Presents shortsfest

April 5-10, 2016

The world’s premier & Oscar® qualifying international showcase of short film

Wheeler Opera House IN ASPEN | Crystal Theatre IN CARBONDALE

@aspenfilm ASPENFILM.ORG | #SHORTSFEST16 The Aspen Times | Monday, July 20, 2015 | A3 Biking and building a legacy across the U.S. Scott Condon another route leader. The four route leaders The Aspen Times take turns driving a 15-passenger van, which pulls a trailer. All 30 participants get to bring It’s tough averaging 75 miles per day on a one piece of luggage. They also transport road bicycle while enduring the heat of the sleeping and camping gear and coolers for Oklahoma plains and tackling the challenges food. Rider-workers can ride in the van of the Colorado mountains. when they are sick or nursing an injury, but Throw in eight hours of hard labor on they typically are expected to ride. While 75 home-construction sites during the o days, miles is the daily average on the road, Trent and you’ve got the ingredients for building said, they have covered up to 113 miles in one quad and calf muscles and strong character. day on this trip. Thirty young men and women stopped Reaching Colorado and seeing the snow- in Basalt and Carbondale on Thursday and capped mountains was a highlight of the Friday to help on Habitat for Humanity cycling trip, Trent said. The group received a Roaring Fork projects while pedaling their special greeting from Mother Nature at the way across the country. They are a team from top of Independence Pass. the nonprofit organization Bike and Build. “A giant hailstorm comes in and starts All of the participants are between ages 19 pelting us,” she said. and 26, with many of them in college and The storm came on so fast and furious that others doing good deeds before beginning JEREMY WALLACE/THE ASPEN TIMES some team members had to be shuttled o their careers. Andrew Norton of Raleigh, N.C., works on an aordable-housing project in Basalt on the summit to Aspen. They were cheated out The team departed from Charleston, Thursday. He is part of a crew of 30 people from Bike and Build that worked on Habitat of the classic descent, so they were hauled South Carolina, on Memorial Day. They plan for Humanity Roaring Fork projects in Basalt and Carbondale. back to the summit by van the following day. to cover the 4,233 miles to Santa Cruz, Cali- Trent’s biography on the Bike and Build fornia, by Aug. 14. “It’s been amazing — the best thing I’ve The experience over the past couple of website shows that her group had covered To make their feat even more amazing, the ever done,” she said. years will inspire her to volunteer more 2,451 of 4,233 miles as of Thursday on Day 30 participants raised about $150,000 prior Alex Ciolko, 24, of Bualo, New York, is throughout her life, she said. 53 of an 83-day trip. It also was their 15th to the trip to construct an entire home for one of four “route leaders” on the team. She Each of the Bike and Build teams under- day on a construction project. They have a needy family in Fountain. Each member completed her master’s degree in biomed- takes a “blitz build” project where they con- enjoyed three rest days on the trip with no must raise at least $4,500 before the start of ical engineering this year and is preparing centrate for about five or so days on a specific work and no pedaling. the trip. to start her career, so she decided to spend house. For this team, that project was near This is Trent’s second coast-to-coast tour Amana Carson, 20, of West Chester, the summer helping less fortunate people. Colorado Springs. That meant they were with Bike and Build. She picked this route Pennsylvania, and a student at St. Joseph’s She previously participated on a Bike and out of the saddle of their bikes and their legs because it goes through Salt Lake City, where University, said she had volunteered on Build project that involved cycling from Bar were well-rested when they tackled the east her parents met nearly 30 years ago. The ex- Habitat for Humanity projects before but Harbor, Maine, to New York City. Now she’s side of Independence Pass on Tuesday. perience has been so rewarding, she said, that had never really cycled prior to this summer. helping the coast-to-coast team stay orga- It was a great team-building experience she took a construction job with the commu- She decided it would be a nice to bike across nized and on track as a leader. to make sure everyone reached the sum- nity-service organization AmeriCorps. She America while volunteering her labor on “I like being able to give back and not just mit, said Ellie Trent, 24, a recent graduate aordable-housing projects be on a vacation,” Ciolko said. from the University of North Carolina and LEGACY, A8 Aspen Film hosts ‘Southpaw’ sneak previews The Aspen Times | Tuesday, December 23, 2014 | A3 Andrew Travers Friday, will play in two sneak previews there. Humbled, Billy goes back to the THE DEDICATED Justin Kauflin The Aspen Times at the Isis Theater on Tuesday. old neighborhood (in this case, Hell’s As “Southpaw” opens, Gyllenhaal’s Kitchen), toils under the guidance of a The veteran commentator Larry Billy Hope is on top of the world, win- gru trainer (in this case, a dependably Merchant said of the eternally corrupt ning his 43rd straight fight, defending dignified Forest Whitaker) and goes on yet captivating prizefighting business, his light-heavyweight title, going home a vision quest for his belt and his family. ‘Life Itself,’ about Ebert, at Academy Screenings JAZZ PIANIST LOSES A MENTOR, “Nothing will kill boxing, and nothing to his mansion and to his wife (Ra- Conventional, yes. But with Gyl- can save it.” chel McAdams) and his cute daugh- lenhaal in the lead and Fuqua at the Andrew Travers nurse clearing his airway with a IF YOU GO … The same might be said for boxing ter (Oona Laurene) and handing out helm, working from a script by “Sons of The Aspen Times suction tube. Afterward, Ebert What: “Life Itself” at Academy movies. Even the good ones, such as designer watches to his entourage. But Anarchy” creator Kurt Sutter, “South- celebrates the footage in a note CARRIES ON A LEGACY AND COMES TO ASPEN Antoine Fuqua’s new “Southpaw,” are he soon loses it all after a scu¥e at a paw” does some magic in and out of the Screenings riddled with cliche and melodrama. But charity event turns tragic. ring. And if you’re a sucker for training Filmmaker Steve James never to James, writing, “I’m happy When: Today, 5:30 p.m. with the help of an inspiring training He drinks and does drugs. Banks take montages (and who isn’t?), the one here got the chance to conduct a we got a great thing that nobody Where: Wheeler Opera House by ANDREW TRAVERS montage or two and a captivating lead his house and his cars. The government backed by a new Eminem song will performance, such as Jake Gyllenhaal’s takes his daughter. And his shady man- knock you out. traditional interview with Roger ever sees.” Tickets: Wheeler box office, in “Southpaw,” a by-the-numbers pugi- ager, played by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson Whipping tried-and-true genre sto- Ebert while making “Life Itself,” But, James said, Ebert and www.aspenshowtix.com listic underdog story can still beat the (a bankrupt boxing promoter in real ries into fighting shape is what Fuqua COURTESY PHOTOa documentary about the popu- Chaz were hands-off about what YOURodds and GUIDEleave you cheering. TO ENTERTAINMENTlife), ditches Hope IN for THE a rival. VALLEY Jakewww.theaspentimes.com Gyllenhaal appears in “Southpaw.” The · SeptemberIsis Theater will 26-28, 2014 More info: www.aspenfilm.org The film, which opens nationwide You can guess where it goes from ‘SOUTHPAW’, A7 host two free preview screenings of the new lm Tuesday. lar film critic. the final cut of “Life Itself,” The movie, which plays to- based on Ebert’s 2011 memoir of Justin Kauflin with jazz great Clark Terry, who ON THE day at Aspen Film’s Academy the same name, would look like. University of Colorado-Boul- mentored Kauflin and died last month. Screenings, opens with Ebert in During early discussions about der gathering helped feed the PRE-PERFORMANCE ENJOY DINNER a hospital room in the midst of the project, Ebert formally gave curiosity that brought him into the 11-year battle with cancer up any editorial control of it, journalism and fueled his prolif- PRIX FIXE BEFORE THE SHOW! that had already taken his lower though James still encouraged ic career as a critic. 5:30 - 6:30 pm jaw and his ability to speak and him to be a part of the creative “The great appeal of it was . would eventually kill him. James process. that he could go there and he weekend 3-course prix fixe,$45 . is there with him and Ebert’s “I think about the process didn’t have to talk about mov- ROAD . On the patio, in the dining room wife, Chaz. Ebert rarely makes it more as making a film with ies,” James said. “His breadth of Country French Bistro . A la carte menu out of the hospital in the course COURTESY PHOTO someone than on someone,” knowledge carried him far and with all evening of the film, which flashes back to “Life Itself,” a documentary about lm critic Roger Ebert, plays today James said. “I think he took it wide, and he was a great talker. YOUR GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT IN THE VALLEY www.theaspentimes.com · January 2-4, 2015 outline Ebert’s colorful life. at Aspen Film’s Academy Screenings at the Wheeler Opera House. The to heart and felt free to offer The conference is full of great THE PLACE TO b The sections in the hospital — lm series runs through Jan. 2. his thoughts and ideas. I never talk, and nobody was better than by turns funny and heartbreak- thought of it as just my film.” Roger.” NIGHT&DAY ing — transform the film from James didn’t begin the project Roger, and what he had to say, Ebert’s long-standing con- But “Life Itself” is no puff -Bill Husted, Denver Post 525 E. COOPER AVENUE ASPEN 970.429.8284 BBSKITCHEN.COM a by-the-numbers profile into a with the intention of making was contained in the emails nection to Colorado — the piece. stunning look at death and dy- himself a part of the film, he because we never got a chance Conference on World Affairs, As the editor of the student JAMES ing, which celebrates life in the said in an interview last week. to do the formal sit-down in- in Boulder, which he attended paper at the University of Il- process. But with Ebert’s health declin- terview we had planned to do annually for more than 40 years linois at Urbana-Champaign Ebert’s candid reflections at ing, he was left with little choice. once he was free and clear of the — became a platform for Ebert in the early 1960s, Ebert is the end of his life come largely “Roger passed away in the hospital.” as a thinker and public intellec- described by one colleague as weekend in the form of emails to James. course of making the film,” Ebert is remarkably un- tual on topics beyond film. “Life “tactless, egotistical, merciless Their email exchanges are the James said. “And when he did, protective of his image in the Itself” uses the irreverent con- and a showboat.” The film gives SURLS narrative voice of much of the I realized that a substantial movie. A memorable, if hard to ference as a window into Ebert’s film. part of both my relationship to watch, scene early on shows a wide range of interests. The EBERT, A10

AVH projects $100M Ranchers, farmers could ‘THE JOURNEY’ in 2015 patient revenue lease land in midvalley TO SCREEN AT Rick Carroll projected revenue of at $50.8 million in revenue, Staff report “Any proposals received from potential Aspen Times least $100 million, said and it’s been gradual- lessees not in attendance will not be con- BEFORE THERE WERE SCHOOL helped the world celebrate Terry in the final records, he says, “non-stop” since Terry hospital spokeswoman ly climbing since then. Farmers and ranchers will have a sidered,” said a statement from the open PROGRAMS FOR JAZZ, instruction months of his life. Terry died in February. died to keep his mentor — and his mentor’s SHORTSFEST Aspen Valley Hospital Ginny Dyche. 2010 saw $53.6 million chance to lease 156 acres of land held by space program. books on playing it, and a professional A few days after Terry’s funeral in Harlem, ebullient spirit — around the young pianist is gearing up for its most A number of factors are in outpatient revenue; in Pitkin County Open Space and Trails in Bids will be considered for everything class of musicians teaching it, there was Kauflin reflected on his mentor’s rich life as he prepares for some big steps in his own lucrative year yet in terms driving the uptick in pa- 2011 it was $57.8 million; the mid-Roaring Fork Valley. from livestock grazing operations to gar- Clark Terry. and incalculable impact on jazz. career and the honor of carrying on Terry’s of patient revenue, based tient revenue, said Hospi- 2012 accounted for $59.9 The open space program will lease six dens. Construction of a greenhouse will e exuberant trumpet player, from the “It’s been tough but also you can’t help legacy. on its budget projections tal CEO Dan Bonk. Chief million and 2013 saw $63.1 parcels of various sizes on the Glassier be considered, if proposed. Two granaries, end of World War II into the st century, but be grateful for everything,” Kauflin told On the heels of the popular run of “Keep for 2015. among them are return million. The hospital is Open Space in Emma. The land is located a large metal storage building and the took on students and helped them find their me. “It was a beautiful life. It was great to On Keepin’ On” — which won plaudits Earlier this month, the patients and added services projecting $68.3 million o˜ Hooks Spur Road. The two largest historic Glassier barn will be available for own voices. Among his first pupils were see all the people out there to honor Clark. I on the film festival circuit, including the hospital’s board of direc- and an increased volume in in outpatient revenue in parcels are 94.2 and 44.5 acres. The four leasing. music-legends-to-be like Miles Davis and actually felt happy for him. … At the end of Best Documentary prize at Aspen Filmfest tors approved a budget outpatient traœc, he said. 2014. smaller parcels are 10.3, 3.5, 3 and 0.6 Parties can bid to lease individual or Quincy Jones. His last was Justin Kauflin. folks’ lives, they tend to feel forgotten. But in October — Kauflin released the album by ANDREW TRAVERS that projects $100 million As a whole, the hospital “A lot of things are done acres. multiple lease parcels. The proposals are Terry’s relationship with Kauflin, for Clark to have been surrounded by love “Dedication” in January. He comes to the The many in patient revenue next industry is seeing more day on an outpatient basis now, People interested in placing a bid must due no later than 3 p.m. Jan. 23. They can an ascendant -year-old pianist, for the last six months, I thank God that was Wheeler Opera House March  in support year. That accounts for surgeries and fewer over- even surgery,” Bonk said. attend a mandatory meeting and site visit be emailed to open space program land was chronicled in the acclaimed  able to happen before he left, when he was of the record, four days after an encore $27.7 million in inpatient night stays among patients, Inpatient revenue is pro- Jan. 7 at 10 a.m. on the Glassier proper- oœcer Paul Holsinger at paul.holsinger@ documentary “Keep On Keepin’ On,” which able to appreciate it.” presentation of “Keep On Keepin’ On” at the let the world know about Kauflin, and Kauflin has been listening to Terry’s historic Aspen theater. revenue and $72.3 million and Aspen Valley Hospital jected to total $25.8 mil- ty. It will give potential lessees a feel for pitkincounty.com or they can be hand de- in outpatient monies. data reflect that. lion this year, and it’s been the property and let them get answers livered to the third-floor reception desk of FACES It’s the first time in the In 2009, AVH’s outpa- from open space and trails sta˜ to general the program in the Pitkin County Annex hospital’s history that it’s tient care accounted for AVH, A10 questions. Building, 530 E. Main St., in Aspen. SCULPTOR JAMES SURLS AND Maitland Lottimer to film the installation e product of their initial partnership, “e COURTESY PHOTO ASPENTIMES.COM/WEEKLY from filmmaker  A TEAM OF MEN IN HARD HATS of “Tree and ree Flowers.” In a mini-van, Journey,” will screen on the opening night of COMMITTED TO TELLING loaded one of his pieces onto a flatbed truck they followed it on the -wheeler out of the Aspen Shortsfest. By the end of this year, the * * outside of his Carbondale studio last spring, mountains and south to Houston, strapping Lottimers expect to finish a feature-length DANIEL JUNGE beginning its journey to a busy intersection GoPro cameras to the truck and speeding documentary on Surls. in downtown Houston. As the -plus ton, ahead of it to film it barreling across western “I just want to be working with people -foot tall “Tree and ree Flowers” went vistas and, eventually, past a “Welcome to who I trust their creative bent,” Surls told ROAD TRIP ALERT: Miró in Denver B6 · WHAT’S HAPPENINGThe Aspen B2 Times | Friday, April 10, 2015 | B5 off on the road to Texas, Surls also began a Texas” sign. me in the twang he’s held on to from his east journey of his own with two young Colorado ey then captured Surls at the dedication Texas boyhood. “ese guys are so young current exhibition upcoming exhibition upcoming exhibition THE ASPEN FILM STORY filmmakers. in April of last year, alongside the mayor and (Maitland is , Austin ), I don’t think multiples Sweet, Sweet Life beyond stasis e acclaimed -year-old artist, who local dignitaries. they’ve reached full throttle. ey’re still new works by The Photographic Works new works by has shown work in the Smithsonian, the Once the piece was up and Surls returned trying to get the oxygen and gas burning at a Dave Durrance of John Denver Andrea Wallace & Rick Dailey Battle Pork Open until October 3 OPENING RECEPTION ARTIST RECEPTION happy holidays & seasons greetings. FIVE CHEFS Guggenheim, and in public spaces across the home, he asked the brothers to keep filming. good level. I feel comfortable with that, with Patton-Malott Gallery Friday, October 10, 5-7 pm Tuesday, October 21, 5-7 pm U.S., had partnered with brothers Austin and A year later, their cameras are still rolling. growing with them.” arts center Gideon Gartner Gallery Patton-Malott Gallery from our families, to you & yours... cooking PORK FIVE WAYS Public Invited. Refreshments Provided. Public Invited. Refreshments Provided. 14 JANUARY 2015 @ 7PM image detail: Orbits, 2014 On view Oct. 10 th - 11th, 14th - 17th On view Oct. 10th -29th iimage detail: The Braid, Andrea Wallace 330 7th street in GWS AndersonRanch Anderson Ranch arts center | andersonranch.org | 970/923-3181 | 5263 Owl Creek Rd Snowmass Village, CO | just 15 minutes from Aspen five beverages matching 970.230.9234 $57.63per thepullmangws.com The Aspen Times | Friday, July 4, 2014 | B5 PHOTO COURTESY OF TRINE FILMS * * ASPENTIMES.COM/WEEKLY  Flying Michael Keaton discusses High ‘Birdman’ ANDREW TRAVERS MUSIC Henry’sYOUR happening GUIDE TO B7ENTERTAINMENT · WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE VALLEY B2 www.theaspentimes.com · April 10-12, 2015

Absurdly Short ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT EDITOR learn, create & be inspired in 2015!

Shortsfest film tackles an Aspen artist’s art carnival Happy WORKSHOP REGISTRATION OPENS TODAY YOUR GUIDE TO ENTERTAINMENT IN THE VALLEY www.theaspentimes.com · December 26-28, 2014 weekend SUMMER WORKSHOPS Andrew Travers dreamed of a Dancing Three-Legged Alligator, she imag-imag- prejudice and tolerance. On the surface, though, it’s one of CERAMICS | PHOTOGRAPHY & NEW MEDIA | PAINTING and DRAWING | DIGITAL FABRICATION | PRINTMAKING The Aspen Times ined wood-burned images on a woman’s body in an old- the more child-friendly art shows you’ll find. arts center Newfrom Year style, shooting-gallery boardwalk game, an interactive CoCo-- “Each piece has a lot of psychological meaning, even SCULPTURE | FURNITURE DESIGN & WOODWORKING | WOODTURNING | CHILDREN’S & TEEN WORKSHOPS Pamela Joseph’s long-running and ever-evolving trav- ney Island ball toss, and she needed the sounds of carnival though my granddaughter can walk in there,” Joseph said. Anderson Ranch view the digital catalog at andersonranch.org | Call 970/923-3181 for more information eling multimedia art show “Sideshow of the Absurd” begs barkers and calliope music and women in peril and crying “She’s not going to get the sexual innuendo.” the question, “How did she come up with this stu?” children. But she didn’t know how to make any of of it. “Sideshow of the Absurd” was staged in its first iteration AndersonRanch arts center 970/923-3181 | 5263 Owl Creek Rd Snowmass Village, CO | andersonranch.org A pair of filmmakers have attempted to answer that “It’s better to be ignorant going into these things,” Joseph in a 2,500-square-foot gallery at the Boulder Museum of 970.925.3414 www.aspentimes.com question, profiling the Aspen-based artist and her o- said. “If you really knew what you were getting into, you Contemporary Art in 2001. It’s since been exhibited in 10 kilter creations in “Pamela Joseph’s Sideshow of the Ab- just wouldn’t do it.” dierent locations, as word of mouth about it has spread surd,” which premieres Saturday at Shortsfest. With the help of locals such as Tim Murray (“He’s like around the U.S. The version captured in the new film is The interactive exhibition, inspired by carnivals and Rube Goldberg!”), Joseph jerry-rigged windshield wipers to an immersive, interactive show nearly three times the size freak shows, is as nostalgic as it is haunting — by turns initially create the moving parts of “Sideshow.” She learned of the original, hosted by the Colorado Springs Fine Arts wickedly amusing, creepy, whimsical and disturbing. new process, such as carving wood. She collected antiques Center in 2013. weekend Joseph grew up in Connecticut, where her grandparents’ and the detritus of carnivals past, like merry-go-round uni-uni- Joseph compares the show to an accordion, growing in farm was regularly rented out to traveling circuses and corns, and repurposed them for the show. As the concept some spaces, shrinking in others. freak shows. The imagery of those spectacles from the grew, she consulted with her partner Robert Brinker, mul-mul- Aspen Film, the nonprofit that presents Shortsfest, also 1940s stuck with her. Born in Joseph’s West Buttermilk timedia and tech experts around the U.S. and a crew she’s had a role in making the film. The organization’s co-dico-di-- studio, “Sideshow of the Absurd” uses the familiar imagery dubbed her “art carnies” to create her spectacular sculptur-sculptur- rector, Laura Thielen, introduced Joseph to filmmakers of old-time traveling circuses to explore themes that have al installation. The biggest challenge was an Alien Fortune Tina Defelisiantonio and Jane C. Wagner, whose previous interested her throughout her career, including feminine Teller piece, which used digital technology to project a vid-vid- projects have tacked social-justice issues, LGBT rights and empowerment and exploitation. eo performance by Joseph herself as the fortune teller onto sustainable energy. Joseph trusted the pair to capture the “When I went to the sideshows as a child, these people a carved mannequin head. When a visitor places a palm on essence of her “Sideshow” and her life. had tremendous dignity,” she recalled recently over coee the alien’s hand, Joseph’s ghostly visage spouts absurd for-for- “I like the films they’ve been doing, where it’s the human at Victoria’s Espresso & Wine Bar. “They had more dignity tunes taken from world leaders and self-help books. aspect and it’s kind of edgy, which the ‘Sideshow’ is, too,” than a lot of people in the audience.” “That took years from the concept to being able to Joseph said. In 1998, as she was contemplating a shift in artistic do what I wanted to do,” she explained. “It was a huge After spending her career speaking through her art, focus, she began drawing the sideshow scenes from her exploration.” however, Joseph was wary of opening up about her personperson-- memory. She diligently researched carnivals, along with the culcul-- al life with the documentarians. The film draws a parallel “I realized I wanted to work in a lot of dierent medi- tural baggage and archetypes behind their traditions. between Joseph’s divorce from her first husband and her ART ums,” she explained. “So the sideshow became a conceit “It’s all based on historical fact,” she said. “That’s been a art’s focus on feminine empowerment. for me, about my feelings about society, the environment, fascinating aspect of it.” “They always wanted to put in more personal things,” animals — it opened up a huge door for me.” The complexly rendered and multi-faceted pieces delve Carnies She wanted spinning wheels and flashing lights, she into the subjugation of women, extinction of species, JOSEPH, B6

COURTESY PHOTO ‘Pamela “Rudderless” is a musical drama that features Billy Crudup’s character’s band playing six full songs. Joseph’s I like the films they’ve been doing, where it’s Sideshow of the human aspect and it’s “kind of edgy, which the the Absurd’ ‘Sideshow’ is, too. looks through the ”Pamela Joseph William H. Macy at Shortsfest Artist 12 Years a Boy Richard Linklater’s ‘Boyhood’ at Academy Screenings director’s lens VISUAL ARTS A quick look at Slow Art Day B8 · WHAT’S HAPPENING B2

Andrew Travers longer working on a film than actors do, that they put in plays and writing. He’s been co-writing screenplays, in The Aspen Times much longer days, get paid far less and get blamed when partnership with writer-director Steven Schacter, dating 970/923-3181 5263 Owl Creek Road most anything goes wrong with a production. back to 1995’s “Above Suspicion.” Snowmass Village, CO William H. Macy has directed his first film in “Rudder- What drew him to get behind the camera, finally, was a He also has grown adept at photography since he took it andersonranch.org less.” The actor, 64, likens the experience to the Normandy curiosity about what it would feel like to tell a story with a up as a hobby after the first of his two daughters was born invasion or to being hit by a truck. He compares the logis- full arc rather than just focusing on his role in a film. in 2000. AndersonRanch tical boondoggles of the independent film to trying to paint “Acting by definition is tiny little bits,” he said. “We don’t “I thought, ‘I can compose a shot; these are good pic- with a 50-foot brush while 100 people hold it. worry about the world. We worry about the minutiae. You tures!’” he said. arts center PHOTOGRAPHY & NEW MEDIA | CERAMICS | PAINTING & DRAWING And yet, he says, he’s hooked on directing. do the scene that’s in front of you, with a very limited pur- Macy had been pushing another script and came close FURNITURE DESIGN & WOODWORKING | SCULPTURE | PRINTMAKING “I’m going to be candid: It’s all I want to do,” he said. to getting it made as director but gave DIGITAL FABRICATION | WOODTURNING | CHILDREN’S & TEENS That doesn’t mean giving up acting completely, he clar- up after its financing fell apart, twice, ifies — in fact, the ever-prolific actor has four movies due It was so out of my comfort zone, so out at the last minute. Then “Rudderless” out next year, along with a new season of his Showtime se- of my wheelhouse, so much work, and came along. ries, “Shameless.” But “Rudderless” is likely the beginning A musical drama, the script was

such intense work, that it shook up my system of contributions at deductible. any level Aspen Film is a 501(c)(3) non-profitA portion is tax organization. of a new phase for Macy — what he calls his “third act” — written by Je› Robison and Casey Have you Established in 1979, Aspenin which he’ll be behind Film the camera often. is one “ofin a delightful Colorado's way, and I haven’t feltmost so alive in active Twenter, of Oklahoma film City. When it arts organizations “It was so out of my comfort zone, so out of my wheel- years. reached Macy’s desk, he said, he was house, so much work, and such intense work, that it shook intrigued by its blend of drama, hu- registered up my system in a delightful way, and I haven’t felt so alive ” William H. Macy mor and music. in years,” he said. On directing his first film “It’s a significant story we’re telling,” for your The Oscar-nominated, Emmy-winning actor brings he said. “But with a lot of levity.” his directorial debut to Paepcke Auditorium on Saturday He worked on the script with summer and is internationallyfor a preview recognized screening presented by Aspen Film. The as view.a Thelaunching director, on the other hand, gets to tell pad the whole Robisonfor and Twenterfilmmakers for more than six months and got worldwide. From film premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival and is story. He gets to tell the audience where to sit, he gets to producer Keith Kjarval on board. They took a year to get it tentatively slated for an October theatrical release from make sure the joke is set up and the punch line lands prop- financed and then filmed it in 25 days in April 2013, when workshop? Paramount and Samuel Goldwyn. erly, and I wanted to do it myself after letting other people Macy had a break from “Shameless.” Through most of his career, Macy wasn’t interested in do it for years and years and years.” The film stars Billy Crudup as Sam, a man ravaged by directing. Though they’re revered as the artists of film, While he hasn’t ventured into directing movies previous- the presentation of newhe couldn’t help filmsbut notice that directors through spend months ly, he has threehad a taste of big-picture landmark creativity by directing festivals, MACmonthly Y, B8 "Aspen Film

MOVIES ‘Whiplash’ is worthwhile B7 · WHAT’S HAPPENING B2

learn, create &Presents" be inspired in 2015 screenings and complimentary education programs, Aspen Film offers

Happy WORKSHOP REGISTRATION OPENS JANUARY 2 SUMMER WORKSHOPS CERAMICS | PHOTOGRAPHY & NEW MEDIA | PAINTING and DRAWING | DIGITAL FABRICATION | PRINTMAKING

arts center New Year from SCULPTURE | FURNITURE DESIGN & WOODWORKING | WOODTURNING | CHILDREN’Sone & TEEN WORKSHOPS of the most enriching cultural experiences in our area. Anderson Ranch view the digital catalog at andersonranch.org | Call 970/923-3181 for more information

AndersonRanch arts center 970/923-3181 | 5263 Owl Creek Rd Snowmass Village, CO | andersonranch.org OUR WORK IS ONLY POSSIBLE JOIN US WITH THE SUPPORT OF Become a member of Aspen Film today to enjoy FILM LOVERS LIKE YOU. an array of benefits and exclusive access at the 25th Annual Aspen Shortsfest and year-round. Donor contributions support our mission to enlighten, enrich, educate, and entertain through film. Memberships begin at $150

For more information and to join contact 2 aspen filmNikki shortsfest Boxer, Director 2016 of FESTIVAL Development GUIDE 970.306.3662 [email protected] | | welcome

It gives me enormous pleasure to present the 25th installment of Aspen Shorts- fest! Shortsfest is one of the most cherished and respected film festivals in the As we embark on this milestone Aspen Shortsfest, it is my honor to welcome United States, with an international reputation for its devotion to filmmakers you to our magical home in the mountains. and film lovers alike.

For 25 years, Shortsfest has shone a much needed spotlight on a lesser known Culled from more than 3,200 submissions, the 56 films in our competitive art form, giving directors the screen time that often becomes a launching pad shorts programs represent 25 countries from around the globe and reveal an for successful filmmaking careers. As one of the premier short film festivals in incredibly eclectic array of approaches to storytelling and filmmaking. Along the world and an Oscar®-qualifier, we are proud to present another outstand- with films made by both emerging filmmakers and veterans alike, Shortsfest ing program thanks to the passion and dedication of the Shortsfest Program- offers audiences myriad unique opportunities to interact with some of the best ming team led by Aspen Film Artistic Director Maggie Mackay. Keeping in the filmmakers working today. spirit of Aspen Film’s founder Ellen Kohner Hunt’s vision, this lineup includes films that are, in a word, unforgettable. In an increasingly chaotic and confusing world, our universal stories are, like the single-root system of the aspen trees, what connect us all. In picking up Shortsfest and our organization’s work year-round is only possible through the where Shortsfest’s beloved 20-year veteran programmers Laura Thielen and strong support we receive from our community, donors, sponsors, volunteers, George Eldred left off, I hope this year’s lineup will offer a story for everyone. and board members, which continually humbles us. A special thank you to our lodging partners, who make it possible for us to bring more than 50 filmmakers from around the world to Aspen. This artist attendance and participation is one of the reasons that makes our festival so special. Maggie Mackay Artistic Director We are thrilled to return to our official host venues: the Wheeler Opera House in Aspen and Cystral Theatre in Carbondale. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly staff members or volunteers if you have any questions or special needs during your festival-going experience. I look forward to seeing familiar faces and meeting as many new film lovers as possible during Shortsfest.

On behalf of the Shortsfest team and everyone at Aspen Film, enjoy the Aspen Film Board of Trustees journey! Lee Rittvo, President Kim Master Gayle Embrey, Vice President Laurie Rosedale Loper Esther Pearlstone, Vice President Elexa Ruth Frankie Welfeld, Vice President Becky Steere With gratitude, David Marlow, Treasurer Sandy Tate Joyce Shenk, Secretary Nancy Wall John Thew Deborah Breen Howard Zucker Executive Director Ryan Brooks Mel Blumenthal, Trustee Emeritus Marilyn Hill Harper, M.D. Howard Gross, Trustee Emeritus Jay Israel Neil Karbank, Trustee Emeritus Jessica Latham

aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 3 how to fest

passes & tickets Venues ADMISSION TO THE 25 TH ASPEN SHORTSFEST CAN BE Screenings for the 25th Aspen Shortsfest are held at the ACCOMPLISHED USING A PASS OR A SINGLE TICKET: WHEELER OPERA HOUSE in Aspen (320 E. Hyman Ave.) and the CRYSTAL THEATRE in Carbondale (427 Main St.). The FILMMAKER LOUNGE is open daily to all pass holders from 10AM - Passes Tickets 5PM in the LIBRARY at the HOTEL JEROME (330 E. Main St.). Passes are available only to GENERAL ADMISSION tickets for most Shortsfest Programs are Please check the schedule inside for additional $15 EACH for your pick of the best available seat 15 minutes before Special Event, Special Programming, and Après Aspen Film Members at the the start of each screening. ASPEN FILM MEMBERS receive a 20% Screening locations. Producer Level and above. discount on single tickets for $12 EACH. The FAMILY FUN! program is $10 FOR ADULTS AND FREE TO BECOME A MEMBER FOR KIDS. All kids welcome to the show FREE of charge with a visit aspenfilm.org or call 970.306.3662. complimentary ticket issued by the Wheeler Box Office. VIP PASS WE STRONGLY RECOMMEND PURCHASING TICKETS Guaranteed reserved seat bearing your name IN ADVANCE through the Wheeler Opera House Box Office, for all screenings. 970.920.5770 and aspenshowtix.com for all shows. For CARBONDALE SHOWS, tickets can be purchased at PRIORITY PASS Bonfire Coffee, 33 Main St., Carbondale. Shortsfest Café Your pick of the best available seat for all MAWA’S KITCHEN will have fresh meal and snack options available for Tickets are also available for sale at the door at the screenings 30 minutes before the start of purchase before and between shows in the Wheeler Opera House lobby. each program. Wheeler Opera House before each Aspen screening and at the Crystal Theatre for Carbondale Screenings. Special Needs Rush Tickets If you have special needs covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act, FIVE MINUTES PRIOR TO THE START OF EACH SCREENING, please notify Aspen Film 970.925.6882. Aspen Film Staff Aspen Film will make any unfilled seats available for sale. John Thew Executive Director RUSH TICKETS ARE $15 EACH. Maggie Mackay Artistic Director ASPEN FILM MEMBERS RECEIVE A 20% DISCOUNT ON RUSH Nikki Boxer Director of Development Please arrive early. TICKETS. The rush line forms 45 minutes prior to each screening at In the event of a sell-out, Katie Shapiro Director of Marketing & Public Relations the Wheeler Opera House and Crystal Theatre. James Jefferies Program Coordinator/Programmer all unclaimed seats are released Regna Jones Education Coordinator 5 minutes before show time. Shawna Rahm Operations Support Caleb Ward Guest Services Manager PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO Special Thanks Sarah Poppitz Guest Services Associate CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. Kyle Miller Lounge Coordinator Aspen Film Volunteers Bonfire Coffee Terri Grob Bookkeeper for up to date Bryan Erickson IT Services Mawa’s Kitchen Polly Pollard Carbondale House Manager Mel Blumenthal information visit Ruth Tobias Program Guide Editor Paradise Bakery ASPENFILM.ORG Kelly Alford Graphic Design Red Butte Roasters

Manson Karbank Burke Legal Services Wheeler Opera House Staff and Volunteers

@aspenfilm 4 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE #SHORTSFEST16 shortsfest 2016 special events

Receptions, Après Screenings, and late night parties are all part of the festival experience. Please join us in celebrating great film with great conversation!

TUESDAY, APRIL 5 SUNDAY, APRIL 10 OPENING RECEPTION BREAKFAST AT THE FEST 6:30pm 11:30am Wheeler Opera House Lobby Wheeler Opera House Lobby Join us in kicking-off the 25th Aspen Shortsfest, before Shorts Program 1, Join Aspen Film board members, staff, filmmakers, and fellow festival goers for brunch before attending our with hors d’oeuvres, wine, and beer. Family Fun! program. Complimentary breakfast buffet, mimosas, and Bloody Marys provided. COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Hosted by: Aspen Film and The Aspen Times Hosted by: Aspen Film and Mawa’s Kitchen

APRIL 5, 6, 7, 10 SUNDAY, APRIL 10 Immediately following evening screening programs MILK & COOKIES APRÈS SCREENINGS 2:00pm The J Bar at the Hotel Jerome Wheeler Opera House Lobby Hang out with Aspen Film’s staff and with festival filmmakers from around the world as we Bring the whole family to enjoy complimentary milk and cookies immediately following our Family Fun! celebrate the day’s events during these late-night get-togethers. Food and beverage discounts screening. All kids welcome to the show FREE of charge with a complimentary ticket issued by the Wheeler available with your Aspen Shortsfest pass or ticket. Box Office. COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Hosted by: Aspen Film and the Hotel Jerome Hosted by: Aspen Film Cookies provided by: Paradise Bakery SUNDAY, APRIL 10 FRIDAY, APRIL 8 Immediately following Shorts Program 7 AWARDS DINNER 6:00pm APRÈS SCREENING AT THE REC ROOM Cooking School of Aspen The Rec Room 216 S. Monarch St. 515 E. Hopkins Ave. Celebrate the commencement of Shortsfest as our slate of prestigious prizes is presented to filmmakers. This Hang out with Aspen Film’s staff and festival filmmakers as we celebrate the day’s events at seated wine-dinner is open to the public. Tickets available for $75, call Aspen Film to reserve: 970.925.6882. Aspen’s newest late-night hot spot, The Rec Room. Complimentary grilled cheese sandwiches with Hosted by: Aspen Film and Cooking School of Aspen your Aspen Shortsfest pass or ticket. Join us as we spin the night away to music chosen by you from The Rec Room’s extensive vinyl LP collection. COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Hosted by: Aspen Film and The Rec Room shortsfest 2016 EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS SATURDAY, APRIL 9 Aspen Film’s free, valley-wide educational programs seek to expand world Immediately following Shorts Program 9 views, develop critical viewing skills, cultivate curiosity, and inspire creativity. Educational enrichment opportunities for students include films APRÈS SCREENING AT ERIC’S BAR in the classrooms, filmmakers in schools, attendance at festivals, Eric’s Bar Filmmaker Labs, and participation on the Shortsfest’s Youth Jury. 315 E. Hyman Ave. For more information contact Aspen Film at 970.925.6882. Challenge your fellow film lovers, Aspen Film staff, and festival filmmakers to rounds of pool and shuffleboard at one of Aspen favorite hang-outs. Eric’s Bar will provide a discounted drink menu for Shortsfest pass and ticket holders. COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Hosted by: Aspen Film and Eric’s Bar aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 5 shortsfest 2016 special programming

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 7 SATURDAY, APRIL 9 FRIDAY, APRIL 8 STOP ASKING PERMISSION AND FILMMAKER CONVERSATIONS TELL YOUR STORY: Noon – 2:00pm The Red Onion A conversation with Sean Baker 420 E. Cooper Ave. and BRIGHT IDEAS magazine Get a behind-the-scenes look into the creative process of guest NOON-2pm filmmakers from around the world at these lunch-time panel discussions. Chair 9 at The Little Nell COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC 675 E. Durant Ave. Hosted by: Aspen Film Celebrated director Sean Baker and producer Darren Dean (Snowbird, Tangerine, Prince of Broadway) sit down with BRIGHT IDEAS magazine’s Editor-in-Chief James Kaelan to talk about Baker and Dean’s latest short, THURSDAY, APRIL 7 Snowbird, world-premiering at Aspen Shortsfest and commissioned SEED&SPARK PRESENTS: by cutting-edge French fashion house Kenzo. Come join us for this inspirational conversation discussing everything from shooting films on CROWDFUNDING an iPhone to finding financing in the least likely of places. TO BUILD INDEPENDENCE COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Noon – 2:00pm Gonzo Gallery 625 E. Hyman Ave. Sean Baker Join Seed&Spark, the film industry’s most ground-breaking crowdfunding platform, exclusively created to support a rich community of independent filmmakers and storytellers, for this inspirational presentation and conversation. Seed&Spark’s Erica Anderson, Head of Crowdfunding & Education, will discuss everything from how to develop your funding campaign to reaching an audience you will have a lasting, flourishing, and direct relationship with. All dreamers welcome! COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Special Thanks to The Colorado Office of Film, Television, & Media

Darren Dean

6 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE shortsfest shortsfest 2016 awards jury

Aspen Shortsfest’s Jury recognizes films with the David Ansen was a movie critic for Newsweek from 1977 to 2008. following Oscar®-qualifying awards: He was the Artistic Director of the Los Angeles Film Festival from 2010 through 2014. He is currently the Lead Programmer of the Palm Springs BEST ANIMATION ($2,500) International Film Festival. He has written documentaries for TNT, BEST COMEDY ($2,500) HBO and PBS on Greta Garbo, Groucho Marx, Bette Davis, and Elizabeth Taylor and has written for The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, BEST DOCUMENTARY ($2,500) Entertainment Weekly, Interview, Cosmopolitan, and other publications. BEST DRAMA ($2,500) In the 1990s he served for eight years on the selection committee of the BEST SHORT SHORT ($1,000) New York Film Festival.

The Jury will award one film BEST STUDENT FILM ($1,000).

Shorstfest’s audiences determine the winners of the AUDIENCE Lisa Kennedy writes about popular culture, race, and gender – and AWARD ($500) and the AUDIENCE SPECIAL RECOGNITION. has for more than two decades. From 2003 to 2015 she was film critic for the Denver Post. In 2012, she added theater critic to her title. A member The YOUTH JURY AWARD ($500) is given to one film by local high of The National Society of Film Critics, she has been a juror for the school students. American Film Institute’s Top Movies, Film Independent’s Spirit Awards, and the Gotham Awards. She has also been a judge for the Pulitzer Prize The ELLEN AWARD named for Aspen Film’s Founder and former Execu- in criticism. Jurying for Aspen Shortsfest remains one of her favorite gigs. As she works on book and freelance projects, she continues to tive Director, Ellen Kohner Hunt, originated from an endowment raised review films as host of “Reaction Shot,” a weekly movie review show on by the community to annually award a film that embodies the spirit of denverpost.com. Aspen Film’s programming from 1976 to 1995. The 2016 Aspen Shortsfest Ellen Award Jurors are: Steve Alldredge, Linda Girvin, Gail Holstein, Ellen Alex Karpovsky has directed five feature-length films and numerous Kohner Hunt, and Lynda Palevsky. music videos. As an actor, he currently plays Ray Ploshansky in the HBO Seed&Spark will select one film that crowdfunded a portion of their comedy series Girls and has appeared in the last two films written and directed by the Coen Brothers — Inside Llewyn Davis and Hail, Caesar! budget to receive the SEED&SPARK AWARD, which includes $250 toward the winning filmmaker’s next Seed&Spark crowdfunding campaign (on campaigns of $7,500 or more), individual crowdfunding and audience-building consultation with Seed&Spark experts, and distribution on Seed&Spark’s streaming platform. shortsfest 2016 associate programmers

Mike Dougherty Angie Driscoll Brandon Harris James Jefferies Jenn Murphy Cedar Sherbert Craig Turpin Acquisitions Executive, Programmer Filmmaker/Critic/ Programmer/ Programmer Filmmaker/ Producer/Editor/ Radiant Films HotDocs; TIFF Professor Programming AFI FEST; LAFF Programmer Aspenite International/Director Coordinator, Aspen Film of Programming, Indian Film Festival of Los aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 7 Angeles aspen tue april 5

6:30pm 7:30pm I, Destini The Shining Star of OPENING NIGHT SHORTS Losers Everywhere RECEPTION PROGRAM Wheeler Opera House Lobby Wheeler Opera House 1 Total Run Time: 92 Minutes Join us in kicking-off the 25th Aspen FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW Delicately animated in black-and-white, Destini Special Thanks to The Aspen Times and Shortsfest, before Shorts Program 1, with Riley’s affecting account of the impact of the In 2003, Japan was plunged into economic Toby Devan Lewis prison-industrial complex on African-American hors d’oeuvres, wine, and beer. darkness, and its people needed a ray of hope. They families like her own was actually submitted as found one in Haru Urara, a racehorse with a pink Everything Will Be Okay evidence in her brother’s trial. (Nicholas Pilarski, Hello Kitty mask and a career-long losing streak. COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Destini Riley, USA, 14 min.) World Premiere (Mickey Duzyj, Japan/USA, 18 min.) Hosted by: Aspen Film and The Aspen Times Pickle The Evictor

COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC

The stakes of a weekend reunion couldn’t be higher for a father and his little girl in this taut yet sensitive Oscar®-nominated drama. (Patrick A low-level gangster meets the most unexpected Vollrath, Germany/Austria, 30 min.) An electrocuted fish, a water-retentive goose, a of adversaries when he breaks into the house of a paralyzed possum who eats scrambled eggs: with family he’s supposed to eject in this multilayered, affection and humor, a pair of animal lovers recount beautifully directed drama. (Bumsue Chun, South the injuries and insults life has hurled at their Korea, 15 min.) World Premiere menagerie. (Amy Nicholson, USA, 15 min.)

8 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE aspen wed april 6

NOON La Laguna 8:30pm Sea Breeze FILMMAKER SHORTS CONVERSATION PROGRAM The Red Onion Wheeler Opera House 3 420 E. Cooper Ave. Total Run Time: 88 Minutes COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC “I am not Mexican. I am Mayan,” says 12-year-old FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW See page 6 for details. Yu’uk, and his statement reverberates throughout Special Thanks to Alpine Bank and In this intimate character study, a Taiwanese this luminous, deeply poignant journey into Nancy Wall & Chuck Wall shopkeeper and a Filipino migrant find in one the heart of the rainforest, where his family’s another a kindred spirit. (Chun-Yi Li, Taiwan/UK, 30 way of life is under siege and the modern world min.) International Premiere 5:30pm encroaches. (Aaron Schock, Mexico/USA, 38 min.) Before the Spring SHORTS She Dances for People PROGRAM The Orchestra Wheeler Opera House 2 Total Run Time: 90 Minutes FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW Cairo, 2011: revolution is in the air, but Tamer—who Special Thanks to Aspen Public Radio has a bright future awaiting him and his family and Esther Pearlstone in America—wants no part of it. Whether he has a Mesmerizing black-and-white imagery allows an While the world around him shimmers with light choice is the question compelling this gritty drama. intriguing glimpse into the complex and moving and song, poor old Vernon wonders: can he ever (James Kaelan, USA/Egypt, 12 min.) World Premiere history of Canada’s indigenous populations. Charlotte emerge from the dark, tone-deaf shell of his own (Michelle Latimer, Canada, 4 min.) U.S. Premiere painfully shy making to strike up a tune with his new neighbor? (Mikey Hill, Australia, 15 min.) A Coat Made Dark World Wide Woven Bodies Under the Sun

A teenaged girl experiences the highs and lows of an unexpected crush in this tender and honest take on coming-of-age. (Angel Kristi Williams, USA, 11 min.) In this dark animated fable, stolen treasure marks a change in fortune for an evil dog and his exploited Just as he’s entering puberty, Mads gets ensnared manservant—but not in the way they think it will. in the World Wide Web in this Norwegian family God Willing The wheels of corruption propel the cycle of (Jack O’Shea, Ireland, 10 min.) dramedy set at the turn of the millennium. (Truls despair for two families in this dystopic critique Krane Meby, Norway, 16 min.) of modern-industrial Chinese society. (Qiu Yang, China/Australia, 19 min.) House Sitting

This portrait of Palestinian artist Mais Rosol AbuSaa doubles as an inspiring examination of the role of women in Islamic society today. (Gayle Embrey, USA, 7 min.) World Premiere Things always look better in the morning—and as the hapless hero of this gentle comedy discovers, sometimes they smell better, too. (Joe Burke, USA, 16 min.) World Premiere

aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 9 aspen thu april 7

NOON Just a Song Seide For A Good Time SEED&SPARK PRESENTS CROWDFUNDING TO BUILD Without hope of escape herself, can a village girl INDEPENDENCE facing an arranged marriage at least set her most Desperate for respite in the midst of mourning, Jane Gonzo Gallery, 625 E. Hyman Ave. When Dennis serenades his girlfriend, things don’t go as beloved companion free to roam the snow-covered calls a number scrawled on a bathroom wall. As this COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC hoped—at least not for her. (Gina Hirsch, USA, 5 min.) steppes of their homeland? (Elnura Osmonalieva, bittersweet comedy shows, she gets what she’s looking Kyrgyzstan, 14 min.) for. Sort of. (Aemilia Scott, USA, 20 min.) World Premiere Special Thanks to The Colorado Offi ce of Film, Melody Television, & Media Irregulars See page 6 for details. 8:30pm 5:30pm SHORTS SHORTS PROGRAM If music be the food of love, play on: a romance- Wheeler Opera House 5 minded young man discovers the truth of that famous Against a tellingly hypnotic factory backdrop, a PROGRAM Total Run Time: 87 Minutes Wheeler Opera House line. (Jean-Pierre Caner, USA, 11 min.) World Premiere refugee encapsulates the global immigration crisis 4 FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW Total Run Time: 90 Minutes in his own wrenching words. (Fabio Palmieri, Italy, FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW Mining Poems or Odes Special Thanks to AspenOUT and 9 min.) North American Premiere Paulette & Mel Blumenthal Special Thanks to The Aspen Club & Spa MissMe: The Artful Vandal and Lee & Steve Rittvo Across the Sea The Black Belt

The shipyards of Scotland doubled as an institution of higher learning for the welder-turned-poet at Tackling a subject both infuriating and hopeful, the center of this lyrical portrait. (Callum Rice, From subliminal to subversive: once a hot shot Scotland/UK, 11 min.) A stolen phone sheds light on the dreams and in the advertising world, MissMe has since found acclaimed documentarian Margaret Brown’s timely sorrows of both a new mother and a teenaged boy foray into the voter-ID debate introduces the Alabamans her voice and her bliss as a Montreal street artist. Mondo Cane in this deceptively subtle and beautiful drama. (Mohammad Gorjestani, USA, 4 min.) at the center of the fray. (Margaret Brown, USA, 11 min.) (Kelly Robinson, UK, 11 min.) Deer Flower Semele Dirt

Celebrated American photographer Thomas Roma At once unsettling, whimsical, and amusing, this shares his philosophies on art, life, and the canine stop-motion, 3D-printed fairy tale follows a young species while discussing two of his most influential A tough-tender family drama ensues when a young boy who partakes in an ancient rite of passage. Stylish and captivating, this stark thriller unfolds projects with filmmaker Michael Almereyda. girl tracks down her estranged father at work. (Kangmin Kim, USA/South Korea, 7 min.) less as a whodunit than as a whoitdunto. (Darius (Michael Almereyda, USA, 12 min.) Clark Monroe, USA, 7 min.) (Myrsini Aristidou, Cyprus, 13 min.) Hotel der Diktatoren Panic Attack! Edmond Speaking Is Diffi cult

Welcome to the Hotel Ledger Plaza Bangui. Once owned by a notorious dictator, it’s palatial by In the hilariously grotesque tradition of Švankmajer the standards of the Central African Republic— and the Quay Brothers, this piece of stop-motion Acclaimed documentarian AJ Schnack issues a lament In this amusing, mind-bending animated glimpse particularly the local employees, who show up for animation takes you on a trip around the world of for America’s gun-violence epidemic that’s all the more into the dark stream of one woman’s consciousness, work every day in hopes it will one day reopen to an unabashed freak. (Nina Gantz, UK, 9 min.) damning for its subtlety. (AJ Schnack, USA, 14 min.) guests. Think Waiting for Gaddafi. (Florian Hoffmann, one may find something all too familiar. (Eileen Germany/Central African Republic, 16 min.) O’Meara, USA, 3 min.) World Premiere

10 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE aspen fri april 8

NOON Good White People 8:30pm The Send-Off FILMMAKER SHORTS CONVERSATION PROGRAM The Red Onion Wheeler Opera House 7 420 E. Cooper Ave. Total Run Time: 92 Minutes COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC The struggle for the soul of a historic Cincinnati FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW In small-town America, a group of high-school See page 6 for details. neighborhood comes to an end as gentrification Special Thanks to Colorado Creative students gathers for the biggest, brightest night of displaces the longtime black residents featured Industries their young lives. (Ivete Lucas, Patrick Bresnan, in this hard-hitting, emotionally resonant USA, 12 min.) 5:30pm documentary. (Jarrod Welling-Cann, Erick Stoll, Glove USA, 16 min.) Tuesday SHORTS The Old Man and the Bird PROGRAM Wheeler Opera House 6 Total Run Time: 86 Minutes FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW An astronaut recalls a glove he lost in space in this Special Thanks to City of Aspen and charming animated meditation on the spirit of In this slice of social realism, a teenage schoolgirl Adam & Melony Lewis human endeavor. (Alexa Lim Haas, Bernardo Britto, learns a bit about life during an ordinary day on the Here’s a folktale as timeless as it is intelligently USA, 6 min.) streets of Istanbul. (Ziya Demirel, France/Turkey, Dancing for You animated: in the dead of winter, an elderly hermit 13 min.) takes in one last breath of fresh air made flesh. Hounds (Dennis Stein-Schomburg, Germany, 7 min.) North Victor XX American Premiere

Papé

Young Vilde’s passion for folk dance, zest for life, and tender affection for her beloved granddad Teamwork and treachery, devotion and deceit intermingle within the picturesque framework of the intersect in this surreal and strangely comic tale His loved ones know him as Mari; strangers see him Norwegian countryside in this moving documentary. of bureaucratic breakdown, set in a museum with as Victor. Set in small-town Spain, this anguished (Erlend E. Mo, Norway, 29 min.) U.S. Premiere a pernicious pecking order. (Omer Tobi, Israel, 30 yet inspiring coming-of-age story is also a coming- A belligerent old fisherman realizes it’s time to make min.) International Premiere of-gender story. (Ian Garrido, Spain, 21 min.) First Night Out peace with his past in this folktale-meets-lullaby, beautifully shot on the shores of Guadeloupe. Red Folder (Nicolas Polixene, France, 18 min.) U.S. Premiere

Step 9

A woman takes herself to dinner for the very first time. (Will Mayo, USA, 3 min.) At his teacher’s behest, a troubled student goes in search of a red folder—but is it really a red flag? (Ben Kallam, USA, 10 min.) With a loyal sidekick along for the ride, Marian discovers the most heartfelt search for redemption can double as a romp. (Leonora Pitts, USA, 13 min.)

aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 11 aspen sat april 9

NOON Oh My Father 8:30pm Someone Is Happy Somewhere STOP ASKING SHORTS PERMISSION AND PROGRAM Wheeler Opera House 9 TELL YOUR STORY: Total Run Time: 81 Minutes A conversation with Sean At the heart of this quietly touching real-life portrait FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW A troubled, deaf handyman and a beautiful but Baker and BRIGHT IDEAS is the daily routine of a 98-year-old man and the Special Thanks to Aspen Film struggling tenant of a Brazilian high rise meet at daughter who cares for him. (Rodrigo Ojeda-Beck, Volunteers an emotional crossroads in this intense drama, set magazine Robert Machoian, USA, 11 min.) World Premiere on the night of the country’s biggest soccer match. Chair 9 at The Little Nell Bacon & God’s Wrath (Mario Furloni, Alvaro Furloni, Brazil, 18 min.) 675 E. Durant Ave. Snowbird International Premiere COMPLIMENTARY AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Stripper Wars See page 6 for details.

5:30pm At age 90, Razie contemplates her journey of From the director of the groundbreaking indie hit self-discovery upon deciding to try bacon after a Tangerine, in conjunction with cutting-edge fashion lifetime of keeping kosher in this quirky, insightful SHORTS label Kenzo, comes this gorgeously lensed, off-the- documentary. (Sol Friedman, Canada, 9 min.) A strip club becomes a dreamscape for a lonely grid, May-December romance. (Sean Baker, USA, 12 exotic dancer longing for acceptance. (Giancarlo PROGRAM min.) World Premiere Loffredo, USA, 7 min.) Wheeler Opera House 8 Chekhov Total Run Time: 88 Minutes Summer of Sarah Thanks for Dancing FILMMAKER Q&A TO FOLLOW Special Thanks to Aspen Film Members

Brillo Box (3¢ off)

Grief and ire shot through with wicked humor: a brief phone call from the director to his sister This classic coming-of-age story finds sixteen- contains all the elements of the namesake master’s A glimmer of hope arises from the depths of grief year-old Sarah struggling to juggle her hard- works. (Jack Dunphy, USA, 5 min.) on the wintry Norwegian horizon of this enduring working father’s expectations, a demeaning job love story. (Henrik Martin Dahlsbakken, Norway, 19 and the advances of a boy from the right side of Partners min.) North American Premiere While tracing the 40-year journey of an Andy Warhol the tracks. (Emma Benestan, France, 25 min.) original from her family’s living room to the auction U.S. Premiere These C*cksucking Tears block, documentarian Lisanne Skyler delivers a delightful, nostalgia-tinged snapshot of the American middle class, colorfully framed by a crash course in postmodernism. (Lisanne Skyler, USA, 40 min.) World Premiere Sex, work, money, commitment: the duo driving this wry comedy cover all the greatest hits of arguing couples before they even get out of bed in Meet Patrick Haggerty, a singer-songwriter who has the morning. (Joey Ally, USA, 7 min.) worn his fiercely antiestablishment heart on his sleeve since the 1970s, when he recorded the first gay country album. (Dan Taberski, USA, 16 min.)

12 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE aspen sun april 10

11:30am Pythagasaurus Nokia: Dot Ray’s Big Idea BREAKFAST AT THE FEST Wheeler Opera House Lobby See page 5 for details. Bumbling cavemen Ig and Uk awaken to find a The invention of the CellScope—a Nokia device with A plucky, pioneering, prehistoric fish has a ground- volcano on their doorstep. Could their only hope be a a microscope attachment—was the inspiration for breaking plan to improve his life. (Steve Harding- 12:30pm dinosaur who’s good at math? (Peter Peake, 2011) this teeny-tiny film about a 9-millimeter girl called Hill, 2014) Dot, who struggles through a microscopic world. FAMILY FUN! Creature Comforts (Sumo Science, 2010) Aardman Nathan Love AARDMAN ANIMATIONS DC’s World’s Funnest: Episode 1 40TH ANNIVERSARY FAMILY PROGRAM Wheeler Opera House Total Run Time: 89 Minutes The animals in an English zoo conduct a series of View the world’s most epic logo reveal for the Aspen Shortsfest is thrilled to partner interviews on their accommodation, diet, and of world’s most epic partnership. (Joe Burrascano, with legendary animation studio course the English weather. (Nick Park, 1989) Superman and the gang get a youthful makeover 2015) with the help of vocal performances by youngsters. Aardman Animations—the Shortsfest Morph: Grand Morph’s Home (Rich Webber, 2011) So You Want to Be a Pirate! alum that brought you such favorites Movies as A Close Shave and Chicken Run—in Shaun the Sheep: 3DTV celebrating its 40th anniversary with The Farmer’s new TV is even more 3D than he could ever have imagined! (Jay Grace, 2013) a retrospective screening the whole family’s sure to adore. When Grand Morph shares footage of Morph as a baby, Special Thanks to Thrift Shop of Aspen embarrassment and hilarity ensue. (Peter Lord, 1980) Chaos unfolds as The Pirate Captain reveals his tips and Les Dames d’Aspen, Ltd. on becoming a dashing yet sensitive terror of the Angry Kid: Bone high seas. (Jay Grace, 2012) The Wrong Trousers Fly A villainous penguin and a pair of automated techno-trousers plunge our clay heroes into one of (Bram Ttwheam, 2012) their wildest adventures yet. (Nick Park, 1993) Aardman Original Cartoon Oh no, the bone—what’s that doing there? (Darren Walsh, 1998) Purple & Brown: Whistler The eternal battle between man and fly is played out when a man and his dog make increasingly extreme efforts to rid themselves of a pest. (Alan Short, 2010) This cel-animated sequence features the original 2:00pm “Aardman,” an inept superhero. (Peter Lord, David Morph: Sloped World Sproxton) MILK & COOKIES Wheeler Opera House Lobby Shaun the Sheep: Cones Visited by noisy and intriguing strangers, Purple See page 5 for details. and Brown are desperate to join in the fun. (Rich Webber, 2006) 6:30pm Chas has a new angle on photography. (Merlin Crossingham, 2014) AWARDS DINNER Shaun and the Flock commandeer an ice-cream Cooking School of Aspen 216 S. Monarch St. van, which results in an endless supply of the sweet treat—but will they be able to cover their See page 5 for details. tracks before they’re discovered? (Jay Grace, 2013) aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 13 carbondale sat april 9

5:15pm MissMe: The Artful Vandal 7:30pm I, Destini SHORTS SHORTS PROGRAM PROGRAM Crystal Theatre A Crystal Theatre B Total Run Time: 85 Minutes Total Run Time: 91 Minutes Special Thanks to the Towns of Basalt Special Thanks to the Towns of Basalt and Carbondale From subliminal to subversive: once a hot shot Delicately animated in black-and-white, Destini in the advertising world, MissMe has since found and Carbondale Riley’s affecting account of the impact of the her voice and her bliss as a Montreal street artist. prison-industrial complex on African-American Across the Sea (Mohammad Gorjestani, USA, 4 min.) Bacon & God’s Wrath families like her own was actually submitted as evidence in her brother’s trial. (Nicholas Pilarski, Mondo Cane Destini Riley, USA, 14 min.) World Premiere Partners

A stolen phone sheds light on the dreams and sorrows of both a new mother and a teenaged boy At age 90, Razie contemplates her journey of in this deceptively subtle and beautiful drama. self-discovery upon deciding to try bacon after a (Kelly Robinson, UK, 11 min.) Celebrated American photographer Thomas Roma lifetime of keeping kosher in this quirky, insightful shares his philosophies on art, life, and the canine documentary. (Sol Friedman, Canada, 9 min.) First Night Out species while discussing two of his most influential Sex, work, money, commitment: the duo driving projects with filmmaker Michael Almereyda. Brillo Box (3¢ off) this wry comedy cover all the greatest hits of (Michael Almereyda, USA, 12 min.) arguing couples before they even get out of bed in the morning. (Joey Ally, USA, 7 min.) Pickle Snowbird A woman takes herself to dinner for the very first time. (Will Mayo, USA, 3 min.) While tracing the 40-year journey of an Andy Warhol Glove original from her family’s living room to the auction block, documentarian Lisanne Skyler delivers An electrocuted fish, a water-retentive goose, a a delightful, nostalgia-tinged snapshot of the paralyzed possum who eats scrambled eggs: with American middle class, colorfully framed by a crash From the director of the groundbreaking indie hit affection and humor, a pair of animal lovers recount course in postmodernism. (Lisanne Skyler, USA, 40 Tangerine, in conjunction with cutting-edge fashion the injuries and insults life has hurled at their min.) World Premiere label Kenzo, comes this gorgeously lensed, off-the- menagerie. (Amy Nicholson, USA, 15 min.) grid, May-December romance. (Sean Baker, USA, 12 An astronaut recalls a glove he lost in space in this Edmond min.) World Premiere charming animated meditation on the spirit of human endeavor. (Alexa Lim Haas, Bernardo Britto, The Shining Star of Losers USA, 6 min.) Everywhere

House Sitting

In the hilariously grotesque tradition of Švankmajer and the Quay Brothers, this piece of stop-motion In 2003, Japan was plunged into economic animation takes you on a trip around the world of an unabashed freak. (Nina Gantz, UK, 9 min.) Things always look better in the morning—and as darkness, and its people needed a ray of hope. They the hapless hero of this gentle comedy discovers, found one in Haru Urara, a racehorse with a pink sometimes they smell better, too. (Joe Burke, USA, Hello Kitty mask and a career-long losing streak. 16 min.) World Premiere (Mickey Duzyj, Japan/USA, 18 min.)

14 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE carbondale sun april 10

3pm 5:15pm Mining Poems or Odes FAMILY FUN! SHORTS AARDMAN ANIMATIONS 40TH ANNIVERSARY PROGRAM Crystal Theatre C FAMILY PROGRAM Total Run Time: 87 Minutes Crystal Theatre Special Thanks to the Towns of Basalt The shipyards of Scotland doubled as an institution Total Run Time: 89 Minutes and Carbondale of higher learning for the welder-turned-poet at the center of this lyrical portrait. (Callum Rice, Aspen Shortsfest is thrilled to partner with legendary animation studio Aardman Charlotte Scotland/UK, 11 min.) Animations—the Shortsfest alum that brought you such favorites as A Close Shave and Chicken Run—in celebrating its 40th anniversary with a retrospective screening the whole The Orchestra family’s sure to adore.

Special Thanks to Thrift Shop of Aspen and Les Dames d’Aspen, Ltd. (See page 13 for program details)

A teenaged girl experiences the highs and lows of an unexpected crush in this tender and honest take on coming-of-age. (Angel Kristi Williams, USA, 11 min.) While the world around him shimmers with light and song, poor old Vernon wonders: can he ever Dancing for You emerge from the dark, tone-deaf shell of his own painfully shy making to strike up a tune with his new neighbor? (Mikey Hill, Australia, 15 min.)

She Dances for People

Young Vilde’s passion for folk dance, zest for life and tender affection for her beloved granddad intermingle within the picturesque framework of the Norwegian countryside in this moving documentary. (Erlend E. Mo, Norway, 29 min.) U.S. Mesmerizing black-and-white imagery allows an Premiere intriguing glimpse into the complex and moving history of Canada’s indigenous populations. Just a Song (Michelle Latimer, Canada, 4 min.) U.S. Premiere The Send-Off

When Dennis serenades his girlfriend, things don’t go as hoped—at least not for her. (Gina Hirsch, USA, 5 min.) In small-town America, a group of high-school students gathers for the biggest, brightest night of their young lives. (Ivete Lucas, Patrick Bresnan, USA, 12 min.)

aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE 15 MANY THANKS TO OUR GENEROUS grantors & sponsors

PRESENTING SPONSOR SIGNATURE SPONSOR SUPPORTING SPONSORS

GRANTORS

MEDIA PARTNERS DESIGN & MARKETING

BRIGHT

IDmagEASa z i n e

graphic design

LODGING PARTNERS

VENUES

16 aspen film shortsfest 2016 FESTIVAL GUIDE