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Press Releases
Recent press releases from Milwaukee Film. For more information, contact Marketing Director Blyth Meier at blyth@milwaukee-film.org or 414-755-1965 x208.
Milwaukee Film is now accepting entries for the 4th annual Milwaukee Film Festival (Sept. 27-Oct. 11, 2012). Works of all genres, forms and lengths are considered. The deadline for all entries is Friday, June 15. New this year, the festival is offering free submission for all films.
MILWAUKEE – March 14, 2012 – Milwaukee Film is now accepting entries for the 4th annual Milwaukee Film Festival (Sept. 27-Oct. 11, 2012). Works of all genres, forms and lengths are considered. The deadline for all entries is Friday, June 15. New this year, the festival is offering free submission for all films.
“The Milwaukee Film Festival is continuing its dedication to being filmmaker-friendly by offering free entry to all films this year,” says Artistic and Executive Director Jonathan Jackson. “We want filmmakers to save their money for filmmaking. They should put that $100 into their next film.”
Also new this year is The Milwaukee Youth Show, a showcase for filmmakers ages 18 and under as part of the Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival.
Milwaukee Film, in its ongoing efforts to inspire and promote filmmaking in southeastern Wisconsin, offers a Filmmaker-in-Residence program each year to the filmmaker who receives the Cream City Cinema Award. The Filmmaker-in-Residence program enables the winning filmmaker to make a new film using the support, guidance and resources provided by Milwaukee Film, including:
· A camera package from North American Camera, valued at over $20,000
· Complete post-production services provided by Independent, valued at over $10,000
· Mentoring and consulting services from Milwaukee Film and other industry professionals
The film is premiered at The Milwaukee Show when completed.
Previous Filmmaker-in-Residence recipients include:
· Michael Hawkins-Burgos – 2011 The Milwaukee Show winning film: Don’t Go; Filmmaker-in-Residence film: TBA
· Tate Bunker – 2010 The Milwaukee Show winning film: Mickey Burgermeister; Filmmaker-in-Residence film: Studies in Space
· John Roberts – 2009 The Milwaukee Show winning film: Mary’s Friend; Filmmaker-in-Residence film: The Wheel
The Milwaukee Film Festival will offer a cash award of at least $2,500 to our international Fiction Film Competition winner. The winning film is determined by a jury of selected industry professionals, which in past years has included A.V. Club Film Editor Scott Tobias, Oscar-winning cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, BAMcinematek Program Director Florence Almozini, and Time Out New York Film Editor David Fear, and ME @THE ZOO Producer Jack Turner. In addition, non-juried audience awards, presented by Allan H. (Bud) and Suzanne L. Selig, are given to the top-rated short- and feature-length films based on audience ratings.
Last year’s festival screened 177 films from 44 different countries with 70 filmmakers and industry professionals in attendance. The record-setting crowd of over 35,000 filmgoers flocked to 22 sold-out film screenings, 43 post-film conversations and 7 panel discussions. Special guest cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond raised the caliber of the festival with his presence during tribute screenings of Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Rose. The gracious Oscar winner also taught an enlightening master class on cinematography to local filmmakers. The festival’s popular Opening Night Party at Discovery World attracted over 1,200 people celebrating the start of 11-days of exceptional cinema.
Photos of the 2011 festival can be found on the Milwaukee Film website (http://mkefilm.org/media) and Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm/photos). A new video from last year’s sold-out The Milwaukee Show, highlighting local filmmaking talent, can be seen here: http://vimeo.com/milwaukeefilm/mkeshow2011.
The entry form and complete information regarding eligibility for the 2012 Milwaukee Film Festival is available at http://mkefilm.org/2012_entries. Questions regarding submissions may be directed to entry@milwaukee-film.org
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 35,000 attendees with 22 sold-out screenings, which included the Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema education program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the weekly email newsletter (mkefilm.org/newsletter-signup). Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog (mkefilm.org/theblog).
The 4th Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will run from September 27-October 11, 2012.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Dr. Robert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin (chair elect), Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Barry Poltermann, Bob Pothier, Joseph Rock, Jacqueline Strayer, Julia Taylor, Chad Tessmer. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film is proud to announce today that the 4th Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held September 27-October 11, 2012.
MILWAUKEE – January 17, 2012 – Milwaukee Film is proud to announce today that the 4th Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held September 27-October 11, 2012.
“Each year, we get the same feedback from our audience: they want more screenings of the films,” says Artistic and Executive Director Jonathan Jackson. “Our four-day expansion will allow us to fulfill that desire by giving us the opportunity to showcase encore screenings of audience favorites like past audience award-winners Waiting for ‘Superman’ and Louder Than A Bomb.”
Last year’s festival screened 177 films from 44 different countries with 70 filmmakers and industry professionals in attendance. The record-setting crowd of over 35,000 filmgoers flocked to 22 sold-out film screenings, 43 post-film conversations and 7 panel discussions. Special guest cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond raised the caliber of the festival with his presence during tribute screenings of Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Rose. The gracious Oscar winner also taught an enlightening master class on cinematography to local filmmakers. The festival’s popular Opening Night Party at Discovery World attracted over 1,200 people celebrating the start of 11-days of exceptional cinema.
Photos of the 2011 festival can be found on the Milwaukee Film website (http://mkefilm.org/media) along with a new video from last year’s Opening Night (http://vimeo.com/milwaukeefilm/mff2011openingnight).
The 2012 Call for Entries and festival venues will be announced in the upcoming months.
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About Milwaukee Film
Milwaukee Film’s mission is to create and operate in Milwaukee an internationally recognized cultural institution centered on the moving image that will entertain, connect, enlighten and enliven our community. Milwaukee Film’s programs include the annual Milwaukee Film Festival, the Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, and Collaborative Cinema.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the weekly email newsletter (mkefilm.org/newsletter-signup). Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog (mkefilm.org/theblog).
The 4th Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held September 27-October 11, 2012.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Dr. Robert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Barry Poltermann, Bob Pothier, Joseph Rock, Jacqueline Strayer, Julia Taylor, Chad Tessmer. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film is proud to announce the expansion of their Collaborative Cinema education program to include opportunities for adults interested in all aspects of filmmaking. The first program offered is an Adult Screenwriting Program, in addition to the continuation of the successful Teen Screenwriting Program for students in grades 9-12.
MILWAUKEE – November 30, 2011 – Milwaukee Film is proud to announce the expansion of their Collaborative Cinema education program to include opportunities for adults interested in all aspects of filmmaking. The first program offered is an Adult Screenwriting Program, in addition to the continuation of the successful Teen Screenwriting Program for students in grades 9-12. The registration period for adults is open now through Friday, February 17, 2012. High School students must submit a one-page idea for a short screenplay to be chosen for their workshop. Interested writers at both levels can register or submit through the Milwaukee Film website: mkefilm.org/education. The first screenwriting workshops will be held on February 25 (Teen) and 26, 2012 (Adult), and all finalized scripts become contenders to be made into a short film during the Collaborative Cinema summer film shoot.
“We are so enthusiastic about opening our program and resources to filmmakers beyond high school,” says Susan Kerns, Education Director at Milwaukee Film. “Writing is an integral component of a successful film, and I am told frequently that people who know how to write for the screen are the most difficult people to find in Milwaukee. I don’t believe they aren’t out there, though. I think the communities simply are not connecting yet.”
Entering its fifth year, Milwaukee Film’s Collaborative Cinema provides high school students, college students, and emerging film professionals with an enhanced understanding of filmmaking at all stages. Beginning with screenwriting and including all elements of filmmaking from pre-production to distribution, the program aims to educate and increase the diversity of the local film community while building a network of students and professional filmmakers to be the future of the Wisconsin film industry.
Each year, Collaborative Cinema receives one-page short film ideas from area high school students. Writers of the top 50 ideas are invited to a one-day workshop with professional screenwriters, where they learn how to turn ideas into scripts. All finished scripts will be considered for our summer film shoot, in which students and professionals work together to make a festival-quality film. The film will premiere at during the 2012 Milwaukee Film Festival.
“In the past three years, each of our crews has included at least 25 college film students and emerging film professionals,” Kerns explains. “Collaborative Cinema has become a bridge for the local film community from classroom practice to professional sets, and many of the program’s alumni now work professionally. Milwaukee Film provides hands-on learning for aspiring filmmakers, but it also helps spur the filmmaking industry in Wisconsin by providing job training and a film ‘calling card’ for the area.”
DATES
Jan 27: Teen Workshop submissions due; Adult Workshop early registration deadline
Feb 17: Adult Workshop late registration deadline
Feb 25: Teen Workshop #1
Feb 26: Adult Workshop #1
Mar 31: Teen and Adult Workshop #2
FEES
**Teen Workshops are FREE for all attendees.
Adult Screenwriting Program: Early Registration (Through Jan 27, 2012):
$40/person
$30/Milwaukee Film Member
$25/College Student (with student ID number and active student email address)
Adult Screenwriting Program: Late Registration (Jan 27 – Feb 17, 2012):
$50/person
$40/Milwaukee Film Member
$30/College Student (with student ID number and active student email address)
For more information on the screenwriting program or any of Milwaukee Film’s education initiatives, visit mkefim.org/education or email Education Director, Susan Kerns: susan@milwaukee-film.org.
Milwaukee Film’s Collaborative Cinema education program is sponsored by the Richard and Ethel Herzfeld Foundation, the Mary L. Nohl Fund, Independent, and North American Camera.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 35,000 attendees with 22 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema education program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the weekly email newsletter (mkefilm.org/newsletter-signup). Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog (mkefilm.org/theblog).
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival was held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Bob Pothier, Joe Rock, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
The Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, concluded with 22 sell-outs and a total attendance of 35,703--a hugely successful third year of international cinema, panels and celebrations, with ticket sales increasing 17% from last year’s already impressive increase of 50%. In addition, the year-round membership program grew from 166 members at the end of the 2010 festival to a current total of 406.
MILWAUKEE – October 3, 2011 – The Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, concluded last night with the film On Tour (Tournée), ending its 11-day run featuring 177 films from 44 different countries. The closing night film was the finale of a hugely successful third year of international cinema, panels and celebrations, with ticket sales increasing 17% from last year’s already impressive increase of 50%. In addition, the year-round membership program grew from 166 members at the end of the 2010 festival to a current total of 406.
“It’s humbling to see how far we have come as a film festival in only three years. That success is part of a huge collaboration between our board, staff, volunteers, sponsors, and most importantly, our extraordinary audience,” said Jonathan Jackson, Artistic and Executive Director for Milwaukee Film. "We are incredibly lucky to have so many dedicated individuals that come together to help create exceptional experiences through cinema that foster dialogue, educational experiences, cultural exploration and just some fun and meaningful times. Numerous visiting filmmakers and guests noticed the unique energy surrounding our young festival, which is quickly growing in prominence on the national stage."
The film festival kicked off on Thursday, September 22 with the sold-out Opening Night film, Natural Selection, with producer Brion Hambel and lead actor Matt O’Leary in attendance. The excitement carried on to the Opening Night Party at Discovery World, where over 1,200 people celebrated the festival with great music, food, drinks and entertainment.
Milwaukee Film Festival’s support for local filmmakers is unrivaled nationally, showcased by an electric night in the beautiful main room of the Oriental Theatre on Thursday, September 29 for The Milwaukee Show. A sold-out crowd of over 1000 film lovers of all ages gathered to support the year’s best in local short filmmaking.
Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, presented by PNC, experienced a staggering 400% growth in attendance, from 910 in 2010 to 3,710 in 2011. The festival also included four successful daytime screenings just for area students, from elementary to high school.
Special guest cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond raised the caliber of the festival. Milwaukee was honored by his presence during tribute screenings of Close Encounters of the Third Kind and The Rose. The gracious Oscar winner also taught an enlightening master class on cinematography to local filmmakers.
Additional highlights include the screening of frontrunner for the 2012 Best Documentary Oscar, The Interrupters, which received a powerful reaction from the Milwaukee community. Director Steve James, producer Alex Kotlowitz, co-producer Zak Piper from Chicago’s Kartemquin Films, along with subjects of the documentary, joined in a lively question and answer session following a sold-out screening of the film at the Oriental Theatre. The screening was followed on Monday by a special edition of “On the Issues” with Mike Gousha, which explored violence prevention efforts in Milwaukee. The panel took place at Marquette University Law School and reviewed the variety of approaches in action aimed at reducing Milwaukee’s violent crime problem with an eye towards improving the youth violence problem.
The Milwaukee Film Festival concluded with the announcement of the festival award-winners, with the coveted Cream City Cinema Award for local filmmaking going to Michael Hawkins-Burgos for the short film Don't Go. Hawkins-Burgos receives a year-long filmmaker residency at Milwaukee Film, a prize package worth $20,000 including camera equipment, use of production facilities and a $2,500 cash award. Full list of awards follows.
2011 MILWAUKEE FILM FESTIVAL AWARDS
Allan H. (Bud) and Suzanne L. Selig Audience Awards
Best Feature Film: Louder Than A Bomb (Directors: Greg Jacobs, Jon Siskel)
Best Short Film: The Wheel (Director: John Roberts)
Cream City Cinema Award
Sponsored by North American Camera and Independent
$20,000+ Filmmaker Services Prize Package, $2500 cash, year-long filmmaker residency with Milwaukee Film
Winner: Michael Hawkins-Burgos, Don't Go
Jurors:
Derek Waters (Director, Drunk History, MFF 2010)
David Lowery (Director, Pioneer, MFF 2011)
Justine Nagan (Executive Director, Kartemquin Films)
Steve Burrows (Director, Chump Change)
Fiction and Documentary Competition
Presented by Donald and Donna Baumgartner
$2500 cash prizes
Fiction Winner: Nothing's All Bad (Smukke Mennesker) (Director: Mikkel Munch-Fals)
Fiction Jurors:
Ericka Frederick (Producer)
Jeff Kurz (Producer)
John Anderson (Film Critic, Variety)
Documentary Winner: Somewhere Between (Director: Linda Goldstein Knowlton)
Documentary Jurors:
Barry Poltermann (CEO, About Face Media)
Jon Siskel (Director, Louder Than A Bomb, MFF 2011)
Tula Goenka (Professor, Syracuse University)
Formatt Hitech Cinematography Award
$2500 in value of Formatt Hitech products
Winner: András Nagy, cinematography for Bibliothèque Pascal
Juror:
Vilmos Zsigmond (Oscar-winning Cinematographer)
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival was held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, Joe Rock, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film, in conjunction with the Marquette University Law School, is pleased to announce a special edition of “On the Issues” with Mike Gousha titled “The War on Violent Crime in Milwaukee.”
MILWAUKEE – September 15, 2011 – Milwaukee Film, in conjunction with the Marquette University Law School, is pleased to announce a special edition of “On the Issues” with Mike Gousha titled “The War on Violent Crime in Milwaukee.”
The panel discussion will explore violence prevention efforts in Milwaukee, extending from the Milwaukee Film Festival screening of The Interrupters. This frontrunner for the 2012 Best Documentary Oscar from filmmaker Steve James (Hoop Dreams) focuses on three Chicago residents who once employed violence, but now try to “interrupt” it in hopes of defusing gang altercations, foiling murder plots and inspiring some of Chicago’s most downtrodden souls to find their true calling.
“Given recent events in Milwaukee, this conversation is incredibly timely. Marquette University Law School and I are thrilled to bring this important conversation to our city,” says Mike Gousha, moderator for the discussion.
Gousha and the panel will explore the variety of approaches in action aimed at reducing Milwaukee’s violent crime problem, decipher what is working, and whether new strategies are needed to address a surge in youth violence. Panelists include Milwaukee Police Chief Edward Flynn, Children’s Court Judge Joe Donald, Safe and Sound Executive Director Barbara Notestein, restorative justice advocate Ron Johnson, and Pedro Hernandez, volunteer at the United Community Center and original member of Youth Crime Analysis Meeting (YCAM). This event will be held in Eckstein Hall on the Marquette campus at 12:15pm on Monday, September 26, 2011.
Seating is very limited so attendees are urged to RSVP. Email rsvp@milwaukee-film.org by Thursday, September 22, 2011 to guarantee a seat.
For more information on Marquette University Law School’s role in hosting the panel, visit:
http://law.marquette.edu/current-students/issues-war-violent-crime-milwa...
For more information about The Interrupters and Milwaukee Film Festival’s tribute to Chicago’s Kartemquin Films, visit: http://milwaukee-film.org/content/kartemquin
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film launches the 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival with an Opening Night Party at Discovery World on Thursday, September 22, 2011 from 8:30pm to 1:00 am. The party follows the Opening Night film, Natural Selection, at the Oriental Theatre.
MILWAUKEE – September 13, 2011 – Milwaukee Film launches the 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival with an Opening Night Party at Discovery World on Thursday, September 22, 2011 from 8:30pm to 1:00 am. The party follows the Opening Night film, Natural Selection, at the Oriental Theatre. Milwaukee Film Marketing Coordinator, Ghazal Sheei, with the help of David Caruso from Dynamic Events, have planned a signature Opening Night Party that celebrates the festival as a whole, while highlighting individual films premiering in Milwaukee throughout the festival.
The evening includes a Beauty Bar by Neroli Salon & Spa, an art exhibit and sale featuring limited edition screen printed film posters by Milwaukee artists, a red carpet with photos presented by Tap Milwaukee, great raffles, a “Previews Theater” playing film festival trailers, music from 88NINE Radio Milwaukee and WMSE 91.7FM, live music, burlesque dancing and a very special guest deejay from New York City. Partygoers also enjoy hors d'oeuvres compliments of Bartolotta Catering & Events at Pier Wisconsin and two free drinks courtesy of Bacardi and MillerCoors.
“This is our third year presenting the Milwaukee Film Festival’s Opening Night Party at Discovery World and we couldn’t be more thrilled. The event will truly be a unique experience for guests given the quality of entertainment, food and drink; it will be a night to remember,” shares Jonathan Jackson, Artistic and Executive Director of Milwaukee Film.
The Sound Travels Tent presented by 88NINE Radio Milwaukee features a fantastic music lineup all night long. In homage to the Spotlight film, Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life, Milwaukee musicians William Seidel (Decibully), Ryan Schleicher (Juniper Tar), Fran Switalski (The Flips), Austin Dutmer (Jaill), Jason Todd (Def Harmonic) and Matthew Gorski (Fresh Cut Collective) will perform as Sex and Cigarettes, a one-night-only band paying tribute to the iconic music of the 1960’s French legend, Serge Gainsbourg.
With the festival’s Passport: India program in mind, New York-based DJ Rekha, host of Basement Bhangra at S.O.B.’s, closes out the night. Her music blends traditional Bhangra music of South Asia with the fresh hip-hop beats of today. In between sets, 88NINE’s Marcus Doucette spins 1960’s music from France to India.
The Brew City Bombshells Burlesque add sass, brass and humor to the evening with their award-winning dancers, comedy acts and a variety of other skits. Their performance is a nod to the Closing Night film, On Tour, about an American burlesque group traveling to France to take the Parisian stage by storm.
Taking over Discovery World’s Pilot House is the Grolsch Filmworks Lounge designed by CORT Event Furnishings. The Lounge includes soundtrack trivia with WMSE 91.7FM’s Dori Zori and an exhibit of screen printed poster art inspired by festival films from Eric Von Munz (Outrage), Dwellephant (Louder Than A Bomb), Alyssa Schulte (Nostalgia for the Light), Orchard Street Press (Gainsbourg: A Heroic Life), Francisco Ramirez of Bureau of Print Research and Design (Robot and Close Encounters of the Third Kind), Kari Couture (The Interrupters) and Eric Hancock (for Valley Maker).
Tickets for the Opening Night Party are $20, $10 with an Opening Night Film ticket stub and free with a Festival Pass. For a complete schedule of events, visit: http://www.milwaukee-film.org/content/opening-night-party-0.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film proudly announces the opening of the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival Box Office. Festival goers can purchase tickets at festival box office locations including the Landmark Oriental Theatre, Marcus North Shore Cinema, and Marcus Ridge Cinema. Milwaukee Film also announces a new Spotlight film, Coriolanus, an acclaimed Shakespeare adaptation starring Ralph Fiennes, Vanessa Redgrave and Gerard Butler.
MILWAUKEE – September 8, 2011 – Milwaukee Film proudly announces the opening of the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival Box Office. Festival goers can purchase tickets at festival box office locations including the Landmark Oriental Theatre, Marcus North Shore Cinema, and Marcus Ridge Cinema. The Landmark Downer Theatre box office opens September 23. Attendees can also purchase tickets online through the Film Guide or over the phone by calling (414) 727-8468 from 11am to 6pm, seven days a week.
Milwaukee Film also announces a new Spotlight film, Coriolanus, featuring Ralph Fiennes (The English Patient, Schindler’s List), Vanessa Redgrave (Mary Queen of Scots, Howard’s End), Gerard Butler (Rock N Rolla, The Phantom of the Opera), and rising star Jessica Chastain (The Tree of Life, The Help, The Debt). In this cinematic take on William Shakespeare’s tragedy by the same name, Fiennes, who also directs Coriolanus, plays the banished hero of Rome who allies with his sworn enemy for revenge. The gritty cinematography from Barry Ackroyd (The Hurt Locker) paired with bombed-out locations in Belgrade produce a powerful no-holds-barred update on the Bard's classic tale of power and politics.
Coriolanus makes its Milwaukee premiere on the Marcus North Shore Cinema’s Ultra Screen on October 1 at 7:00 pm. Tickets for the film are now on sale and available to purchase online, in person and by phone.
With 26 sold-out screenings at last year’s festival, attendees are urged to purchase tickets in advance. Tickets are $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and students, $8 for members and $6 for children 12 and under. Bulk tickets (10 tickets for $9 each or $7.50 each for members) and festival passes ($350 or $250 for members) are also available; festival passes offer unlimited access to all festival films and events.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce new ways that simplify ticket sales, including online ticket ordering for members and color-coded tickets and vouchers that better communicate information to the festival goers. This year’s festival will undoubtedly be a smooth experience for our attendees,” says Kyle Heller, Managing Director at Milwaukee Film.
The 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival is presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, rolls out the red carpet for numerous guests this year, including acclaimed actors, directors, producers, panelists and guests.
MILWAUKEE – September 7, 2011 – The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, rolls out the red carpet for numerous guests this year, including acclaimed actors, directors, producers, panelists and guests.
“We are unbelievably thrilled to host so many talented film industry professions this year, including Oscar-winning cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, ASC, Gordon Quinn, co-founder of Kartemquin Films, stars Rachael Harris and Matt O’Leary from our Opening Night film, Natural Selection and numerous directors, producers and cast members from our diverse 2011 lineup,” says Jonathan Jackson, Artistic and Executive Director of Milwaukee Film. “The fact that we are welcoming so many notable individuals from around the world, shows just how much Milwaukee Film has grown in its three years as an organization. We hope it continues to attract positive attention for Milwaukee’s burgeoning film community.”
As part of Milwaukee Film Festival’s Kartemquin Tribute, Kartemquin co-founder and Artistic Director Gordon Quinn and Executive Director Justine Nagan will be in attendance. From the incredibly powerful Kartemquin documentary, The Interrupters (a frontrunner for the 2012 Best Documentary Oscar), director Steve James (also director of Hoop Dreams), Alex Kotlowitz (producer), Zak Piper (co-producer/Kartemquin's Director of Production) and subjects Eddie Bocanegra, Ameena Matthews, and Cobe Wiliams will be in attendance.
Oscar-winning cinematographer Vilmos Zsigmond, ASC, who has provided the cinematic eye to renowned directors such as Steven Spielberg and Robert Altman, will speak on behalf of his 1978 sci-fi blockbuster Close Encounters of the Third Kind and the 1979 film, The Rose.
From the award-winning Opening Night film, Natural Selection, actress Rachael Harris (The Hangover, “Modern Family”), along with co-actor Matt O’Leary and producer Brion Hambel, will be in attendance at the Oriental Theatre on Thursday, September 22. Harris plays a devoutly Christian Texas housewife whose life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her husband has a son—from a sperm bank. This quirky indie comedy received seven awards at SXSW, including the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award.
Director J. Clay Tweel of the Marcus Ridge Cinema Opening Night Film, Make Believe, along with subjects Bill Koch, Derek McKee and Krystyn Lambert will attend both the Friday, September 23 and Sunday, September 25 screenings. Make Believe is a documentary following six diverse teens from around the world who embark on a journey to become World Teen Champion at Las Vegas’ World Magic Seminar.
Jon Siskel, director of the Teen Spotlight film, Louder Than A Bomb, will attend the Saturday, October 1st Oriental Theatre screening with Kevin Coval, founder of the annual teen poetry slam which the film is based on; along with several passionate teen subjects from the film: She'Kira McKnight, Lamar Jorden, Jesus Lark, Charles Smith, and Kevin Harris.
Representing the new country-specific program, Passport: India, is assistant director, Karan Talwar, from the Hindi film Aarakshan; Van Maximilian Carlson, director of the historical documentary Bhopali; and Rajasekar “Jack” Ayyanar, Executive Producer of the sci-fi film Robot.
Full List of Scheduled Attendees (check mkefilm.org for updates):
- Rajasekar “Jack” Ayyanar (Executive Producer, Robot)
- Alison Bagnall (Director, The Dish and the Spoon)
- Eddie Bocanegra (Subject, The Interrupters)
- Van Maximilian Carlson (Director, Bhopali)
- Michael Collins (Director, Give Up Tomorrow)
- Kevin Coval (Subject, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Benjamin Fingerhut (Director, Breaking and Entering)
- Brion Hambe (Producer, Natural Selection)
- Kevin Harris (Subject, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Rachael Harris (Actress, Natural Selection)
- Steve James (Director, The Interrupters, Hoop Dreams)
- Lamar Jorden (Subject, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Bill Koch (Subject, Make Believe)
- Alex Kotlowitz (Producer, The Interrupters)
- Krystyn Lambert (Subject, Make Believe)
- Jesus Lark (Subject, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Zachary Levy (Producer/Director, Strongman)
- David Lowery (Director/Writer, Pioneer - Out of this World Shorts Program)
- Ameena Matthews (Subject, The Interrupters)
- Derek McKee (Subject, Make Believe)
- She'Kira McKnight (Subject, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Justine Nagan (Executive Producer, The Interrupters)
- Matt O’Leary (Actor, Natural Selection)
- Tristan Patterson (Director, Dragonslayer)
- Zak Piper (Co-producer, The Interrupters)
- Andrew Putschoegl (Director, Hello Caller – Midnight Shorts Program)
- Gordon Quinn (Executive Producer, The Interrupters)
- Jack Sanderson (Producer/Writer, Becoming Santa)
- Joshua James Sandoval (Subject, Dragonslayer)
- Jon Siskel (Director, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Charles Smith (Subject, Louder Than a Bomb)
- Marty Syjuco (Producer, Give Up Tomorrow)
- Karan Talwar (Assistant Director, Aarakshan)
- J. Clay Tweel (Director, Make Believe)
- Cobe Wiliams (Subject, The Interrupters)
- Vilmos Zsigmond, ASC (Cinematographer, Close Encounters of the Third Kind, The Rose)
Milwaukee Filmmakers
- Kate Balsley (Director, Anima Mundi – The Milwaukee Show)
- Daniel Boville (Director, Secrets of Animal Navigation – The Milwaukee Show)
- Celia Carroll (Writer, Memento Mori – The Milwaukee Show)
- Lisa Danker (Director/Producer, Please Remember Me – The Milwaukee Show)
- Karen Erbach (Director, Memento Mori – The Milwaukee Show)
- Michael Hawkins-Burgos (Director/Producer/Writer, Don't Go – The Milwaukee Show)
- Sean Kafer (Director/Producer, Valley Maker)
- Susan Kerns (Director/Producer/Writer Missed Connections; Producer, Memento Mori – The Milwaukee Show)
- Frankie Latina (Director, Are You Busy?)
- Anthony Lopez (Director, Points of Interest)
- Blyth Meier (Director, Everyday – The Milwaukee Show)
- Kara Mulrooney (Director/Producer/Writer Missed Connections – The Milwaukee Show)
- Kurt Raether (Director, Documenting Westphal – The Milwaukee Show)
- John Roberts (Director/Producer, The Wheel – The Milwaukee Show)
- Jon Salimes (Director, Points of Interest)
- Ryan Sarnowski (Director/Producer, Passing the Baton)
- Nick Sommer (Director, Are You Busy?)
- Chris Thompson (Director, Are You Busy?)
Panelists
- Usama Alshaibi: Award-winning filmmaker (American Arab Preview)
- John Anderson: Film critic for Variety and The New York Times (State of Cinema: Keynote Address)
- Dr. Louise Cainkar: Professor of Arab-American studies at Marquette University (American Arab Preview)
- Tula Goenka: Professor, filmmaker, editor, human rights activist (Not Just Bollywood)
- Brad Lichtenstein: Milwaukee filmmaker (Representing Labor)
- Casey McMillan: Lawyer for HARPO Productions (Avoiding Legal Pitfalls: What Every Filmmaker Should Know)
- Affnan Mohammed (Political Science/Middle Eastern Studies scholar, American Arab Preview)
- Justine Nagan: Executive Director of Kartemquin Films (Social Outreach & Engagement)
- Gordon Quinn: Co-founder and Creative Director for Kartemquin Films (Social Outreach & Engagement, Representing Labor)
- Carmelita Tiu: Lawyer for HARPO Productions (Avoiding Legal Pitfalls: What Every Filmmaker Should Know)
- Jack Turner: New York-based independent film producer (Work In Progress Panel)
- Naomi Walker (National Community Cinema Coordinator with ITVS, Social Issues)
The 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival Program Book was released on September 3, 2011. Tickets go on sale this Thursday, September 8 at the Oriental Theatre, North Shore Cinema, Ridge Cinema, by phone and online at www.mkefilm.org.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
After much anticipation, Milwaukee Film unveils its full lineup of 177 films from 44 countries for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.
MILWAUKEE – September 1, 2011 – After much anticipation, Milwaukee Film unveils its full lineup of 177 films from 44 countries for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. The official launch of the highly coveted 60-page program book will take place Saturday, September 3, at Made in Milwaukee, an all-day event celebrating local business, art, music, fashion and culture at Cathedral Square Park. The full festival schedule will also be made available online Tuesday, September 6.
“The stellar lineup of award-winning, groundbreaking and compelling films at the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival will surely astound audiences and critics,” shares Jonathan Jackson, Artistic and Executive Director of Milwaukee Film. “We have an incredible festival this year, packed with special events, post-film discussions, expert-led panels, and numerous appearances by actors, directors and producers.”
Opening Night kicks off on Thursday, September 22, 7pm at the Oriental Theatre with Natural Selection, the award-winning debut film from Robbie Pickering, featuring actress Rachael Harris (The Hangover, “Modern Family”). This quirky indie comedy received seven awards at SXSW, including the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award. Milwaukee Film is incredibly proud to host actors Rachael Harris, Matt O’Leary and producer Brion Hambe at Opening Night.
The Salt of Life, from the director of MFF 2010’s favorite Mid-August Lunch, opens the North Shore Cinema on Friday, September 23. Gianni Di Gregorio returns with a charming comedy full of true-to-life characters and plenty of self-mockery.
Also on Friday, September 23, Make Believe, a documentary following six diverse teen magicians from around the world who embark on a journey to win the title of Teen World Champion, opens the Ridge Cinema. Director J. Clay Tweel along with cast members Bill Koch, Derek McKee and Krystyn Lambert will be in attendance performing magic at both the Friday and Sunday screenings.
Programming Highlights
- Natural Selection (Opening Oriental Theatre)
A devoutly Christian Texas housewife's life takes a dramatic turn when she discovers her husband has a son—from a sperm bank. Featuring actors Rachael Harris and Matt O’Leary.
- The Salt of Life (Opening North Shore Cinema)
Gianni, a recently retired mama's boy, tries to escape his less-than-perfect life with hilarious and awkward attempts at scoring a lover.
- Make Believe (Opening Ridge Cinema)
Armed with great skill and dazzling illusions, six teen magicians from around the world embark on a journey to win the title of Teen World Champion in Las Vegas.
- Like Crazy (Festival Centerpiece)
In this beautifully acted Sundance Grand Prize winner, two college students attempt a long-distance relationship when one must move to London, featuring actors Felicity Jones, Anton Yelchin and Jennifer Lawrence.
- On Tour (Closing Oriental Theatre)
French star Mathieu Amalric’s latest film blends backstage vérité and road-trip escapades, this joyous dramedy follows a bawdy bevy of burlesque performers on a trek through France.
Tickets for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival go on sale Thursday, September 8 at the festival box offices at the Landmark Oriental Theatre, Marcus North Shore Cinema, and Marcus Ridge Cinema, by phone (414-737-8468) and online at www.mkefilm.org.
NOTE: The 2011 Press Credential application is now live: http://milwaukee-film.org/accreditation
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film announces a new country-focused program for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, spotlighting the home of the world’s most prolific film industry: India.
MILWAUKEE – August 30, 2011 – Milwaukee Film announces a new country-focused program for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, spotlighting the home of the world’s most prolific film industry: India. Home to multiple regional film industries based in each of the country’s major languages, it is the most-attended cinema in the world. Like the Indian national economy, it is also undergoing a time of transition—as “Hindie” cinema splinters from Bollywood.
With Passport: India, Milwaukee Film aims to cover the wide scope of films that are representative of Indian cinema--from more traditional, contemporary Bollywood hits like the jaw-dropping sci-fi extravaganza Robot and documentaries made by outsiders like the sobering Bhopali on the lingering effect of the Union Carbide gas leak to the inspiring independent film I am Sindhutai Sapkal, a fictional biopic on the legendary Sindhutai Sapkal, who in the face of extreme personal hardship found the strength to create five orphanages and defend the rights of the downtrodden.
“What better way to launch our new country-focused program than to spotlight the home of the largest film industry in the world, India.” says Jonathan Jackson, Artistic and Executive Director of Milwaukee Film. “Passport: India brings to Milwaukee audiences legendary actors (Amitabh “Big B” Bachchan, Aishwarya Rai, and Aamir Khan), show-stopping song and dance, hard-hitting documentaries, and a bold new film from a young director that’s shattering all preconceived notions of romance in Indian cinema.” This special program was put together with assistance from local filmmaker Lajwanti Waghray.
Milwaukee Film Festival’s Passport: India seeks to show that Indian cinema is much more than “Bollywood.” Tula Goenka, Associate Professor of Television-Radio-Film at Syracuse University, filmmaker, and author of the forthcoming book, Not Just Bollywood: Conversations with Indian Filmmakers explains, “Contemporary Indian cinema is pushing past its popular image by creating films that push the envelope both in storytelling content and form.” Goenka will present and lead a discussion, “Not Just Bollywood,” on Saturday, September 24, 2pm, in Room 316 of Kenilworth Square East (1925 E. Kenilworth Place).
The 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, runs from September 22 through October 2. The full lineup and schedule for the festival will be announced Saturday, September 3 and program books will be available to pick up for the first time at Made in Milwaukee in Cathedral Square Park. Tickets go on sale September 8 for the general public.
Passport: India lineup:
- Aarakshan
This high-voltage drama delves into the current debate over India's caste-based version of affirmative action—with a danceable Bollywood soundtrack.
- The Bengali Detective
In this colorful portrait of modern India, a pudgy, dance-obsessed detective investigates crimes when he’s not rehearsing for a reality-show audition.
- Bhopali
Award-winning director Van Maximilian Carlson paints a chilling portrait of lives shattered by the Union Carbide gas leak in Bhopal, India.
- Gandu (Asshole)
This gritty tale trails Gandu, an explosive 20-year-old with a penchant for thrash-rap and a name that translates to “asshole.”
- I am Sindhutai Sapkal
After being abused and abandoned, Sindhutai Sapkal finds the strength to found five orphanages and defend the rights of the downtrodden.
- Marathon Boy
A coach enters a 4-year-old in marathons after seeing him dash through an Indian slum, but child endangerment accusations threaten to cut both of their careers short.
- Mumbai Diaries
Though separated by class and culture, an artist, a laundry boy, and a banking exec turned photographer connect in ways they never dreamed possible in this Bollywood about-face.
- Robot
India’s inaugural sci-fi flick features riveting song-and-dance routines and a Frankenstein-inspired story of a lovesick robot.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film is proud to announce a tribute to Kartemquin Films as part of the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, from September 22 through October 2.
MILWAUKEE – August 23, 2011 – Milwaukee Film is proud to announce a tribute to Kartemquin Films as part of the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, from September 22 through October 2. The full lineup and schedule for the festival will be announced Saturday, September 3 and program books will be available to pick up for the first time at Made in Milwaukee in Cathedral Square Park. Tickets go on sale September 8 for the general public.
Kartemquin Films is a Chicago-based non-profit documentary powerhouse celebrating 45 years of creating innovative documentaries and pursuing social justice through film. The tribute includes the local premieres of their two newest films, The Interrupters and A Good Man, as well as a presentation of their landmark 1994 documentary Hoop Dreams, and a preview of in-progress film American Arab.
The Interrupters, directed by acclaimed documentarian Steve James, examines violence in Chicago and was hailed by Slate Magazine as “the most necessary film of the year.” Several key subjects of the film will join James for the Saturday, September 24 screening at the Landmark Oriental Theatre.
“I am delighted that we are presenting Steve James latest masterpiece, The Interrupters, at the festival. I view the film as the most important documentary of the year,” said Milwaukee Film Artistic and Executive Director Jonathan Jackson. “We had great success last year with community engagement around screenings of Waiting for “Superman” and are looking to do the same this year with The Interrupters.”
The festival’s tribute will also feature the local premiere on Saturday, October 1 of another new Kartemquin Films production, A Good Man, which profiles modern dance provocateur Bill T. Jones taking on the legacy of Abraham Lincoln, and is co-directed by Gordon Quinn, Kartemquin’s Co-Founder and Artistic Director.
“We’re thrilled to be collaborating with the Milwaukee Film Festival to bring a wide array of our work to Wisconsin audiences,” said Justine Nagan, Kartemquin Films’ Executive Director. “The panels and films that they selected show the breadth and history of our work, as well as some of our exciting new projects. Kartemquin is happy to be partnering with another strong midwestern film institution to bring people together and create meaningful dialogue and discussion around media.”
Gordon Quinn, Justine Nagan and Steve James will attend the events along with Kartemquin’s Director of Production (and The Interrupters co-producer) Zak Piper, and filmmakers Usama Alshaibi and Brad Lichtenstein.
A series of panels will also be included as part of the tribute during the 11-day film festival, listed below.
Tribute Highlights Include:
- The Interrupters
A frontrunner for the 2012 Best Documentary Oscar, Steve James’ newest film follows the transformative trio of Ameena, Cobe, and Eddie as they defuse gang altercations and violent incidents, and inspire some of the city's most downtrodden souls to find their true calling.
- A Good Man
Filled with raw emotion and stunning talent, this documentary by Gordon Quinn and Bob Hercules follows modern-dance provocateur Bill T. Jones, Kennedy Center Honoree and Tony-winning choreographer of the Broadway hits Fela! and Spring Awakening, as he creates an ambitious new piece about Abraham Lincoln’s legacy.
- Hoop Dreams
Dubbed "one of the greatest movies ever made" by the folks at Sports Illustrated, Steve James' Hoop Dreams is a testament to the notion that a film really can change one's life. Even critic Roger Ebert says no other documentary has touched him as deeply as this story of Arthur and William (a Marquette alum), two inner-city athletes who’ll do almost anything to make it to the NBA.
- American Arab Preview
Award-winning filmmaker Usama Alshaibi (Nice Bombs) shares a sneak preview of his in-progress documentary, American Arab, and engages the audience in conversations about the contemporary relevance of the work and its changing themes. Joining Alshaibi on the panel is Arab-American studies expert Dr. Louise Cainkar (Marquette University). Alshaibi began American Arab as Kartemquin Films’ 2009 Diversity Fellow, a program supported by The John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation and the Ford Foundation.
- Social Outreach and Engagement Panel
These days, building and engaging your film’s audience must happen long before completing the project. Join us for a dynamic conversation with documentary filmmakers from Chicago’s Kartemquin Films about the importance of blending old-school outreach with new-school social media engagement. Kartemquin brings to the discussion 45 years of filmmaking and engagement experience on a variety of issues, including aging, immigration, the death penalty, stem cell research and urban violence.
- Representing Labor Panel
Labor unions are a divisive issue. Documentary films, like those from Kartemquin, show the role American unions play in history and tell the stories of their people. Filmmakers and union insiders consider how film represents this charged issue, especially in clips from Kartemquin’s 1980s labor films and Milwaukee filmmaker Brad Lichtenstein’s forthcoming film, As Goes Janesville (being made in association with Kartemquin). Panelists will discuss the role of media in union organizing, what really happens in collective bargaining and the direction of unions today. Screenings of two Kartemquin Films labor documentaries—The Last Pullman Car (1983) and Taylor Chain II (1983)—will follow this panel.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
About Kartemquin Films
Founded in 1966 to produce documentaries that examine and critique society through the stories of real people, Kartemquin Films serves as a home for independent media makers who seek to create social change through film. This Chicago-based documentary powerhouse has won every major critical and journalistic prize, including an Emmy, a Peabody and an Oscar nomination. 2010 was the most productive year in Kartemquin’s history, with the release of three new features (Typeface, Prisoner of Her Past, and No Crossover: The Trial of Allen Iverson), and production on five works-in-progress.
In 2011, Kartemquin celebrates their 45th anniversary with the release of two new documentaries: The Interrupters and A Good Man, and a number of local and national events and retrospectives.
A revered resource within the film community on issues of fair use, ethics, story structure and civic discourse, Kartemquin is internationally recognized for crafting quality documentaries backed by effective audience engagement strategies, and for its innovative media arts community programs. Kartemquin is a 501(c)3 not-for-profit organization. www.kartemquin.com. @Kartemquin. Facebook.com/Kartemquin. Youtube.com/Kartemquin.
Milwaukee Film is pleased to announce the lineup and sponsors for the second-annual Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, the all-ages program of the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, running September 22 – October 2.
MILWAUKEE, AUGUST 16, 2011 – Milwaukee Film is pleased to announce the lineup and sponsors for the second-annual Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, the all-ages program of the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival presented by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, running September 22 – October 2.
“We have more than thirty award-winning films from around the world between the features and shorts, and I couldn't be more thrilled that Milwaukee families have the opportunity to see them during the festival,” says Brian Gallagher, Co-Director (with Julia Magnasco) of Take One. “Our prescreening committee, made up of area educators and parents alike, put together a truly first class lineup of children's films.” This year’s Take One festival is comprised of three international features and three shorts programs aimed at a variety of age levels.
Take One feature film lineup for 2011:
Mia and the Migoo (all ages)
Winner of the European Film Award for Best Animated Film, this stunningly beautiful and thrilling family adventure pits plucky, wild-haired young heroine Mia against profit-hungry developers, with the future of life on Earth in the balance.
A Cat in Paris (ages 7+)
This animated French festival hit is a frisky mystery that unfurls in the alleys and on the rooftops of the French capital, Paris, over the course of one adventurous evening.
The Crocodiles (ages 10+)
A live-action wild adventure-comedy film reminiscent of The Goonies follows a band of crime-fighting scrappy kids, adopted from the popular ’70’s German novel.
The short film programs are also broken up by age—Kids Shorts: Size Small (ages 3+), Kids Shorts: Size Medium (ages 7+), and Kids Shorts: Size Large (ages 11+). Each program includes several award-winning films from around the globe. Educators will facilitate discussions and lead hands-on activities after each film.
Kids Shorts: Size Medium includes Milwaukee native Aaron Greer’s new short film “Gettin’ Kicks.” Greer currently lives and teaches in Chicago, but is still active in Milwaukee’s film community, and shot a portion of the new film locally. “Milwaukee Film is committed to showcasing the work of regional filmmakers alongside our international programming, so Aaron’s film is a perfect fit,” says Susan Kerns, Education Director at Milwaukee Film. “It is also an ideal experience for kids to interact with the filmmaker right after they see the film.”
Take One also is expanding its education screenings for area students in fourth through twelfth grades. “I am so incredibly excited that students will have the opportunity to see world-class films at the historic Oriental Theatre and discuss them with their peers, educators, and filmmakers,” says Kerns. “Our aim is to promote media literacy for Milwaukee youth through experiencing films from other cultures.” Each education screening includes a question-and-answer session immediately following the film and curriculum packets for teachers to use in their classrooms.
PNC Bank is pleased to be the presenting sponsor of Take One. “PNC is proud to continue in our support of Milwaukee Film's ‘Take One’ Children's festival and the positive impact the festival is creating in the Milwaukee community. Take One's hands-on learning opportunities and experiences are directly in line with how PNC invests in the community - and we're pleased to be part of this growing event and its critical educational mission,” says Chad Tessmer, Vice President and Director of Client and Community Relations at PNC.
Additional sponsors include Marcus Theatres and the Brewers Community Foundation. Bruce J. Olson, president of Marcus Theatres, says, “The Milwaukee Film Festival is fundamental to our city’s culture and we’re happy to do our part to support it.”
Take One films will screen on weekends during the Milwaukee Film Festival: September 24 and 25 at the Marcus Ridge Cinema in New Berlin, and October 1 and 2 at the Marcus North Shore Cinema in Mequon. Additionally, the films will screen at the Landmark Oriental Theatre on Milwaukee’s Eastside during both weekends of the festival.
Note: High-resolution film stills are available upon request.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit mkefilm.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, Chad Tessmer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film is thrilled to announce a long-anticipated venue expansion for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, to take place September 22 - October 2. The expansion includes the addition of the Landmark Downer Theatre on Milwaukee’s East Side, with the Marcus Ridge Cinema in New Berlin being utilized for the entire duration of the festival.
MILWAUKEE, JULY 26, 2011 – Milwaukee Film is thrilled to announce a long-anticipated venue expansion for the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, to take place September 22 - October 2. The expansion includes the addition of the Landmark Downer Theatre on Milwaukee’s East Side, with the Marcus Ridge Cinema in New Berlin being utilized for the entire duration of the festival. Both join the existing festival venues–the Landmark Oriental Theatre (East Side) and Marcus North Shore Cinema (Mequon). Each venue will host two film festival screens this year, with the exception of the Downer Theatre, which will feature one screen.
“Last year’s audience grew fifty percent from 2009 and we’re hopeful this year will also see significant growth. The venue expansion allows us to better accommodate the festivalgoers and filmmakers as well as build upon our new long-term partnerships with the best film venues in Milwaukee and its surrounding communities,” says Jonathan Jackson, Executive Director for Milwaukee Film. “The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for us.”
The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, over the course of the 11-day festival, which included the inaugural Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival. The four venues announced for 2011 encompass Milwaukee’s diverse neighborhoods and substantially increase the opportunity for viewing the best contemporary American and international cinema presented at the Milwaukee Film Festival.
“We are very pleased to have the Marcus North Shore as part of the film festival for the third consecutive year and even more so to have the Ridge Cinema become an integral part of the festival. The Ridge was used during the last weekend of the 2010 film festival and was such a success that we were invited back to host the whole length of the 2011 festival,” shares Bruce J. Olson, president of Marcus Theatres. “The Milwaukee Film Festival is fundamental to our city’s culture and we’re happy to do our part to support it.”
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit www.milwaukee-film.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (twitter.com/mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board of Directors
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers, Jacqueline Strayer, and Julia Taylor. Emeritus members: Chris Abele (past chair), Tom Barrett.
Milwaukee Film announced Celia Carroll as the winner of the 2011 Collaborative Cinema Screenplay Contest. “The Magical Camera,” written by the Shorewood High School senior, has been chosen after a seven-month-long process, involving a field of over 100 area students and three professional development workshops.
MILWAUKEE, WI – May 3, 2011 - Milwaukee Film announces winner of high school screenplay contest
Milwaukee Film announced Celia Carroll as the winner of the 2011 Collaborative Cinema Screenplay Contest. “The Magical Camera,” written by the Shorewood High School senior, has been chosen after a seven-month-long process, involving a field of over 100 area students and three professional development workshops.
The tale of a lone huckster whose photographs steal souls, “The Magical Camera” will be produced into a short film this July by Milwaukee Film and screened during the 2011 Milwaukee Film Festival, September 22-October 2. The mixed crew of industry professionals, college students and high school interns will be helmed by director and Milwaukee native Christian Otjen (“Reeseville” from the 2003 Milwaukee International Film Festival and “Lady in the Box”), and producers Mark Metcalf (Milwaukee Film Collaborative Cinema Director) and Susan Kerns (Milwaukee Film Education Director). Milwaukee-based producer, writer and former Miramax Films executive Jeff Kurz, along with Christian, will continue mentoring Celia through the pre-production writing process.
Reflecting upon hearing the news, Celia said, “I'm actually still in shock that I won! When I found out, I squealed, did a dance, and then dissolved into a fit of giggles. In that order. The competition is such a great opportunity and I'm ridiculously excited to start the process. I feel exceedingly blessed to have the chance to work with people who are so influential in Milwaukee film, and to be able to see how movies are made! I can't even imagine what it will be like to see something that I wrote on the big screen. I'm excited and nervous and amazed, all at the same time.”
Rounding out the top three scripts are "The Duck" by Rufus King International School sophomore Jack Ceschin and "Sempre Giusto" by Greendale High School junior Samantha Kosarzycki. All three students will receive a cash prize from Milwaukee Film. Additional writing mentors for the Screenplay Contest were: Tate Bunker, Ryan Dembroski, Karen Erbach, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Michael Graf, Aaron Greer, Karen Lindholm-Rynkiewicz, Brett Notbohm, Kevin Peterka, Anwar Floyd-Pruitt, Iverson White, and former Collaborative Cinema Screenplay Contest winner Vinnie Balistreri.
Milwaukee Film’s Collaborative Cinema education program is funded by the Richard and Ethel Herzfeld Foundation and the Mary L. Nohl Fund of the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. More information and lo-res photos can be found at: http://milwaukee-film.org/collaborative-cinema. Hi-res images are available upon request.
New Education Director Susan Kerns
Milwaukee Film hired local educator and filmmaker Susan Kerns as Education Director, a new position added to the Milwaukee Film staff. Susan is a former Milwaukee Film volunteer who has served on the Features Screening Committee, as well as a variety of roles in the Collaborative Cinema program, from writing mentor to film producer.
“I am absolutely thrilled to be working with Milwaukee Film so early in its existence,” said Susan. “Collaborative Cinema is already established as an exceptional educational program, and there is such huge growth potential for the Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival. I believe it can become one of the leading children’s film festivals in the nation, and I look forward to spearheading that process.”
Susan has taught in the English, Film Studies, and Art History departments at UWM, where she is completing her Ph.D. Co-founder of Gal Friday Films, Susan has worked in film as an actress, writer, and producer. Her first feature as a screenwriter, “Resurrection Ferns,” is slated for a fall 2011 release. She currently is co-producing the documentary “Last of the Lawsonomists” and is in post-production on the short “Missed Connections,” a space-age musical based on personal ads.
Mark Metcalf will continue as the Collaborative Cinema Director, a position he has held since the inception of Milwaukee Film in 2008.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema. The 2010 Milwaukee Film Festival drew over 30,000 attendees with 26 sold-out screenings, which included Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program designed to engage children and enhance media literacy through film. The organization also supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in film production to high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program.
Visit www.milwaukee-film.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (@mkefilm) and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
The 3rd Annual Milwaukee Film Festival will be held from September 22-October 2, 2011.
About the Milwaukee Film Board
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Tom Barrett, Sue Black, Tina Chang, Eva Chess, Jim Clark, Bert Davis, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers and Julia Taylor. Emeritus member: Chris Abele (past chair).
Milwaukee Film is thrilled to announce that Allan H. (Bud) and Suzanne L. Selig have renewed their support of the festival for another three years, totaling $400,000, including $100,000 in 2011 and increasing to $150,000 in both 2012 and 2013.
MILWAUKEE – January 11, 2011 - Milwaukee Film is thrilled to announce that Allan H. (Bud) and Suzanne L. Selig have renewed their support of the festival for another three years, totaling $400,000, including $100,000 in 2011 and increasing to $150,000 in both 2012 and 2013. The Selig family was one of the first major supporters of the festival in 2008, committing $100,000 for each of the 2009 and 2010 festivals.
“Sue and I have been very pleased to see many other supporters of the arts join us at the Milwaukee Film Festival in recent years,” said Bud Selig. “The Milwaukee Film Festival has become a very enjoyable platform for the people of our city, and we are looking forward to being a part of the event again and continuing its growth.”
In recognition of this generous gift, The Allan H. (Bud) and Suzanne L. Selig Audience Award is given each year to the overall audience favorite films in the feature and short film categories. The 2010 winners were the critically acclaimed Waiting for ‘Superman’ (feature; dir. Davis Guggenheim) and exceedingly hilarious Drunk History: Tesla & Edison (short; dir. Jeremy Konner).
2011 Festival Dates Announced
Milwaukee Film has set the dates for the third annual Milwaukee Film Festival for September 22 – October 2, 2011. Venues and ticket information will be announced in early spring. The 2010 festival’s total film screening attendance of over 30,000 was a 50% increase from the 2009 festival.
New Board Chair
As previously announced, Bill Haberman is the new board chair for Milwaukee Film, taking over from Chris Abele, who held the position for the first two years of the organization. Haberman is a partner at Michael Best & Friedrich, LLC and President of the Richard & Ethel Herzfeld Foundation, the largest funder of Milwaukee Film to date. “In a short time, The Milwaukee Film Festival has established itself as one of the city’s great cultural events,” said Bill Haberman. “I look forward to working closely with our tremendous board of directors and passionate staff to get the word out about this highlight of Milwaukee’s festival calendar.”
New Hire
Angela Catalano has been hired as Executive Assistant/Membership Coordinator, a new position added to the Milwaukee Film staff. Angela previously served as Hospitality Coordinator for the 2009 and 2010 festivals and is currently finishing her M.A. in Media, Cinema and Digital Studies at UW-Milwaukee.
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About Milwaukee Film
Founded in 2008 as a nonprofit organization dedicated to hosting Milwaukee’s premiere film festival, Milwaukee Film provides incredible opportunities to view the best contemporary American and international cinema through year-round screenings in addition to the annual Milwaukee Film Festival and the Take One: Milwaukee Children’s Film Festival, a special program section designed to engage and educate children in media literacy. The organization supports local filmmakers and gives firsthand experience in the cinematic art form to local high school students through its Collaborative Cinema program. Visit www.milwaukee-film.org for information on the film festival and the organization, membership, special events, ticket availability, promotions and contests, and to sign up for the email list. Connect with Milwaukee Film on Facebook (facebook.com/MilwaukeeFilm) and on Twitter (@MkeFilm), and visit the Milwaukee Film blog at www.milwaukee-film.org/theblog
About the Milwaukee Film Board
Milwaukee Film’s independent board is made up of the following members: Chris Abele, Tom Barrett, Sue Black, Tina Chang, Jim Clark, Jeff Fitzsimmons, Alec Fraser, Bill Haberman (chair), Carmen Haberman, Stacey Herzing, Patti Keating Kahn, Tracey L. Klein, Mary Ann LaBahn, Steve Laughlin, Marianne Lubar, Steve Mech, Andy Nunemaker, Bob Pothier, John Rogers and Julia Taylor.
