Bushwick Film Fest Press Releases
The 15th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Announces Award Winning Films
Winners include Chiqui, Unidentified Objects, The Smell of Money, and more!
FEATURED ON TIME OUT NEW YORK, WPIX, NY1, HYPERALLERGIC, GOTHAMIST, GREENPOINTERS, BROOKLYN MAGAZINE, AMNEWYORK AND MORE
BROOKLYN, NY, (November 15, 2022) – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) celebrated its 15th edition this year from November 1 - November 7, with over 100 independent films from Brooklyn and around the world. The festival included an Opening Night Red Carpet Reception presented by Spectrum on November 1st at Lot 45, live screenings hosted by Williamsburg Cinemas, a networking event at Circa Brewing Co., and an online component in the metaverse, presented by Lowkey Giant, where audiences experienced an exotic virtual world filled with whimsical avatars, NFT art shows and videos, events, and digital media content.
“This year was our first time back fully live and in person. This was also the first time many of our filmmakers had the opportunity to screen their films in front of a live audience since the pandemic. We had multiple sold-out screenings, all of our special events were sold out and our first live screenplay reading was a hit. We are definitely hitting our stride now post-2020,” says festival founder Kweighbaye Kotee.
The festival culminated with an award ceremony on Tuesday, November 7th where 18 films and filmmakers received awards. These award winners told bold stories, embodied the independent spirit, and featured extraordinary characters.
This year’s jurors – invited in recognition of their accomplishments and commitment to the industry – selected the award winners in addition to selecting a 2nd place and Programmers choice prizes.
Jurors for the festival included: New York Times Op-Docs Series Producer Yvonne Ashley Kouadjo, Oscar Nominated Korean Documentary producer Gary Gyongseok Kam, Actress Catherine Curtin (Stranger Things, OITNB, Insecure), Nickelodeon Production and Development Executive Niki Williams, Film and Television journalist Randy Jones, Development Executive and CoFounder of Hooligan Dreamers Sola Fasehun, co-founder and CEO of Alpha’a & alphaa.io Manuela Seve, and award-winning Actress and Director Elaine Del Valle.
Below is the complete list of award winners:
Best NFT Storyteller
Hive Mind
Best Screenplay
En Memoria
Web Series
Winner: Chiqui
Runner Up: MASHED
Programmers Choice: Last Bodega in Brooklyn
Short Documentary
Winner: A Place on the Edge of Breath
Runner Up: Belongings
Programmers Choice: Another Life to Live
Short Narrative
Winner: Little Trumpet
Runner Up: How Not to Date While Trans
Programmers Choice: Murder Tongue
Feature Documentary
Winner: The Smell of Money
Runner Up: Forget Me Not
Programmers Choice: The Sun Rises in the East
Feature Narrative
Winner: Unidentified Objects
Runner Up: Whispers of War
Programmers Choice: August at Twenty-Two
Audience Choice Award
Out of Breath
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
Over the last 15 years, BFF has screened the works of nearly 1000 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and over 50 different countries. The BFF has grown into one of the most anticipated cinematic events in Brooklyn and is recognized for its contribution to the borough’s artistic, cultural, and economic growth. Out of the over 100 films that will be included in this year’s programming, Approximately 18 filmmakers have received awards in categories such as Best Feature (Narrative/Doc), Best Short (Doc /Narrative), Best Web Series, and more, joining the ranks of incredible BFF alumni such as Marcus Reinaldo Greene, Dawn Porter, Adepero Oduye, Stefon Bristol, Shaka King, Alexander Dinelaris, Bradford Young, Katori Hall, Kitty Green and many more.
The 15th Annual Bushwick Film Festival would like to thank the following sponsors and partners:
Spectrum, Johnnie Walker, Williamsburg Cinemas, Broadway Stages, LVR, Circa Brewing Co., Lot 45, Lowkey Giant
Press Contact:
Stephanie Estrada | Big Picture Media
C: 562.685.6707 | Stephanie@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Samantha LaPare | Big Picture Media
C: 973.461.9345 | Sam@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
The 15th Annual Bushwick Film Festival To Take Place November 1st - November 7th
Beloved Film Festival Returns for 5 days of Live Screenings, Special Events, and Metaverse Experiences
FEATURING OVER 100 INDEPENDENT FILMS FROM BROOKLYN AND AROUND THE WORLD
BROOKLYN, NY, October 13, 2022 – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is excited to announce its return to all live screenings only. Beginning November 1st and going through November 7th, the festival will feature over 100 independent films from Brooklyn and around the world. Tickets to its 15th-anniversary edition are now available at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
“After having the experience of going fully virtual in 2020 and hybrid in 2021, we realized that we prefer to focus on live screenings which is what makes film festivals so special. It was great to find new ways to connect with audiences over the last two years, but connecting with filmmakers and our audiences in real life is really where our heart is” says festival founder Kweighbaye Kotee.
The festival is excited to form a new partnership with Williamsburg Cinemas where all festival films will screen. In addition to screenings, the festival will also host special events including its Opening Night Redcarpet Reception presented by Spectrum on November 1st at Lot 45.
The opening night reception will feature specialty cocktails by Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky, returning for another year as the official spirits sponsor of the BFF. As a fierce supporter of trailblazing women, Johnnie Walker looks forward to raising a toast to the festival for 15 years of empowering women & diverse filmmakers.
Other live festival events include an industry panel and networking event at Circa Brewing Co. in downtown Brooklyn, a screenplay reading selected from its best screenplay submissions, and a closing night awards ceremony. The BFF Metaverse experience, presented by Lowkey Giant also returns for the duration of the festival week. Audiences will be able to beam into the BFF Metaverse where they will find an exotic virtual world filled with whimsical avatars, NFT art shows and videos, events, and digital media content.
Over the last 15 years, BFF has screened the works of nearly 1000 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and over 50 different countries. The BFF has grown into one of the most anticipated cinematic events in Brooklyn and is recognized for its contribution to the borough’s artistic, cultural, and economic growth. Out of the over 100 films that will be included in this year’s programming, Approximately 10 filmmakers will walk away with awards in categories such as Best Feature (Narrative/Doc), Best Short (Doc /Narrative), Best Web Series, and more, joining the ranks of incredible BFF alumni such as Marcus Reinaldo Greene, Dawn Porter, Adepero Oduye, Stefon Bristol, Shaka King, Alexander Dinelaris, Bradford Young, Katori Hall, Kitty Green and many more.
Film programming highlights can be found below, as well as on our website, www.bushwickfilmfestival.com:
New Yawker’s Shorts Block
Yes with an accent and all! This block is a collection of films highlighting the stories of New Yorkers in all their glory, with the city as their backdrop. These films explore who New Yorkers are, what really matters to a New Yorker which includes community, environmental and social justice, love, culture, and so much more. As a New York Film Festival, these are films we are especially excited to see on the silver screen.
https://bit.ly/NewYawkershorts
Cuidando Al Sol I Sun & Daughter
In the Bolivian Titicaca Lake, ten-year-old Lucía faces a range of new, conflicting emotions when her father leaves for the capital La Paz. In that mythical place, while she waits for her dad to return, she builds her daily life around the expectations of her life after their reunion.
https://bit.ly/CuidandoAlSolfeature
Unidentified Objects
Peter is a misanthropic dwarf hiding from the world in his shabby New York City apartment. But an unexpected visit from his upbeat—and possibly unhinged—neighbor Winona forces him out of his shell and onto an impromptu road trip. Featuring a compelling performance from Roberta Colindrez, who most recently won us over as Lupe in Amazon Prime’s A League of Their Own.
https://bit.ly/UnidentifiedObjectsfeature
Whispers of War
The US Premiere of Whispers of War. When Khalil, a primary school teacher in Berlin, gets hold of war images from his Kurdish hometown of Cizre, he believes to recognize his long lost sister in the blurry material. His life starts slipping out of his hands when he tries to rescue her from the war zone and find media attention for the brutal footage. When the conflict reaches Khalil's class, he is forced to admit: It's not only about competing in the realm of news media, but also about protecting his own life in Berlin.
https://bit.ly/WhispersofWarfeature
Out of Breath
A normal day for out-of-work actor Jean-Michel turns upside down when a confrontation with a racist police officer leaves the cop dead and Jean-Michel on the run. Set at the height of the George Floyd protests against the surreal backdrop of the early pandemic, Out of Breath confronts the ambiguous relationship between individual responsibility and structural oppression today. This film is also a sly retelling of Jean-Luc Godard's 1960 New Wave Classic Breathless, a tribute we can appreciate in a new light after the recent passing of Godard, whose influence on cinema is enduring.
https://bit.ly/OutofBreathfeature
Killer Thrillers Shorts Block
Features a number of films that will get your blood pumping. The block includes two exceptionally captivating films that lie on either side of the genre’s spectrum, and represent the exciting complexities that can be found in genre film. A Highlight in this block is Wild Bitch, a quirky thriller about a local reporter’s interview with a mousy housewife about her life-changing encounter with a coyote. This leads to an eerie trek in the woods that leaves them forever bonded with each other... and the beast. The short is co-directed by British pop sensation and actress Kate Nash and her co-star from GLOW Rebekka Johnson. Conversely, Sam Max’s dark thriller Chaperone, a short about a chilling request made by a young boy to a middle aged man, starring Zachary Quinto, comes at an exciting time, coinciding with Quinto’s return to American Horror Story.
https://bit.ly/KillerThrillersshorts
Arthouse Cinema Shorts Block
a collection of short films that explore the artistic possibilities of the cinematic medium features a number exciting, colorful, energetic, genre defying works. Some standouts include: Hot Toddy, an animated comedy that centers on the messy world of true crime, murder, intrigue and the equally messy world of female friendship. Hot Toddy is accompanied by the music of L.A based punk band Slutever who ushered in a new era of riot grrrl sound with their 2016 album Almost Famous. Earth To Zippy! - An irreverent ode to the silent films of yesteryear, a martian lands on Earth to fulfill his lifelong dream of becoming an actor in Hollywood, but finding success is more difficult than he imagined. Director Mickey Bloom has offered us a tribute to the screwball comedies popularized by the likes of Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin modernized. This is a short by someone who loves movies for people who love movies.
Crossing Borders Shorts Block
A collection of short films that explore immigration themes, cross-cultural identities and the emotional, physical, and metaphorical experiences. Featuring stories of immigrants, adoption, multicultural families and communities, Crossing Borders considers the complex state of identity today. Some highlights include: Amandi Comes Home about two female childhood friends who announce their adoption of an Ethiopian boy over a celebratory dinner. The evening takes a heated turn as guests debate raising a black boy by white women in present-day America; Chiqui about a married couple who immigrate from Colombia to New Jersey to find a better life for themselves and their unborn son. Upon their arrival, they quickly realize that the American Dream is not as easy to achieve as they thought; and Tejano Night about an awkward Mexican-American, who is forced to tag along with his cousin to a local bar after butchering his Spanish pronunciation at dinner.
https://bit.ly/CrossingBoardersshorts
Modern Love Shorts Blocks
Back to back short film screenings focusing on the complicated life and experiences of people who are brave enough to pursue love. In this block you’ll find stories about intimate nights gone bizarrely wrong, online sex and solo karaoke, lonely agoraphobics searching for love, dating app fiascos, uncomfortable interational couple conversations and everything in between. If you pay attention, you’ll witness a charming performance from The Deuce’s Jamie Neuman.
https://bit.ly/ModernLoveshorts1
https://bit.ly/ModernLoveshorts2
You Won’t Break My Soul
Need we say more? This shorts block features a collection of films that spotlights the hope and perseverance of the soul of black, queer, and trans folks. Here you’ll witness stories of healing, finding joy, and turning lemons into lemonade. Highlights include The House of LaBeija, a short documentary film featuring members of the prominent ballroom family. The film features original music compositions by Manhattanite, Khalif Diouf. Other block highlights include When We Arrive As Flowers about a dancer who realizes her trans femme identity through a choreographic journey. This block also includes Savitree, the directorial debut of transfemme model, activist, and artist Richie Shazam. With Julia Fox cameos!
https://bit.ly/YouWontBreakMySoulshorts
Bushwick Film Festival would like to thank the following sponsors and partners: Spectrum, Johnnie Walker, Chemistry Creative, Broadway Stages, Circa Brewing Co., Heard City, Liman Video Rental, Lot 45 and Williamsburg Cinemas.
Tickets and Passes to the 15th Annual Bushwick Film Festival are now available at www.bushwickfilmfestival.com
For press and industry accreditation, please visit:
https://www.bushwickfilmfestival.com/industry-accreditation
About Johnnie Walker
Johnnie Walker is the world's number one Scotch Whisky brand, enjoyed by people in over 180 countries around the world. Since the time of its founder, John Walker, those who blend its whiskies have pursued flavor and quality above else.
Six generations of skilled Master Blenders have pioneered and crafted bold new flavors that have transformed a small Scottish grocery store business, founded in 1820, into an international whisky business selling stylish, authentic, and iconic blends.
Today's range of award-winning whiskies includes Johnnie Walker Red Label, Black Label, Double Black, Green Label, Johnnie Walker High Rye Blended Scotch Whisky, Gold Label Reserve, Aged 18 Years, and Blue Label. Together they account for nearly 19 million cases sold annually (IWSR, 2019), making Johnnie Walker the most popular Scotch Whisky brand in the world.
Press Contact:
Stephanie Estrada | Big Picture Media
C: 562.685.6707 | Stephanie@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
Samantha LaPare | Big Picture Media
C: 973.461.9345 | Sam@BigPictureMediaOnline.com
14TH ANNUAL BUSHWICK FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNING FILMS
Honors Go To Homebody, Bangla Surf Girls, and Many Other Outstanding Films
Brooklyn, NY (October 27, 2021) – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) culminated an exciting 14th year with five days of screenings and events from October 20-24, 2021 in various “dimensions” including real life, online and in the metaverse as the first film festival to present a Non-fungible token (NFT) showcase. The festival screened over 125 of the best emerging independent films from NYC and 27 countries around the world. 13 films and filmmakers received awards for their unique, fun, provocative, and socially conscious stories. Erica Eng, director of “Americanized," received the Rising Star Award which was created to acknowledge BFF alumni who have gone on to achieve notable levels of success.
This year’s jurors, invited in recognition of their accomplishments and commitment to the industry, selected the award winners in addition to selecting their own Honorable Mention prize. Jurors for the Festival included: FilmRise Manager of New Releases and Festivals Garineh Nazarian, DGA Special Projects Committee Director of Episodic TV Rachel Raimist, Bleecker Street Media Acquisitions Manager Miranda King, Cinema Guild President Peter Kelly, Documentarian and Film Professor Paloma Martinez, Deputy Editor at Variety Pat Saperstein, Nickelodeon Production and Development Senior Manager Niki Williams, Film Critic and Comedian Jourdain Searles, GLAAD Creative Director Abdool Corlette, Producer and Director Caitlin Mae Burke, Professor at University of Bradford Film and Television Department Dr. Karen Thornton, Director and Film Professor Vincent Singleton, Paper Street Media Producer Harris Gurny, 35 Ventures Head of Scripted/Unscripted Amani Martin, and Adult Swim Manager of Development Live Action/Animation Jordan Askins.
Below is the complete list of award winners:
Rising Star Award - Erica Eng - director of Americanized
Best Feature Narrative Film - Homebody directed by Joseph Sackett
Honorable Mention - Everything in The End directed by Mylissa Fitzsimmons
Best Feature Documentary Film - Bangla Surf Girls directed by Elizabeth D. Costa
Honorable Mention- The Last Out directed by Sami Khan and Michael Gassert
Best Short Narrative Film - Nuevo Rico directed by Kristian Mercado
Honorable Mention - Appa Appa Appa directed by Anna Sang Park
Honorable Mention - Monkey Bars directed by Jacqueline Xerri
Best Short Documentary Film - Unemployment Hotline directed by Nikos Campbell
Honorable Mention - Art21: John Akomfrah directed by Ian Forster
Honorable Mention - The Things I Tell You directed by Daniela Silva Solórzano
Best Series - Hit The Ground Running directed by Ben Bouvier-Farrell
Honorable Mention - Occupied directed by Pranav Pringle Reddy
Bushwick Film Festival kicked off with their highly anticipated Opening Night Reception at Lot45. The night was presented by Spectrum with beverages by Johnnie Walker Black. Audiences this year were able to beam into the Metaverse and enter an exotic virtual world filled with whimsical avatars and nearly endless NFT and digital media content. BFF also featured a full day of live screenings on Saturday October 23, 2021 through a partnership with Regal Cinema as well as hosted their Movie Industry Conference featuring conversations with leading voices in the film industry on October 24, 2021.
The 14th Annual Bushwick Film Festival would like to thank the following sponsors and partners: Spectrum, Regal Cinemas, New York City Artists Corps, Broadway Stages, Circa Brewing Co., Heard City, Liman Video Rental, Lot 45, Schneps Media, Lowkey Giant, and Yes Universe.
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
The Bushwick Film Festival is a M/WBE certified independent film festival based in Brooklyn, showcasing the best-emerging films from NYC and around the world and featuring conversations with leading voices in the film industry. Over the last 14 years, we have been recognized by our community, top press outlets, local elected officials, and just recently Lucy Liu for doing groundbreaking work in film and entertainment! Our annual festival attracts over 3500 attendees, as well as more than 1500 film submissions from 60 countries around the world, contributing to the Borough's cultural and economic growth. We are committed to community building, empowering underrepresented storytellers, and increasing diversity in film and other forms of media through year-round programming. Our programming includes free public screenings and events, hands-on film production workshops, and career training for young adults so that they have the tools to enter a successful career in the media industry. For more information visit watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com. Follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Media Contact: Fox Greenberg Public Relations bushwickfilmfestival@foxgreenberg.com
14th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Offers Free Live Screening and Short Film Blocks With Funny, Haunted, and Socially Conscious Themes Saturday 10/23 at Regal Cinemas Brooklyn
Themes Include ‘Campy Comedies’, ‘Let’s Talk About Sex Work’, ‘Art as Resilience’, and more
Brooklyn, NY (October 18, 2021) - The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF), one of Brooklyn’s most exciting cultural attractions, is excited to announce a full day of live screenings on Saturday October 23, 2021 through a partnership with Regal Cinemas. In addition, through the gratuitous support from City Artist Corps the screening of the feature film Rehab Cabin is free for everyone!
The festival has curated a mix of feature and short film blocks with fun, provocative, and socially conscious themes. The “Let's Talk about Sex Work” short film block features Vincen't Martell's Finesse and other films that highlight sex workers and discuss laws surrounding sexwork. “Art as Resistance'' showcases unique and resilient short documentaries, including “Art21: John Akomfrah'', that explore the inspiring ways in which change-makers have overcome societal and personal traumas through art. “Family Lies” features Richard Kind and Jessica Hecht, and “Defining Stages” features Hiam Abbass and Lynn Cohenwill. The free public screening supported by City Artist Corps is the feature film Rehab Cabin, a comedy directed by Kate Beacom & Louis Legge about two best friends who kidnap a washed-up celebrity in the hopes of rejuvenating her career. The nightcap of the evening, BFF’s last screening is “Campy Comedies” with dark, witty, awkward, and maybe a little sexy, stories that explore both the haunted and charming parts of everyday life.
“Having Regal as a partner gave BFF the opportunity to bring the best part of the festival back to life. The shared experience of watching films together is one of the most exciting parts of a festival.” says festival founder Kweighbaye Kotee. While Bushwick Film Festival isn’t able to screen all of the selected films live this year, the hybrid model of in-person and virtual events offers audiences different viewing possibilities to suit their needs. BFF is planning for a full return to live screenings next year.
In addition to screenings, the festival will also be hosting special events including its Opening Night Reception at Lot 45 in Bushwick on October 20th, a full day of industry networking at Circa Brewing Co. in downtown Brooklyn on October 23rd, and a virtual Movie Industry Conference on October 24th. Conference panelists include Emmy nominated Producer of HBO’s The Tale Mynette Louie, Showrunner of Netflix’s You Sera Gamble, SVP of Development and Production of Endeavor Cristina Garza, Editor of HBO’s Scenes from a Marriage Yael Hersonski, Rahul Roy from Magnolia’s Theatrical Distribution, Director of MPAC’s Hollywood Bureau Sue Obeidi, Cobra Kai’s Rose Bianco, NALIP’s Executive Director Ben Lopez, Founder of Fourth Agreement Entertainment Dana Kuznetzkoff, Founder of The Future of Film is Female Caryn Coleman, AICP’s Tabitha Mason-Elliott, ReFrame’s Director Andria Wilson Mirza, and more.
This year’s festival will include over 125 independent films from 27 different countries. Live screenings will be held at Regal Cinemas 106 Court Street location in downtown Brooklyn. In addition, audiences can watch all films and view the festival’s program at watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
About The Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a M/WBE certified independent film festival based in Brooklyn, showcasing the best-emerging films from NYC and around the world and featuring conversations with leading voices in the film industry. Over the last 14 years, we have been recognized by our community, top press outlets, local elected officials, and just recently Lucy Liu for doing groundbreaking work in film and entertainment!
Our annual festival attracts over 3500 attendees, as well as more than 1500 film submissions from 60 countries around the world, contributing to the Borough's cultural and economic growth. We are committed to community building, empowering underrepresented storytellers, and increasing diversity in film and other forms of media through year-round programming. Our programming includes free public screenings and events, hands-on film production workshops, and career training for young adults so that they have the tools to enter a successful career in the media industry.
For more information visit watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com. Follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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Contact: Fox Greenberg Public Relations, bushwickfilmfestival@foxgreenberg.com
14TH ANNUAL BUSHWICK FILM FESTIVAL PRESENTS HYBRID RENDITION RETURNING TO LIVE SCREENINGS AND SPECIAL EVENTS ALONGSIDE VIRTUAL STREAMING OCTOBER 20-24, 2021
Inspiring And Thought-Provoking Multicultural, Diverse And NYC-Based Stories; Participants and Panelists Include Creator Mynette Louie, Yael Hersonski, Caryn Coleman, Dana Kuznetzkoff And More
Brooklyn, NY (September 28, 2021) - The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF), one of Brooklyn’s most exciting cultural attractions, is presenting a hybrid rendition for their 14th year with live film screenings, virtual streaming worldwide, special events and panels taking place October 20-24, 2021. Proudly shining a spotlight on diverse filmmakers, this year’s festival will include over 135 independent films from 27 different countries. The latest addition to the festival is the acceptance of screenplays as well as Non-Fungible Token (NFT) videos.
A full day of in-person screenings will take place on October 23 through a partnership with Regal Cinemas in downtown Brooklyn. The festival will also be hosting special events including its Opening Night Reception at Lot 45 in Bushwick on October 20, a full day of industry networking at Circa Brewing Co. in downtown Brooklyn on October 23, and a Movie Industry Conference online on October 24 with panelists including Emmy nominated Producer Mynette Louie, Editor of HBO’s Scenes from a Marriage Yael Hersonski, Rahul Roy from Magnolia’s Theatrical Distribution, Founder of Fourth Agreement Entertainment Dana Kuznetzkoff, Founder of The Future of Film is Female Caryn Coleman and more. The festival will continue streaming all films on its platform watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com with daily filmmaker Q&A’s, and its awards ceremony will be available to watch on Facebook Live.
“Every year our program is dynamic, but what makes this year so special is the renewed enthusiasm and appreciation for personal interactions,” says Founder and CEO Kweighbaye Kotee. “This makes the ability to experience the arts together again so much more exciting. Our hybrid model still has its limitations, but gives us hope for the future. The stories we share always offer us the ability to see ourselves in ways we hadn’t imagined before, and we look forward to the incredible lineup this year.”
Approximately ten filmmakers will walk away with awards in categories such as Best Feature (Narrative & Documentary), Best Short (Narrative & Documentary), and Best Series, joining the ranks of incredible BFF alumni such as Marcus Reinaldo Greene, Dawn Porter, Adepero Oduye, Stefon Bristol, Shaka King, Alexander Dinelaris, Bradford Young, Katori Hall, Kitty Green and many more. The 14th Bushwick Film Festival highlights include:
Women is Losers - In 1960s San Francisco, a once-promising catholic school girl, Celina Guerrera, sets out to rise above the oppression of poverty and invest in a future for herself that sets new precedents for the time. Starring Lorenza Izzo (in a star making turn), Simu Liu (star of the upcoming Marvel movie Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) and Liza Weil (Gilmore Girls, How To Get Away With Murder).
Hudson Falls - The secrets of a small upstate town that revolve around an eccentric scientist (William Sadler) begin to unravel when a private eye from the city (Richard Kind) takes on a seemingly mundane job in an effort to rekindle a relationship with his ex-wife (Jessica Hecht).
Emma Without Edmond - Emma (Lynn Cohen) is an embittered, solitary widow. When she discovers old polaroids of her husband at a younger age in bed with another woman, she interrogates his urn and, in a fit of rage, knocks it off the mantle. She vacuums up the ashes and then uses the vacuum cleaner as a proxy for her husband as she embarks on a mission to conjure his spirit so they can have one last fight.
Rehab Cabin - Best friends Chloe and Domenic are quickly growing apart. At Chloe’s insistence, for their last hurrah, they kidnap their favorite celebrity, washed-up former child star Amanda Campbell. Driving a stolen limo, they take Amanda to a secluded cabin where they improvise a rehabilitation program designed to rejuvenate her career.
Cracked - It's the end of the summer of 1985 in Queens, New York City. Toya, a feisty young girl, falls in love for the first time. After a series of disturbing events, Toya's affection for Poochy compels her to face her traumatic past.
Bangla Surf Girls - Shobe, Aisha and Suma break away from the drudgery of their lives by joining a surf club in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh. The girls fight family pressure and social judgement for a few hours on the waves each day and gain confidence as their natural skill and prowess gains attention and praise. The joy and freedom of the waves are a stark change from the abuse and hardship they face at home. Soon they are poised to make history as Bangladesh’s first women surfers. However, the fate of the club itself hangs on the leadership of the coach who has his own challenges. The odds are stacked against them but the girls refuse to give up. Balancing the freedom of the waves with the restrictive realities of their circumstances, we experience the thrill and struggle of coming-of-age in a developing country.
Have a Nice Life - After hitting dead ends in life, Jyothi, an Indian housewife, and Sophie, a stoner musician, find themselves on the run from the law, together on a wild, surreal American road trip from Durham, North Carolina to Montreal, Canada.
The Knot (Uljhan) - Shirish and Geeta, an upper middle class couple in Lucknow, run over a rickshaw driver with their car and get caught up with dramatically opposing reactions to the tragedy. Shirish attempts to move on, harnessing the invisible protections afforded to him by class structure, and hiding behind the visible walls and locked gates of his home. In parallel, Geeta’s guilt drives her to surreptitiously employ Manoj, the victim’s younger brother, intertwining two lives otherwise separated by class and power. The small collision quickly turns into a dramatic suspense, spurred by greed, betrayal, guilt, and the nocuous effects of grave inequality threaten to unwind the very fabric of each of their lives.
The Last Out - Three young Cuban baseball players leave their families and risk exile to train in Central America and chase their dreams of playing in the Major Leagues. Filmed over more than four years, The Last Out tells the very human story of people caught between countries who want nothing more than to make a better life for their families.
Boy From The Blaze - Aleixo Paz A.K.A “Boy from the Blaze” is the survivor of a tragic accident that destroyed his life and that of his family. About to turn 18, without a job or an education, he spends his days in the darkness of his room. Consumed by pain and anger, his only hope is writing songs for an imaginary crowd. Inspired by a friend and encouraged by his mother, he will find the strength to go on stage and overcome his fears.
FINESSE - An unexpected psychedelic bonding experience leads three roommates to question their flailing intimate relationships and risk it all. We follow Martell (Vincent Martell), Kizer (Shea Couleé), and Daryn (Jeez Loueez), as they struggle to survive capitalism and find intimacy in Chicago. Daryn explores her sexual fantasies and gets heavy-handed with a submissive. Kizer lip-syncs for a drag competition show. Martell thinks he hit the jackpot with a new client.
Americanized - Growing up in Oakland’s hip-hop culture, Eng struggles with her Chinese American identity. To her high school basketball team, she’s just that girl who sits on the bench; but to the Asian kids she’s "Americanized." As her sophomore year of high school comes to an end, Eng tries to find a sense of belonging within the two worlds that don't accept her.
Tickets to the 14th Annual Bushwick Film Festival are now available at watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com
Bushwick Film Festival would like to thank the following sponsors and partners: Spectrum, Regal Cinemas, New York City Artists Corps, Broadway Stages, Circa Brewing Co., Heard City, Liman Video Rental, Lot 45 and Schenps Media.
About The Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival is a M/WBE certified independent film festival based in Brooklyn, showcasing the best-emerging films from NYC and around the world and featuring conversations with leading voices in the film industry. Over the last 14 years, we have been recognized by our community, top press outlets, local elected officials, and just recently Lucy Liu for doing groundbreaking work in film and entertainment!
Our annual festival attracts over 3500 attendees, as well as more than 1500 film submissions from 60 countries around the world, contributing to the Borough's cultural and economic growth. We are committed to community building, empowering underrepresented storytellers, and increasing diversity in film and other forms of media through year-round programming. Our programming includes free public screenings and events, hands-on film production workshops, and career training for young adults so that they have the tools to enter a successful career in the media industry.
For more information visit watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com. Follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
###
Contact: Fox Greenberg Public Relations, bushwickfilmfestival@foxgreenberg.com
13TH ANNUAL BUSHWICK FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNING FILMS
13TH ANNUAL BUSHWICK FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES AWARD WINNING FILMS
Top Awards Go To Milkwater, Dark City: Beneath the Beat, Sixteen Thousand Dollars, Finding Elijah, DisLabeled
Brooklyn, NY – October 29, 2020 – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) celebrated its 13th edition virtually this year from October 21 - 25 with nearly 100 independent films, panels, special events, and a weekend movie industry conference! The festival culminated with a virtual awards ceremony where 21 films and filmmakers received awards. The award winning films are available to watch until Friday 10/30 at watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com. The award winners told bold stories, embodied the independent spirit and featured extraordinary characters who reminded us of our own inherent courage and perseverance in the face of change and adversity.
This year’s jurors, invited in recognition of their accomplishments and commitment to the industry, did the hard job of choosing award winners in addition to selecting their own Special Jury Prize. Jurors for the Festival included: Tamara P. Carter, writer, HBO’s The Leftovers, Starz’ P-Valley; Julie Christeas, producer, Tandem; Amanda Trokan, director, content acquisition (HBO + HBO Max), WarnerMedia; Ximena Amescua, artist program coordinator, Firelight Media; Florentina Almonte, content acquisitions executive, Shorts TV International; Jason Sondhi, co-founder & editor-in-chief, Short of the Week; Marie-Lou Nahhas, actress, Orange is the New Black; Opal H. Bennett, film programmer, DOC NYC; Shakira Barrera, actress, Glow; Elise McCave, senior director of film, Kickstarter; Jordan Mattos, founder, Aspect Ratio; Denae Peters, program officer, Perspective Fund; David Ninh, Director of Press and Publicity, Kino Lorber.
In addition to film awards, BFF presented its Best Actor / Outstanding Performance Award to actor Alejandro Santoni for his role as “Al B.” in the film Alberto and the Concrete Jungle. Finally, the 4th ever Rising Star Award—created to acknowledge a BFF alumni who is achieving notable levels of success—went to Katori Hall (creator, Starz’ P-Valley). The award is a testament to the recipient’s hard work and to the festival's continued commitment to giving emerging filmmakers and creators a platform. The best film award winners will receive up to $2000 in rental credit from festival sponsors Liman Video Rental (LVR).
The award winning films are available to watch until Friday 10/30 at watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
Below is the complete list of award winners for the 13th Annual Bushwick Film Festival that can also be viewed here:
BEST NARRATIVE FEATURE: Milkwater | Morgan Ingari
BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE: Dark City: Beneath the Beat | TT The Artist
BEST NARRATIVE SHORT: Sixteen Thousand Dollars | Symone Baptiste
BEST DOCUMENTARY SHORT: Finding Elijah | Yolonda Johnson-Young
BEST WEB SERIES / NEW MEDIA: DisLabeled | Adam Yaffe, Brian McCarthy, Arnold Barkus
SPECIAL JURY PRIZE: Narrative Feature: 写真の女 Woman of the Photographs | Takeshi Kushida
SPECIAL JURY PRIZE: Documentary Feature: Lovemobil | Elke Margarete Lehrenkrauss
SPECIAL JURY PRIZE: Narrative Short: Lugar Algum (No Place) | Gabriel Amaral
SPECIAL JURY PRIZE: Documentary Short: Say You Will | Mariel Sosa
SPECIAL JURY PRIZE: Web Series / New Media: Frederick Douglass Boulevard aka Food & Drink Boulevard aka F.D.B | Washington Kirk
HONORABLE MENTION: Narrative Feature: Asimetrija (Asymmetry) | Maša Nešković
HONORABLE MENTION: Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back | John Carluccio
HONORABLE MENTION: Narrative Short: His-Story | Anthony Colon
PROGRAMMER’S CHOICE: Narrative Feature: Teddy Out of Tune | Daniel Freeman
PROGRAMMER’S CHOICE: Documentary Feature: Les Chiens-Loups (Wolfdogs) | Dominic Leclerc
PROGRAMMER’S CHOICE: Narrative Short: Hoss | Ryan McGlade
PROGRAMMER’S CHOICE: Documentary Short: Yai Nin | Champ Ensminger
PROGRAMMER’S CHOICE: Web Series / New Media: Sideways Smile | Hang Nguyen
PROGRAMMER’S CHOICE: Animated Short: Blackheads | Emily Ann Hoffman
BEST ACTOR / OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCE: Alejandro Santoni, Alberto and the Concrete Jungle
RISING STAR AWARD: Katori Hall
The 13th Annual Bushwick Film Festival would like to thank the following sponsors and partners:
Spectrum, Chemistry Creative, Liman Video Rental, Brooklyn Free Speech, Circa Brewing Co.,
Syndicated, The Rookery, House of Yes, Lot 45, 718 Studios, BK Reader
About the Bushwick Film Festival:
The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is a MWBE certified independent film, media, and event production company in Brooklyn, NY. The annual festival attracts over 3,500 attendees, as well as more than 1,500 film submissions from 60 countries around the world, contributing to the borough's cultural and economic growth. The festival is committed to community building, empowering underrepresented storytellers, and increasing diversity in film and other forms of media through year-round programming. Our year round program includes free public screenings and events, hands-on film production workshops, and career training for young adults.
THE 13TH ANNUAL BFF– Film Highlights
The 13th Annual
Bushwick Film Festival
Kicking Off Tomorrow October 21
Highlighting Social/Political, LGBTQ and BIPOC Films & NYC-Based Stories
Film Bundles Available Here:
https://bit.ly/34jOZSN
Opening Night Show Taking Place Tomorrow at 8 PM ET Here: https://bit.ly/32XE7cm
New York, NY – October 20, 2020 – The 13th Annual Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) kicks off tomorrow, October 21, and will feature an array of social/political, LGBTQ and BIPOC Films, as well as NYC-based stories. Some highlights include A Diary From The Frontline, a documentary series that captures the lives of doctors and nurses at home and at work during the COVID-19 pandemic; This Land, Our Voices, an anthology film composed of five shorts telling the story of one American and their relationship to their land and their legacy; EAT THE RAINBOW, a musical fable about an odd yet kind man named Bayani who moves into a conservative suburban neighborhood and disrupts the otherwise comfortable homogeny; His-Story, a short film sharing stories of the day to day deplorable conditions that New York City Housing Authority residents endure; A Syrian Woman, a documentary following eight Syrian refugee women and their experiences of survival – from displacement, child-marriage, and trauma, to their resilience and hope to rebuild a better future for their children; and more. Films are available to watch here: watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com, a secure streaming platform sponsored by Spectrum. Film bundles are also available to purchase here: https://bit.ly/34jOZSN.
Due to Covid-19 event restrictions, the Bushwick Film Festival is going virtual this year from October 21-25 and will include over 100 independent films from 30 different countries. The festival kicks off tomorrow at 8 PM ET with an Opening Night Show available to stream here: https://bit.ly/32XE7cm. Hosted by Aaron Watkins, the show will feature special messages from local celebrities and elected officials including Senator Chuck Schumer, Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Assemblywoman Maritza Davila, Council Member Antonio Reynoso, MOME Commissioner Anne del Castillo, President and CEO Designate of Empire State Development Eric Gertler and more. There will also be a musical performance from Brooklyn recording artist Adeline, as well as a festival welcome from the festival organizers. A filmmaker Q&A will follow at 9PM ET here: https://bit.ly/3jaXVPn.
In addition to the films and awards ceremony, the festival features industry mixers, a trivia night and a weekend movie industry conference featuring Emmy Winner Andrij Parekh (Succession), Reinaldo Marcus Green (Director of Warner Bros., King Richard starring Will Smith), Katori Hall (Starz, P-Valley) and Cory Finley (HBO's Bad Eduction), as well as industry professionals from Hulu, Amazon, and Lionsgate to name a few.
This year with a theme of transformation and a glowing butterfly used as a visual representation, the festival celebrates not only filmmakers for always reminding us of our inherent courage and perseverance through their characters, but also how much we continue to transform as a better global community.
Bushwick Film Festival prides itself on being a home for film lovers. Over the last decade, BFF has screened the works of nearly 1500 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and over 50 different countries, proudly shining a spotlight on womxn and diverse filmmakers. The BFF has grown into one of the most anticipated events in Brooklyn and is recognized for its contribution to the borough’s artistic, cultural, and economic growth.
“After 13 years, I still get so excited when the festival arrives. Working with my team to present the festival this year despite all the challenges, is a testament to our collective love and commitment to storytelling.” says Festival director Kweighbaye Kotee. We have an incredible lineup of films and great conversations in store!”
For tickets and passes, please visit: watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com
We are now accepting Press and Accreditation Applications for Bushwick Film Festival. Press interested in receiving credentials should fill out this form and will receive a response closer to the event: https://goo.gl/AfcjMp
Industry Professional Accreditation: https://goo.gl/To4Vza
Follow Bushwick Film Festival
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BushwickFilmFestival
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BushwickFilm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bushwickfilmfest
About the Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is an MWBE certified independent film, media, and event production company in Brooklyn, NY. Its annual festival attracts over 3500 attendees, as well as more than 1500 film submissions from 60 countries around the world, contributing to the Borough's cultural and economic growth. The festival is committed to community building, empowering underrepresented storytellers, and increasing diversity in film and other forms of media through year-round programming. Its programming includes free public screenings and events, hands-on film production workshops, and career training for young adults so that they have the tools to enter a successful career in the media industry.
Press Contact:
Hayley Brinkman | Big Picture Media
195 Broadway, Suite 341. Brooklyn NY 11211
Hayley@bigpicturemediaonline.com | o: 212.675.3103 c: 845.321.5788
BFF Movie Industry Conference
Bushwick Film Festival Reveals Details for Virtual Movie Industry Conference
Taking Place October 24 & 25 2020
11:00 AM-3:00 PM Eastern Time
Participants to include:
Katori Hall (Starz’s P-Valley)
Reinaldo Marcus (Warner Bros. King Richard)
Kitty Green (Hulu’s The Assistant)
Deniese Davis (HBO’s Insecure & A Black Lady Sketch Show)
Elissa Dauria Smith (Lionsgate, Starz)
Andrij Parekh (Succession)
Bhavna Tripuraneni (Hulu)
New York, NY – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) has revealed details for their Virtual Movie Industry Conference, taking place on October 24 & 25 from 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM Eastern Time. The conference will include relevant media conversations and masterclasses with talented filmmakers and leading film industry professionals such as Katori Hall (Starz’s P-Valley), Reinaldo Marcus (Warner Bros. King Richard), Kitty Green (Hulu’s The Assistant), Deniese Davis (HBO’s Insecure & A Black Lady Sketch Show) and others. Their live curated panels will address important topics and answer questions in areas such as ‘The Streaming Revolution,’ ‘How to Get An Agent,’ ‘From Book to Screen’ and more. See below for a full program breakdown. Passes can be purchased here: https://bit.ly/2GQelhq. For more information, please visit watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com.
Due to Covid-19 event restrictions, the Bushwick Film Festival is going virtual this year from October 21-25 and will include over 100 independent films from 30 different countries. Movies can be viewed at watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com, a secure streaming platform sponsored by Spectrum.
In addition to films and the weekend movie industry conference, the festival features screenplay readings, industry mixers, movie trivia nights and a series of filmmaker Q&As. The most anticipated events, opening night and awards ceremony, will be presented in partnership with Chemistry Creative, Liman Video Rental and BRIC. The show will feature special messages from local celebrities and elected officials including Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Assemblywoman Maritza Davila, Council Member Antonio Reynoso, MOME Commissioner Anne del Castillo, and President and CEO Designate of Empire State Development Eric Gertler. The opening night show and the awards ceremony will be free to watch and broadcasted on Facebook Live and other streaming platforms.
This year with a theme of transformation and a glowing butterfly used as a visual representation, the festival celebrates not only filmmakers for always reminding us of our inherent courage and perseverance through their characters, but also how much we continue to transform as a better global community.
Bushwick Film Festival prides itself on being a home for film lovers. Over the last decade, BFF has screened the works of nearly 1500 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and over 50 different countries, proudly shining a spotlight on womxn and diverse filmmakers. The BFF has grown into one of the most anticipated events in Brooklyn and is recognized for its contribution to the borough’s artistic, cultural, and economic growth.
“After 13 years, I still get so excited when the festival arrives. Working with my team to present the festival this year despite all the challenges, is a testament to our collective love and commitment to storytelling.” says Festival director Kweighbaye Kotee. We have an incredible lineup of films and great conversations in store!”
For tickets and passes, please visit: watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com
13th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Movie Industry Conference
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24: 11 AM to 3 PM EST
Workshop
Social Media for Storytellers
Speaker:
Dana Lerner (Social Media Consultant/ Red Pelican Creative)
Panel
Blaxploitation: Conversation with Founders of Museum of Uncut Funk
Moderator: coming soon
Speakers:
Loreen Williamson (Co-Founder, Museum of Uncut Funk)
Pamela Thomas (Co-Founder, Museum of Uncut Funk)
Panel
A Deep Dive into the Process of Book to Screen
Moderator: coming soon
Speakers:
Elissa Dauria Smith (Manager of Literary Affairs, Lionsgate/Starz)
Hardy Justice (EVP, Illuminated Content)
Panel
How to get an Agent?
Moderator: Kevyn Fairchild
Speakers:
ChiChi Anyanwu (Founder, CHI Talent Management)
Tiauna Jackson (Founder, Jackson Agency)
Panel
The Streaming Revolution Continues
Moderator: David Bloom
Speakers:
Bhavna Tripuraneni (Content Acquisition Manager, Hulu)
Stacy Chavis (Prime Video U.S.)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 25: 11 AM to 3:30 PM EST
Panel
Meet The Producers
Moderator: coming soon
Speakers:
Deniese Davis (COO of ColorCreative/Producer, Insecure)
Kay Rothman (PGA Chair Emeriti/Producer)
Panel
A Fireside Chat with Illustrative Storytellers
Speakers:
Rah Crawford
R. Xavier Smith
Workshop
Masterclass on Foley: Sound from Scratch
Speaker:
Matt Davies (Sound Designer/Foley Artist, Rat Film, Paddleton, The Wind)
Panel
Conversation with the Creators on HBO
Moderator: Elaine del Valle
Speakers:
Alberto Ferreras (Creator, HBO Latino’s Habla Now)
Andrij Parekh (Emmy Winning Director, Succession)
Panel
Conversation with BFF Alumni
Moderator: Kweighbaye Kotee
Speakers:
Katori Hall (Creator, Starz P-VALLEY)
Reinaldo Marcus Green (Director, Warner Bros. King Richard)
Kitty Green (Director, Hulu’s The Assistant)
Panel
Conversation with the Creators of HBO's Bad Education
Moderator: Donaldo Prescod
Cory Finley (Director, HBO’s Bad Education)
Mike Makowsky (Writer, HBO’s Bad Education)
Passes available here: https://bit.ly/2GQelhq
We are now accepting Press and Accreditation Applications for Bushwick Film Festival. Press interested in receiving credentials should fill out this form and will receive a response closer to the event: https://goo.gl/AfcjMp
Industry Professional Accreditation: https://goo.gl/To4Vza
Follow Bushwick Film Festival
Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/BushwickFilmFestival
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BushwickFilm
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bushwickfilmfest
About the Bushwick Film Festival
The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is an MWBE certified independent film, media, and event production company in Brooklyn, NY. Its annual festival attracts over 3500 attendees, as well as more than 1500 film submissions from 60 countries around the world, contributing to the Borough's cultural and economic growth. The festival is committed to community building, empowering underrepresented storytellers, and increasing diversity in film and other forms of media through year-round programming. Its programming includes free public screenings and events, hands-on film production workshops, and career training for young adults so that they have the tools to enter a successful career in the media industry.
Press Contact:
Hayley Brinkman | Big Picture Media
195 Broadway, Suite 341. Brooklyn NY 11211
Hayley@bigpicturemediaonline.com | o: 212.675.3103 c: 845.321.5788
The 13th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Announces Full Program
Participants to include:
Katori Hall (Starz’s P-Valley)
Deniese Davis (HBO’s Insecure & A Black Lady Sketch Show)
Shakira Barrera (Netflix’s Glow & Orange is the New Black)
Alia Shawkat (Fox/Netflix’s Arrested Development)
Roy Wood Jr. (The Daily Show w/ Trevor Noah)
+ more
“BFF gives, directors, cinematographers, and actors from around the world a platform to shine On"
–PopSugar
“The Bushwick Film Festival shines a light on indie filmmakers and diversity in the film industry.”
– NBC
“This is the moment that Brookylyn film buffs have been waiting for.”
– News 12
New York, NY – September 25, 2020 – The Bushwick Film Festival (BFF) is excited to announce the full program for its 13th Annual edition. Due to Covid-19 event restrictions, this year the festival is going virtual from October 21-25 and will include over 100 independent films from 30 different countries. Movies can be viewed at watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com, a secure streaming platform sponsored by Spectrum.
In addition to films, the festival features a 2-day movie industry conference with notable speakers, screenplay readings, industry mixers, movie trivia nights and a series of filmmaker Q&As. The most anticipated events, opening night and awards ceremony, will be presented in partnership with Chemistry Creative, Liman Video Rental and BRIC. The show will feature special messages from local celebrities and elected officials including Congresswoman Nydia Velasquez, Brooklyn Borough President Eric Adams, Assemblywoman Maritza Davila, Council Member Antonio Reynoso, MOME Commissioner Anne del Castillo, and President and CEO Designate of Empire State Development Eric Gertler. The opening night show and the awards ceremony will be free to watch and broadcasted on Facebook Live and other streaming platforms.
This year with a theme of transformation and a glowing butterfly used as a visual representation, the festival celebrates not only filmmakers for always reminding us of our inherent courage and perseverance through their characters, but also how much we continue to transform as a better global community.
Bushwick Film Festival prides itself on being a home for film lovers. Over the last decade, BFF has screened the works of nearly 500 independent filmmakers from Brooklyn and over 50 different countries, proudly shining a spotlight on womxn and diverse filmmakers. The BFF has grown into one of the most anticipated events in Brooklyn and is recognized for its contribution to the borough’s artistic, cultural, and economic growth.
“After 13 years, I still get so excited when the festival arrives. Working with my team to present the festival this year despite all the challenges, is a testament to our collective love and commitment to storytelling.” says Festival director Kweighbaye Kotee. We have an incredible lineup of films and great conversations in store!”
See below for the full program. For tickets and passes, please visit: watch.bushwickfilmfestival.com
The Jury for BFF 2020 includes:
Feature Narrative
Amanda Trokan, Director, Content Acquisition (HBO + HBO Max), WarnerMedia
David Ninh, Director of Press and Publicity, Kino Lorber
Julie Christeas, Producer, Tandem
Feature Documentary
Denae Peters, Program Officer, Perspective fund
Ximena Amescua, Artist Programs Coordinator, Firelight Media
Jordan Mattos, Founder, Aspect Ratio
Short Narrative
Marrie-Lou Nahhas, Actress, Orange is the New Black
Shakira Barrera, Actress, Glow & Orange is the New Black
Jason Sondhi, Co-Founder & Editor-in-Chief, Short of the Week
Short Doc + Web Series
Opal H. Bennett, Director of Filmmaker Development, DOCNYC
Florentina Almonte, Content Acquisitions Executive, Shorts TV International
Tamara P. Carter, Writer, HBO’s The Leftovers & Starz’s P-Valley
###
BUSHWICK FILM FESTIVAL: FULL SCHEDULE
Feature Film Program
SANZARU | Dir. Xia Magnus, 86 min, Narrative, USA
Evelyn, a nurse from the Philippines, moves in to care for Dena, an elderly woman declining into dementia. When Evelyn's nephew, Amos, is forced to come stay with them, he develops a connection with Dena's enigmatic son. Mysterious forces haunt Dena, and her violent hallucinations begin to hint at a dark secret lurking in the house. As the two broken families find themselves dangerously isolated under one roof, Evelyn uncovers a haunting truth that threatens to resurrect everyone's past traumas.
Ticket info for Sanzaru: https://bit.ly/3036KTy
BLANCO DE VERANO (SUMMER WHITE) | Dir. Rodrigo Ruiz Patterson, 87 min, Narrative, Mexico, Language: Spanish
13-year-old Rodrigo is a solitary teenager who finds solace in his intimate relationship with his mother, Valeria. She is his best friend, his protector, and his entire world. When her new boyfriend comes to live in their small house on the outskirts of Mexico City, however, Rodrigo finds his domain completely disrupted. He must decide if he should accept his new family or fight back and hurt the person he loves the most.
Ticket info for Blanco De Verano (Summer White): https://bit.ly/3iWzIfv
CICADA | Dir. Matthew Fifer, co-dir. Kieran Mulcare, 96 min, Narrative, USA
After a string of unsuccessful and awkward encounters with women, Ben goes “back on the dick.” Cicada follows Ben, a young bisexual man, as he comes out to the world and develops an intense relationship with Sam, a man of color struggling with deep wounds of his own. As the summer progresses and their intimacy grows, Ben’s past crawls to the surface.
Ticket info for Cicada: https://bit.ly/3cP2MmZ
THE LAWYER | Dir. Romas Zabarauskas, 97 min, Narrative, Lithuania & Serbia, Language: Lithuanian
Life drifts by for gay corporate lawyer Marius, his time spent teasing friends and chasing young lovers. One day, Marius’ estranged father dies. Mourning turns to love as the lawyer finds an unanticipated connection with a sex-cam worker Ali – a Syrian refugee stuck in Belgrade.
Ticket info The Lawyer: https://bit.ly/3coiQvq
TAKE OUT GIRL | Dir. Hisonni Mustafa, 98 min, Narrative, USA
Tera Wong delivers Chinese food for her mother’s struggling restaurant located in the “Low Bottoms,” an infamous Los Angeles project. And everyone around her, including her unpredictable brother (Saren), are financially trapped in this crime and violence-ridden neighborhood. That is until, Tera takes a job from the local drug Kingpin, moving his “product” inside her takeout food boxes. With the cash rolling in, Tera intends to move the family restaurant to the suburbs and go clean. But after a series of tragic events, the dream that Tera built on a foundation of lies, may crumble.
Ticket info Take Out Girl: https://bit.ly/3iYJLjU
CELESTE | Dir. Ben Hackworth, 90 min, Narrative, Australia
Hidden from the world at a crumbling estate in lush tropical Far North Queensland, Celeste anxiously reaches out to Jack, her late husband’s son, inviting him to return to the languid, sprawling family home for her much-anticipated recital. Jack’s reappearance after a long absence stirs up unsettling memories, pulling them both into a mutually precarious orbit.
Ticket info for Celeste: https://bit.ly/3hY4WBi
ALBERTO AND THE CONCRETE JUNGLE | Dir. Chris Shimojima, 99 min, Narrative, USA
Alberto and the Concrete Jungle introduces us to a new memorable hero, Alberto Buenaventura, played by rising Puerto Rican actor Alejandro Santoni. Alberto is a digital nomad, living on the road, commitment-free, but due to absurd reasons, suddenly finds himself unable to leave New York. Follow him as he traverses the 5 boroughs, meeting diverse and colorful characters that complicate his escape plans and, in some cases, tempt him to settle down. Filmed guerilla-style in the middle of real street life, "Alberto" subverts, deconstructs, and modernizes the Indiana Jones adventure genre, turning it into an urban indie comic-opera. Original music score by acclaimed composer Ljova.
Ticket info for Alberto and the Concrete Jungle: https://bit.ly/3mZ9f3m
MILKWATER | Dir. Morgan Ingari, 101 min, Narrative, USA
Seeking direction and purpose, Milo rashly decides to become a surrogate and egg donor for an older gay man she meets in a bar. However, as Milo becomes increasingly attached to him, she starts leveraging the pregnancy as a means of staying embedded in his life.
Ticket info for Milkwater: https://bit.ly/2RRepjB
TOPRAK | Dir. Sevgi Hirschhäuser, 105 min, Narrative, Turkey, Language: Turkish
Since the death of his parents, the teenage Burak has lived with his uncle Cemil and grandmother in a remote Turkish village. The small family unit has been trying to make a living by selling fruits. While the religious Cemil is satisfied to live his life in poverty, Burak struggles to leave for the city and attend university. When grandmother falls sick, both Burak and Cemil have to make tough decisions that will change their lives forever.
Ticket info for Toprak: https://bit.ly/33RpeaJ
ASIMETRIJA (ASYMMETRY) | Dir. Maša Nešković, 93 min, Narrative, Montenegro & Serbia, Language: Serbian
A girl and a boy. A young woman and a young man. A middle-aged couple separating. The summer is boiling hot, streets of Belgrade are empty, stories of three couples intertwine almost randomly. As the narrative unfolds, a larger picture of only one couple emerges -- one couple in three key stages of their life.
Ticket info for Asimetrija (Asymmetry): https://bit.ly/3hRCp0o
THE DARK END OF THE STREET | Dir. Kevin Tran, 70 min, Narrative, USA
A sprawling mosaic of American life intertwined. On a single night, stories connect and disconnect throughout a suburban neighborhood where someone is killing people pets causing insecurities, anxieties, and violence.
Ticket info The Dark End of the Street: https://bit.ly/3mO3TYo
写真の女 (WOMAN OF THE PHOTOGRAPHS) | Dir. Takeshi Kushida, 89 min, Narrative, Japan, Language: Japanese
One day, middle-aged photographer and retouching artist Kai encounters Kyoko, a beautiful woman and model with a huge and ugly scar on her body. Kyoko asks Kai if he can use his retouching skills to erase the scar in her modeling photos and create a perfect and flawless body. Although fascinated by her newfound “perfection,” Kyoko is also confused about what version of her photographs (touched up vs. real) she should share with the world. Torn by this crisis of identity, she falls into despair. Kai feels that only he can salvage Kyoko from her anguishes, and he is determined to love her at all costs.
Ticket info for Woman of the Photographs: https://bit.ly/30k0jfh
DARK CITY: BENEATH THE BEAT | Dir. TT The Artist, 65 min, Documentary, USA
Dark City: Beneath The Beat is an audiovisual experience that defines the soundscape of Baltimore city. Inspired by an all original Baltimore club music soundtrack, the film spotlights local club artists, DJs, dancers, producers, and Baltimore’s budding creative community as they are realizing their life dreams. Rhythmic and raw, these stories illustrate the unique characteristics of the city’s landscape and social climate through music, poetry, and dance. From the city’s social climate to its creative LGBTQ community, Dark City: Beneath The Beat showcases Baltimore club music as a positive subculture in a city overshadowed by trauma, drugs, and violence.
Ticket info for Dark City: Beneath the Beat: https://bit.ly/305jfhv
THE UNIVERSALITY OF IT ALL | Dir. Andres Bronnimann, 90 min, Documentary, Canada, Costa Rica, France, Germany, Nicaragua, Syrian Arab Republic, UK, USA & Yemen
The Universality of It All is a feature-length documentary that focuses on the topics of human migration and inequality from a fresh and nuanced perspective. The filmmaker tells the story of his best friend Emad, a Yemeni refugee living in Vancouver, Canada, and by doing so, he ends up arriving to a profound realization about the interconnectedness of all the major events of the 21st century. The film takes the viewer on a journey around the world, analyzing different cases of migration from an economic and historical perspective, while simultaneously delving into the life, thoughts and experiences of Emad. This back-and-forth juxtaposition between narratives is what ultimately allows the audience to see the similarities and correlations that all migrations on earth share.
Ticket info for The Universality of It All: https://bit.ly/302Tuyx
THE GRAND UNIFIED THEORY OF HOWARD BLOOM | Dir. Charlie Hoxie, 66 min, Documentary, USA
Howard Bloom spent much of the 1970s and ’80s as the publicist for iconic musicians like Michael Jackson, Prince, Joan Jett, Run DMC, and Aerosmith. When a rare disease left him housebound for 15 years, Bloom reinvented himself as an author, publishing several books on evolutionary psychology and humanity’s role in the universe. Now in his 70s, the eccentric philosopher readies an unfathomably long masterwork that will unify all of his unorthodox theories and makes plans for his legacy.
Ticket info for The Grand Unified Theory of Howard Bloom: https://bit.ly/3035NdW
THIS LAND, OUR VOICES | Dir. Julia Thompson & Kevin Bay, 45 min, Documentary, USA
How do we define America? How do we as Americans tell the history of where we come from and how that informs who we are? This Land, Our Voices is an anthology film composed of five shorts: "The Cost of Land," "Arikira," "Help is on the Way," "Queen of Kalispell," and "Young Bear PI." Each section tells the story of one American and their relationship to their land and their legacy.
Ticket info: https://bit.ly/2FTNK38
NAVIGATING THRU | Dir. Lindsay Taylor Jackson, 88 min, Documentary, USA
Navigating THRU follows the journey of several women as they hike 2,200 miles along the Appalachian Trail.
Ticket info Navigating THRU: https://bit.ly/361u7AP
MAURICE HINES: BRING THEM BACK | Dir. John Carluccio, 94 min, Documentary, USA
Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back is an intimate portrait of the charismatic song-and-dance man from his tap-dancing childhood to today. Maurice and friends — including Chita Rivera, Mercedes Ellington and Debbie Allen — tell tales from his seven-decade career, from Broadway to big screen. The film also sheds light on Maurice’s loving yet difficult relationship with his superstar brother, the late Gregory Hines. Ever battling the challenges of being a gay, black man in showbiz, Maurice shares his own story with humor and grace.
Ticket info Maurice Hines: Bring Them Back: https://bit.ly/35WHC4O
LOVEMOBIL | Dir. Elke Margarete Lehrenkrauss, 105 min, Documentary, Germany, Language: Bulgarian & German
Besides the dark highway roads of rural Germany, prostitutes from foreign countries work in old VW-Buses in the forest. ln, this uncanny world murder of one of the women takes place, forcing the women to take action.
Ticket info Lovemobil: https://bit.ly/302hG40
TEDDY, OUT OF TUNE | Dir. Daniel Freeman, 67 min, Documentary Hybrid, USA
With a piano strapped to the back of his truck, a nomadic street musician drives 2,000 miles north to Canada on an emotional mission to spread his mother's ashes. Along the way he encounters a peculiar mix of friends and strangers that allow him to share more about his complicated history with mental health and abuse.
Ticket info for Teddy, Out of Tune: https://bit.ly/3hWemNO
LES CHIENS-LOUPS (WOLFDOGS) | Dir. Domenic Leclerc, 92 min, Documentary, Canada, Language: French
Armed solely with the French writer La Fontaine's famous fable "The Dog and the Wolf", a resourceful actor spends six months in a working-class neighborhood teaching elementary school students the meaning of freedom.
Ticket info for Les Chiens-Loups (Wolfdogs): https://bit.ly/331i9W9
QUEEN OF LAPA | Dir. Theodore Collatos & Carolina Monnerat, *Special Screening, 74 min, Documentary, Brazil, Language: Portuguese.
Larger-than-life actress, cabaret performer, activist, and proud sex professional since the age of eleven, Luana Muniz - arguably one of Brazil’s most recognizable transgender personalities, shapes a new reality for a new generation of transgender sex workers in her hostel by providing a safe working environment in the dangerous neighborhood of Lapa in Rio de Janeiro. Queen of Lapa explores the day-to-day lives, quests for love, housemate rivalries in a turbulent political climate under matriarch Muniz’s watchful and guiding eye.
Ticket info for Queen of Lapa: https://bit.ly/3crFxz1
SHORT FILM PROGRAM
RECLAMATION: THE RISE AT STANDING ROCK l Dir. Michele Noble, Short Doc, USA | 23 min
The Native Nations unite to lead a peaceful resistance against the Dakota Access Pipeline which awakens the world.
Ticket info for Reclamation: The Rise at Standing Rock: https://bit.ly/337mKG2
DROP A PIN | Themed Shorts Block, 86 min
There are no travel restrictions at the Bushwick Film Festival — Oahu, Hawaii, the coffee hills in Costa Rica, the City of Lights, a living room in Los Angeles … that’s where we’re going.
Each location has its own culture, its own set of circumstances, its own predicaments, injustices, joys, questions. There are a trillion stories from around the world, seven of which populate this block. Don’t expect to come back the same as you went in.
Films Include:
THE GREAT FAIR | Dir. Andrew Wonder, Short Doc, United States
CAFÉ DE TEMPORADA | Dir. Maria Luisa Santos, Short Doc, Costa Rica, Language: Spanish
DAFA METTI (DIFFICULT) | Dir. Tal Amiran, Short Doc, France, Language: Wolof
KAMA'ĀINA (CHILD OF THE LAND) | Dir. Kimi Howl Lee, Short Narrative, USA
LEWISTON | Dir. David Shayne & Jacob Roberts, Short Doc, USA
COTTON CANDY | Dir. Fredgy Noël, Narrative, USA, Language: Haitian, Spanish
JESA | Dir. Kyungwon Song, Short Doc, Animation, Republic of Korea, Language: Korean
Ticket Info for Drop a Pin: https://bit.ly/3kHSqHZ
BLACK MAMBA | Themed Shorts Block, 95 min
Kobe Bryant recreated his form, donning the alter-ego “Black Mamba” to shed the weight of his unraveling private life while on the court, reclaiming his focus and agility from the state of turmoil he was in.
The real life humans in this block of films all have their own Black Mamba; that one thing that they needed in order to either survive or thrive; to feel whole. Tune in to see the fiery torch that Kobe passed along.
Films Include:
CONFESSIONS OF A RUNNER | Dir. Bachar Khattar, Short Doc, Lebanon
NATALIE'S POINT OF VIEW l Dir. Abigail Fuller, Short Doc, USA
SIGN AT ALL TIMES: A FILM ABOUT BRIAN ESTRADA l Dir. Andrew Leibman, Short Doc, USA
A PLACE TO BOWL l Dir. Gabe Jacobs, Short Doc, USA
SONNIE l Dir. Samuel Mirpoorian, Short Doc, USA
CORNER MAN l Dir. Lachlan Hinton & Jackson Devereux, Short Doc, USA
FINDING ELIJAH l Dir. Yolonda Johnson-Young, Short Doc, USA
Ticket Info for Black Mamba: https://bit.ly/3mLBIcK
I AGAINST I | Themed Shorts Block, 74 min
Sometimes we lie to ourselves, sometimes we stumble upon the truth. In this block we’ve got a yuppie couple pushing a pyramid scheme to an anti-capitalist punk rock band, a lonely isolated woman trying to connect with others via a new augmented reality device, and a trans artist that subtly challenges viewers to examine some of their most deeply held assumptions. Join us to see who in these films breaks on through to the other side (of themselves).
Films Include:
IMAGINARY FRIEND l Dir. Zachary Rubin, Short Narrative, USA
JOURNAL l Dir. Alexander Bliss, Short Narrative, USA
AUTOMATIC l Dir. Emma Doxiadi, Short Narrative, Greece
I AGAINST I l Dir. Shaun Seneviratne, Short Narrative, USA
JES FAN:INFECTIOUS BEAUTY l Dir. Jia Li, Short Doc, USA
THE TAXIDERMIST l Dir. Natalie Johnson, Short Narrative, USA
Ticket Info for I Against I: https://bit.ly/32XKXi5
THE UNICORNS l Themed Shorts Block, 104 min
filmmaking unicorn (ˈfilm-ˌmā-kiŋ yü-nə-ˌkȯrn) n. An unusual, rare, or unique filmmaker.
Filmmaking unicorns are not a dying breed, not at Bushwick Film Festival anyway. The filmmaking unicorns in this block will test you — they’ll test your emotional durability, your sense of taste, your sanity. Under normal circumstances, we would only screen these kinds of films when the clock strikes midnight. This year you’ll have the opportunity to lose your s*** at any time of day you like.
Films Include:
MAKE A WISH l Dir. Dinh Thai, Short Narrative, USA
OTHERS l Dir. Grace Rex, Short Narrative, USA
TRAMP l Dir. Emelia Benoit-Lavelle, Short Narrative, USA
EAT THE RAINBOW l Dir. Brian Benson, Short Narrative, USA
MIDNIGHT COFFEE l Dir. Jaime Levinas, Short Narrative, USA
TUESDAY NIGHT FEVER l Dir. Chris & Lowe McKee, Short Narrative, USA
MY DINNER WITH WERNER l Dir. Maverick Moore, Short Narrative, USA
HOSS l Dir. Ryan McGlade, Short Narrative, USA
Ticket Info for The Unicorns: https://bit.ly/3mO4qJN
PAVING OVER PARADISE l Themed Shorts Block, 72 min
“The world is about to be swallowed by a black hole. Meteorites fall from the sky. Ocean waves take on enormous new heights. Chaos abounds in city streets as people confront their looming demise ..."
Take note, this is only a description for one(!) of the films in this block (see: A Hole) of environmentally-conscious shorts. Gangster-like corporations and government entities have wreaked havoc on our natural world and these films are here to provide the damning evidence.
Don't worry, you'll still find a surprising amount of optimism!
Films Include:
(YOU'LL MAKE IT IN) FLORIDA l Dir. Phil Chernyak, Short Narrative, USA
LUGAR ALUM (NO PLACE) l Dir. Gabriel Amaral, Short Narrative, Brazil, Language: Portuguese
RÖSTER OM VÅR TID (BY THE POWER PLANT) l Dir. Per Wichmann, Short Doc, Sweden, Language: German, Modern Greek (1453-), Polish
SUMMER IN THE CITY l Dir. Mojo Lorwin, Short Narrative, USA
A HOLE l Dir. Molly Murphy, Short Narrative, Animation, USA
Ticket Info for Paving Over Paradise: https://bit.ly/2RTEEG0
WATER THE PLANTS (*THE NON-URBAN DICTIONARY VERSION) | Themed Shorts Block, 78 min
Relationships with family, friends, and lovers all require work, investment, and care in order to evolve and thrive. In the absence of fine-tuned attention, at one point or another, these relationships end up on the figurative chopping block. In other words, if you forget to water the plants, they die (so leave a note!).
Films Include:
BLACKHEADS l Dir. Emily Ann Hoffman, Short Narrative, Animation, USA
WALI & ZURI l Dir. Derrick Woodyard, Short Narrative, USA
DINNER l Dir. My Linh Le Tran, Short Narrative, Vietnam, Language: Vietnamese
WATERS OF MARCH l Dir. Chase Johnson, Short Narrative, USA
CARO COMES OUT l Dir. Brit Fryer & Caro Hernandez, Short Doc, USA
K.I.N.G. l Dir. Rashad Frett, Short Narrative, USA
DONUTS l Dir. Anu Valia, Short Narrative, USA
Ticket Info for Water the Plants (*The Non-Urban Dictionary Version): https://bit.ly/363mF8u
CHASING BUTTERFLIES l Themed Shorts Block, 76 min
When one ‘chases a butterfly’ they are after something — a person, a feeling, a memory — they can never get, that’s always out of reach … devastated yet? Hold on.
In this block we have both a story about an underground jazz club, as well as a gold digger that uses a magic spell to try to get her sugar daddy back. Still with us? We’ve got docs, comedy, science-fiction, and a period piece. Variety? Check. And most crucially, we have each filmmaker present — latent — stretching out their figurative hand, inviting you to grab hold so that you can experience the journey safely. Trust us, you’re in good hands.
Films Include:
I DO NOT SLEEP l Dir. Beppy Gietema, Short Narrative, USA
MARGO & PERRY l Dir. Becca Roth, Short Narrative, USA
AGUA 'E PANTY l Dir. Astrid Perez, Short Narrative, Dominican Republic, Language: Spanish
UTRANSFER l Dir. Giorgio Miraflor, Short Narrative, USA
FORMERLY FUNDAMENTALIST l Dir. Mike Musikanto & John Richie, Short Doc, USA
POST 398 l Dir. David Drake, Short Doc, USA
Ticket Info for Chasing Butterflies: https://bit.ly/3croZHo
KISSING THE BEEHIVE: COMING-OF-AGE TALES l Themed Shorts Block, 65 min
Transformation hits in perhaps its most intensive form when we reach the precipice of adulthood. Young enough to embrace their optimism and maybe just old enough to have encountered enough knocks of life to know a little better. This block features films that examine the lives of courageous and curious young people with pluck. Moviegoing audiences can’t seem to get enough of watching them take their swing at life.
Films Include:
EAGLE l Dir. Jose Avecado, Short Narrative, USA
2 BLACK BOYS l Dir. Rachel Myers, Short Narrative, USA
斑馬魚 (ZEBRAFISH) l Dir. Bruce Lu, Short Narrative, Taiwan, Language: Chinese
SPARROW l Dir. Boris Krichevsky & Nikita Zarkh, Short Narrative, USA
MY HERO l Dir. Logan Jackson, Short Narrative, USA
BANANAS GIRL l Dir. Shayna Connelly, Short Doc, USA
Ticket Info for Kissing the Beehive: Coming-of-Age Tales: https://bit.ly/2RRbp6P
HELLO, CLARICE l Themed Shorts Block, 88 min
Have you ever looked closely at the movie poster for The Silence of the Lambs? No, that’s not a butterfly — that’s a Death's-Head Hawkmoth! …
Wait, let’s start at the beginning: one of the all-time great character and acting transformations belong to Clarice Starling (Jodie Foster) in the aforementioned film. Released in 1991, The Silence of the Lambs still stands as a touchstone for actors, featuring an iconic expression of the power of self-transformation.
Although the different stages of transformation for a Death’s-Head Hawkmoth are fascinating within the context of that film, what we’re more interested in here are the women who appear front and center in these magnificent shorts. Each one of them on their own journey, pursuing growth and doing it on their own terms.
Films Include:
CURTAIN CALL l Dir. Angel Yau, Short Doc, Animation, USA
RENO l Dir. Daniel Fethke, Short Doc, USA
YAI NIN l Dir. Champ Ensminger, Short Doc, Thailand, Language: Thai
IN ACCESS l Dir. Jade Williams, Short Doc, USA
امرأة سورية (A SYRIAN WOMAN) l Dir. Khawla Al Hammouri & Louis Karim Sayad DeCaprio, Short Doc, Jordan, Language: Arabic
CHICK FLICKS l Dir. Tatiana Jorio, Short Doc, USA
IN THE PINK l Dir. Katharine Stocker, Short Narrative, United Kingdom, USA
Ticket Info for Hello, Clarice: https://bit.ly/3046wf4
STORM THE GATES | Themed Shorts Block, 110 Min
During an impassioned keynote speech at AFI’s Directing Workshop for Women, filmmaker Jill Soloway said the following: “Instead of waiting for the industry to change or waiting for the guys to change, instead storm the gates, grab hands with each other … snarl at the bases of those watchtowers like wild lady-dogs. Wrestle the male directors out of the chairs, then put the chair back up and sit in it!”
The courageous filmmakers in this block all examine power — who has it, who gets to wield it — and leave us asking what change can be achieved through self-determination. This is the must-see block of 2020.
Films Include:
SIXTEEN THOUSAND DOLLARS l Dir. Symone Baptiste, Short Narrative, USA
SLAVE CRY l Dir. Jai Jamison, Short Narrative, USA
HIS-STORY l Dir. Anthony Colon, Short Doc, USA
SAY YOU WILL l Dir. Mariel Sosa, Short Doc, USA
ALINA l Dir. Rami Kodeih, Short Narrative, USA, Language: German & Polish
FLUNKYBALL l Dir. Tess Forestieri, Short Narrative, USA, Language: Arabic & German
FOR YOUR CONSIDERATION l Dir. Poppy Gordon, Short Narrative, USA
THE THIN BLUE VARIETY SHOW l Dir. Gretta Wilson, Short Narrative, Animation, USA
THE CLARINET l Dir. Anne Windsland, Short Narrative, USA
Ticket Info for Storm the Gates: https://bit.ly/32WtNBx
THE SUPER 8 FEELING (WEB SERIES / NEW MEDIA) l Themed Web Series / New Media Block, 128 min
In the words of Nicolas Cage, “The Super 8 feeling is what my brother and I used to feel when we made movies in the backyard with the camera our dad bought us when we were kids. I didn’t care about awards or money… It was simply because we loved making the movie and telling a story.”
The home movie has come a long way since portable video cameras became commonplace in the 80s and 90s. Today, artists are getting together with their friends and creating diverse multi-layered work. In this series, we spotlight profiles of nurses who otherwise may not have gotten one, gentrification comedies, and an artist by the name of Gazoo who defies almost all descriptions. Though disguised as a new medium, the web series has its roots in the Super 8 feeling and sits here as an intersection between the ancient, the old, and the new.
Web Series / New Media Include:
SIDEWAYS SMILE l Dir. Hang Nguyen, Web Series Narrative, USA
BEAM ME UP l Dir. Lana Boy & Matthew Charof, Web Series Doc, USA
A DIARY FROM THE FRONTLINE l Dir. Emma Watts, Web Series Doc, Italy, United Kingdom & USA
COUP! l Dir. Matthew Klaus Esolda & Brian Goodheart, Web Series Narrative, USA
DISLABELED l Dir. Brian McCarthy, Web Series Doc, USA
HOW TO FIRE SOMEONE (WITH JULES AND JONAS) l Dir. Mike Lars White, Short Narrative, USA
FREDERICK DOUGLASS BOULEVARD AKA FOOD & DRINK BOULEVARD AKA F.D.B. l Dir. Washington Kirk, Web Series Narrative, USA
Ticket Info for The Super 8 Feeling (Web Series / New Media): https://bit.ly/35ZetG8
Special Events
Movie Industry Conference October 24 & 25
The Streaming Revolution Continues
Writing for TV
How to get an Agent
Production: Post Pandemic and BLM
Social Media for Storytellers
From Book2Screen
Conversation with Award-Winning Writers
Conversation with BFF Alumni
Masterclass on Foley
Animation Studios
Tickets here:
Opening Night Show, Wed, October 21, 2020 8:00 PM | TUNE IN: https://bit.ly/32XE7cm
Opening Night Filmmaker Q&As, Wed, October 21, 2020 9:00 PM | TUNE IN: https://bit.ly/3jaXVPn
Industry/Filmmakers Meetings, Thurs, October 22, 2020, 10:00 AM | By invitation only
Live Music Daily, October 21 - 25, 2020 | IG Live https://bit.ly/3mJwe21
Industry Networking Event, Sat, October 24, 2020, 3:00 PM | RSVP (badgeholders only): https://bit.ly/3cp8Jql
Movie Trivia Night, Sat, October 24, 2020, 9:00 PM | RSVP: https://bit.ly/3hXpkCP
Screenplay Table Reading, Sat, October 24, 2020, 4:30 PM | RSVP: https://bit.ly/35Y9G7X
Awards Ceremony, Sun, October 25, 2020, 7:00 PM | RSVP: https://bit.ly/2Eyhi5D
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Press Contact:
Hayley Brinkman | Big Picture Media
195 Broadway, Suite 341. Brooklyn NY 11211
Hayley@bigpicturemediaonline.com | o: 212.675.3103 c: 845.321.5788
13th Annual Bushwick Film Festival Launches First Virtual Festival from October 21-25
Presenting 5 Days of Virtual Screenings, Events and Panels to Audiences around the world!
