Charleston International Film Festival

Best of Shorts Screening at Cinebarre

2011-06-24T14:33:00.000-07:00

The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF), South Carolina’s premiere event for independent filmmakers and film enthusiasts, would like to announce the Best of Shorts Screening on June 29^th at the Cinebarre in Mt. Pleasant. If you missed the Charleston International Film Festival main event, you have the chance on Wednesday to catch festival short film award winners and audience favorites at both 7PM and 9PM. The programs will feature different films, but both include at least 7-8 shorts films of all genres in under two hours, making for a fun and unique film night out. Tickets are available at the Cinebarre box office for $8 day of or $7 in advance online at www.CharlestonIFF.com

7PM Short Block
Rooftop - Music video with local musician Emily Hearn with an appearance by Bill Murray.
(Re)Discovering Don ZanFagna – Internationally acclaimed local artist, whose work has been featured in Charleston Magazine, this short documentary displays his work that is being rediscovered and appreciated after 30 years.
The Tub - Frannie (Dedee Pfeiffer) reluctantly relives her life and her lovers, guided by a mysterious woman whom she thinks she knows.
God and Vodka -The story of a writer's final attempt to capture the words and memories, both touching and comedic, of a relationship that ended all too soon.
November – From Norway, this story is to remember and to forget the loss of loved ones. A visual and symbolic journey.
The Buck Johnson Story - A comedic short about a struggling writer, Dave, who feels the only way out of his Pork Pen job is this story about a wild redneck character, Buck F*@$in Johnson.
Place Stamp Here – The world disassembles us, and then puts us back together. This process repeats & repeats & we are never quite the same as when we started. Then again, neither is the world. Animation by twins Joy Vaccese and Noelle Melody.
How Tourette’s Saved My Life – Short comedy from local Art Institute student, this is a slice of life from a man who copes with Tourette's Syndrome, and finds his outbursts saving his life.

9PM Shorts Block

Theatre Marvelosa presents “Zee Hat!!” – Local group revels, set in a French Bistro, Ravello sings to Zee Hat!! His prize possession, as Tanti Bacci tries to prove her love for him by vowing to retrieve Zee Hat when it is stolen by Ze Fox.
Saying Goodbye – SC filmmakers present this story about a woman who has lost everything moves into a southern nursing home where a cat with the ability to predict death and a spunky fellow resident inspire her to enjoy living again.
The Perfect Hurl - An innocent 14-year-old wanders moonlit suburbia with his daredevil classmates. His first taste of trouble is one to savor.
Jeremy - When his incarcerated father is transferred to a distant prison, fourteen year-old Jeremy must face life alone with his game-show addicted brother and two violent older half-brothers.
The Story of Us - The Story of Us is about a guy who finds himself blinded by his past love.
Atroz – This comedy from Spain is about ‘Awful’ a singular teddy bear, a worn and curmudgeon one, whose owner is Luna, a little girl who has taken him as her best friend.
Sexting - People are not who they seem to be when a misdirected text message leads a young woman to meet with the wife of her boyfriend and ask what is really going on in their relationship.

World Premiere of Big Time Documentary

2011-05-11T11:57:00.000-07:00

Los Angeles based entrepreneur, fashion designer and director Kara Kurcz will be premiering her documentary, BIG TIME at the Charleston International Film Festival on May 19th, 4pm at Cinabarre, Mt Pleasant. Kara has appeared on countless media outlets such as: E! News, EXTRA, Daily 10, ABC Chicago and FOX DC. Her film has been praised as the “secret” for small business. Last month MSNBC Business featured Kara and her low cost gorilla PR tactics on “Your Business”. She also recently appeared as a small business expert on FOX NEWS.

Kara Kurcz will be available for local in person interviews about BIG TIME and the secrets to surviving the recession on May 18th and 19th. Film screeners are also available for media upon request. Local entrepreneur Richard C. Davis stars in the film, as well as several nationally successful brands. See below for more information.

ABOUT THE MOVIE:
With a "bright" idea director Kara Kurcz rolled the cameras as she and her husband emptied their bank accounts and launched the Solas handbag company from their apartment. By their fourth year of business their handbags were on the arms of dozens of celebrities, in magazines, and made over a million dollars in sales. Then the recession hit…

So Kara in search of insight reached out to some of America’s most successful entrepreneurs to learn what it takes to make it...Big Time.

Face Book: http://www.facebook.com/CharlestonIFF#!/pages/Big-TIME-Movie/208217919202987

FEATURED ENTREPRENEURS:

Richard C. Davis is the founder and president of Trademark Properties. Richard has had two hit television shows under his belt. He created and stars in A&E’s #1 rated lifestyle show, Flip This House! Season 1, as well as serves as both Executive Producer and star of The Real Estate Pros on TLC (formerly called The Real Deal).

Lisa Lillien is a 5 time best-selling author, star of the Hungry Girl TV show on the cooking channel and creator of the Hungry Girl brand.

Mindy Grossman is CEO of HSN and one of Forbes top 100 most powerful women.

Jonah White is CEO of Billy Bob Teeth Inc. made his 1st million before the age of 30.

Barry Poznick and John Stevens- CEO of Zoo Productions, creators of ‘Are You Smarter Than a 5th Grader’

Joseph Kurcz, is Chairman of The Board of Williams-Hayward, worked at the company 25 years before purchasing it and then took sales from $100,000 to $30 million.

Lisa Gregorisch-Dempsey is Telepictures Productions’ Senior Executive Producer and was the first female news director in NYC.

Sal Ferrara CEO of Ferrara Candy Inc and CFO James Buffardi are part of Ferrara Candy, which is one of the last privately owned candy companies left standing in Chicago. A 300 million dollar enterprise they are the genius behind such cult phenomenon’s as, Lemon Heads and Boston Baked Beans.

Chuck Knerr candidly speaks about growing up the son of one of America’s greatest innovators, Richard Knerr. He shares lifelong lessons and untold stories of his father’s toy company, Wham-O. Wham-O is responsible for toy sensations such as, the Hoola-Hoop, Slip n’ Slide, Water Wiggle, Frisbee and the Super Ball.

Tickets are available online at www.CharlestonIFF.com or by contacting the Charleston International Film Festival office at (843) 817-1617. Price per screening block is $10.00; however, enter promo code FZ for $5 tickets to Forbidden Zone. Festival passes are available good for access to all screenings, panels and parties (excluding the awards dinner) for $99.

Special Screening Added of Cult Classic FIlm Forbidden Zone (in color!)

2011-05-10T15:11:00.000-07:00

As a late addition, the Charleston International Film Festival is beyond excited to announce that the cult classic film FORBIDDEN ZONE (in color!) by director, Richard Elfman, has been added to the schedule, Thursday May 19^th at 11 pm at Cinebarre! Added to the fun, Richard will personally be on hand to perform a brief musical surprise number before the screening with his modified band Mystic Knights of the Cinebarre-Boingo, and will be available for a Q&A session after the show.

As if the live performance and film weren’t enough, Richard is bringing some fun stuff to give away to include: 2 Forbidden Zone DVDs (in color) signed by Richard and Danny Elfman, 2 Forbidden Zone DVDs (in black and white with a 20 minute interview and documentary), signed by Richard and Danny Elfman, 1 Forbidden Zone large movie poster, signed by Richard, Danny, and Marie-Pasale Elfman (Frenchy), and Matthew Bright (Squeezit Henderson and member of the Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo), 2 Forbidden Zone 11x17 movie posters, signed by Richard, Danny, and Marie Elfman, and Matthew Bright, and 2 Jenna Elfman autographed photos. Anybody want to race to the theater?

Made in 1982, FORBIDDEN ZONE is a musical comedy based on the stage performances of the band the Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo. The 31-year-old film has been totally restored in color and rereleased for its fans. The film follows Frenchy and Flash Hercules as they enter the alternate universe of the Sixth Dimension. Elfman, along with his brother Danny, founded the band the Mystic Knights of the Oingo Boingo in 1975. Now a filmmaker, Elfman says he is very excited to have his little film showcased in the Charleston International Film Festival.

Rad Surf Event at Festival

2011-05-09T13:49:00.000-07:00

Surf’s up, dudes! Way up, at the Charleston International Film Festival this year! On Friday, May 20^th at 11 PM at the American Theater (446 King Street) the Charleston International Film Festival will have one block fully dedicated to surfing. The films include the action adventure film DROP ZONE FIJI by director Greg Browning and WAVES IN OUR POCKET, a locally made film about Folly Beach by director Bryant Thomas. Proceeds for the block will go to Surfers Healing. Founded by Israel and Danielle Paskowitz, the organization devotes its time helping children with autism find relief through the powers of surfing.

Greg Browning will be in attendance and available for a Q&A session. In addition, at the end of the block a Body Glove wet suit will be given away to one lucky hopeful. Come support your local filmmakers and the surfing community.

Tickets are available online at www.CharlestonIFF.com or by contacting the Charleston International Film Festival office at (843) 817-1617. Price per screening block is $10.00, but special promotions and giveaways will be done through Charleston International Film Festival’s Facebook & Twitter pages. Festival passes are available good for access to all screenings, panels and parties (excluding the awards dinner) for $99.

Charleston International Film Festival 2011 Official Trailer

2011-04-20T22:18:00.000-07:00

2011 Panels and Seminars

2011-04-03T14:31:00.000-07:00

Here is the official list of the 2011 panels and workshop seminars happening at this year’s Charleston International Film Festival. Don’t miss these rare opportunities to gain insight from professionals currently working in the film industry and learn great techniques ranging from animation to 3D filmmaking. Panels and seminars will be held throughout the festival, so be sure to register for the one (or ones) that interest you! For more information and the Charleston International Film Festival’s complete festival guide log onto www.CharlestonIFF.com

PROVIDING VENUES FOR INDEPENDENT FILMS: Thursday, May 19^th@ 9:00 - 11:00 AM, Location TBA

The independent film industry is constantly changing but one thing remains the same... filmmakers want outlets for their films to be seen by as many viewers as possible. Join Michael Katchman from REEL CLICK who will discuss the cutting edge new venue streams for Independent Filmmakers. Reel Click U will all be presented as the cutting edge NEW venue providers for independent film makers. If you are looking for NEW and Innovative avenues to market your film, this is a must stop for you at the Charleston International Film Festival.

Michael Katchman has been in the film distribution business for 26 years with Orion Pictures, MGM, Lions Gate and First Look Studios. Michael has taken his years of experience and formed ReelClick.com to help open new venues for independent filmmakers.

ANIMATION WORKSHOP: Thursday, May 19^th @ 3:00 - 5:00 PM - College of Charleston

Learn Animation techniques. Keyframing and Rotoscoping are primary topics instructed by Dave Brown.

Location: College of Charleston, Thaddeus Street Education Building, 25 St. Philip Street Charleston SC room 207

*To register and for more information please contact Dave Brown at BrownDD1@cofc.edu or 843-953-8168

MOVIE EDITING WORKSHOP: Friday, May 20^th @ 3:00 - 5:00 PM - College of Charleston

Learn the fundamentals and some advanced techniques of Final Cut Pro editing software from professional Dave Brown.

Location: College of Charleston, Thaddeus Street Education Building, 25 St. Philip Street Charleston SC room 207

*To register and for more information please contact Dave Brown at BrownDD1@cofc.edu or 843-953-8168

3D WORKSHOP AND Q&A: Saturday, May 21^st @ 10:00 - NOON - American Theater/Starz Lounge

With the emerging technology of 3D, most see it as a gimmick in filmmaking. With the playing field leveled for budgets big and small, we'll tackle the economics and aesthetics of 3D production for documentaries and feature films. Led by Nic Izzi of 235 Films and pros from 3D Camera Company (3DCC) that created the magic for Saw, Resident Evil, and other productions.

SC FILM COMMISSION - INDIE GRANT PROGRAM Q&A + FILMS: Saturday, May 21^st @ 1:00 PM - American Theater

In the Fall of 2010, the South Carolina Film Commission established its Indie Grant program, the first-ever of its kind in the nation. Partnering with Trident Technical College (TTC), the program provides small grants for South Carolina filmmakers, acting as an investment in in-state talent. The grants are designed to give filmmakers a leg up as they create projects that garner industry exposure for the state, while also creating training opportunities for TTC film students.

The Film Commission will be accepting applications for the next round of Indie Grants from May 9 to May 27, 2011. For applications and more information, visit www.filmsc.com, or contact brad@creativeforgeproductions.com.

2011 Official Selections and Schedule Posting

2011-04-03T14:25:00.000-07:00

The 4th Annual Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF), South Carolina’s premiere event for independent filmmakers and film enthusiasts, would like to announce and congratulate its 2011 Official Selections! This year’s schedule of over 70 films from 9 countries was too much to contain to one venue.

That’s right, the Charleston International Film Festival has grown to three venues with:

· The vintage American Theater on King St. serving as the hub where the majority of the films will be shown

· Cinebarre, voted Charleston’s best theater in 2011

· The sizable and scenic Hippodrome will be hosting the very cool, locally produced film ANGEL CAMOUFLAGED by director Michael Givens on Saturday May 21st with an exciting soon-to-be-announced after event to follow.

Most of the films showing in this year’s festival are from the U.S. with an exhilarating 20+ from filmmakers in the southeast region and the Lowcountry. The official selections represent the pinnacle of independent filmmaking talent from around the world and range in categories from features, shorts, documentaries, and animations of all genres and can be found with story details and pictures, as well as this year’s screenplay finalists, at the Charleston International Film Festival's official webiste.

The spectacular Opening Night events will kick off on May 18^th at 7 PM at theAmerican Theater with:

· The locally-made music video ROOFTOP, starring local musician Emily Hearn & local celeb Bill Murray, directed by Brad Jayne

· Followed by the short film TWO FRIENDLY GHOSTS by UK filmmaker Parker Ellerman

· And the feature film ALLEGED by director Tom Hines, a romantic drama based on events occurring behind the scenes and outside the courtroom of the famous Scopes "Monkey Trial" of 1925.

Several films in this year’s festival are premieres or sneak previews and all films will be screened in blocks consisting of two or more films. Attendees will also have the rare opportunity to meet and greet the filmmakers, directors, producers, actors and writers.

In addition to the film and screenplay competitions, there will be workshops and panel discussions with industry professionals. More details on that to follow. And along with excellent films and educational workshops, this year’s festival will also host the not-to-be-missed nightly after-parties, and will culminate on the fifth and final night at the Awards Gala to recognize the very best of filmmaking and writing displayed during the competition.

About Charleston International Film Festival

Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization with the mission to educate, entertain, and inspire through the art and science of film. Co-founded in 2007, by film producer Summer Spooner Peacher and Charleston native Brian Peacher, the festival showcases over 70 short films, features and documentaries from around the world. Attendees gather for five days May 18-22, 2011 to attend premieres, panels, special events and the Annual Awards Gala. 2011 Sponsors include: Stolichnaya Vodka, Cinebarre, The ArtInstitute of Charleston, Hendrick’s Gin, Milagro Tequila, Sailor Jerry Rum, PDA, Charleston Magazine, Rick Hendrick BMW, Blonde Bombshell Wine, Palmetto Brewery, Big Red Monster Wine, Renaissart, GameStop, Star, LLC, Bowen’s Island,OnlineWaterProducts.com and the SC Film Commission.

Emily Hearn and Bill Murray in Opening Night's 'ROOFTOP' Premiere

2011-04-03T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hey all you Film Fanatics, are you just as excited about the Charleston International Film Festival as we are? With things just around the corner, here's an article on one of opening night's premieres entitled ROOFTOP. The independent film/music video stars singer/songwriter Emily Hearn and the one and only Bill Murray. Like what you read? Can't get enough of that hilarious Bill Murray? No need to call Ghostbusters, all you have to do is log onto the Charleston International Film Festival website and get your ticket to the one-of-a-kind event. It's as simple as that. The music video premieres on May 18th at the American Theater at 7:00 PM. Tickets will be available soon.

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*** Opening Night - 4th Annual Charleston International Film Festivalat the American Theater ***

BILL MURRAY, EMILY HEARN JAM-OUT ON THE 'ROOFTOP'

INDEPENDENT FILMMAKERS AND MUSICIANS CREATE NEW MUSIC VIDEO; GRASSROOTS PROJECT BRIDGES FILM AND MUSIC TALENT AS BUZZ GROWS

(Charleston,SC) - A group of filmmakers and musicians have taken creative collaboration to a whole new level, producing an independent music video on the streets and marshes of South Carolina starring singer/songwriter Emily Hearnand film icon Bill Murray.

The project, entitled ROOFTOP, is more reflective of an independent film project than a conventional music video. It was conceived and shot by independent filmmaker Brad Jayne, and shot with three young camera operators, two Production Assistants, and 75 extras over 8 hours, all volunteers. ROOFTOP has been selected as a featured screening on opening night at the 4th AnnualCharleston International Film Festival in May. Directed by Brad Jayne and produced by Doug Coupeand Mark Bryan (of Hootie & the Blowfish), it marks a decided departure from conventional music videos.

"This was truly grassroots," said Hearn. "There was no budget here. Just a group of talented folks coming together to make something special. For the simple joy of doing something great and creative."

"There was definitely a big guerrilla filmmaking element to this...don't even ask me how we got some of these shots," said Coupe. "But that is sometimes filmmaking art in its purest form -- getting together and making it happen. From renowned talent like Bill Murray, to the film students that helped shoot it."

This is the first of several collaborations between Jayne, Coupe, and Bryan,including their feature-film WARRIOR, on which Bryan will be acting as music supervisor. For more information, visit www.creativeforgeproductions.com.

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Additional notes of interest:

· After Oscar-nominated actor Bill Murray (Lost in Translation, Rushmore,Ghostbusters) was told about the project, he agreed to participate right away. He showed up the morning of the shoot and graciously performed his part, as Production Assistants blocked a major thorough fare and a crowd gathered.

· Emily Hearn is an up-and-coming singer/songwriter out of Athens, GA. ROOFTOP is from her first EP, Paper Heart; she will be recording her first album this summer. For more information, visit www.ctmg.usand www.emilyhearnmusic.virb.com.

2011 CIFF Face-of-the-Festival Poster Contest

2011-04-03T13:48:00.000-07:00

CIFF is conducting a juried poster competition to select the "Face-of-the-Festival" image for this year's festival. The competition is free and open to the public and the winning image will be CIFF's official 2011 festival image on display on our website, at the American Theater during the festival, on t-shirts, and in other select locations. There are no design guidelines for the poster competition; however, entries that celebrate the art of film and reflect the energy and creativity of the festival in our beautiful and historic city will be most strongly considered. Entries are due by April 5, 2011. The winner will receive international recognition for their work and 2 VIP passes to this year's festival valid for entry to all films, education seminars, panel discussions, and after-parties. Email submissions and any questions to Media@CharlestonIFF.com

2010 Jury Members Proudly Announced - Charleston International Film Festival

2010-02-17T19:57:00.000-08:00

Charleston, SC, February 16, 2010--The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) proudly announces the selection of the following esteemed Jury Members of our 2010 festival at the American Theater in the heart of historic downtown Charleston. The Jury includes industry professionals and executives from all areas of film and television production. The Jury in alphabetical order includes: Akim Anastapoulo (Attorney, Actor, Distributor), Virginia Friedman (VP and Executive Director, Center for the Documentary at the College of Charleston), Howard Katz (Film and Photography Department Chair, Art Institute of Charleston), Joanna Kerns (Actress/Director/Writer/Producer), Marshall Persinger (Producer), Jeff Monks (S.C. Film Commission), John Wilson (Trident Technical Institute Department of Radio, Television and Film Production), and Chris Pyle (Filmmaker/Editor/Emmy Award Winner). These distinguished individuals have been recognized by their peers and have won industry awards for their work and their contribution to film and television. The Charleston International Film Festival is on track to become an Academy Award Qualifier and would like to thank the above individuals for their contribution to the success of this year’s festival.

CIFF is an international film and screenplay competition, dedicated to showcasing the art and talent of emerging filmmakers and writers from the Lowcountry, U.S., and around the world. This four day event will take place April 8-11, 2010, at The American Theater in historic downtown Charleston. Now in its 3rd year, CIFF attracts visitors and aficionados from all over, and explores all genres of film across a wide range of subject matter.

About Charleston International Film Festival:
The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created in 2007 to bring people together through the art and science of film.
http://www.CharlestonIFF.com

Felix the Flyer: A Feature Film in the Making, Charleston International Film Festival

2010-02-08T16:06:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Mr. Christopher Canole, accomplished writer, professor, sculptor, editor, photographer, and true Renaissance man. His screenplay 'Felix the Flyer' which was an honored part of the Charleston International Film Festival, is being scheduled to become a full lengh feature film.

'Felix the Flyer' is a story about one of the greatest races in Olympic history retold as Cuban mailman Felix Carvajal runs the 1904 Olympic Marathon to battle the worlds best runners attacking him with racism, cheating, and drugs, to become the champion for all small national athletes who dare to dream of victory.

Click here to see a video clip about Felix the Flyer

Charleston International Film Festival Announces 2010 Poster Competition Winners

2010-02-02T23:01:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to Joy and Noelle Vacesse! The winners of the 2010 Poster Competition for the 3rd Annual Charleston International Film Festival. The competition was free and open to the public, receiving entries from NY to Memphis to Seattle and in between. The winning image will be used on the official 2010 festival poster and other CIFF promotional materials and T-shirts. The Vacceses will receive a cash prize, VIP Passes for the 2010 film festival April and recognition for their work. Click Here to See a Larger Image

April 8-11, 2010 at the American Theater (446 King St.) in downtown Charleston, S.C.

Official Logo of the Charleston International Film Festival

2010-02-02T22:52:00.000-08:00

The Official Logo of the 3rd Annual Charleston International Film Festival.

This year's event will be at the American Theater (446 King St) April 8-11, 2010.

For more information please visit http://www.charlestoniff.com/

American Theater, April 8-11, 2010

2010-01-14T14:58:00.000-08:00

For our 3rd Anniversary, we are excited to announce that our new venue for the 2010 festival will be the classy American Theater, located right in the middle of historic vibrant downtown Charleston. Opened in 1942 as Charleston's premiere movie house, it evokes regal Art-Deco architecture and a timeless Hollywood glamour. It now holds its own place in movie history after serving as the movie venue and scenic backdrop in the major motion picture, The Notebook.

Today The American is a stylish and sophisticated move premiere and event venue, worthy of red carpets and dazzling marquees. The featured selections at the 2010 CIFF will be screened in a quintessential cinema with stadium seating. Undoubtedly, the elelegant setting of The American Theater will be a special part of the audiences' movie-going experience at this year's Festival!

Welcome to the Charleston International Film Festival 2010!

2009-11-02T20:07:00.000-08:00

The Charleston International Film Festival (CIFF) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization created in 2007 to bring people together through the art and science of film. Through this unique art, which has the power to touch our emotions and provoke thought like no other, we intend to promote the exchange of ideas, a greater cross-cultural awareness, and inspire others around the world.