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Film Festival hosts epic love story 'Bride Flight' premiere in Sedona Nov. 8

2011-10-26T10:54:00.002-07:00

'Bride Flight'

Tale inspired by true story of the 1953 'Last Great Air Race' debuts in festival's cinema series

A forbidden love, an impossible choice and a secret pact are all the ingredients of the epic award-winning drama “Bride Flight” which will premiere in Sedona on Tuesday, Nov. 8 as part of the Sedona International Film Festival’s Tuesday Cinema Series. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

“Bride Flight” is getting rave reviews from critics and audiences all around the world. Rex Reed from the New York Observer calls the film “lavishly entertaining … fascinating, beautifully acted and magnificently photographed.” Moving Pictures Magazine calls “Bride Flight” a “haunting masterpiece with the power of ‘Doctor Zhivago’!” And the San Francisco Chronicle rates it five stars and calls it “exhilarating!”

Spanning over five decades, “Bride Flight” is inspired by the true story of the 1953 "Last Great Air Race" from London, England to Christchurch, New Zealand.

Eager to escape the damp and suffocating atmosphere of post-war Holland, Dutch beauties Marjorie, Ada and Esther meet each other on the immigration flight to New Zealand, en route to join their future husbands — who are already settled there — for what they hope will be a better life.

On the plane trip overseas — dubbed the “Bride Flight” — the three become fast friends and meet Frank, a young man who is also immigrating to seek a prosperous life in New Zealand. He will come to play a critical role in each of their lives.

In their early years in this new country, their lives become entangled in brief relationships of love, lust and family before losing touch. It is only when the women reunite again fifty years later at Frank’s funeral that they discover how much their lives had become intertwined through their different relationships with Frank.

From the director of the Academy Award-nominated “Twin Sisters”, Ben Sombogaart, comes this epic love story that tells a universal story of forbidden love and secrets held for over half a century.

“The core of the movie for me is that the lives of three women and one man — four intriguing and moving characters — become interwoven,” said Sombogaart. “One important theme is the confrontation with the past. The main characters are in search of happiness. They want to build a new life in a far away country. But they are also fleeing.”

“Just like in my film, ‘Twin Sisters’, they are courageous people who are trying to survive. But can you escape your past? In the end it always catches up with you. That is the tragedy for me.”

“Bride Flight” is a romantic and captivating epic for all ages. Older viewers will recognize the image of the time and the historical facts, younger viewers the experiences of the three twenty year olds. It is a timeless story that touches and moves you, with recognizable emotions and characters. It is about young people in search of adventure, who long for a new beginning, their own existence and who must make important decisions.

The title sponsor for this film premiere event is Events by Showstoppers. The series is also made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Bride Flight” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Nov. 8 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

Moving and inspiring drama 'Life, Above All' premieres in Sedona Oct. 11

2011-09-29T15:58:00.005-07:00

Inspiring drama 'Life, Above All' premieres in Sedona Oct. 11
Award-winning international film debuts in Sedona Film Festival's Tuesday Cinema Series

The award-winning critical and audience sensation “Life, Above All” premieres in Sedona on Tuesday, Oct. 11 in the Sedona International Film Festival’s Tuesday Cinema Series. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

A touching and inspiring story, “Life, Above All” made its world premiere at the Cannes Film Festival and went on to play at the Toronto International Film Festival and several other prestigious festivals around the world, winning top awards at several of them. It was also selected as the coveted closing night film for the Human Rights Watch International Film Festival.

The film was also South Africa’s official entry for the Best Foreign Language Film for the recent Academy Awards.

“Life, Above All” is an emotional and universal drama about a young girl (stunningly performed by first-time-actress Khomotso Manyaka) who fights the fear and shame that have poisoned her community.

Just after the death of her newly-born sister, Chanda, 12 years old, learns of a rumor that spreads like wildfire through her small, dust-ridden village near Johannesburg. It destroys her family and forces her mother to flee. Sensing that the gossip stems from prejudice and superstition, Chanda leaves home and school in search of her mother and the truth.

“Life, Above All” captures the enduring strength of loyalty and a courage powered by the heart.

Directed by South African filmmaker Oliver Schmitz, the film is based on the international award-winning novel Chanda’s Secrets by Allan Stratton.

Like the novel it is based on, “Life, Above All” is a story about children who have to take on responsibilities much too early in life and never get to experience a normal childhood. It is a universal issue that affects children all over the world. The film is a hopeful tale about the power of friendship, solidarity and loyalty.

Roger Ebert praises “Life, Above All” as “pure human drama … with deep human emotions, evoked with sympathy and love.”

Time Magazine raves, “Alone among the films at Cannes, ‘Life, Above All’ was one that had critics cheering like school kids, in a 10-minute standing ovation, and wiping tears from their eyes. It has the high art and big heart of any award-worthy film!”

The title sponsors for this special film premiere are The Verde Valley Sanctuary and Mary Fisher. The series is also made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Life, Above All” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Oct. 11 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

'Another Earth' makes Sedona debut in film festival series Oct. 4

2011-09-22T17:12:00.001-07:00

“Another Earth” explores the realm of speculative fiction while taking us on a journey through the deep and mysterious cosmos within the human heart. The Sedona International Film Festival presents the exclusive Northern Arizona premiere of the film on Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

'Another Earth' makes Sedona debut in film festival series Oct. 4
Award-winning breakout hit from the Sundance Film Festival makes Northern Arizona premiere

If you could meet another version of yourself, what would you say? What if you had another chance at a life just like this one, only different? What would lure you, what would scare you; and what, if anything, would stop you?

These questions and more are explored in Mike Cahill’s intimate and provocative feature “Another Earth”. The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to present the exclusive Northern Arizona premiere of the film on Tuesday, Oct. 4. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

“Another Earth” explores the realm of speculative fiction while taking us on a journey through the deep and mysterious cosmos within the human heart. Inside the story’s fantastical concept of an alternate Earth and an unprecedented space quest, lies the stripped down, starkly moving relationship of two people on a far more personal journey — one that navigates through remorse, anger, forgiveness, hope and sheer wonder.

“Another Earth” tells the starkly moving story of Rhoda Williams (Brit Marling), a brilliant young woman searching for a way to right a terrible tragedy. She lives in a world just like ours, except that suddenly — overnight — a mysteriously similar planet (provisionally dubbed Earth 2) has appeared in the sky, like a giant, reflective mirror hanging over us.

For Rhoda, that strange, eerie planet, and the parallel reality scientists say it promises, is her last hope. Lost after a shocking accident halted her dreams of becoming an astrophysicist, she has no sense of the future. Driven in life only by the need to confront her past, Rhoda ends up at the front door of the man whose life she irrevocably changed: renowned composer John Burroughs (William Mapother).

Both disconnected, mistrustful and full of doubts about who they are, they fall into an unlikely — and risky — love affair. But when Rhoda gets the incredible chance to travel to Earth 2, it will expose the hidden truth between them and raises the question: what if the greatest mystery in the vast unknown is ourselves?

“It is a truly unique film,” says the star of the film Brit Marling. “We were interested in provoking peoples’ imaginations, stirring their sense of wonder. It thrusts you into a world where anything is possible, including an alternate reality of you. The other Earth became a way to hold up a mirror to ourselves, our culture, our world and force a confrontation.”

A breakout hit at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, “Another Earth” won the Alfred P. Sloan Prize for the best film as well as the Special Jury Prize for Dramatic Feature.

The title sponsor of this special film premiere is The Verde Valley Archaeology Center. The Center is dedicated to the care and management of archaeological sites and artifacts found throughout the Sedona/Verde Valley area. With classes, lectures, workshops and exhibits, the Center fosters a deeper understanding of human history through the science of archaeology and the cultural materials that remain. The Center opened its doors in Camp Verde this past May with historic display cases provided by the Tuzigoot National Monument and exhibits provided by the Yavapai-Apache Nation.

The series is also made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Another Earth” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Oct. 4 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3-4, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

Romantic comedy 'Young Goethe in Love' premieres in Sedona on Sept. 27

2011-09-19T11:02:00.001-07:00

Sparkling cinematography, gorgeous costumes and sets, and ill-fated love — these are the ingredients in Philipp Stölzl’s engaging historical drama “Young Goethe in Love” which makes its Arizona premiere in Sedona on Tuesday, Sept. 27. The film, presented by the Sedona International Film Festival, recreates the early years of Germany’s most famous literary genius: Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe.

Romantic comedy 'Young Goethe in Love' premieres in Sedona on Sept. 27
Film festival presents Arizona debut of charming, intelligent German period comedy

The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to present the exclusive Arizona premiere of the delightful new German romantic comedy “Young Goethe in Love” on Tuesday, Sept 27. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

“We are so proud to feature this brilliant, intelligent charmer,” said Sagan Lewis, the film festival’s program director. “It is a comedy that delights the heart and the intellect!”

Sparkling cinematography, gorgeous costumes and sets, and ill-fated love — these are just the ingredients needed to lovingly recreate the early years of Germany’s most famous literary genius: Johann Wolfgang Von Goethe. Before Goethe wrote the hugely influential “The Sorrows of Young Werther”, he lived its story of love lost.

It is this period of time that is so affectingly covered in Philipp Stölzl’s engaging historical drama “Young Goethe in Love”.

This lively biopic traces the great author's impetuous early years, including his struggle to become a writer despite his father's disapproval, his haphazard pursuit of a law career, and the intense romance with Lotte Buff (played with great vivacity by Miriam Stein).

Alexander Fehling plays Goethe who takes a job clerking for Judge Kester (Moritz Bleibtreu) in a sleepy provincial court after failing his doctorate. Bored with his menial tasks, he continues to defy his father’s wishes by persisting with his writing. Then one day he meets the lovely Lotte. Sparks fly and — as the courtship progresses — love blooms. Suddenly his life has changed and nothing is the same as before.

However, the young lovers are unaware that her father has already promised Lotte’s hand to another man, so their happiness is short-lived. Goethe’s first romantic experience would forever alter the course of the literary world.

Director Phillip Stölzl (“Northface”) returns to the very wellspring of Romanticism — Goethe’s autobiographical masterpiece “The Sorrows of Young Werther” — and conjures up a beguiling and refreshingly innocent period romance.

Critics and audiences are raving about the film and Alexander Fehling’s portrayal of the title character saying “Fehling is perfect in the role of Goethe, giving a sense of energy and a multifaceted intelligence to his portrayal of the young literary genius. He is at the same time magnetic and charming!”

The title sponsor of this special film premiere is Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa. The series is also made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Young Goethe in Love” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Sept. 27 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3-4, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

'Burlesque' returns to Sedona in Cinema Under the Stars on Sept. 20

2011-09-09T13:52:00.003-07:00

“Burlesque” — starring Cher and Christina Aguilera — is the story of a small-town girl with a big voice who escapes hardship and an uncertain future to follow her dreams to Los Angeles. Her spectacular voice restores The Burlesque Lounge to its former glory. In honor of the film festival’s seventh anniversary of presenting its Tuesday night series, all tickets to the Sept. 20 outdoor event will be $7.00 each.

'Burlesque' returns to Sedona in Cinema Under the Stars on Sept. 20
Film Festival presents film and concert at Tequa Marketplace to celebrate music and the movies

The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to present “Cinema Under the Stars” at Tequa featuring the return of the rousing crowd-pleaser “Burlesque” on Tuesday, Sept. 20. There will be one screening of the film outdoors at the Tequa Marketplace courtyard in the Village of Oak Creek.

A live concert performance compliments of the Celtic Harvest Festival will kick off the evening at 6 p.m. Come early, bring lawn chairs and blankets … and celebrate music and the movies at the festival’s final outdoor film of the season. “Burlesque” will follow the concert at dark.

In honor of the film festival’s seventh anniversary of presenting its Tuesday night series, all tickets to the event will be $7.00 each.

“This is our way of thanking the community and our audience members for their support over the past seven years since we introduced the Tuesday Cinema Series,” said festival director Patrick Schweiss. “This promises to be an extraordinary night of music and film under the beautiful Sedona night skies!”

“Burlesque” — starring Cher and Christina Aguilera — played to rave audience reviews when it premiered last fall.

“The lavish production numbers leave audience members tapping their feet and practically dancing in the aisles, which is why we thought it would be the perfect film finale to our summer outdoor series,” added Schweiss.

Ali (Christina Aguilera) is a small-town girl with a big voice who escapes hardship and an uncertain future to follow her dreams to Los Angeles. After stumbling upon The Burlesque Lounge, a majestic but ailing theater that is home to an inspired musical revue, Ali lands a job as a cocktail waitress for Tess (Cher), the club’s proprietor and headliner. Burlesque’s outrageous costumes and bold choreography enrapture the young ingénue who vows to perform there someday.

Soon enough, Ali builds a friendship with a featured dancer (Julianne Hough), finds an enemy in a troubled, jealous performer (Kristen Bell), and garners the affection of Jack (Cam Gigandet), a bartender and fellow musician.

With the help of a sharp-witted stage manager (Stanley Tucci) and a gender-bending host (Alan Cumming), Ali makes her way from the bar to the stage. Her spectacular voice restores The Burlesque Lounge to its former glory, though not before a charismatic entrepreneur (Eric Dane) arrives with an enticing proposal.

Food and beverages will be available for purchase from the Tequa Marketplace restaurants. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, blankets and beach towels.

The Celtic Harvest Festival will kick off the evening with a special concert performance. Tramor (Overseas) is the new traditional music project of John Good. John is well known through out the West, South, Midwest and in his native Wales as a multi-instrumentalist, Welsh piper, singer/songwriter, composer and poet. Veteran of many Celtic festivals and concerts, including Estes Park, Chicago, San Diego and Denver, he brings the subtly different flavor of traditional Welsh music to the Phoenix stage. On this occasion he is aided and abetted by mandolin virtuoso Billy Parker.

The title sponsor for the event is Tequa Marketplace. The series is also made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Burlesque” will be shown outdoors at Tequa Marketplace in “Cinema Under the Stars” on Tuesday, Sept. 20, with a pre-film concert beginning at 6:00 p.m. Tickets are all $7 each for this special event, and will be available starting at Tequa beginning at 5 p.m. that evening. Cash or checks only.

Tickets can be purchased or reserved in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. State Route 89A, Suite 3A in West Sedona, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

Arizona Centennial Film Festival Just Around the Corner!

2011-09-06T13:41:00.001-07:00

The Prescott Film Festival is thrilled to add to the festivities surrounding the Arizona Centennial Film Festival with the Arizona Centennial Film Festival, (AZCFF.)

AZCFF will be held during the AZ Best Fest September 16 – 18th at Hendrix Auditorium, which will be right next door to the Native American Village, on the campus of Prescott Mile High Middle School.

The festival has spent the last few months combing through the approximately 2,500 films and television shows shot in Arizona over the years and came up with an entertaining cross-section of films from the silent era forward. Here are some of the highlights of the festival;

Historic movie posters on display in the lobby: Local film historian Tom Slaback is loaning the festival part of his vast collection of movie posters from Tom Mix to Murphy’s Romance! All the posters are from films made in Arizona. This will be in the lobby of the theatre, and open for viewing whenever the AZCFF is open.

Film commentaries: Several films will have discussions before or after their screenings:
1. Tom Slaback will talk about: The Law and the Outlaw a silent film from 1913, filmed in Prescott and starring Tom Mix
2. Pride of the Bowery filmed in Prescott in 1940 (Much of it filmed downtown Prescott)
3. Arizona Bound filmed in Prescott in 1941

4. Gayle Gardner worked on the film Wanda Nevada and she will take part in a Q&A after the screening of the film

5. Gail Steiger will discuss his film, Ranch Album, after the screening, along with participants from the film. Made in 1987 the film is a snap-shot of ranch life in Yavapai County that year.

Cowboy Poets:
1. Mike Dunn will give the audience a short selection of Cowboy Poetry before the screening of Murphy’s Romance
2. Gail Steiger will also share some of his Cowboy Poetry before the screening of his film, Ranch Album

Books on movie-poster art throughout the years will be given away in between each film

· If you are in the movie Junior Bonner; even as an extra, attend the September 16th screening and be eligible for a drawing for a free 10-pack of tickets to the Prescott Film Festival in Nov!

Tickets are a $5 donation available only at the door.
ARIZONA CENTENNIAL FILM FESTIVAL
Schedule
Friday September 16:
5:00PM
¡Three Amigos! (104 min): 1986; Coronado National Forest, Old Tucson; Steve Martin, Chevy Chase, Martin Short

7:15PM
The Law and the Outlaw (45 min): 1913; Prescott; Tom Mix; Yavapai County film historian Tom Slaback discussion

8:45PM
Junior Bonner (100 min): 1972; Prescott; Steve McQueen

Saturday September 17:
9:00 AM
Angel and the Badman (100 min): 1947; Sedona, John Wayne

11:15AM
Pride of the Bowery (61 min): 1940; Prescott, Leo Gorcey; Yavapai County film historian Tom Slaback discussion

1:30 PM
Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure (90 min): 1989; Tempe, Mesa, Phoenix, Scottsdale; Keanu Reeves

4:00 PM
3:10 to Yuma (92 min): 1957; Texas Canyon, Triangle T Guest Ranch, Wilcox, Sedona, Old Tucson, Amerind Foundation; Glenn Ford

6:00 PM
Murphy's Romance (107 min): 1985; Florence, Tubac, Tucson; James Garner, Sally Field
Cowboy Poet Mike Dunn, (Preceding film)

8:30 PM
Wanda Nevada (107 min): 1979; Peter Fonda, Brooke Shields, Henry Fonda; Prescott, Page; Gayle Gardner Discussion

Sunday September 18:
12:30PM
Arizona Bound (57 min): 1941; Prescott; Buck Jones; Yavapai County film historian Tom Slaback discussion

2:15 PM
Lust for Gold (90 min): 1949; Superstition Mountains; Glenn Ford

4:15 PM
Ranch Album - 1987 (65 min): Yavapai County, discussion with Producer/Director Gail Steiger, and any participants from the documentary he can "round up" for the discussion
Cowboy Poet Gail Steiger (Preceding film)

CONTACT:
Helen Stephenson
Prescott Film Festival
(928) 448-7209
helen@prescottfilmfestival.com

Directing Actor Workshop, September 17 &18

2011-08-31T15:47:00.003-07:00

Join us at the Zaki Gordon Institute for:

Directing Actors
September 17 & 18, 9am-4pm
DFM105 CRN 32677
Instructor: Shawn Nelson

ACTING COACH TO THE STARS...

Shawn has been one of Hollywood’s top acting coaches for thepast 25 years, and works with acclaimed actors Sela Ward of ‘CSI NY’ (who thanked Shawn when she accepted both of her Emmys for ‘Sisters’ and ‘Once and Again’), Eva Longoria of ‘Desperate Housewives,’ Tamara Taylor of ‘Bones,’ and day time television star Rebecca Budig - Greenlee Smyth on ABC's ‘All My Children!'

Shawn has had the honor of coaching Diane Kruger of ‘National Treasure 2’ and ‘Inglorious Bastards,’ Lena Headey of ‘Game of Thrones’ and 'The Sarah Conner Chronicles', Stephen Collins of ‘No Ordinary Family’, Efren Ramirez of ‘Napoleon Dynamite,’ and Adir Kalyan of ‘Rules of Engagement,’ Olivia Wilde of ‘House,’ and entertainment icons such as actor/director Tony Goldwyn, Matthew Fox of the hit ABC show ‘Lost,’ Amanda Bynes of the WB’s ‘What I Like About You,’ as well as legendary actress Ann Margaret, Nastassia Kinski, Jayne Meadows-Allen, actress and supermodel Kathy Ireland, country music star / actor Billy Ray Cyrus, superstar vocalists Gene Simmons, Huey Lewis, Carol Lawrence, Marilyn McCoo, Frankie Valli, and many, many others!

Shawn is a guest lecturer at colleges and film schools and is a member of AEA, AFTRA, SAG and the Directors Guild of America (DGA).

Call 928.649.4276 for more information or visit www.yc.edu to register.

Zaki Gordon Institute Kicks off Fall Semester

2011-08-26T09:31:00.003-07:00

(Sedona, AZ) More than 40 students have arrived in Sedona and are already learning
the craft of independent filmmaking. “It’s always exciting to see new students putting
their vision on film,” said Greg Gillespie, Yavapai College’s vice president. “ZGI is an
important part of Yavapai College and the Sedona community. It’s a tribute to the dream of
its founder Dan Gordon.”

ZGI Director Stephan Schultze recently announced his departure for a similar position in
Virginia. “While I’m excited about a new opportunity, I’ll leave a part of me here at ZGI,”
he said. “I’m proud to know that even though I’m making a change, ZGI will continue to
provide an excellent education to each of our students.”

Upcoming ZGI events include:

Screenwriting Workshop
August 27 & 28, 9am-4pm
DFM104 CRN 32674 – Instructor: Dan Gordon
Register at www.yc.edu

Actors Open House
September 9, 2011 from 5pm-8pm
Yavapai College’s Sedona Center for Arts & Technology
Hors d’oeuvres and beverages provided.

Film Analysis class DFM101, CRN 31533
Open to the public.
First class meets Sunday, September 11 at 9 a.m

Directing Actors Workshop
September 17 & 18, 9am‐4pm
DFM105 CRN 32677 – Instructor: Shawn Nelson
Register at www.yc.edu

Interview Techniques Workshop
September 17 & 18, 9am‐4pm
DFM111 CRN 32732 – Instructor: Kurt Lancaster, NUA Associate Professor
Register at www.yc.edu

Camera Coverage Workshop
October 7 & 8, 9am-4pm
DFM106 CRN 32684 – Instructor: Stephan Schultze
Register at www.yc.edu

Editing Esthetics Workshop
November 5 & 6, 9am-4pm
DFM107 CRN 32681 – Co-Instructors: Bryan Reinhart and Micah Johnson
Register at www.yc.edu

For more information, please call The Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking
at (928) 649‐4276.

'These Amazing Shadows' premieres in documentary series finale Sept. 6

2011-08-24T16:04:00.002-07:00

'These Amazing Shadows' premieres in documentary series finale Sept. 6
Sedona Film Festival presents a nostalgic tribute to classic movies; meet the film's editor who will be in town to host this special screening

What do the films Casablanca, Blazing Saddles and West Side Story have in common? Besides being popular, they have also been deemed “culturally, historically or aesthetically significant” by the Library of Congress and listed on The National Film Registry. “These Amazing Shadows” tells the history and importance of the Registry, a roll call of American cinema treasures that reflects the diversity of both film, and indeed the American experience itself.

“These Amazing Shadows” makes its Arizona premiere in Sedona on Tuesday, Sept 6 as the finale of the Sedona International Film Festival’s eight-week “Docs That Make a Difference” series. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

The editor of the film, Alex Calleros, will be in Sedona to host the special event and conduct a Q&A discussion following both screenings.

“Anyone who is interested in movies will love ‘These Amazing Shadows’,” said Sagan Lewis, the film festival program director. “This informative documentary not only entertains — it inspires!”

“These Amazing Shadows” is a nostalgic and moving documentary rich with imagery, interweaving clips from America’s most-beloved films (and many rarer treasures) with moving personal tales of how specific films have reflected our culture and changed lives.

The film includes interviews with the Librarian of Congress (Dr. James Billington), famous directors (including Christopher Nolan, John Lasseter, Rob Reiner, John Singleton, Amy Heckerling, and John Waters), producers (Gale Anne Hurd and James Schamus), archivists, admired actors (Tim Roth, Debbie Reynolds, Peter Coyote), and members of the National Film Preservation Board.

“These Amazing Shadows” explores the cultural impact and historical significance of American films and shows us how American cinema is truly our “family album.” The documentary explores why film endures as one of the most important mediums of art and entertainment and describes what is being done to preserve America’s film heritage. It also shows how films create deep emotional connections with audiences.

“American film really transformed the way in which a young nation learned to express itself, express its exuberance, expose its problems, and reflect its hopes,” said Dr, James Billington, the Librarian of Congress: It wasn’t simply a form of entertainment; it was living history — audio-visual history of the Twentieth century.”

For over a century, American movies have forged emotional connections with millions of viewers, providing a portal to our past, defining our present, and imagining our future. American films helped shape a global cultural language, connecting audiences across borders and different belief systems. And, just as our ancient ancestors shared stories to connect and thrive, we too share stories…retelling in our movies the mysterious experience of being alive. “These Amazing Shadows” shows us how movies are part of our history, part of our culture … and part of ourselves.

The Hollywood Reporter calls the film “Inspiring and elegantly assembled”, and Vanity Fair labels it “film montages to end all film montages!” Critics agree that “These Amazing Shadows” is a class act and terribly fun to watch … a film that will make any film geek swoon and will make a film geek out of anyone else!

Join the film’s editor Alex Calleros for a nostalgic look back at movies and the impact film has had on all of us as he joins us here in Sedona for this very special screening and Q&A.

The title sponsor of the event is Turner Classic Movies, whose host Robert Osborne brings classic films to life every week. Osborne has also become a treasured friend of the Sedona Film Festival, bringing a host of classics to the annual festival each year and coming here to share his vast knowledge of film.

The series is made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“These Amazing Shadows” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3-4, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

OPEN CALL FOR ACTORS!

2011-08-22T18:46:00.001-07:00

Open House at the Zaki Gordon Institute, September 9, 2011

Join us on September 9, 2011 from 5 pm – 8 pm
Meet the new Zaki Gordon Institute filmmakers and get your information into our database. Hors d’oeuvres and beverages provided.

Actors Open House
Yavapai College’s Sedona Center for Arts & Technology

This is a great opportunity to meet the new class of Narrative and Documentary filmmakers. You will get a chance to sit in front of the camera and tell us about yourself. Students then use these video clips as a reference when they are casting their short films.

Call for more information!
Call 928.649.4276 for more information. The Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking is located at Yavapai College’s Sedona Center for Arts and Technology at 4215 Arts Village Drive in Sedona.

'Happy' makes Northern Arizona premiere in festival series Aug. 30

2011-08-18T08:18:00.002-07:00

'Happy' makes Northern Arizona premiere in festival series Aug. 30
The award-winning filmmaking team behind "Genghis Blues" and "Beyond the Call" brings their next film to Sedona in film festival's "Docs That Make a Difference" series

Go on a journey of discovery across five continents to find the keys to happiness in the new film “Happy” which makes its Arizona premiere in Sedona on Tuesday, Aug. 30. The Sedona International Film Festival presents this one-night-only special engagement as the fifth film in its “Docs That Make a Difference” series. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

“This is one film that everyone should see — it is extraordinary!” says Beverly Hurff, the film festival events coordinator and board member who discovered the film at the Phoenix Film Festival. “Of course, we have all seen material on what causes depression. This film focuses on what makes us happy. You immediately think about — and look at — how your happiness is fulfilled.”
From Academy Award-nominated director Roko Belic (“Genghis Blues”) and the production team of “Beyond the Call” comes a new cinematic adventure. “Happy” is a feature-length documentary that leads viewers on a journey across five continents in search of the keys to happiness. The film addresses many of the fundamental issues we face in today’s society: How do we balance the allure of money, fame and social status with our needs for strong relationships, health and personal fulfillment?

Through remarkable human stories and cutting-edge science, “Happy” leads us toward a deeper understanding of why and how we can pursue more fulfilling, healthier and happier lives.

“Happy” takes the viewer from the bayous of Louisiana to the deserts of Namibia, from the beaches of Brazil to the mountains of Bhutan. Listen to the wisdom of a Kolkata rickshaw driver, the compassion of a volunteer of Mother Teresa’s Home for the Dying and the knowledge of some of the world’s leading happiness researchers.

Witness as middle school students applaud the bravery of their classmates during a moving presentation on bullying. “Happy” combines real-life human drama and science to provide insights into the mysteries of happiness.

In 2005, director Tom Shadyac (Liar Liar, Patch Adams, Bruce Almighty) handed Roko Belic a New York Times article entitled “A New Measure of Well-Being from a Happy Little Kingdom”. The article ranked the United States 23rd on its list of happiest countries. Shadyac — himself dissatisfied with his luxurious Beverly Hills lifestyle — asked Belic to make a documentary investigation into the origins of human happiness and why the U.S. ranks so low. This simple inquiry led to a global exploration of happiness research.

“Happy” was developed under the Creative Visions Foundation, a non-profit organizations which supports creative activists who use the power of media and the arts to affect positive change in the world. Belic has been filming “Happy” for the past four years and has attracted well-known experts such as Ed Diener, Sonja Lyubomirsky, Richard Davidson, Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi and others. Marci Shimoff, best-selling author of Happy For No Reason and Chicken Soup for the Woman’s Soul, narrates the film.

Wadi Rum Production films are a collaboration between two Academy Award-nominated brothers Roko and Adrian Belic. Sedona Film Festival has been proud to feature both of their previous productions: “Genghis Blues” (nominated for an Oscar) and “Beyond the Call”, which screened on five continents and won more than 70 international awards.

The title sponsors for this event are Studio Live and Sedona Performers Guild. A pre-film concert by Vismaya (Ingrid Hagelberg) will open both shows. The renowned international singer, songwriter and composer will perform a selection of jazz and cabaret songs to celebrate happiness through song around the world. She will be accompanied by Allen Ames. Plan to arrive early to enjoy the sounds of these incredible performers.

The series is also made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Happy” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Aug. 30 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3-4, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

Film Festival presents 'Marathon Boy' in documentary series Aug. 23

2011-08-16T19:08:00.003-07:00

Film Festival presents 'Marathon Boy' in documentary series Aug. 23

Powerful, acclaimed film makes its Arizona premiere in Sedona; an unforgettable hero's journey that rivals any dramatic thriller

A coach and a slum boy are united by a dream and divided by the world in the powerful, award-winning new documentary “Marathon Boy” which makes its Arizona premiere in Sedona on Tuesday, Aug. 23. The Sedona International Film Festival presents this special engagement as the fourth film in its “Docs That Make a Difference” series. There will be two screenings of the film at 4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres.

Critics and audiences agree that “Marathon Boy” is one of the top documentaries of the year. Variety Magazine calls the film “epic, artistic and even archetypal”. The Hollywood Reporter says “Marathon Boy” is “an unforgettable documentary that rivals any thriller.”

“Marathon Boy” is the dynamic epic story of a four-year-old boy who is plucked from the slums of India by his coach and trained to become India's greatest runner, but what starts as a real Slumdog Millionaire turns into the stuff of film noir: a tale of greed, envy and broken dreams.

Budhia Singh’s life reads like a Bollywood movie scripted by Dickens. Born in India, next to a railway track, abused and beaten by an alcoholic father, he is sold at the age of three by his impoverished mother to a street hawker. Destined to lead a desperate existence as a beggar, Budhia is then rescued by a concerned local judo coach, who runs an orphanage for slum children.

It doesn’t take long for Budhia to reveal his remarkable talent for running. Biranchi seizes the opportunity to do something much more symbolic for India’s poor, as he has done so many times for other slum children in the judo arena. He embarks on a mission to turn Budhia into a running phenomenon.

Within six months, Budhia has run twenty half-marathons. Within a year, he has run 48 full marathons. What makes this achievement even more remarkable is that Budhia is still only four years old.

He’s become the darling of the masses, an Indian icon, and is mobbed everywhere he goes. Now Biranchi is convinced that he has the potential to become India’s greatest runner and first Olympic marathon champion.

But with the fame comes the controversies. At the end of his record-breaking 65 km run, he collapses. With the world’s eyes on them and an international storm brewing, the Indian government decides to intervene, accusing the coach of cruelty, and threatening to take his newly-adopted son into care.

Is Biranchi effectively enslaving the boy for his own gain? Has Budhia merely traded slum squalor for sporting slavery? Or is Biranchi the man who saved Budhia from a desperate future, a man who loves Budhia as his own son?

Following Budhia's roller-coaster journey over five years, “Marathon Boy” is a Dickensian tale of greed, corruption, and broken dreams set between the heart-racing world of marathon running, the poverty-stricken slums, and the political intrigue of a modernizing India.

Nothing is what it seems in Budhia and Biranchi's riveting story, and filmmaker Gemma Atwal continually shifts viewer identification to tell both a shocking story of opportunism and exploitation, but also a touching portrait of an authentic bond between a parent and child.

The series is made possible by a grant from the Arizona Commission on the Arts and National Endowment for the Arts, the City of Sedona, and the Sedona Community Foundation.

“Marathon Boy” will be shown at Harkins Sedona Six Theatres on Tuesday, Aug. 23 at 4:00 and 7:00 p.m. Tickets are $12, or $9 for Film Festival members, and will be available starting at 3:00 p.m. that day in the Harkins lobby. Cash or checks only. Film Sedona members can purchase tickets in advance at the Sedona International Film Festival office, 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3-4, or by calling 282-1177. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

Film Festival and City of Sedona team up to present free film Sunday, Aug. 21

2011-08-16T19:01:00.002-07:00

Film Festival and City of Sedona team up to present free film Sunday, Aug. 21

Award-winning filmmakers return to Sedona for the Northern Arizona premiere of "Freedom";

Enjoy incredible new documentary, thought-provoking discussion and learn about the city's sustainability efforts

The Sedona International Film Festival is partnering with the City of Sedona Sustainability Commission and the Community Plan’s Citizen Steering Committee to present a free film and discussion on Sunday, Aug. 21. The event will feature the Northern Arizona premiere of “Freedom” — a powerful and entertaining film about sustainability and living a “green” lifestyle. There will be one matinee screening of the film at 3:00 p.m. at the brand new, state-of-the-art Sedona Performing Arts Center at Red Rock High School.

“Freedom” is the follow-up film to the Oscar short-listed and Sundance and Sedona Film Festival award-winner “Fuel” which played to rave audience and critical reviews. Filmmakers Josh and Rebecca Tickell will be in town to host the film and discussion, and the “Freedom” bio-diesel bus will also be on display for audience members to tour and explore in an interactive display.

Members of the City of Sedona Sustainability Commission will talk about Sedona’s sustainable efforts and our future in greening the city.

In the aftermath of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill, Louisiana native Josh Tickell and his wife Rebecca take an international journey to investigate alternatives to fossil fuels.

“Freedom” offers an array of green solutions. We learn about biofuels like cellulosic ethanol, plug-in hybrids and other sustainable technologies that could fulfill our transportation needs. With insightful and inspirational interviews with former Speaker of the House Newt Gingrich, former NATO Commander Wesley Clark, singer/songwriter Jason Mraz, international author Deepak Chopra and actors Ed Begley, Jr., Michelle Rodriguez and Amy Smart, “Freedom” invites people to not just get mad, but get motivated.

Above all, “Freedom” calls for a revolution in how we live. Inevitably we must shift the types of houses and cities we live in. We must rethink the way we work and change the way we treat each other and the planet. And — most importantly — we must transform ourselves.

The Sedona premiere of “Freedom” is part of a nearly four-month North American Clean Energy Tour with a focus on displacing gasoline with renewable alternatives. The Freedom Bus will be in Sedona for the screening, parked in front of the Sedona Performing Arts Center. With 18 solar panels, an E85 bio-fuel engine and power generator, energy efficiency, wind, solar and water displays and much more, the Freedom Bus is a rolling, clean energy laboratory and green mobile entertainment system.

Filmmakers Josh and Rebecca Tickell will be in Sedona to offer tours of the Freedom Bus, present the film and host a Q&A discussion following the screening.

The Sedona Sustainability Commission is a group of nine local volunteers, chosen by the Sedona City Council, to serve as an advisory board on issues related to environmental sustainability for our city. The commission was formed in 2010 and began holding monthly meetings in January. Although new, the commission is passionate and dedicated to preserving Sedona’s beauty and bringing positive and thoughtful sustainability programs to our city. The public is welcome to attend its monthly meetings. More information will be available at the “Freedom” screening event.

The Community Plan’s Citizen Steering Committee will share information about the New Community Plan update process and how citizens can be involved in this important effort. The Citizen Steering Committee for the new Community Plan will present a brief summary of the project, of ideas heard from the public to date, and a preview of opportunities for residents to make their thoughts known. These will include some workshops to be held soon on specific topics, and the "Party in a Box" which equips residents to host small meetings with friends to give their own input.

“Freedom” will be shown at the Sedona Performing Arts Center at Red Rock High School on Sunday, Aug. 21 at 3:00 p.m. All tickets are free of charge and can be reserved in advance by calling 928-282-1177 or visiting the film festival office at 2030 W. Hwy. 89A, Suite A3 in West Sedona. For more information, visit: www.SedonaFilmFestival.com.

For more information about the City’s Sustainability Commission or the Community Plan’s Steering Committee, contact the Community Development Department at 928-282-1154 or visit www.SedonaAZ.gov.

Alan Arkin - Improv Workshop

2011-08-03T09:25:00.001-07:00

Sharlot Hall Museum in Prescott and myself, Elyse April are bringing Mr. Alan Arkin and his wife, Suzanne to Prescott College Crossroads Center for:

Alan Arkin - "An Improvised Life"

Friday Night Q & A (tentatively scheduled) at The Crossroads Center, Prescott College Campus
October 14th, 7-8:30PM
$20 Advance tickets, $25 at the door

ALSO: All Day Improv. Workshop Sat. October 15th & Sun. October 16h
10AM - 6PM ( 1 and 1/2 hr. lunch and small breaks)
COST: $300 (includes FREE admittance to Q &A)
LOCATION: (TBA- in Prescott)

* ONLY 20 PARTICIPANTS - We have 7 spots open!

Please call Elyse at 928 -710-5983 for further information.

Film Festival

2011-05-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

Please join us at the 11th Annual Zaki Gordon Institute Shorts Film Festival

The graduating class of 2011 will be showcasing their films on Memorial Day Weekend - May 27-29, 2011. All proceeds are used to facilitate future screenings of student films.

FILM FESTIVAL PROGRAM
Entertaining, Informative and Inspiring!
Screening over 30 short films and several feature-length films, there is something for everyone!
Documentaries, Animation, Comedies, Dramas and Art Films

FRIDAY NIGHT
The Opening Celebration on May 27 (for Premiere Pass holders ONLY) will be held at the Andalusia Ballroom (above Reds) in the Sedona Rouge Hotel & Spa. Guests will enjoy an extended hors d'oeuvres buffet, casino games, exciting raffle prizes and mingling with filmmakers, actors and celebrity guests. The grand prize will be two Gold Passes to the Sedona International Film Festival and accommodations (booked at SIFF discretion).

SATURDAY & SUNDAY
All films will be screening at ZGI, 4215 Arts Village Drive, Sedona, AZ. Screenings begin at 10 AM on both days. Delicious food will be available at the Reel Cafe.

SATURDAY NIGHT
Screenwriting awards hosted by Dan Gordon and a Private Screening of B4, a psychological thriller. Followed by Q&A with the filmmaker, Matt Stedman.

SUNDAY NIGHT
Filmmaker Awards Ceremony & Raffle Drawing followed by the Wrap Party Barbeque. The Kiwanis team will be on hand to flip the delicious burgers donated by Dairy Queen and Nate Metro will be adding the "beat" to the Party. The Light Vibe dancers with Eric Aglia will be performing, too!

Printed programs are available at the Box Office. Box Office is open now!

Premiere Pass: $50 (must be purchased in advance, we SELL OUT every year)

Screening Passes: $8/1-Day or $14/2-Day (Purchase in advance or at the door)

FILM FESTIVAL BOX OFFICE
Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm
928-649-4284

Zaki Gordon Institute
Yavapai College’s Sedona Center
4215 Arts Village Drive, Sedona 86336
(89A and Cultural Park Place)

Visit our website for Screening Schedules and Film Synopses: http://zgi-yc.com/film-festival/

Hope to see you there!

2011 Film Festival

2011-05-15T13:48:00.001-07:00

11th Annual Zaki Gordon Institute Shorts Film Festival: BOX OFFICE is OPEN!

The graduating class of 2011 will be showcasing their films on Memorial Day Weekend - May 27-29, 2011.

FILM FESTIVAL PROGRAM
Entertaining, Informative and Inspiring!
Screening over 30 short films and several feature-length films, there is something for everyone!
Documentaries, Animation, Comedies, Dramas and Art Films

FRIDAY NIGHT
The Opening Celebration on May 27 (for Premiere Pass holders ONLY) will be held at Reds in the Sedona Rouge Resort. Guests will enjoy an extended hors d'oeuvres buffet, casino games, exciting raffle prizes and mingling with filmmakers, actors and celebrity guests. The grand prize will be two Gold Passes to the Sedona International Film Festival and accommodations (booked at SIFF discretion).

SATURDAY & SUNDAY
All films will be screening at ZGI, 4215 Arts Village Drive, Sedona, AZ. Screenings begin at 10 AM on both days.

SATURDAY NIGHT
Screenwriting awards hosted by Dan Gordon and a Private Screening of B4, a psychological thriller. Followed by Q&A with the filmmaker, Matt Stedman.

SUNDAY NIGHT
Filmmaker Awards Ceremony & Raffle Drawing followed by the Wrap Party Barbeque. The Kiwanis team will be on hand to flip the delicious burgers donated by Dairy Queen and Nate Metro will be adding the "beat" to the Party. The Light Vibe dancers with Eric Aglia will be performing, too!

Printed programs are available at the Box Office. Schedule and Program Synopsis can be downloaded, see links below.

Premiere Pass: $50 (must be purchased in advance, we SELL OUT every year)

Screening Passes: $8/1-Day or $14/2-Day (Purchase in advance or at the door)

FILM FESTIVAL BOX OFFICE
Monday-Friday, 10am-3pm
928-649-4284

Zaki Gordon Institute
Yavapai College’s Sedona Center
4215 Arts Village Drive, Sedona 86336
(89A and Cultural Park Place)

Click HERE to Download Saturday Schedule

Click HERE to Download Sunday Schedule

2011-02-18T13:24:00.003-07:00

Sedona International Film Festival Workshops are coming to ZGI next week. Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 1 - 4:30 PM. FREE!! Come join the fun!

The Sedona International Film Festival is proud to offer a series of FREE workshops on a variety of timely and important topics. These are open to EVERYONE, free of charge ... from the beginning filmmaker to the seasoned professional, to the film lover who wants a glimpse behind the scenes.

Wednesday, Feb. 23 • 1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
At Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

You’ve made a movie. Congratulations. But now what?

Four of Hollywood’s most experienced professionals will let independent filmmakers in on the secrets of how to publicize, market and sell their movies: From production through the sales maze, theatrical and other windows, all the way to the awards circuit. All are long-time members of the Motion Picture Academy and each brings a distinctive perspective.

Murray Weissman, founder of Weissman/Markovitz Communications is an icon in the entertainment PR field, recently honored with a Career Achievement Award by the respected entertainment blog, GoldDerby.com. Immediately after leaving Sedona he will again be honored before 1,000 of his peers at the annual Publicists Luncheon held at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.

Rick Markovitz is Murray’s partner and has worked in executive level positions with global advertising agencies BBDO and JWT, major entertainment companies Warner Bros and Rastar, as well as leading technology-based firms for more than 25 years. He is an expert on the online world and new media.

Leonard Morpurgo, vice president of WMC, has held executive positions at Columbia Pictures, Universal Studios and CBS and has worked in many parts of the world. He has been the unit publicist on numerous films and recently wrote a best-selling memoir about his years in the business.

Jon Sheinberg currently co-runs the production company THE BUBBLE FACTORY that he formed with his father, Sid Sheinberg (founder and former President of Universal Pictures). He operates his own movie production & consulting firm, THE MOVIE MACHINE, a full-service literary management organization and motion picture production company, delivering a full array of development, producing, sales, marketing services for writers and artists.

Wednesday, Feb. 23
3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
At Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

Investigating Cross-Cultural Dialogue: New Initiatives by Chinese Young Female Directors

Meet the head professor of the Beijing Film Academy in China, professor Huang Shixian and enjoy a cross-cultural dialogue about the new current situation and some significant changes in Chinese film industrial, particularly in the young female directors.

Professor Huang brings to Sedona a beautiful new Chinese film Close to the Sun, which has garnered international awards and acclaim and was written and directed by one of the Beijing Film Academy’s female directors (and a student of the professor’s), ChouChou, who will also be in Sedona to represent her film.

Thursday, Feb. 24
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
At Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

It Starts with a Story Workshop
Whether its a Hollywood blockbuster, a documentary, or a short film, it all begins
with the story. From concept to pitch, to finished script, our panel will discuss what
goes into gettng your story green lit. Studio or independent, what is best for your screenplay?

Thursday, Feb. 24
3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
At Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

What does a Producer do?
You can have a great script, but without a producer the film will never get made. A panel
of film and television producers talk about the many roles a producer plays to get a film made.
Script, Talent, Director, and budget are all assembled by the producer. Personal successes and pitfalls in the industry will surely lead to an enlightening conversation.

Friday, Feb. 25
1 p.m. - 3 p.m.
At Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

Lenses and Light Cinematography
How does a directors vision come to life? Cinematographers from independent to Hollywood,
discuss traditional film and contemporary High Definition techniques used to visually
tell a story. Talk about technical and artistic choices which determine emotional and intellectual quality of the scene.

Friday, Feb. 25
3 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.
At Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

Our Sustainable Future
Join John Neville (Sustainable Arizona) & Matthew Bonnstetter (SolarWorks) for a lively and informative roundtable discussion with several passionate Arizona sustainable advocates. Audience participation will be invited and encouraged.

This discussion will focus on where we are now, what we are doing and what we can or should do to become more sustainable for a better quality of life for everyone on our wonderful planet.

John Neville, president and founding board member, has been involved creatively in sustainable development and communications for more than 30 years. He has helped organizations with sustainability systems, business communications and management practices, leadership development, and diversity enhancement.

Currently, John is USGBC LEED-AP and provides sustainable systems consulting and communications services to municipalities and businesses and is a frequent guest speaker. He serves on the board of the Coconino County Sustainable Economic Development Initiative, chairs the Sustainability in Education team, works on the energy efficiency & renewables, the sustainable community indicators and the policy and communications teams. He is an emeritus board member of the Arizona Solar Energy Association and the Sedona Community Foundation.

Matthew Bonnstetter is currently a partner with SolarWorks, assisting customers to switch to clean renewable solar energy. Having spent many years in international business specializing the human development and the self-improvement area, he had an epiphany. The world of business and the natural world were out of sync, so he turned his energies to learning all he could about sustainability and natural systems. He spent ten years traveling to green expos, conferences, and related events. During his travels, he realized the power of film to help educate people on the serious issues facing humankind as we struggle to endure on our amazing planet.

Attention Actors!

2010-08-30T13:25:00.001-07:00

Yavapai College’s Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking (ZGI) hosts an Actor’s Open House Sept. 10 from 6 to 9:00 p.m. at the Sedona Center for Arts & Technology. Each year ZGI students cast local talent for upcoming student thesis projects providing a great opportunity for new and experienced actors to gain experience acting for film, exercising acting skills and the possibility of contributing a breakthrough performance in an independent film. Become a part of the actor’s database during the open house. Students shoot scenes Tuesdays during the fall semester and completed films screen at the ZGI Shorts Film Festival on Memorial Day Weekend. Headshots and resumes may also be submitted to Jeremy.hawkes@yc.edu. For more information, call 649-4276. Learn more about ZGI at www.zgi.yc.edu

Classes Open to the Public this Fall!

2010-07-22T15:20:00.006-07:00

ACTING FOR CAMERA

Editing Workshop this Summer at ZGI!

2010-06-29T08:52:00.001-07:00

Summer Workshops at ZGI!

2010-06-21T12:41:00.001-07:00

ZGI Shorts Film Festival was a Big Success!

2010-06-09T13:08:00.020-07:00

This year's festival was a great celebration of independent filmmaking in Sedona. The class of 2010 screened numerous entertaining and insightful shorts to the festival's largest audience ever. We are so thankful for the community support and to the filmmaker's families for attending all of the festivities throughout the weekend. Here are some pictures from the awards ceremony. Others will be posted soon

2010-05-10T12:30:00.000-07:00

2010-04-30T05:32:00.000-07:00

Incredible Workshops last week at ZGI in conjunction with SIFF

2010-03-04T09:38:00.009-07:00

The SIFF/ZGI workshops last week were all amazing. We are fortunate to know such a high caliber of guest speakers! Our many thanks to everyone who participated, we're all better educated because of them.

Thanks to: The Sedona International Film Festival, Kathleen Glynn, Page Ostrow, Joe Heller, Alba Francesca, Morrie Warshawski, Lise Swenson, George, Rush and Debbie Brubaker and many others that spoke at the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking.

Sedona International Film Festival Workshops at ZGI

2010-02-22T06:26:00.004-07:00

This week begins the Sedona International Film Festival (SIFF). The festival features more than 125 films, including features, documentaries, shorts and animation.

The SIFF, in conjunction with the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking, also brings Academy Award-winning, industry professionals to Sedona to teach, inspire and share their knowledge with the next generation of filmmakers.
All workshops and roundtable discussions are FREE and open to the public on a first-come, first-served basis. Most workshops are held at ZGI, but please look over the workshop information on the Film Festival website for details: Workshop Info. No tickets are required.
February 23-27, 2010. Tuesday through Saturday.

Ronald Tobias to Instruct Documentary Workshop at ZGI

2010-02-09T06:24:00.003-07:00

Documentary Interview Techniques
The Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking (ZGI) is offering the workshop "Documentary Interview Techniques." This informative workshop will provide interviewers with strategies to elicit useful and dynamic responses. The workshop will touch-on professional lighting, information about sound and camera equipment used in documentary filmmaking. Special guest speaker Ronald Tobias will be instructing this workshop. Tobias is the author of six books including “Insider’s Guide for Writing for Screen & Television,” he is a producer, writer, and director of more than 30 films. His clients include PBS, National Geographic, Animal Planet, The Discovery Channel, The Travel Channel, and international broadcasting systems in Tokyo, Sweden and Germany. Go to www.yc.edu to register.

What: Documentary Interview Techniques (DFM111)
When: Saturday & Sunday, March 6-7 9 am – 4 pm
Where: ZGI
How Much: $118

Visual Effects for Filmmaking Class Starting Soon

2010-01-06T10:56:00.002-07:00

Create stunning visual effects! Incredible opportunity to learn After Effects.

-Adobe After Effects software is used for the creation of motion graphics, animation and video effects.

-This class covers basic system setup, introduction to the After Effects interface, animations, keyframing, transformations, compositing, mattes and effects.

You'll also learn how to integrate video, FCP and Photoshop with After Effects.

January 25th through May 11th, Mondays at 6-8:45 pm

Sign up for Beginning Acting with Incredible Talent, Sagan Lewis

2009-12-21T12:23:00.001-07:00

Open Call for Actors!

2009-12-17T15:24:00.000-07:00

Four students are currently casting for their short thesis films. Actors will gain the experience of being on movie set and will also be provided with DVD's of the final film.

WHEN AND WHERE:

Friday, January 8 from 10:00am to 5:45pm, by appointment only.

Scottsdale Civic Center Library

Gold and Silver Rooms
3839 N. Drinkwater Blvd.
Scottsdale, AZ 85251-4452

Saturday, January 9 from 10:00am to 7:00pm, by appointment only.

Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

4215 Arts Village Drive
Sedona, AZ 86336-9707

Who:

All age ranges are welcome. Specific roles include:

Adult Leads

- female, mid 20's to mid 40's

- male, mid 20's to mid 40's

Young Lead

- female, 5-10 years old.

Support Cast

- males, 25 to 70 years old.

- females, 15-70 years old.

To schedule an appointment -

Scottsdale auditions - please call Jessica at 201-310-6182 or email jessicanoe@gmail.com.

Sedona auditions, please call Kyle at 928-412-2105 or email kylekolding@live.com

We look forward to seeing you!

10 Filmmakers to Watch in 2009

2009-12-16T10:38:00.003-07:00

The Independent has come out with there list of indie filmmakers to keep an eye on in the upcoming year.

Advanced Cinematography Workshop at ZGI, Open to the Public

2009-11-30T09:30:00.004-07:00

"Official Rejection"

2009-11-18T10:39:00.004-07:00

Helen from the Prescott Film Festival told me about this film. She thought it was highly entertaining and educational for people starting out in the indie film industry. Check it out and let us know how you like it.

Prescott Film Festival Series

2009-11-12T06:26:00.002-07:00

Screening on November 18th at
Prescott College Crossroads
Wednesday, November 18th, 2009 ● 6:30pm
www.prescottfilmfestival.com

Waking Dreams

On November 18th the Prescott Film Festival & Series inches a bit
towards “Bollywood” with “Waking Dreams!” This independent romantic
comedy has the culture of India on a collision course with growing up in
America. This coming-of-age story centers on a first-generation Indian
American young woman, Latha, whose favorite pastime is wat
“Bollywood” movies with her sweet grandmother. She finds herself
spending more and more time in daydreams, picturing herself as the
beautiful actress in the movies; dancing perfectly in costume with the
handsomest men on the screen, with a backdrop of beautiful and colorful
dancers behind her.

November’s Sponsors
This month we welcome three new sponsors, , Prescott College and The Motor
Lodge! We are very grateful to Horizon Air for furnishing our guest filmmaker’s flight from Los
Angeles straight into Prescott! Prescott College, along with Melanie Bishop’s Screenwriting Class, is sponsoring this months’ screening at the Crossroads Center. The Motor Lodge is hosting our filmmaker for two nights at their newly remodeled lodge on Montezuma. Thank you Prescott
College, Horizon Air and The Motor Lodge!

Gandhi at the Bat

The short film for November 18th keeps the theme of India with “Gandhi at the
Bat!” This fun “mockumentary” tells the fictional story of Mahatmas Gandhi’s
secret trip to New York where he has the opportunity to play baseball at
Yankee Stadium!
Guest Filmmaker Deepika Daggubati
The festival is very excited to announce the guest filmmaker for November,
Deepika Daggubati. Deepika wrote and directed “Waking Dreams.” Born
in India and raised in Texas, she’s been making movies since the age of 10.
Her parents, like Latha’s, wanted her to go into the medical field. She got
her bachelor’s degree in English and Psychology and her M.F.A. in Film
Production from the California Institute of the Arts. She has also written a
script for Disney and is working on several future projects.

Whether you are a filmmaker or film fan, check out the Prescott Film Festival & Series. It promises to be an evening of pure enjoyment and entertainment in beautiful and friendly Prescott Arizona where "Art without an Attitude” reigns! Tickets are
$6.50 each and may be purchased at the box office on the day of the screening. Cash or checks only please.

ZGI's Documentary Students Midterm Project is Close to Home

2009-11-10T13:39:00.007-07:00

ZGI's documentary class has chosen to chronicle the institute's decade of filmmaking instruction. Students will present their film about ZGI students, past and present, with behind-the-scenes glimpses into the lives of film school students. Diverse in their ages, ambitions and backgrounds, this documentary reveals what brought ZGI students to Sedona and how that experience changed their lives. A free screening at the Zaki Gordon Institute November 13th, 7:00 pm. For directions, www.zgi.yc.edu.

Upcoming Workshop from Master Documentarians: Interview Techniques

2009-11-09T12:08:00.005-07:00

ZGI is hosting an amazing workshop called "Documentary Interview Techniques." This informative workshop will cover Professional use of lights, sound and camera for interviews as well as questioning techniques to elicit a useful and dynamic response.

November 14-15 (begins at 9:00 am until 5:00 pm), Open to the public!

Guest Speakers:
Ronald Tobias from Montana State University, has authored six books including Insider's Guide for Writing for Screen & Television. Producer, writer, and director of over 30 films including many for PBS, National Geographic, Animal Planet, The Travel Channel, PBS, and TBS (Tokyo Broadcasting System), TV-4 (Sweden), and Pro-Sieben (Germany)

Tobias has also directed twelve films for The Discovery Channel including shows on wolves, piranha, wolverines, lions, anacondas, venomous spiders, lynx, wild mink, and the saiga.

Tobias will be joined by Ed George, director, cinematographer and editor who's worked on numerous documentaries, many for National Geographic.

ZGI Alumni Emily Warren gets great write-up in Microfilmmaker

2009-11-09T12:06:00.001-07:00

http://www.microfilmmaker.com/critiques/Issue48/Luck1.html

"More Than a Kiss"

2009-11-03T10:38:00.002-07:00

The Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking Presents:

A Free Public Screening of - More Than a Kiss

A thriller, presented by the class of 2010.

A succubus finds her victims nightly in a small desert town. She befriends the bartender, who ultimately falls under her spell and must face the consequences of his choice.

WHERE: Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking

4215 Arts Village Drive, Sedona Center for Arts and Technology, Sedona, AZ 86336, Room 34

WHEN:

November 13 at 7:00pm

We hope to see you there!

Narrative Students Get Ambitious with "More Than a Kiss"

2009-11-02T10:42:00.008-07:00

ZGI narrative students and staff have been feverishly working on their midterm project, "More than a Kiss". This is the largest project that the students participate in during their Fall semester. Up to this point they have been in production groups of 4, during this production the entire class of 21 works collaboratively. It began with their approved script, "More than a Kiss". This is the blueprint for the large scale production that turned into 7 intensive shoot days. Everyone has their specific roles for the pre-production, production and post-production of the short.

The community has been extremely receptive and generous. Home Depot donated a massive amount of lumber for their extensive set builds, Savers in Flagstaff loaned students over 4 carts full of props and wardrobe and Wayne Norman, owner of the Wild Toucan restaurant in the Village of Oak Creek, donated his vacant space for the duration of the shoot.

"The students have done a superb job and I am impressed with their professionalism", remarked Stephan Schultze, Director of ZGI.

Stephen Schultze, ZGI co-founder, explains what it takes to create a great director of photography reel

2009-10-28T12:17:00.002-07:00

Indie GoGo

2009-10-26T14:40:00.003-07:00

ZGI student Robert Killian turned me on to this amazing site. IndieGoGo provides an open social network for filmmakers to pitch their projects to the world. It also allows fans to influence and fuel the projects they want to see.

Filmmakers get resources to build and engage a loyal fan base to assist in making their projects happen. They can raise money and awareness, and gain credibility because of their fans.

Indie GoGo Check it out, might be something to consider doing!

Prescott Film Festival Series

2009-10-11T06:52:00.003-07:00

Open Call for Actors

2009-10-11T06:50:00.001-07:00

When: October 18, 2009 from 10:30 a.m. to 8:00p.m. by appointment only.
Where: Room 34 at 4215 Arts Village Drive Sedona, AZ 86336

Character Breakdown:
Lead Female - mid 20s to mid 30s
Lead Male - mid 30s to mid 40s
Supporting cast - 5 males of various ages from 25 to 50 years old
Extras - 20 individuals, equal mix of male and female, of various ages from 18 to 80 years old
Synopsis:
A succubus finds her victims nightly in a small desert town bar. She befriends the bartender, who ultimately falls under her spell and must face the consequences of his choice.

Call backs will begin on October 18 after the auditions, and will continue through October 19.
Rehearsals will begin on October 21 and will continue through October 23.
Production days will be held on October 23-29. Depending on roles actors may not need to be available for all days.

Please contact Jessica Noe at 201-310-6182 or at jessicanoe@gmail.com for questions and to schedule an appointment to audition.

Do you know any young filmmakers?

2009-10-07T13:37:00.001-07:00

Who, what and how.....

2009-09-28T10:07:00.002-07:00

Check out this no-nonsense approach to screenwriting from professional screenwriter and Zaki Gordon co-founder, Dan Gordon.

Dan Gordon about the three act screenplay

New ZGI Students Already in Production!

2009-09-21T10:11:00.006-07:00

ZGI's curriculum is designed to provide students with experience in all facets of digital filmmaking and production. The hands-on learning environment helps to foster creative confidence and artistic independence. In these photos, students gain familiarity with shooting on location.

Coyright Free Moby Music for Student Films!

2009-09-16T10:31:00.007-07:00

How cool is this? Musician Moby, known for his sonic recipes that range from ambient to hard rock and techno, has free cuts of music for student filmmakers and non-profit projects.

Camera Coverage Workshop-ZGI

2009-09-10T16:51:00.004-07:00

Director of Photography, Stephan Schultze, will demonstrate the aesthetics of lighting and camera setup for filmmaking. You will learn how to analyze story from a Director of Photography’s P.O.V., how to manage crew, the history of cinematography, the tools of lenses and cameras and how directors and cinematographers interface on a movie set.

September 19-20
9:00-4:00 both days
Register online at www.yc.edu
DFM 106 or call 928-649-4276 for more info.
or visit the ZGI website.

Spike Lee coming to Northern Arizona!

2009-09-08T10:23:00.003-07:00

American iconic filmmaker, Spike Lee, will be speaking at Northern Arizona University, January 27th, 2010.

Lee's acclaimed films such as "Do the Right Thing", "Malcolm X" and "Jungle Fever" have sparked controversy throughout his prolific career. The man behind the camera doesn't shy from confrontation as well, once remarking on ABC's Good Morning America that Mississippi Senator, Trent Lott was a card carrying member of the Ku Klux Klan.

Lee and his production company, 40 Acres & A Mule have produced over 35 films since 1983. He works as a writer, director, actor, producer, author and educator with fervor. Don't miss this opportunity to be inspired by the infamous Spike Lee.

More info. regarding tickets will be available soon at nau.edu/calevents.

What do “The Godfather, Gene Simmons and Sedona have in common?

2009-09-02T10:57:00.006-07:00

Zaki Gordon Institute co-founder, Dan Gordon, proved to be just as charismatic as the characters he creates on screen. ZGI students and the general public were captivated by Dan's forty plus years of writing experience and the candor with which he communicated his process. Workshop attendees seemed to appreciate his ability to demystify screenwriting, while stressing persistence and confidence. The audience was privy to some "tricks of the trade" while analyzing scenes from "The Godfather". It was an empowering weekend for all who attended.

Recently, Dan wrapped his film "The Christmas Story" which he directed and wrote about a pregnant teenager who runs away from her upscale life and ends up struggling in a trailer park in New Mexico. The film will be released around the holiday season and stars Elliott Gould, Linda Gray, Lainie Kazan, Cloris Leachman, Della Reese, Olesya Rulin, Cybill Shepherd, Gene Simmons and Fred Willard.
Thanks Dan!

To hear more from Dan Gordon and to understand the philosophy behind the Zaki Gordon Institute, watch this video!

Looking for Actors for Student Films!

2009-08-24T10:42:00.004-07:00

Please join us for an Actor’s Open House, September 11th, 5-8:30 pm at the Zaki Gordon Institute for Independent Filmmaking. We will be videotaping and add you into our actor’s database.

ZGI student’s are always looking for talent for their upcoming student thesis projects. This is a great opportunity for new and experienced actors to learn more about acting for film, exercise acting skills or contribute a breakthrough performance in an independent film!

In the first semester, students shoot scenes every Tuesday. In the second semester students produce their short film thesis projects, which screens at the ZGI Shorts Film Festival on Memorial Day weekend.

If you can’t make it to the open house, send headshot and resume via e-mail as a jpeg to: jeremy_hawkes@yc.edu

ZGI offers Dan Gordon's Master Screenwriting Workshop to the Public

2009-07-06T15:57:00.003-07:00

Zaki Gordon Institute co-founder, Dan Gordon , writer of The Hurricane, Wyatt Earp, Passenger 57 and many other screenplays, play adaptations and novels, will take you first hand through his writing process. From concept to polished script, this two-day workshop will cover what it takes to be a successful writer.