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Office:

THE VETS

83 Park Street, Suite 5

Providence, RI 02903 USA
tel: 401/861-4445
401/490-6735 (f)
info@film-festival.org

 

Mailing Address:

PO Box 162

Newport, RI 02840 USA

Street Address:

36 Rhode Island Avenue,

Newport, RI 02840 USA


 

 

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Archived 2009 RIIFF News

 

EmmyRIIFF WINS A NEW ENGLAND EMMY AWARD FOR ITS 2008 PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS / FESTIVAL PROMOTIONAL CAMPAIGN

 

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) – is very proud to report that it has once again won a New England Emmy Award. RIIFF was presented the award by The Board of Governors of the Boston/New England Chapter of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences at their annual Awards Gala on Saturday, May 30th. The location for the Awards program was the Boston Marriott Hotel, Copley Place, Grand Ballroom, 110 Huntington Avenue, Boston. RIIFF won the award for Best Community/Public Service (PSA) Campaign.

 

The campaign featured two spots. Entitled "Canisters," the PSAs were written by Duncan Putney; produced by Demetria Carr; directed by William Smyth; and featured original music composition by Miraj Berry. The Executive Producer for the campaign was George T. Marshall, who along with Mr. Putney, accepted the award.

 

The spots featured the talents of Richard Donnelly and Phyllis Kay of Trinity Repertory Company and cameos by Peter Manfredo, Jr., Michael Corrente, Monique Barker, Simon Liu, Francesca Simone, Mayor David Cicilline, Dr. Stephen Carr, Ellen Tedeschi-Moran, and Olivia Carr. They aired in July and August 2008 on WJAR TV, an NBC affiliate.

 

This marks the fourth time PSAs produced by RIIFF have gone on to be nominated for Emmy Awards and the third win. All promotional spots were directed by William Smyth

 

To see a complete list of this year's nominees and winners, please click here..

 


Richard Corso, RIIFF Hospitality Manager, wins Rose Award for Volunteerism

Richard

Photo by Paul Ruggeri

(PROVIDENCE, RI) • Richard Corso (front row center), RIIFF's Hospitality Manager, holds the plaque and citations from Rhode Island Governor Donald Carcieri and Providence Mayor David Cicilline. Richard was a winner of the annual Rose Award for Volunteerism presented at the recent annual meeting of the Providence Warwick Convention and Visitor's Bureau (CVB). Congratulating Richard are George T. Marshall, (from left) RIIFF Executive Director; Lawrence J. Andrade, RIIFF Board Member; and Donald Laliberte, Bell Street Chapel Board Member.


Christopher Rondina at book signing at the Providence Public Library sponsored by RIIFF during the RI Horror Film Festival

 

chris

Photo by Paul Ruggeri

 

"The Rhode Island International Film Festival is proud to support public libraries statewide. We share an important mission in serving Rhode Island's diverse communities. RIIFF looks forward to working with the libraries to bring great cinema to our local audiences,"

-- George T. Marshall, Executive Director of RIIFF


Breaking News: RI International Horror Film Festival Winners Announced:

37 films from across the globe vie for adjudicated genre awards

 

horror

Photos by Paul Ruggeri

(PROVIDENCE, RI) • The eerie, macabre and bizarre in the world of cinema were given their due with the wrap of the tenth Annual RI International Horror Film Festival through adjudicated awards. From an entry base of more than 250 entries, 37 films were screened during the cinematic symphony of horror, October 22-25th at the Bell Street Chapel and Providence Public Library in Providence. Attending this year were the cast and crew from 11 of the films screened during the Festival ... please click here for more.

 

• Read reviews of fest films from Horror 101

_________

 

RIIFF SCREENPLAY COMPETITION WINNERS ANNOUNCED:

324 submissions received from throughout the
United States and across the glob
e

(PROVIDENCE, RI) • Randi Barnes from Los Angeles, California was the Grand Prize Winner for this year's 2009 Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) Screenplay Competition. The awards announcement was made Wednesday by George T. Marshall, RIIFF Executive Director. The winning screenplay “Haunted House Sitter,” follows the misadventures of twelve-year old Kirby Barrett who thinks he's found the ideal summer job taking care of his neighbors' house, but he gets more than he bargained for when it turns out to be haunted by a rather angry spirit.

To read more about about this year's winners and the prizes awarded, please click here.


December 17th:

You Be the Judge Night.

Presented in cooperation with Rhodywood, this popular series continues with a new season that will reveal some of the entries that are under consideration for our 2010 Festival. Join us at 7:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. This film event will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Suggested donation: $5. Map it:

 

December 10th:

RIIFF in New York

Astoria Indies hosts GEORGE T. MARSHALL, executive director of the Academy-Award nominating Rhode Island International Film Festival. Mr. Marshall will present a selection of short films from around the world, including Academy-nominated and shortlisted films that premiered at RIIFF.

For industry types, you’re welcome to join us after the screening for a Q&A with Mr. Marshall on the state of indie film, his use of alternative screening venues, and what he and other programmers look for when selecting films for the Academy-Award nominating festival. MAP IT.

 

WHEN: Thursday, December 10th
TIME: Doors @ 7:30 pm, Shorts @ 8:00 pm
WHERE: Bohemian Beer Garden, Astoria, Queens
WHAT: George T. Marshall presents Academy-Award qualifying shorts from RIIFF

 

December 9th:

RIIFF Best of Fest Encore

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) is pleased to bring back our popular "Best of Fest" programming showcasing films that screened during our 2009 Festival. The location for the screenings is the Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street in Providence. Show time at 7:00 p.m. Admission Donation of $10; RIIFF members $8. For more information, click here. Map it:

 

November 19th:

You Be the Judge Night

Presented in cooperation with Rhodywood, this popular series returns for a new season as we reveal some of the entries that are under consideration for our 2010 Festival. Join us at 7:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. This film event will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Suggested donation: $5. Map it:

 

November 11th:

RIIFF Best of Fest Encore

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) is pleased to bring back our popular "Best of Fest" programming showcasing films that screened during our 2009 Festival. The location for the screenings is the Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street in Providence. Show time at 7:00 p.m. Admission Donation of $10; RIIFF members $8. For more information, click here. Map it:

 

RI International Horror Film Festival

Returns October 22-25, 2009

horror09

Now in its 10th ghoulish year! This year's programming promises to be truly amazing with major premieres, a book signing, a walking tour and much much more. 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 Bell Street Chapel in Providence. Click here to learn more... 

 

October 22-25th: (Final Day!)

The RI International Horror Film Festival

Now in its 10th ghoulish year! This year's programming promises to be truly amazing with major premieres, a book signing, a walking tour and much much more. 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 Bell Street Chapel in Providence. Click here to learn more... 

 

SPECIAL EVENT:

October 24th:

lovecraftH.P. LOVECRAFT WALKING TOUR

Special tour will explore Lovecraft’s favorite Providence haunts

Providence native and cult horror writer H.P. Lovecraft will be the subject of a special walking tour and film series during the annual Rhode Island International Horror Film Festival (RIHFF), October 22 – 25th. The tour will take place on Saturday, October 24th . Following the tour, which begins at 1:00 p.m. and lasts for approximately 90 minutes, participants will be treated to a special screening of films called "RIIFF Bloody Shorts of Horror," at the Bell Street Chapel in Providence inspired by Lovecraft’s stories including "The Music of Erich Zann," directed by Jared Skolnick. For more information and to order advance tickets, please click here.

 


 

October 15th:

Third Thursday Art Film Series

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) will collaborate on a series of films that explore topics in art.  Screenings will take place 6:30 p.m. at the new Chace Center Auditorium in the RISD Museum of Art, 20 N. Main Street, Providence, RI.  All screenings are free and open to the public.  For more information please contact the RIIFF office at (401) 861-4445 or the Museum office at (401) 454-6500.

 

October 1st:

"OPERATION MILITARY BRAT" in Rhode Island

Operation Military Brat features free screenings of "BRATS: Our Journey Home" in 50 cities across the country, followed by town-hall meetings to share your stories and brainstorm ways to help brats. (BRATS is the first documentary about growing up military, narrated by Kris Kristofferson that screened at RIIFF.) For more info, see www.bratsfilm.com:


10/1 - Providence, RI - Providence Public Library Theater - 6:30 p.m
.

 

June 4th - September 24th

moviesMovies on the Block!

Bring your friends and family to watch your favorite flicks on Providence's only outdoor movie screen. Once again, for the third year, RIIFF is pleased to be collaborating with Michael Corrente and Michael Corso and presenting some of our best short films prior to each screening. The series has become so popular that last year, Movies on the Block was awarded a "Best of Rhode Island" by RI Monthly.

 

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!

 

Programming starts June 4th and continues through September 24th.

6/04 • Cinderella Man

6/11 • Back to the Future

6/18 • The Sting

6/25 • Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory

7/02 • Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid

7/09 • Walk the Line

7/16 • Ferris Bueller's Day Off

7/23 • North by Northwest

7/30 • The Chronicle of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe

8/06 • Jaws 3-D

8/13 • History of the World, Part 1

8/20 • For Your Eyes Only

8/27 • Rainman

9/03 • Wayne's World

9/10 • Cannonball Run

9/17 • The Graduate

9/24 • Sixteen Candles

September 17th:

Third Thursday Art Film Series

Tonight: “Enishi Ni Egaku (Drawing on Fate: Artist toshio Kajiyama)”

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) and the Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) will collaborate on a series of films that explore topics in art.  Screeings will take place 6:30 p.m. at the new Chace Center Auditorium in the RISD Museum of Art, 20 N. Main Street, Providence, RI.  All screenings are free and open to the public.  For more information please contact the RIIFF office at (401) 861-4445 or the Museum office at (401) 454-6500.

 

August 27-28th:

Best of the Rhode Island International Film Festival Screenings

Screenings of the Best of 2009 as curated by Joce Donaghue of the Courthouse Center for the Arts. Click here for more details.

 

adamRIIFF Producing Director -

ADAM SHORT

Honored by the Providence Business News

RIIFF sincerely congratulates Adam Short, Producing Director of the acclaimed festival - for having been selected as one of Providence Business News' "40 Under 40." The 5th annual ceremony will recognize young members of the state's business and nonprofit communities for career success, community involvement, and a commitment to making a difference. This year's list was chosen from a record number of applications. The awards ceremony will be held on July 30th at the International Tennis Hall of Fame in Newport. Adam started as a volunteer with RIIFF in 2003. As Producing Director he has created the Roving Eye Documentary Film Festival, the Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival, CineOLE Spanish Film Series, and the Technology Forum. He is currently pursuing an MBA from Bryant University. To learn more about Adam, click here...

 

poster design by Carolina Arentsen • www.hintstudio.com

kids

Recent graduates of this year's KidsEye™ 2008 Summer Filmmaking Camp at the wrap session.

Thanks to the University of Rhode Island for once again hosting the camp and the College of

Arts & Sciences and the Film Media Program. The Official Red Carpet Premiere of the work by KidsEye camperswas on Friday, August 8th at 7:00 p.m., Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street, Providence. More than 200 friends and family filled the hall for an SRO event!

Special thanks to Rule Broadcast/Boston Camera for their annual support of this program!

 

richard

RIIFF announces the

2009 RIIFF Community Outreach Program

and the Adopt-a-Film Initiative. With stories abounding about the harsh realities facing non-profit organizations from demands for mergers to cutbacks in services, the non-profit Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF), has an unusual twist to the current sponsorship environment: It is not asking for money, but giving it away.

 

This year, two special programs will be offered to support non-profits in Rhode Island: The 2009 RIIFF Community Outreach Program and the Adopt-a-Film Initiative. These were created with the idea that film offers new perspectives and possibilities for an ever changing world. For the seventh year RIIFF has created --and this year, has expanded-- a unique opportunity for other non-profits to raise funds through its annual Festival, August 4-9, 2009. Called the RIIFF “Adopt-a-Film” Initiative, the programs allows non-profit organizations access to film festival tickets that they can sell to their own audience and keep the money!

 

Applications can be submitted from May 4th until July 1st. To learn more about the programs, click here. To read the news release, click here.

 

williamShatnerBREAKING NEWS:

WILLIAM SHATNER AWARD PRESENTATION OF THE 2009 NATHANAEL GREENE HUMANITARIAN AWARD POSTPONED.

Event hosted by RIIFF, the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities (RICH) and Rhode Island College to be rescheduled: recent film work “William Shatner's Gonzo Ballet," to still be screened

Due to contractual obligations for an upcoming film project, William Shatner will be unable to attend the 2009 Rhode Island International Film Festival. Shatner was scheduled to receive the Nathanael Greene Humanitarian Award - presented by the festival the Rhode Island Council of the Humanities and Rhode Island College– on Thursday, August 6 at 6:45 p.m. 

 

“We realize that many of Shatner’s fans will be disappointed that he won’t be coming to the festival this summer,” commented RIIFF’s Executive Director, George T. Marshall.  “We are currently in discussions with his agent to bring him in at a later date during the year. We appreciate the patience and understanding that his local fan base has shown in light of his sudden and unexpected decision.”

 

All online sales will be promptly refunded and each purchaser will be receiving an email confirmation. Processed phone orders will also be refunded and each purchaser will receive confirmation via phone or email. For questions about refunds, please contact the RIIFF office at (401) 861-4445; hours of operation are Monday thru Friday 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

 

The program for the evening will continue as planned with these changes:

6:45 p.m.
Cinema Secrets: A Conversation with…
Unvarnished, unplugged and unadvertised. Hollywood Producer (Space Jam, Everyone’s Hero) Ron Tippe will lead a conversation with some of this year’s attending filmmakers.

 

Plus this special screening making its Festival debut:
On the Lake: Life and Love in a Distant Place
Directed by David Bettencourt
(2008, 60 min. U S A)
ON THE LAKE: Life and Love in a Distant Place tells the true story of the tuberculosis epidemic in America in the 1900s and globally today through the lives of those that were infected and who died –– but also of those who survived. More than scientific facts and figures, ON THE LAKE touches that rare emotional cord of what life was like for millions of people infected with TB, while providing a glimpse into human nature when faced with a large-scale epidemic.

 

Through powerful storytelling, ON THE LAKE shines new light on a major period in our collective history that has been forgotten –– and a disease that many today think is “dead,” but is in fact the number-two infectious killer globally (after HIV/AIDS).

 

Presented in collaboration with the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities (RICH) and Rhode Island College.

 

8:30 p.m.
Behind the Ballet…
Meet award-winning choreographer Margo Sappington who will share her stories about the creation of the ballet, 'Common People,' which was produced at the Milwaukee Ballet with William Shatner’s music. She will answer questions from the audience, prior to the film screening.

 

WILLIAM SHATNER GONZO BALLET
Directed by Kevin Layne, Pat Buckley, Andrew Swant and Bobby Ciraldo
(2008, 51 min. U S A)
On a cold Milwaukee night, high art meets pop culture as the music of William Shatner ('Star Trek,' 'Boston Legal') and Ben Folds (Ben Folds Five), from their critically acclaimed album, 'Has Been,' is transformed into 'Common People,' a ballet from award winning choreographer Margo Sappington ('Oh! Caluctta!).

 

'Gonzo Ballet' explores this unique collaboration, as well as the musical journey that has taken William Shatner from the trippy covers of 'Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds' and 'Mr. Tambourine Man' in the 1960's to his recent original work with Ben Folds, and finally, to the ballet.

 

The willingness of the audience to accept new work, especially work based upon a pop album, is explored, as is the popularity of ballet in our culture. 'Gonzo Ballet' takes us from Shatner's musical beginnings, and the critical misfires, to his finally 'getting it right' with Ben Folds, and to the unlikely collaboration with Margo Sappington. What shines through is each artist's dedication to their work, and to each other.

 

To be screened with--
Out of the Blue
Directed by Michael Lavelle
(2009, 9 min. Ireland)
It looks like love has passed Georgie by until he discovers a strange television floating in the sea. He takes it home only to discover that there's more to it than meets the eye.

Tickets for the 6:45 p.m. “Conversation” and screening are $10. Tickets for the 8:30 p.m. film screening of “Gonzo Ballet” are $10. Both can be purchased in advance online at
www.RIFilmFest.org. The full festival schedule can be found here:

 

http://riff.bside.com/2009/schedule/week

 

Proceeds from the screening will support the Rhode Island Council for the Humanities and Rhode Island College.

 

August 3rd:

ScriptBiz.09

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 13th Annual Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) proudly presents ScriptBiz.09, a one 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. For more information, please click here...

 

Special Event and Film Screening

lark2Presented in Collaboration with the Armenian Historical Association of Rhode Island

Join us as we present a landmark Italian film by Paolo and Vittorio Taviani: "The Lark Farm" (La Masseria Dellee Allodole) featuring an Introduction by Antonia Arslan, author of the novel "Skylark Farm" upon which the film is based; and a panel discussion with Catherine M. Sama, Associate Professor of Italian & Film Media University of Rhode Island; Dikran M. Kaligian, Visiting Assistant Professor, Regis College; and Marc A. Mamigonian, Director of Academic Affairs National Assoc. for Armenian Studies & Research (NAASR). The evening starts at 6:30 p.m. The location: The Columbus Theatre Arts Center, 270 Broadway, Providence, RI. Tickets are $12.00 and can purchased in advance by clicking here...

 

woods hole

We recently had the privilege of taping a segment of Chronicle at WCVB in Boston with our good friends of the Woods Hole Film Festival. Their festival is now in its 18th year and has long been known as haven for independent filmmakers. The Festival runs July 25th-August 1st. In the photos are Demetria Carr and George Marshall of RIIFF and Judy Laster, Exec. Dir. of Woods Hole.

 

 

 

2008 RIIFF Award Winners Announced:

Main Film FestivalScreenplay CompetitionHorror Fest

 

2008 Film Schedule

Click to discover programming Click Here for General Fest Info

See Paul Ruggeri's Photos of the Festival:

See Photos by Keith Brown and Jenn Dlugos

Read Abra Moore's Blogs for "The Independent": • One • Two • Three

 

Listen to the 2008 Festival:RIIFF CommercialScriptBiz™ Commercial Fest PodcastsFestival Wrap Mini-Interviews


RIIFF RECESSION BUSTER TICKETING PACKAGES RETURN for 2009...

 

tktThe 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. The stock market has been a roller coaster, impacting our 401(k)s, investments and IRAs. Oil prices have also been tumultuous, affecting home heating oil prices and of course, gasoline. According to economists, the number of states in the US in recession keeps rising. Rhode Island has been in this group for quite some time and currently has one of the highest unemployment rate in the country.

 

We don't have a magic bullet to solve the problem. And while things are starting to improve a bit, we also know that it will be some time before new hiring takes place and we have some sense of normalcy.

 

So the question we faced as a non-profit community organization was what could we do to help so that you could attend the Festival; and if you attended, how to make the the Festival experience a bit less of a financial burden. We also wanted to provide encouragement to those who may want to attend but have to watch their money.

 

What we came up with was something we call our "RI RECESSION BUSTER PACKAGE" which can be purchased online. When we first released this program for a limited run in the Summer of 2008, it was a hit.

 

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 4th, 2009. Our 2008 event featured actor, John Ratzenberger as MC for the evening. Who will be on the stage this year?

 

The cost: $50.

 

That's an $80 value at almost 50% off; a $30 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. What a wonderful present as it's a gift that will keep on giving.

 

For more information and to order the "RI RECESSION BUSTER PACKAGE" click here...

 


"The Topsy Turvy World of Gilbert & Sullivan"

Exceptional performances and large crowd made for an amazing evening at the Bell Street Chapel in Providence

 

topsy
Members of the G&S Flickers Ensemble at the premiere of the "Topsy Turvy World of Gilbert

& Sullivan, April 4th (from the front, left) Edgar Edwards, Roberta Janelle,Mary Beth Kim,

Melissa Jacobson, (from back, left) Gabriel Alfieri and Eric R. Bronner.

(photo taken by Paul Ruggeri)

 

OSLO Photo Gallery, click here OSLO history, click here

 

"The Topsy Turvy World of Gilbert & Sullivan" is a new musical review presented in a live performance by the newly formed Flickers G&S Ensemble. (Flickers is the producer of RIIFF.) The program is under the artistic leadership of Eric R. Bronner in his directorial debut. This special concert celebrates the 2tth Anniversary of the Flickers Arts Collaborative and is dedicated to the memories of Scott Withrow, Ted Tuttle, the Ocean State Light Opera (OSLO) and features many of the original cast members. The premiere performance took place the the historic Bell Street Chapel in Providence to an audience of 127 fans. • For more information about this program, please click here...


 

blytheACTRESS BLYTHE DANNER RECEIVES RIIFF'S CREATIVE VISION AWARD FOR SIGNIFICANT CONTRIBUTION TO THE ARTS AT FESTIVAL’S 12TH YEAR ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

Every year, the Rhode Island International Film Festival recognizes outstanding directors, actors, and film talent for their contributions to the art of filmmaking with the Creative Vision Award. Actress Blythe Danner was the 2008 recipient of this esteemed award. Danner’s gleaming performances are an inspiration to our local theater and filmmaking community. Danner’s film Side by Each was featured at the 2008 festival, and had its World Premiere on Saturday, August 9th at the Columbus Theatre Arts Center, 270 Broadway, Providence, RI. Click here to learn more...

 

jenkinsRICHARD JENKINS RECEIVES RIIFF'S

2008 GEORGE M. COHAN AWARD:

Acclaimed Actor/Director Recognized at 2008 Film Festival for Serving as Rhode Island's Ambassador for the Arts

Every year, the Rhode Island International Film Festival recognizes outstanding directors, actors, and film talent for their contributions to the art of filmmaking. In 2008, the spotlight turned to an outstanding artist whose work, passion, and drive epitomizes a level of excellence which reflects creatively on their Rhode Island roots.  The Award: The George M. Cohan Ambassador Award. Named after famed Providence entertainer George M. Cohan, who was born on the 4th of July, this award honors truly unique Americans who have made a timeless contribution to the arts and have inspired future generations of Rhode Islanders. The first-ever recipient: Actor/Director, Richard Jenkins. Click here to learn more... UPDATE: In January 2009, Richard Jenkins was nominated for an Academy Award for his role in "The Visitor."


rhodyRIMonthly

Welcome to our Community Partners...

We are very pleased to welcome aboard Rhodywood and Rhode Island Monthly as our community partners with the Rhode Island International Film Festival.

 

Rhodywood is designed to connect the filmmaking community. It's a wonderful regional resource that shares work, events and networking opportunities.

 

Rhode Island Monthly is an exceptional way to learn about all things Rhode Island. For filmmakers coming to our state, this should be your first stop to gain understanding about the Ocean State, and what makes it so special.


CALL FOR RHODE ISLAND

SHORT FILM FILMMAKERS

RIIFF is proud to support and be a sponsor of this annual event!

(Entry deadline Thursday March 26, 2009)

 

courtLIFE - Local Indy Filmmakers Evening

April 18th 2009 at 7:00 PM

 

THE COURTHOUSE CENTER FOR THE ARTS, P.O. Box 186,

West Kingston, RI 02892 3481 Kingstown Rd. (Rte. 138)

1 ½ miles west of URI PH: 401-782-1018 • www.courthousearts.org

 

The Courthouse Center for the Arts will be hosting its third local independent filmmakers’ evening (LIFE) April 18th 2009. If you have a completed short film (MUST be under 15 minutes in length) submit your film for consideration. Rhode Island residents, students, and former residents are all eligible to submit a film. Film entry submissions will be accepted now and through Thursday March 26th, 2009.

 

Grand prize award of $500, two $250 awards for the best films, and passes to the 2009 Rhode Island International Film Festival.

 

For more information, visit the website of the Courthouse Center for the Arts by clicking here...


 

netfilm

netfilm has teamed up with the Rhode Island International Film Festival and Movie Outline software for the Split-Short Film Contest. We are extremely excited about this year's contest and are looking forward to all of the creative entries. Prizes for this contest include festival screenings, a Hi-Def Sony Camcorder, Movie Outline Software and much, much more. The best part of all - Entry is FREE!!!

 

The contest will be setup similar to netfilm's Split- Screenplay Contest where each entrant is placed in one of two divisions and will review short films that are in the opposite division of their own. This way, you are not competing with the films that you review for the first round. The top films from the first round will be reviewed by a panel of judges who will determine the top of the top.

 

Check out all the details at Split-Short Film Contest by clicking here...


Congratulations to the Best Live Action Short “Spielzeugland (Toyland)” at the 81st Academy Awards

toyland

The winners for the 81st Annual Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have been announced. And what exciting news; three films that played RIIFF in 2008 were nominated: "This Way Up" Adam Foulkes, Alan Smith, Directors, United Kingdom for Best Animated Short; "New Boy" Steph Green, Director, Ireland, and “Spielzeugland (Toyland)” Jochen Alexander Freydank, Director, Germany, for Best Live Action Short .

 

The winner: “Spielzeugland (Toyland).” An amazing and original film that was the recipient of our International Discovery Award.

 

Congratulations are in order to all the nominations and winners at this year's Academy Awards.


IT'S A WRAP!

The Fourth Annual Roving Eye Film Festival

"Bridging the World Through Film"

Completed April 26-28th, 2009:rovingEye

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) presented its fourth annual Roving Eye Film Festival™ to exceptional and attentive crowds in a unique collaboration with Roger Williams University. The popular and acclaimed festival celebrating documentary films had a theme this year of “Bridging the World Through Film.” During the Festival, 11 documentary films were showcased. All screenings,were free of charge and open to the public. Thanks to all who had this event such a success. (Photo gallery coming soon.)

 

Festival Winners announced:

 

Roger Williams University Documentary Grand Prize: “Art & Copy” Doug Pray, Director, USA.

 

Audience Choice Award: “The Last Word,” Jesse Quackenbush, Director, USA.

 

Emerging Eye Directorial Discovery Award: “Transcending: The Wat Misaka Story” Bruce Alan Johnson and Christine Toy Johnson, Directors, USA.

 

To learn more about this year's programming, please click here...

 

Tuesday, June 16th:

Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series

of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $7; CCA & RIIFF members $5. For more information, click here. To learn more about the Courthouse Center for the Arts, click here...

 

yuletide

Saturday, June 13th:

Providence GLBT Film Festival Preview

Join us for the annual June preview of our upcoming GLBT sidebar Festival during RIIFF. This year, we'll be providing a "First Look" of an exciting new work: Rob Williams' "Make the Yuletide Gay," a hilarious comedy from the director of past RIIFF favorites, "Long Term Relationship," "Back Soon" and "3 Day Weekend."

 

The screening of RIIFF’s "'First Look' GLBT Preview" will take place at the historic Bell Street Chapel, 5 Bell Street in Providence, RI.

 

Date: Saturday, June 13th, 2009.

 

Time: The film "Make the Yuletide Gay" will screen at 7:30 p.m.

.

Cost: $10 general admission

For more information about the Providence GLBT Film Festival, click here.

 

Thursday, May 21st:

You Be the Judge Night.

Presented in cooperation with Rhodywood, this popular series returns for a new season as we reveal some of the entries that are under consideration for our 2009 Festival. Join us at 7:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. This film event will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Suggested donation: $5. Map it:

 

Tuesday, May 19th:

Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series

of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $7; CCA & RIIFF members $5.

For this month's screening RIIFF is very proud to present a "First Look" of an acclaimed feature film from Turkey, which will have its regional debut at the main Festival in August. Here's your chance to see it before anyone else! For more information (and the background on the film), click here. To learn more about the Courthouse Center for the Arts, click here...

 

oldhouseThursday, May 7th: Screening of "Old House Soul." Another chapter of “Old House Soul” (a work in progress) will be screened 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m. at the Providence Public Library in the Barnard Room, 3rd floor, 150 Empire St., Providence. “Old House Soul” is a documentary by Don Manley and Michel Schtakleff about the late preservationist, Steve Tyson Sr. and the tradition of architectural preservation in Rhode Island. Steve Tyson’s company Architectural Preservation Group established in 1978, is responsible for preserving hundreds of historic sites, buildings and houses across Rhode Island. This installment focuses on the preservation of Moffett Mill in addition to a piece documenting Don Manley’s relocation and restoration of his house in Foster, Rhode Island. The event will also feature a musical performance by “Detroit Rebellion” a contributor to the bluesy-folk soundtrack of the documentary. For more information: www.oldhousesoul.com This event is free to the public!

 

URI

April 30th:

URI's Visualizations Film Festival

Now in its 11th year, the Visualizations Student Film Festival encourages URI undergraduate students to produce a diverse array of films and videos in a variety of formats. In addition, the Festival recognizes students who write critically about film, as well as those who write original film treatments. Through this annual event, students compete for prizes and have their films screened at public events and acknowledged by their peers, faculty, friends and family. Also, The Fred Joyal Best of Festival Prize will be judged and selected from among the winners in each category at the Awards Ceremony on April 30. We are pleased that RIIFF is a major sponsor of this event.

 

The screenings and awards ceremony are free and open to the public. Visualizations 2009 includes six production categories: Animation, Experimental, Documentary, News Segment, Commercial/PSA, and Narrative/Open; plus two writing categories: Critical Essay and Film Treatment. All current undergraduate students enrolled for the academic year 2008/2009 are eligible to submit competitive entries to the Festival. Held 7:00 p.m. in Swan Hall Auditorium at the Kingston Campus. Admission is free. For a link to the 2009 Festival, please click here...

 

The Fourth Annual Roving Eye Film Festival

"Bridging the World Through Film"

April 26-28th, 2009:rovingEye

The Rhode Island International Film Festival (RIIFF) is proud to present its fourth annual Roving Eye Film Festival™. The popular and acclaimed festival celebrating documentary films is pleased to announce its 2009 schedule. The theme this year is “Bridging the World Through Film.” During the Festival, which runs April 26-28th, 11 documentary films will be showcased. All screenings, unless otherwise noted, will be free of charge and open to the public and screened on the campus of Roger Williams University in Bristol, RI.

 

The 2009 Roving Eye Film Festival will cover such themes ripped from the headlines: torture and rendition's place in a democratic society; human rights in Africa; the efficacy of the death penalty; a profile on Wat Misaka, the first person of color to be drafted into the NBA; escaping the web of poverty in the inner city through education outreach; and the impact of advertising on our culture.

 

Many of the film's directors will be in attendance. Panel/roundtable discussions include "The Making of a Documentary Film: From Local to Global" with filmmakers David Bettencourt, G. Wayne Miller, John Lavall, Jessica Jennings and Joseph Sousa; plus "Interrogate This: Psychologists Take on Terror" lead by Dr. Maryanne Galvin, forensic psychologist, with Dr. Matt C. Zaitchik, Associate Professor in Psychology, Roger Williams University, John P. Zanini, Esq. and RWU Visiting Assistant Professor Jon W. Shelburne.

 

To learn more about this year's programming, please click here...

 

 

 

glbt expo

 

On March 21-22nd, RIIFF was once again at the 16th Original GLBT Expo which took place at the Jacob Javits Center, W. 38th & 11th Avenue, NYC. (See see the full line up of events, click on the image to the right). This year, along with our popular booth, we co-hosted a video lounge with our friends at the Long Island Gay and Lesbian Film Festival. Along with sampling from V2 Vodka, we also had a cooking show and music videos introduced by the artists. The lounged was packed on both days with the Expo drawing in over 22,000 attendees. Thanks to our staff, Lawrence Andrade and Paul Ruggeri for their support, Stephen Flynn of the LIGFF and his volunteers, plus the City of Providence, the Providence/Warwick CVB, and the City of Warwick. Click here for a link to learn about the Expo • To see our photo album from the 2008 event, click here

 

Thursday, April 23rd: Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival
yangtzeThe Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival (GJCFF) is an 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 Guangzhou Documentary Film Festival.  Programming features contemporary narrative and documentary films from mainland China. Free to the general public. To learn more about the festival, click here...

THE WHO, WHAT AND WHEN OF IT:
Program: UP THE YANGTZE

The documentary follows the lives of two young Chinese working on a luxury cruise ship that feeds the hunger of tourists to have a last look at the Yangtze River’s legendary valley. The film observes the astonishing transformation of China’s longest river as well as the human impact brought by the largest hy-droelectric project in history, the Three Gorges Dam.
Date: Thursday, April 23rd
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Bryant University; Janikies Auditorium, Unistructure, Smithfield, RI
Cost: Free. Chinese food will be provided for $5.00/person. Come to experience a Chinese night with movie, food and souvenir.

Tuesday, April 21st: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $7; CCA & RIIFF members $5. For more information, click here. To learn more about the Courthouse Center for the Arts, click here...

 

Thursday, April 9th: Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival
The Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival (GJCFF) is an 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 Guangzhou Documentary Film Festival.  Programming features contemporary narrative and documentary films from mainland China. Free to the general public. To learn more about the festival, click here...

THE WHO, WHAT AND WHEN OF IT:
Program: “Young and Restless in China”
Date: Thursday, April 9th
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Bryant University; Janikies Auditorium, Unistructure, Smithfield, RI
Cost: Free

"The Topsy Turvy World of Gilbert & Sullivan"

Coming April 4th - presented by the Flickers G&S Ensemble

 

erb
Eric Bronner, tenor, and Mary Beth McGrath Kim, soprano, team up to direct this concert

homage to the G&S legacy of the original Ocean State Light Opera; pictured here from

OSLO archives in 'Yeomen of the Guard." (photo taken by George T. Marshall)

 

Saturday, April 4th: "The Topsy Turvy World of Gilbert & Sullivan" will be presented in a live performance by the newly formed Flickers G&S Ensemble. The program will be under the artistic directorship of Eric R. Bronner. This special concert is part of our ongoing 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Flickers Arts Collaborative and is dedicated to the memories of Scott Withrow, Ted Tuttle, the Ocean State Light Opera (OSLO) and will feature many of the original cast members. The location for this very special event will be the historic Bell Street Chapel in Providence. • To read about the history of the Ocean State Light Opera, click here • For more information about this program and to order tickets, please click here...

 

Upcoming Performances:

 

Saturday April 18th

• The Community Concert Series at St. Michael’s Episcopal Church, Bristol, 8:00 p.m.

 

Sunday April 19th
• Tiverton Community Chorus with guest soloists from the Flickers G&S Ensemble, St. Theresa’s Church, Tiverton, 4:00 p.m.

 

Saturday April 25th • Tiverton Community Chorus with guest soloists from the Flickers G&S Ensemble, St. John’s, Westport, MA, 7:30 p.m.

 

Also for fans of Gilbert & Sullivan...

April 3-5th:

Brown University Gilbert and Sullivan is proud to present their fully staged and orchestrated Spring Show of Iolanthe, or The Peer and the Peri. This entirely free and open to the public production of one of Gilbert & Sullivan’s classics will be showing from Friday the 3rd of April to Sunday the 5th of April in Alumnae Hall of Brown University (8 pm showings on Friday and Saturday, as well as a 2 pm matinee on Saturday and a 3 pm matinee on Sunday). For reservations or inquiries please visit http://www.brown.edu/Students/BUGS/

 

Thursday, March 26th: Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival
The Golden Jasmine Chinese Film Festival (GJCFF) is an 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 Guangzhou Documentary Film Festival.  Programming features contemporary narrative and documentary films from mainland China. Free to the general public. To learn more about the festival, click here...

THE WHO, WHAT AND WHEN OF IT:
Program: “Colorful Seasons in China” and “One Thousand Years of Shaolin Temple”
Date: Wednesday, March 26th:
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Bryant University; Room Papitto, Bryant Center, Smithfield, RI
Cost: Free

GLEXPOMarch 21-22nd: RIIFF at the 16th Original GLBT Expo. Jacob Javits Center, W. 38th & 11th Avenue, NYC. (See see the full line up of events, click on the image to the right). Every year, RIIFF participates in this respected Expo in the Big Apple where we promote the Festival, our GLBT sidebar and encourage visitors to come visit the Ocean State. The event draws about 20,000 over the two-day period. This year, along with our popular booth, we will co-host the a video lounge with our friends at the Long Island Gay and Lesbian Film Festival. This is an exciting event as many of our alumni filmmakers are on hand to answer questions and present new work. Our thanks to the City of Providence, the Providence/Warwick CVB, and the City of Warwick for their support. Click here for a link to learn about the Expo • To see our photo album from the 2008 event, click here • Download your discount coupon by clicking here

 

Thursday, March 19th: You Be the Judge Night. Presented in cooperation with Rhodywood, this popular series returns for a new season as we reveal some of the entries that are under consideration for our 2009 Festival. Join us at 7:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. This film event will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Suggested donation: $5. Map it:

 

first look09

Friday, March 20th:RIIFF's Annual "FIRST LOOK" Premiere Screening & Celebration: This special evening has become a signature event for RIIFF, and is now in its fifth year. Due to popular demand, we will be presenting a special evening of short films at which we will reveal some of the new work that will be playing at our upcoming August Festival. Be the first to see what may be the next nominees for major industry awards--and maybe even an Academy Award.

 

The evening has been designed for a relaxed social gathering where we salute several longterm supporters of RIIFF, raise a toast and then sit back and watch the premiere screening of exciting new cinematic work that you will not be able to see anywhere else! To learn more and order your tickets, please click here...

Tuesday, March 17th: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $7; CCA & RIIFF members $5. For more information, click here. To learn more about the Courthouse Center for the Arts, click here...

 

planetMarch 10th: Planet Forward-RWU: "Green Carpet" Premier at Roger Williams University at 8:30 p.m. in the Upper Commons. All faculty, staff, students and friends are invited to attend. There will be a special "guest host" video introduction, and then the first complete public viewing of the students' work.

 

Planet Forward-RWU is about Sustainability at Roger Williams University, located in Bristol, RI. A group of Communication students produced a series of videos about sustainability issues including Wind Power, Commuter Rail, Green Buildings and Bio Diesel.

 

The Backstory:
Roger Williams University was invited to be a founding partner in CNN Commentator Frank Sesno's latest web-to-broadcast project - Planet Forward (www.planetforward.org) The partnership has proven to be a very successful one. Nine talented Communications students, working closely with Professor Michael Scully and Assistant Vice President Judi Johnson produced 13 short videos on the topic of sustainability, most of which feature students and faculty from across the RWU campus. All of these videos have been accepted for inclusion on the Planet Forward website which launches on March 6, and some of them may appear on a PBS pilot of the same name, airing April 15.
.
On March 6, 2009, the Planet Forward RWU video catalog will publish on the PBS website. On April 15, 2009, Planet Forward will air on PBS.

 

Congratulations to the Nominees for the
81st Academy Awards

The nominations for the 81st Annual Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences have been announced. And what exciting news for many of the artists, filmmakers and films that played at our 2008 RIIFF.

Congratulations are in order to all nominations, and especially to the following:

BEST ACTOR

RICHARD JENKINS: Nominated for Best Actor for his amazing turn in "The Visitor." Richard was the recipient of our first ever George M. Cohan Ambassador Award winner.

BEST ANIMATED SHORT

"This Way Up" Adam Foulkes, Alan Smith, Directors, United Kingdom. This amazing film had its Festival premiere at RIIFF and won First Prize for Best Animation.

BEST LIVE ACTION SHORT

"New Boy" Steph Green, Director, Ireland. This poignant and crowd-pleasing film was part of our Opening Night Program and went on to win our First Prize for Best Short.

“Spielzeugland (Toyland)” Jochen Alexander Freydank, Director, Germany. An amazing and original film that was the recipient of our International Discovery Award.

And while her work has not played the Festival ... yet -- our hearfelt congratulations to Rhode Islander, VIOLA DAVIS for her nomination for Best Supporting Actress for "Doubt." A graduate of Rhode Island College, Viola did amazing work at Trinity Repertory Company that foreshadowed her current Oscar-nominated turn. We could not be more proud of this amazingly talented actress from the Ocean State.

Academy Awards for outstanding film achievements of 2008 will be presented on Sunday, February 22, 2009, at the Kodak Theatre at Hollywood & Highland Center®, and televised live by the ABC Television Network. The Oscar presentation also will be televised live in more than 200 countries worldwide.

"The Rhode Island International Film Festival is proud to support public libraries statewide. We share an important mission in serving Rhode Island's diverse communities. RIIFF looks forward to working with the library to bring great cinema to our local audiences,"

-- George T. Marshall, Executive Director of RIIFF

cineoleFebruary 22nd: ¡Hola cine de España! Cine¡OLÉ! is your passport to discover 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. After, the audience will also get to judge some of the Spanish short film entries that have been submitted to the 2009 RIIFF in August. Providence Public Library, Central, Auditorium, 3rd floor, 150 Empire Street, Providence 02903. Time: 1:30 p.m. Suggested Audiences: Elders, Adult, College, High School. This is a free event for the community. MAP IT:

 

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

 

line

SHORT AND SWEET!

RIIFF's Annual Academy Award Preview Party

 

You hear the whirl of the camera. You see the flash of the bulb. The crowd starts to buzz. Style and arts converge on Sunday, February 22, 2009, when the Rhode Island International Film Festival presents SHORT AND SWEET! Academy Award Preview Party.

 

Walk the red carpet past the paparazzi. Celebrate the Oscars with RIIFF, filmmakers, special guests and people who love film. We'll be screening the nominated films that have hailed from RIIFF along with some new arrivals that could be next year's nominees.

 

And here's the skinny on why you should attend: there are over 7,000 film festivals world wide. Of these, only 63 are qualifying Festivals for the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. RIIFF is one of the 63 -- and the only one in New England. Period.This year, three films that had their premieres at the Festival are up for Awards. We'll be screening those films!

 

It's an afternoon you won't forget and a great way to kick off this year's Academy Awards. (And, this event won't break the bank--allowing you the chance to actually go and see those award-winning films you didn't see before the Oscars announcements.) We'll have door prizes from various Downcity merchants, catering by Aspire, as well as passes for the 13th annual Rhode Island International Film Festival which launches August 4-9, 2009.

 

 

 

All the Oscar glitz at a price you can afford!

Time: 4:00 - 6:30 p.m.
The Peerless Building
235 Westminster Street,
Providence, RI 02903

MAP IT:

 

The cost: $20, which includes food, film and refreshments. Click here for details and to order your ticket.Click here to learn more about the Academy Awards.

 

Thursday, February 19th: You Be the Judge Night. Presented in cooperation with Rhodywood, this popular series returns for a new season as we reveal some of the entries that are under consideration for our 2009 Festival. Join us at 7:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. This film event will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Suggested donation: $5. Map it:

 

Tuesday, February 17th: Courthouse Center for the Arts, Third Tuesday Encore Films Series of the 2008 RIIFF, Show time at 7:30 p.m. Admission Donation of $7; CCA & RIIFF members $5. For more information, click here.

 

Happiness/Harmony

January 16- February 15:

 

yes

Join us in celebrating Happiness/Harmony, spotlighting the work of award-winning Tokyo-based artist Kana Ito, only in the U.S. at YES Gallery + Studio.

 

Other fabulous YES Gallery artists and guest artists include Beth Ozarow, Megan Hinton, Bryan Nash Gill, Leah Giberson, Deborah Baronas, Cynthia Guild, Kathrine Lovell, Doug Desjardins, Karen Miller, Rachel Austin, Tom McAleer, Chantelle Goldthwaite, and more.

 

OPENING RECEPTION
FRIDAY JANUARY 16th
6:00 - 8:30 p.m.
nibbles & drinks

 

YES Gallery + Studio
146 Water Street
Warren, Rhode Island 02885
www.yesgalleryandstudio.com • (401) 245-7174

 

The YES Gallery + Studio is owned by artist Leigh Medeiros and features contemporary art by emerging and established regional, national & international visual artists. 5% of current exhibition proceeds to benefit the Flickers Art Collaborative, producers of the Rhode Island International Film Festival. Reach the Gallery at yesgalleryandstudio@gmail.com or by phone at (401) 245-7174. Please call for hours.

 

albertSunday, February 15th: The Words of Albert Schweitzer and the Music of J. S. Bach. A Multimedia Musical Dramatization Commemorating the 60th Anniversary of Dr. Schweitzer’s Visit to the U.S.A. Presented by the Rhode Island Chapter of the American Guild of Organists in conjunction with The First Baptist Church in America’s “Music at the Meetinghouse. Location: The First Baptist Church in America, 75 North Main Street, Providence, 3:00 P.M. Free-will donations will benefit PICA and RIAGO scholarship funds. For further information contact Stephen Martorella at 401-454-3418

 

We at RIIFF are very pleased to be providing technical support for this very special and unique event.

 

FridayCalling Horror Film Fans ... do we have an event for you!

Tuesday, February 10th: The Rhode Island International Horror Film Festival is proud to partner with Warner Bros for the release of the retelling of the classic, FRIDAY THE 13TH. We have a limited number of tickets available for this advance screening and are making them available to our members and friends.

 

To order your free tickets, use this Link:
http://www.gofobo.com/screenings/friday_13th/24663?promo_code=RIIHFF5169

 

Then use this RSVP Code:
RIIHFF5169

 

This pass is availbale on a first-come, first served basis and is good for Tuesday, February 10th, 2009 • 7:00PM at the Providence Place Theater • 1 Providence Place, Providence, RI

www.fridaythe13thmovie.com

 

Friday, January 23: You Be the Judge Night. Time: 7:00 p.m. Help us review Japanese short films for the 2009 Rhode Island International Film Festival. Also view selections from previous Black Ships Film Festivals. The event is free, but reservations are required due to limited seating. YES Gallery + Studio, 146 Water Street Warren, Rhode Island 02885 • www.yesgalleryandstudio.com • (401) 245-7174

 

News from Chris Jones and "Gone Fishing"

 

GoneFFor those who loved the film that premiered at the 2008 RIIFF, there's a great deal to report about what happened with Chris Jone's Grand Prize winning short. From the director comes this most recent post:

 

"As we welcome in 2009, I was delighted to get notice of two separate articles about Gone Fishing in two very prestigious film journals. First off is a great write up in Daily Variety, a piece about how short films contend for the Oscars. It’s really great news for us. You can read the article here on the Variety website.

 

Second is a stunning article in Kodak’s own magazine called InCamera. All those lovely images that we shot during filming have really paid off here, the main shot of Bill and Simon walking down the ‘leafy corridor’ having been snapped by Vernon our DP. You can read the PDF here (or there is a browser version here).gf

 

All in, a GREAT start to 2009.

 

Onwards and upwards!

 

Chris Jones, Film Maker and Author

 

PS. The new Gone Fishing PRESS website is now up and running. This is a dedicated website for members of the press and is not a film site about the movie. I decided to do this when I noticed while attending festivals, just how reluctant journalists seem to be now, to carry a press pack around with them. And it makes sense too, as I can continually update a digital one, as well as being eco friendlier

 

The URL is itself easy to remember too – www.gonefishingpress.com"

 

Thursday, January 15: You Be the Judge Night. Presented in cooperation with Rhodywood, this popular series returns for a new season as we reveal some of the entries that are under consideration for our 2009 Festival. Join us at 7:00 p.m. the Brooklyn Coffee & Tea House, 209 Douglas Avenue, Providence. This film event will be held on the 3rd Thursday of each month. Suggested donation: $5. Map it:

PellOur sincere condolences to the family, friends and all who mourn the passing of former Rhode Island Senator Claiborne Pell

 

On behalf of the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Flickers Arts Collaborative, we express our heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the family and friends of Claiborne deBorda Pell, former U.S. Senator from Rhode Island. Senator Pell died on New Years Day morning at his home in Newport, RI, just a few months following his 90th birthday.


Claiborne Pell was a supporter of the arts and culture in general. He was the author and chief Senate sponsor of the 1965 legislation that established the National Endowment for the Arts and the National Endowment for the Humanities. He helped to ensure both a federal and state commitment to the arts that has contributed culturally, educationally and economically to the benefit of all Americans. He also created the "Pell Grants" which have nurtured and benefited so many in the pursuit of a college education.

To Senator Pell's family and friends, in particular his wife, Nuala O’Donnell Pell, we send our thoughts and prayers. And to Senator Pell, we extend our sincere thanks for making a difference that has touched so many generations in such a positive way. You will be missed!

 

To learn more about Claiborne Pell, click here...


 

demetriaDemetria J. Carr named

RIIFF Managing Director

 

The Board of Flickers and the Advisory Board of the Rhode Island International Film Festival are pleased to announce the promotion of Demetria James Carr to the position of Managing Director. A member of the RIIFF staff for the past three years, she will oversee the creation of events, participate in marketing and work on developing community awareness, among other duties. Demetria holds a BA from Skidmore College, a Master’s in Physiology from the University of Hawaii, and an MBA from Pepperdine University in California. To learn more, click here...


Ruff Cutz Indie Film Conference

 

ruff2

ruffcutzOn Saturday, November 15th, the Rhode Island International Film Festival once again was 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, participates were able to take enjoy a 3 day weekend event that was full of film screenings, workshops and seminars. RIIFF's Executive Director, George T. Marshall hosted a panel that featured Shannon Murphy, CEO/President of Encounter Studios and Eric Latek, Director / Producer / Editor at Phantazma Pictures. Their discussion was on Selling Documentary Features: the Trials and Tribulations. Kudos to Jamie Benti and the hard working staff at RUFF CUTZ who made this invaluable and important event a reality!


THINGS THEY CARRY: American Vets Confront the Effects of War

 

leave no soldier

On Saturday, November 8th, The Rhode Island International Film Festival, the Bryant University College of Arts and Sciences, and ShrinkWrap Productions hosted a free screening and panel discussion in honor of Veterans' Day. Donna Bassin's award-winning documentary, "Leave No Soldier" was screened. Approximately 100 people were at Janikies Theatre located at Bryant University, Smithfield, RI. A panel discussion followed the screening and focused on the treatment and support available to returning soldiers as they reintegrate themselves into civilian life. The panel included filmmaker and clinical psychologist, Donna Bassin; Jan Berry – co-founder of Vietnam Veterans Against the War; Wayne Smith – Civil Liberties Director of the Unitarian Universalist Service Committee and a former U.S. Army medic; Berne Greene LICSW, BCD, Team Leader, Vet Center/Department of Veterans Affairs; HMCS(FMF) Kimberly A. Ripoli, Case Manager, Navy Safe Harbor Command, as well as a representative from the Rhode