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p l a y b o u l d e r international 08 FI l M F e s t I va l sralang dralas feb 14 -17 peace pass!on

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celebrating the bold spirit of independent film biff1.com order biff tickets at 303.786.7030 or www.bouldertheater.com www.biff1.com | 1

To the legions of highly discerning individuals who actually read the Robin Beeck, Executive Director welcome letters in film festival programs, welcome! Boulder International Film Festival Welcome to an exhibition of the best works of the greatest film artists of their genres. Welcome to the exciting and unpredictable world beyond mass entertainment, where the advent of high-quality, low-cost equipment has created an explosion of creativity and innovation in film. Welcome to a darkened theater where you’ll be drawn into the screen by the world’s storytelling masters—quixotic, thrilling, funny, sad, shocking stories told with respect and affection for their audiences, the hallmark of all great artists. Welcome to the two-million-person audience of film festivals worldwide, where the unique ability to meet and interact with many of the artists themselves has made film festivals into trend-makers for one of the largest and most influential industries on earth. Having trouble deciding what films to see? Then join the growing crowd of Boulder film buffs who buy an all-access Festival pass. Get treated like a VIP, walk to the head of the lines, go to all the free-food-and-drink parties, meet filmmakers and new friends you can talk with about the films. But mostly, see all the great films you want to see. It’s like a first-class vacation without leaving the city. We look forward to greeting you personally throughout the Boulder International Film Festival, Feb 14-17, 2008. See you at the movies!

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BMOCA Boulder High School Boulder Public Library Boulder Theater Hotel Boulderado Redfish Brewhouse St Julien Hotel 1750 13th St 1604 Arapahoe Ave 1000 Canyon Blvd 2032 14th St 2115 13th St 2027 13th St 900 Walnut St

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b e n e fa c t o r l e v e l pat r o n l e v e l b i f f b u f f l e v e l J a r e d P o l i s K at h y & D a n B e e c k S u e a n d P a u l R a a b D o ry a n d K at e H a g a n *

C a r o ly n S c h u h a m M a r j o r i e G o l d m a n B e ry l e R a n d a l l C h u c k H u n k e r Patti Bruck and Bill Spenc e r P r i a H a r m o n TK Smith and Connie Holden* M a ry a n d L u k e J o h n s t o n M a r s h a a n d J a c k W a l k e r * C i n d y L i n d s ay S o n j a a n d K e n T u i t e l e M a ry M u l ry *

individuals R i c k W e i s m a n R e n e M o r g a n Nicky Wolman and David Fulker K i t t y N i c h o l a s o n * S a n d y Y o u n g h a n s R i c h a r d P o l k D i a n e R o s e n t h a l B i l l V i e l e h r * * f o u n d i n g s p o n s o r s  | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com FREE STUFF

special event a tickets filmmakers’ panel FILM PROGRAM TICKETS STUDENTs all films at boulder high school. REGULAR ADMISSION $10 free for students age 13+ with valid id STUDENTS / SENIORS WITH VALID I.D. $ 8 senior Citizens programs 21 and 30, free for seniors over 65 with valid id Please note: VIP PRIORITY PASS $295 $ This program is subject to change. Films are not rated and may include OPENING NIGHT GALA & film program 1 50 profanity, nudity and mature subject matter. Many of the scenes in these $ films are performed by trained professional actors and should not be FILMMAKERS’ RECEPTION special event c 12/15door $ attempted at home. CLOSING NIGHT AWARDS & FILM program 31 25 how to purchase tix

Please note the program numbers of your chosen films and events before you get online or call for tickets – you will need these to complete your order. > online: > phone: > in person: www.biff1.com 303.786.7030 Boulder Theater Box Office www.bouldertheater.com Or at the door 30’ before start time Purchase in advance Purchase day of show picking up your tickets Advance tickets for all BIFF programs, Tickets can be purchased from the Boulder Boulder Theater: For programs being held workshops and events must be purchased Theater online and over the phone until 90 at the Boulder Theater, advance purchase through the Boulder Theater Box Office minutes before the program begins. Tickets tickets are available for pickup anytime that online, over the phone or in person. may also be purchased the day of the event the Boulder Theater box office is open. at the program venue 30 minutes before Other Venues: If your program or event is at start time. another venue, advance purchase tickets will be available for pickup at the Boulder Theater anytime up to ONE HOUR before box office the program begins. For pickup less than an BOULDER THEATER hour before your program begins, tickets will box 2032 14th Street Boulder, Colorado 80302 be available for pickup at the venue in which the program is being held. festival hours office 3:00pm - 9:00pm Thursday, Feb. 14 9:30am - 10:30pm regular hours Friday, Feb. 15 9:30am - 10:30pm Monday - Friday: 3:00pm - 7:00pm Saturday, Feb. 16 9:30am - 10:30pm Saturday: 12:00pm - 5:00pm Sunday, Feb. 17 be a VIP film lovers unite THE BIFF VIP PRIORITY PASS Spend Valentine’s night at the For the ultimate film lover who wants a guaranteed seat to all film programs and all events, and wants to walk right past the line. Provides access to all romantic and historic Hotel screenings, panels, workshops and public parties with guaranteed VIP Boulderado with an priority seating. exclusive Valentine This pass includes: An invitation to the Opening Night Gala, the BIFF Filmmakers’ Reception, package that includes the Closing Night Film and Awards Celebration, as well as priority registra- 2 tickets to the tion and access to all workshops and panels. BIFF Opening Night Gala. A limited number of VIP Passes are available, so reserve yours early. Please Note: Passes are non-transferable. Passholders must arrive for programs Starting at $199. at least 15 minutes prior to the start of the film to guarantee priority seating. ^photo: fashionistaphoto.com  | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com special event aB Filmmakers’ Panel

Saturday, 2:30-4:00pm, Boulder Public Library panel Free to the public – No ticket required

Our annual free-for-all brings together a table’s worth of visiting filmmakers from around the world for a wide-ranging discussion. This year our moderator will be none other than Chris Gore, an author, columnist, television host and filmmaker who has built a solid reputation as the brutally honest founder of the legendary Film Threat online magazine. He is the author of four books on film, including The Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide, considered a bible for fans and film- makers touring the festival circuit. Gore began his independent filmmaking career with the cult short Red starring tough guy Lawrence Tier- ney from Reservoir Dogs. He also co-wrote and pro- duced the feature comedy that toured the festival circuit, My Big Fat Independent Movie. In addition, Gore appears on television weekly as the film expert on G4 TV’s Attack of the Show. He was named one of the 25 Most Influential People in Independent Film by Film Festival Today magazine.

BIFF VIp filmmakerlounge hosted by Redfish Brewhouse

Just one block west from the front door of the Boulder Theater Come discuss “everything film” over a delicious Redfish-brewed beer, a glass of wine or an organic vodka drink from Vodka 14. Live music and great food! Happy Hour drink prices for Passholders 4pm to close

sponsored spirits bargain bevvies from generous sponsors... nudge, nudge. deals are good with your BIFF ticket stub or pass. Corner Bar T-Zero at St Julien at the Boulderado $2 off any drink $2 draft of your choice beer of the day (does not include happy hour prices) $4 happy hour wines offered all day/night

^photos: photomalone.com  | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com program 1 Colorado Film Society Valentine’s Thursday, February 14, 6:00pm Boulder Theater Opening Night Gala $50 / Free for VIP Passholders Food by The Cheesecake Factory & Film Music by the Hazel Miller Jazz Trio Step out onto the red carpet this Valentine’s Day. Plan a romantic date with your special sweetheart, or meet new friends on this night of glamour. Celebrate independent film at BIFF’s Opening Night Gala and enjoy a red hot evening with red hot jazz by the incomparable Hazel Miller Jazz Trio, sensuous foods from the Cheesecake Factory, a chocolate fountain, paparazzi, filmmakers galore, and a chance to break out your fabulous gown or tux for a night on the town. Complimentary roses at the door from Sturtz & Copeland.

parties Black-tie optional. The evening’s big event is an exclusive pre-release screening of Then She Found Me, ’s long-awaited directorial debut, which stars Ms. Hunt, , Colin Firth and . See full synopsis on page 10. The opening night gala is a fundraiser for the nonprofit Colorado Film Society and The Boulder International Film Festival.

special event c Filmmakers’ Reception Saturday, February 16, 6:00-9:00pm Gourmet hors d’oeuvres by Organic Orbit and Laudisio Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art Wine and soft drinks by Liquor Mart, beer by Moosehead (BMOCA), 1750 13th Street Brewing Company, martinis by Vodka 14 $12 /$15 door Free for VIP Passholders Music by Ancestral Voices Tickets available at Boulder Theater or at the door with cash or check. Sponsored in part by Roche Colorado

Meet the provocative artists behind the films at BIFF’s filmmakers’ reception. The party takes place at the Boulder Museum of Contemporary Art (BMOCA), a dynamic venue dedicated to the presentation of significant art of our time. Rub elbows with filmmakers while you enjoy delicious appetizers made by our friends at Organic Orbit and Laudisio, sip bevvies, including delightful martinis from the folks at Vodka 14, and take in the ambient trance/fusion sounds of Ancestral Voices.

program 31 Closing Night Awards and Film Sunday, February 17, 6:00pm Doors open at 6:00pm Boulder Theater The Kailin Yong Trio 6:00-7:30pm $25 / Free for VIP Passholders Awards Ceremony 7:30pm Film at 8:00pm Food by The Boulder Chophouse & Tavern Music by The Kailin Yong Trio Celebrate the bold spirit of independent film The evening’s big event is an exclusive as we honor the best of the Festival at the pre-release screening of Stranded: I’ve Come Closing Night Awards Ceremony, with gener- From a Plane That Crashed on the Mountains, ous prizes donated by Kodak. Internationally which comes to BIFF straight from Sundance. renowned violinist Kailin Yong, “Fiddler for Survivors of the famous Andes plane crash tell Peace,” flanked by the six-string genius of in their own words the harrowing story of one Grant Gordy and the bass wizardry of Ian of the greatest of all tales of human survival. Hutchison, takes you on a musical journey through South America. See full synopsis on page 28.

 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com valentine’s opening night gala & film february 14th | formal attire, black-tie optional Doors open 6:00pm Appetizers & cocktails 6:00-8:00pm Music by The Hazel Miller Jazz Trio 6:00-8:00pm Food by The Cheesecake Factory Film 8:00pm

PROGRAM 1 Thursday, 6:00pm, Boulder Theater Then She Found Me USA, feature film, 2008, 100 min. Special pre-release screening from ThinkFilm “A smart, subtle and seriously funny dramedy bound to find favor with sophisticated audiences...” Variety In her long-awaited directorial debut, Helen Hunt plays April Epner, a New York schoolteacher in full mid-life crisis and desperate to have a baby. In quick succession, her lovable but boy- ishly immature husband of a few months, Ben (Matthew Broderick), dumps her, her adop- tive mother dies, and her biological mother, Bernice (Bette Midler), a brassy, self-absorbed talk-show host, body-slams her way into April’s life and tries to establish a mother-daughter relationship using the same aggressive interview techniques that made her talk show successful. April finds solace in the arms of sweet-natured Frank (Colin Firth), the father of one of her students, but finds that many of the ever-changing mysteries of life can never really be solved. A labor of love by the deliberately deglamorized Hunt, this sweet film of vertiginous mood swings remains grounded with affectionate observations of human reality. This film recently opened at the Palm Springs International Film Festival and won the Audience Award for Best Feature. passion Directed by: Helen Hunt complimentary Written by: Helen Hunt, Vic Levin and Alice Arlen from an original novel by roses Starring: Academy Award winner Helen Hunt, Academy Award nominee Bette Midler, courtesy of Colin Firth, Matthew Broderick and Ben Shankman Rating: “R” by the MPAA for language, and some sexual content

NO RECORDING This screening will be monitored for unauthorized recording. By attending, you agree not to bring any recording device into the theatre and you consent to physical search of your belongings and person for recording devices. If you attempt to enter with a recording device, you will be denied admission. If you attempt to use a recording device, you consent to your immediate removal from the theatre and forfeiture of the device. Unauthorized recording will be reported to law enforcement and may subject you to criminal and civil liability.

 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 2 Friday, 10:00am, Boulder Theater King Lines USA/Colorado, feature documentary, 2007, 60 min. Chris Sharma, 25, is hailed as the world’s best rock climber, a pioneer who has mastered some of the most spectacular and difficult routes in the history of the sport. (He also falls a lot!) On a never-ending quest to PROGRAM 3 PROGRAM 4 find the world’s “biggest, most badass line,” Friday, 12:00pm, Boulder Theater Friday, 2:00pm, Boulder Theater Sharma moves with the agility and grace of Son of Man Beyond the Call a ballet dancer as he rapidly makes his way South Africa, feature film, 2006, 86 min. USA/, feature documentary, 2007, 82 up the world’s most outrageously difficult min. “One of the most extraordinary and power- and beautiful rock climbing formations. Peter ful films at Sundance, this is the story This film was the big hit of the Tribeca Film Mortimer’s extraordinary gift for storytelling of Jesus, told in episodes from the New Festival and comes from the filmmakers makes Sharma’s humility come through—the Testament, but set in present-day Africa” behind the Academy Award-nominated doc- way he battles anxiety before a difficult says Roger Ebert. “The film sends an umentary Ghengis Blues. Filmmaker Adrian climb, the way he backs down from a problem unmistakable message: if Jesus were alive Belic follows ex-Army medical corpsman pitch because he’s too scared, his infallible today, he would be singled out as a danger- Artis and his two partners—heart special- self-deprecating humor. These are the little ous political leader, just as he was the first ist Jim Laws and organizational whiz Walt touches that make a great film, one that you time around.” This story of Jesus is told as Ratterman—as they deliver humanitarian hate to see end. a gritty African fable with joyous, full- aid directly into the hands of civilians and Directed by Peter Mortimer throated South African music in beautiful doctors in places that no other relief agency Peter Mortimer in person would dare to go. After a few minutes of landscapes strewn with impoverished shan- tytowns. Its adaptation to modern South salty banter from these guys, you realize preceded by African customs creates scenes that are that Mothers Teresa they ain’t. “We’re not Running Down the Man there to change anybody’s politics, we’re USA, short documentary, 2006, 18 min. unforgettable. Refreshingly free of doctrinal and fundamentalist bigotry, this film will be not in the God business and we pay our When was the last time you saw a grown man loved by Christian and non-Christian alike own way,” they explain. “We do what we sprinting down an empty beach in Mexico, for its universal message of innocence, can, when we can, because we can.” The waving a 9-foot fly rod, while in hot pursuit forgiveness, tolerance and joy. film is a journey into the heart of human- of a fish resembling Elizabeth Hurley? Join us ity and darkness, all the while serving up Directed by Mark Dornford-May incredible good cheer, great stories and as we explore the arcane pursuit of fly-fishing Colorado Premiere for Rooster fish from the beaches of Baja Sur, absolutely no B.S. to anyone (well, except Mexico, and the zealotry and commitment that Q&a maybe the black-marketers). it takes to successfully angle to these rare Directed by Adrian Belic creatures. “Brief discussion to follow Boulder Premiere Adrian Belic and Dr. Jim Laws of Directed by Travis Rummel and Ben Knight with Dr. Marie Ego, Sisters Knightsbridge International in person Boulder Premiere of Loretto, and other Biblical scholars. Co-presented with the CU Department of Travis Rummel and Ben Knight in person ” Communication and faculty member aftershow Dr. Jane Elvins

 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com p a s s i o n pPROGRAM e a c 6 e Friday, 6:15pm, Boulder Theater PROGRAM 5 Friday, 4:15pm, Boulder Theater American Black Banjo Player USA, short documentary, 2008, 8 min. Dalai Lama Renaissance USA, feature documentary, 2007, 80 min. A short film documenting the recording session of African-American blues- men playing banjo, including Guy Davis, Corey Harris, Alvin Youngblood Hart, Fresh from sold-out screenings in film festivals Keb Mo, Don Vappie and Otis Taylor. Filmed during the recording of the album around the world, this beautiful film tells the light- “Recapturing the Banjo” produced by Otis Taylor, which highlights that the hearted story about what happened when the Dalai banjo came from Africa. Lama of Tibet invited 40 of the West’s leading, most Directed and produced by Otis Taylor innovative thinkers in their respective fields to his Edited by Cassie Taylor residence in the mountains of Northern India to Otis Taylor and Cassie Taylor in person discuss the world’s problems and how we can solve them. What transpired was unexpected, power- ful, funny and nearly disastrous, all captured by an aftershow 18-person, 5-camera film crew. For these Western A short musical set by Otis and “synthesis” participants, it began with a chaotic Cassie Taylor follows the film. and grueling journey through the spirited culture and colorful land of India, to Dharamsala at the foothills of War Dance the Himalayas, where the Dalai Lama leads the exiled Uganda/USA, feature documentary, 2007, 105 min. Tibetan people. Their immersion into the clambering, Each child has a story to tell. Rose, 13, witnessed the brutality of her crowded yet intimately friendly sights, smells and parents’ murder. Dominic, 14, is an escaped child soldier haunted by the sounds of the culture caused them to reflect on the two people he was forced to kill. Nancy, 14, struggles to keep her three baby different values of community, home, family, money, siblings alive, all in the endless squalor of the Potongo Refugee camp in war- material possessions and the idea that wealth is not torn Uganda. But this year, they have something magical to look forward to. about material wealth, it is truly about The Patongo Primary School has qualified to compete in the National Music happiness and the love of people. Competition in Kampala. Over 20,000 schools will compete but only a hand- Directed by Khashyar Darvich ful of teams will win awards, and expectations are low for Patongo. Schools Boulder Premiere in refugee camps don’t win awards. Nominated for the Khashyar Darvich in person Best Documentary 2008.

Directed by Andrea Nix and Sean Fine Q&a

Q&a Boulder Premiere Ugandan activist Marcellina Director Khashyar Darvich, “Otii and her family, along with “ shown here with film narrator other Ugandan members of Harrison Ford, joins us for a Team Africa, will join us in Person short discussion after the film for this Q & A.

 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 7 PROGRAM 8 PROGRAM 9 Friday, 9:30pm, Boulder Theater Friday, 4:00pm, Boulder Public Friday, 6:00pm, Boulder Public Library The Beckoning Silence Library Les Paul: Chasing Sound UK, feature documentary, 2007, 73 min. Last Hat in Town USA, feature documentary, 2007, 86 min. USA/Colorado, feature documentary, A heart-stopping film by mountain- 2007, 76 min. He is the Godfather of the electric guitar, climbing legend Joe Simpson, best the inventor of multi-track recording and known for Touching the Void in which This extraordinary film chronicles overdubbing, and the architect of Rock ‘n’ he crawls five miles back to camp the transformation of the Rocky Roll. His virtuosic playing, and the mythical with a shattered leg after a horrifying Mountains from wide-open ranch Gibson electric guitar that bears his name, thousand-foot-fall into a crevasse. This land to a patchwork of natural inspired legends of the rock ‘n’ roll revolu- time Simpson recreates, on location gas drilling sites. Three unique tion. Take a ride with this larger-than-life on the Eiger, the cold, terror and horror men are struggling to find new legend as he plays his standing Monday of Toni Kurtz, a brilliant young moun- ways to live in this changing land- night gig at the Iridium Jazz Club in New taineer who, with three other climbers, scape. We get to know and care York City and tells his own rags-to-riches attempted the first climb of the North about each of these characters, story, with special appearances or vintage Face of the Eiger in 1927. One by one, and, through their eyes, we begin duets with Steve Miller, Paul McCartney, Kurtz’s partners were killed, leaving to comprehend the vast social Keith Richards, Jimmy Paige, Bonnie Raitt, him alone, dangling at the end of a and environmental impacts to The Beatles, Jimi Hendrix, The Who, The rope, hands frozen, fighting for his Colorado of the shift from ranch- Rolling Stones and Tony Bennett. This is life, uncannily mirroring the plight of ing to drilling, and we see first one of the most important musical docu- Simpson himself in the Andes a half- hand the loss of a way of life. mentaries of our time, and it shows that a century later. Simpson thought of Kurtz Directed by Zachary Fink lifetime of rock ‘n’ roll doesn’t necessar- often during his own long, freezing night Boulder Premiere ily mean you’ll end up looking like Keith Zachary Fink in person at the end of a climbing rope. It’s an Richards. unbelievable tale by one of the great Directed by John Paulson storytellers of our day. John Paulson in person Directed by Louise Osmond Colorado Premiere

speInternationalcial Film Series/BIFF sateFridayllite and scSaturdayreen ing presented by the international film series at CU Friday & Saturday, 7:00pm and 9:45pm, Muenzinger Auditorium on the CU campus (for location, please see: Tickets on sale at the door only internationalfilmseries.com/maps.shtml) Free for VIP Passholders Southland Tales Germany/USA/France, 2006, feature film, 160 min. Director Richard Kelly is known best for his indie cult classic Donnie Darko. When this film first hit theaters, viewers described it as “an acquired taste.” Later, it turned into a cult sensation that resonates today with repeat screenings. In his latest film, Southland Tales, Kelly returns to his roots of creating another messy and confronta- tional black comedy, but this time the political and dystopian tropes have really hit a nerve. Alternately described as “brilliant” or “flailing,”Southland Tales still made it on some “top ten films of the year” lists and, we suspect, will ultimately become another cult gem. Special thanks to producer (and CU alum) Judd Payne for personally bringing the print to the International Film Series. Directed by Richard Kelly Boulder Premiere

10 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 10 Saturday, 10:00am, Boulder Theater 20 Seconds of Joy Germany, feature documentary, 2007, 60 min. “I don’t want to die, I want to live. I am pretty good at running away and this is my escape!” This amazing film follows five years of the career of the world’s greatest woman BASE-jumper, Karina Hollekim, as she performs her trademark aerial somersaults and heart-stopping free-fall swoops that barely miss the jagged faces of the highest vertical cliffs on earth. Karina’s movie-star smile conceals a melancholic personal life, and one begins to understand a young woman who is addicted to adrenaline and continually takes greater risks to get her “20 seconds of joy,” until her career suddenly and inevitably stops...just as her helmet-cam did on her very last jump. Winner of the People’s Choice Award at the Banff Mountain Film Festival 2007. Directed by Jens Hoffman Colorado Premiere preceded by Two Swimmers UK, short documentary, 2006, 23 min. Proving that documentaries are one of the most powerful media for telling a story, this film follows a young man, Tim Denyer, who, with the help of his coach, Mark Rickhuss, had overcome a debili- tating back injury to not only walk again but to also accept one of the world’s most difficult athletic challenges, swimming the English Channel. Showing the intense bond between coach and athlete, and the extreme dedication necessary to achieve a goal, Two Swimmers shows what happened that day of Tim’s Channel attempt and the shocking events that followed. Directed by Steven Sander Colorado Premiere Steven Sander in person

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^ photo: samite.com

11 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 11 Short Films 1 Saturday, 12:00pm, Boulder Theater

The Death of Shula No Room for Gerold Aria Next Door Israel, short student film, 2007, 25 min. Germany, short animated film, 2006, 5 min. USA/Colorado, short film, 2007, 7 min. “25 minutes. That’s all it takes for one of After 10 long years in the apartment, Gerold Aria Next Door won Best Film at The Shoot the world’s next great filmmakers to an- the crocodile is being thrown out. Is there Out 24 Hour Filmmaking Festival. Now in nounce himself.” Cannes Film Festival a conspiracy against him? Does newcomer its fifth year, the Shoot Out Boulder is a An old man, Yossi, is mystified by the failure Ellen the wildebeest have something to do pioneering film festival that challenges film- of his very busy family to show grief for with it? One thing is for sure—the wild makers to trust their courage, imagination their old sick dog, Shula, which he must days are now just a distant memory. Voted and determination to make a 7-minute film put to sleep and bury by himself. Is he wit- Best Performance by an Animated Charac- in just 24 hours. The Shoot Out will return nessing his own future? In this stunningly ter at the Platform Animation Festival. to Boulder on October 10-12, 2008. beautiful film, the director and his family Directed by Daniel Nocke Directed by Brad Stabio members play themselves in a story based Colorado Premiere Brad Stabio in person on reality. Directed by Asaf Korman The Replacement Child USA, short student film, 2007, 25 min. Boulder Premiere After spending a year in a juvenile center Shut-Eye Hotel USA, short animated film, 2007, 7 min. for beating up his stepfather, Todd Turnbull Coco-Nuts ( Kokos ) Shut-Eye Hotel is a film-noir murder mystery Norway, short film, 2006, 10 min. returns to his backwoods hometown a re- pentant, deeply religious boy. When he finds that takes place in a sleazy hotel. As cops A wildly original and completely fresh mix his best friend, Michael, withering away investigate the gruesome murders they of fiction film and documentary. Lina´s lusty without any medical attention due to the become victims of this evil force. What Jaws longing for her lover receives an absurd family’s spiritual beliefs, Todd must make did to swimming, Shut-Eye Hotel will do for and musical twist during an unexpected a choice: let his friend die or break his oath sleeping. encounter in a coconut cake factory. Winner of non-violence and take matters into his Directed by Bill Plymptom of dozens of film festival awards. own hands. Colorado Premiere Directed by Charlotte Blom Boulder Premiere Directed by Justin Lerner Starring Travis Young Carmichael & shane Boulder Premiere Australia, short film, 2006, 6 min. Magnetic Squirrel in Dog Dazed Justin Lerner and Travis Young in person A single father raising twins decides on a USA/Colorado, short animated film, 2007, 3 min. non-PC method of parenting. CARMICHAEL Old-school Saturday morning cartoon fun! The Job & shane is a mock documentary short film If you like your squirrel well done, then this USA, short film, 2007, 3 min. about Angus Wilson, a single father of cartoon’s for you. The immigration debate just got a little fun- two-year-old twin boys. Though he loves Directed by Patrick Mallek nier. “Brilliant,” says The Austin Chronicle. both children equally, Angus believes it is World Premiere in the boys’ best interest for him to choose Patrick Mallek in person Directed by Jonathan Browning Boulder Premiere a favorite. Jonathan Browning in person Directed by Rob Carlton and Alex Weinress Boulder Premiere

12 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 12 PROGRAM 13 Saturday, 2:30pm, Boulder Theater Saturday, 4:30pm, Boulder Theater True North 3 Peaks 3 Weeks Germany/UK/Ireland, feature film, 2006, 96 min. USA/Colorado, feature documentary, 2007, 52 min. In 2007, 10 novice mountain-climbing women braved frozen hands, “...One of the decade’s best films about fathers, sons and blistering sunburns and weeks of camp food to climb Africa’s three human struggle. Morally resonant, deeply-felt drama... highest peaks, Mount Kenya, Mount Meru and Mount Kilimanjaro, in storm sequences of terrifying power...” ~Variety just three weeks. Together, they raised $300,000 for three African charities including the St. Jude Secondary Campus in Tanzania. A grim, whiskey-soaked Joseph-Conradian thriller Between each peak, they visited with and became passionate about about adventure and guilt on the high seas, the local recipient organizations to which every dollar received can this impressive feat of filmmaking shot on a have a direct impact. Each of the women paid their own way so that real fishing trawler as it rolls and dips through all funds raised went directly to the three causes. Coming soon: 3 battering North Sea storms shows the cascade Peaks 3 Weeks Challenge 2009, an event that aims to bring together of ghastly, unintentional choices people are women from around the world who are willing to challenge themselves sometimes forced to make when they temporarily beyond their comfort zone—physically and emotionally—all to make abandon their true values. First mate Sean’s own a difference in Africa. moral compass is thrown askew when he accepts Directed by Michael Brown a huge amount of money to smuggle Chinese Produced by David D’Angelo immigrants from Belgium to Scotland in order to World Premiere save his father’s fishing trawler from reposses- All 10 women will be coming to BIFF from around the world to see the sion. He sneaks the Chinese into the hold of the film for the first time. Michael Brown, David AD’ ngelo and the crew from ship without the knowledge of his father, a tough Serac Adventure Films also in person. old sea dog called “the Skipper” who, instead Presented in conjunction with the Women’s Wilderness Institute of heading straight home, steers the boat far (womenswilderness.org)

into the North Sea to make one last catch. Below preceded by deck, conditions become inhumane. This finely- Conversing with Aotearoa balanced example of socially-engaged storytell- New Zealand, short animated film, 2006, 14 min. ing manages to find a well of sympathy for both In an age of technological integration and urban life, people turn to perpetrator and victim in the vast world-wide the natural world for renewal. What draws us to wilderness when tragedy of human trafficking. we realize something in our lives is missing? In this unforgettably Directed by Steve Hudson beautiful animated documentary, New Zealanders of all backgrounds US Premiere attempt to fathom their deep passion and love for the wild places. Presented in association with the Directed by Corrie Francis Boulder Asian Film Festival Boulder Premiere and the Boulder Asian Pacific Alliance

13 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com photos: ken woroner

PROGRAM 14 Saturday, 6:30pm, Boulder Theater Charlie Bartlett aftershow Q&A USA, feature film, 2007, 97 min. Special pre-release screening from MGM Among the classic high-school rebels of American movies, there have been truants, delinquents, pranksters and con artists – but there has never been anyone quite like Charlie jon poll Bartlett. An optimist, a truth-teller and a fearless schemer, when Charlie slyly positions himself as his new school’s resident “psychiatrist,” dishing out both honest advice and Jon Poll makes his feature film debut powerful prescriptions, he has no idea the ways in which he will transform his classmates, the school principal and the potential of his own life. with the edgy coming-of-age comedy This is the premise of the provocative, Prozac-era comedy Charlie Bartlett, in which a wealthy Charlie Bartlett, after having already teenager’s foray into bathroom-stall psychiatry becomes a smart, funny and touching one- established himself as one of the man battle against the loneliness, angst and hypocrisy of the modern world. most sought-after editors in Holly- (Alpha Dog) stars as Charlie Bartlett, who has been kicked out of every private wood. Poll honed his skill with comic school he ever attended. And now that he’s moved on to public school, he’s simply getting pummeled. But when Charlie discovers that the kids who surround him – the outcast and the timing and seamless storytelling on popular alike – are secretly in desperate need, his entrepreneurial spirit takes over. Hang- such runaway blockbuster hits as ing up his shingle in the boys’ restroom, Charlie becomes an underground, not to mention the beloved Austin Powers films and under-aged, shrink who listens to the private confessions of his schoolmates, and makes the the outrageous / imprudent decision to hand out the pills he’s proffered from his own psychiatric sessions. Meanwhile, at home, Charlie keeps charming his way out of an inevitable confrontation with series. Poll most his adoring but utterly overwhelmed mother Marilyn (Hope Davis). recently switched gears to serve as Then, Charlie Bartlett makes his big mistake: falling in love with the beautiful and bold Executive Producer of the acclaimed daughter (Kat Dennings) of the school’s increasingly disenchanted Principal (Robert Downey, The 40-Year- Jr.), who is hot on his trail. As Charlie Bartlett’s world and fledgling psychiatric practice unravel, he begins to discover there’s a whole lot more to making a difference than handing Old Virgin. Join out pills. Jon Poll for a Charlie Bartlett marks the directorial debut of Jon Poll – a world-class film editor with deep lively question comic roots who has collaborated with on both the blockbuster Meet the Parents and answer and Austin Powers series, among others – and the screen debut of writer Gustin Nash. The producers are David Permut, Barron Kidd, Jay Roach and Sidney Kimmel. The executive session after producers are William Horberg, Jennifer Perini, Trish Hofmann and Bruce Toll. Steve Longi the screening. and Gustin Nash co-produced. A Sidney Kimmel Entertainment Film Cast: Anton Yelchin, Robert Downey, Jr., Hope Davis, Kat Dennings Director: Jon Poll NO ELECTRONIC EQUIPMENT IS PERMITTED IN THE Writer: Gustin Nash THEATRE. THIS INCLUDES BUT IS NOT LIMITED TO VIDEO/ DIGITAL CAMERA, STILL CAMERA, AUDIO RECORDERS AND Producers: David Permut, Barron Kidd, Jay Roach, Sidney Kimmel LAPTOPS. CELL PHONES WITH PICTURE-TAKING CAPABILI- Executive Producers: William Horberg, Jennifer Perini, Trish Hofmann, Bruce Toll TIES ARE ALLOWED, PROVIDED THEY ARE TURNED OFF OR PLACED IN SILENT MODE. Jon Poll in person

14 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com

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Oscar-nominee (Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room) presents a methodical and harrowing look at the practices of the U.S. in Afghanistan, Iraq and Guantanamo Bay. As a PROGRAM 15 springboard, Gibney uses the case of , an Afghan taxi driver (later found to be innocent) whose Saturday, 9:15pm, Boulder Theater death was concluded through autopsy evidence to have been caused by five days of sustained torture Taxi to the Dark Side by U.S. interrogators. Through interviews with former Bush Administration officials, this shocking film USA, feature documentary, 2007, 106 min. shows how we have become a nation whose government openly renounced the Geneva Conventions and officially sanctioned the use of torture for the first time in our 220-year history. How importantly does the Bush Administration regard Taxi to the Dark Side? The Motion Picture Association of America, reportedly under pressure from the Defense Department, BANNED the official poster for this film. The “forbidden” poster can be seen in the lobby of the Boulder Theater during the screening. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary 2008. Directed by Alex Gibney Boulder Premiere

PROGRAM 16 Saturday, 10:15am, Boulder Public Library Greensboro: Closer to the Truth USA, feature documentary, 2007, 83 min. On November 3, 1979, a heavily armed caravan of Klansmen and Nazis drove into Greensboro, North Carolina and confronted anti- Klan marchers. During the ensuing gunfire, captured on videotape by four TV crews, five anti-Klan marchers were killed and 10 others wounded. Despite overwhelming evidence, no one was ever convicted. The film portrays a number of the participants—five of the survivors and two Klansmen—who have been scarred by murdered spouses, physical injuries, public and judicial persecu- tion, and shifting political realities over the past quarter century. In 2004-2006, the survivors converge as Greensboro mounts the first Truth and Reconciliation Commission in the U.S. in the hope of putting demons to rest. Directed by Adam Zucker Boulder Premiere

15 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 18 Saturday, 4:30pm, Boulder Public Library Forever, Never, Anywhere Austria, feature film, 2007, 89 min. PROGRAM 17 This funny Jean-Paul-Sarte-meets-Stephen- Saturday, 12:00pm, Boulder Public Library King intellectual puzzle has been the hit of top Row Hard, No Excuses film festivals from Rotterdam to Toronto. Let’s USA, feature documentary, 2007, 88 min. say you’re an accordian-playing hitchiker, you’re In this great epic of endurance and wit, John Zeigler and Tom Mailhot (two picked up by an archeologist and his drunk slightly-past-prime adventurers) enter a rowboat race across the Atlantic, an brother-in-law and, seconds later, the driver event that is as psychologically challenging as it is physically brutal. Lacking swerves off the road to avoid a beautiful jogger a sponsor, they dig deep into their personal savings and build their own boat and the three of you plunge into a dense forest. even though the event has no prize money. Unfortunately, like the heroes of The car’s reinforced doors automatically lock Moby Dick and The Old Man and the Sea, the duo allow their simple pursuit of you in (think Christine), and the glass is bullet- a dream to morph into near-fanatic obsession. Careers, marriages and credit proof because the vehicle was formerly owned scores are all threatened in this test of the outer limits of human endurance by Kurt Waldheim. Finally, after days of inane during a mid-life crisis. It’s impossible not to be swept away, though, by the conversation with people you don’t even like terrible grandeur of the sea and the indomitable courage of our heroes as they (think No Exit), your savior comes in the form of bicker and squabble their way across the Atlantic into an uncertain future. a nerdy kid who, unfortunately, turns out to be Directed by Luke Wolbach a sadist. How do you get out of the car with just Boulder Premiere a piece of string? Rower Tom Mailhot in person Directed by Antonin Svoboda Colorado Premiere

SPECIAL EVENT D Saturday, 7:30pm, Macky Auditorium on the CU Campus Boulder Philharmonic Orchestra does Nevsky LIVE with The Ars Nova Singers Conducted by Michael Butterman Tickets can be purchased at boulderphil.org or at the door Alexander Nevsky Russia, feature film clips, 1938 BIFF is proud to collaborate with the Boulder Philharmonic on this screening of the 1938 historical drama based on the life of Alexander Nevsky. The film depicts the 13th-cen- tury conflict between the Teutonic Knights of the Holy Roman Empire and the Russian People of Novgorod. Filmed during the Stalinist era when the was at odds with , the movie, which Stalin asked director Sergei Eisenstein to make, was intended to warn the Soviet people of German aggression. Clips from the film will be screened as the Boulder Philharmonic plays Prokofiev’s brilliant score. The Ars Nova Singers will also contribute to this unique and unforgettable performance. Prior to the evening’s screening of Alexander Nevsky, the Boulder Phil welcomes Judith Ingolfsson, who will perform Korngold’s dramatic and tuneful violin concerto. Film Directed by Sergei Eisenstein

16 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 19 PROGRAM 20 PROGRAM 21 Saturday, 6:30pm, Boulder Public Saturday, 11:00am, Boulder High School Saturday, 1:00pm, Boulder High School Library Beauty Mark Free for students and seniors 65+ with valid ID The Life Penalty USA/Colorado, feature documentary, 2008, 74 min. Sputnik Mania USA/Colorado, feature documentary, USA, feature documentary, 2007, 86 min. 2008, 74 min. Examining popular culture’s toxic emphasis on How did a rebel public defender women’s weight and looks, Boulder psychothera- To America, it was as great a shock as Pearl from Boulder, Colorado throw pist and former world-class triathlete Diane Israel Harbor. To a paranoid country whose school- a monkey wrench into America’s tells her own story and interviews champion ath- children were already trained in surviving a “death machine?” Slip into a letes, body builders, fashion models and inner-city nuclear attack, a country that had seen half of juror’s seat as David Wymore and teens about their experiences relating to self-im- the planet taken over by Communism, a country other nationally recognized criminal age. This deeply personal and funny film asks that believed in the natural superiority of its defense attorneys bring their fight important questions: How do our families influence own technological abilities, the Russian Sputnik against the death penalty to the our relationships with our own bodies? How does was a devastating, humiliating and threatening front line – the courtroom. Casting a blow. Throughout 1958, as tensions increased, revelatory and often uncomfortable the culture get inside of our hearts and heads? light on our judicial system, The Life In what ways do sports serve to make us sicker the U.S. and U.S.S.R. between them tested a Penalty shakes the ethical and moral instead of healthier? Notable luminaries such nuclear bomb in the atmosphere every three foundations of capital punishment in as playwright Eve Ensler, author Paul Campos days. Now, with the help of recently released the contemporary United States. An and cultural critic Naomi Wolf provide their own documents and footage from the former Soviet original documentary film about insights. This courageous, powerful, poignant film Union, the full story of how close we came to David Wymore and the Colorado is for anyone who has ever felt invisible because global nuclear war can be told for the first time. method of jury selection. they didn’t conform to our culture’s impossible, Winner of the 2007 International Documentary Directed by David Quint unhealthy, abnormal beauty standards. Association Award. Produced by Doug Bry Diane Israel, Director and Exec. Producer Directed by David Hoffman David Quint, Doug Bry, former public Kathleen Man, Director and Editor Colorado Premiere defender Judy Lucero and CU law pro- David Hoffman in person fessor H. Patrick Furman in person Carla Precht, Director and Producer Diane Israel, Kathleen Man, Carla Precht, and world- Presented in association with Ball Aerospace and class athletes and local celebrities in person The Boulder Public Library Film Program

PROGRAM 22 Sunday, 10:00am, Boulder Theater The Monastery Denmark, feature documentary, 2006, 84 min.

A gorgeous film shot in an other-worldly castle in the lush Danish preceded by countryside, The Monastery centers on Mr. Vig, a flinty 82-year-old whose Glass, Concrete, and Stone deliberately small world is turned upside down when he decides to will his USA, short student documentary, 2007, estate to the Russian Orthodox Church to be converted into a monastery. 11 min. To prepare his castle, the Church sends a strong-willed cadre of nuns A short film about buildings. from Moscow who are led by a certain Sister Amvrosija, a pragmatic, Directed by Doug Nicholas determined woman. A five-year battle of wills ensues as Vig and the nuns Colorado Premiere negotiate and quarrel with often unexpected hilarity. Vig admits that his lifelong bachelorhood has clearly left him ill-prepared for negotiat- ing effectively with members of the opposite sex, but he eventually, and grudgingly, learns to do just that. Winner of the prestigious Joris Ivens Award at the IDFA. Directed by Pernille Rose Gronkjaer Colorado Premiere

17 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 23 Short Films 2 Sunday, 12:00pm, Boulder Theater

Salim Baba Mr. Reaper’s Really Bad Morning India/USA, short documentary film, 2007, 15 min. Canada, short animated film, 2006, 17 min. Salim Muhammad is a 55-year-old pragmatic business- In the 21st century, Death, Mr. G. Reaper, has been reduced man and cinephile who lives with his wife and five to your average 9-to-5 working stiff, eking out an ineffectual children in the slums of North Calcutta, India. Since existence, reduced to a pale shade of his former glorious self. The learning his craft at his father’s side at the age of 10, film has him wake up, get ready for work, wait for a bus and suf- he has made a living screening discarded scraps of fer humiliation at the hands of Norman the Daisy. The film, with films for the locals in the streets using an 1897 hand- its slapstick madness and frantic pacing, is in four parts and is cranked projector mounted on a portable theatre. He structured loosely on Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. hopes his family will carry on his legacy. Nominated for Directed by Kevin D.A. Kuynik and Carol Beecher the 2008 Academy Awards. Colorado Premiere Directed by Tim Sternberg Boulder Premiere My Name is Ahmed Ahmed The Fog (La Niebla) USA, short documentary, 2006, 8 min. Mexico/Spain, short animated film, 2006, 7 min. “...And I can’t fly anywhere.” Such is the hilarious life of Ahmed Led by the words of an old man, witness the extraordi- Ahmed, an Egyptian-American stand-up comedian who, in the nary events that changed the life of a town forgotten tradition of great minority comics, mixes stinging truths with amidst the fog. self-deprecating wit to charm even the toughest audiences. “In Directed by Emilio Ramos hate crimes, we’re still fourth behind blacks, gays and Jews,” Colorado Premiere Ahmed says. “I mean, what do we have to DO?” Directed by Matthew Testa In the Name of the Son Colorado Premiere USA, short student film, 2007, 25 min. After escaping execution, Tarik, a Bosnian prisoner of The Cave: An Adaptation of Plato’s Allegory in Clay war, immigrates to the United States looking to leave USA/Colorado, short animated film, 2007, 3 min. his past behind. Years later, the man who spared his This film is a classic commentary on the human condition. life shows up on Tarik’s doorstep asking for a favor: he wants to die. Winner of an American Film Institute Directed by Michael Ramsey Produced by Timothy Schultz Award, and awards at Telluride and Sarajevo. Animated by John Grigsby Directed by Harun Mehmedinovic World Premiere Boulder Premiere Michael Ramsey, Timothy Schultz and John Grigsby in person Taken USA/Colorado, short film, 2007, 4 min. Tanghi Argentini (Tango Argentina) When an old woman at the bank slips Joe a note saying Belgium, short film, 2006, 13 min. she has been taken hostage, he must steel himself to Despite the faceless and cold atmosphere at his work place, an find the courage to help. After a daring rescue, he learns office clerk tries to make his colleagues happy. Instead of the the truth about the victim who has been “Taken.” cliché Christmas gifts, Andre goes to great lengths to give his colleagues something real and precious. Tanghi Argentini is a Directed by Don Sniffin Boulder Premiere modern fairy tale. Nominated for the 2008 Academy Awards. Don Sniffin in person Directed by Guido Thys

18 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 24 Sunday, 2:30pm, Boulder Theater Iron Ladies of Liberia Liberia/USA/Colorado, feature documentary, 2007, 77 min. How do you rebuild a country from zero after 14 brutal years of civil war? This film has one good answer—let women lead. With many of the men of the country missing or dead, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf was elected President of Liberia by an overwhelming majority of the country’s 1.3 million women voters, becoming the first woman ever elected head of state in Africa. But that was just the beginning. This funny, outspoken grandmother of six (with an MBA from Harvard) shook the country to its male-dominated foundations by appointing women to its most powerful positions, all the while facing mortal danger, not the least of which was the constant threat that brutal dictator Charles Taylor might return. This unforgettable film puts us in the room with President Sirleaf as she and her “Iron Ladies” forge a democratic African revolution. Directed by Daniel Junge and Siatta Scott Johnson Produced by Henry Ansbacher Boulder Premiere Daniel Junge, Henry Ansbacher and members of the my marriage broke up for religious reasons. he thought he was god, and i didn’t.

anonymous

19 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com PROGRAM 25 Sunday, 12:15pm, Boulder Public Library Enemies of Happiness Afghanistan/Denmark, feature documentary, 2007, 59 min. Surviving four assasination attempts, 28 year-old National Assembly Delegate Malalai Joya embodies the courage to change the world and to stand in the forefront of battle. Joya conducts her parliamentary campaign in the remote desert province of Farah, the heart of poverty in Afghanistan. Protected by armed guards, Joya addresses crowds of women, pledging to be their voice and “expose the enemies of peace, women and democracy.” In the presence of her fierce tenacity, we can imagine the future of an enlightened nation. Directed by Eva Mulvad Co-presented by Present Tense Film Series www.presenttensefilms.com

preceded by power In Times of War: Ray Parkers Story USA, short documentary, 2006, 29 min. One man’s incredible WWII journey, told in his own words: the bomber flights, his capture and imprisonment, writing the secret underground newspaper for the prison camp of over peace 9,000 men, and finally, freedom for himself, and the world. “The bravest woman Directed by Mark and Christine Bonn in Afghanistan.” Mark and Christine Bonn in person Amy Goodman, Democracy Now

PROGRAM 26 Sunday, 2:15pm, Boulder Public Library Everybody Wants to Be Italian USA, feature film, 2008, 100 min. Soulmates are like fish, they’re everywhere. A lovelorn fishmonger who has spent nearly a p s y c h i c decade trying to win back his ex- girlfriend gets involved in a case PROGRAM 27 of mistaken ethnicity in this Sunday, 4:15pm, Boulder Public Library warm-hearted romantic comedy. Seeing Sally: A Psychic’s Tale It’s been eight years since Jake’s USA, feature documentary, 2007, 87 min. girlfriend left him, and despite the Peter Goodman’s charming film tells the unbelievable fact that she’s now married with story of Sally Morgan, a feisty English mother who three children he refuses to move supports her big family with her strange ability to see on. Fed up with their depressive pal’s and hear dead people. This funny documentary follows unwillingness to let go of the past, Jake’s the ever-confident Sally to the U.S., where she tries to friends set him up on a blind date with win media attention to find a larger audience for her a beautiful Italian woman from Boston’s services. Unfortunately, the world-wide multi-billion- North End. Though Jake is convinced that dollar psychic industry does have its joyless detractors such a woman would never even consider and Sally meets hers head-on by consenting to a series dating a non-Italian, a quick crash course of scientific tests conducted by a respected university in how to fake it may prove just the trick to researcher. Will Sally be debunked...or go on to fame and helping him learn to love once again. fortune? Directed by Jason Todd Ipson Directed by Peter Goodman Colorado Premiere Peter Goodman in person

20 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com ” p a s s i o n

PROGRAM 28 PROGRAM 30 Sunday, 12:00pm, Boulder High School Sunday, 3:15pm, Boulder High School Autism: The Musical The USA, feature documentary, 2007, 93 min. USA, feature documentary, 2007, 97 min. Steeped in a sense of optimism, this remarkable film follows writes of this film, “Imagine the scene in five autistic children over the course of a year as they write, Casablanca in which the French patrons sing ‘La Marseillaise’ rehearse and produce their own full-length musical, tossing in defiance of the Germans, then multiply its power by a factor aside all stereotypes in the process. Moving and dramatic, of thousands, and you’ve only begun to imagine the force of the film follows the joys and tribulations of the kids and their The Singing Revolution.” This is one of history’s most thrilling families during this amazing stage production. The modern-day stories about how dozens of Estonian students in 1987 began epidemic of autism is as vivid and fierce as any hot-button gathering publicly and singing “forbidden” patriotic songs, topic in our country today. One in 10,000 kids were afflicted about how those dozens became hundreds, then thousands, with the condition just over a decade ago; now it’s 1 in 150. On then tens of thousands, then hundreds of thousands. Finally the short list for the Academy Awards Best Documentary 2008. in 1991, The Singing Revolution ended the crushing 40-year- Directed by Tricia Regan long Soviet occupation of without the loss of a single Boulder Premiere life. Tears seem to flow wherever this film is screened—the passion of the music, the magnificence of the chorales and the Q&a emotional roller coaster of this grand, operatic and potentially Brief discussion to follow with Betty Lehman, Executive Director of the Autism Society of Colo- fatal game of “Chicken” have sparked a visceral reaction in “ rado, and additional parents of autistic children. film-festival audiences throughout the world. ” Directed by Jim Tusty and Maureen Castle Colorado Premiere Jim Tusty in person

21 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com closing night awards & film Doors open 6:00pm Appetizers & cocktails 6:00-7:30pm The Kailin Yong Trio 6:00-7:30pm Awards Ceremony 7:30pm Film 8:00pm

Food by The Boulder Chophouse & Tavern

PROGRAM 31 Sunday, 6:00pm, Boulder Theater Stranded: I’ve Come From a Plane That Crashed on the Mountains France, feature documentary, 2007, 113 min.

“Sundance 2008’s most celebrated film. Indiewire A cinematic tour de force...the deftly wrought tale will have audiences eating out of its hand”. Variety

For the first time ever, survivors of the famous 1974 Andes plane crash tell in their own words the harrowing story of one of the greatest tales of human survival. Director Gonzalo Arijon accompanies survivors and their children back to the mountaintop location, and, as their memories flood back, the men tell the details of their horrifying story: the crash-strewn bodies of their friends, the two and a half months of bitter cold and fading hope, the later avalanche that killed eight more of their team- mates, their agonizing decision to consume the frozen remains of their friends to delay their own star- vation. Arijon intercuts the survivors’ reminiscences with electrifying flashbacks, recently discovered photographs and an interview with the shepherd who first saw two of the survivors stumbling down the mountain. “They smelled of the grave,” he recalls. Days after this film won the top prize at the International Documentary Festival Amsterdam, people and press there were still talking about it. It’s been 35 years since the incident, but Stranded suggests the men have only just now, at the moment they appear onscreen, summoned up the courage to talk about it at all. Directed by Gonzalo Arijon Executive produced by Mark Silvera Colorado Premiere Co-presented with the Boulder Adventure Film Festival (boulderadventurefilm.com)

the The BIFF award statuettes are individually crafted by Boulder native and nationally Vielehr renowned sculptor Bill Vielehr.

22 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com Biff Staff community relations Staff Advisory Board Robin Beeck Executive Director Carolyn Donadio Jim England Kathy Beeck Director Catherine Lee Shaun McGrath Ron Bostwick Executive Producer Karen Partak Jim Palmer Cole Bradley Intern Mark Smither Carolyn Schuham Scott Chavkin Sponsor Liaison Katie Stefanski people Sonja Tuitele Joseph Cummins Events Coordinator Mary Ann Williamson Erica Czahor Registration Coordinator Marsha Walker Glen Czaplewski Pre-Festival Liaison applause for our & Film Shipping Selection Committee Board of amazing Carolyn Donadio Venue Manager Kathy Beeck Erin Gamble Venue Manager Directors volunteers! Robin Beeck Becca Heaton Program Coordinator Kathy Beeck Without the dedication of BIFF’s Patti Bonnet Eric Hoffman Stage Manager Robin Beeck too-numerous-to-list volunteers, Cole Bradley Bodie Johnson Stage Manager Annamaria Boehms the Festival would be impossible. Patricia Bruck Lois LaFond Events Coordinator Jill Cheslik David Harrison Arlene Lamar Merchandise Coordinator Jeanine Fritz Bill Vielehr Catherine Lee Filmmaker Liaison Rise Keller Coordinator Bob LaRue Patrick Malek Animation Director Marty Mapes The Colorado Film Society Pat McGriff Venue Coordinator Scott Poston Keri Mullin Video Production Manager Erik Sween BIFF is produced by The Colorado Film Society, a nonprofit organiza- Robyn Nick Boulder Theater Stage Mgr. tion whose mission is to encourage and celebrate the art of film by Karen Partak Venue Manager creating a dynamic forum for artistic, social, and cultural awareness in Michael Puldy Volunteer Coordinator the community. The CFS aims to inspire and enlighten Colorado audi- Dave Riepe Technical Director Program Guide ences with the Festival and other film programs throughout the year; Krystal Sentz Venue Manager Becca Heaton Managing Editor to conduct educational outreach programs for students and film lovers Geoff Thompson Program Assistant FlowBoulder.com Design alike; to be a resource for local filmmakers and film organizations; and Brad Weismann Workshops & Panels to provide independent filmmakers with a venue for showcasing their Coordinator Geoff Thompson Support/Center Schedule Grid Layout ideas and growing their careers. Mary Ann Williamson Community Sign up for the CFS monthly newsletter at www.biff1.com. Relations Coordinator Nicky Wolman Educational Outreach talent Manager See BIFF photos online at: Arlan Beeck IT Director Patrick Dumont Composer Betty Beeck Film Tracking Manager Randy Malone Festival Photographer www.photomalone.com and fashionistaphoto.com Shelly Beeck Advisor

23 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com THURSDAY FRIDAY program feb 14 feb 15

Boulder Boulder Boulder Other # film C special event Theater Theater Public Library Venues 8 8 Index Special Event Program Page Filmmakers’ Panel A 8 9 9 Filmmakers’ Reception C 9 Boulder Philharmonic, Alexander Nevsky D 22 10 10 Film Program Page 2 10:00am American Black Banjo Player 6 12 Running Down the Aria Next Door 11 15 11 11 Man Autism: The Musical 28 27 Beauty Mark 20 23 King Lines The Beckoning Silence 7 13 Beyond the Call 4 11 N N Carmichael & shane 11 15 3 12:00pm The Cave: An Adaptation of Plato’s Allegory in Clay 23 24 Son of Man Charlie Bartlett 14 20 1 1 Coco-Nuts 11 15 Conversing with Aotearoa 13 17 Dalai Lama Renaissance 5 12 The Death of Shula 11 15 2 2 Enemies of Happiness 25 26 4 2:00pm Everybody Wants to Be Italian 26 26 The Fog 23 24 Beyond the Call Forever, Never, Anywhere 18 22 3 3 Glass, Concrete and Stone 22 23 Greensboro: Closer to the Truth 16 21 In the Name of the Son 23 24 In Times of War: 4 4 Ray Parker’s Story 25 26 8 4:00pm Iron Ladies of Liberia 24 25 5 4:15pm The Job 11 15 Last Hat in Town King Lines 2 11 5 5 Dalai Lama Last Hat in Town 8 13 Renaissance Les Paul: Chasing Sound 9 13 The Life Penalty 19 23 Magnetic Squirrel 6 6 and Dog Dazed 11 15 1 6:00pm 9 6:00pm Mr. Reaper’s Really 6 6:15pm Bad Morning 23 24 Les Paul: The Monastery 22 23 7 7 Chasing Sound My Name is Ahmed, Ahmed 23 24 Colorado Film Society 7:00pm No Room for Gerold 11 15 Opening Night Gala American Black At Muenzinger Aud. The Replacement Child 11 15 Banjo Player Music by on CU campus Row Hard, No Excuses 17 22 8 8 Otis & Cassie Taylor Running Down the Man 2 11 The Hazel Miller perform Southland Tales Salim Baba 23 24 JazzTrio plays Fri & Sat, Seeing Sally: A Psychic’s Tale 27 26 War Dance Film see page 11 Shut-Eye Hotel 11 15 9 Then She Found Me 9 The Singing Revolution 30 27 Son of Man 3 11 Southland Tales/CU Muenzinger 11 7 9:30pm Sputnik Mania 21 23 10 10 9:45pm Stranded: I’ve Come From a The Beckoning At Muenzinger Aud. Plane That Crashed /Mountains 31 28 Silence on CU campus Taken 23 24 Tanghi Argentini 23 24 11 11 Southland Tales Taxi to the Dark Side 15 21 plays Fri & Sat, Then She Found Me 1 10 see page 11 3 Peaks 3 Weeks 13 17 True North 12 17 M M 20 Seconds of Joy 10 14 Two Swimmers 10 14 War/Dance 6 12 1 1

24 | boulder international film festival 08 www.biff1.com SATURDAY SUNDAY feb 16 feb 17

Boulder Boulder Other Boulder Boulder Other Theater Public Library Venues Theater Public Library Venues 8 8

9 9

10 10 10 10:00am 22 10:00am 16 10:15am Two Swimmers Glass, Concrete and 11 Greensboro: Closer 11 Stone 20 Seconds of Joy to the Truth 20 11:00am The Monastery At Boulder High N School N 11 12:00pm 17 12:00pm Beauty Mark 23 12:00pm 28 12:00pm 25 12:15pm Row Hard, No Shorts Program 2 At Boulder High 1 Shorts Program 1 Excuses 1 In Times of War School See page 15 See page 24 21 1:00pm Enemies of Autism: The Musical Happiness At Boulder High 2 School 2 Sputnik Mania 26 2:15pm 12 2:30pm A 2:30pm 24 2:30pm 3 3 Everybody Wants to Filmmakers’ Panel Iron Ladies of Be Italian True North Liberia 30 3:15pm

4 4 At Boulder High School 27 4:15pm 18 4:30pm The Singing 13 4:30pm Revolution 5 5 Conversing with Forever, Never, Seeing Sally: Aotearoa Anywhere A Psychic’s Tale 3 Peaks 3 Weeks 6 6 C 6:00pm 31 6:00pm At BMOCA 14 6:30pm 19 6:30pm Filmmakers’ Closing Night 7 Reception 7 Charlie Bartlett The Life Awards Ceremony Penalty D 7:30pm Film 8 8 At Macky Stranded: Auditorium with I’ve Come from a the Boulder Plane That Crashed money is like sand, it Philharmonic on the Mountains 9 9 can wash away. but, passion Alexander 15 9:15pm Nevsky is innate and enduring. n o ! s s a p Steve Haile 10 10 Taxi to the Dark Side 11 11

M M

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