John Wildman

Naples International Film Festival announces Call for Entries for 2022 fest in October

Call for entries is now open for the 2022 Naples International Film Festival (NIFF), which will take place October 27-30. The 14th iteration of the popular regional film festival, named one of the “Top 25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World” by MovieMaker Magazine in 2019, will feature the signature NIFF “fun-under-the-sun” style that has made it a favorite destination for filmmakers, industry vets, influencers, and film fans for more than a decade. The deadline for early-bird submissions is May 13, regular deadline is June 16, and the final deadline is July 6, 2022.

TOMORROW’S HOPE, Executive produced by the Saul Zaentz Charitable Foundation, turns some heads at SXSW EDU 2022

Tomorrow’s Hope producers Tamra Raven and Aaron Steinberg were joined for their screening at SXSW EDU by one of the film’s outspoken subjects Portia Kennel to talk about the film, what it took to make it, and the ongoing issues and hurdles that teachers face as we attempt to not simply educate children, but also take care of the people charged with that responsibility of teaching them.

Musician Suzanne Vega leads several filmmakers set to make their way to Oxford Film Festival at the end of March

Interim Executive Director Jim Brunzell, said, “The Oxford Film Festival has long been a nationally celebrated event among filmmakers and industry veterans. This year looks to be no different based on the sheer number of filmmakers already confirmed and expected to come to Oxford and represent their films. Local film fans here in Oxford, the state of Mississippi, and nearby in Memphis, as well know that this is a destination fest where they can immerse themselves in cinema, meet and engage filmmakers and film artists, and ask them all the questions we routinely have as we exit the theater. We are thrilled to report that this year we will clearly be able to introduce our film fans to a lot of directors, writers, actors, producers, and more!”

Cheryl Allison’s documentary HONK got a SRO preview hosted by Dallas Video Fest

offer. Standing Room Only to watch her latest documentary, HONK, about the relationship that grew between the filmmaker and a goose who had been abandoned in a local park. Allison’s videos of their encounters caught the imagination of people around the world, the press couldn’t get enough of progress reports and updates on Honk’s journey thanks to Allison’s publicizing his plight. So, prior to the film’s official film festival debut, Bart Weiss’ Dallas Video Fest hosted a special sneak preview screening.

Tallgrass Film Association has a shiny new space, a year of programming and a big 20th year anniversary ahead for 2022

Addington said, “Getting the opportunity to have our own space and to host events and our educational events is an incredible next step for Tallgrass. We are so lucky to be working with Bokeh Development to be housed in the Lux and can’t wait to expand independent film offerings to Wichita year-round. There will be a lot to talk about, because there is a lot to come!”

American Library Association Film and Media Round Table announces 2022 Notable Films for Adults

The American Library Association (ALA) Film and Media Round Table: Notable Films for Adults Committee has compiled its 2022 list of Notable Films, a list of 12 outstanding films released on video within the past two years and suitable for all libraries serving adults. Its purpose is to call attention to recent releases that make a significant contribution to the world of film. The list is compiled for use by librarians and the general adult populace.

Hugo Sobelman’s Soul Kids opens the 2022 Oxford Film Festival — film lineup with galas, honorees, world premieres, and more

Interim Executive Director Jim Brunzell, said, “We are excited to present this year’s films and special events to our local film fans here in Oxford, the state of Mississippi, and nearby in Memphis, as well. We have diligently built a program that include discovery titles, award winners, festival favorites from Venice, Toronto, Sundance, Berlin and SXSW film festivals, enlightening, innovative, and entertaining features and shorts that should inspire everyone to immerse themselves in the Oxford Film Festival world once again.”

Cinedigm picks up North American rights to Chandler Clarke’s pandemic doc ALL IN MY POWER

Clarke added, “Cinedigm’s reaction to the inspiring stories we wove together is exactly why we made the film. They understood the importance of this perspective and the delicate way we approached capturing it. Our healthcare providers had to (and still are) navigating a difficult time that will not only change their lives forever, but the course of history. Their voices need to be heard and remembered far into the future and remind us to cherish life.” 

Cat Daddies, Sirens, Holy Frit, My Dead Dad, Princess: 2022 San Luis Obispo International Film Festival teases 5 titles for the fest’s return to theaters in April

Fest Festival Director Skye McLennan. “While we are hard at work to nail down the logistics and production details to make sure we come back in-style and with all the fun and all of the great movie-loving energy that this film festival is known for, ultimately everything we do is built on the films we have selected. And we couldn’t be more thrilled with what we have got in store for everyone.”

Adah Edache Obekpa’s THE AMERICAN KING released by Vision Films in theaters, online and DVD

Lise Romanoff, CEO and Managing Director of Vision Films says, “The American King is a cross between Coming to America and Black Panther, and while this movie is delivered with comedy it depicts a very powerful commentary about the divisiveness and double standards in today’s society.  We know audiences will have a good laugh and enjoy the very talented cast.”