ATLFF Alumni Spotlight: Don-Dimitri Joseph

Don-Dimitri Joseph gets it. I don’t remember when I met him. Truthfully, my memory of the ATLFF’24 is a blur. But I’m fairly sure it was the first night. I was stalking. My eyes were staring at the badges hanging around everyone’s neck. Looking specifically for one’s reading “Filmmaker.” 

The ATLFF Marketing Team, which I’m a proud member of, had a mission: Find filmmakers and talk to them about their film on camera. And when I met a fella named Don, I don’t even think I finished my question before Don replied, “Absolutely!”

Now, despite not remembering when I met Don, I do remember not being able to conduct the interview at that moment. So I told him I would catch up with him. He flashed that smile that graced movie and television screens worldwide, and we parted ways. 

For the next few days, I was scrambling from the Plaza Theatre to the Tara Theatre and all the parties and hangouts in between. And every time I saw Don, he threw me a grin and asked if it was a good time to talk. I told him to give me a beat, and I would as soon as possible. Finally, when the tides went in a bit, I finally did something I should have done sooner, but was glad I waited to give it the proper time he deserved. I spoke with the Director, Producer, and star of the ATLFF’24 Episodic Short, Last Option.

Fast-forward to a couple of weeks ago. The Marketing Team had a new mission: Talk to ATLFF alums and find out what they were up to. 

I knew who I needed to talk to. Here is a transcript from my interview with Don-Dimitri Joseph. It happened the night that his latest acting release, the Apple TV show…Well, you’ll see.  

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Keith Hannigan

Hi, everybody. I am Keith Hannigan, the Community Engagement Lead for the Atlanta Film Society and the Atlanta Film Festival. Tonight, I have the privilege and honor of speaking with Atlanta Film Festival 24 #ATLFF24 alum Don-Dimitri Joseph, whose film Last Option was shown during our Episodic Showcase at this year's festival. Don. Welcome. Thank you for your time.

Don-Dimitri Joseph

No, thank you. Thank you for having me, bro.

KH

It's an absolute pleasure. I loved your film. It was great. Or I'm sorry. I loved your pilot. And you tell me now, Don, you're an actor, producer and director.

DDJ

Yes. Yes. I am an actor, producer, and Director. I started off as an actor and then transitioned into producing because we were like others who made our own projects. After that, it was my first foray into directing last year.

KH

Okay. Well, we'll talk about your acting quickly because, folks, tonight at midnight, something huge is happening for Don. Don, I give it to you.

DDJ

Yeah. Lady in the Lake comes out on Apple TV, directed by Alma Har’el. She is a visionary director. She directed Honey Boy as a feature, and this is her first foray into showwriting a TV show. She's, you know, phenomenal working with on set.  I play a character named Johnny in the first two episodes. Byron Bowers who plays Slappy Johnson, his crew. And we had a really good time on set in our first episode. A lot of it was just doing a lot of improv, which was interesting and fun. The second episode was just us having a good time together. Yeah.

KH

Well, Don, you didn't mention the star of the show.

DDJ

Natalie Portman.

KH

An Academy Award-winning actress. Natalie Portman, correct?

DDJ

Yes. Yes.

KH

Did you have any scenes with her?

DDJ

I didn't have any scenes with her, but I had scenes with Moses Ingram, and she's a phenomenal actress.

KH

Now, I did some extensive research on you, which means I went to your IMDB page. You've acted in 32 pieces, correct?

DDJ

I mean, I don't remember the number.

KH

It’s 32, trust me, I counted. What was the most popular thing you've done?

DDJ

Probably Lady in the Lake, the one that's coming out now. I mean, I've done Gotham Knights, Gotham Knights was pretty cool. Opposite Misha (Collins)  from Supernatural. That was a great little time. And then, yeah, I'm not sure, really. I guess BMF. People are familiar with that show.  I was in an episode, and it was fun as well. But also, at the same time, the projects that we've made, you know, I love those projects, and those are some of my most favorite projects that I've ever done.

KH

Well, that's a beautiful segue, my friend, because we'll discuss Last Option. I love it. My wife loved it. You not only acted in it, you not only produced it, but you also directed it. Now, tell me what that was like.

DDJ

Yeah. It's so awesome when you get to make projects with your friends. My friend, A.J. Fitzgerald, wrote the script. We've known each other for close to a decade, and we've been making movies for close to that amount of time together. And I remember there was a movie I was able to be a part of. He got inspired, and we knew that we wanted to make a fun movie. And he wrote Last Option in 15 minutes. He had the script written down in 15 minutes! The guy is brilliant to me. I always say he has a brilliant mind, and I just love working with him. And even more than that, I love our friendship. The funny thing with this project (Last Option) is that he wrote it years ago. I want to say about like 2018, 2019 around that time. But we basically shelved it because we were working on other stuff. And then we were like, yo, we're going to shoot a project that I ended up writing, which was Bonnie. It's like a project about a foster care kid, and I was trying to raise money for that, but the money didn’t come through because I actually ended up booking Lady in the Lake. So, I had to fly out to Baltimore, and the traction for the money that I was raising fell apart. So we're like,” What can we do for a little bit of money and that we can just, you know, make it happen?” And we brought up Last Option. We shot that for $1200 in three days.

And yeah, we were able to put that together in a fun way. We brought together some of our friends, Candice Marie Singleton. I have been friends with her for close to a decade, and she moved up here to Atlanta from Miami. And that's where we all met. And it's just been awesome. Just, you know, making projects with your friends and the friendships that we're able to build on set, too.

And like with my DP Cam Nails, he is going to be DP for the next project that I'm shooting next month, which is called Heart To See. It is just beautiful to see how we can enjoy these working relationships and friendships. You know what I mean? I think it's always fun when you get to work with people who bring their A-game, but are also excellent at what they do.

KH

I do. And I'm glad you brought up Heart To See. We’ll get to that shortly because my friend here is doing a crowdfunding campaign on Seed & Spark. I want you to donate to his film because he's a brilliant filmmaker. And for those who haven't seen Last Option, well, what is it about?

DDJ

Yeah, it's about a guy named Daniel who can see into the future, and he uses those abilities to commit burglaries. It’s a sci-fi buddy comedy. It's an adventure film, you know. It's a film that wanted to tackle the platonic relationship between him (Daniel)  and the lead, Josie. Josie’s like this eccentric homeless person, and she's breaking into the same house he's breaking into.

But it's a fun project, and we're looking to expand it. We're trying to shop around and get the funds to make that project as well.

DDJ

Well, I have to ask you. I mean, I work for the Atlanta Film Festival. So what did you think? You were a part of the festival this year, and it was huge. What were your impressions?

DDJ

Yo! I love the Atlanta Film Festival! Atlanta Film Festival is the best film festival. Do you know what I mean? From the way everything was curated to the way they treated the filmmakers, to the parties, to the get-togethers, to the way every single aspect of the film festival was run, it was top-notch. The people that I was able to meet were amazing, the food was great, you know, every aspect of the film festival was phenomenal, and connecting with you was great. Do you know what I'm saying? So it was just pretty cool meeting great people throughout the festival from day one to literally the end and even at the launch party. The Launch Party was phenomenal. You know? So I love it. I love it, I love it, I love it!  The hope is that we get the actual green light for Last Option, that that would be like the premiere, you know, for us, you know what I'm saying? So, yeah.

KH

Well, it's awesome too, because we celebrate independent film. We support and celebrate independent film. And independent filmmakers are a community. And one thing that we try to do at the festival is bring everybody together. I'm a writer, you know, I want to be around other writers. I want to be around other visionaries. I want to be around other filmmakers. We all, at one point or another, got that chill moment, that goosebumps moment while watching a film, whether we were little kids or adults or all the space in between. And sharing that common bond, whether you're an actor, a producer, a director, a writer, whatever the case may be, because they're all their folks. You go to the Atlanta Film Festival, and you're surrounded by them, like at the Launch Party, which was off the hook. It kind of took us back. My God, this is way bigger than we thought it would be. But it was awesome, too, because it was just like, wow! This is really showing you that the independent film industry is just bursting at the seams with these amazingly talented, gifted, passionate, and driven folks such as you.

So I say that to ask you something. What was it that grabbed you? What film just grabbed you, whether you were an eight-year-old at the theater or watching a TV show, and you were like, my God, I need to do this?

DDJ

You know, I think it's interesting, right? Because it's like growing up, I wasn't necessarily ever thinking that I'd ever be in this industry, I'd ever be in this world of filmmaking. But I remember there was one time, even as a kid, just watching Blade, I was like, wow!  A black man is on screen as a vampire. That's pretty cool, you know? And I was really young just seeing it and just enjoying it. And then fast forward to seeing all the different films such as Remember the Titans and, you know, seeing these performances that were just so alive and rich was just like, wow,  this is pretty cool. And then there was one day I was in middle school. I was getting ready for school. I looked in the mirror and wondered if I wanted to be an actor. It was just a thought, but I remember I had that one thought, and then it was just like, I don't know. 

But it was later,  I was in high school just doing my thing, and my guidance counselor ended up putting me in Drama 2 randomly. And my mind is just like, I've never taken a drama class in my life. And the funny thing is, literally, we're in class, and we're doing all the exercises, and one of them, they're like lay down on the floor, close your eyes. Imagine this scene is happening. But next thing I know, I'm falling asleep, and I'm just like, yeah, this isn’t for me. So I'm not even doing the exercise. I'm just sleeping in class because I didn't really know what this was.

But later on, around my freshman year of college, my friend and I went to an audition at church, and it was for a play called Jesus of Nazareth. And he was like,  do I want to audition? And I was like, sure, I guess. I really have nothing to do. And then, I went to the audition, and I got the role that I auditioned for. Ever since then, I have been doing theater, being alive in front of people, and just experiencing the project and the play and just everything with the audience. It was so powerful it created the acting bug in me and the passion to just keep going with this art of creating films and being a part of moving stories.

KH

So that’s the first time you smoked the drug, for lack of a better phrase. I know for actors in particular, if you ask them what world they would love to live in, I think the majority of them say stage because there's such a rush that comes from performing in front of a live audience every night. So, what got you into film?

DDJ

Let's make movies, you know? Let's make our own projects. Let's shoot stories that we want to tell. Because there were times when I wanted to do plays… But at the same time, I saw the opportunity with film and TV to reach even more people with stories that can change lives.

And I feel like I'm in this world to change lives, to impact lives, to help somebody have a better day, you know? But if somebody was dealing with something and they felt bad and they came in and watched a movie that I was part of or helped make, and then their days uplifted, that right there makes me feel like, wow! That right there is amazing; you know what I'm saying?

KH

I love that answer. I know you were saying it means so much to you to have a community. You know, a lot of people say you've got to be a part of a community. You have to start your own community, find people around you, find others, work with writers, find writers' groups, etc. I mean, if you ever see the Steven Spielberg documentary, you find out who his friends were when he was first making films, and it's like, he was friends with Martin Scorsese, Francis Ford Coppola, Brian De Palma, and George Lucas.

You're like, okay, well, I saw his clique of people. How do I find my clique? How did you find your community? How do you find your clique?

DDJ

I will say Facebook. 

KH

Really, how?

DDJ

For example, AJ is one of the first people to come to mind. I met him at a church event, and we just connected there, and then we added each other on Facebook. But fast-forward one day, and I was like, “Hey, I'm setting up a writer's group. Does anybody want to join?” He responded to it, and then a couple of other people responded. 

And then, from those people who responded to it, we started going to Starbucks weekly and reading up and, you know, working on different prompts and creating different short stories and scripts and all that. And then there were certain friends I also met at auditions. I met Candice at an audition. I met a friend of mine named Adebiyi  at a Home Depot audition.

So, another friend, Isaac, and I met him at an audition. So, like actors, I've met at auditions. Writers, I've met at different places and Facebook, and then just knowing that, like, I feel like I'm a vision-filled person, and I have a lot of vision in terms of like, what is possible and what can be accomplished in the projects that we can tell and the stories that we can create to change people's lives.

Certain people definitely draw to it, and I'm drawn to it, and then I'm drawn to their vision as well. And I think, you know, we gravitate towards one another, and we know that we want to just make fun and impactful stories. And we're not in it to be famous or anything.

We're in it to change people's lives. We're in it to make an impact. We're in it just because we love it. There's this love for this craft. This is love for film, love for acting, love for storytelling. And I feel like I gravitate towards those people who know that they're doing this, you know, for purpose, and then are enjoying it, have fun with it.

KH

That’s beautiful. It's funny; you made me think of the movie America Fiction.  Have you seen it?

DDJ

No, no. With Jeffrey Wright?

KH

Yeah, it's sensational. And I watched it, and as soon as I'm done watching it, I'm telling everybody, I'm telling my wife, I'm like, I will watch it again right now with you if you watch this with me. That night, I'm reading the script because you're like, I got to see how this all started.

And the reason why—and I don't know if you feel this way—is that there is no medium on Earth that gets you, moves you, speaks to you, and sings to your soul like cinematic storytelling. So, I have to ask you, since you’re attracted to visionaries, what do you see for the future of cinematic storytelling?

DDJ

Future of cinematic storytelling…

KH

Is it shorter films? Is it in the world of TikTok, where my 17-year-old has an attention span of less than 45 seconds?

DDJ

Yeah, Yeah. No, that's a great question, man. Honestly, I think it's independent storytellers and independent filmmakers. You know, so many articles came out literally specifying how there's been a 40% drop in productions that are being made and people who have lost their jobs and now have to do other work outside of the industry because of the lack of productions being shot.

Meanwhile, independent filmmakers are rising up. I think I even saw something about Netflix saying that now they will be branching out towards independent filmmakers and considering their projects to be brought onto their platform. And I think that's a beautiful thing because, as an independent filmmaker, if I can shoot a feature film for $25,000, I will make the best movie that we can possibly make as a team.

And honestly, even with TikTok, I've seen some cool things happen. But I will say, though, I think they tried to test a three-minute service that was out for a while and shut down because people still want to go to movies. People actually enjoy a cinematic masterpiece. People want to be able to go to the cinemas. I think the future is independent filmmakers telling stories at a budget level that isn't necessarily a blockbuster, you know?

KH

Great answer. And I want to point out something you mentioned earlier about how you found your community on Facebook. One of the classes that we offer at the Atlanta Film Society is Genre Feature Screenwriting, and we have one coming up.

Ruckus and Lane Skye, two accomplished filmmakers and screenwriters, teach the class. After you finish the class, you have a page devoted just to all the people who attended it.

Another community builder is using the Atlanta Film Society. Every third Tuesday of the month, shameless plugging right now, every third Tuesday of the month at Manuel's Tavern, we have Eat, Drink, and B-Indie, which we always have a theme for the night, but immediately thereafter words, we have about an hour for everybody to network.

And there are people like Don who go there. So whether you’re an actor, producer, director, or writer, it doesn't matter. They're all there. Anybody watching (or reading) this right now, use us. Use the Atlanta Film Society, use the Atlanta Film Festival, and let us help you achieve your dream.

At least we can put you in front of people who are like you. And speaking of people like you, I have to ask you something. Given where you are now, what would you say to you ten years ago? Would you want to speed up the process if you could give yourself a piece of advice that would possibly get you further along in the process at a faster rate?

Or would you be like, you know what, kid, take your time? You need to experience some things.

DDJ

Yeah, I definitely would allow myself to still take that time. But at the same time, experience life at a rate where you’re taking in everything around you. And I say that because I know there are moments where I wanted to learn how to play an instrument, and I didn't do it when I should have. And I think that would have benefited me. Not to say, I still can't do it, which I still can't. But I think I would have told myself, “Hey, Don, you know, yo, learn as much as you can, get better at the craft in your life that you love, but at the same time, don't necessarily let the acting be everything.”

You know what I mean? Because everything else around you helps develop the acting. And if I'm a better musician, I'll be a better actor. I can take that into the acting. I can take on a character who knows how to, you know, play the piano. La La Land is one of my favorite movies. Ryan Gosling kills it as a pianist and jazz musician. You know what I'm saying?

So, I think I just experience life and learn as much as I possibly can, enjoy every single moment, and enjoy the people around me. I lost my grandma a couple of years ago; I just wish I had spent more time with her, you know?

So spend more time with the people around you, learn from them, and hear their stories. And I think, yeah, it wouldn’t even necessarily be about the acting, but it'd be about the people that you love and the experiences that you are able to experience.

KH

Beautiful. I was chatting with the writer, not the writer of the book Fight Club (Chuck Palahniuk), but the writer of the screenplay Fight Club (Jim Uhls). And I asked what one thing in your life helped you become a better writer. And he goes, I took acting classes, and I was like, no kidding. Aaron Sorkin, who is usually everybody's screenwriting’s favorite writer, was an actor who started out as an actor. So, just be well-rounded.

But I have to ask you, whether it be a kid watching or an adult who has stories to tell, what would be a piece of advice you can give them to help them  get to where you're at today?

DDJ

Don't be afraid to tell those stories. You know, I'm the type of person that I really need to make it happen. If you can implement that in your life to make it happen, that will help you get further than you would have thought. Because I think about it like this, with Last Option, that was a film that we made, but if we didn't make it, I wouldn't be in this interview with you. You know what I mean? I wouldn't be sitting here right now having this conversation with you. I wouldn't have been able to be at that film festival and have that on my resumé now, and not only for me, but every single person who worked on that film wouldn’t have had it on their resumé.

For example, I know AJ's life has benefited from being a part of that festival. The people that he's been able to meet, especially as a writer, and the connections that he's been able to make as a writer have been a blessing because we decided to make that movie. So it's like for anybody who's watching and is afraid. Hey, if you have to do it afraid, do it afraid. But know that you’re taking that first step; that's what matters.

KH

That’s all that matters. Like the crowd watching your film, right? And speaking of crowds, let’s talk about the film you're crowdfunding for, which is Heart to See. Now, you're not playing one role because God forbid you only play one role in a film you're making or being a part of. Usually, you're wearing multiple hats. So, what roles are you playing in the film?

DDJ

I ended up writing the script, and I'll also be producing, directing, and starring in the film.

KH

Look at you. Now, this is your first time writing.

DDJ

First official time. I'd say that we're actually getting a project out that I really put some time into writing. Yeah.

KH

You told me something earlier. Tell everybody what you did. You kind of experimented with storytelling to get to where you are now with your TikTok, right?

DDJ

Yes. Yes. So it's very funny because it was before I wanted to test something out and build an audience. And I was like, I was seeing what was happening on TikTok, how people were, you know, just building crowds at such an audience at such a fast rate. I was like, I wonder if I could do that with the project, you know?

So I wrote a one-minute episode series. I was doing some funny videos and some creative and talking videos, encouraging videos, I ended up gaining a good amount of followers in a little bit of time. And then I just lost traction.

But then for that series, I started building a little bit too, but then the part that did suck, though, was that at the time, I didn't really know how to edit as well, so I was paying for an editor, and I was like I don't have $750 to pay for the rest of this stuff. 

So, only a couple of episodes are up. I just wanted to test it out and see if I could build the audience. But at the same time, I learned how storytelling on social media platforms can go as well. And I'm proud to say I did it. You know what I'm saying? It wasn't the greatest writing. But I'm proud of the fact that I was able to do it, put myself out there, and do that.

But now, with this project, Heart to See, I believe with some of my best writing. I've grown as a writer and I've grown as an artist since then till now. And I'm just thankful that I’m doing it. I was afraid but I did it. And I'm proud of the fact that we are here now.

And a lot of people have read the script for Heart to See so far. They're really digging it. There are some things that we're still tightening up, but for the most part, it's a pretty solid story.

KH

What is the story about?

DDJ

Iit's about this guy named Zack on his 30th birthday. And his aunt shares with his mom how he looks like his dad. So that opens up Pandora's box for him. But the only thing is he's never met his dad. And he wants he wants to meet him for the very first time before he goes blind. So it's a heartfelt family drama.

And yeah, I think it's a proof of concept for a feature as well. We have an amazing cast and crew. Markuann Smith and Christina Horn are involved in the project. Christine, she's an amazing actress. She leads Hollywood Bound Actors. She's been in BMF. So many amazing projects as well. Snowfall. She's great. When I say she's one of the best actresses I've ever seen, I'm super thankful that she decided to be a part of this. 

And Markuann Smith, he's he actually created this one show called Godfather of Harlem that’s on Epix and stars Forest Whitaker. So he's part of this project, and I'm thankful that he's a part of it, too.

And we just got some really cool people because, of course, they’re Korstiaan Vandiver, Dario Harris, and the homie Corwin Tuggles. So it's just some amazing friends as well because I love working with the same people, too, you know. And people I know are going to put in great work. 

KH

Well, you have a Seed & Spark campaign going right now?

DDJ

Right now. 

KH

Where can people get more information?

DDJ

Yeah, if you go to our Instagram page, HeartToSeeFilm, and click the link in the bio, the link, and it'll take you directly to the page. On that page, you can choose whichever incentive you want, whether that be $10, so you know, $1,000, or even if you want to give $5.

But there are many incentives that you can get with the giving towards the project. And yeah, man, so we are aiming to raise this film by the end of August, and going into production next month.

KH

Awesome. Congratulations. Thank you. Not only for being who you are, which is a hell of a man, but also for being an Atlanta Film Festival ‘24 Alumnus, for being a working actor, and for trying to inspire people via your stories. So, if they want to keep up with what you're up to, how can people follow you on your social handles?

DDJ

Yeah, thank you, bro. Don- Dimitri Joseph and that's on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X).

KH

More than anything, I want to say thank you for your time. And before we go, we all have to say congratulations to you, by the way, on being a newly married man.

Welcome to the world of Till Death Us Party. I have one last question: Is she a fan of your work?

DDJ

She is, man. When I say she is, she's amazing. I mean, this. This woman is amazing, as is the case with Last Option. I will tell you this, she watched that movie with me at least a thousand times when I was editing, and I was like, does that sound good? Is that cut too quickly? Like, does that work? Does that flow good? Like, I just fixed the audio, can you hear the white in the background?  

She literally sat and watched the whole film from beginning to end in my editing. And man, just her support. I love that woman so, so much. And yeah, I'm thankful that she chose to marry me because, man, she. She's amazingly beautiful.

KH

Well, thank you again, my friend. I appreciate you.

DDJ

Thank you.

KH

And for any filmmaker watching, whether it be the Atlanta Film Festival ‘24 or any years prior, and you would like to be part of this series, which we will be doing with our alums, you can email me at keith@atlantafilmfestival.com.  You can check out everything we're doing at the Atlanta Film Society by going to atlfs.org. And, of course, the 49th Atlanta Film Festival is coming next April.

You can check that out on atlantafilmfestival.com. On those pages, you'll find all of our social handles if you want to follow us, see what's going on, and see what classes we're offering. As I mentioned, we have these free networking events every month, EDBI. I really suggest people, you go to them. You'll not only learn things, but you'll meet people.

Wonderful people like my friend. So again, thank you. And take care, everyone.

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So, what does Don-Dimitri Joseph “get”? I’ll pull this quote for you again:

“We're in it to change people's lives. We're in it to make an impact.”

He gets why he’s doing what he’s doing. He gets that it’s not about him; it’s about the people who come and spend their money and, more importantly, their time watching him do what he does. It’s about making them think, laugh, cry, whatever takes their minds off their bills, their kids' grades, the job they hate… He gets it.

And he gets that he’s not done, not by damn sight. 

Written by Keith Hannigan

The 2019 Atlanta Film Festival Recap

An entire month’s passed since the 43rd annual Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) brought together nearly 30,000 passionate filmmakers and cinephiles for 11 days of cultural discovery, artistic growth and opportunity. We gathered everywhere from the beautiful, sunlit fields of the BeltLine to the familiar comfort of the historic Plaza Theatre and enjoyed everything from creative films and shorts to groundbreaking experimental media, music videos and insightful discussions led by filmmakers from all over the world. The sheer number of things happening at any given moment forced attendees to pick and choose which events to attend at the cost of missing others.

For those who want to relive the festival or simply missed out, here are some ATLFF ‘19 highlights.

It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

The Plaza Theatre celebrates Georgian filmmakers.

Georgia’s tax incentive may bring big-name, big-budget productions to our burgeoning Peach State, but our indigenous filmmaking community continues to create films worthy of acclaim. Of the record-setting 8,000+ films and screenplays submitted to this year’s festival, works created by Georgia filmmakers ranked among the finest. We were thrilled to showcase them during ‘It’s a Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood,’ a block comprised entirely of short films created by Georgian filmmakers.

Filled with narrative, documentary, and animated films that left the entire Plaza Theatre enraptured, engaged, and inspired, the shorts were so great we watched them twice!

Opening Night Presentation: THE FAREWELL

Lulu Wang (left) and Nora “Awkafina“ Lum (right) walk the red carpet.

If local filmmakers kicked off the festival, then writer/director Lulu Wang shifted the event into high gear. Anticipation for the opening night screening of THE FAREWELL built steadily as both Wang and lead actress Awkwafina made red carpet appearances.

Wang and Awkwafina introduce The Farewell.

Lulu Wang and Awkwafina jump onstage afterwards for a Q&A.

After the iconic duo excitingly introduced the movie, THE FAREWELL immediately grasped the entire audience with its beautiful cinematography. However, the narrative was what truly kept us engrossed in the film throughout its 98 minute runtime. By juggling relatable themes of identity and cultural heritage with humor and wit, the film provided an authentic glimpse into a Chinese family's unique struggle to cope with the impending loss of a beloved family member.

Wang and Awkwafina returned to the stage after the film’s conclusion for an insightful Q&A; Wang divulged how her family inspired the film, and Awkwafina shared her on set experience with the crowd.

Georgia Film Award Winning Film: RECKONING

It was only the third day of the festival and the streets of Ponce and Highland came to halt when filmmakers Ruckus and Lane Skye graced the Plaza Theatre with their feature film, RECKONING. The line wrapped around the building with audience members lining up for the film hours before the start of the film. Ruckus and Lane along with the cast of the film arrived smoothly, just in time for some red carpet photos and interviews. Georgia is definitely proud to be the home of such talented and humble filmmakers.

Lane and Ruckus Skye bring the cast of RECKONING to ATLFF.

Joe Berlinger Wins Inaugural Originator Award

Joe Berlinger visits the red carpet.

Following up immediately after RECKONING, Joe Berlinger dropped in for an appearance. Before screening his new film, EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL AND VILE, ATLFF presented its first ever Originator Award to director Joe Berlinger. With an illustrious filmography including the lauded and catalytic PARADISE LOST, the award celebrates Berlinger’s career in the spirit of originators like Burt Reynolds, Jermaine Dupri, and Tyler Perry--those who set out to do things unlike anything anyone’s ever done before. Humbly accepting the award, Berlinger unveiled his love for Atlanta and eventually dedicated the award to the late Bruce Sinofsky, with whom he managed to change the face of documentary filmmaking.

You can stream EXTREMELY WICKED, SHOCKINGLY EVIL, AND VILE on Netflix here.

Creative Conference

Jen West (left most) talks directing with documentarians (left to right) Tim O’Donnell, Kristian Melom, Giovanna Giovanini, and James Martin.

Because there are so many factors and moving parts within the filmmaking process, there is always something new to learn. Creative Conference kicked off bright and early, Monday morning. Individuals looking to hone their craft at ATLFF ‘19 looked no further than the Creative Conference. Comprised of 40 educational events designed to disperse knowledge from the industry’s professionals to the aspiring filmmaker throughout the week, the conference covered nearly every stage of the process.

Linda Burns (left) and Tom Luse (right) share a conversation.

Through free-flowing conversations with actors, directors, and producers who’ve found success and panels supplying professional insight, we improved everything from our projects’ initial stories and pitches to their eventual licensing and distribution. The week was filled with gems from local filmmakers to Oscar and Emmy award winning producers.

The Satanic Temple Visits ATLFF

It’s not everyday you’re presented the opportunity to learn about the Satanic Temple from Satanists themselves, but this Wednesday was the day! HAIL SATAN?!, a delightfully off-kilter documentary feature by acclaimed documentarian Penny Lane, explores one of, if not the most controversial religious movements in American history. In chronicling the rise of the widely misunderstood Satanic Temple, the film sheds light on the religion’s true cause and noble intentions. Lane characterizes the Temple by characterizing its members, specifically Lucien Greaves. Greaves’ made-for-camera personality and Lane’s emphasis of irony inject the film with a humor that left the entire audience with split sides. However, the night didn’t end when the film did; once the credits rolled, members of the front row introduced themselves as part of the Atlanta Chapter of The Satanic Temple! Three stepped onto the Dad’s Garage stage to take questions from the audience, revealing a deeper, self-reflexive view of the Temple.

SOUND+VISION

WHOAA treat SOUND+VISION to an unforgettable performance.

Jacob Velcoff leaves his mark on ATLFF’ 19.

Having missed it during ATLFF ‘18, this year’s festival saw the mid-week event return with something for everyone. Complete with live performances from WHOAA and Jacob Velcoff, SOUND+VISION brought together virtual reality films, music videos, and food providing a near sensory overload. ATLFF took over! Free and open to the public along the Eastside Trail of the Atlanta BeltLine and the Historic Fourth Ward Park, the event provided an opportunity for families and friends to celebrate a wonderful evening with beautiful art and delicious food.

Awards Brunch Recap

Filmmakers from all over the globe gathered to receive awards and recognition for their tremendous films.

Jocelyn DeBoer and Dawn Luebbe snatch Best Narrative Feature.

Tomer Heymann takes home Special Jury Award.

Best Narrative Feature – GREENER GRASS

Best Documentary Feature – THE FOURTH KINGDOM (EL CUARTO REINO)

Best Narrative Short - SIRENE

Best Documentary Short – KAMALI

Best Animated Short – HENRIETTA BULKOWSKI

Georgia Film Award – RECKONING

*For full list of awards click here.

Closing Night Presentation: THEM THAT FOLLOW

All good things must come to an end, and when they do, it’s usually depressing. Yet, the end of ATLFF ‘19 was more joyous than sad, because it brought with it the festival’s trademark closing night festivities. The 43rd annual Atlanta Film Festival concluded with a showing of THEM THAT FOLLOW. As the first feature film from writer/directors Britt Poulton and Dan Madison Savage, the star-studded film memorably closed out the already unforgettable festival.

ATLFF Alum Tim Hall is Back With His Third Feature LANDLOCKED

ATLFF Alum and 2017 Georgia Film Award winner (BORN RIVER BYE) Tim Hall is back with another southern homegrown feature. Hall currently is raising funds for his third feature, LANDLOCKED which he is shooting locally in Smyrna and St. Simons.

Synopsis

Landlocked tells the story of Nick, who reunites with his estranged, transgender father to scatter his mother's ashes off the coast of Georgia. Set against the backdrop of the 2016 U.S. presidential election, LANDLOCKED subtly and thoughtfully examines the Evangelical church's tenuous relationship with marginalized communities as dramatized through the fraught family dynamics of Nick and Briana.

Told on a scale that's both intimate and personal, the film charts a course across the American Southeast, where its two main characters must come to terms with the rocky emotional terrain of their pasts. As they approach their coastal destination, and their complicated family history comes into full view, Nick and Briana are faced with the difficult task of determining a new path forward.

Congratulations Are in Order for ATLFF Screenplay Competition Alumni Pearse Lehane!

Two-time alumni ATLFF, Pearse Lehane, recently optioned his 2017 ATLFF Feature Screenplay Winner The Lean to a producer he met through the new screenwriting website Coverfly.

A London based writer, Lehane is a two-time winner, one-time finalist at ATLFF. He won for his feature screenplays Killbook in 2015 and The Lean in 2017, while placing as a pilot finalist in 2016 for Janus.

Lehane has found success at multiple screenwriting competitions including those run by Screencraft and WeScreenplay. This is the first screenplay he’s optioned through Coverfly. A screenplay hosting and competition platform, Coverfly serves as a place for screenplays to connect with producers (think black list but free) and a submission platform for many industry competitions. Screenplays hosted on the site can opt-in to a ranking system dependent on their performance in competitions and reviews from sites such as the Blacklist.

Thanks to wins at competitions like ours, The Lean is currently ranked second on Coverfly’s Red List. Producers on Coverfly can see the red list, download screenplays, and contact writers they’re interested in.

We look forward to receiving more works from Lehane in the future, and we wish him the best on his career venture! This is only the beginning. 

Atlanta Film Festival Announces First 15 Films From 2018 Lineup

ATLANTA, GA — Leading up to the 42nd annual Atlanta Film Festival & Creative Conference (ATLFF), taking place April 13-22, 2018, the Atlanta FIlm Society is pleased to announce the first wave of film programming. This selection comprises 15 works in both feature length and short form across narrative, documentary, pilot episode, music video, animation, puppetry, experimental and virtual reality categories.

“One of the most beautiful things about independent film is that it allows creators who may be shut out of the Hollywood machine to tell their own stories and make their voices heard,” said ATLFF Programming Director Alyssa Armand. “As we approach our 42nd year, we look forward to continuing to provide a platform for the alternative by showcasing films that you rarely get to see on the big screen, but that absolutely deserve to be there.”

This group of fifteen films comes from a new ATLFF record of 6,650 film submissions. Hailing from Canada, Iran, Pakistan, South Africa, Suriname, Swaziland, Turkey, UK and USA, these films represent the inclusive and far-reaching breadth of the forthcoming complete lineup. Last year, more than 50% of ATLFF’s film program was directed by women and nearly 40% was directed by filmmakers of color.

Of the 15 films, six are directed by ATLFF alumni. Two Georgia-lensed films are included in the first wave, narrative feature “Still,” directed by Takashi Doscher, and Virtual Reality short film “Lá Camila,” directed by Jak Wilmot. Shot in Swaziland and directed by Aaron Kopp and Amanda Kopp, “Liyana” blends a rich animated tale told by five orphans with observational scenes of their reality. Documentary short film “Nuuca,” directed by Michelle Latimer, is a powerful look at the correlation between land exploitation and violence against Indigenous women and girls in North Dakota.

These films will be joined by nearly 200 others for the 2018 Atlanta Film Festival, taking place April 13 - 22, 2018.

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Narrative Feature

Disappearance

directed by Ali Asgari
Iran, 2017, Persian, 88 minutes
In the course of one cold night in Tehran, two young lovers go from hospital to hospital in search of help. Soon they will have to face the tragic consequences of their youthful naivety.

Never Steady, Never Still

directed by Kathleen Hepburn
Canada, 2017, English, 111 minutes
Having lived with Parkinson’s disease for almost two decades, Judy (Shirley Henderson) is faced with the heightened challenges of daily life when her husband and caregiver dies of a sudden heart attack on their isolated property on the shores of Stuart Lake. Meanwhile, her teenage son Jamie (Théodore Pellerin), pushed by his father to get a job on the oil fields, is terrified by the idea of filling his shoes at too young an age, and grappling with the daunting task of becoming a man in world that has no apparent room for weakness.
#NewMavericks

Still

directed by Takashi Doscher
USA, 2018, English, 88 minutes
Sick, dehydrated, and lost, Lily (Madeline Brewer) quite literally falls on the doorstep of Ella (Lydia Wilson) and Adam (Nick Blood) who own and operate a secret distillery in the middle of the Appalachian mountains. However, as Lily begins to recover she starts to notice stranger and stranger things about the couple: Despite their youthful appearance, everything they own appears to be decades old. Although they live on a beautiful farm, there are no livestock and no crops. She notices how they secretly slip away into the woods, carrying glass jugs of water with them. Most alarming, however, is that there seems to be a great rift, a deep emotional strain, between them—as if they are an old married couple who gradually fell out of love as time went on. As Lily delves deeper and deeper into the lives of this mysterious yet beautiful couple, she is soon caught in the middle of their conflict—a heartbreaking power struggle literally a century in the making. Lily will soon learn how the couple came upon this property and the deep and powerful secret they have been protecting all of these years.
#Georgia

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Documentary Feature

Armed with Faith

directed by Geeta Gandbhir and Asad Faruqi
USA/Pakistan, 2017, Pashto//Urdu, 74 minutes
“Armed with Faith” follows the men of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Bomb Disposal Unit (KPK BDU) to the front lines of the war against Al-Qaeda and the Taliban in Pakistan. The border province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa—considered the gateway for terrorists from neighboring Afghanistan and adjacent tribal areas—is the backdrop of our film. The battle for control of this porous border area remains critical to the stability of Pakistan and global security. Should Pakistan, a nuclear power, fall into the hands of terrorists, the entire world is at risk. We witness firsthand the dangerous struggle undertaken by the men of the KPK BDU to protect their country against the Taliban threat in the land they both call home.

Liyana

directed by Aaron Kopp and Amanda Kopp
USA/Swaziland, 2017, English/siSwati, 77 minutes
A Swazi girl embarks on a dangerous quest to rescue her young twin brothers. This animated African tale is born in the imaginations of five orphaned children in Swaziland who collaborate to tell a story of perseverance drawn from their darkest memories and brightest dreams. Their fictional character’s journey is interwoven with poetic and observational documentary scenes to create a genre-defying celebration of the transformative power of storytelling.

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Narrative Short

Arlo Alone

directed by Nicole Dorsey
Canada, 2017, English, 16:19
“Arlo Alone” is a futuristic drama that follows Arlo, a young woman, as she comes to terms with her own loneliness in a world where in-person contact has become a rarity.
#NewMavericks

Laws of the Game

directed by Aegina Brahim
Suriname/UK, 2017, Dutch, 17:54
Zeola is a single mother whose life alternates between her job as a prison guard and her career as a football referee in the men’s league. In her attempt to obtain the international FIFA Badge in an official referee test, Zeola is confronted not only with her own insecurities, but also with the unfairness of the world around her.
#NewMavericks

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Documentary Short

Carry My Voice

directed by Hasan Demirtaş
Turkey, 2017, Kurdish, 19:00
Carry My Voice is about the division of Kurdish lands after World War I. The documentary focuses on Syria and Turkey borders and how these new borders have affected the lives of Kurdish people.

Nuuca

directed by Michelle Latimer
USA/Canada, 2017, English/Hidatsa, 12:00
An evocative meditation on Indigenous women’s integral connection to land and the ways in which the extractive industry’s exploitation of the earth is linked to the violence perpetrated against Indigenous women and girls.
#NewMavericks

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Animated Short

Nevada

directed by Emily Ann Hoffman
USA, 2017, English, 12:00
A young couple's romantic weekend getaway is interrupted by a birth control mishap in this stop motion animated comedy.
#NewMavericks

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Virtual Reality Short

Lá Camila

directed by Jak Wilmot
USA, 2017, English, 20:00
When the storms of nature threaten her very existence, the viewer must help a young shepherd girl fill the shoes of her deceased papá.
#Georgia

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Puppetry Short

You Can't Play With Us

directed by Jason Rhein, created by Serene Bacigalupi and Jacques Duffourc
USA, 2018, English, 15:00
Rapping unicorns? A dinosaur inventor? A marshmallow avalanche? Experience a new fairy tale from the imaginative world of Leroy’s Place. Built entirely from cardboard and other recycled materials, this endearing short film in puppetry tells a story of overcoming bullying. In a world where dinosaurs eat unicorns for every meal, Delux the dino refuses to eat the magical creatures and sets out to befriend them instead. When the inquisitive dinosaur happens upon some musical unicorns in Marshmallow Mountain, they aren’t as friendly as he expects. It’s not always easy to make new friends, especially when they think you are going to eat them, but Delux uses his unique skills to make the sassy unicorns take a second look. This film is intended for all ages.

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Experimental Short

Royal Jelly

directed by Stephanie Burbano
Canada, 2017, English, 9:52
The film begins in abstraction—we meet a drag queen who invites us down the rabbit hole to meet a menagerie of people that make up her community.
#PinkPeach

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Pilot Episode

Manic

directed by Kate Marks
USA, 2016, English, 17:00
Aurora, an overachieving teen with Ivy League dreams, finds herself locked in with a crazy band of misfits when she's sent to Greener Pastures Therapeutic School. Convinced it's all a mistake, she fights the system and makes a break for freedom—only to be faced with the truth about why she was committed there in the first place.
#NewMavericks

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Music Video

Biggest Curse (performed by Original Swimming Party feat. Moonchild Sanelly)

directed by Amy Allais
South Africa, 2017, English, 4:27
Fundamentally it’s about who gets to eat the cake, and who doesn’t. About the back rooms in many South African houses. And busting through those. But it’s also about childhood, and how easy it is to make friends.

Malcolm Washington is the 2017 ATLFF Filmmaker-to-Watch!

The Atlanta Film Festival established the Filmmaker-to-Watch Award in 2014 to give our Kickstarter Backers Jury—a segment of contributors to our annual Kickstarter campaigns—the opportunity to spotlight a filmmaker from whom they're excited to see more. 

This year, Malcolm Washington has been awarded the honor for his film "Benny Got Shot."

"We were thrilled to see how much ‘Benny Got Shot’ resonated with our Backers Jury this year,” said ATLFF Film Programming Director Alyssa Armand. “With this film, Malcolm has established himself as a remarkable new talent who has what we're sure will be a long career ahead of him. We truly can't wait to see what he makes next."

Check out Malcolm's reaction:

"Benny Got Shot" screens as part of the TIES THAT BIND block on Friday, March 31 at 7:00 PM at Druid Hills Presbyterian Church and will screen again during the Award-Winning Shorts Encore on Sunday, April 2 at 7:45 PM at Druid Hills Presbyterian Church.

DAVE MADE A MAZE Set to Open Up the 41st Atlanta Film Festival!

directed by Bill Watterson
USA, 2017, English, 81 minutes

Friday, March 24, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Downstairs

In a struggling attempt to create something of significance, Dave builds a fort in his living room where he falls victim to his own creation. Now trapped in a world filled with booby traps and fantastical pitfalls, Dave advises his girlfriend against entering the ever-changing mythical world to save him. —Kevon Pryce

Director Bill Watterson and select cast and crew members scheduled to attend.

#Narrative #Animation #Marquee #Puppetry

The Opening Night Party (sponsored by Moonshine Post-Production) will be held from 9 PM - 12 AM at Paris on Ponce—open to all Opening Night ticket-holders, as well as FILMMAKER, PRODUCER and ALL-ACCESS badge-holders (includes INDUSTRY, PRESS and WEEKEND 1). Wristbands for the afterparty will be distributed at the screening.
 

DAVE MADE A MAZE and the Opening Night Party sponsored by:

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Atlanta Film Festival Announces 2017 Lineup of Features and Short Films

ATLANTA, GA (February 24, 2017)  — The Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) is pleased to announce the lineup of feature length and short film programming for the 41st annual celebration that will take place March 24 – April 2, 2017. In addition to the announced lineup of 163 films, the ten-day event will be highlighted with Opening and Closing Night Presentations, 40 Creative Conference events and 12 unique Special Presentations. 

Of the record-breaking 6,000+ film submissions for the 2017 festival, the final selections include 47 feature length films, 116 short films and 28 creative media presentations, which consist of music videos, virtual reality and episodic pilots. The diverse slate represents 40 countries, with 53% of selected submissions directed by a female and 40% from filmmaker(s) of color.

Christopher Escobar, ATLFF Executive Director said, "Coming off a record-setting 40th Anniversary event in 2016, we are entering our fifth decade with programming that represents our long-term commitment to celebrate filmmakers and audiences of all backgrounds. We are especially proud to be a festival that highlights diverse voices, while also emphasizing the important role that our city plays in the film and television community by holding our events at places unique to Atlanta.”

In addition to the film lineup announced today, information on Opening Night, Closing Night, additional Marquee screenings and Special Presentations, which include annual fest favorites like Food on Film and SOUND + VISION, as well as the Creative Conference educational programming, is forthcoming.  

The Atlanta Film Festival is the annual centerpiece of educational and enriching film programing that is provided year-round by parent organization, the Atlanta Film Society.

Passes for the festival are available for purchase now.

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2017 ATLANTA FILM FESTIVAL LINEUP

If a selected film will be included in a specialty track or falls into a distinctive category, it is noted with brief designation following the synopsis. Films identified as New Mavericks feature a strong, female lead seen through the lens of a female filmmaker. The Pink Peach track shines a spotlight on LGBTQ narrative features, documentary features and short films. The CineMás track highlights Latin American films and filmmakers. Productions with an Atlanta and/or Georgia connection are noted as well.

NARRATIVE FEATURES

Ann

Directed by Carla Forte

USA, 2016, Spanish/English, 79 minutes

Friday, March 30, 2017, 9:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Ruben, a visual artist, is tormented by his reality. He copes by retreating into his vivid imagination; creating a parallel world unlike his own. As his alternate world becomes more attractive, Ruben becomes more disconnected from the material world, societal norms, and emotional attachments. He must come to terms with reality after this disconnect and subsequent loss of ego.

#CineMás, #Competition, #PinkPeach

Born River Bye

Directed by Tim Hall

USA, 2017, English 84 minutes

Friday, March 31, 2017, 9:30 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Two childhood friends reunite in their sleepy hometown as they each face a crossroads in their lives. Scott is drifting through town (and life) after a long departure, much like a ghost to haunt his estranged family and friends. Laura, still stuck in their hometown, is living in a stagnant reality of mediocrity out of fear of following her dreams. Both feel superior to those around them, and yet experience an overwhelming unhappiness with their choices. As the days unfold, Scott and Laura begin to turn a new leaf, forgiving themselves for their past, making amends, and looking to their futures with renewed optimism.

#Georgia, #WorldPremiere

The Boss Baby

Directed by Tom McGrath

USA, 2017, English

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 2:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

DreamWorks Animation and the director of Madagascar invite you to meet a most unusual baby.  He wears a suit, speaks with the voice and wit of Alec Baldwin, and stars in the animated comedy, DreamWorks’ The Boss Baby.  The Boss Baby is a hilariously universal story about how a new baby's arrival impacts a family, told from the point of view of a delightfully unreliable narrator, a wildly imaginative 7 year old named Tim.  With a sly, heart-filled message about the importance of family, DreamWorks’ The Boss Baby is an authentic and broadly appealing original comedy for all ages.  

#FamilyFriendly, #Marquee

Chee and T

Directed by Tanuj Chopra

USA, 2017, English, 80 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Two friends working as collectors for a family crime ring are assigned what proves to be their most challenging task yet—delivering the indifferent, drug-induced nephew of their boss to an event across town. As the three men cruise to their various destinations in a pale blue hot rod, they encounter more than they bargained for and find themselves caught in a web of politics, drugs, love, and their own moral values.

Cherry Pop

Directed by Assaad Yacoub

USA, 2016, English, 77 minutes

Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 9:15 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Drag Queens encounter an outsider and must face their own baggage during a wild night at a failing drag club. The quirky group of patrons, family, friends, and lovers experience heartache, betrayal, and acceptance through a bizarre series of events. The night begins like any other and ends with celebration of both beginnings and endings as the queens and those in attendance learn to set aside their differences and embrace what unites them. 
#PinkPeach

Children of the Mountain

Directed by Priscilla Anany

Ghana/USA, 2016, Ewe/Akan, 101 minutes

Monday, March 27, 2017, 7:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Caught between love for her child and respect for her culture, a mother confronts the social stigma of special needs. When her child is born with a cleft lip, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome, Essuman’s future becomes bleak. As her community disowns her and her baby, she is faced with a decision—abandon her child or defy society. She turns to the rural mountains of Ghana as she searches for answers and salvation.   

#NewMavericks

دم سرد (Cold Breath)

Directed by Abbas Raziji

Iran, 2017, Persian, 83 minutes

Monday, March 27, 2017, 9:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Born a woman and living as a man, 30-year-old Maryam struggles in conforming to societal gender norms. She is living paycheck to paycheck when her daughter succumbs to cancer and she must find a way to pay for treatment. Trusting in love for survival, Maryam faces her greatest fears head on when her secret is revealed.

#PinkPeach, #WorldPremiere

Cortez            

Directed by Cheryl Nichols

USA, 2016, English, 99 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 5:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Jesse—a misguided musician—finds his way to the town of Cortez where he will face old love and new relationships. Anne—a woman from his past—will teach him a little something about what happens when a rockstar lifestyle meets responsibility and how re-creating oneself doesn't always mean saying goodbye to adventure.

#Competition

Dean

Directed by Demetri Martin

USA, 2016, English, 87 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 9:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Dean (Demetri Martin) is an illustrator whose unwillingness to deal with the recent death of his mother means escaping his hometown of New York for an interview with an ad agency in Los Angeles. His retired engineer dad Robert (Kevin Kline) takes a more regimented approach to grief, including putting the family home up for sale. Both father and son set out on their own paths to find a new normal as unexpected circumstances and potential new love interests threaten to thwart all plans.

#Marquee

Everything But a Man          

Directed by Nnegest Likké

USA, 2016, English, 110 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 2:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Vanessa is a self-made career woman who seems to have everything going for her, but there is one element of a happy life that continues to elude her: Love. Could Max, a mysterious, French-speaking foreigner be the one to change her luck? His lifestyle is so different from hers, yet these differences could be just what Vanessa needs: a challenge to her fixed notions of love, relationships and what being a strong woman really means. This 3rd feature from writer-director Nnegest Likké explores romance and self-discovery from a bold, intelligent, female perspective—and it might just provoke the rest of us to question our idea of personal success.

#NewMavericks

Holden On

Directed by Tamlin Hall

USA, 2017, English, 102 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 11:45 AM — Plaza Theatre, Main

No longer your average boy-next-door, Holden Layfield weaves audiences through his harrowing tale in this film set in the early 1990s. After succumbing to a secret battle with mental illness, Holden evolves from a beloved, small town Georgia football player to a lost, self-medicating prophet.

#Georgia, #WorldPremiere

In the Radiant City

Directed by Rachel Lambert

USA, 2016, English, 95 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 12:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

After 20 years away, Andrew Yurley returns to his hometown in Kentucky to play key-witness in his brother's resentencing. Having lived with the remorse of his statement—which put his brother away for life—Andrew must now face an angry sister, a doped-up mother, and countless degrading town folk, thanks to his niece, Beth. In the midst of dealing with lawyers and the case, Andrew must now answer the question—can what is broken ever be put back together again?

#Competition

La Soledad

Directed by Jorge Thielen Armand

Venezuela/Italy/Canada, 2016, Spanish, 89 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 2:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Capturing the life of real people amidst the Venezuelan crisis, “La Soledad” is the story of José, a young father who discovers that the dilapidated mansion he inhabits will soon be demolished. Desperate to save his family, José begins a search for a cursed treasure that is said to be buried in the house.

#CineMás, #Competition        

The Lost City of Z

Directed by James Gray

USA, 2016, English, 140 minutes

Thursday, March 30, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Based on author David Grann’s nonfiction bestseller, “The Lost City of Z” tells the incredible true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett (Charlie Hunnam), who journeys into the Amazon at the dawn of the 20th century and discovers evidence of a previously unknown, advanced civilization that may have once inhabited the region. Despite being ridiculed by the scientific establishment who regard indigenous populations as ‘savages,’ the determined Fawcett — supported by his devoted wife (Sienna Miller), son (Tom Holland) and aide-de-camp (Robert Pattinson) — returns time and again to his beloved jungle in an attempt to prove his case, culminating in his mysterious disappearance in 1925.

#Marquee

No Light and No Land Anywhere

Directed by Amber Sealey

USA, 2016, English, 75 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 4:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Grieving her mother’s death and her own failing marriage, Lexi boards a plane from London to Los Angeles in search of the estranged father. Based out of a seedy Hollywood motel, she follows a tenuous trail of breadcrumbs, beginning with his aging former in-laws, collecting numbers and addresses in the hopes that one will lead to her father. Along the way, she establishes other unexpected connections: her father's ailing former second wife, her bitter half-sister Tanya and her caregiver girlfriend, and two local barflies.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer

Directed by Joseph Cedar

USA/Israel, 2016, English, 117 minutes

Sunday, April 2, 2017, 2:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Norman Oppenheimer (Richard Gere) only wants to matter. Living a lonely life in the shadow of power and money, he uses any angle or connection to put himself in a position of significance. He is an opportunist, just not a very good one. Until he finally bets on the right horse by buying a pair of expensive shoes for Micha Eshel (Lior Ashkenazi), a lowly Israeli politician. When Micha becomes Prime Minister, Norman finds himself in the center of a geopolitical drama beyond anything he could have imagined. 

#Marquee

San Fu Tian (Dog Days)

Directed by Jordan Schiele

China, 2016, Mandarin Chinese (Changsha dialect), 95 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 4:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Struggling to support her family as a dancer, Lulu comes home one night to an empty apartment. Desperate to find her missing husband and child, Lulu tracks down drag queen, Sunny, to aid her on her quest. After a night of high-running tensions, Sunny only agrees to help on the journey around China if Lulu promises not to turn her husband, Bailong, over to the police. Despite the agreement, Lulu decides to take matters into her own hands and some secrets come to light.

#Competition, #PinkPeach

The Scent of Rain & Lightning

Directed by Blake Robbins

USA, 2017, English, 103 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

After learning her parents' killer has been released from prison, Jody Linder must revisit old wounds, face suppressed memories, expose family secrets, and learn what happens in a life of hate.

#WorldPremiere

Sylvio

Directed by Albert Birney & Kentucker Audley

USA, 2017, English, 80 minutes

Monday, March 27, 2017, 8:00 PM — Dad's Garage

It's the story of a small town gorilla, Sylvio, who is stuck in his job at a debt collection agency. Deep down he just wants to express himself with his hand puppet, Herbert Herpels, and his experimental puppet show that highlights the quiet moments of life.

#Marquee

Teenage Love Bomb

Directed by Mads Erichsen

Denmark, 2016, Danish, 84 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 5:30p - Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Thomas is working his way through the seventh grade, lives in Denmark with his mom and brother, and occasionally maintains a relationship with his cop father. A unique set of skills allows him to team up with his crush, school bad-girl Vikki, and her band of misfit friends (and Vikki's boyfriend) to blow up their teacher's bike. All's fair in love and war.

The 12 Lives of Sissy Carlyle

Directed by Fran Burst-Terranella

USA, 2017, English, 87 minutes

Monday, March 27, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Sissy writes in her journals about the life she wants as she finds her reality less than interesting. With the help of her brother and some newly-found friends, Sissy starts creating a life worth living.

#Georgia, #NewMavericks, #WorldPremiere

Wexford Plaza

Directed by Joyce Wong

Canada, 2017, English, 82 minutes
Friday, March 31, 2017, 7:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs
The daily occurrences within Wexford Plaza uncover what it means for 20-year-old Betty to explore love whilst maintaining her job as a security guard. A cohabiter of the Wexford Plaza, Danny, weaves his way into Betty's life, and both parties need to decide where their priorities lie and at what cost they come. 

#Competition, #NewMavericks

A Woman, A Part

Directed by Elisabeth Surbin

USA, 2016, English, 98 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 7:30 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

At the peak of her acting career, Anna decides she no longer wants to continue the profession despite facing a potential lawsuit. She impulsively flies to New York to revisit the past life she left behind. Upon reconnecting with former friends, she learns that they have used her as the inspiration for a character in a stage play.

#NewMavericks, #PinkPeach

Wonder Valley

Directed by Heidi Hartwig

USA, 2017, English, 72 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 9:45 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

When Karian plans a weekend getaway with her new best friend Cloudy, she is upset to find out that Cloudy has invited her childhood friend, Sasha, a has-been actress, to join them. Tensions escalate quickly after the girls decide to take daturas, a dangerous psychotropic drug that blurs the line between real and imaginary. When Karian makes a chilling discovery during a hike, no one believes her, leading to a final show down between her and Sasha.

#NewMavericks, #WorldPremiere

Your Ride Is Here

Directed by Fraser Jones

USA, 2017, English, 58 minutes

Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 8:00 PM — Dad's Garage

An Uber veteran and a talkative rookie take on a night of driving each other mad through the streets of Nashville. Throughout the night, passengers find solace within the confines of the vehicle, and break down walls only approached in late hours amongst the comfort of strangers. 

#Georgia, #WorldPremiere

The Zookeeper’s Wife

Directed by Niki Caro

UK/USA/Czech Republic/New Zealand, 2017, English, 126 minutes

Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

In 1939 Poland, Antonina Zabinska (Jessica Chastain) and her husband, Dr. Jan Zabinski (Johan Heldenbergh), have the Warsaw Zoo flourishing under his stewardship and her care. When their country is invaded by the Germans, Jan and Antonina are stunned and forced to report to the Reich's newly appointed chief zoologist, Lutz Heck (Daniel Brühl). To fight back on their own terms, the Zabinskis covertly begin working with the Resistance and put into action plans to save lives out of what has become the Warsaw Ghetto, with Antonina putting herself and even her children at great risk.

#NewMavericks, #Marquee

DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

Atlan

Directed by Moein Karimoddini

Iran, 2015, Farsi, 62 minutes

Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 9:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

A Turkman horse trainer, Ali, plans to spend his life-long prize winnings on his wedding. When some life events head south, Ali must take the reigns and participate in this revered Iranian sport through the northern Sahara in order to guarantee a successful marriage.

City of Joy

Directed by Madeleine Gavin

Democratic Republic of Congo, 2016, Swahili/French/English, 76 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 2:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

A tale of hope and restoration unfolds in “City of Joy,” a film that follows students at a leadership center in the Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo. Despite the horrific abuse they have endured, this first class of women comes together as a community of leaders to positively revolutionize a place long deemed by many as hopeless.

#NewMavericks

Death by a Thousand Cuts

Directed by Juan Mejia Botero & Jake Kheel

USA/Dominican Republic, 2016, Spanish/Haitian Kreyòl, 73 minutes

Monday, March 27, 2017, 9:30 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Showcasing the tension between Haitians and Dominicans over charcoal, “Death by a Thousand Cuts” focuses on the investigation into the death of a Dominican Park Ranger, Melaneo. Melaneo was found brutally murdered by a machete in the Sierra de Bahoruco National Park, after he was investigating the illegal charcoal production. The film sheds light on the deforestation in the Dominican Republic, and the relationship between the murder weapon and Dominican trees being chopped.

#CineMás

Dwa światy (Two Worlds)

Directed by Maciej Adamek

Poland, 2016, Polish, 51 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 12:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

As the only member of her family with the ability to hear, 12-year-old Laura guides viewers in this inspiring family portrait. The challenges she faces are surprising and unusual. As their story unfolds, the strength of their love in light of the challenges they face allows the viewers to confront a reality otherwise unknown to them.

#FamilyFriendly, #NewMavericks

Farewell Ferris Wheel

Directed by Jamie Sisley & Miguel "M.i.G." Martinez

USA/Mexico, 2016, English/ Spanish, 71 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 2:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

In the United States, tens of thousands of migrant workers are displaced from their once-reliable sources of income due to adjusted labor laws and as a result of H-2B labor abuse. “Farewell Ferris Wheel” spends six years uncovering the experiences of various legal Mexican migrant workers from one small town that predominantly works with carnivals. The adjustment of these laws could mean the end of carnival festivities nation-wide, despite the 200-year history in America. 

#CineMás

The House on Coco Road

Directed by Damani Baker

USA/Grenada, 2016, English, 79 minutes

Sunday, April 2, 2017, 12:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

“The House on Coco Road” depicts the times and trials of Fannie Haughton, an activist and teacher who moves her children from Oakland, California to participate in the Grenada Revolution, unknowingly amidst a US military invasion. Her son's search for truth to confirm Fannie's place in American history is this beautifully painted homage to family, nationalism, freedom, and the dream of a better world.

#Competition

Jackson

Directed by Maisie Crow

USA, 2016, English, 92 minutes

Friday, March 31, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Forty-five percent of all pregnancies in the USA are unplanned, and one in three women will have an abortion in her lifetime. And yet, the battle for women's access to reproductive healthcare is far from over. Inside the last remaining abortion clinic in Mississippi, “Jackson” is an intimate, first-of-its-kind look at the issues, through the voices of women in the Deep South who stand on both sides of the debate.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

La Selva Negra (The Modern Jungle)

Directed by Charles Fairbanks & Saul Kak

Mexico/USA, 2016, Spanish/Zoque, 72 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 12:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

An intimate portrait of Zoque culture is painted through the fever dream of a Mexican shaman. The film highlights their challenges in the midst of increasing globalization and fetishization of commodities, while addressing the predicament of documentary. The shaman's financial hardship and hopes of a better future emotionally engage viewers as the film unapologetically explores its subject.

#CineMás, #Competition

League of Exotique Dancers

Directed by Rama Rau

Canada, 2016, English, 91 minutes

Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 9:30 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

With a blast of brassy jazz and a spin through the glitz of modern Las Vegas, League of Exotique Dancers sets the stage for a provocative and eye-opening “backstage tour” of the golden age of Burlesque through the colourful lives of unforgettable women who made it glitter.

#NewMavericks

Mele Murals

Directed by Tadashi Nakamura

USA, 2016, English, 66 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 5:45 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

“Mele Murals” follows the stories of two renowned street artists, Estria Miyashiro (AKA Estria) and John Hina (AKA Prime), as they attempt to express their knowledge of the last 20 years in Hawaii and discover cultural identities through street art. This documentary emphasizes the artists' desires to unite their communities and educate the public on modern mural-making and traditional Hawaiian culture.

Milwaukee 53206

Directed by Keith McQuirter

USA, 2016, English, 55 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 12:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Milwaukee 53206: America's most incarcerated ZIP code. Three powerful characters relate their experiences of incarceration and how prison shaped their lives, families, and community. This film exposes the challenges a community faces when fighting to move forward despite a history of poverty, unemployment, and lack of opportunity, and how these factors sustain the crisis of mass incarceration in this region and across the nation.

Mr. Chibbs

Directed by Jill Campbell

USA, 2017, English, 90 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 4:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

A retired professional athlete faces unexpected challenges in his post-athletic world. As life continues, Kenny Anderson discovers basketball did not prepare him for all facets of reality. The former New York City high-school prodigy and NBA All-Star confronts loss in its many forms and subsequently finds himself lost. Facing his personal demons head-on, the charismatic Anderson must come to terms with his past in order to find a way forward.

#FamilyFriendly, #Georgia

Não Deixe a Peteca Cair (Bad’ & the Birdieman)

Directed by Lili Fialho & Kátia Lund

Brazil/USA, 2016, Portuguese, 50 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 12:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Sebastião’s goal is to use badminton as a tool of escape for the kids in his community of Chacrinha, Rio de Janeiro. The kids enjoy playing the sport but lose at every competition, despite Sebastião’s vision for the kids to become champions. With love, hard work and dedication, the badminton team became qualifiers for the 2016 Olympic Games.

#CineMás, #FamilyFriendly

The Nine

Directed by Katy Grannan

USA, 2016, English, 98 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 2:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

The Nine is a no-man’s land where rules of polite society do not apply; a resting place for those who have relinquished the American dream. This emotional documentary unearths the stories of those living along the Nine in Modesto, an area in California's Central Valley devastated by the Great Depression. In a city with no hope, Kiki, exploited by personal trauma, is a rare bright light whose magnetic optimism is a means of self-preservation. Her childlike enthusiasm belies the stark reality of her Darwinian existence, emphasizing the beauty of those who fall by the wayside.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

Preso

Directed by Ana Tipa

Uruguay, 2016, Spanish/Portuguese, 92 minutes

Saturday, March 25, 2017, 7:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Miguel, a hard working family man, must come to terms with his double life. He frequently crosses the border of Uruguay and Brazil to ensure both of his families are taken care of. As his internal struggle thrives, he must find enough courage to tell them the truth.

#CineMás

Raising Bertie

Directed by Margaret Byrne

USA, 2016, English, 102 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 5:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

“Raising Bertie” follows three young African American boys over the course of six years as they grow into adulthood in Bertie County, a rural African American-led community in Eastern North Carolina. Through the intimate portrayal of these boys, this powerful vérité film offers a rare in-depth look at the issues facing America's rural youth and the complex relationships between generational poverty, educational equity, and race. The evocative result is an experience that encourages us to recognize the value and complexity in lives all too often ignored.

#Competition

Rat Film

Directed by Theo Anthony

USA, 2016, English, 82 minutes

Thursday, March 30, 2017, 7:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Across walls, fences, and alleys, rats not only expose our boundaries of separation but make homes in them. "Rat Film" uses the rats—as well as the humans that love them, live with them, and kill them—to explore the history of Baltimore. ‘There's never been a rat problem in Baltimore, it's always been a people problem.’

#Competition

Waiting for B.

Directed by Paulo Cesar Toledo & Abigail Spindel

Brazil, 2016, Portuguese, 72 minutes

Friday, March 31, 2017, 9:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Documented in Brazil, “Waiting for B.” exposes the journey young Beyoncé super-fans undergo in an attempt to be closer to the front of the stage. Lacking the money to buy their way to the front, they camp out in the streets for two months waiting for a chance to be closer to their idol. As their lives intertwine, commonality is found between victims of hype, a community of hope forms, and the contradictions of humility and vanity at the heart of diva worship are explored.

#CineMás, #Competition

Whose Streets?

Directed by Sabaah Folayan & Damon Davis

USA, 2017, English, 103 minutes

Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 9:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Told by the activists and leaders who live and breathe this movement for justice, “Whose Streets?” is an unflinching look at the Ferguson uprising. When unarmed teenager Michael Brown is killed by police and left lying in the street for hours, it marks a breaking point for the residents of St. Louis, Missouri. Grief, long-standing racial tensions and renewed anger bring residents together to hold vigil and protest this latest tragedy. Empowered parents, artists, and teachers from around the country come together as freedom fighters. As the national guard descends on Ferguson with military grade weaponry, these young community members become the torchbearers of a new resistance.

#Marquee

Woman on Fire

Directed by Julie Sokolow

USA, 2016, English, 84 minutes

Sunday, March 26, 2017, 8:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Truly one of New York’s bravest, Brooke Guinan breaks barriers when she becomes the city's first and only transgender firefighter. Guinan reveals her experience of facing adversity while remaining steadfast in her goals. The documentary waxes inspirational as she reflects upon her upbringing, 9/11, and her experiences as a transgender firefighter.

#NewMavericks, #PinkPeach

SHORT FILMS BY BLOCK

AH, MY HOMETOWN
Deeply homegrown documents of Georgia.

Documentary, 77 minutes
Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 7:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main
Presented in partnership with Homespun

Digital Edition | directed by James Kicklighter, USA, 26:02

In the midst of a print revolution, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution experiments with new storytelling tools in the digital era.

#Georgia

Nadia | directed by Erin S Murray, USA, 3:04

A ballerina discusses her relationship with ‘perfection’ and how she finds individuality within the rigorous standards of ballet.

#Georgia, #NewMavericks

7 Days | directed by Rashel Stephenson, USA, 25:12

“7 Days” goes behind the scenes with three organ transplantation surgeons as they turn death into life and desperation into hope.

#Georgia

We the Creators: Daniel Lamb | directed by Babacar Ndiaye, USA, 2:08

“We The Creators” is a documentary series that examines the inner thoughts and processes of a select group of artists.

#Georgia

American Moderate | directed by Jared Callahan, USA, 16:34

A first-time voter from the South struggles to find herself, and a candidate that best represents her, in the 2016 presidential primaries.

#Georgia

APPROPRIATE BEHAVIOR
Unexpected predicaments and the choices that follow.

Narrative, 98 minutes
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 2:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Mother | directed by Simón Mesa Soto, Colombia/Sweden, 14:00

16-year-old Andrea comes down from her poor neighborhood in the hills of Medellín to attend a downtown casting call for a porno film.

#CineMás

Babysitter | directed by Aurit Zamir, Israel, 26:17

One night at Eilat’s babysitting job, during which motherhood and childhood manifest themselves in confusing ways.

#NewMavericks

Retaliation | directed by Ange-Régis Hounkpatin, Benin/France, 25:39

Awa, 18-years-old, goes to class in the military high school of Natitingou. One day, she learns that her father has just been murdered. She has just joined her family in Cotonou when a popular prosecution is put together in order to avenge the memory of the deceased. Facing the helplessness of the police, Awa decides to take part in it.

#Competition

Your Day | directed by Ginger Gonzaga, USA, 31:49

A young couple, Jack and Jane, spend the day at a hotel, seemingly to celebrate Jane's birthday, until we realize they are there for a VERY different reason.

#NewMavericks

A CHAPTER IN HER LIFE
A collection of vignettes by and about women.

Narrative, 91 minutes
Saturday, April 1, 2017, 12:15 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Fract | directed by Georgina Bloomfield, New Zealand, 13:49

A teenage outcast discovers her cast is a friend magnet.

#NewMavericks

Birthday Cake | directed by Brantly Jackson Watts, USA, 17:16

A woman who fled a violent relationship must choose between love and survival on the first anniversary of leaving her abuser.

#Georgia, #NewMavericks

Solatium | directed by Christina Tynkevych, Ukraine/United Kingdom, 10:43
Anna, an ambulance doctor, arrives at a night call which brings back her painful past and challenges her moral compass.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

One Up | directed by Eimi Imanishi, USA, 14:41

Hadley jumps into an uncomfortable sexual encounter after she's brutally rejected by her teammate crush Christine.

#NewMavericks, #PinkPeach

How Far She Went | directed by Ugla Hauksdottir, USA/Iceland, 13:06

An unflinching look at family, personal sacrifice, and the lengths we'll go for those we love.

#NewMavericks

Submarine | directed by Lebanon     0:20:51Mounia Akl      NS       Under the imminent threat of Lebanon’s garbage crisis, Hala, a wild child inside of a woman is the only one to refuse evacuation.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

AN EARTHY PARADISE FOR THE EYES
Sublime imagery creates transcendent experiences.

Narrative & Documentary, 99 minutes
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 4:45 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Limbo | directed by Konstantina Kotzamani, France/Greece, 29:50

The leopard shall lie down with the goat. The wolves shall live with the lambs. And the young boy will lead them. 12+1 kids and the carcass of a whale washed ashore…     

The Offering | directed by Billy Silva & Guille Isa, Peru, 6:42
Two musicians and a dancer make an ancient and sacred offering to the earth.

#CineMás

Wald der Echos (Forest of Echoes) | directed by Luz Olivares Capelle, Austria, 30:00

A teenager, Christina, loses her friends in the forest. Looking for them she finds the bodies of three drowned kids on the shore of a lagoon.

#NewMavericks

The Sleeping Saint | directed by Laura Samani, Italy, 19:40

In order to grow up, Giacomina has to learn the art of letting go.

#NewMavericks

To Be Free | directed by Adepero Oduye, USA, 12:18

In a tiny after-hours club, Nina Simone finds a way, for one moment, to be free.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

FISH TANK
Fleeting glimpses through the glass.

Documentary, 92 minutes
Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 7:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

More Is More | directed by Alexis Boling, USA, 6:24

Unearthly creatures from another dimension climb out of the mind of a transformational artist and onto the streets of NYC.

#Georgia

Gut Hack | directed by Kate McLean & Mario Furloni, USA, 14:00
A former NASA scientist turned bio-hacker attempts an experiment that makes him confront the multitudes inside.           

Powder Fresh | directed by Lyntoria Newton, USA, 7:37
“Powder Fresh” is an experimental look into the racial and gender implications of hygienic practices through targeted advertising.  

The Sandman | directed by Lauren Knapp, USA, 18:56
A doctor walks the line of his own morality as he participates in executions, while personally opposing capital punishment.

#Competition, #Georgia

Distribution | directed by Sam Ellison, Nicaragua/USA, 11:10

The pirate movie industry of Nicaragua, seen in kaleidoscopic detail.

#CineMás, #Competition

Raised by Krump | directed by Maceo Frost, USA/Germany/Sweden, 22:00

“Raised by Krump” explores the LA-born dance movement ‘krumping,’ and the lives of some of the area’s most influential and prolific dancers.          

#Competition

Matthew's Gift | directed by Jon Watts, USA, 11:54

We follow photographer Oana Hogrefe as she dedicates her one day a year taking remembrance photos of a child nearing the end of life.

#Georgia

IN THE REALMS OF THE UNREAL
Otherworldly tales.

Narrative (Sci-Fi/Horror), 97 minutes
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 2:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Waste | directed by Justine Raczkiewicz, USA, 15:50

Roger gets to know his roommate Olive over a series of meals, which become increasingly strange and push the limits of his curiousity.

The Last Journey of the Enigmatic Paul WR | directed by Romain Quirot, France, 17:07         

The red moon threatens our existence on earth. Our only hope is the enigmatic Paul WR, the most talented astronaut of his generation. However, few hours before the start of the mission, Paul disappears.

Creswick | directed by Natalie Erika James, Australia, 9:30

While a young woman helps her father pack up his house, they are both increasingly aware of the presence that they always knew was there.

#NewMavericks

The Purple Plain | directed by Kim Albright, United Kingdom, 12:41

The true story of the Mercury 13, the first American women who tested for space flight.

#NewMavericks

Home Education | directed by Andrea Niada, United Kingdom, 24:50

A girl is convinced by her mother that her dead dad will be resurrected if they show how much they miss him. That is, until he begins to rot...

They Charge For the Sun | directed by Terence Nance, USA, 16:52

In a future where people live nocturnally, a young black girl unravels the lie that has kept her and her sister in the dark.

#Competition

LOL (Laughing Out Loud)
Amusing moments and familiar faces.

Narrative (Comedy), 114 minutes
Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 8:00 PM — Dad’s Garage

The Accomplice | directed by Jon Hoeg & John F. Beach, USA, 7:56

Jerry arrives home to a full answering machine and realizes he might be in trouble.

Hit | directed by Katie Trew Cheline, USA, 15:51

“Hit” follows Brandon, who thinks he's met the girl of his dreams in the mysterious Izzy… until they go on the first date of his nightmares.

Seeking: Jack Tripper | directed by Quinlan Orear, USA, 14:30

A married gay couple who try to have a threesome in an attempt to reignite the spark in their relationship.

#PinkPeach

Chicken / Egg | directed by James D'Arcy, United Kingdom, 15:00

Mark's a good guy. Kenneth not so much. Mark's gonna help Kenneth out. Maybe.

The Session | directed by Morgane Becceril, France/USA, 13:08

A novice dominatrix fights to free a tortured client.

Pregnant | directed by Joseph Sackett, USA, 9:30

A pregnant man communicates psychically with his unborn fetus.

#Competition, #PinkPeach

Perfect Roast Potatoes | directed by Nick Frew, USA, 18:00

A bittersweet comedy about cooking and grief. Dysfunctional British siblings have an awkward Christmas with the corpse of their dead mum.

Lightningface | directed by Brian Petsos, USA, 19:57

After an inexplicable incident, Basil Stitt sequesters himself inside his apartment and begins a profound transformation.           

THE NEW LOVE AND THE OLD
The malleability of modern romance.

Narrative & Documentary, 95 minutes
Saturday, April 1, 2017, 5:15 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Modern Love | directed by Francesca Mirabella, USA, 10:03

Romance in the era of Snapchat.

Victor & Isolina | directed by William D. Caballero, USA, 5:45

Victor and Isolina (now in their 80s) answer questions about their life-long, complex and arduous relationship.

#Competition

Gema | directed by Kenrick Prince, USA, 13:24

When Gema gets roped into meeting her fiancé’s parents for the first time, she grapples with facing the truth he’s been keeping from them.

All Good Things | directed by Chloe Domont, USA, 26:00

In a portrait of a modern marriage, a filmmaker follows her mother's relationship with two men, each whom satisfy her different needs.

#Competition

Call Your Father | directed by Jordan Firstman, USA, 19:04

On Josh and Greg's first date, they quickly realize that the generational divide between them is the least of their worries.

#PinkPeach

In the Hills | directed by Hamid Reza Ahmadi Rahmatabadi, United Kingdom, 21:00

In the idyllic English Cotswolds, Sharam, a young immigrant man, takes a rather radical approach towards integrating with British society.

#Competition

PLANET OF THE CHILDREN
Kids shows and shorts. (Recommended ages 8+)

Animation, Narrative & Pilot, 69 minutes
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 12:15 PM — Towne Cinema

The Discovery of Dit Dodson | directed by Kelley Kali, USA, 10:35

In the Bayous of Louisiana, 14-year-old Dit discovers that she inherited magical healing powers, but they get her into a world of trouble.

#NewMavericks

Egér (Little Mouse) | directed by Ervin B. Nagy, Hungary, 7:12

1986, Budapest. The later olympic champion swimmer Krisztina Egerszegi is only 12. Her opponents are stronger and bigger.     

Wishful Whiskers | directed by Pulkit Datta, USA, 9:55

Stuck in her dad’s boring lunch meeting, little Ella suddenly discovers the curious case of all the mustaches.     

Nobody | directed by Elham Toroghi, Iran, 10:16

The story is about a white cat who lives in a city of black dwellers.

#Competition

Rum | directed by Russell Haigh, UK, 4:26

A quarrel between two pirates gets completely out of hand.

#Competition

The Wishing Jar | directed by Denver Jackson, Canada, 13:48

A girl, a flying goldfish, and a wishing star.

#Competition

Frolic 'n Mae | directed by Danny Madden, USA, 12:40

Frustrated, Mae creates Frolic, and Frolic creates mayhem.           

REASSEMBLAGE
Rendering illusions of motion and change.

Animation, 84 minutes
Monday, March 27, 2017, 7:15 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main
Presented in partnership with ASIFA-South

Ceci n'est pas une animation | directed by Federico Kempke, Canada/Mexico. 5:14

A group of pretentious animators are followed through the process of creating the ‘ultimate animated film.’ But do they really have the skills to back up their claims?

#CineMás, #Competition

Related | directed by Ida Andreasen, Denmark, 15:00

Related is a drama about love and genetics. A daughter and her father strive to learn to live with their uncontrollable tempers.

#Competition

Once a Hero | directed by Xia Li, USA, 8:13

Wanting to be a superhero, a boy befriends with a girl who is bullied by all her classmates. One day, he is forced to make a choice, betray the girl or not.

#Competition

Confessions of A Breastimator | directed by Jisu Kim, USA, 3:24

The story of a breast aficionado who reflects back on her life as an animator, confessing her longtime passion for cartoons and animating double Ds.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

Thank You For Visiting | directed by Dinesh Ram, India, 10:54

The story of habitat loss told through the life of a bear in a regular city zoo.

#Competition

The Laughing Spider | directed by Keiichi Tanaami, Japan, 7:24

A psychedelic phantasmagoria from Japan’s greatest veteran animator, based on childhood memories of air-raids.

#Competition

"The Talk" True Stories About The Birds & The Bees | directed by Alain Delannoy, Canada, 8:50

There are things in life you never forget. One of them, like it or not, is ‘the talk.’

#Competition

Summer's Puke is Winter's Delight | directed by Sawako Kabuki, Japan, 2:59

Painful events become memories over time. Still, we vomit and eat again. Life is Eco.

#Competition

Fox and the Whale | directed by Robin Joseph, Canada, 12:03

The story of a curious fox who goes in search of an elusive whale. A journey of longing and discovery.

#Competition

The Wrong End of the Stick | directed by Terri Matthews, United Kingdom, 9:40

Malcolm Fetcher faces an all-consuming identity crisis. His marriage disintegrates and he is forced to express a deep, hidden desire.

#Competition

SEASON OF STRANGERS
Avant-garde selections that redefine form and function.

Experimental, 74 minutes
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 7:30 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Auto | directed by Conner Griffith, USA, 6:19
A choreographed dance of pedestrians and automobiles, presented on their routinized stages.

Fault Lines | directed by Mandy Bea, USA, 3:12
I only see in neon.

A Hard World for Little Things | directed by Sonja Bertucci, USA, 2:00

“A Hard World for Little Things” is a film about toys insofar as they channel the violence of the adult world into the space of childhood.

Forged From the Love of Liberty | directed by Vashti Harrison, Trinidad and Tobago/USA, 4:45

A visual poem about a family's curse, and two superstitions surrounding it.

Clandestine | directed by Atoosa Pour Hosseini, Ireland/Estonia, 14:23

“Clandestine” Layers both space and time, superimposing imagery and creating entrancing patterns of repetition and startling interruption.

Back Track | directed by Virgil Widrich, Austria, 7:00

A 3D remix of flat feature films.

Skin in the Game | directed by Ariana Gerstein, USA, 5:02

From many pieces, marked by light, by pressure, sliced. 

More Dangerous Than a Thousand Rioters | directed by Kelly Gallagher, USA, 6:19

An experimental animated documentary exploring the powerful and inspiring life of revolutionary Lucy Parsons.

#NewMavericks

Underbelly Up | directed by Josh Yates, USA, 3:57

A disembodied entity meditates on the trauma caused by a devastating flood that occurred during October, their favorite month.

Colombi | directed by Luca Ferri, Italy, 20:46
A reflection on the last century and two people's precise unwillingness to accept the changes imposed by society.

SOUTHERN COMFORT
Films (and makers) crafted in the Peach State.

Narrative, 85 minutes
Monday, March 27, 2017, 9:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

The Ebbing Tree | directed by DaManuel Richardson, USA, 12:58

A young teen gains the courage to leave his home for the mainland after a chance encounter with an old friend.

#Georgia

Leaving Charlie | directed by Amanda Brooke Avery & Diane Calhoun, USA, 15:38

A young, queer, stripper is forced to reevaluate her boundaries when a customer gets too close.

#Georgia, #NewMavericks, #PinkPeach

Northfield | directed by Cameron Schwartz, USA, 18:40

After kidnapping his son's murderer, a distraught father takes up a dangerous journey and faces a harrowing dilemma.

#Georgia

My Indian Rhapsody | directed by Abijeet Achar, India/France/USA, 15:31

A once famous author works on a new book about a life with a brother he never knew, but is distracted by dreams of a lover he left behind.

#Georgia

It's Just Skin | directed by Haley Wetherington, USA, 7:02

After a misconstrued moment between Stella and her neighbor Matt, Stella is left to contend with the blame she puts on herself.

#Georgia, #NewMavericks

Cul-De-Sac | directed by Damon Russell, USA, 14:30

Two parents, living in a quiet cul-de-sac, discover a wiretap hidden inside their son's teddy bear.

#Georgia

STORIES WE TELL
Memoirs of uprooted lives.

Documentary, 83 minutes
Saturday, April 1, 2017, 2:45 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Notes From Buena Vista | directed by Elizabeth Lo, USA, 9:38

A working-class mobile home park in Silicon Valley faces imminent closure. Notes From Buena Vista glimpses into the lives of low-income families in one of the wealthiest places in the world.

The Move | directed by Maija Hirvonen, Finland, 18:51

“The Move” is a short documentary of a poet Mirkka Rekola who reflects on her life that is soon coming to an end.

#NewMavericks

El Hara | directed by Margaux Fitoussi & Mo Scarpelli, Tunisia/France, 16:00

“El Hara” poetically explores how the places we grow up in haunt who we become, forever.

#Competition

Se Shin Sa | directed by Eunhye Hong Kim, USA, 10:52

“Se Shin Sa” is a hybrid of fiction and documentary portraying an undocumented woman living and working as a masseuse in Koreatown, Los Angeles.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

Refugee | directed by Joyce Chen & Emily Moore, USA/Senegal, 27:14

“Refugee” tells the story of a West African woman who left her five children in 2003 to come to the USA and provide them with a better future.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

TIES THAT BIND
Family matters of life and death.

Narrative, 103 minutes
Friday, March 31, 2017, 7:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Benny Got Shot | directed by Malcolm Washington, USA, 20:01
Naomi, an autopsy assistant, realizes her brother is missing the night of a police shooting and fears that his body may be in her morgue.

Let the Past Go By | directed by Maryam Naraghi, Iran, 21:00

Unlike her father, Bahar hasn’t yet overcome the tragedy of her younger brother’s death. When his killer is released from jail, she tries to make him suffer emotionally. Her endeavors result in a change in her perspective.

#Competition, #NewMavericks

Death in a Day | directed by Lin Wang, USA/China, 14:05

After visiting his comatose father, a young Chinese boy must come to grips with the impending death falling upon his family.

Fox | directed by Jacqueline Lentzou, Greece, 28:02

Stephanos, a reactive teenager and the oldest of a family with no father, has a fight with his mother. Left home-alone with his siblings and sick dog, Lucy, he has no idea that this would be the last, most carefree day of his life.

Vìré | directed by Hugo Rousselin, France/Guadeloupe, 19:50
A young Guadeloupean named Isaac has troubles to mourn over the death of his brother Legba.

#Competition

UNSTRUNG HEROES
Invisible hands awaken the inanimate.

Puppetry, 85 minutes
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 11:30 AM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Ropes in Life | directed by Gerardo González, Mexico, 13:00

Caro is a thoughtful puppet who wanders through streets, meeting other puppets will make him conscious of the impositions he lives.

#CineMás

Loren The Robot Butler: Teach Me How To Dougie! | directed by Paul McGinnis, USA, 3:18

Decommissioned and stored in the basement, Loren the Robot Butler begrudgingly teaches the kids of the household how to dance the Dougie.

Belle and Bamber | directed by Alex Forbes, United Kingdom, 15:00

Belle and Bamber is a dark comedy about a child afraid of growing up and the dangers of psychotic imaginary friends.

Hot Air Balloon Animals | directed by Ben Johnson, Serene Bacigalupi & Jacques Duffourc, USA, 7:51

A lovable monster becomes inspired to embark on a hot air adventure filled with flying unicorns and cloud animals.

Lucky Chicken | directed by Gulliver Moore, United Kingdom, 12:15

A quirky silent romantic comedy about a butcher, a baker, a candlestick maker... and a magic chicken.

B-Bot | directed by Bryan McAdams, USA, 5:55

After the tragic loss of his best friend, a robot must find happiness in a world destroyed by a catastrophe.

Rain | directed by Matt Glass, USA, 14:27

One town, sixty years without sunlight or rain, a tyrant who controls the people and a mysterious wanderer offering a bright side to it all.

The Owl and the Lemming | directed by Roselynn Akulukjuk, Canada, 3:33

In this fable in which a young owl catches a lemming to eat, children learn the value of being humble, and why pride is to be avoided.

Gute Nacht (Good Night) | directed by Henning Backhaus, Austria, 6:37

Music clip for the first song from Franz Schubert's song cycle “Winter Journey.”

The Pits | directed by Mike Hayhurst, USA, 3:11

In a world full of pears, what can you find to fill your pit? A story about longing, love, and finding your other half.

SHORTS SCREENING BEFORE FEATURES

Narrative & Documentary

Better Known As Peaches Christ | directed by Jeff Dragomanovich & Nate Visconti, USA, 3:40

Screens with CHERRY POP (Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 9:15 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main)

Drag icon Peaches Christ offers a rare glimpse into her transformation process, and describes the path from stifled teen to brazen cult hero.

#PinkPeach

Game | directed by Jeannie Donohoe, USA, 15:54

Screens with MR. CHIBBS (Saturday, March 25, 2017, 4:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main)

A new kid shows up for the varsity boys' basketball tryouts and instantly makes an impression.
#NewMavericks

Get the Life | directed by Ozzy Villazòn, USA, 11:55

Screens with JACKSON (Friday, March 31, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main)

A transgender teenager faces an unwanted pregnancy and risks losing everything he loves in order to live courageously.

#PinkPeach

Megan's Shift | directed by Zeke Farrow, USA, 10:52
Screens with YOUR RIDE IS HERE (Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 8:00 PM — Dad's Garage)

It's never too late to give up.

Search Party  | directed by Tesia Walker, USA, 8:48

Screens with MILWAUKEE 53206 (Saturday, March 25, 2017, 12:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs)

Donna Greene is a mother living in a NYC housing project, who is throwing a party for her son, when a surprise visitor shows up her door.

#NewMavericks

Shauna is a Liar | directed by Chell Stephen, Canada/USA, 10:53

Screens with WEXFORD PLAZA (Friday, March 31, 2017, 7:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs)

An isolated perfectionist exacts ill-conceived revenge on all liars of the world via one nearby target: a classmate sharing her name.

#NewMavericks

Il Silenzio (The Silence) | directed by Ali Asgari & Farnoosh Samadi, Italy/France, 14:35

Screens with TWO WORLDS (Sunday, March 26, 2017, 12:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs)

Fatma and her mother are Kurdish refugees in Italy. On their visit to the doctor, Fatma has to translate what the doctor tells to her mother but she keeps silent.

#Competition

---

About the Atlanta Film Festival and Atlanta Film Society

The Atlanta Film Festival, now in its fifth decade, is an Academy Award-qualifying festival and one of the region’s largest and longest-running preeminent celebrations of cinema in the Southeast United States. More than 27,000 festival attendees enjoy independent, animated, documentary and short films each year, selected from more than 6,000 submissions from 120 countries. The Atlanta Film Festival is the chief annual operation of the Atlanta Film Society (ATLFS), one of the oldest and largest organizations dedicated to the promotion and education of film in the United States, which enriches the community through screenings, classes, workshops and other events year-round. The Atlanta Film Festival was recently named one of the “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” and one of “50 Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” by MovieMaker Magazine. Major funding for the Atlanta Film Society is provided by Turner, XFINITY, MailChimp and the Fulton County Board of Commissioners through the Fulton County Arts & Culture Department and the National Endowment for the Arts through the Art Works category. www.AtlantaFilmFestival.com 

Atlanta Film Festival Announces Opening Night, Closing Night, Special Presentations & Creative Conference

ATLANTA, GA (March 3, 2017)  — The 2017 Atlanta Film Festival (ATLFF) is pleased to unveil key programming highlights that will take place during the 41st annual event from Friday, March 24, 2017 – Sunday, April 2, 2017. The featured screenings and events, announced first by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, include Opening and Closing Night Presentations, 18 Marquee and World Premiere screenings, 40 Creative Conference events and 12 unique Special Presentations. The programming revealed today will join a spectacular lineup of 163 previously announced feature length and short films, selected from a record 6,000+ submissions.

To kick-off the fest, ATLFF is pleased to welcome the feature film DAVE MADE A MAZE, as the Opening Night Presentation on Friday, March 24, 2017. Lauded “a cult classic in the making,” the narrative feature-length film combines elements of live action, puppetry and stop-motion video. The film stars comedian Nick Thune and is the directorial debut of writer-director Bill Watterson. Watterson and select cast and crewmembers will attend the Opening Night red carpet screening and celebration.

The festival’s Marquee screenings will take place throughout the ten-day event, giving attendees the opportunity to see a diverse lineup of upcoming releases from major film studios, including: Focus Features, 20th Century Fox, CBS Films and Sony Pictures Classics. Marquee screenings will include: THE LOST CITY OF Z (starring Charlie Hunnam, Tom Holland, Robert Pattinson), THE BOSS BABY (starring Alec Baldwin, Steve Buscemi, Lisa Kudrow, Jimmy Kimmel, Toby Maguire), and DEAN (starring Demetri Martin and Kevin Kline). 

Among the Marquee screenings is a trio of films presented in partnership with the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival (AJFF). ATLFF is proud to partner with AJFF to co-present three films with strong ties to Judaism that both celebrate and honor the Jewish faith and heritage. Based on the best-selling novel by Diane Ackerman, THE ZOOKEEPER’S WIFE (starring Jessica Chastain, Johan Heldenbergh, Daniel Brühl) recounts the true story of the Polish couple, who fought to save humans and animals in the Warsaw Zoo during World War II. NORMAN: THE MODERATE RISE AND TRAGIC FALL OF A NEW YORK FIXER – partially shot in Israel – tells the story of Norman Oppenheimer (Richard Gere), an opportunist who finds himself in the center of a geopolitical drama beyond anything he could have imagined.

To conclude Atlanta’s 2017 celebration of culture and cinema, ATLFF will close with MENASHE from A24 Films, the studio behind the ‘Best Picture’ winner at the 2017 Academy Awards®.  A Yiddish comedic drama that explores New York’s ultra-orthodox Hasidic Jewish community, MENASHE is the third film presented in partnership with the AJFF. Executive Producer Danelle Eliav is scheduled to appear at the Closing Night celebration.

ATLFF is proud to host the World Premiere of seven feature-length narrative or documentary films and two episodic pilots during the 2017 festival. World Premiere presentations will feature films from ATLFF specialty tracks (New Mavericks, Pink Peach, Georgia-Made) and with casts that include notable actors such as Maggie Grace, Justin Chatwin, Maika Monroe and Will Patton.

In addition to film screenings, ATLFF hosts a series of Special Presentations annually, including fest-favorites Food on Film and SOUND + VISION. This is the fifth year that ATLFF has hosted the Food on Film event, which pairs a food-themed movie with a delicious after party. This year, foodies and film lovers can expect a 25th Anniversary Presentation of Georgia-made classic MY COUSIN VINNY, followed by a southern celebration to honor grits. SOUND + VISION will also return to the 2017 festival with details to be announced. Also joining the Special Presentations lineup this year is a block of emerging creative media including music videos, episodic television pilots and virtual reality screenings. 

Rounding out the announcement of key programming is the 2017 ATLFF Creative Conference schedule. As the festival’s educational programming track, the five-day Creative Conference program consists of nearly 40 panels, talks and demos that delve deeper into the captivating world of cinema, focusing on topics such as screenwriting, acting, producing, casting, funding and distribution. This year ATLFF is delighted to offer conferences on production location, IMDB, costume design, script writing and more. 

For a full lineup of films, or to purchase passes, please visit www.AtlantaFilmFestival.com. Select individual screening tickets are on sale now and will be updated as additional events are announced. 

The Atlanta Film Festival is the annual centerpiece of educational and enriching film programing that is provided year-round by parent organization, the Atlanta Film Society.

Additional announcements will be made as programming is added to the 2017 ATLFF lineup.

OPENING NIGHT PRESENTATION

Dave Made A Maze

Directed by Bill Watterson
USA, 2017, English, 81 minutes
Friday, March 24, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

In a struggling attempt to create something of significance, Dave builds a fort in his living room where he falls victim to his own creation. Now trapped in a world filled with booby traps and fantastical pitfalls, Dave advises his girlfriend against entering the ever-changing mythical world to save him.
#Puppetry, #Marquee

Director Bill Watterson and select cast and crew members scheduled to attend.
Sponsored by Moonshine Post-Production.

CLOSING NIGHT PRESENTATION

Menashe

directed by Joshua Z. Weinstein
USA/Israel, 2017, Yiddish, 91 minutes
Saturday, April 1, 2017, 7:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main
Presented in partnership with the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

Deep in the heart of New York’s ultra-orthodox Hasidic Jewish community, Menashe, a kind, hapless grocery store clerk, struggles to make ends meet and responsibly parent his young son, Rieven, following his wife Leah’s death. Tradition prohibits Menashe from raising his son alone, so Rieven’s strict uncle adopts him, leaving Menashe heartbroken. Meanwhile, though Menashe seems to bungle every challenge in his path, his rabbi grants him one special week with Rieven before Leah’s memorial. It’s his chance to prove himself a suitable man of faith and fatherhood, and restore respect among his doubters.
#Marquee

Executive Producer & Unit Production Manager Danelle Eliav scheduled to attend.
Sponsored by Music Matters.

MARQUEE FILMS

The Boss Baby

Directed by Tom McGrath
USA, 2017, English
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 2:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Meet a most unusual baby. He wears a suit, speaks with the voice and wit of Alec Baldwin, and stars in the animated comedy, DreamWorks’ “The Boss Baby.” “The Boss Baby” is a hilariously universal story about how a new baby's arrival impacts a family, told from the point of view of a delightfully unreliable narrator, a wildly imaginative 7-year-old named Tim.
#Animation #FamilyFriendly

Dean

Directed by Demetri Martin
USA, 2016, English, 87 minutes
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 9:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Dean (Demetri Martin) is an illustrator whose unwillingness to deal with the recent death of his mother means escaping his hometown of New York for an interview with an ad agency in Los Angeles. His retired engineer dad Robert (Kevin Kline) takes a more regimented approach to grief, including putting the family home up for sale. Both father and son set out on their own paths to find a new normal as unexpected circumstances and potential new love interests threaten to thwart all plans.
#Marquee

The Hero

Directed by Brett Haley
USA, 2017, English 96 minutes
Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Lee Hayden (Sam Elliott) is an aging Western icon with a golden voice, but his best performances are decades behind him. He spends his days reliving old glories and smoking too much weed with his former-co-star-turned-dealer, Jeremy (Nick Offerman), until a surprise cancer diagnosis brings his priorities into sharp focus. He soon strikes up an exciting, contentious relationship with stand-up comic Charlotte (Laura Prepon), and he attempts to reconnect with his estranged daughter, Lucy (Krysten Ritter), all while searching for one final role to cement his legacy.
#Marquee

The Lost City of Z

Directed by James Gray
USA, 2016, English, 140 minutes
Thursday, March 30, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Based on author David Grann’s nonfiction bestseller, “The Lost City of Z” tells the incredible true story of British explorer Percy Fawcett (Charlie Hunnam), who journeys into the Amazon at the dawn of the 20th century and discovers evidence of a previously unknown, advanced civilization that may have once inhabited the region. Despite being ridiculed by the scientific establishment who regard indigenous populations as ‘savages,’ the determined Fawcett — supported by his devoted wife (Sienna Miller), son (Tom Holland) and aide-de-camp (Robert Pattinson) — returns time and again to his beloved jungle in an attempt to prove his case, culminating in his mysterious disappearance in 1925.
#Marquee

Norman: The Moderate Rise and Tragic Fall of a New York Fixer

Directed by Joseph Cedar
USA/Israel, 2016, English, 117 minutes
Sunday, April 2, 2017, 2:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs
Presented in partnership with the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

Norman Oppenheimer (Richard Gere) only wants to matter. Living a lonely life in the shadow of power and money, he uses any angle or connection to put himself in a position of significance. He is an opportunist, just not a very good one. Until he finally bets on the right horse by buying a pair of expensive shoes for Micha Eshel (Lior Ashkenazi), a lowly Israeli politician. When Micha becomes Prime Minister, Norman finds himself in the center of a geopolitical drama beyond anything he could have imagined. 
#Marquee

The Promise

Directed by Terry George
Spain/Portugal/Malta/USA, 2016, English/German/French, 134 minutes
Sunday, April 2, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Michael Boghosian (Oscar Isaac) arrives in 1914 Constantinople as a medical student determined to bring modern medicine back to Siroun, his ancestral village in Southern Turkey. Photo-journalist Chris Myers (Christian Bale), has come here only partly to cover geo-politics. He is mesmerized by his love for Ana (Charlotte le Bon), an Armenian artist he has accompanied from Paris after the sudden death of her father. When Michael meets Ana, their shared Armenian heritage sparks an attraction that explodes into a romantic rivalry between the two men even as Michael hangs on to a promise from his past. After the Turks join the war on the German side, the Empire turns violently against its own ethnic minorities. Despite their conflicts, everyone must find a way to survive—even as monumental events envelope their lives.
#Marquee

Sylvio

Directed by Albert Birney & Kentucker Audley
USA, 2017, English, 80 minutes
Monday, March 27, 2017, 8:00 PM — Dad's Garage

It's the story of a small town gorilla, Sylvio, who is stuck in his job at a debt collection agency. Deep down he just wants to express himself with his hand puppet, Herbert Herpels, and his experimental puppet show that highlights the quiet moments of life.
#Marquee

Whose Streets?

Directed by Sabaah Folayan & Damon Davis
USA, 2017, English, 103 minutes
Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 9:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main

Told by the activists and leaders who live and breathe this movement for justice, “Whose Streets?” is an unflinching look at the Ferguson uprising. When unarmed teenager Michael Brown is killed by police and left lying in the street for hours, it marks a breaking point for the residents of St. Louis, Missouri. Grief, long-standing racial tensions and renewed anger bring residents together to hold vigil and protest this latest tragedy. Empowered parents, artists, and teachers from around the country come together as freedom fighters. As the national guard descends on Ferguson with military grade weaponry, these young community members become the torchbearers of a new resistance.
#Marquee

The Zookeeper’s Wife

Directed by Niki Caro
UK/USA/Czech Republic/New Zealand, 2017, English, 126 minutes
Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 7:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main
Presented in partnership with the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival

In 1939 Poland, Antonina Żabińska (Jessica Chastain) and her husband, Dr. Jan Żabiński (Johan Heldenbergh), have the Warsaw Zoo flourishing under his stewardship and her care. When their country is invaded by the Germans, Jan and Antonina are stunned and forced to report to the Reich's newly appointed chief zoologist, Lutz Heck (Daniel Brühl). To fight back on their own terms, the Żabińskis covertly begin working with the Resistance and put into action plans to save lives out of what has become the Warsaw Ghetto, with Antonina putting herself and even her children at great risk.
#NewMavericks, #Marquee

SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS

WonderRoot’s Local Film Series
Thursday, March 23, 2017, 7:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main — $12 at door/$10 in advance

Once again, we kick-off the festival with WonderRoot’s generally local, mostly independent film series. Join us for a night of awe-inspiring short films from our own backyard.
#Georgia

ATLFF Screenplay Competition: Table Read
Friday, March 24, 2017, 4:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs — FREE with RSVP

Join us for a script read of selections from each of the three 2017 Atlanta Film Festival Screenplay Competition winners, featuring local SAG-AFTRA actors.

AIGA Poster Show: Art Director’s Cut
Friday, March 24, 2017, 7:00 PM — Highland Inn Ballroom Lounge — FREE with RSVP

It’s the sequel to last year’s smash hit Poster Show + Mixtape Collaboration fundraiser with a new twist: MOVIES! Our carefully selected critics have curated a poster exhibition that will be on display during the festival to pay homage to our favorite movies. All attendees will take home an event poster for free.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show
Friday, March 24 & 31, 2017, 12:00 AM — Plaza Theatre, Main — $12

It's a Plaza Theatre institution! Lips Down On Dixie performs the interactive version of “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” at Midnight each Friday.

Fear Haus
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 10:15 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main — $12 at door/$10 in advance

Join the FEAR HAUS team during their hand-picked, 1-hour horror genre block, presented by Blair Bathory and Drew Sawyer, with guests of honor Luchagore! FEAR HAUS is an Atlanta-based international brand that curates episodic and feature content with directors and filmmaking teams from around the world. We are proud to have Luchagore with us at the festival, kicking off our newest season. Additionally, Luchagore is collaborating with FEAR HAUS on original content in Atlanta as part of our brand new FEARMAKER program. FEARMAKER provides sustainable production opportunities for talented genre filmmakers, helping showcase them and other’s work around the world. Prepare to make horror your new home.
#Georgia

Food on Film - 25th Anniversary presentation: My Cousin Vinny
directed by Jonathan Lynn
USA, 1992, English, 120 minutes
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 12:00 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main — $12 at door/$10 in advance

Bill Gambini and Stan Rothenstein are a couple of 21-year-old college guys taking a cross-country road trek to UCLA via the back roads of the deep South. They should be having the time of their lives, except for one small mishap: They are wrongfully arrested in Wahzoo City, Alabama, for murdering a convenience store clerk. At best, they face long-term jail sentences; at worst...the electric chair. Their only hope is legal representation from Bill's cousin Vinny, a Brooklyn lawyer who took six years to pass the bar and only made it six weeks ago. This is not only his first murder trial it's his first case. Refusing help from his fiery Brooklyn girlfriend, Lisa, the novice lawyer must wrestle with legal procedures in an alien environment under the intimidating eye of Chamberlain Haller, a tough country judge with an obsession for the letter of the law and a powerful dislike for Vinny. This year, we are having an after-party to celebrate GRITS, in all the glorious, Southern dishes we can get our hands on. (After-party FREE with “My Cousin Vinny” ticket or festival badge.)
#Georgia

Puppet Slam
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 9:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Main — $12 at door/$10 in advance

Hosted by Beau Brown, the Puppet Slam (formerly known as Touch the Puppet Head) is a combination of live puppetry performances and curated short puppet films. Featuring “New Roommate” directed by Victor Yerrid, “Pets” directed by Raymond Carr & Molly Coffee, “Fade to Grey” directed by Rowan Patel and “Fruit Flies” directed by Benjamin Wilson.
#Georgia

The Florida State University College Of Motion Picture Arts Presents: Selected Keylight Films
Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 6:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs — FREE with RSVP

The FSU College of Motion Pictures Arts presents a showcase of eight short student films followed by a panel discussion with representatives from the College. Ranked by The Hollywood Reporter as one of the top 25 film schools in the country, FSU College of Motion Picture Arts produces student films that regularly win prestigious awards like the Student Emmys and Oscars. Join us for an evening of cinematic entertainment as we showcase this year's selected Keylight Films.

The Art Institute of Atlanta Presents: Senior Film Screening
Thursday, March 30, 2017, 5:00 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main — FREE with RSVP

A showcase of short films created by senior level students from The Art Institute of Atlanta.
#Georgia

EPISODIC PILOTS

FAMILY PILOTS
Enjoy family pilots before the shorts block Planet of the Children!    
Saturday, March 25, 2017, 12:15 PM — Towne Cinema
FREE with RSVP                                    

The Discovery of Dit Dodson
Directed by Kelley Kali | USA, 2016, English, 10:35
In the Bayous of Louisiana, 14-year-old Dit discovers that she inherited magical healing powers, but they get her into a world of trouble.
#FamilyFriendly, #WorldPremiere

Little Mouse
Directed by Ervin B. Nagy | Hungary, 2016, Hungarian, 7:12
1986. Budapest. The later olympic champion swimmer Krisztina Egerszegi is only 12. Her opponents are stronger and bigger.
#FamilyFriendly

COMEDY PILOTS
Binge through three full season comedies at Dad's Garage!
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 3 PM, 5PM & 7:30 PM — Dad's Garage Theatre
$12 at door/$10 in advance

The Benefits of Gusbandry
Directed by Alicia J. Rose | USA, 2016, English, 1:17:00
One woman, one man, a lot of weed, a little crying and NO sexual attraction whatsoever.  Love is so gay.
#NewMavericks, #PinkPeach

The Minutes Collection
Directed by Jim Cummings & Dustin Hahn | USA, 2015, English, 1:27:10
Dona Nobis Pacem: grant us peace.

Hart of America
Directed by Arlen Konopaki | USA, 2016, English, 55:00
Alcoholic bigfoot, sex-crazed teens, and a hard-nosed detective cross paths in the Georgia woods searching for fulfillment.
#Georgia

UNSCRIPTED PILOTS
Tune into vignettes of local and domestic artists in our documentary block.
Sunday, March 26, 2017, 4:30 PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Main
$12 at door/$10 in advance

UNCODE
Directed by Myisa Plancq-Graham | USA, 2017, English, 25:00
An original series documenting the presence, global influence, and varied interests of the African diaspora.
#NewMavericks, #PinkPeach

We The Creators
Directed by Babacar Ndiaye | USA, 2016, English, 12:00
“We the Creators” takes a closer look at a diverse group of artists specializing in multiple art forms.
#Georgia

SCRIPTED PILOTS
Head to Poncey-Highland for some late night drama.
Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 7:20 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs
$12 at door/$10 in advance

Reset
Directed by Christelle Gras | France, 2016, French, 33:57
The end of the world, the beginning of theirs

Steps
Directed by Fernando Sanchez & Pascual Sisto | USA, 2016, English, 59:00
A series that rearranges itself to form unique episodes for each viewer as it weaves the deviant drives of several unconnected people.
#WorldPremiere

VIRTUAL REALITY

Monday, March 27 & Tuesday, March 28, 2017, 6PM to 10PM — 7 Stages Theatre, Black Box

Ch'aak' S'aagi (Eagle Bone)
Directed by Tracy Rector
USA, 2016, Lushootseed/English/Tlingit, 5:00
Nature reminds us that we are all connected and to reflect on the teachings of the old ones.

Fossil Hunters of the Gobi
Directed by Jason Drakeford
USA, 2016, English, 3:44
We immerse the viewer in the journey of 1920s explorer and fossil hunter Roy Chapman Andrews, leading up to current day research.
#Georgia

haunt
Directed by Lilian Mehrel
USA, 2016, English, 7:39
"haunt" is a short virtual reality film about presence, experienced through the eyes of a ghost.
#NewMavericks

I Philip
Directed by Pierre Zandrowicz
France, 2016, English, 13:00
“I Philip” is an immersive short fiction that takes the viewer inside the mind of one of the greatest writers of science-fiction of our time.

Please State Your Name
Directed by Jak Wilmot
USA, 2016, English, 9:00
Stuck with a broken voice box, a decapitated robot head desperately tries to escape a giant garbage facility.
#Georgia

Traces
Directed by Gabriela Arp
USA, 2016, English, 8:00
Traces is a cinematic virtual reality film exploring the meaning of memory for one woman living with Alzheimer's disease.
#Georgia, #NewMavericks

Women on the Move
Directed by Shannon Carroll
Niger, 2016, English, 6:24
A woman's life in rural Niger changes when she enters into a savings group. Will her granddaughter take the next step out of poverty?
#Georgia

MUSIC VIDEOS

Wednesday, March 29, 2017, 9:45 PM — Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

“Oh Elise” - VIECH
Directed by Arne v. Nostitz-Rieneck | Austria, 2016, German, 6:19

“It Keeps You Running (To The Hills)” - Metal McDonald
Directed by Video Rahim | USA, 2016, English, 6:37
#Georgia

“Dangerous” - Big Freedia
Directed by Wilberto Lucci | USA, 2015, English, 4:30
#PinkPeach

“The Rush” - Langtunes
Directed by Sahar Tarzi | Iran, 2015, English, 3:37

“Young Rebels” - TW Walsh
Directed by Brit Wigintton | USA, 2016, English, 3:03
#Georgia

“Soy Yo” - Bomba Estéreo
Directed by Torben Kjelstrup | Denmark, 2016, Spanish, 2:55

“Left & Right” - Pazes
Directed by Camila Lima | Brazil, 2016, 3:29

“Ponura Tresura” - Makabreski
Directed by Ala nunu Leszynska | Poland, 2016, Polish, 5:09

“Time Stops” - StarBenders
Directed by Benjamin Roberds | USA, 2016, English, 3:49
#Georgia

“Fighter” - Supa Good D Smoke feat. Jackie Gouché + Davion Farris
Directed by Erica Eng | USA, 2016, English, 6:00

“Redefine” - TRENTEMØLLER
Directed by Åsa Ritton & Andreas Emenius | Denmark/Sweden, 2016, English, 5:08

“Move” - Austin Royale
Directed by Josh Yates | USA, 2016, English, 2:30

“Funeral Regrets” - Closet Witch
Directed by Autojektor | UK/USA, 2016, English, 2:55

“Flight Attendant” - XXX
Directed by Mattis Dovier | South Korea/France, 2016, Korean, 3:52

“Beasts in the Garden” - Spires That In The Sunset Rise
Directed by Lori Felker | USA, 2015, English, 6:29

“The Was” - The Avalanches
Directed by Soda_Jerk | Australia, 2016, English, 13:40

CREATIVE CONFERENCE

MONDAY, MARCH 27th

Location, Location, Location — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

A director, production designer, and location managers discuss finding the right location and how collaboration can produce the perfect look.

Reputation is Everything — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 7 Stages Theatre, Black Box

From your resume to the basics of IMDb, learn to accurately and properly list your credits whether you're an actor or crew.

Create Me — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

A writer, director, actor, propmaster, and costume designer work together to construct different characters from the page to the stage.

Trust Me — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Documentary filmmakers explore when and how to build trust with their subject(s), the difficulty of staying neutral, and the lines to avoid crossing.

Make It Work — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Development is crucial to success—what's involved, why it's about more than just script rewrites, and how the right team can help bring your ideas into focus.

Breaking In — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Production Assistants discuss how they got started, what they wish they'd known, tips for success, and networking best practices to keep getting gigs.

I'll be in my Trailer — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Actors working on network television shows and studio features share what it took to get there, and how indie film started their careers.

SAGIndie: Get Great Talent — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Producers and production staff: SAGIndie offers an indepth look at the various low budget contracts that the Screen Actors Guild has to offer.

TUESDAY, MARCH 28th

Fincannon & Associates: Casting Master Class — 9:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Plaza Theatre, Main

Mark Fincannon explains the art of casting, self-taping, auditions, discovering new talent, and more.

Based on a True Story — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Narrative, reality TV, and documentary filmmakers discuss the pros and cons of crafting stories based in real life.

The Pinewood Panel: Candy Jar - An Indie Case Study — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Main

Please join Producing team Judy Cairo and Michael A Simpson, Line Producer Carole Peterman, and Director Ben Shelton as they discuss their new film shooting at Pinewood, Candy Jar.

Back to One — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Actors and directors explore how to find a common language to best communicate intention, and what makes a good working relationship.

A Fist Full Of Dollars — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Black Box

Art department members share tips and tricks to save money, like recycling big budget sets to keep them out of landfills.

Note to Self — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

A writer, director, producer, and editor talk about the art of giving and receiving notes, whether from each other or a studio.

Working in a Virtual World — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Directors and DPs examine the differences and challenges of VR storytelling vs typical narrative work.

Block, Light, Rehearse, Shoot — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

From shot lists to scheduling, how the DP, Director, and 1st AD collaborate to ensure a production runs smoothly.

The Business of The Biz — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Former film crew members explain how their insider knowledge allowed them to start an ancillary business that serves the film industry and their previous craft.

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 29th

Grip Truck Show and Tell — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 7 Stages Theatre, Back Parking Lot

Day 1 Production Services showcases the typical 3-ton non-CDL grip truck used by indie features and smaller productions.

The Fine Print — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Entertainment attorneys discuss the contracts necessary to protect everyone involved on your next production.

Light and Shoot Your Indie — 11:15 AM - 12:45 AM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

PC&E demos cameras, lighting, and grip equipment to help you choose the right gear for your next production.

Stop and Care: Set Safety  — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

From insurance and safety meetings to stunts and guns, how to get the shots you need, encourage your crew to speak up, and keep your set safe.

Animate It — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, The Workshop

Hands-on workshop provides the tools, equipment, and know how to create an animated project in under an hour.

Sound is Half the Picture — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

From on-location sound recording and basic equipment to post audio and foley, the dos and don'ts of sound recording.

Show Me The Money — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Film investment, tax credits, sales reps, and self distribution; panelists share how their process works and best practices.

ShareGrid: Cinematography — 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Directors of Photography discuss cameras, lenses, and the best approach for investing in gear. Get tips on branding yourself as an owner/operator and how to fully monetize your time and gear. Join us for a ShareGrid sponsored Happy Hour at Highland Ballroom following panel discussion! 

Media Services: Payroll-101 — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Everything you need to know about payroll: union issues, workers’ comp, incentives, budgeting and the latest digital tools from Media Services Payroll.

THURSDAY, MARCH 30th

Disrupting Hollywood — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

The Hollywood system has made movies the same way for over 100 years. Is Atlanta poised to disrupt the status quo using data and new technologies?

I Recognize That Voice — 9:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

From animation to VO and narration, Atlanta's voice talent community examines what it takes to succeed.

Good, Fast, Cheap: Pick Two — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Filmmakers share the challenges and freedom of low budget filmmaking, plus tips and tricks to help you succeed.

Unions & Guilds — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Reps discuss who their unions/guilds represent, how to join, how they work with indie productions, and what to expect when under a union contract.

It's a Small World Afterall — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

How diversity behind and in front of the camera increases marketability and sales; delivering your message to an ever-growing diverse, worldwide audience.

Truth or Consequences — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Documentary filmmakers examine ‘truth’ in today's climate, its affect on their power to persuade, and whether agenda based or neutral approaches may work best.

Not Your Parents' Cartoons — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Network animated series creators share how new digital platforms expand distribution possibilities for their shows as well as animators in general.

#ShePersisted — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Film Fatales, PGA WIN committee, BWFN, WIFTA, New Mavericks, and more discuss opportunities for females in education, mentorship, and support.

FRIDAY, MARCH 31st

Managing Media — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Post-production companies handling studio features, network TV shows, and indie features explain best practices for organizational workflow.

Playing Games — 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

With over 100 video game studios, Georgia is a hotbed of talent, creating opportunities for gamemakers and interesting alliances with filmmakers.

Georgia On My Mind — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

Georgia has a deep and diverse music scene—how to license songs, get an original score, and use music to complement rather than overwhelm the moment.

Airport Shorts: Puppetry and Stop Motion Animation — 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Molly Coffee and friends discuss the making of “Passing 66,” her felt puppet stop motion animation airport short.

Case Study: A Scene for Sound Design — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, 7 Stages Theatre, Main

John Kassab, sound designer and producer of last year's ATLFF feature “Like Lambs,” dissects scenes from the movie to illustrate the art of sound design.

Case Study: VFX in GIFs — 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM, Plaza Theatre, Upstairs

Self-taught viral video GIF maker Chris Nik demystifies the process, explains improv comedy's influence, and how to VFX problem solve on a DIY budget.

A24's MENASHE is the Closing Night Film of the 41st Atlanta Film Festival!

directed by Joshua Z. Weinstein
USA/Israel, 2017, Yiddish, 91 minutes

Saturday, April 1, 2017, 7:30 PM — Plaza Theatre, Downstairs

Deep in the heart of New York’s ultra-orthodox Hasidic Jewish community, Menashe, a kind, hapless grocery store clerk, struggles to make ends meet and responsibly parent his young son, Rieven, following his wife Leah’s death. Tradition prohibits Menashe from raising his son alone, so Rieven’s strict uncle adopts him, leaving Menashe heartbroken. Meanwhile, though Menashe seems to bungle every challenge in his path, his rabbi grants him one special week with Rieven before Leah’s memorial. It’s his chance to prove himself a suitable man of faith and fatherhood, and restore respect among his doubters.

Executive Producer & Unit Production Manager Danelle Eliav scheduled to attend.

The Closing Night Party (sponsored by Music Matters Productions) will be held from 9 PM -12 AM at Old 4th & Swift—open to all Closing Night ticket-holders, as well as FILMMAKER, PRODUCER and ALL-ACCESS badge-holders (includes INDUSTRY, PRESS and WEEKEND 2). Wristbands for the afterparty will be distributed at the screening.

MENASHE and the Closing Night Party sponsored by:

MENASHE is presented in partnership with:

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