2015 Newsletters

2015 newsletters

December 15, 2015

November 30, 2015

November 23, 2015

October 29, 2015

October 15, 2015

September 9, 2015

August 25, 2015

August 11, 2015

July 28, 2015

July 6, 2015

July 2, 2015

June 10, 2015 June 3, 2015

May 27, 2015

May 20, 2015

April 30, 2015

January 30, 2015

January 1, 2015

December 15, 2015

Evolution Is Upon Us at PTFF!

Who could imagine September without Keiko, our giant inflatable screen on Taylor Street? For 16 years PTFF has created magic in so many corners of our fair city. But technology is catching up with us. The Peter Simpson Free Cinema served up 1200 seats for film lovers at no charge again this year. The American Legion Theatre was filled to capacity night after night. But all of that could be changing. We need to upgrade our projection systems to allow for high definition images and state-of-the-art exhibition sound for our filmmakers. We hope you will consider a year end donation to make our transition possible in the 5 theatres PTFF builds from scratch to make your festival happen each September. Click HERE to visit our donation page. Enjoy this marvelous season of long nights–perfect for family and friends and film! Our offices will be closed for the holidays from Dec 24th until January 4th in the New Year. Make sure you return the films you’ve seen and stock up on films from the library before we close.

Wishing you and your family a heartfelt Holiday Season full of everything important

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

November 30, 2015

First Tuesday Salon, Rose Theatre, Dec. 1, 7 p.m. Spotlight, with guest Scott Wilson (Watch the trailer HERE )

(From The Toronto Film Festival, christianitytoday.com) “My biggest fear going into Spotlight, a historical drama that reenacts the Boston Globe’s exposé of clergy sex abuse in the Roman Catholic Church, was that auteur Tom McCarthy would find some way—probably through lionizing the journalists—to recast this horrific chapter of our history into a feel-good story. In America, we don’t mind movies that ask us to pity victims. But we sure seem to hate anyone or anything that asks us to not feel quite so good about ourselves.

I had nothing to worry about.

If anything, Walter Robinson’s (Michael Keaton) biggest epiphany is a bit of a Schindler moment: Why didn’t I do more? As Robinson and his team of investigative reporters act as our surrogates, they don’t lead us into the temptation of self-righteous hindsight, nor do they deliver us from realizing that we’re complicit in our silence. Spotlight is a serious film, both artistically and morally, and it wrestles with explosive content while never feeling exploitative or self-aggrandizing.” (For a professional review of Spotlight see: THIS)

Join us for a conversation with local editor Scott Wilson. He’ll discuss challenges newspapers face with increased pressure for in-depth coverage of events, while newsrooms’ budgets shrink.

Your membership to PTFF (that came with your 2015 Festival Pass at any price level) entitles you to a discount on admission and popcorn!

Enjoy this marvelous season of long nights–perfect for film, family and friends!

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

November 23, 2015 What Are You Grateful For? Where is “The Balcony Theatre?” First Tuesday Salon, December 1!

We’re grateful for YOU! Thanks to all our donors, business sponsors, volunteers and passholders for another great year!

Where is “The Balcony Theatre?” Two very special donors have made it possible to transform our office into a screening room in minutes. Named “The Balcony Theatre,” we can seat 35 film lovers for a movie any time of day. Our donors provided an 80-inch flat screen, the computer to project film and handsome blackout shades for our row of 6-foot-tall windows. This winter, watch for opportunities to join us for an evening film lecture, a special event--or contact our office about a private screening.

First Tuesday Salon, December 1! ‘Tis the season for incredible films. There are so many Oscar-worthy films that distributors are jockeying these films into the biggest theatres, hoping to capitalize on the suspense. As of Nov. 23, Rocky has no idea what will be screening on Dec 1. As soon as the film is committed and we have our speaker, we’ll send a notice to your email box. Remember that your membership to PTFF (that came with your 2015 Festival Pass at any price level) entitles you to a discount on admission and popcorn!

Enjoy this marvelous season of long nights–perfect for film, family and friends! Warm holiday greetings to you all,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

October 29, 2015

• Did you lose your Nikon at PTFF in September? • First Tuesday Salon Nov. 3 Bridge of Spies 7pm Rose Theatre with guest, Dr. Michael Cassella-Blackburn • Welcome our new PTFF Film Fellow, Christina Antonakos-Wallace

There is nothing as sad as a lost camera! If you attended our festival in September and went home without your Nikon, call & identify so we can reunite you with your friend.

First Tuesday Salon Nov. 3, Bridge of Spies, 7pm @ Rose Theatre Steven Spielberg brings us a tale from the Cold War that opens a chapter of history that many have wondered about for years. Writes Brian Tallerico on Roger Ebert.com, “As he has done at least a dozen times before, Spielberg captures the arc of a man who is caught up in something bigger than himself and somehow rises to the occasion. The “Man Under Pressure” this time is Jim Donovan (Tom Hanks), an insurance lawyer called into duty by his government when a man named Rudolph Abel (Mark Rylance), is captured for the crime of espionage against the United States on behalf of the USSR.

This role takes that ‘every man’ element of the Hanks persona and puts it at the heart of the Cold War and even American foreign policy.

Since Steven Spielberg began making films in the 1970s, he’s become one of our most essential cinematic historians. He’s often characterized as a director of the fantastic, and films like “Jurassic Park” and “A.I. Artificial Intelligence” certainly bolster this viewpoint, but it is his ability to distill world events into relatable, human stories in films like “Munich,” “Schindler’s List,” “Saving Private Ryan,” “Lincoln,” and many more that has arguably been underrated throughout his long and varied career. “Bridge of Spies” continues that tradition, in the best possible way.

Our Salon conversation following the film will feature Michael Cassella- Blackburn, from Peninsula College. His Ph.D. came from Syracuse University in modern American, Russian, and European History, with a specialty in Soviet- American Relations.

Welcome our new PTFF Film Fellow, Christina Antonakos-Wallace

One of the exciting aspects of working with up and coming artists is the opportunity to be of tangible assistance. Created in 2014, our Film Fellowship program is designed to provide workspace and lodging for filmmakers in the midst of post-production, allowing for concentrated effort away from the distractions of daily life. This year PTFF is honored to welcome Christina Antonakos-Wallace on November 17th for a 4-month residency.

Christina received her training in New York at the Parsons School of Design and The New School, supported by a scholarship from MTV. Her short films have won awards including the Media that Matters Change Maker Award 2011, the Euromedia Award for Culture & Diversity 2012, and the Aktiv für Demokratie und Toleranz award in 2014. As a girl growing up in the Seattle Greek community, “With Wings and Roots” grew out of her own questions of belonging.

PTFF’s first Film Fellowship, was awarded to co-directors Mo Scarpelli and Alexandria Bombach in 2014. Their completed film, “Frame by Frame,” subsequently won awards on the Film Festival circuit throughout the United States & around the world.

For more information about Christina Antonakos-Wallace and her projects click HERE and HERE. Have fun on Halloween, whatever that means for you!

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

October 15, 2015

PTFF & ACAC – Becoming Bulletproof & Free Screening of “Where’s Molly?” October 17 noon Rosebud Cinema

One of the many marvelous collaborations from this year’s film festival was discovering the work of the Accessibility Community Advisory Committee (ACAC). Their mission is to help bring all abilities to our community table. Their support of the film Becoming Bulletproof allowed PTFF to bring the star of the film, Jeremy Vest, who captivated our audiences with his honest, loving presence. He was accompanied by Peter & Ila Halby, founders of Zeno Mountain Farm, where Becoming Bulletproof was created. The amazing link here in Port Townsend was with our special guests, Chris Cooper & Marianne Leone Cooper. Their son, Jesse, who was born with severe Cerebral Palsy, attended Zeno Mountain camps, years ago. Their appreciation of the film was so profound that Chris is sponsoring a screening in Los Angeles on Oct 14th, in hopes of attracting an Academy Award nomination. This is one more way that our community is working together to make the world we imagine. Thank you, Anna McEnery and your great team.

Our next collaboration is a free screening of “Where’s Molly?” on Saturday October 17 at noon in the Rosebud Cinema. Only 78 seats are available, so stop by the Rose box office and pick up a ticket if you plan to attend.

“Where’s Molly?” Since he was 6 years old, Jeff Daly kept asking that question. When his sister Molly was not yet 3 years old, she was taken from their “perfect” home, never to return.

“When I found my sister 47 years after she was sent away, we reestablished a loving relationship and share our story with the hope that other families will be inspired to ask about and find a missing member.”

While his parents refused to talk about Molly, Jeff was left to wonder and to mourn the sudden and mystifying loss of his only sister. Now, 47 years later, Jeff finally learns the truth to the family secret that kept him from his sister in a reunion that will warm your heart and give you hope for the future of “less than perfect” people like Molly.

Happy October and thanks for making PTFF such a marvelous part of our little corner of the world,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

September 9, 2015

PTFF’s 2015 Festival Program is now posted on our website Festival Sneak Preview at Bainbridge Museum of Art, Sept. 10, 7p.m.

You can see events and the program for the 2015 Festival HERE. Look for stars on film listing to see directors attending with their screenings. We’ve linked films to websites and trailers.

Heads Up!For the first time, we might have to cap pass sales. If you plan to attend, now is the time to get your passes HERE or call us at 360-379-1333.

For our friends on Bainbridge Island:

See a Sneak Preview of the 2015 Film Festival, Sept. 10, 7 p.m. at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. Your $10 ticket brings you an evening of short films, inside scoop on our special guests, Beau Bridges and Chris Cooper. And refreshments. Thanks to BIMA for hosting! For tickets: HERE.

So who is coming to the festival this year?

In addition to our headliners- Beau Bridges, Chris Cooper & Marianne Leone Cooper, we have representatives from 30+ films. Meet Ron Maraning, one of the founders of Greenpeace who will address students at Port Townsend High School!

Hear about the inspiring mandolin playing of Sam Bush from director Kris Wheeler.

Visit Afghanistan with directors & PTFF Film Fellows Mo Scarpelli and Alexandria Bombach.

Remember the beautiful story pole that commemorates the tragic loss of John Williams, native carver from Seattle? Meet director Ian Devier who just won a region Emmy for his stirring documentary of John’s brother, Rick who chose a peaceful and dynamic solution to heart ache, which culminates with hundreds of citizens carrying the pole from Seattle Center to its home on Pioneer Square!

And don’t miss Romeo is Bleeding with hip hop poet, Donte Clark.

Looking for something to do this weekend? Its not too late to sign up to volunteer at the 39th Annual Wooden Boat Festival. This festival is one of the many reasons we LOVE this town! Click HERE. Happy summer,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

August 25, 2015

PTFF’s 2015 Festival Program is now posted on our website Outdoor movies: Mary Poppins at Fort Worden, Wed., Aug. 26. Cool Runnings, Port Ludlow, Fri., Aug. 28. Diary of a Teenage Girl, First Tuesday Salon, Starlight Room, Sept 1 Island Shakespeare Festival Festival Sneak Preview at Bainbridge Museum of Art, Sept. 10, 7p.m.

You can see events and the program for the 2015 Festival HERE. Look for stars on film listing to see directors attending with their screenings. We’ve linked films to websites and trailers.

Heads Up!For the first time, we might have to cap pass sales. If you plan to attend, now is the time to get your passes at www.ptfilmfest.com or call us at 360-379-1333.

August 26 is our last Sudden Cinema

and its in a great place—the old Fort Worden Mule Barn. with this stunning family favorite now celebrating 50 years–Mary Poppins! Watch this original trailer, before it won five Oscars! HERE. Thanks to The Pour House, the Fort Worden PDA, The Rose Theatre and our own PTFF film wizard, Gary Engbrecht for creating a summer full of film magic!

August 28

We visit Port Ludlow for an outdoor screening of Cool Runnings, a favorite short film from our archives, and a sneak peek of our Festival. Port Ludlow Marina, 8:30 p.m. Free. Thanks, Jaimie Dearing, for this invitation!

Diary of a Teenage Girl First Tuesday Salon, Starlight Room, Sept 1

Moira Macdonald writes in the Seattle Times, “Writer/director Marielle Heller, in her captivating debut film,"The Diary of a Teenage Girl," hits exactly the right tone for a complicated balancing act, and for a film that could very easily have gone wrong.” We’re looking forward to a spirited conversation about the challenges of adolescence and this startlingly honest portrait of a young woman coming of age. View the trailer HERE.

Island Shakespeare Festival

There is a marvelous opportunity to experience classical theatre in a great circus tent! Visit Island Shakespeare HERE for details, a list of productions and more about this regional treasure.

For our friends on Bainbridge Island: See a Sneak Preview of the 2015 Film Festival, Sept. 10, 7 p.m. at the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art. Your $10 ticket brings you an evening of short films, inside scoop on our special guests, Beau Bridges and Chris Cooper. And refreshments. Thanks to BIMA for hosting! For tickets: HERE.

Happy summer,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

August 11, 2015

FREE films this week!

Sudden Cinema at the Pourhouse, Weds August 12 When Harry Met Sally Come to the Jefferson County Fair Aug 14-16 for PTFF highlights from years gone by Fort Worden PDA hosts Mary Poppins Pass Sales for 2015 setting new records- we might sell out!

Sudden Cinema outdoors at the Pour House This hot weather and warm nights led us to collaborate with The Rose Theatre and our friends Ned and Virginia for “Sudden Cinema” at The Pourhouse, 2231 Washington St. Join us at dusk, August 12 for one more great comedy:

Thursday, August 12 When Harry Met Sally Harry and Sally have known each other for years, and they are really good friends. They fear that sex would ruin their friendship. Watch Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in this classic! Trailer: HERE.

Come to the Jefferson County Fair Aug 14-16, 2015 Come to the Yesteryear Building on the fairgrounds and watch a collection of favorite short films from PTFF. The building is cool, the popcorn will be warm and the films are free. Take a seat for a 25 minute program.

Our Jefferson County Fair is a celebration of the best parts of living in our glorious corner of the world and they deserve our support. You can spend a day visiting the animals, see glorious plants and gardens, meet your neighbors and remember why we are so lucky to be in this little rural paradise.

For pre sale tickets it is $5 at the gate $8 Or a season ticket for $15 – pre-sale includes beef BBQ at the fair! Tickets can be purchased at the Fairgrounds office 4907 Landes or season tickets can be purchased at Don’s, Safeway, QFC or Penny Saver in town. PTFF is happy to continue our efforts to promote community celebration with film! Don’t forget your hula skirt!

August 26, we top off Sudden Cinema at the Fort Worden Mule Barn with this stunning family favorite celebrating 50 years- Mary Poppins!

Watch this original trailer, before it won 5 Oscars! HERE.

Thanks to The Pour House, the Fort Worden PDA, The Rose Theatre and our own PTFF film wizard, Gary Engbrecht for creating a summer full of film magic!

Oh and you know that film festival we do in September, the one that is featuring Beau Bridges & Chris Cooper? Well, it turns out that other folks are noticing it too, and calling to get passes & learn about lodging. So, you might just want to buy your pass early this year and, perhaps, consider investing in a more expensive pass to make certain that you don’t miss a thing! Here is the LINK.

Happy summer,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

July 28, 2015

Sudden Cinema at the Pourhouse, Weds July 29th Stand By Me! First Tuesday Salon, Infinitely Polar Bear at The Starlight Room, August 4, 7:15p.m. Come to the Jefferson County Fair Aug 14-16 for PTFF highlights Pass Sales for 2015 setting new records- we might sell out!

Sudden Cinema outdoors at the Pourhouse

This hot weather and warm nights led us to collaborate with The Rose Theatre and our friends Ned and Virginia for “Sudden Cinema” at The Pourhouse, 2231 Washington St. Join us at dusk, Wednesdays, July 29 and August 12 for these great films:

July 29th - Stand By Me It's the summer of 1959 in Castlerock, Oregon and four 12 year-old boys - Gordie, Chris, Teddy and Vern - are fast friends. After learning of the general location of the body of a local boy who has been missing for several days, they set off into woods to see it. Along the way, they learn about themselves, the meaning of friendship and the need to stand up for what is right. For the trailer: click HERE.

Then, August 12 - When Harry Met Sally

Harry and Sally have known each other for years, and they are really good friends. They fear that sex would ruin their friendship. Watch Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal in this classic! Trailer: HERE. August 26, Top off Sudden Cinema at the Fort Worden Mule Barn !!! with this stunning family favorite celebrating 50 years- Mary Poppins! Watch this original trailer, before it won 5 Oscars! HERE

Thanks to The Pour House, the Fort Worden PDA, The Rose Theatre and our own PTFF film wizard, Gary Engbrecht for creating a summer full of film magic!

First Tuesday Salon, Infinitely Polar Bear at The Starlight Room, August 4, 7:15p.m. with guest counselor, Jill Rohde from Dove House

“Finding humor in a family that is struggling to navigate the hard road to a future they really cannot imagine-that is tough” writes Steven Rea, Philadelphia Inquirer Movie Critic, “Deeply personal and filled with love, Maya Forbes' Infinitely Polar Bear is nonetheless a hard movie to watch - hard to watch comfortably. Based on her experiences growing up with a father who was in and out of institutions, diagnosed with manic depression, Forbes' film throws a memoir-ish lasso around late-1970s Cambridge, Mass.- where a family with a wildly careening dad, a mom trying to pursue a career, and two girls caught in the throes- go about their lives.”

Anyone whose life has been impacted by mental illness will be sensitive to the seeming impossible nature of living with manic depression and loving that person. Join PTFF for a conversation following the screening with therapist and advocate, Jill Rohde. Jill works with families thru out Jefferson County.

Come to the Jefferson County Fair Aug 14-16, 2015 C

ome to the Yesteryear Building on the fairgrounds and watch a collection of favorite short films from PTFF. The building is cool, the popcorn will be warm and the films are free. Take a seat for a 25 minute program. Our Jefferson County Fair is a celebration of the best parts of living in our glorious corner of the world and they deserve our support. You can spend a day visiting the animals, see glorious plants and gardens, meet your neighbors and remember why we are so lucky to be in this little rural paradise.

For pre-sale tickets it is $5 at the gate $8 Or a season ticket for $15 – pre-sale includes beef BBQ at the fair! Tickets can be purchased at the Fairgrounds office 4907 Landes or season tickets can be purchased at Don’s, Safeway, QFC or Penny Saver in town.

PTFF is happy to continue our efforts to promote community celebration with film! Don’t forget your hula skirt!

Happy summer,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

July 6, 2015

Actor Chris Cooper will join Beau Bridges as a Special Guest of the Port Townsend Film Festival for their 16th annual September Festival. It is the first time PTFF has had two star headliners for their three-day event. The Festival runs Sept. 25-27, 2015, screening over 80 films in Port Townsend’s walkable National Historic District.

The Festival welcomes Beau Bridges on Friday night, Sept. 25, with a screening of “The Fabulous Baker Boys.” Shot in Seattle, Bridges co-starred in the film with his brother Jeff Bridges and Michelle Pfeiffer. A Q&A with Beau follows the film. Those holding paid directors and mogul passes are invited to attend “The Filmmakers’ Reception,” held in the Festival Bar on the Dock after the screening.

The Festival welcomes Chris Cooper on Saturday night, Sept. 26, with a screening of his film “Adaptation.” Based on Susan Orleans “The Orchid Thief,” the film stars Meryl Streep and Nicholas Cage. A Q&A with Cooper follows the screening. A reception open only to those holding paid Mogul-level passes will be held for Cooper and his wife, Marianne Leone Cooper, following the screening (location to be announced).

Award-winning Beau Bridges is one of the most versatile character actors in television and film, often playing radically different characters back to back. He currently is in his third season with Showtime’s “Masters of Sex,” a fictional account of sex therapists, Masters & Johnson. Chris Cooper won both an Academy Award and Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor for his role in Adaptation,” with Meryl Streep and Nicholas Cage. He also starred in John Sayle’s film, “Lone Star,” and was a supporting actor in “American Beauty,” “October Sky,” “The Bourne Identity” and “Sea Biscuit” and many more.

Bridges and Cooper will discuss their long acting careers in “The Conversation,” an hour-long event on Saturday afternoon in the 250-seat American Legion Theatre. With a grant from First Federal and Centrum, the Festival purchased soundproofing last year and a gigantic screen to convert the Legion’s auditorium into a theatre, transforming it into the Festival’s largest theatre. Cooper’s wife, Marianne Leone Cooper, an author and actress will also appear, Sunday, Sept. 27 as the Festival’s “Formative Film guest author.

An actress in HBO’s series “The Sopranos,” Marianne has most recently finished a David O. Russell film with Robert DeNiro and Jennifer Lawrence. Marianne has chosen to screen “My Left Foot,” about a brilliant man (starring Academy Award winner Daniel Day Lewis) who is challenged by cerebral palsy.

Marianne and Chris are the parents of Jesse Cooper, a bright young poet who was also severely affected by cerebral palsy. Marianne’s acclaimed, transformative memoir, “Jesse: A Mother’s Story” speaks to all parents who try to do the best for their children. Following the film is a book signing, hosted by The Writers’ Workshoppe.

Director and Mogul level passes include concierge service that guarantees seating at all films. To purchase passes online, HERE or call PTFF at 360-379-1333 with your credit card number (all cards accepted) The festival accepts checks delivered in person or by mail to their office at 211 Taylor Street, Ste. 401-A, Port Townsend, WA 98368.

The Festival’s program of curated, independent, narrative and documentary films will posted on PTTFF’s website in early August.

Happy summer,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

July 2, 2015

First Tuesday Salon, Rosebud Cinema, July 7, 7:30, p.m., Me & Earl & the Dying Girl Sudden Cinema outdoors, three times this summer at the Pour House! Belle & Sebastian, a gift from Film Movement

“…at its core, Me and Earl and the Dying Girl is about growing out of the adolescent self-absorption that turns every narrative into one with "Me" at the beginning. The climactic emotional moment comes as Greg becomes aware of how little he has truly known Rachel despite the amount of time he has been spending with her, and that scene becomes an encapsulation of how much Greg has needed to grow up. So maybe you can't tell a story about a narcissistic white boy widening his lens without showing a lot of that narcissism first—and it ain't always pretty to watch. But Me and Earl is far from a celebration of missing out on the depth and complexity of the people around you. It's a reminder that a life spent skimming the surface of those people is an opportunity missed. Scott Renshaw, Salt Lake City Weekly Watch the trailer HERE.

Join us for a conversation about “coming of age stories,” and hear the latest news from PTFF. And believe me, we have amazing news to tell you!

Sudden Cinema outdoors at the Pourhouse

July 15 - A Fish Called Wanda Trailer: HERE

July 29 - Stand By Me Trailer: HERE.

August 12 - When Harry Met Sally Trailer: HERE

On August 26, we top off Sudden Cinema at the Fort Worden Mule Barn. Family fare to be announced. Stay tuned for that title and lots of great festival news!

Belle & Sebastian

One of the PTFF audience favorites from 2013, Belle & Sebastian has been released for DVD purchase by Film Movement. In celebration, they have given one copy to PTFF as a donor thanks. Come in to our office and enter your name in a drawing for this wonderful French story of friendship and courage. Based on the acclaimed children's novel by Cécile Aubry, Belle & Sebastian follows the courageous adventures of a young boy and his giant sheepdog amidst the stunning backdrop of the snow-covered Alps. For more about other great titles from Film Movement, visit their website: HERE.

Happy summer,

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978 www.ptfilmfest.com

June 10, 2015

Yes! Our Guest is… Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure with R2AK Continues PTFF Favorite from 2014 Next Goal Wins Returns to The Rose Theatre Saturday June 20th 11a.m. The 2015 Port Townsend Film Festival welcomes “special guest” Beau Bridges. Beau is an award-winning character actor, who has appeared in over 50 features, including “The Other Side of the Mountain,” “Max Payne” and “The Descendants”. He co-starred with his brother Jeff in “The Fabulous Baker Boys”, for which Beau received the Best Supporting Actor Award from the National Society of Film Critics. Beau Bridges will be in Port Townsend during this year’s festival, which runs from September 25-27.

The winner of the “Guess the Guest” contest is Wendy Chapman from Port Townsend.

In television, Bridges won three Emmys and two Golden Globes for “Without Warning: The James Brady Story,” “The Positively True Adventures of the Alleged Texas Cheerleader-Murdering Mom” and “The Second Civil War.T” In the last couple of years, he was seen in the CBS series “The Millers” and is about to start his third season of Showtime’s “Masters of Sex,” for which he received an Emmy nomination last year. Bridges is an active environmentalist, inspired by his father Lloyd. He currently serves on the board of Wishtoyo, an organization that works to protect the California coastline and sacred Chumash Indian sites.

Curious about the clues for the “Guess the Guest?” Our puzzle master, Robert Force, works with our PTFF festival program editor, Sana Gomes to weave a web of details into clues that are not easily answered with a Google search.

Clue#1: Refers to Sea Hunt, starring his father Lloyd Bridges, where he also appeared (While hunting for clues/ Sherman’s March to the sea). The second half references “Gone with the Wind” character Ashley Wilkes, who fathered a son named Beau. Our Special Guest was nicknamed after him (Where ashes… ).

Clue #2: Describes a bridge over land or water, spanning the air. “Saint Louis is the king” references a widely taught book by Thornton Wilder, “The Bridge of San Luis Rey.” The second half references the film “The Fabulous Baker Boys” in which Beau acts alongside his brother Jeff and Michelle Pfeiffer. T.S. Eliot’s poem, “The Hollow Men” describes the Baker Boys (a life not ending in a bang but rather in a whimper). A double meaning is Elliott Bay, the body of water fronting Seattle where the story takes place.

Clue #3: Beau’s real name is Lloyd, like his father’s. They both have a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He and his wife, Wendy, recently sold their Hidden Hills home where his two youngest children, Emily and Ezekiel, grew up. The first letter of each line spells: Beau Bridges.

There were over 200 guesses before Wendy Chapman put the pieces of the puzzle together with Clue #1 & #2.

PTFF Hosts Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure with R2AK

After presenting Team Excellent Adventure with PTFF hats and copper PTFF key chains, Bill left PT Harbor at 5:30am on June 4th and officially began this adventure. Bill and Ted finished 25 out of 40 boats who made it all the way to Victoria BC.

To follow the progress of this event, check out THIS or read this wonderful piece from the New York Times HERE. We have some great surprises in store for the summer- Sudden Cinema events in new secret locations, more guest film professionals, great new PTFF merchandise to inspire your love for fashion and film- oh boy!!

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978

June 3, 2015

Guess the Guest Contest Clue #3! PTFF Hosts Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure with R2AK Textile Artists’ Trunk Show, June 6, Benefits PTFF Here is lucky winner, Dorothy Westlund, with actress Karen Allen, our Special Guest in 2013. This year, it could be YOU having your photograph taken with a beloved film professional. Be you the first to sleuth through our clues and identify our guest for 2015. Here’s our third, and last clue. We announce the winner and our special guest on June. 10.

Clue #3: Boldly done, his father said Everyone now knows your fame Acting I bequeathed to you Unto you I gave my name But higher than my fame you rose Rightly so, the son’s ascent In favor you have won your own Dazzling star in firm cement Gone now are the Hidden Hills where Em and Zeke no longer play Sweet Wendy kisses me goodnight And I return them every day We are showing some mercy here–very easy clue this week, eh? Send your guess to [email protected], mail or stop by our office, 211 Taylor Street, Ste 401A, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Please include your name, mailing address, daytime phone and e-mail.

PTFF Hosts Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure with R2AK

Jake Beattie, Northwest Maritime Center Executive Director. has just the right attitude toward life–serve your community and have a great time doing it. PTFF could not resist the chance to host an R2AK team with a film name “Bill & Ted’s Excellent Adventure.” (HERE)

Come down to Pope Marine Park, Wed., June 3 at 5 p.m. for the Pre-Race Rukkus. Join us in welcoming “Team Excellent Adventure,” with Captain Bill Gifford and his mighty crew, Ted Sweeney. They depart on Thursday at 5 a.m. to row and sail in the race to Ketchikan, Alaska. Learn more HERE.

Whidbey Textile Artists’ Trunk Show, Sat., June 6, 2-7 p.m., Benefits PTFF

Join textile artists Peggy Juve http://pjuvedesign.com, Cheryl Kamera and Meredith Macleod for a spectacular trunk show of unique, high- style women’s wearable art. A portion of each sale will benefits PTFF, and you will look spectacular! See the following ad for details!

What is a trunk show, you might ask? It is a traveling collection of designer clothing or jewelry, displayed in a unique location. What better way to introduce you to new work and new friends? Another great collaboration is unfolding for PTFF and a group of talented artists from Whidbey Island. Come see their Spring/Summer Collections! Join textile artists Peggy Juve (HERE), Cheryl Kamera (HERE) and Meredith Macleod (HERE) for a spectacular trunk show of unique, high-style women’s wearable art. A portion of each sale will benefit PTFF, and you will look spectacular!

We have some great surprises in store for the summer- Sudden Cinema events in new secret locations, more guest film professionals, great new PTFF merchandise to inspire your love for fashion and film- oh boy!!

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978

May 27, 2015

Guess the Guest Contest Clue #2 First Tuesday Salon, June 2, Far From the Madding Crowd Trunk Show, June 6, Benefits PTFF

Why was there a photo of a can of sardines on our home page?

Because when we start working to secure our Special Guest for September’s PT Film Festival, we cannot mention the name. It’s a secret until the deal is made. Then we have a contest with clues for you to Guess the Guest. To discuss these negotiations in our office without being overheard, we began referring to him/her as “The Sardine.” When the guest has accepted our invitation, we say “The Sardine is in the can!” Now you have an inside joke from PTFF. When Special Guest (Sardine) Bruce Dern left Port Townsend following our festival in 2012, he traveled to Nebraska to begin filming what was to be the performance of his career. When nominated for an Academy Award for his work in Nebraska, PTFF was cheering–especially our “Guess the Guest” winners, Denise Maguire and Charlene Freeman, pictured here with Bruce.

This year, it could be YOU having your photograph taken with a beloved film professional, if you are the first to unravel our truly difficult clues to the identity of our guest for 2015. Thus far, no one has guessed correctly. Here is our second clue.

Now riddle this, a Sphinx-like clue: It stands alone but touches too Water, earth and air abide Saint Louis is the king described Side by side the songs are played Sighs Eliot, “Men hollow fade" The story’s old and still so true Don’t let her come 'tween me and you

Send your guess to [email protected], mail or stop by in the Baker Block Building, 211 Taylor Street, Ste 401A, Port Townsend, WA 98368. Please include your name, mailing address, daytime phone and e-mail.

First Tuesday Salon, Starlight Room, June 2, 7:30 p.m. Far From the Madding Crowd (advance tickets recommended) Far from the Madding Crowd’s cinematography, by Charlotte Bruus Christensen, captures a number of breathtaking shots of the British countryside; Thomas Vinterberg invests set design with care, drawing on his "simple is best" dogma; the period details are without peer, resulting in a "you are there" sense. And actress Carrie Mulligan is pretty fantastic, too!

Our First Tuesday conversation following will be about the challenges of period costuming. We hope to attract some local costume experts who can inform our conversation.

Whidbey Textile Artist’s Trunk Show, June 6, Benefits PTFF

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978

May 27, 2015

Guess the Guest Contest Begins! Special Screening, one night only, The Thin Blue Line, with Rocky Friedman & Ward Serrill, Starlight Room, Wed., May 20, 7:30 p.m.

Yes, it is that time of year again! The Port Townsend Film Festival's 16th Annual “Guess the Guest” contest begins today. One of three clues will be printed in the Leader and PDN and on our website. Be the first to identify this year's Special Guest and win a PTFF tee-shirt, hat and a photo op with the Special Guest. Past guests have included John Sayles, Karen Allen, Bruce Dern, Tony Curtis, Eva Marie Saint and Cloris Leachman. Three clues will be released, one each week, in print, and on the PTFF website. The second clue will be released May 27, the third on June 3. The Special Guest, and the winner, will be announced June 10.

This tradition began 16 years ago when Google was not a verb, so our clues need to be tough!

Clue #1:

While hunting clues I'm sure you'll see Sherman's March Did far portend Where ashes from Such spectral fire Birthed that which You now desire.

Send your guess to [email protected], or mail your guess (or stop by in person) at the PTFF office, 211 Taylor St, Suite 401A, Port Townsend, WA, 98368. Please include your name, mailing address, daytime phone and email address.

Special Screening: Starlight Room Wed., May 20, 7:30 p.m. The Thin Blue Line with Rocky Friedman & Ward Serrill, local director and filmmaker, discussing afterwards There might be tickets available for this special screening: HERE.

Erroll Morris directed this classic documentary that set the standard for modern journalistic film. The public outcry following the release of The Thin Blue Line freed a man from prison. Errol Morris’ dedication to discovering the truth behind the prosecution of Randall Adams led to the reopening of his trial for murder.

Join filmmaker Ward Serrill and film scholar Rocky Friedman in a conversation following the film.

Next Wednesday we will give you Clue #2 for Guess the Guest, so stay tuned!

Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A Port Townsend, WA 98368 360-379-1333/ Cell 360-774-1978

May 20, 2015

Join us for Carl Nomura Celebration May 2nd 5pm First Tuesday Salon, May 5th While We’re Young @The Rose Theatre 7pm Designer Trunk Show Benefits PTFF June 6th The Big Screen, Big Sound, Buttered Popcorn! Anyone who has ever had the pleasure of sitting across the table from Carl Nomura knows that he is a master storyteller. The gift is that he has a truly remarkable story to tell. Thanks to the energetic support of Barbara Berthiaume, Art Kobiashi and friends from across the nation, PTFF assisted in capturing Carl’s unique American journey. Ellen Frick, filmmaker who brought us “Patriot Guard Riders” (PTFF 2011) and “A Healing Art” (PTFF 2013), combined archival photographs with interview footage to share Carl’s inspired life lessons.

See the film Saturday, May 2, during Port Townsend’s Art Walk, in our office at 211 Taylor St., Suite 401. Take the elevator! “Sleeping on Potatoes” will screen every 30 minutes, from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. Meet Carl and Ellen. Copies of the film will be for sale. And it is not too late to contribute to the post-production expenses! First Tuesday Salon, May 5th While We’re Young ~ Rose Theatre, 7 p.m.

Clearly not enough laughter these days, so let’s gather for First Tuesday Salon with Ben Stiller, Adam Driver & Naomi Watts to observe what is so funny about peer pressure and our continued belief that someone else is much cooler than we are. Craig Mathieson writes in the Sydney Morning Herald, “The undercurrents in While We're Young are subtly effective, whether it's the shortcuts Jamie takes – to Josh's dislike – as a filmmaker, with Driver's exclamation point-shaped face making his insincerity disarming, or the way you come to realise Darby's daffy affirmation is also a self-defence mechanism. The intertwining of these deftly sketched characters is impressive. Josh wants Jamie's life, Jamie wants Josh's status. Each generation suspects the next, but in their division Baumbach has made his most pleasing and accessible film yet.