Past Newsletters - 2010
December 15, 2010
November 29, 2010
October 25, 2010
October 4, 2010
September 27, 2010
September 15, 2010
September 1, 2010
August 18, 2010
August 11, 2010 August 4, 2010
July 24 ,2010
June 29, 2010
June 1, 2010
May 19, 2010
April 27, 2010
April 1, 2010
March 2010
December 15, 2010
Happy Holidays from all of us!!
In this issue:
A Toast to 2011 & Rex & Carrie Rice First Tuesday Salon with Gandhi at The Bat & True Grit
Sound of Music ~ January 16th at 11AM
Filmmaker Patricia Van Ryker presents Twenty Five Hundred and One in schools, libraries and community centers thru out the region
Ringing in the New Year with PTFI
Every organization should be so lucky.
Last year this wonderful couple showed up at our offices with lunch bag that was too heavy to carry with one hand. It held all of the change they had collected over the year, neatly rolled and ready to deliver to the bank.
This year they appeared at the top of our stairs with what looked to be a bottle of really good Scotch. Better than that, it was the box from the really good Scotch, filled with the quarters from their pockets in 2010.
What a wonderful way to show their support. But that is not nearly all they do. Carrie has been singing our praises at the Farmer's Market all spring and summer, and she runs our Oscar auction to support PTFF educational programs. Rex volunteers his musical skills all over town, in addition to playing in at least two bands. Not only do they host filmmakers each year, but also make transport trips to SeaTac when needed throughout the festival weekend.
A toast to both of you, shining examples of what community is all about!
First Tuesday Salon: January 4, 2011
Welcoming some of our most favorite filmmakers, Steph Argy and Alec Boehm with their great short film, Gandhi at the Bat. Fortunate PTFF members will get $1 off their tickets and 50 cents off of the best popcorn in town. We are so pleased to be hosting Steph and Alec on their way to Yakima for a 5 night run of their feature film, The Red Machine.
First Tuesday Salon will also bring a new voice in this missive. We would like to introduce Bill Mann, who will be penning occasional film reviews for us. PT resident Bill Mann has been entertainment critic/columnist at several major dailies, including the San Francisco Examiner and Oakland Tribune. He covers Canada for Dow Jones' MarketWatch.com and writes a media column for several San Francisco area newspapers. Here is his premiere posting:
True Grit -- a trendy new foodie/polenta place in PT?
It's also a good name for the sequel to a John Wayne flick about a sodden, one- eyed Rooster -- starring the irritable Jeff Bridges.
True Grit (rated PG) is the latest film by those loveable Coen brothers, and it's the featured film of our First Tuesday Salon, January 4, 2011.
We could subtitle the quirky new Western 'The Steinfeld Show', since it co-stars a plucky young actress, Hallee Steinfeld, who starred in a short film featured at PTFF this year, but thought better of it. (Hallee is the non-grizzled one in this new Coen pone).
The 1968 original won the only Oscar for the Duke, whose biggest prior award to this was having a marina in Sequim named after him. "Dude" Lebowski and the Coens, together again! Plus, drunken dissolution, as 'Crazy Heart' fans know, is something of a Bridges specialty. --Bill Mann Trailer
Our Q & A following the film will feature a conversation with Steph and Alec about independent filmmaking in these times. These are smart young filmmakers with an eye that is truly unique. You can see their wonderful feature, The Red Machine, by checking it out from the PTFI library, if you are a member. The Sound of Music!! Sunday January 16th 11am
Costumes! Prizes! Fun and Music, too! Yes, Hasse, we finally pulled this together, thanks to Criterion . What a great way to gather on Sunday for this uplifting classic film.
Prizes will be awarded for Best Costume, Most Unusual Interpretation and Family Prize.
Tickets $15 available at The Rose Theatre box office. Advance tickets will make a great holiday gift.
Can't make it? Buy two tickets and donate them to families that would enjoy this event. Oly Cap will help us make sure they are included.
Wow, The Sound of Music right here in the Rose Theatre. Thanks, Rocky! Purchase tickets and find out more at the Rose Theatre box office online right here.
Twenty Five Hundred and One
PTFI is delighted to announce our next educational program. Fresh from our 2010 festival, filmmaker Patricia Van Ryker presents Twenty Five Hundred and One in schools, libraries and community centers thru out the region. Website.
Thanks to the cooperation of many individuals, this film presents another aspect of immigration, the power of art and film.
During the week of January 24, 2011 Van Ryker will visit schools in Quilcene, Chimacum, Port Townsend, and Port Angeles presenting this Spanish language documentary.
On Thursday, January 27th at 7pm there will be a free public screening at discussion at the Port Townsend Public Library.
Friday evening, January 28th Peninsula College will host a screening and discussion in Port Angeles. Call for details 360-417-6238.
First Night December 31st 6-9PM
An enchanted evening in our little town, thanks to the Jefferson County Historical Society (website) and many other supporters, join your neighbors for an evening of family friendly fun thru out the last night of the old year.
Festivities will include a selection of short films, screened in the lovely, new Theatre Gallery in the Historical Museum - enter on Water St.
Films will include: This is My Family, The Mouse That Soared and Butterfly Circus. Stop by and say "Happy New Year! and then step outside for the fireworks.
Here is our lovely Galatea, dressed for the New Year in white. May the days ahead find you in your favorite chair, with a warm cup in your hand and a good story unfolding around you. Curl up with a good movie, a good book or a good friend.
Best of the season from all of us at The Port Townsend Film Institute, bringing you independent film experiences all year round- oh, and a festival in September.
Janette Force, Executive Director
November 29, 2010 In this issue:
If I only had a hat…
First Tuesday Salon
Film Shoot in Jefferson County
What we are thankful for at PTFF
Soooo, do you wish you had a PTFF 11 hat?
You know, the really great black hat like the one in this picture? Well, here is your chance! Limited edition @ $20, this will be the hot ticket around town, demonstrating YOU WERE THERE! Call the office before December 10th @ 360-379-1333 and help this festival thrive in our new decade. Trophy husband not available. Void where prohibited.
First Tuesday Salon – Dec. 7th @ 7pm.
Join your fellow members of PTFF for Burlesque Directed by: Steve Antin Cast: Cher, Christina Aguilera, Stanley Tucci, Peter Gallagher, Alan Cumming
A wonder of nostalgia for films like they used to make on the MGM lot, seasoned with Cher and Bob Fosse style dance- what's not to like? Following the screening, join in a conversation with Rocky and a dancer or two…
View the Trailer here.
Film Shoot in Jefferson County- Auditions, locations, hospitality
Tristan Stoch, a film student at Pacific University, will be filming a twenty-five minute drama about youth, families and the impact of contemporary abuse cycles on our community. Sound heavy? Well, film is a messenger for information that the filmmaker feels is worthy of consideration.
What would lead a student to tell this tale? In my office he said, "I keep watching films about young people and I never see MY story- about the world I see, or saw growing up."
Here is YOUR chance to be part of the artistic process. You can:
Audition, December 11th, 3pm-6pm, KCPT Office @ 1128 Lawrence St.
Help build sets
Provide shoot locations (request a list)
Provide housing for actors and staff for the shoot in January, 2011
Help feed the masses during the week of shooting
All inquiries should go directly to Tristan, (email) and tell him you heard about his project thru PTFF. We are pleased to introduce his project and support this opportunity for students and adults to be part of the "Lights! Camera! Action!"
What we are grateful for at PTFF
IT has been a banner year to begin this new decade of film appreciation and media literacy with The Port Townsend Film Institute, better known as PTFF. As founding members of our Board of Directors retire, let's take a moment to thank them for their tireless efforts. Linda Maguire, Toby Jordan, Linda Yakush (not shown in the photo)- these remarkable individuals have opened their hearts, their homes and their wallets to help this festival thrive. In the years to come we will have an opportunity to make them proud of their legacy, but without their tenacity and belief in the importance of independent film, we would not be sending you this new set of opportunities to engage in the film world right here at home and around the globe. Thanks too, to our generous patrons, who go above and beyond in their generous support of the PTFF mission. Ticket sales and sponsorships support only 60% of the overhead for our events, educational outreach and library services. The rest comes one check at a time. This season, as you consider end of the year donations to various charitable and community organizations, remember the Peter Simpson Free Cinema is not free, that students meeting Tom Shadyac are still talking about his film and the ideas it sparked- these experiences are funded by YOU, when you make a pledge to PTFF, consider doing it as a multiple year commitment!
With gratitude,
Janette Force, Executive Director
October 25, 2010
In this issue
First Tuesday November 2nd
A Gift From Film Movement
Bidding for Bunky
Final Global Lens of the Season, November 6th Ordinary People
Big Joy Fundraiser Nov 7th @ The Rose
Thanks to Rocky Friedman, our First Tuesday Salon continues as a year- round opportunity for film lovers to deepen our entertainment experiences. On November 2nd, PTFF members will be enjoying their discounted tickets and 50 cents off of their popcorn for a screening of Nowhere Boy.
This portrait of a Beatle as a young man also gives filmmaker Sam Taylor- Wood, working on a thoughtful script by Matt Greenhalgh, creative room to maneuver, introducing us to John just as he and rock 'n' roll discover one another. Aaron Johnson and Kristin Scott Thomas create a unique view of Lennon as a troubled 15 yr old in Liverpool. This is not a music video, it traces some of the mystery of where genius erupts in the most unlikely places. Watch the trailer: here.
Film Movement was very happy to participate in the Port Townsend Film Festival this year for the first time with its film WELCOME, and was ecstatic that it received the Audience Award. As a token of their appreciation for voting WELCOME "Audience Choice Best Narrative Feature" , Film Movement would like to offer Port Townsend Film Festival patrons a chance to bring the red carpet right into their living-rooms, and to get a taste of the wonderful international cinema they have to offer all year round.
Click hereto find out more.
A special discount code has been especially created for you to get 15% off on your 3, 6, or 12 month subscription plans. Film Movement will deliver one premiere foreign or independent film straight from the world's top festivals-- and before they are released in theaters--to your door every month. Sign up now, or give a club membership as a gift to a friend! To receive this offer, head here. and click on 'Subscribe.' When you are ready to checkout, use Promotional Code PTFF15 to receive your discount. Offer good until December 31, 2010.
Bidding for Bunky Echo Hawk's PTFF Painting
Many of our patrons were present when Bunky Echo Hawk took the stage on Saturday, September 25th, paintbrush in hand. While our audiences danced to The Bruce Cowan Quartet featuring Joel Levy, Bunky was performing as well- on canvas and in 45 minutes he finished a 3' by 4' canvas. This piece will be on display at Artisans on Taylor beginning November 13th. Stay tuned for details on the silent auction where this painting could be YOURS!
Global Lens
Our final film of The Global Lens Film Initiative will screen on Nov 6th. Because of a technical problem, our films screened out of sequence and this final presentation will be Ordinary People. On a seemingly average day, a busload of young soldiers is sent to a remote location in the countryside and given a macabre task: the execution of a number of civilians. Dzoni, a green recruit, initially objects, but as he moves from one killing to the next, he is swept up by the spectre of military authority, and quickly becomes desensitized by the apparently routine nature of his task. As he nears the end of his assignment, the quiet horror of the day slowly begins to affect him, forcing a painful reconciliation with his actions.
The Big Joy Project
As a father of West Coast experimental filmmaking, his films broke taboos and earned him awards (from the Cannes Festival, National Film Theatre in London, Royal Film Institute of Brussels, and a lifetime achievement award by the American Film Institute). They reflect both the timely and timeless truths of his epoch.
"Follow your own weird!" was one of James Broughton's favorite mottos, one that he definitely applied to his filmmaking. During this matinee at the Rose Theatre we will see some of James Broughton's most celebrated, quirky, and taboo-breaking experimental films, as well as hear a few of his poems.
This is a benefit for the Big Joy Project, which is a film about the power of art to change lives, using the life of poet and filmmaker James Broughton as a lens.
James Broughton claimed our community as his own and we are delighted to continue that legacy. Don't miss these rare films and an opportunity to contribute toward the creation of a full length documentary about this inspiring artist.
PTFF Store On Line
Later in November we will be opening our On-Line store, where you can purchase jackets, mugs, poster collections and a surprise or two. In the meantime, thanks for your on going encouragement and support,
Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF
Audience
October 4, 2010
In this issue:
Lost & Found Festival Items
Audience Choice Awards
Festival Facts
Membership cards
More Film Events
Men's silver ring found on Taylor St when the straw bales were stacked. Call our office @ 379-1333 to identify. Cell phone in the pocket of an orange shirt, both lost on Taylor Street. Call our office if you have it.
Audience Choice Awards
At this year's festival, your ticket was your ballot. Any film screened at our festival was considered in the ballot process. We have worked for a week, counting and calculating as best we can, how you responded to our 95 films. Ballot count is weighted to consider the size of venues, the time of screening and how many screenings a film had. Here are results, with thanks to our patient volunteers and data geeks!
Audience Choice Best Narrative Feature: Welcome Directed by Philippe Lioret
Audience Choice Best Documentary Feature: Most Dangerous Man in America: Dan Ellsberg and the Pentagon Papers Directed by Judith Ehrlich & Rick Goldsmith
Audience Choice Best Short Narrative was a tie:
Butterfly Circus Directed by Joshua Weigel
And
Kavi Directed by Gregg Helvel
Audience Choice Best Short Documentary: Wings of Silver: The Vi Cowden Story Directed by Mark Bonn
Audience Choice Best Short Animation: The Mouse That Soared Directed by Kyle Bell
Fascinating Festival Facts:
We had 5,436 seats filled in 5 indoor venues plus at least 1,500 happy outdoor movie attendees.
With 75 seats in the Peter Simpson Free Cinema, that venue ran well over 100% capacity at nearly every screening.
We had 196 volunteers during the festival with many more doing pre & post festival work.
We hope to have the 2010 films available in our library before Nov. 1st. We have new library software currently being installed that will make tracking our unique materials more effective. Winter office & library hours will be announced soon. If you are interested in being a volunteer library assistant, please contact the office @ 360-379-1333.
Membership Cards:
If you purchased your pass during our festival and were not able to receive your 2010-2011 membership card because we ran out ( a very happy problem, if you think about it) we have one waiting for you in the office on the 3rd floor of the Mt. Baker Block Bldg, 211 Taylor Street, Suite 32A. Or you can pick it up on Tuesday, Oct. 5th at 1st Tuesday Salon.
Film Feast Continues:
First Tuesday Salon:
October 5, @ 7:20 pm The Rose Theatre will be showing The Social Network.
PTFF Salon conversation: Join your fellow members of PTFF for an evening of conversation with Michael Foster & Keven Elliff following the screening of this hit film.
A modern morality tale full of rich performances by a great young cast playing from a smart, canny script. The Social Network is one of the coolest, sharpest films of the year. (click)
When Medicine Got it Wrong & Walking in Recovery
October 10, @ 1:30 pm Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship 2333 San Juan Ave in the Community Hall Port Townsend
Jefferson County NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness) and Quimper Unitarian Universalist Fellowship will co-sponsor two free films.
Mental Illness Awareness Week (MIAW), Oct 3-10, 2010. The public is invited to view these films on Sunday, October 10, each celebrating important events in the field of mental health - one of recent historical medical significance and the other personal stories of hope that forecasts the future of mental health.
When Medicine Got It Wrong (50min) flashes back to the 1970's when parents were 'fed-up' with being blamed for 'bad parenting' as the cause of their children's mental health issues, particularly schizophrenia. As a result of a group of determined parents (several from WA s tate) the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) was founded, now the largest and most respected grassroots organization in the nation. This is a PBS documentary released in May, 2010
Walking in Recovery (26min) shows real individuals living in WA state telling their stories of recovery and revealing the idea that recovery from mental health issues/brain disorders is not only possible but happening everyday in our communities. This 2010 film was funded by the WA Mental Health Transformation Project and inspires hope in its "recovery message" to a broad audience.
A question and answer period will follow each film.For more information contact Elaine at 360-379-9949.
Snap is proud to present THE SPROUT FILM FESTIVAL on Saturday Oct. 16 at the Port Angeles High School. This event is free for the public. We hope you will join us for this wonderful celebration! The following films will be shown:
10 AM
Hands Away 3 MIN. / MUSIC VIDEO / 2004 / GERMANY People often express joy through movements.
Body & Soul 40 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2007 / USA A rare look at an unusual relationship between two people with disabilities.
Look, I'm In College 31 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2007 / USA Four young men with autism are chosen to pilot a college inclusion program in NYC.
The Other Child 13 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2009 / USA Brothers and sisters have a unique window into each other's world.
1 PM
Street Anthem 3 MIN. / MUSIC VIDEO / 2006 / USA LAZ D performs his music in the streets of downtown Portland, Oregon
Rudely Interrupted 9 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2008 / AUSTRALIA One of Australia's truly unique indie rock acts.
Acting Normal 35 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2008 / USA A performing arts studio changes perceptions.
Cocktails With Ben 11 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2009 / USA Ben's love for life and music, shines through.
Be My Brother 7 MIN . / NARRATIVE / 2009 / AUSTRALIA A young man's charm and charisma challenges the prejudices of a stranger at a bus stop.
Dream Lover 25 MIN. / NARRATIVE / 2002 / USA Will Seth come out of his dream world and declare his love to Linda?
3 PM Dance with Sequim Marimba
6 PM
My Classic Life As An Artist 21 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2004 / USA Autistic artist Larry Bissonnette moves between speech, typing and painting.
Fathers' Voices 14 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2004 / USA Four men raising children with developmental disabilities.
Up Syndrome 24 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2000 / USA A playful, refreshing and unsentimental portrait of Rene, made by his close friend.
Beyond Borders 20 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2009 / BELGIUM Three unique lives, one universal story.
Sheri and Paul 11 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2004 / USA A couple shares their personal thoughts on love and marriage in this candid portrait.
Dreams 4 MIN. / DOCUMENTARY / 2004 / USA Children and adults with Down syndrome, talk about their dreams and triumphs.
There you have it, all the news of the week.
See you at the movies!
Janette Force, Exec Director for Port Townsend Film Festival
Dyan Cannon visits Port Townsend High School from Peninsula Daily News Video News on Vimeo. September 27, 2010
In this issue:
Festival reaches new audiences
And the winners are….
Please fill out the survey
Global Lens 10/2/10 10am My Tehran For Sale First Tuesday Salon at the The Rose 10/5/10 The Social Network
PTFF placed filmmakers in schools in three locations this year, broadening our outreach strategy. Dyan Cannon visited PT High School and Jefferson Community School. Tom Shadyac and his crew visited Chimacum High School. We donated 28 passes to students in 4 schools who had been identified by instructors as those who would take full advantage of an invitation to attend screenings during the festival.
Thanks to Jim Arrabito, the Rakers Car Club provided transportation to our 83 filmmaker guests to be escorted down the hill for opening ceremonies, including Dyan Cannon in this fine little number. Thanks to Puget Sound Energy, we had a bucket truck to capture images of all the folks greeting our guests.
What an honor to present the first Spirit of Port Townsend Film Festival, thanks to Sara Mall Johani and Lateral Line Bronze Foundry.
The criterion for selection: Embody the power of independent film and filmmakers. Embody the challenge our filmmakers bring to open our minds, explore and learn. Embody the unique contribution to art and culture we make in our region. Embody our responsibility and commitment to educate and inspire our community.
Here is what Janette Force said at the Awards Gala:
"I have chosen to present this first award to someone who helped found this festival 10 yrs ago, who has worked in every aspect of planning, production, management and salvage when necessary. This individual has represented us at other festivals, served our community tirelessly (well, almost) and is currently responsible for one of the most successful membership benefits in the 11 yr history of PTFF, 20% off of our bread from Pane d'Amore. I am completely delighted to present the award for The Spirit of the Port Townsend Film Festival to Linda Yakush."
Jury Awards
Just in case you were not able to join the 300+ folks at the American Legion Hall on Saturday evening, September 25th 2010, we feel certain you want to know which films were honored by our jury this year. The jury process continues to evolve here and this year we welcomed film professionals from across the country to join our team. To be considered for a prize here, the film must not be in general distribution and still searching for an audience. Any film that has a distribution fee or is handled by a third party is not included in the jury process. Festival prizes are intended to bring additional attention to worthy projects. So, without further adieu, here are the winners:
Best Narrrative Feature: Obselidia Written & directed by Diane Bell
Obselidia is awarded Best Narrative Feature as an example of pure independent thought provoking film making. Beautifully shot, subtle storytelling. Exquisite tone with an original heartfelt thesis, add to that, a first time director.
Best Narrative Short: Ana's Playground Directed by Eric B. Howell
Best Narrative Short is awarded to Ana's Playground for its unforgettably intense portrait of the horrors of war wrapped around a powerful emotional core.
Special Jury Mention for Narrative Feature Bilal's Stand Directed by Sultan Sharrief
Bilal's Stand has to be mentioned, as an example of filmmaking in the most honorable sense. Praise to this young thoughtful filmmaker who used his story as a learning tool and then as a teaching tool-- inviting everyone from his community to participate in one way or another. An example of how infectious and healing filmmaking can be. And as an example of " the creative collective. "
Best Feature-length Documentary: "For Once in My Life: The Spirit of Goodwill Band" Produced by Jim Bigham and directed by Mark Moormann and James Bigham.
"For Once in My Life" shatters notions about limitations as it follows the struggles of disabled Goodwill Industries employees to overcome physical and emotional challenges in order to achieve their dream of playing in the Spirit of Goodwill Band--and play they do! This tightly constructed, never maudlin film invests viewers in the lives of its subjects, taking us into their homes, their workplace, and their band. Music director Javier Pena is compelling as he deftly balances his job as taskmaster, teacher, and surrogate father to band members. The interweaving of characters and storyline is skillful. By the time the band moves out of the familiar territory of a backroom in a South Florida Goodwill store to perform before more than 1,000 people at the Adrienne Arsht Performing Arts Center, directors Mark Moormann and Jim Bigham have us in the palms of their hands. We're almost as nervous as music director Pena who is uncertain whether the band members can perform under stress in the new and imposing environment. Well-crafted and deeply moving, "For Once in My Life" is first-rate and spot-on.
Best Documentary Short: Alone on the Wall, Directors Peter Mortimer & Nick Rosen: In a world where fame and celebrity has too often become a commodity sought only for itself, it's inspiring that there are still individuals for whom genuine achievement is the goal. Alex Honnold, an unassuming young man who would more likely be mistaken for a computer programmer than a world class athlete, has been quietly redefining the world of extreme solo climbing. Living out of the back of his van, traveling the West, he has made climbs that would have been considered impossible just a few years ago. Alone on the Wall chronicles his life and his record breaking free solo climb of Half Dome in Yosemite National Park. It is taught, crisp filmmaking, and an extraordinary subject.
Special Jury Award: "Bag It", Produced by Michelle Hill and Suzan Beraza and Directed by Suzan Beraza "Bag It" follows everyman Jeb Berrier whose resolution to stop using plastic bags at the grocery store changes his life as it opens our eyes to the destruction wrought by plastic. From the mountain of single-use plastic bags accumulated by consumers to the gut-churning soup of plastic particles twice the size of Texas floating in the North Pacific, "Bag it" takes us where we don't want to go. Yet, director Suzan Beraza deftly uses humor, top-notch graphics and an engaging narrator/protagonist to entertain as she informs – no mean feat. "Bag It" is an important film. There is no higher compliment.
First Tuesday Salon The Rose Theatre October 5 7:20pm The Social Network Opening on Friday at the Rose, this salon promises an interesting conversation about social media and its impact. Every individual, each business and organization has wrestled with their stance on social media- embrace, resist, ignore, celebrate, pursue- each has its own unique consequence. Lets talk more following the film which stars Justin Timberlake and Jesse Eisenberg. Check out this great article in Vanity Fair here or visit their website: The Social Network.
Global Lens 10/2/10 10am My Tehran For Sale In this riveting, insider's perspective on life in Iran's capital city, Marzieh—a terminally ill actress— wearily relates her desperate quest for political asylum through a series of interviews with an unsympathetic government official. Set against the backdrop of Tehran's thriving arts culture, and framed through a series of artful and dramatic flashback sequences, poet-turned-filmmaker Granaz Moussavi boldly registers the trials of a modern woman struggling to flourish in Iran's contemporary political climate.
One of Our Remarkable Guests: Our film alumni, Tracy Rector, made it possible for us to host Bunky Echo Hawk, Pawnee & Yakima tribal member, and performance artist for our Awards Gala on Saturday Night. Serenaded by The Bruce Cowan Quartet featuring Joel Levy, Bunky created a painting titled "The Only Warrior at the Port Townsend Film Festival." Ordinarily Bunky auctions his paintings while they are still wet. But in this case, he has given permission for us keep the painting for awhile and then put together a silent aution later in the year.
Thanks, Bunky!
Will update the website soon, with photos, new ideas and opportunities to get involved.
Janette Force, tired but happy Exec Director with PTFF
September 15, 2010
In this issue:
At Last- Festival Program for 2010 Most Dangerous Man In America All Star Panel Bunky Echohawk & Louie Gong join us for 11th annual festival Global Lens Begins This Saturday 9/18/10 Special Screening 10/3/10 for Food Coop Education Library Amnesty
Its ALIVE!! And it is in two places at once! Here on our PTFF website, there is a complete description of all the information for our 2010 festival. On the website for The Leader, there is a digital version of the beautiful program that they publish and distribute on our behalf. That program includes their award winning ads that support the publication. Thanks, especially, to Marian Roh for her tireless efforts behind the scene at the Leader to bring this wonderful document to life. Click here.
The Most Dangerous Man in America: Daniel Ellsberg & the Pentagon Papers
Thanks, again, to The Leader and The Peninsula Daily News for supporting the screening fee for this important film, we will be welcoming this remarkable documentary at The Uptown Theatre on Saturday, with a discussion following.
This conversation will be moderated by award winning documentary filmmaker, Paul Stekler, from the University of Texas Austin. Stekler joins the editors of both regional papers, Fred Obee and John Brewer. Brewer worked for many years at the NY Times. In addition, Rich Riski, local journalism professor, bring us into a conversation about the vital importance of nourishing a watchdog media culture. In an age of Wiki-leaks and an increasingly skeptical public, this dialog is an essential aspect of democracy.
Don't miss it! 12:30p Uptown Theatre 9/25/10 One screening only, available to PTFF passholders.
Screening sponsored by Jefferson County Democrats Native Artists Attending PTFF
In 2009 the winner of PTFF Best Feature Length Documentary film was March Point, from LongHouse Media. This year we are proud to be presenting two short films from the same remarkable production team; Unreserved: The Work of Louie Gong and Bunky Echohawk. Both films bring us a closer look at unique and passionate artists. PTFF has just learned that both Louie Gong and Bunky Echohawk will be attending our festival. Watch the PTFF Daily Newsletters thru out the festival weekend to learn where you might encounter these talented individuals.
Global Lens Returns
Its time to begin our Saturday morning film series, Global Lens, bringing international independent film voices to students and devoted followers. On Saturday, September 18th 10am at the Rose Theatre, we will open the Fall/Winter season with Masquerades, Arabic w/ English subtitles. After working for much of his life as a gardener in his dusty Algerian village, Mounir dreams of improving his family's fortune and gaining a measure of respect by marrying off his narcoleptic sister, Rym, to a "real gentleman."
Film Presentation: Home
October 3, 12pm The Rose Theatre
Free for Food Co-op members. Home was premiered in L.A. on 2009 and depicts both the beauty of the planet and describes the scope of the damage done by human activity. A panel discussion afterwards will discuss climate change issues as well as The Food Co-op's new carbon offsets program. Come to the film and think about how our community can participate in the 350.org 10.10.10 Work Party global climate solutions activity.
Click here to watch the movie.
And now, a word from our librarian:
"Film Amnesty" article... As an example, last week the case for the PTFF 2009 short "The Violin Maker" came back to the office —with no DVD inside! Whoever borrowed it didn't bother to write their name and phone number on the library sign-out sheet, so we have no way of tracking it down. And until we find it, this wonderful film about local craftsman Doug Yule is simply unavailable to everyone.
(if this sounds too snippy, then just skip it...) (Got it, film borrowers??)
More soon, thanks to all of you for your thirst for film, your support of community enrichment and your artistic curiosity that keeps us all on our toes!
See you at the movies,
Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFI dba Port Townsend Film Festival
September 1, 2010
The Truth about Passes First Tuesday- GET LOW 9/7/10 Library Amnesty Paddling to Quilcene 9/2/10 Fumiko Hayashida, Honored Guest to PTFF 2010
PTFF Passes for the Next Decade: All Venues, all the time!
One Up & Four Up passes are good for any venue, including the Special Evening with Dyan Cannon. We will have 315 seats at the Uptown Theatre, first come first served, so be in line early with your pass for this rare opportunity to chat with Ms Cannon & Robert Horton following the screening of her Academy Award nominated role in Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice.
Yes, this is a change from the original announcement of these smaller priced passes. PTFF is committed to growth and change, that includes listening to our patrons and responding with revised policy. We have also reduced the announced price of rush tickets from $12 to $10. All venues will sell whatever seats are available just before the screening begins. And since most of our films screen twice, you will have more than one opportunity for those bargain seats. Four Up passes can be shared with another person, so two people can see two films or one person can see four- you get the idea. Remember, every pass includes your year around membership to PTFF, supporting our educational programs, use of our remarkable film library and discounts at participating businesses.
First Tuesday Salon September 7th 7:20 pm
Get Low Staring Robert Duvall, Lucas Black, Sissy Spacek and Bill Murray
In truth, director Aaron Schneider's Depression-era fable has about a novella's worth of story stretched to fill a feature-length film, and, at times, you can feel the padding. But since some of that padding is wonderful bits of character acting from two actors at the peak of their game, you don't mind one bit. But most of the meandering is worth it, because it gives two of the best character actors in the business the chance to strut their stuff.
Duvall bleeds authenticity in nearly every role, and he embeds these layers of menace, regret, humor and warmth underneath Bush's crusty exterior, revealing each only when necessary. And his climactic speech is truly a thing of beauty. Join us on Tuesday for a conversation about what works in this film and what left you scratching your head. AND, we will tell you lots of news about our upcoming 11th Annual PT Film Festival featuring over 50 representatives of films from around the world.
PTFF Library Amnesty!
One of the year-round benefits of being a PTFF member is the privilege of checking out videos and DVDs from our library of previous Festival films and other films of note. But not everything checked out makes it back to the PTFF office! As a result we have some unfortunate gaps in our collection—including some Festival audience favorites we'd love to make available again.
If you've found a PTFF tape or DVD hiding on your shelves—or you've had it for so long you're embarrassed to return it—just drop it off at our office in the Mount Baker Block. There are no overdue fines, you can remain anonymous, and we won't ask any questions! We'd just like to be reunited with our old friends, so we can continue to share them with all PTFF members.
Paddling to Quilcene September 2, 2010 7pm with PRIZES and John Lockwood of Pygmy Kayak One more film for our fans at the Quilcene Community Center, 2009 Audience Favorite Award from our festival, Paddle to Seattle Directed by JJ Kelly & Josh Thomas
"The idea of Paddle to Seattle may sound a bit contrived, two dudes build their own kayaks and then paddle the 1200-mile North American Inside Passage from Alaska to Seattle. But from the moment this documentary starts, it's clear that it will not watch as slow as the 3-miles-an-hour, 15-miles-a-day pace that the main characters paddle. The two buddies make so many of the hardships in the movie a playful learning experience, from deciding on a title to weathering the hospital-inducing "dirty turkey squirts," that you get lost in the journey.
The friends open themselves to the local customs and foods they encounter along the trip, from eating Ludefisk in a Norwegian fishing community to attempting to eat a half gallon of ice cream in one sitting with a local kayaker they befriend.
We won't ruin the movie by attempting to describe any scenes in specific detail. We will say that if you enjoy sea kayaking and are looking for a good buddy movie, this fills the niche. If you need more of an endorsement, Paddler Magazine called Paddle to Seattle "80 minutes of the best feature film about paddling produced in the last decade."
What kind of PRIZES? The Wooden Boat Festival is coming up on September 10th, we will have some product and passes to give away. WOW! Lucky Quilcene!
PTFF Welcomes Fumiko Hayashida; the Woman Behind the Symbol
More special guests on our growing list for PTFF 2010 on September 24, 2010 ! We are honored to welcome both Lucy Ostrander, filmmaker and the subject of her short documentary, Ms. Fumiko Hayashida .
The first screening of this wonderful film takes place at the Peter Simpson Free Cinema, in the American Legion Hall on Friday morning at 9am. We hope our community and our schools will embrace this rare opportunity to honor and understand our local history and the role of the Japanese Americans in our region during World War II.
This film will be part of a 99 minute program entitled "Transitions" that includes 7 short films. Following the screening we will have many of the filmmakers present for questions and comments. This program also includes two local film makers.
Its not too late to join the cast and crew for PTFF 2010, just call our office at 360-379-1333 or sign up here.
Looking forward to celebrating independent film and community with all of you,
Janette Force, Executive Director for PTFF
August 18, 2010
We announce our Special Guest for 11th Annual PT Film Festival The Terribly Difficult Clues Explained Big Joy Project Short Video Competition Tom Shadyac brings his new documentary September 24th The Rose Theatre Celebrates Stewart Stern and Sally Fields October 17th
DYAN CANNON WILL BE THE SPECIAL GUEST AT THE PORT TOWNSEND FILM FESTIVAL
Port Townsend Film Festival is delighted to announce Dyan Cannon as our Special Guest at the 11th annual PT Film Festival, from September 24 through the 26 2010. On Saturday night at 6:30pm at the Broughton Uptown Theatre, Ms. Cannon will be interviewed by Robert Horton following a screening of "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice," in which she received Academy Award and Golden Globe nominations for Best Actress in this film. Admission for passholders only.
We are also pleased to offer a public interview with Dyan Cannon at 2:00pm, on Saturday, September 25 as a part of the festival's Interviews on Taylor St. She will also speak with students at Port Townsend High School & Jefferson Community School on Friday morning.
Our special guest is a Washington native, born in Tacoma. Ms. Cannon has enjoyed nearly fifty years in the entertainment industry. After "Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice." she went on to appear opposite Warren Beatty, Julie Christie and James Mason in "Heaven Can Wait." This performance earned her a Golden Globe Award and a second Oscar nomination for Best Supporting Actress, and she continues her work on stage, screen and television. Her trademark curly blond tresses are iconic.
Known for her frequent appearances at L.A. Lakers basketball games, she uses her celebrity many to benefit charitable organizations that include animal rights, Special Olympics and protecting young women- Children of the Night.
Those Dastardly Clues
Many thanks to Donn Trethaway and Robert Force for their prodigious research and imaginations.
Two American kids, doin' the best they can" is a line from the John Mellencamp song, Jack and Diane, her first name.
Doin' the best they can, two American kids singing songs of fame what do you do when the song's about you and no one remembers your name?
Her brother is David Freisen, the jazz saxophone player, whose early efforts she did not appreciate, but later changed her opinion. Adolphe Sax invented the instrument.
He tootled the horn, to his sister's scorn, who would often give him the shoulder. But now she's a fan, Adolphe is her man, and his honking has grown so much bolder
She was Miss West Seattle in 1955. That year Chevy was the first of the "fin car" era. Alki Point is in West Seattle.
In a Chevy with fins (so nice to ride in) Queen of the inland sea She braves all the waves and accepts accolades pointing out alkies with glee
Bean Town is Boston, home of The Celitcs, arch rivals of the L A Lakers who just beat the Celtics in the NBA finals. She has often been televised sitting next to Magic Johnson at the L A Lakers games.
Bean town's a mean town no Mudville joy for her She thought her team was #1 Now even magic has no fun another year of grrrr..
Archibald Leach is Cary Grant's real name and her husband for a few years.
A few years short of the 7-year itch She gave her marital preach T'was good news for some But unfortunate for one As she removed the blood-sucking leech
Canon and Fugue, etc.. (charge of the light brigade)
Fierce as a forty pounder (right out of a Kipling tale) We've given clues left We've given clues right Solving it now can't fail
Well, only three folks guessed Dyan's identity. The winning guess came from Terrence Knight & Jessica Dillon of Olympia, who went right to the web and purchased their passes so they can join us for the photo op of the festival! What are YOU waiting for?
Big Joy is looking for YOU!
The Big Joy Project is a multimedia venture focused on the life and work of James Broughton, who pioneered the marriage of film and poetry way back in the 1950's, long before music and poetry videos. And now in his honor, The Big Joy Project is holding its very first poetry video competition!
Find a James Broughton poem you love and turn it into a short video (under 4:00) using animation, montage, film, photographs, music, spoken word, special effects, or whatever. The best Big Joy poetry videos will be featured on our James Broughton YouTube channel, and they may even find their way into the Big Joy feature film now in production! PRIZES for the Big Joy poetry video competition include:
Adobe Creative Suite 5: Master Collection (a $2,700 value)
Questions? Call or e-mail Stephen Silha at (206) 567-4363, [email protected] or Leo Schuman at [email protected]. PTFF is proud to be presenting the trailer for this new Tom Shadyac brings his new documentary "I AM" to PTFF 11!
Such an honor to welcome this film, only the second screening since it was released at the Telluride Mountain Festival back in March. "The Shift is Hitting the Fan" proclaims the poster, a beautiful montage ala' Chuck Close, of faces forming the continents on the globe. The film presents the inner dialog of a man who had already made his mark in Hollywood with such diverse films as "Evan Almighty" and "Bruce Almighty".
Check out his website: here.
Sally, "Sybil" and Stewart Coming to the Rose Theatre
Academy Award and Emmy Award-winning actress Sally Field, and Emmy Award-winning screenwriter Stewart Stern will appear at the Rose Theatre Sunday, October 17 for a special showing of their 1976 television movie "Sybil." Stern will introduce the movie, telling the story of how he created the screenplay from the popular non-fiction book, and both guests will take questions following the show. Rocky Friedman, owner of the Rose, said that "this is a rare opportunity to understand and appreciate the collaborative, creative process between author and actor."
Tickets, at $40 per person, include popcorn, drinks, catered dessert by Mirabelle of Port Townsend, and go on sale at the Rose Saturday, August 21 at 2:30, and online here. The event on October 17 will take place from noon to 5:00 p.m.
So, How's that for a star studded newsletter? Stay tuned for more marvels!
Warm regards,
Janette August 11, 2010 Newsletter
In this issue:
The Final Clues for our Special Gues The Red Baron Comes to Quilcene World Premiers for PTFF Volunteers R US
The Final Clues for our Special Guest
Ok, movie hounds, here are your final clues to the mystery of our Special Guest for the 11th annual Port Townsend Film Festival September 24, 25 & 26, 2010. No, it is not Tom Hanks, Shirley MacLaine or Mickey Rooney. Remember, the first guess with the correct identity that arrives in our office by email, snail mail or carrier pigeon gets their own photo op with this legend of the silver screen. Be sure to include the word "Contest" in the subject of the email, on the envelope or tag on the pigeon. Ready?? Start thinking!
A few years short of the 7-year itch She gave her marital preach T'was good news for some But unfortunate for one As she removed the blood-sucking leech
Fierce as a forty pounder (right out of a Kipling tale) We've given clues left We've given clues right Solving it now can't fail
Just wait, the next time you open this note, the truth will be revealed! The Red Baron Comes to Quilcene!
Our outreach program to introduce independent films to a wider audience continues this Thursday, August 12th at 7pm. Please join us at the Quilcene Community Center for a screeners' review of this film: "Baron Manfred von Richthofen is the most feared and celebrated pilot of the German air force in World War I. To him and his companions, air combats are events of sporty nature, technical challenge and honourable acting, ignoring the terrible extent of war. But after falling in love with the nurse Käte, Manfred realizes he is only used for propaganda means. Caught between his disgust for the war, and the responsibility for his fighter wing, von Richthofen sets out to fly again." Check out this trailer here.
World Premiers for PTFF
This year we have a remarkable assortment of films from around the world, some classics and the treasured first time screenings. Gabriel Diamond makes his directorial debut with the film, "Less: Losing is Everything." A number of members of the cast and crew will be joining us to celebrate this touching look at loss and grief and how we begin the true healing journey…Click here.
A Border Story takes us to the hot expanse of desert between Mexico and Arizona, where lives are lost in the continued struggle for a brighter future in the North. The film was a World Premiere when submitted to us and has since opened at the Tribeca Film Festival to great reviews. Click here.
What kind of volunteer would you like to be??
You could be an usher in a theatre, you could staff one of our legendary parties (wow, you could be a PENGUIN!? Well, there is a line for that gig, but you can try) help manage the outdoor movie or even count ballots for Audience favourites. There is truly an endless list of opportunities to make this celebration hum. Today we received an email that began, "I have worked at Sundance for the last 6 years and I have been hearing great things about your festival in Port Townsend…" Go on line and sign up!! Right here. Stay tuned, Janette Force for PTFF 360-379-1333
August 4, 2010 Newsletter
In this issue:
10 Reasons to Buy Your Pass Now
Guess the Guest Clues
Obselidia, a film for PTFF 2010
A Rare Opportunity to see Movies FREE
The Rakers are coming!
Starting with the Obvious
Reasons to Buy a Pass:
1. Unlimited films for 3 full days & support PTFF!!
2. New perspectives and ideas & support PTFF
3. Dinner on Friday night with friends on straw bales 4. Remarkable conversations while waiting for movies
5. Filmmakers from all over the planet & support PTFF
6. Bragging rights when those filmmakers are famous
7. Gala Awards celebration Saturday night with film clips & prizes announced from our jury awards
8. Use of over 1,000 films in the PTFF library not available anywhere else!
9. Discounts at The Rose Theatre & Pane d'Amore all year round
10. Making this quirky film festival possible in our little corner of the world- for our whole community!
The Next Round of Clues for "Guess the Guest"
The second decade of PTFF brings TWO clues for guessing the identity of our Special Guest, who will grace our festival September 24-26. So, what a lot of complaining about really hard clues last week! And many guesses of Warren Beatty. Well this next round is a wee bit simpler but still tricky. When you cannot google, you must reason.
In a Chevy with fins (so nice to ride in) Queen of the inland sea She braves all the waves and accepts accolades pointing out alkies with glee
Bean town's a mean town no Mudville joy for her She thought her team was #1 Now even magic has no fun another year of grrrr.. Again, email your answer to: [email protected] and write "Contest" in the subject line and give this your best shot. Or come to the office or send it by carrier pigeon. Who will be coming to add star power this year?
A Rare Opportunity to get into the Movies FREE!
For the first time, we are seeking volunteer projectionists for the Rose and Rosebud venues during PTFF. You will be trained in DVD and Beta projection. Experience is not necessary, but please be a quick learner. Must be available for work during the entire festival, Sep. 24-26, plus several hours during the day on the 23rd for training. Please be a problem solver, be patient and energetic, be able to think on your feet and comfortable sitting alone in a dark room watching movies for hours on end. You will work one 8-hour shift per day and must be in the projection booth at all times when a film is playing, which means you'll get to see lots of movies for free! We are particularly interested in people who would consider continuing this position with PTFF in years to come. Love of film is a plus! Contact [email protected] to arrange an interview.
Obselidia
Variety magazine writes: "Gentle, intelligent, gorgeously made and utterly eccentric, "Obselidia" exists in its own little world entirely apart from any hitherto detected categories of American independent filmmaking. Centered upon a man devoted to all manner of things that are close to becoming obsolete or extinct, Scottish-born writer-director Diane Bell's debut feature is the cinematic equivalent of a one- of-a-kind object you might find in a curiosity shop -- it might be impossible to determine its true worth, but if it strikes your fancy, you'll snap it up." Read more here
PTFF is proud to welcome Obselidia to our 2010 festival!
The Rakers are Coming!!
On Friday evening, Sept. 24, our free film on Taylor Street, thanks to our generous sponsor Kitsap Bank, will be "American Graffiti." That classic George Lucas homage to 1962 would not be complete without the cars that made it an icon, so we called The Rakers, one of the oldest classic car clubs in Washington State. To kick off our weekend of saluting American cultural icons, what better way than to have ALL of our filmmakers arrive for Opening Ceremonies to walk the red carpet at Haller Fountain in classic cars? Of course, our Special Guest will arrive that way as well, culminating our celebration by cutting the ceremonial strip of film and opening our 11th Annual Port Townsend Film Festival. Cars will be available for viewing on Washington Street, along with live music and dancing, with everyone welcome to join in! Dinner will be available for Festival Pass Holders, so you might want to consider buying a pass for 3 days of unlimited films and dinner! Such a deal!
Curious about The Rakers? Click here.
That's it until next weekSpread the word about the marvels of PTFF and send us money. OK?
Janette
August is about to Arrive Newsletter 2010
In this Issue:
Guess the Guest First Tuesday Salon: The Kids Are Alright Volunteers Needed Now Bringing the Festival Home Ritrovo Teaches us about Hospitality Smile 'til It Hurts
GUESS THE GUEST! The Second Decade! Following tradition, it is time to begin your quest for the identity of the Special Guest for the 11th annual Port Townsend Film Festival. And since it is our second decade, we are going to give you TWO clues! There will be 6 clues released, two each Wednesday on July 28th, August 4th and August 11th.
The announcement and the winner will be revealed on August 18th. The winner will have their photo taken with our Special Guest! In years gone by, the object of our guessing has been Tony Curtis, Cloris Leachman, Jane Powell and Peter Fonda, to name just a few. Okay, ready?
Clue #1 Doin' the best they can, two American kids singing songs of fame what do you do when the song's about you and no one remembers your name?
Clue #2 He tootled the horn, to his sister's scorn, who would often give him the shoulder. But now she's a fan, Adolphe is her man, and his honking has grown so much bolder.
So, how to enter this contest? By email [email protected], write "Contest" in the subject line) Please include your Guest Guess, mailing address, daytime phone & email address. The winner will be chosen by random drawing from the first correct answers.
See you at the festival, September 24, 25, 26 2010 Did you buy your pass yet? Has your neighbor bought theirs??
First Tuesday Salon 7:20pm August 3rd at The Rose
A married couple looks at kids, fatherhood, sex and jealousy all over a glass of red wine. At last, we can laugh and identify with what makes families THE SAME instead of focusing on our differences. There will be a marvellous conversation following the film, about our own experiences and those we have simply witnessed, because no matter what anyone tells you, we all have a family, invented or otherwise (more).
Join the Cast & Crew of PTFF for Festival 2010 August 18 7pm & 29 2pm This is the face of a happy cast member, helping us to organize the streets of Paris during last year's "An American in Paris." Since you are part of the family of PTFF, why not join the cast? So, maybe you are waiting to hear what we will be showing on Friday at the outdoor movie on Taylor St, to see how much fun it might be. Well, we will be hosting an opportunity to find out AND sign up for your dream job on two different days. Wednesday, August 18th at 7pm & Sunday afternoon August 29th at 2pm right here in our office 211 Taylor St, 3rd floor! We will be announcing the outdoor movies, screening a special preview to introduce you to one or two treasures from the program this year and then introduce our managers so you can SIGN UP right there. Yup, Career Day for PTFF is born. You can sign up on line here and come to the Career Day to be scheduled at the venue of your choice. Call the office for further details.
Want another way to volunteer?
Have you considered inviting a filmmaker to stay with you? We are always looking for accommodations for film folk, visiting festival workers, and guests. Ask anyone who has opened their homes in the past- it is a wonderful way to see the festival from the inside and make a connection with the arts that is up close and personal. Friendships have flourished, projects hatched and hospitality brings our little corner of the world into a brighter focus. Interested? Call 360-379-1333
Ritrovo: A meeting place; the passage in a symphony; a quiet refuge…
For us at PTFF, Ritrovo means 'a business that believes in our independent film passion and wants to feed it- figuratively and literally.' As Italian food importers, Ron and Ilyse have continually sought after Italian artisan foods and shared them with the rest of us. When they came to PTFF as sponsors last year, we were able to put their logo on the shirts worn by all venue managers- wearing Ritrovo on our chests! And they brought a chef to create remarkable food for our filmmakers, shared Truffle Salt with many of us and just generally elevated our pallets.
This year they have stepped forward and offered to sponsor a Ritrovo for the filmmakers, and a most delicious film on Taylor St for our Sunday night enjoyment. We are honoured to have their support, delighted to share their sense of hospitality and if you would like to know more, visit their website and watch a wonderful video of their latest triumph! Congrats to Mt. Townsend Creamery and Ritrovo on this Gold Medal collaboration!! More information. Smile 'til It Hurts: The UP WITH PEOPLE Story
Here is a peak into the program, one film at a time. Two of the characters we meet in the film live in Bellingham. We hope to host them at PTFF 2010:
SMILE 'TIL IT HURTS is director Lee Storey's début feature documentary. After learning that her husband was secretly a former member of Up With People, curiosity reigned and she was compelled to begin her journey into filmmaking. Read this fascinating Director's Statement here.
You will be hearing from us more and more in the weeks to come. Feel free to call with questions, ideas, comments. Looking forward to a film feast with all of you,
Janette Force Executive Director for PTFF
June 29th PTFF News
In this issue
Inspiration
A new venue: Peter Simpson Free Cinema
Four-Up & One-Up Passes just got better
First Tuesday, July 6th with your Mermaid
Clyde McDade is looking for actors
2880 Fast Film is back I have been inspired by a bank
One of our producing sponsors, First Federal, sent their promotional package to me that included this statement:
"Together we can create the change we want to see. Rely on each other. And inspire others to do the same. Let's be gutsy. Generous and visionary. Let's change our community for the better. Let's be passionate. Relentless. Fearless. Simply put, we're so much more when we partner together."
OK! Sign me up! We at PTFF are honored to announce that all of our volunteers will be sporting "Cast and Crew" t-shirts, thanks to First Federal. And we will aspire to passion & vision as we craft the upcoming celebration of art and community called the Port Townsend Film Festival.
PTFF is proud to announce the receipt of a grant from the Port Townsend Arts Commission
After 10 years of offering a venue, The Drop-In Theatre, that screens films for the public at no charge during our festival each September, PTFF is honoring our late Artistic Director, Peter Simpson, by renaming this venue "The Peter Simpson Free Cinema." Thanks to the Port Townsend Art Commission, a local artist will create two banners with the work of sculptor, Les Cox, who created a wire portrait of Peter some time ago. Along with the new title, this silhouette will be printed on weatherproof fabric and displayed on a wooden frame outside of the American Legion, the new home of this cinematic gift to our community. This change in venue allows for more seating and an improved projection quality. Simpson's legacy of art and commitment to community is suitably represented by this theatre, which will screen short and full-length festival films from 9am until 6pm on Saturday and Sunday, September 25th & 26th, 2010.
PTFF is grateful for this opportunity to increase knowledge of independent film and continue the inspiration that Peter Simpson shared with our community for so many years. A public celebration of this grant is planned for later this summer.
New Passes are now even BETTER
And speaking of new ways to include more folk in the PTFF experience, our newest pass levels, The Four-Up & The One-Up just got even more valuable. These passes will be good for admission at any venue you choose- The Uptown (Broughton) Theatre, the Rose Theatre, The Rosebud, or Pope Marine Park. You may share the Four-Up with someone else- two folks can attend two films and still have a membership that will get you the use of our library all year long. And, of course, all those other legendary benefits. Want more films? Just go to our Hospitality Suite and upgrade!
First Tuesday Salon July 6, 2010 Evening Showing 7pm Rose Theatre
Ben Dorf, for the Tribecca Film Festival writes: "Played with remarkable conviction by Colin Farrell, Syracuse and his mermaid love come to life in a web of fantasy that only Neil Jordan and the distinctive cinematography of Christopher Doyle can deliver. Fusing whimsy with the harsh realities of a broken, working-class family in a small Irish fishing village,Ondine is an ethereal treat that transports you across the ocean and into another world."
Join fellow PTFF members for a conversation about mythology and what a significant role it plays in our story telling. Ondine is a German folk tale of a water creature. The selkie is an Irish myth of mermaids. This film weaves these together with Greek myths of the underworld - oh, and there is an impossibly cute child in a wheelchair. But somehow you just fall for all of it, giving over to the fairytale myth.
Transportation Captain for PTFF is launching his film project
If you have ever had the pleasure of being transported during the PT Film Festival, your driver was probably Clyde McDade. His continued devotion to film has blossomed and his screenplay is ready for shooting! Here is his first call for talent:
Dates: May 12-20, 2011 Location: Port Townsend, WA. Times: 8 p.m. - 1 a.m. each night. (Times and dates may change according to City of Port Townsend requirements.)
Requirements:
1. Walk and run. 2. Some hand-to-hand combat (Choreographed of course!)
Clyde McDade Filmmaker "Division" 253.632.7261 [email protected]
2880 Fast Film Returns to PTFF Lights, Camera, Action!
Your favorite fast film contest is back: Film 2880 will once again unfold with Port Townsend Film Festival! That's right. You still have 2,880 minutes (48hours) to make your film, and then it will be screened to our great audience as the closing act of PTFF 2010. Film 2880, which has been exciting PTFF audiences since 2002, is now one pillar of PTFF's new StoryMakers project. PTFF StoryMakers encourages and supports story creation talent of all ages in our region. We really need to get stories told and heard which bring us all a new measure of understanding, insight and empathy. And we need to have more fun - which is what Film 2880 is all about.
Click here to get all of the details.
Last but not least, what kind of panel discussions would be interesting? Let us know, so we can try to put that together.
Back to the movies,
Janette Force email
June PTFF News
First Tuesday Salon June 1st with Animators Print to Benefit Educational Programs Our First Pass Winner is Announced tonight! Volunteer before the Festival Begins Shrek: the Final Chapter 6/1/2010 7:20pm Its time again for our potluck movie experience, PTFF First Tuesday Salon, with Rocky Friedman, Janette Force and our guests this month- REAL animators! Learn more about the art & science of film with Nick Siefried, animation student at The Art Institute of Seattle and veteran film animator, Terry Tennesen who trained at the Rhode Island School of Design. Let's talk about the craft of animation, the experience of the actors in this art form and, well, anything that's on your mind. Get an update on our upcoming PTFF film festival, educational programs and new opportunities to get involved. See you at the movies.
Thanks to the generosity of David Conklin & Linda Townsend, our Mother's Day Matinee of The Cats of Mirikitani offered one more opportunity to support our educational outreach program, StoryMakers. David and Linda donated a marvellous print of Jimmy Mirikitani's painting entitled, "White Tiger." In a note from the winning bidders, Dr. Molly Force & her husband, Sam, they write; “We are thrilled, this piece will remind us of art, passion, unexpected friendships and being open to experiencing the world in service of others”. There is a wonderful print still available for bid, this one is signed by Mr. Mirikitani. Please stop by our office 211 Taylor St or call us 360-379-1333 for more information.
New ways to Volunteer- get your hours early by working at our Farmer's Market Booth in Chimacum on Sunday or Port Ludlow on Fridays. We need enthusiastic film festival fans to sell raffle tickets, passes and just generally tell our story. Every hour you work will earn cash credit toward the film festival pass of your choice up to the full Festival Pass, an invitation to our Cast & Crew movie screening on the Thursday night of festival weekend (Sept 24-26 2010), and a great insight into the year round programs at PTFF. For more information, contact Carrie Rice here. May 19, 2010
☆ Stars are dim, Lena Horne is no longer with us ☆ Global Lens May 22 Leo's Room ☆ Cats of Mirikitani did just fine in the Bread Truck ☆ 2880- Fast Film is back at the festival ☆ First Tuesday Salon June 1st Will it be Shrek or Babies?
PTFF was greatly saddened by the loss of Lena Horne. When we chose to honor her with a screening of her important film, "Cabin In the Sky" as part of our 10 year anniversary celebration in 2009, Ms. Horne was unable to attend. Instead, we were fortunate to have her daughter, Gail Buckley, speak on behalf of her mother's remarkable career and history in opening doors in the film business that had been firmly closed to black performers. Her grace and courage were an inspiration for many. Here is one of many tributes that have been offered this past week.
Global Lens Saturday May 22, 2010 10am The Rosebud Cinema
The final film of this series until September, "Leo's Room" is a feature from Uruguay. In the heart of Montevideo, the affable but secretly troubled Leo wraps himself in the comfort of his small rented room, unmotivated to finish his college thesis or find a job, and content with infrequent visits from his girlfriend. After their six-month relationship ends, Leo begins to break out of his shell. More info here.
Admission is $5, free to students with student ID
Cats in a Bread Truck
Linda Hattendorf met with hundreds of students and many happy filmlovers last week, as we presented her award winning film, The Cats of Mirikitani at the Rose Theatre, the Quilcene Community Center and Peninsula College in Port Angeles. She visited schools in Port Townsend, Chimacum and Quilcene, with a brief appearance on Bainbrige Island as well. We are grateful for her patience with so many talks, lectures, screenings and public events. This was the launch for StoryMakers, the PTFF educational outreach that will build media literacy and curiosity about independent filmmaking. Thanks to: The Bartlett House, Pane d'Amore, Jefferson Community School, Jeff Beck from PT High School video program (see photo), Quilcene School District, Quilcene Community Center & Bob Rosen, Chimacum Schools, Peninsula College, Bruce Hattendorf, Max Grover, Cynthia Sears & Frank Buxton, David Conklin, Linda Townsend, Robert Force, and everyone who made this marvel possible.
PS It is Jimmy Mirikitani's 90th birthday in June. We are all invited to New York for his party.
Film 2880 Like filming on the edge? Good news! Our popular fast film competition "Film 2880" (the number of minutes in 48 hrs) is back! Stay tuned for details, get out your camera and start assembling your crew.
First Tuesday Salon at The Rose Theatre June 1st 7pm
Join fellow members of PTFF on Tuesday evening for a conversation about, well, maybe large green folk (Shrek 3) and maybe about babies (Babies). The joy of First Tuesday is not knowing what will be showing, but anticipation of discussing a film with the audience. Last month our conversation following "Ajami" explored the consequences of enemies living as neighbors in Jaffa, Israel, audience members shared their own experiences in the Middle East and asked questions of one another.
Janette Force for PTFF
April 27, 2010
Cats of Mirikitani Matinee, May 9th, Mother's Day @1pm
First Tuesday Salon, May 4th @ 7pm
Global Lens, Saturday, May 1st @ 10 am
Inviting Alex Chadwick???
PTFF Membership Benefit #45297 First Tuesday Salon May 4th The Rose Theatre @ 7 pm with Rocky, Janette & Co
Pleased and proud to announce the latest in our growing benefit package. Beginning May 4th and the first Tuesday of each month, PTFF card carrying members will be welcomed to $1 discounted ticket to The Rose Theatre, introduced to a film by Rocky Friedman and engage following the film with PTFF guests to discuss the film we have just enjoyed together. All that and 50¢ off your popcorn! What's not to like? This month, the film we will share is "Ajami", nominated this year for an Oscar in Best Foreign Language Feature. Click here for more information.
Cats of Mirikitani Matinee 1 pm May 9th, 2010 Mother's Day
WE are helping you plan a wonderful day for that most special woman in your life that you never forget but sometimes wish you could- just kidding. I am a mother, I have a mother and sometimes we just run out of ideas for celebrating Mother's Day. No worries, PTFF has filled that gap with an encore screening of an all time favorite movie, plus the award winning filmmaker who created it. Don't miss this chance to see a tale of courage, hope and the voice of the artist, bid on a gorgeous print signed by Jimmy Mirikitani and discuss the film with cinematographer & director, Linda Hattendorf. She is bringing HER mother! Call for tickets at 360-379- 1333 or Quimper Sound at 360-385-2454.
And then we are loading Linda into a Pane d'Amore bread truck with Max, our new projector from Max Grover and taking her to Quilcene. Curious? Click here for more.
Global Lens Rosebud Cinema Sat, May 1st @ 10 am $5 or Free with Student ID
BECLOUD (VAHO), dir. Alejandro Gerber, Bicecci, Mexico, 2009 After years of separation, three boyhood friends reunite in Mexico City to overcome a tragedy that scarred their neighborhood and childhood, years before. Want to know more? Click here.
Building PTFF 2010
So, here is a look at what goes on "behind the curtain at PTFF." Phone rings, it's our traveling programmer, Jane Julian, with a great new idea. She saw a program at Telluride called "Interviews 50¢" hosted by a favorite NPR great, Alex Chadwick. In the tradition of Lucy in the comic strip "Peanuts", Alex sets up a card table with a sign and conducts interviews. He has a film crew working while he does this, they edit and screen the results the next day. One of their favorite interviews at Telluride was with our own PT favorite, Jim Whittaker. Here is the promo trailer.
So, in order to bring this wonderful program to our festival, we need some folks who are willing to sponsor Alex and his crew with real $$. Come on, all you NPR fans, don't you miss Alex's voice in the mornings? He does not miss getting up at 3:30am, instead he and his intrepid production staff have taken to the road, conducting interviews where ever their card table finds them. Can't you imagine the set-up next to Galatea Fountain? Call the PTFF office 360-379-1333 and YOU could be the host for Alex Chadwick. This is how the festival comes together, one little jewel at a time.
Happy Spring!
Janette Force, Executive Director Port Townsend Film Institute dba Port Townsend Film Festival
Springing Forward! April-not-Fool 2010
• Oscar Night for PTFF was a hit!
• Cats of Mirikitani on Mothers Day Matinee at the Rose Theatre
• Moveable Fest or Cats in a Bread Truck
• First Tuesday Salon at The Rose Theatre: your newest benefit as a PTFF member
The Envelope Please …
Oscar 2010 was a celebration of independent film. The Academy honored The Hurt Locker with six awards, reminding everyone that the power in cinema is not limited to big budget films. Our celebration carried that same message. Over 100 PTFF fans toasted film with champagne at the American Legion Hall during an evening of fun and generosity. PTFF gathered more than $6,000 to support our programs.
Many thanks to more than 50 generous donors, board members, volunteers and local businesses who supported this event. Gayle Moore and Carrie Rice laboured tirelessly to create a wonderful event. Thanks to Mary Hildt for her auction expertise; Mae West for her humour; Bonnie Christophersen for making the American Legion sparkle; Kitty Knapp for herding cats; Daryl & Lynn Hrenko who can nail & schlep; and all our volunteers who drape, sweep, pour and just generally make things happen. We have one more great party under our belts.
Take Your Mother to the Movies for Mother's Day!!
x The Cats of Mirikitani:
May 9, 2010 Mothers Day Matinee, 1 p.m. The Rose Theatre, Port Townsend Tickets: $15
Tickets are available at Quimper Sound, PTFF Offices or at the theatre door. Call 360-379-1333 for details, reservations and tickets.
PTFF is delighted to invite you to join us at the Rose Theatre on Mothers Day, May 9 at 1 p.m. for The Cats of Mirikitani, a celebration of courage and hope, with the filmmaker, Linda Hattendorf. Following the film, Linda will answer questions and tell us about how her life and Jimmy Mirikitani’s have changed since she created this film.
Thanks to the generosity of Max Grover, we will have a print signed by Mr. Mirikitani that we will be offering in a Silent Auction, to support our StoryMakers educational outreach.
Our First Moveable Fest, or
Cats in a Bread Truck
It all begins on the road to Quilcene! We are launching our outreach education program, StoryMakers, with Linda Hattendorf. Linda will speak to students in Chimacum, Quilcene and Port Townsend, thanks to Pane d'Amore (for the truck), Max Grover (for the projector), and YOU, our PTFF supporters, for helping fund this opportunity. Stay tuned for photos, as our mission to share independent film and filmmakers hits the road.
x
http://panedamore.com/
First Tuesday Salon at The Rose Theatre
PTFF is proud to announce our newest benefit for PTFF members. On the evening of May 4th, 2010, we will launch our “First Tuesday Salon” at The Rose Theatre. On the first Tuesday of every month, card carrying current members of PTFF will receive $1 discount on their ticket to The Rose and 50¢ off of the price of their popcorn. The feature film will be introduced by bon vivant & local impresario Rocky Friedman, along with PTFF’s own, Janette Force.
When the lights come up and the credits end, you begin to think about what it was that the film stirred in you. Without breaking the spell that the filmmakers have created, we want to open that dialog which is often lost as one exits the theatre. Were you delighted? Horrified? Curious? Moved to x
action? We will host a moderated conversation about the film, including guest experts or unique voices that may enhance our exploration and discussion. Please join us in this wonderful partnership with the Rose Theatre as we explore why film matters in our lives. Oh, and just to make sure you have a great time, there will be prizes.
We look forward to building the PTFF experience year round!
There's plenty of news around the corner, so stay tuned. And, if you would rather not receive this newsletter, pls hit REPLY and say, No Thanks!
Janette Force, Executive Director
The Port Townsend Film Institute DBA Port Townsend Film Festival
360-379-1333
March 2010
As a thank you to our long time donors and an opportunity to introduce our mission to a wider audience, we packed the Rose Theatre on opening night of "Up in the Air" and followed it with a reception honoring our last decade and kicking off the new one.
Aside from forgetting to introduce dedicated Board of Directors member, Linda Maguire, it was a marvelous evening. We raised over $8,000 to support our vision of bringing independent film to other communities in the region, celebrated devoted sponsors and welcomed our new board members, Margo Bowers and Jane Champion.
Huge gratitude to Rocky Friedman, Kitty Knapp, Ritrovo Italian Food magicians, Pane d'Amore, Eisenbeis Condominiums (you should BUY one!), Joyce Morton, Cherel Lopez, Monica MickHager, Terry Tenneson, Carrie Rice and many others.
PTFFoo Huh?
This is a new opportunity to volunteer year round. Aside from film, our signature here at PTFF is parties, which have become legendary. And as any Penguin (our devoted food service crew from the VIP reception) can tell you, it is hard, delightful work. We are all about FOOD.
So, what is needed is a year-round crew of catering types who can step in and make these events smooth and elegant. Joining "The Foo" will bring you endless gratitude from PTFF, great experience with event planning, quirky friends who seem to like these things and volunteer hours toward your festival pass.
Interested? Sign up on here and check "Event Planning" under pre-festival activities. The Foo could be you.
PTFF all year round
With a nod to NPR, could you consider making a recurring gift to PTFF each month? For $45 per month, your annual contribution would be over $500 and you would be the proud owner of a Preferred Seating Pass. And, at the $100 level, you could be a PRODUCER! Even $10 a month makes us smile. Building an endowment for scholarships in film making and taking independent films to regional schools are possibilities with your support. Thanks for your interest in our mission.
Janette Force Executive Director, PTFF
PTFF Supports Desmond Tutu Documentary
Port Townsend Film Festival is proud to announce the presentation of a grant to Karen Hayes' film project, "The Foolishness of God: Desmond Tutu and Forgiveness" (http://www.tutuandforgivenessfilm.com). We have awarded her $2,500 in post-production services with our sponsor, Modern Digital in Seattle.
The film’s basic question is simple, but its answer is not.
When faced with abuse, oppression, and violence, should we respond — as might feel just — by taking an “eye for an eye” and a “tooth for a tooth”? Or should we turn the other cheek and trust that nonviolence and forgiveness will eventually lead to peace?
What could be more impossible than forgiving the policeman, who, authorized by the government, murdered your child, then walked free?
Why should you forgive them? And what does such forgiveness mean?
The documentary feature "The Foolishness of God" explores these questions through the eyes of Nobel Peace Laureate Desmond Tutu, Archbishop Emeritus of Southern Africa.
Says Hayes, "I am so grateful to Modern Digital and to the Port Townsend Film Festival for this valuable grant of post- production services. It will be a great help to the film."
Hayes has been given unique access to Archbishop Desmond Tutu and has filmed his life and work internationally over several years. The film is in post-production. Her screenplays include a commission by the California Department of Education on the life of African American Aviatrix Willa Brown, who trained some of the original Tuskegee airmen. Her feature screenplays are GREENS, a feature about a Black soldier in moral crisis, and BLACK MADONNA, the story of a young woman rapper who comes of age on tour in Poland. She holds a M.F.A. in Film and Television Production from UCLA.
If post-production work proceeds on schedule, it may well be that Port Townsend Film Festival will be among the first audiences to appreciate this remarkable documentary of Archbishop Tutu's heroic legacy. If you are interested in supporting this project, contact: Karen Hayes P.O. Box 6721 Altadena, CA 91003 email
"The Cats of Mirikitani" Returns to The Rose Theatre for Mother's Day Matinee
By popular demand, we are bringing back Linda Hattendorf, creator of one of the most beloved films we have shown at PTFF: "The Cats of Mirikitani." (click).
Celebrate Mother's Day, May 9th, 2010, with brunch at The Silverwater, then join us for the film and a conversation with Hattendorf following the film. Stay tuned for details; this is your "Save the Date" notice.
Penultimate note:
Our wonderful friend Ellen Poitevan left a marvelous collection of vintage film stars on 'cigarette cards'. Her sister, Penny Vartersian, is interested in finding someone who shares Poiteven's appreciation for this lost art form. These treasures can be seen at "April Fool & Penny, too!" at 729 Water St., or call 385-3438
One last note:
Our search for a better technology has shown us that we are in need of a MAC or two, preferably newer than a G4. As our volunteers begin work in the office on records, promotion and design it has become clear we need to have work stations that do not involve sitting on someone else’s lap -- not as appealing as it may sound. If you have something you think might add to our efficiency, give us a call at 379-1333 and we will chat. Thanks in advance.
The 18th Annual Film Festival -September 15, 16 and 17, 2017 211 Taylor Street, Suite 401A • PORT TOWNSEND, WA 98368 • 360-379-1333 • 360-379-O198 (fax) Email Us © 2015 PTFF