by Don Manley and Michel Schtakleff, USA (7 mins)
Don Manley and Michel Schtakleff will present a seven minute video clip of their documentary entitled “Old House Soul”. They are researching the local history of architectural preservation with a focus on preservation architect Steve Tyson. Tyson and his firm, Architectural Preservation Group, have been fixtures of the Apponaug community for decades. Steve’s work in Apponaug includes the Harrison house on Post Road south, the Caleb Gorton House on Greenwich Avenue, his shop on Meadow Street, and the Arnold house previously located near the Four Corners, which he saved from demolition by moving it to Buttonwoods. He was also involved in the formation of the Apponaug Historic District and on Warwick’s Historic District Commission. After screening the trailer, Don and Michel, will welcome the audience’s input related to historic architectural preservation. Audience commentary may be included in the final version of the film.
Additionally Don will speak of his experience moving an 1840s house from Scituate
to its current location in Foster. He also relocated the 19th century Bennett barn
to the same property. The presentation is accompanied by a slide and video show.
$5 Suggested Admission (additional donations accepted). All proceeds to benefit the Old House Soul Film Project.
Seating limited & reservations required: Call George Shuster or Stephanie Van Patten to reserve your place, 737-1278.
April 22-26th: Our new partner (to see a list of Festival partners, click here), the Rincón International Film Festival takes flight for its inaugural year. The Mission of the Festival is to support and promote culture and the arts in Puerto Rico through the medium of film. The festival seeks to inspire student, future and current filmmakers in the art of filmmaking, and to enhance the movie viewing experience in Puerto Rico through creative, unique and entertaining events. With special award categories for Puerto Rican filmmakers and Spanish Language films as well as International and American Films. The Festival is under the guidance of our friends, David Johnson & Steve Lantz , the Festival Directors. To learn more about the Festival, click here; and see a schedule of this year's programming,click here.
April 23-24th:URI's Visualizations Film Festival.This wonderful festival that was created through funding by URI alum, Fred Joyal, is now in its 10th year and supports and encourages student filmmaking at the University of Rhode Island. We are pleased that RIIFF is a major sponsor of this event and encourage the general public to participate and attend the screenings. Held 7:00 p.m. in Chafee 277 at the Kingston Campus. Admission is free. For a link to the 2008 Festival, please click here...
April 14-20th: RIIFF is pleased to support and promote The Seventh Annual Ivy Film Festivaltakes place at Brown University. This well reputed and exciting student run festival encourages the creative efforts of undergraduate and graduate student filmmakers by acting as a quality venue for their work and by creating opportunities to learn from one another and talented professionals. The festival strives to garner recognition for student filmmakers by means of a panel of celebrity judges including: directors, producers, writers, and agents who will view the top films from the festival. This year's keynote speaker wil be director, Martin Scorsese who will be giving the Festival Spotlight Address in Salomon 101, Saturday, April 19th at 3:00 p.m. on the Brown University campus. This event will be open to public. To learn more, click here...
April 15th: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2007 RIIFF, Showtime at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
and also that same evening...
"You Be The Judge" Night."Clark Memorial Library , 7 Pinehurst Drive, Carolina, RI,(401) 364-6100. Time: 7:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public. For more information and directions, click here.
"You Be The Judge" Night."193 Degree Coffee House, Memorial Union, University of Rhode Island, Kingston, RI,(401) 861-4445. Time: 7:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public. For more information and directions, click here.
April 10th: "You Be The Judge" Night." Held on the second Thursday of the month. Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence, RI, 401-575-2284. Time: 7:30 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public.
April 11th: First Look Screening of "Beyond the Call."Ed Artis, James Laws and Walt Ratterman are three middle-aged men whose idea of adventure is taking desperately needed food and medicine to communities devastated by natural disasters and plagued by war. In 1995, they formed Knightsbridge International, a unique humanitarian aid organization, whose motto is 'High Adventure and Service to Humanity.' Artis explains: 'We're not there to change anybody's politics, we're not in the God business, and we pay our own way.' As Laws tells it simply, “We do what we can, when we can, because we can.”
These former soldiers and modern day knights travel the world delivering life saving humanitarian aid directly into the hands of civilians in some of the most dangerous yet beautiful places on Earth. Winner of thirty awards, this “Mother Teresa meets Indiana Jones” adventure has screened at over eighty film festivals on five continents. Now it comes to Rhode Island. Time: 8:00 pm, Columbus Theater Arts Center Cinematheque, 270 Broadway, Providence; Call (401) 621-9660 or the RIIFF office at (401) 861-4445. Tickets: $10 admission; $8 for members and seniors. For more information and to order tickets, click here. Read the news release, click here...
April 8th: RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m.
Tonight:From Fiction to Film: Journeys in Imagined Lands. What are the sparks that ignite the flames of imagine? How does one adapt an internal dialogue to the broader realm of the stage and cinema? Learn firsthand from author Scott Heim, who won fellowships to the London Arts Board as their International Writer-in-Residence, and to the Sundance Screenwriters Lab. His acclaimed first novel "Mysterious Skin" was adapted for the stage, premiering in San Francisco; and was subsequently adapted to film by director Gregg Araki and Antidote Films. Tonight, Scott will introduce and read from his new novel "We Disappear;" a fascinating psychological thriller that tackles questions of identity, illness and trauma. Scott will also answer questions about seeing his work made into a feature film and the journey that entailed. Featuring author/filmmaker, Edward Delaney and hosted by Adam Short, RIIFF's Producing Director. Click for more details... Read the news release, click here...
•To see Paul Ruggeri's photos of this event, click here
Chase Huneke, our intern from Brown University at the RIIFF booth, Newport County (RI)
Business Expo, March 18, 2008.
ARTS AROUND RHODE ISLAND
NOW AT TRINITY REPERTORY COMPANY:
"Some Things Are Private"
posted March 2008
We strongly recommend that you go and see this powerful and thought-provoking new production. GIven its message, it could not be more timely.
The question of determining what constitutes "art," the nature of censorship, and the very notion of "freedom" are at the heart of "Some Things Are Private," the new play at Trinity Repertory Company created by Deborah Salem Smith and Laura Kepley, who developed Trinity's acclaimed 2006 theatrical war docudrama, "Boots on the Ground."
Real-life photographer, Sally Mann faced outrage head on when her book "Immediate Family" was published. The book features photographs - some spontaneous and some staged, some disturbing and all haunting - of her children. They grew up in the secluded patch of Virginia forest and farmland where Mann herself had come of age. Just as their mother had skinny-dipped when she was a kid, Emmett, Jessie, and Virginia Mann hung out, quite comfortably, in the nude. In the Mann household, taking pictures was a family activity; the kids often collaborated with their mom to devise beautiful or interesting photographs.
In "Some Things Are Private," playwright Smith and director Kepley explore how Mann's photos continue to unsettle viewers, and how when viewers are uncomfortable, they may search for answers from the artist.
Featuring an amazing ensemble cast: Janice Duclos, Stephen Thorne, Anne Scurria, Rachael Warren and Richard Donnelly, this is a production not to be missed!
For more information or to order tickets, click here.
April 6th:"You Be The Judge" in the Afternoon." Held at "Bagelz" The Bagel Bakery, Bagelz of Wakefield, 90 Pershing Avenue Wakefield, RI 02879 401-783-9700. Time: 2:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public.
March 26th: RIIFF is proud to announce that Robert Rose's latest production "The Greatest Salesman in Rhode Island," airs on Rhode Island Public Broadcasting (WSBE TV) tonight at 8:00 p.m. Director Rose received a grant from the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities (RICH) which RIIFF administered. The $2,000 grant supported the production and video taping of the play for television broadcast. Rich in historical and cultural content from the Red Scare era, "The Greatest Salesman in Rhode Island" is a one act play based on an unpublished short story by Rhode Island native and Pulitzer Prize winning author Edwin O’Connor. The story was discovered by project director Robert Rose while researching a biography of O’Connor. Please be sure to watch this wonderful presentation that features the amazing Bob Colonna and Stephen Thorne from Trinity Repertory Company. To learn more about Robert Rose, click here...
March 20th: Annual "FIRST LOOK" Night & Birthday Celebration: Saluting Elaine Lorillard, Founder of the Newport Jazz Festival. What better way to welcome the first day of Spring than with the presentation of the acclaimed new film, "Anita O'Day: The Life of a Jazz Singer" which crowns a fun evening event.
For the fourth year, our popular reception/party and premiere film screening returns as we celebrate friends and family of the Festival. This year, we will salute one of our original Board members, Elaine Lorillard (1914-2007), the visionary founder of the Newport Jazz Festival. Part of the evening includes a rarely seen interview with Elaine. Join us as we toast her memory and salute her contributions to the arts; not only in Rhode Island, but throughout the world. Local musicians will provide entertainment before the film. Tickets are on sale now and we expect them to sell fast to this popular event. Call us at 401.861.4445 for more details. To learn more about this year's program and to buy your tickets,click here.
March 18th: Newport County Chamber of Commerce Business Expo. Join us at the Hyatt Regency on Goat Island, Newport for our RIIFF Video Lounge which will celebrate the world of independent film. Over 3000 attendees and 120+ Exhibitors--one being RIIFF as Flickers continues to celebrate its 25th Anniversary! Time: Exhibitor networking hour from 3 - 4 p.m., general public from 4 - 7 p.m.
and also that same evening...
Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2007 RIIFF, Showtime at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
March 13th: "You Be The Judge" Night." Held on the second Thursday of the month. Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence, RI, 401-575-2284. Time: 7:30 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public.
March 11th:RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m.
Tonight:The ins and outs of the niche film festival circuit. The question addressed and answered: Now that you’ve made your film, you need to ask yourself, “How do I get it out there for people to see?” The festival circuit is one of the most popular and useful tools for connecting your film to an audience. But few filmmakers understand the steps involved in getting their film ready for submission. With the explosion of regional festivals, it is important to strategize how and where your film will be exhibited. At this Forum, filmmakers can learn firsthand from the directors of Brown University’s Ivy Film Festival, the largest student run film festival in the country. Featuring Megan Boudreau, Executive Director; Elizabeth Backup, Associate Director; Eric Dahlbom, Programming Director, Chase Huneke, Senior Programmer and with host Adam Short, RIIFF's Producing Director. Click for more details...
and also that same evening...
The inaugural End of Winter Animation Film Festival kicks off tonight with presentations of new, cutting edge work that have been submitted to RIIFF. Screenings to be held at the Barrington Public Library, Barrington, RI. Curated by Michael Viera, our intern from the Met School in Providence, this program presents a unique perspective on the range and styles of animated films being created today. The program begins at 7:00 p.m. and is free to the general public. For more information and a list of the films being screened,click here...
March 2nd: Special Roving Eye Documentary Film Festival Advance Screening. As part of its Third Annual Roving Eye Documentary Film Series, which kicks off in April, the Rhode Island International Film Festival will present a special screening of the Academy Award nominated GENGHIS BLUES, the story of a blind blues musician's triumphant journey to the lost land of Tuva. The Story: Originally from Hyannis, MA, musician Paul Pena played in the Newport Folk Festival in 1969 in the Contemporary Composer's Workshop with such people as James Taylor, Joni Mitchell and Kris Kristofferson. In 1971, he moved to San Francisco and recorded his first marketed record for Capital Records. He has played with blues greats T-Bone Walker, B.B. King, and Bonnie Raitt. In 1995, the blind bluesman became the first American ever to compete in an unusual contest of multi-harmonic "throatsinging." Created by filmmakers Adrian and Roko Belic, this unforgettable documentary will fascinate and delight anyone with a love for music. Sunday, March 2, 2008, 2:00 - 4:00 p.m. Providence Public Library, Central Auditorium, 150 Empire Street, Providence, RI 02903. Free to the general public. For more information, click here.
February 24th: Academy Award Night Friends and Family Preview Party! Join the Rhode Island International Film Festival for our first ever "Friends and Family" preview party. Held prior to this year's Academy Awards, we'll be screening the nominated films that have hailed from RIIFF along with some new arrivals that could be next year's nominees. Food, film and refreshments are included in the recommended donation of $10. Click here for details and to order your ticket.• Click here to learn more about the Academy Awards.
February 19th: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2007 RIIFF, Showtime at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $5; CCA & RIIFF members $4. For more information,click here.
February 16th: CineOLE! ¡Hola Barcelona! ¡Hola Madrid! ¡Hola Sevilla! ¡Hola cine de España! Cine ¡OLÉ! is your passport to contemporary, independent Spanish film. The Rhode Island International Film Festival is pleased to present a series of special screenings that explore the cinema of one of the world’s great filmmaking countries. Think Pedro Almodóvar, Carlos Saura, or Luis Buñuel - Spanish filmmakers are highly regarded and in demand, helming film projects across Europe, the United States, and Latin America. Join us as we tour the cinematic landscape of Spain through a selection of short films by up-and-coming directors. Location: The Providence Public Library, Empire Street Theater, 150 Empire St, Providence, (401) 455-8000. The program kicks off at 3:00 p.m.Click here for details...
February 14th: "You Be The Judge" Night "Valentine's Edition. Held held at the Barrington Public Library, Barrington, RI Time: 7:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public.
and also at the same time in the City of Providence:
"You Be The Judge" Night "Valentine's Edition 2.0 Held on the second Thursday of the month. Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence, RI, 401-575-2284. Time: 7:00 p.m. Preview and help select films for this year's RIIFF. Free and open to the general public.
February 12th:RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m.
Tonight: Documentary Film Creation with a Rhode Island Twist. Dave Bettencourt, director of “You Must Be This Tall” (now available on DVD and winner of the 2007 best documentary feature at the Northampton Independent Film Festival) and Jon Rabin, director of “Italian Americans and Federal Hill” (2006 RIIFF documentary award winner and available on DVD) speak to their RI Historical documentary projects, the local and global impact of their work and the process of filming in RI. There will be a Q and A session. Hosted by Toni Pennacchia of spoileralertradio.com and Adam Short, RIIFF’s Producing Director.
January 8th:RIIFF FilmMaking Forums at Borders Bookstore. Join us at Borders Bookstore in Providence Place Mall for timely discussions about the filmmaking industry and you. Programming will take place at 7:00 p.m.
Tonight:Lights, Action…Patience: Breaking into the Indie Film Scene as an Actor & Working with Indie Filmmakers.Thanks to the plethora of film productions taking place throughout New England, you've landed a job as an extra in a number of films, or you've been inspired to direct your first independent film. So what's the next step? Actors Mick Hoegen and Fran Richmond are co-chairs of the Boston AFTRA/SAG Independent Film Committee, a sub-committee of the Boston AFTRA/SAG Organizing Committee. The Independent Film Committee is a grassroots effort to work with all elements of the filmmaking process to support the continuing growth of New England as a significant filmmaking region.Working primarily with low budget filmmakers, including students, Mick and Fran strive to encourage independent New England filmmakers to work with union acting talent toward the common goal of creating quality films that are representative of what can be accomplished here in the New England region.The discussion will be followed by a Q&A session. Hosted by Toni Pennacchia of spoileralertradio.com and Adam Short, RIIFF's Producing Director.
• Congratulations to filmmaker, Robert Rose who recently received a grant from the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities which RIIFF will be administering. The grant of $2,000 is for "The Greatest Salesman in Rhode Island." Funds support the production and video tape of the play for broadcast on local television. Rich in historical and cultural content from the Red Scare era, "The Greatest Salesman in Rhode Island" is a one act play based on an unpublished short story by Rhode Island native and Pulitzer Prize winning author Edwin O’Connor. The story was discovered by project director Robert Rose while researching a biography of O’Connor.
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Jeffrey Roth Comes to Rhode Island...
RIIFF Board member, Professor John Leo of the Film Media Program at the University of Rhode Island welcomes filmmaker Jeffrey Roth (center) to the Kingston, RI campus. Joining them is Mary Healey-Jamiel, filmmaker, frequent RIIFF contributor and URI faculty member. Jeff is the director of the acclaimed documentary, "The Wonder of It All" and was in Rhode Island for a holiday screening of his work and to meet with RI film students.
Our Sincere Condolences...
In Memoriam: Joseph Marshall
A founding member of the Flickers Arts Collaborative and distinguished retired military officer, died on Wednesday, February 21st at age 90. A special scholarship program is planned in his memory.
Retired Lieutenant Commander Joseph Marshall, 90, of Newport, Rhode Island, died peacefully surrounded by his family and loved ones, Wednesday, February 21, 2007, at Heatherwood Nursing and Rehab Center in Newport, Rhode Island. He was the husband of the late Viola Mildred Beck Marshall with whom he shared his life for 57 years ... read more
Read the 2005 Festival Dedication to Joseph Marshallhere
Elaine Lorillard, founder of the Newport Jazz Festival dies at 93
A long-term Board member of the Flickers Arts Collaborative, producers of the annual Rhode Island International Film Festival, Mrs. Lorillard was the recipient of the organization's highest honor: The Creative Vision Award for Artistic Excellence in 2001. In 1997, she was honored at the Flicker's produced, Jubilé Franco Américain in Woonsocket, RI for her role in promoting the importance of jazz as an art form. She also appeared on our fine arts television series, "Between Takes," which sparked the attention of Japanese author, Machie Sakai, leading to her biography on Elaine's work "Newport Jazz Festival, 1953-1960." Elaine Lorillard was a visionary and a true American original. Our deepest condolences to her family, loved ones and friends. She will be missed!
...to the family
and friends of Agavne (Norigian) Berberian. Born in Palou-Nerkhi, Armenia, she was the daughter of the late Khachadoor and Shooshan (Aramian) Norigian. Mrs. Berberian was a survivor of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. She was the devoted mother of Sarkis 'Jon' Berberian and his wife Elizabeth of Providence, (owners of the Columbus Theatre Arts Center), Hapet A. Berberian and his wife Stephanie of Wellesley, MA, and Lillian Klanian and her husband Peter of East Greenwich; loving grandmother of eleven; loving great-grandmother of six; dear sister of Michael Norigian of Cranston and the late Robert Norigian; and loving aunt of many nieces and nephews. She was 97 and will be greatly missed!
~ From your friends at Flickers and the Rhode Island
International Film Festival!
...to the family
and friends of Ruth K. Myers, the much-beloved
founder of Christmas-in-Newport in 1971. Her goal was to glorify the season in non-commercial
and charitable ways into a month long celebration. What
she created was a city-wide celebration fostering the
historic traditions of the holiday season. This she
achieved and her dream continues today in its 36th year.
A true visionary, Ruth had an impact that has touched
so many. She will be greatly missed. (Read
More about Ruth here…)
“Tanghi Argentini” (Premium Films)
The Master of Ceremonies for the evening is actor John Ratzenberger who is most remembered as Cliff Clavin from “Cheers!” As the legendary trademark voice for Disney/ Pixar Studios, John has been heard in “Toy Story, “A Bug’s Life,” “Cars,” “Toy Story 2,” “Monsters, Inc.,” “The Incredibles,” “Finding Nemo,” “Ratatouille,” “WALL-E,” and the upcoming “Toy Story 3.” His latest feature film, “The Village Barbershop,” will have its world premiere with the Rhode Island International Film Festival at the Columbus Theatre Arts Center on Wednesday night, August 6th at 7:00 p.m.
Hakim (15 m.) From Germany Dir. by Ismail Sahin International Humanitarian Award. A heartwarming story of spirited young boy in Africa who loses his mother to aids and finds his home in an orphan village.
Romans 12:20 (26 m.) From the U.K. Dir. by The Shammasian Brothers. Grand Prize-International Discovery Award. A notorious bouncer is arrested for a horrific murder. The police are convinced of his guilt until he reveals the shocking truth behind the event. More info at 
July 20th: East Meets West: The Music of Ikuma Dan — A Musical celebration of the 25th Anniversary of the Black Ships Festival, featuring the music of acclaimed Japanese composer, Ikuma Dan as performed by Music for a While: Eric R. Bronner, Julibeth Andrews, Kara Lund and Nancy Nicholson. A special 3-D slide presentation, which will provide a tour of modern Japan, has been created by Jim Barfoot of Providence. This multi-media program will precede the concert. Special viewing glasses will be provided to the audience. Location: Central Baptist Church, 99 Narragansett Avenue, Jamestown, R.I. Time: 7:00 p.m. Cost: $12; $10 for seniors/students and RIIFF members. 
RIIFF DOCUMENTARY FILM "FROM THE 50 YARD LINE" PLAYS IN CHINA THANKS TO FESTIVAL PARTNERSHIP 
LADY CONFUCIUS
Preview screening and discussion:
March 2nd: 
February 16th: 
Tonight: Lights, Action…Patience: Breaking into the Indie Film Scene as an Actor & Working with Indie Filmmakers.Thanks to the plethora of film productions taking place throughout New England, you've landed a job as an extra in a number of films, or you've been inspired to direct your first independent film. So what's the next step? Actors Mick Hoegen and Fran Richmond are co-chairs of the Boston AFTRA/SAG Independent Film Committee, a sub-committee of the Boston AFTRA/SAG Organizing Committee. The Independent Film Committee is a grassroots effort to work with all elements of the filmmaking process to support the continuing growth of New England as a significant filmmaking region.Working primarily with low budget filmmakers, including students, Mick and Fran strive to encourage independent New England filmmakers to work with union acting talent toward the common goal of creating quality films that are representative of what can be accomplished here in the New England region.The discussion will be followed by a Q&A session. Hosted by Toni Pennacchia of spoileralertradio.com and Adam Short, RIIFF's Producing Director.
In Memoriam: Joseph Marshall 
