BIFF 2014 Award Winners

BIFFYs Awarded to Top Films

Human frailty, perseverance, fears and hope are all recognized in this year’s Beloit International Film Festival award winning films. The coveted 2014 BIFFYs were presented at the Launch Party initiating the ninth annual festival which will continue through Sunday in Beloit.

The award winners were chosen from among the 120 films in this year’s festival.  More than 700 films were submitted for consideration this year nearly doubling last years submissions.

The 19 prizes recognize the films and the filmmakers, many of whom were on hand to receive their awards.  They range from awards for soundtrack and screenplay to the top films in each category of feature, documentary, short and animation.

Three special awards for film achievement.

 

The Josh Burton Award:  When The King Tilts

BIFF film page including times & locations:  When the King Tilts

The Ken Hendricks Award for Excellence:  Vets Roll

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Vets Roll

https://vimeo.com/85862146

The BIFF Power of Film award:  Trans

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Trans

 

Best Feature film:  Jimmy in Pienk

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Jimmy in Pienk

Best Documentary:  Date America

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Date America

Best Short Film:  Studies in Space

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Studies in Space

Studies In Space

Best Animation:  Look

BIFF Animation Short Slot page including times & locations:  Look

Look

Best Comedy Short:  The Golden Ticket

BIFF Animation Short Slot page including times & locations:  The Golden Ticket

Golden Ticket

Best LGBT Film:  Hot Guys with Guns

BIFF film page including times & locations:   Hot Guys with Guns

Best Student Film:  Story of Lights

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Story of Lights

Story of Lights

Best Wisconsin Film:  Billy Club

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Billy Club

Best Illinois Film:  Night Lights

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Night Lights

Executive Directors Award:  Jake Squared

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Jake Squared

Creative Director Award:  Channeling

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Channeling

Best Screenplay:  The Human War

BIFF film page including times & locations:  The Human War

Best Art Direction:  Go Down Death

BIFF film page including times & locations:  Go Down Death

Best Soundtrack:  B-Side

BIFF film page including times & locations:   B-Side

Student Filmmaker Showcase – Best Film:  Jack & Jill

BIFF film page including times & locations:   Jack & Jill

BIFF 2014 Merchandise

If you see someone walking around Beloit with one of these swell backpacks full of BIFF 2014 merchandise stop them and say… Hey! I want some cool BIFFY stuff!

Morning Blend – WIFR | BIFF 2014

Morning Blend, WIFR interviews Kristin Peterson, Creative Director and BIFF Board Member Saul Arteaga.

Top Flick Picks | BIFF 2014

Some help from your friends at BIFF

Each year, the staff selection committee screens hundreds of films, culling them for flashes of brilliance, comedic timing, and engrossing pathos, which draws viewers into creative, unique constructed worlds of the filmmakers.

Then these staff wrote up their two top lists of what tugged at their hearts or made them burst out in surprised laughter, for example, before the ending credits rolled.

If you need help navigating what films to see during the Ten Days of BIFF, the following lists sum up the 2014 staff selection committee’s personal favorites.

The following BIFF staff members watched 700 submissions for the festival, to bring to you the very best of what truly works in film: moving cinematography, swelling music, acting chops, and so much more.

Top 7 Features or Documentaries

  1. Jimmy in Pienk – Feature
  2. Jake Squared – Feature
  3. Go Down Death – Feature
  4. Buddies – Feature
  5. Mad Ship – Feature
  6. Musgo (Moss)Feature
  7. Putzel – Feature

Top 7 Short Films

  1. America 101Comedy
  2. LookAnimation
  3. Day of the DeadAnimation
  4. Studies in SpaceExperimental
  5. Strings of ColorsAround the World
  6. Vets Roll Documentary
  7. ChernoKidsExperimental  

Greg GerardGreg Gerard

Operations Director

I’m a singer/songwriter and an avid Packers fan. When screening a film I ask: Is this a worthy story? Is it being told effectively? Are the actors believable? Does the technical quality support the action? Will this film appeal to the BIFF audience? As a creative artist, I appreciate that each submission is someone’s labor of love and deserves respect and fairness in analysis.

Top 7 Features or Documentaries

  1. Hasta NuncaDocumentary
  2. Touring TalkiesFeature
  3. ConvenienceFeature
  4. Sign PaintersDocumentary
  5. Go Down DeathFeature
  6. PutzelFeature
  7. The Golden ScallopFeature

Top 7 Short Films

  1. Studies in SpaceExperimental
  2. America 101 – Comedy
  3. Sleight of HandAnimation
  4. Air Balloon CircusAround the World
  5. Rabbit and DeerFamily
  6. GoldtoothAround the World
  7. LookAnimation  

Travis Stowers

Travis Stowers

Administrative & Selection Committee

I’m a world-traveler born and raised in Beloit. At my best, I love features and shorts that effectively use the camera as a creative tool. At my worst, I enjoy comedies filled with filthy jokes and non-sequiturs. My favorite documentaries are more thought provoking than informative and usually center around international or humanistic themes.


Top 7 Features or Documentaries

  1. Vets RollDocumentary
  2. When the King TiltsWI/IL Feature
  3. Sign PaintersDocumentary
  4. The Human WarFeature
  5. The Golden ScallopFeature
  6. Hot Guys with GunsFeature
  7. Channeling –  Feature


Top 7 Short Films

  1. Studies in SpaceExperimental
  2. This is How You DieComedy
  3. Nefertiti’s HandFamily
  4. Harry Grows UpFamily
  5. The Golden TicketComedy
  6. Day of the DeadAnimation
  7. Air Balloon Circus Around the World

Kristin Peterson – Creative Director

Kristin Peterson | BIFFCreative Director

I have great appreciation of what it takes to put together a good film. I can respect and come to adore films that make me think with their intelligent scripts. I love films that are unique, with especially innovative cinematographic choices, such as an unexpected, but interesting lighting or a camera angle not normally used.


Top 7 Features or Documentaries

  1. Go Down DeathFeature
  2. ChannelingFeature
  3. Jimmy in PinkFeature
  4. The Human WarFeature
  5. Billy ClubFeature
  6. The InstituteDocumentary
  7. Heavy Hands –  WI/IL Feature

Top 7 Short Films

  1. Studies in SpaceExperimental
  2. USPSWI/IL
  3. The WheelWI/IL
  4. Nefertiti’s HandFamily
  5. Flytopia Experimental
  6. Strings of ColorsAround the World
  7. Vets Roll Documentary 

Mark Wood named 2014 Honorary Chair

The 2014 Honorary Chair of the Beloit International Film Festival will bring a new dimension to the understanding of film with a silent message that few will forget.

Mark Wood, director, producer, and owner of ASL Films will serve as this year’s Honorary Chair and will welcome audiences and speak at a number of venues in the region during his six day visit to BIFF. In addition, his newest film, In the Can, will be shown in BIFF’s unique BIFF for the Deaf series.

About Mark Wood

Born deaf into a deaf family, Wood grew up loving to tell stories in American Sign Language (ASL). He combined this love with a passion for acting at the California School for the Deaf which eventually led him to his directing and producing career. In addition to having produced numerous full-length feature films, he has a background in stage production and direction. His film, Gerald, was honored as the best feature film at the World Deaf Cinema Film awards, Today, Mark, who resides in Austin, Texas, with his wife and son, is seeking to be recognized as a mainstream film producer who produces films in ASL.

Current Projects

He is currently working on his tenth film which is based on the true story of the protest mounted by students at Gallaudet University, a world leader in liberal education and career development for deaf and hard of hearing students in Washington, D.C. In 1988 students demanded deaf leadership for the institution in a movement called “Deaf President Now” or “DPN.” He is currently working with DPN leaders and is hoping to release the film in 2015 or 2016.

Expanding Understanding

“The Beloit International Film Festival has always offered films to engage our entire community—all ages and backgrounds. With Mark’s involvement, we hope to expand the understanding of this growing world of films for the deaf. He will visit local schools, Beloit College and the Wisconsin School for the Deaf in Delevan and will also be available to speak to area organizations during his visit, Feb. 18-23.

“BIFF has been fortunate to be able to offer the BIFF for the Deaf program for several years. This program has been made possible by the generous support of the Southern Wisconsin Interpretation and Translation Service (SWITS) and its founder Saul Arteaga, a BIFF board member. SWITS will be providing ASL interpreters during Mark’s visit.”

Past Honorary Chairs

The Honorary Chair of the Festival each year assists in introducing films, and in the education programs and at receptions for donors and friends. Filling this role over the years have been major producers like Steven McEveety (Braveheart, Passion of the Christ), David Zucker (Airplane!, Naked Gun), and Gregory Lamberson, internationally celebrated creator of horror films, independent film makers such as CK Lichtenstein and Jack Bennett, famed jewelry designer and filmmaker Robert Lee Morris, and up-and-coming young actor Bobby Coleman (Snowmen). “They add a special excitement and spirit to BIFF, and this year’s chair will be a significant addition,”.

Sponsored By

The Beloit International Film Festival, celebrating its ninth year, is sponsored by the Hendricks Group and is presented in association with Beloit College. Support for the Festival comes from area businesses and civic organizations and from Visit Beloit. Individual support for BIFF is provided through memberships in the BIFF Founders and the Film Society of Beloit.

Wisconsin Tonight – TMJ4 | BIFF 2014

Wisconsin Tonight, TMJ4 interviews BIFF’s Executive Director about the upcoming 2014 Beloit International Film Festival.

February 14th – 23rd, 2014.

Student Filmmakers | Film Submissions

BIFF Invites Submissions from Student Filmmakers

The Beloit International Film Festival is on a search for great filmmakers at the start of their careers. If you are a Martin Scorsese in the making, or if you know of one, BIFF wants to celebrate their work at the 2014 Student Filmmaker Showcase.

This is a special program where BIFF highlights the talent of young filmmakers in the region. It allows them the opportunity to receive feedback on their films from award-winning filmmakers, network with local (and international!) filmmakers, and be a part of a prestigious international film festival.

An Opportunity For Teens

This is a great opportunity for teens, whether experienced in filmmaking or just starting to develop an idea.The program is designed to encourage young filmmakers so each film submitted will be critiqued by established filmmakers. The films will be shown during BIFF 2014 and the winning filmmakers will be announced and recognized on stage during the BMO Harris Biffy Awards event on Feb. 20 at the Eclipse Center.

Submission Detail

The Student Showcase is open to filmmakers, ages 12-18, and is completely free to enter. The submission deadline is January 24. Late submissions will be accepted until February 10. It is part of the Youth at BIFF program which is made possible with the generous support of the Beloit Foundation, the Neese Family Foundation, Fairbanks Morse Engine and KIDS FIRST!

For More Information

Please get in touch with Stephen Pickering of Drywater Productions in Janesville, BIFF Student Showcase coordinator and director of BIFFstudent filmmaking workshops. He can be reached at Stephen@DrywaterProductions or at 608-728-2456.

Sponsored By

The Beloit International Film Festival, celebrating its ninth year, is sponsored by the Hendricks Group and is presented in association with Beloit College. Support for the Festival comes from area businesses and civic organizations and from Visit Beloit. Individual support for BIFF is provided through memberships in the BIFF Founders and the Film Society of Beloit.

Volunteers: It Takes A Community…

To produce the Beloit International Film Festival

It must be the new year because the 2014 Beloit International Film Festival has started its annual search for the largest volunteer force turnout in the region. BIFF runs on volunteers—300-400 to be exact. These BIFF Ambassadors are the face of BIFF and they are the people that visitors remember when they leave.

The search for BIFF Ambassadors is underway. With the expansion of BIFF to 10 days and a number of new venues in Downtown Beloit, BIFF is hoping for a great volunteer turnout.

Sign up dates & times

In the coming weeks, there will be four opportunities to sign up for times and responsibilities as BIFF Ambassadors. Sign-ups will be held at Bushel & Peck’s Local Market at 328 State St. in downtown Beloit.

  • Saturday Jan. 25 from 9 am – 2 pm
  • Saturday, Feb. 1 from 9 am – 1 pm
  • Saturday, Feb. 8 from 9 am – 2 pm
  • Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 5 pm – 7 pm

To gain a good overview of what is expected of volunteers, all volunteers will need to attend one training sessions also at Bushel & Peck’s:

  • Saturday, Feb. 8 from 11 am – noon for returning volunteers
  • Saturday, Feb. 8 from 1–2 pm for new volunteers or
  • Tuesday, Feb. 11 from 6–7 pm for all volunteers

The returning volunteer session will feature an abbreviated duties refresher plus an update on what is new to the festival this year.

Plenty of opportunities

“Whether your volunteer interest is for service as a Venue Ambassador, film technical support or box office, we will be managing all volunteer opportunities centrally, “ says Terri Burdick, BIFF board member and volunteer coordinator. “So if you want to mix it up and volunteer on different days in different capacities, we can easily meet your needs. There are plenty of opportunities for all interests”.

There are great perks for being a BIFF Ambassador that includes four film passes for each two hour commitment.

For more information:  BIFF Volunteer Page

BIFF Venue Volunteers

BIFF Volunteer Ambassadors – Mark Your Calendar

The 2014 Beloit International Film Festival is rapidly approaching and it’s bigger than ever! We hope you are again planning to join us as a volunteer! If you are considering becoming a new volunteer – WELCOME!

Each year BIFF keeps getting better and 2014 will be no exception!

Click to visit the BIFF Volunteer Information Page Here for…

  • Volunteer Sign Up Form
  • Venue Instructions
  • Volunteer categories
  • Instructional video(s) and more…

WHAT’S NEW for 2014

  • An extended format! With film spanning two weekends and the weekdays between, there will be more opportunities for our guests to see the films they want and more opportunities for our volunteers to have options that meet their schedules and interests.
  • Early film schedule release and easy email sign-up! The film schedule and related trailers are already posted here on the BIFF website. Feel free to check out the schedule, identify a film(s) that interests you and email us your interest. We can get you signed up for your volunteer time(s) as soon as you make your date/time/film selection.
  • New local venues! We are bringing our focus back to downtown Beloit with new downtown venues at Café Fromage, Club Impulse, and My Apartment. Returning venue favorites include Bagels & More, Bushel & Peck’s, Domenico’s Restaurant, Hendricks Art Center, La Casa Grande and the Rotary Center. We’ll feature the Eclipse Center for special events.
  • BIFF Music – New in 2013, BIFF + Music is back but FREE! Live musical acts will keep the BIFF vibe rockin’ into the night! We’ll keep the party going with local, regional, and national bands for those looking to stay out late!
  • Ambassador benefits! – In addition to entrance to 4 free films for each shift worked, all ambassadors will be invited to film sneak peeks that we anticipate being popular during the festival BEFORE THE FESTIVAL BEGINS! You will also be able to sign up for your volunteer times/duties at these sessions. Saturday, Jan. 25 9:00 am – 1:00 pm; Saturday, Feb. 1 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Saturday, Feb. 8, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm, and Tuesday, Feb. 11, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm.
  • One-Stop Volunteer Service – Whether your volunteer interest is for service as a venue ambassador or film technical support we will be managing all volunteer opportunities centrally. So if you want to mix it up and volunteer on different days in different capacities, we can easily meet your needs.
  • New training format! By popular demand, we will have offer an extended training for new volunteers on Saturday, Feb. 8 at 11:00 am and a ‘refresher’ version for returning volunteers on Feb. 8 at 1:00 pm. A second training session for any volunteer unable to make it on Feb. 8 will be held on Tuesday, Feb 11 at 6:00 pm. All training sessions are held at Bushel & Peck.
  • On-going patron opportunities – Our volunteers are amazing and have often wanted to extend their support of the film festival beyond their volunteer duties. This year you can do just that by joining the Film Society of Beloit. Membership in the Film Society of Beloit offers discounts on tickets and merchandise at BIFF, advance notice of films and events, special free programs and more. Multiple membership levels are available to support your interest and budget. Information about the Film Society will be available at volunteer training and can be found on the BIFF Film Society page.

We’ll send more information as the festival gets closer, but if you already know that you will be joining us again as a BIFF Ambassador, please drop an email to terri@beloitfilmfest.org or visit the BIFF Volunteer Information Page Here.

Please forward this to anyone who may be interested in joining our army of BIFF Ambassadors! We have over 600 volunteer slots to fill! We are grateful and blessed by your support!

Mark Wood | Honorary Chair for BIFF 2014

The 2014 Honorary Chair of the Beloit International Film Festival will bring a new dimension to the understanding of film with a silent message that few will forget.

 

Mark Wood | ASL Films

ASL Films logo

Mark Wood, director, producer, and owner of ASL Films will serve as this year’s Honorary Chair and will welcome audiences and speak at a number of venues in the region during his six day visit to BIFF. In addition, his newest film, In the Can, will be shown in BIFF’s unique BIFF for the Deaf series.

In The Can | ASL Film, Mark WoodBorn deaf into a deaf family in Northern California, Wood grew up loving to tell stories in American Sign Language (ASL). He combined this love with a passion for acting at the California School for the Deaf which eventually led him to his directing and producing career. In addition to having produced numerous full-length feature films, he has a background in stage production and direction. His film, Gerald, was honored as the best feature film at the World Deaf Cinema Film awards, Today, Mark, who resides in Austin, Texas, with his wife and son, is seeking to be recognized as a mainstream film producer who produces films in ASL. He is working on his tenth film

in the Can

Wed Feb 19th:  5:00 pm — Bushel & Peck’s
Thu Feb 20th:  7:30 pm — Hendricks Center for the Arts
Sat Feb 22nd:  2:00 pm — Hendricks Center for the Arts

BIFF Community

“The Beloit International Film Festival has always offered films to engage the entire community of all ages and backgrounds. With Mark’s involvement, we hope to expand the understanding of this growing world of films for the deaf. He will visit local schools, Beloit College and the Wisconsin School for the Deaf in Delevan and will also be available to speak to area organizations during his visit, Feb. 18-23.”

Swits | Southern Wisconsin Interpreting & Translation ServicesBIFF has been fortunate to be able to offer the BIFF for the Deaf program for several years. This program has been made possible by the generous support of the Southern Wisconsin Interpretation and Translation Service (SWITS) and its founder Saul Arteaga, a BIFF board member. SWITS will be providing ASL interpreters during Mark’s visit.”

The Honorary Chair of the Festival each year assists in introducing films, and in the education programs and at receptions for donors and friends.

Past BIFF Chairs

BIFF has been honored by those who have filled this role over the years from major producers like Steven McEveety (Braveheart, Passion of the Christ), David Zucker (Airplane!, Naked Gun), and Gregory Lamberson, internationally celebrated creator of horror films, to independent film makers CK Lichtenstein and Jack Bennett, famed jewelry designer and filmmaker Robert Lee Morris, and up-and-coming young actor Bobby Coleman (Snowmen). “They add a special excitement and spirit to BIFF and this year’s chair will be a significant addition,”.

BIFF 2014

The Beloit International Film Festival, celebrating its ninth year, is sponsored by the Hendricks Group and is presented in association with Beloit College. Support for the Festival comes from area businesses and civic organizations and from Visit Beloit. Individual support for BIFF is provided through memberships in the BIFF Founders and the Film Society of Beloit.

The Hendricks GroupBeloit College Visit Beloit

The Golden Scallop | The movie

A Constellation of Stars

BIFF 2014 is twinkling with Hollywood stars

A number of films we have this year are just bursting with star power! We have the warrior patriarch from the classic Braveheart. We have the Dr. Quinn: Medicine Woman. We have Two and a Half Men’s quirky neighbor. We have a “kid” from The Kids In The Hall.

Every year BIFF brings amazing independent films to our community from the four corners of the earth. On top of this, BIFF always offers independent films with familiar, high-quality Hollywood talent!

Film Selection ✓ Scheduling ✓ | BIFF Moments 12-2-13

We’ve finished the heavy lifting of reviewing all the film submissions, making the tough film selections and slotting these into the festival schedule. See all the pretty post-it notes? We’ll have all this formatted and communicated via the web, print and other as quickly as possible so stay tuned. Also, watch for upcoming BIFF Moments for updates on the upcoming BIFF season.

 

BIFF Grows to Ten Days

BIFF Grows to Ten Days | Starting Feb. 14th

From 4 days to 10 days

The Beloit International Film Festival will expand its celebration of artistry, creative commitment and community to ten days in more than a dozen venues this year, all in downtown Beloit, Feb. 14-23. Promising something for everyone, organizers have also promised a happy ending for all with a great schedule of uplifting films and comedies.

With a dramatic increase in the number of films submitted from more than 30 countries, the selection committee has tightened up the voting process guaranteeing a high quality lineup. With the new system, there will actually be fewer films with more showings in more locations, so that everybody will get a chance to see their favorites during the ten day festival, and possibly in a few previews open to the public.

Downtown Beloit Venues

Downtown Beloit Venues

…comfortable “walk-about” proximity in downtown Beloit “With all the venues within comfortable “walk-about” proximity in downtown Beloit and with additional time between screenings this year, the new downtown presentation format will make for easy flow between venues and should increase foot traffic for downtown merchants over the two weekends,” notes BIFF board president Ron Nief. Some new screening venues will be upstairs along Grand Avenue and on both side of the Rock River which will mean that nobody should have to miss out on the festival hot picks.

“We have completely revamped BIFF for 2014 and have made sure that everybody will get a good laugh out of a great lineup of comedies,”, “The submissions for consideration by BIFF have increased and the quality has been impressive. It has taken a lot of work to cut the number of films down to about 90 films this year. And while we will show films a month ahead of BIFF in Rockford and Janesville, all films during the ten-day BIFF 2014 will be screened in Beloit.”

The Showdown

…Audiences will have an opportunity to vote for films A dramatic addition to BIFF 2014 will be screenings by Wisconsin and Illinois filmmakers at the “Wisconsin-Illinois Showdown” during the first three days of BIFF, Feb. 14-16. Audiences will have an opportunity to vote for films in a variety of categories at the Showdown. “Some of these films will be in competition during the Film Festival, and some will not,”, “The Showdown offers great exposure for area filmmakers and contributes to BIFF’s efforts to build a filmmaker community in the region. We have been talking to area filmmakers and many are planning to attend and are hoping to draw their regional and supportive audiences with them.”

BIFF Silent Film Showcase

The Perennial Favorites

The program expansion will also allow BIFF to present its award winning Youth@BIFF and Student Filmmakers programs for students, with more time and opportunity for presentations. Much anticipated BIFF favorites such as the Blackhawk Bank Launch Party, the BMO Harris Silent Film Showcase featuring the Beloit Janesville Symphony, and the First National Bank Classic Film closing event, and BIFF Plus Music are all on the schedule once again.

The Sneak Peek Party

The annual BIFF Sneak Peek party at which time the full schedule will be distributed, will take place January 15 at The Ironworks Hotel (formerly the Beloit Inn) in cooperation with the Greater Beloit Chamber of Commerce. The BIFF box office will open at that time.

Pushkin and Travis Stowers

Pushkin | A BIFF fan also

One of our team members, Travis Stowers, recently moved to St Petersburg, Russia to teach English. Before hunkering down for the winter he cycled through a small suburb called Pushkin, named after the most famous and influential poet in Russian history. Bronze statues and busts of Pushkin are scattered throughout the city, and as Travis passed on his bicycle, he hopped off to BIFF the well-known writer.

BIFF Presents Free Student Filmmaker Workshops for Teens

Tomorrow’s Steven Spielberg is probably today’s Stateline area middle school or high school student, and the Beloit International Film Festival wants to help launch her or his career.

Seven Workshops Beginning Nov. 9th

Beginning Nov. 9, BIFF will present seven free film workshops for students in grades 6 through 12 at the Beloit and Hedberg Public Libraries. The workshops will teach students how to make a film, from script to screen. They will also get the participants started on actually making a film that can be submitted for review and recognition at the BIFF 2014 Student Filmmakers Showcase.

The workshops are produced in cooperation with the Beloit Public Library and will be led by Drywater Productions, a film company owned and operated by Stephen and Cameron Pickering, professional filmmakers from Janesville, whose films have been showcased at BIFF. Joining them in the hands-on production phase of the workshops is JATV, Janesville’s local public access channel that provides award-winning programs and video equipment training.

Middle School & High School Students Invited

Workshops are open to all area middle school and high school students and will take place on Saturdays, Nov. 9,16, 23 and 30 from Noon to 2:30 p.m. at the Beloit Public Library. With the skills learned in these workshops, the students can then practice filmmaking skill at after-school workshops on Wednesdays, Nov. 13, 20 and 27, at the studios of JATV at the Hedberg Public Library in Janesville from 4-6:30p.m. Buses from Beloit Memorial High School will be provided for students needing transportation.

“Film and video are the media with which today’s young people are most comfortable in expressing themselves,” notes Kristin Peterson, BIFF education director and coordinator of the Student Filmmakers programs. “Last year, 18 students completed the workshops and a number of them submitted work to the student Filmmaker Showcase. They had a chance to demonstrate their skills and to meet and question professional filmmakers on hand for BIFF. It was a great experience and may have just set a few of them on a career path.”

Workshop Schedule

  • Sat Nov. 9th | 12:00-2:30 p.m. | “Developing the Story” | Beloit Public Library
  • Wed Nov. 13th | 4:00-6:30 p.m. | Filmmaking Practice | JATV/Hedberg Public
  • Sat Nov 16th | 12:00-2:30 p.m. | “Rules of Filmmaking” | Beloit Public Library
  • Wed Nov. 20th | 4:00-6:30 p.m. | Filmmaking Practice | JATV/Hedberg Public
  • Sat Nov. 23rd | 12:00-2:30 p.m. | “Lighting and Sound” | Beloit Public Library
  • Wed Nov. 27th | 4:00-6:30 p.m. | Filmmaking Practice | JATV/Hedberg Public
  • Sat Nov. 30th | 12:00-2:30 p.m. | “The Edit” | Beloit Public Library

REGISTRATION

Students who wish to participate need to register.  Student’s interest and information should be emailed to Kristin@beloitfilmfest.org.

Students who wish to submit their work for consideration at this year’s Showcase on Feb. 15 at BIFF2014, must submit films by Jan 24. All those who submit films will receive two invitations to the annual Launch and Laurels Party at the Eclipse Center on Feb. 20 at which time they will be honored at the awards presentation.

Sponsors

These programs are made possible by generous grants from Neese family foundation, Beloit foundation and Fairbanks Morse.

Beloit Public LibraryJATVHedberg Public Library

Papa Johns Pizza                                        Old Fashion Bakery

BIFF CARES | Consider the Conversation

[2013 Season] Consider the Conversation – Rockford

Consider the Conversation

A documentary on a taboo subject.

Thursday, Oct. 10th, 7:00 p.m.
Coronado Performing Arts Center
314 North Main Street
Downtown Rockford

  • 6:30 Doors Open – Information Booths & Musical Prelude
  • 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Film (60 mins) and Panel Discussion
  • Cost is $5.00 and pre-registration is required
  • PHONE:  (815) 971-5050 to register

Note: Not a BIFF event. 

Consider the Conversation Awards

Category: Feature
Country: USA
Language: English
Rating:
Runtime:
Director: Terry Kaldhusdal, Michael Bernhagen
Producer: Burning Hay Wagon Productions
Website: Consider The Conversation
Facebook:  Consider The Conversation

Consider the Conversation is a powerful and inspiring 60-minute documentary examining multiple perspectives on end-of-life conversations and care. This thought provoking film includes intimate accounts from patients, family members, doctors, nurses, clergy, social workers and national experts. OSF Saint Anthony Medical Center, Rockford Health System and SwedishAmerican Health System are partnering to bring this important event to our community. A question & answer panel will take place after the film with the filmmakers and a panel of local health care experts.

Learn more about:

  • The importance of advance care planning for all ages
  • Emotional, physical and social burdens of dying
  • Talking with others about end-of-life wishes
Michael Bernhagen & Terry Kaldusdal

Michael Bernhagen & Terry Kaldusdal

Film Synopsis:

Consider the Conversation is a remarkable, thought-provoking film that looks at many of the issues that we will all face at the end-of-life. It opens the floodgates of thought and conversation on this most difficult and often taboo subject. It helps to illustrate many areas of improvement in our health care system. I would encourage everyone to watch this important film including physicians, healthcare workers, patients and families. This film will help us to be better physicians, better nurses, better patients and better people.
– James Roberts, M.D., Medical Director, Mayo Clinic Health System-Home Health & Hospice

Sponsored by:

Consider the Conversation | Rockford Sponsors 

Discussion Guide:

Download (PDF, 2.1MB)

 

The Van | Janesville Irish Fest

Irish BIFF Stew

janesville-irish-fest

Join Kerry Ingredients & Flavours, the Rock County Historical Society (RCHS) and the Beloit International Film Festival (BIFF) for a celebration of Irish food, music, and film.

The opening act of the first annual Janesville Irish Fest is bound to be a hit with the award-winning Irish duo PATRICK & GERARD performing onstage at the Rock County Historical Society. Enjoy Irish Stew and rustic breads as the house band from Milwaukee’s Mo’s Irish Pubs entertains. This duo has been performing for nearly a decade and features WAMI award-winning guitarist Kevin Patrick and Wisconsin legendary vocalist and Grammy nominated songwriter Greg Gerard.

http://youtu.be/Xcdo4XgsoK8

The Van starring Colm Meaney

WHEN:  Thursday, October 3rd, 2013  @ 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM

WHERE:  The Rock County Historical Society
440 North Jackson Street, Janesville, WI 53545

COST:  $10 per person – Music, film and bottomless Irish Stew.
Advance tickets available from the RCHS & BIFF Offices or
or online tickets at www.rchs.us/biffstew

CONTACT:  RCHS 608-756-4509  BIFF 262-951-5066

MORE INFORMATION:   www.rchs.us/biffstew

Featured BIFF Film

The evening is topped off with the hilarious and poignant Irish comedy, The Van, starring Colm Meany in an outdoor setting featuring the BIFF 27′ inflatable movie screen, sponsored by First National Bank & Trust. Bring a lawn chair or blanket. In case of rain, the venue will be hosted indoors with limited seating available. Proceeds will support the quality programming of RCHS and BIFF in Rock County.

Guinness and Irish Coffee available at the cash bar!
No carry ins

Proceeds to support the Rock County Historical Society and the Beloit International Film Festival

Schedule:

5:00 – 7:00 p.m. Patrick and Gerard, famed Irish duo

7:30 p.m.  The Van starring Colm MeaneyCelebrated Irish comedy, part of Roddy Doyles  Barrytown Trilogy

The rest  of the BIFF Year Round Schedule

Sponsored by:

Kerry Ingredients Janesville Irish FestRock County Historical Society

 

The Breakfast Club @ Beloit College

Tuesday August 27th:  8:00 pm

The Beloit International Film Festival is continuing its summer film program, BIFF Outdoors, with a presentation of the classic 1985 film “The Breakfast Club” on Tuesday, August 27. The screening will be done in partnership with Beloit College, and will be a great way to welcome back returning students and give newly arrived first-year students the chance to see what the Beloit area has to offer in the way of entertainment.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dkX8J-FKndE

Huge inflatable outdoor screen

BIFF’s huge outdoor screen will be inflated in front of historic Middle College on the Beloit College campus at 700 College Street. The film is scheduled to begin shortly after sunset at 8PM. Lawn chairs and blankets are ideal for seating. Concessions will include water, soda, cookies, brownies, and assorted popcorn and will be on sale before and during the film. The rain date is set for the following day, Wednesday, August 28

The Breakfast Club

Opus Dog to perform

Before the showing of the film, the band Opus Dog will be performing original music and some popular covers. They have been described as being an Indie-folk band, but are influenced by a diverse range of musical styles: metal, Celtic music, Radiohead, and Journey just to name a few. The band is comprised of four Beloit College sophomores. Kirby Jayes is the band’s guitarist and vocalist. Lucy Holden plays violin, and Linden Holt is the band’s bassist. Cheyenne Kern is also a vocalist. The band will perform from 6:30pm to 7:30pm.

Sponsored by:

First National Bank & Trust

First National Bank & Trust

Call for Interns

Call for Interns!

The Beloit International Film Festival is now looking for interns! We have a variety of internships that offer hands-on experience in many fields of study. Come and expand your knowledge in marketing, graphic design, event planning, community development and many other subject areas!

“I LOVE BIFF! My experience interning at BIFF taught me so many great skills…

Kristy McClammer | BIFF Intern

Kristy McClammer, our Hospitality Intern, comments on her experience with the 2013 festival:

“I LOVE BIFF! My experience interning at BIFF taught me so many great skills and introduced me to amazing people. I learned so much, but had the most amazing time doing it. All of the hard work leading up to the festival really paid off when I got to meet the filmmakers and see them enjoy all of their hard work as well. I would highly recommend the BIFF internship!”

About Interning with BIFF

All internships require 8 to 10 hours a week and the Beloit International Film Festival will cooperate with educational institutions to help the interns gain college credit. The hour requirements increase during the week of the festival in late February. Internships are unpaid but include many festival perks and possible future employment.

How To Apply:

The Festival is proud to bring together a team of bright interns that delivers an enriching arts experience to our community. If you interested in an internship with us, contact Kristin Peterson, the Education Director, at Kristin@beloitfilmfest.org for more information.

Internships begin:

Most internships begin September 2013 and run until the end of the festival in February 2014.

Internships Available:

Below is a list of the duties for specific internships. Other internships are less structured, like the programming and research internships that focus on building the depth of a festival-goer’s experience.

  • Education Intern
    • Research children’s films, socially conscious films
      • Make list of contact information, title, year made, awards won
      • Invite contacts to submit through Without A Box
    • Gather school information: Principals, Auditoriums
    • Develop and Print materials for seminars, make PPs
    • Review/rate films and present to screening committees (SLU, JAIS)
    • Facilitate seminars/workshops
  • Media Intern (2 Interns requested)
    • Assist in Program Book design and manage website
    • Liaise with Photographers and Videographers
    • Craft and send Press Releases out to local and regional media outlets
    • Manage constant contacts and The Trailer during festival
    • Design and update social media campaigns
  • Community Partners/Conversations Intern
    • Making spreadsheet of local businesses and their possible interests
    • Invite Community Partners by mail, calling to follow up
    • Research possible Conversation Leaders and manage Conversations
    • Act as Community Partners’ contact during festival
  • Executive/Administrative & Special Events Intern
    • Assist Executive Director in administrative tasks
    • Act as Coordinator for Silent Film, Launch, Sing-A-Long and WI Showcase
    • Act as main contact for sponsors of special events
  • Wisconsin Showcase Intern
    • Make list of WI filmmaker contacts & invite to submit
    • Help organize & facilitate Showcase auxiliary events
    • Accumulate a list of and invite filmmaking related organizations to trade show
    • Act as hospitality contact for panelists
  • Volunteer Coordination Intern
    • Assist Volunteer Coordinator, Terri Burdick
  • Operations Intern
    • Assist Operations Director
    • Manage vault & make certain all accepted films’ discs are in the vault
  • Hospitality Intern
    • Liaise with accepted filmmakers, musicians, and panelists
    • Manage hospitality lounge – Help plan travel and stay arrangements
    • Transport filmmakers, panelists, & musicians during festival
  • BIFF + Music Intern
    • Assist BIFF + Music Coordinator in event operations and planning
    • Act as hospitality contact for musicians
  • Research, Programming and Development Interns
    • Work closely with the Executive Director and Education Director in:
      • Researching and attending other film festivals
      • Searching and inviting films to be included in the festivl
      • Developing new and innovative festival events and programs

MoneyBall Rain Date – Fri July 5th

biff

… not soon enough unfortunately.

So the grand opening of BIFF OUTDOORS will be delayed.

After consultation with Brian Ramsey and his staff at Parks and Leisure Services and consulting all the weather oracles, the wise decision  has been made to postpone this evenings presentation of MONEYBALL at Telfer Park.

The rain date is July 5 and we hope you will  be able to join us then.

If there is rain the film will be shown in the Edwards Ice Arena

BIFF Summer Program Flyer

BIFF Launches Summer Outdoor Film Series…

On a new screen

(NOTE: The screening of The Birds, Sat Oct. 5th has been canceled)

The Beloit International Film Festival will expand the area’s summer entertainment calendar and brighten the summer night skies with an outdoor film program offering something for every taste starting in June.

The new “BIFF Outdoors” program is made possible with the acquisition of a CineBox™ Pro outdoor movie system including a 20 foot-wide movie screen that can be inflated outdoors as well as inside in less than a minute. The screen was purchased by the Film Festival with a generous grant from the First National Bank of Beloit.

BIFF Inflatable Screen

Beloit, Rockton and Janesville Locations

The summer program will include free screenings of popular and classic films as well as selections from the rich BIFF archive of past favorites. Locations will include outdoor settings in Beloit, Rockton and Janesville throughout the balmy months of the year. The films will be presented by the Beloit International Film Festival and co-sponsors First National Bank, Beloit Parks and Leisure Services, Beloit College, Voight Music and the Rock County Historical Society.

Bushel and Peck's

BIFF Outdoors + BIFF Year-Round

“BIFF Outdoors brings great favorite films back in new settings that will be fun for every generation…and they are right in our own backyard,” says Monica Krysztopa, executive director of Visit Beloit. “Beloit is so rich with entertainment opportunities, especially in the summer, and BIFF Outdoors and the BIFF Year-Round films on Wednesday evenings at Bushel and Peck’s are great additions to that summer schedule.”

First National Bank is proud to be able to add this element to the summer entertainment schedule in the Beloit area in partnership with the Beloit International Film Festival,” says Steve Eldred, bank president. “This easily transportable screen and its related technology will provide quality family programs and can entertain up to 300 individuals spread out on blankets and augment the already rich and fun cultural life of Beloit.”

Download (PDF, 343KB)

MoneyballMoneyball

“BIFF Outdoors” will open Friday, June 28 at Telfer Park with a showing of the 2011 Oscar nominated baseball film “Moneyball.” The dramatic film, starring Brad Pitt, s about the Snapper’s major league partner, the Oakland Athletics, and the ‘A’s general manager Billy Beane’s successful attempt to assemble a baseball team on a lean budget.

AnnieAnnie |  Sing-along

A summer highlight will come on Wednesday, July 17, with a “sing-along” presentation of the 1982 family classic “Annie” in front of the Krueger Pool main entrance. The film will be presented with the words to the songs appearing at the bottom of the screen to allow the audience to join in the singing. “We are hoping that the audience will be packed with a lot of Annie lookalikes and more than a few Daddy Warbucks and Miss Hannigans,” says Brian Ramsey, director of parks & leisure services. “This is an immensely popular new film phenomenon designed to engage the whole audience.”

LincolnLincoln

Other special screenings will include the Oscar winning “Lincoln” at the Lincoln Tallman House at the Rock County Historical Society on August 17. It will be shown beneath the windows of the bedroom where the president slept during a campaign visit to the area in 1859.

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast Club

The cult classic “The Breakfast Club” starring the “Brat Pack” was selected by a majority of Beloit College students as the film they wanted to see on August 27 during their first week back on campus. The film, along with music from one of Beloit College’s top bands, will be seen in front of Middle College and will be the first of a series of “Movies at The Middle” at the College.

Karate KidKarate Kid

The irresistible 1984 martial arts film “Karate Kid” will be the September 14 offering and will be seen at the Old Settlers Park at the First National Bank office location in Rockton. This will be the original “Karate Kid” that inspired a generation of young martial artists to “wax on, wax off” as they learned that the secret to Karate lies in the mind and heart.

The Birds  (CANCELED)

The BirdsThe program will conclude Saturday, Oct. 5, with audiences screaming for more, or just screaming, with the presentation of the Alfred Hitchcock 1963 classic “The Birds.” And to make sure that this Halloween warm-up is a memorable evening, the film will be presented in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Janesville.

All films will begin at dusk and exact starting times will be announced closer to presentation. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged for seating, and concessions will be available.

Our Sponsors

First National Bank & Trust“BIFF is no longer a cold weather pastime,”, “With this wonderful support from Steve and Heidi Eldred and the First National Bank, and from Voigt Music, our exclusive sound reinforcement sponsor, we will be Voigt Musicable to offer entertainment in settings from cemeteries and city parks to the college campus and beyond. It fulfills our goal of providing something for everyone.”

BIFF Inflatable Screen

Summer Program of Free Family Films

Families are invited to bring chairs and blankets and to picnic before and during the films.

2013 BIFF Outdoors Linup:

Moneyball

R A I N – C A N C E L E D

MoneyballBIFF Outdoors will open at Telfer Park with a showing of the 2011 Oscar nominated baseball film “Moneyball.” The dramatic film, starring Brad Pitt, is about the Snapper’s major league partner, the Oakland Athletics, and the ‘A’s general manager Billy Beane’s successful attempt to assemble a baseball team on a lean budget.

  • Friday June 28th  R A I N – C A N C E L E D
  • 8:00 PM
  • Telfer Park, Beloit
  • Rain Date:  July 5th


View Larger Map

Annie Sing-Along

AnnieA summer highlight will come with a “sing-along” presentation of the 1982 family classic “Annie”. The film will be presented with the words to the songs appearing at the bottom of the screen to allow the audience to join in the singing. We will be packed with a lot of Annie lookalikes and more than a few Daddy Warbucks and Miss Hannigans” says Brian Ramsey, Director of Parks & Leisure Services. “This is an immensely popular new film phenomenon designed to engage the entire audience.”

  • Wednesday July 17th
  • 8:00 PM
  • Krueger Pool, Beloit
  • Rain Date:  July 18th


View Larger Map

Lincoln

LincolnJoin BIFF@Janesville presenting sponsor RCHS for a special screening of the Oscar winning “Lincoln” at the Lincoln Tallman House It will be shown beneath the windows of the bedroom where the president slept during a campaign visit to the area in 1859.

  • Saturday August 17th
  • 8:00 PM
  • Rock County Historical Society, Janesville
  • Rain Date:  Sunday August 18th


View Larger Map

The Breakfast Club

The Breakfast ClubThe cult classic “The Breakfast Club” starring the “Brat Pack” was selected by a majority of Beloit College students as the film they wanted to see on August 27th during their first week back on campus. The film, along with music from one of Beloit College’s top bands, will be seen in front of Middle College and will be the first of a series of “Movies at The Middle” at the College.

  • Tuesday August 27th
  • 6:30 PM
  • Middle College, Beloit College Campus
  • Rain Date:  Wednesday August 28th


View Larger Map

Karate Kid

Karate KidThe irresistible 1984 martial arts film “Karate Kid” will be the September 14th offering and will be seen at the Old Settlers Park across the street from the First National Bank office location in Rockton. This will be the original “Karate Kid” that inspired a generation of young martial artists to “wax on, wax off” they learned that the secret of Karate lies in the mind and heart.

  • Saturday September 14th
  • 8:00 PM
  • Old Settlers Park, Rockton
  • Rain Date: Sunday September 15th


View Larger Map

The Birds – Alfred Hitchcock

The BirdsThe program will conclude Saturday, October 5th with audiences screaming for more, or just screaming, with the presentation of the Alfred Hitchcock 1963 classic “The Birds.” And to make sure that this Halloween warm-up is a memorable
evening, the film will be presented in the Oak Hill cemetery in Janesville.

  • Saturday October 5th
  • 8:00 PM
  • Oak Hill Cemetery, Janesville
  • Rain Date:  Sunday October 6th


View Larger Map

Presenting Sponsor

First National Bank & TrustBIFF Outdoors is made possible by the generous sponsorship of First National Bank & Trust

Sound/Audio Sponsor

Voigt Music

BIFF Inflatable Screen

Embargoed

The Beloit International Film Festival will expand the area’s summer entertainment calendar and brighten the summer night skies with an outdoor film program offering something for every taste starting in June.

The new “BIFF Outdoors” program is made possible with the acquisition of a CineBox™ Pro outdoor movie system including a 20 foot-wide movie screen that can be inflated outdoors as well as inside in less than a minute. The screen was purchased by the Film Festival with a generous grant from the First National Bank of Beloit.

The summer program will include free screenings of popular and classic films as well as selections from the rich BIFF archive of past favorites. Locations will include outdoor settings in Beloit, Rockton and Janesville throughout the balmy months of the year. The films will be presented by the Beloit International Film Festival and co-sponsors First National Bank, Beloit Parks and Leisure Services, Beloit College, Voight Music and the Rock County Historical Society.

“BIFF Outdoors brings great favorite films back in new settings that will be fun for every generation…and they are right in our own backyard,” says Monica Krysztopa, executive director of Visit Beloit. “Beloit is so rich with entertainment opportunities, especially in the summer, and BIFF Outdoors and the BIFF Year-Round films on Wednesday evenings at Bushel and Peck’s are great additions to that summer schedule.”

“First National Bank is proud to be able to add this element to the summer entertainment schedule in the Beloit area in partnership with the Beloit International Film Festival,” says Steve Eldred, bank president. “This easily transportable screen and its related technology will provide quality family programs and can entertain up to 300 individuals spread out on blankets and augment the already rich and fun cultural life of Beloit.”

“BIFF Outdoors” will open Friday, June 28 at Telfer Park with a showing of the 2011 Oscar nominated baseball film “Moneyball.” The dramatic film, starring Brad Pitt, is about the Snapper’s major league partner, the Oakland Athletics, and the ‘A’s general manager Billy Beane’s successful attempt to assemble a baseball team on a lean budget.

A summer highlight will come on Wednesday, July 17, with a “sing-along” presentation of the 1982 family classic “Annie” in front of the Krueger Pool main entrance. The film will be presented with the words to the songs appearing at the bottom of the screen to allow the audience to join in the singing. “We are hoping that the audience will be packed with a lot of Annie lookalikes and more than a few Daddy Warbucks and Miss Hannigans,” says Brian Ramsey, director of parks & leisure services.  “This is an immensely popular new film phenomenon designed to engage the whole audience.”

Other special screenings will include the Oscar winning “Lincoln” at the Lincoln Tallman House at the Rock County Historical Society on August 17. It will be shown beneath the windows of the bedroom where the president slept during a campaign visit to the area in 1859.

The cult classic “The Breakfast Club” starring the “Brat Pack” was selected by a majority of Beloit College students as the film they wanted to see on August 27 during their first week back on campus.  The film, along with music from one of Beloit College’s top bands, will be seen in front of Middle College and will be the first of a series of “Movies at The Middle” at the College.

The irresistible 1984 martial arts film “Karate Kid” will be the September 14 offering and will be seen at the Old Settlers Park at the First National Bank office location in Rockton.  This will be the original “Karate Kid” that inspired a generation of young martial artists to “wax on, wax off” as they learned that the secret to Karate lies in the mind and heart.

The program will conclude Saturday, Oct. 5, with audiences screaming for more, or just screaming, with the presentation of the Alfred Hitchcock 1963 classic “The Birds.” And to make sure that this Halloween warm-up is a memorable evening, the film will be presented in the Oak Hill Cemetery in Janesville.

All films will begin at dusk and exact starting times will be announced closer to presentation. Lawn chairs and blankets are encouraged for seating, and concessions will be available.

“BIFF is no longer a cold weather pastime,”, “With this wonderful support from Steve and Heidi Eldred and the First National Bank, and from Voigt Music, our exclusive sound reinforcement sponsor, we will be able to offer entertainment in settings from cemeteries and city parks to the college campus and beyond. It fulfills our goal of providing something for everyone.”

BIFF Year Round

BIFF Year-Round Starts May 1st.

… AT BUSHEL AND PECK’S

Bushel & Pecks Local Market | Beloit WIIf you couldn’t get into some of the most popular films in February, or if viewing them once was just not enough, then Wednesday nights at Bushel and Peck’s Local Market are just what you have been waiting for.

Starting Wednesday, May 1, and running through the end of June, the best independent films from past Beloit International Film Festivals will be screened each Wednesday evening at 6 p.m. at Bushel and Peck’s. In addition, there will be a special dinner-and-a-movie Friday evening double feature with two BIFF culinary favorites on Friday, May 17.

Admission

  • $5 — General Admission
  • $2 — Students and children
  • FREE — Beloit Film Society Members

Films Presented

The films, all BIFF award winners and audience favorites, will be presented in the high definition facilities in the Bushel and Peck BIFF screening room. “Jackie has installed one of the best screening facilities in the region in her screening room,”, “The sound and the visual projection are outstanding and BIFF is pleased to have created this Year-Round relationship with one of BIFF’s prime venue owners.”

BIFF Year-Round opens its spring season on May 1 with a screening of the feature length comedy, “Lutefisk Wars.” The BIFF award-winning film, which sold out repeatedly during the 2012 BIFF puts an innocent rural frozen food delivery man in the middle of an ancient feud between two Norwegian Mafia Families.

Film schedule

  • Wednesday, May 1  |  “Lutefisk Wars” (6 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, May 8  | “The Devil’s Tale” (6 p.m.)

The Devil’s Tale Website

Film Synopsis:

When Eddie disappears in the Yucatan, Pete abandons his comfortable life in Toronto to search for his lifelong best friend, a charming Texas ne’er-do-well. Arriving in Mexico with his girlfriend Zoe and pal Dave, they discover a world that is deeper and darker than any tourist image of Cancun.

As the hunt progresses, Pete encounters old love Kate who is now Eddie’s girlfriend. Meanwhile, several local Mexicans disappeared at the same time as Eddie – a fact noticed by a popular barfly who befriends Pete – who also happens to be retired Texas Border Patrol. Eddie’s sudden reappearance only adds to the puzzle as he deflects all questions by distracting them with Southern charm and promise of local adventures. And with Eddie’s return, Pete must reluctantly relinquish his role of savior for Kate, who has blinders on to their real circumstances. With this, Pete learns there is more than one way to “disappear” and a startling discovery uncovers more about his past and his former friend than he can bear.

All this set against the glorious backdrop of Mayan Ruins, stunning beaches, underground rivers and a beautiful country wrestling with its history of racism and its convoluted relationship with “Norteamericanos”. The overall effect is of a complicated, character driven dramatic thriller tempered by the possibility of personal redemption.

  • Wednesday, May 15  |  “Cafeteria Man” (6 p.m.)

Cafeteria Man Website

Film Synopsis:

Cafeteria Man is the true story of rebel chef Tony Geraci and his mission to radically reform Baltimore’s public school food system with a recipe for change.

  • Friday, May 17 — Double Feature  |  “Fish Fry Friday Night” (now “Fish Fry Night Milwaukee”) and “Comeback: The Wisconsin Beer Movie” (7 p.m.)

Fish Fry Night Milwaukee Website

The Friday night fish fry has been a Wisconsin family tradition for many years. It happens all year long, not only during Lent when Catholics don’t eat meat on Fridays. “Fish Fry Night Milwaukee” is a film that takes you to some of Milwaukee’s most popular, historic and unique fish fry places, to see the people who make them and enjoy them.

Comeback:  The Wisconsin Beer Movie Website

No one honors beer and brewers like Wisconsin. And for good reason. Since 1893, Wisconsin brewers have set the standard; for a century they were the collective giant to beat. Names like Miller, Pabst, Potosi, Schlitz, and Blatz were as big in the world as Guiness.

But even these brewers, the ones that would emerge as giants, started much smaller in a time when beer was not mass-produced—but crafted with diligence and care. In Wisconsin’s brewing heyday, hundreds of brewers plied their craft—nearly one in every community—with equal or better quality than the mega brewers. But few could compete with the sexy appeal of modern science.

Technology and mechanization became the driving brewing machine. The climate became increasingly competitive and cut throat. Eventually, big brewers were willing to employ any means necessary to maximize profits.

  • Wednesday, May 22  |  “America the Beautiful” (6 p.m.)

America The Beautiful Website

In a society where “celebutantes” like Paris Hilton dominate newsstands and models who weigh less than 90 pounds die from malnutrition, female body image is one of the more dire problems facing today’s society. “America the Beautiful” illuminates the issue by covering every base. Child models, plastic surgery, celebrity worship, airbrushed advertising, dangerous cosmetics – no rock is left unturned. Written by samantha urban

  • Wednesday, May 29  | “Johnny’s Gone” (6 p.m.)

http://youtu.be/GKcuSbUzEww

Johnny’s Gone Facebook Page

Winner of 8 awards and 4 nominations. An American Odyssey. From California to the Bayou looking for a place to call home. Directed by Giorgio Serafini. Written by LaDon Drummond & Giorgio. Produced by Giuseppe Pedersoli & Jack Laveau.

Plot Outline

An American Odyssey.
We really don’t want to give away the plot at this point. It’s a drama. It’s funny at times. It’s very close to our hearts. We hope you will like it.

  • Wednesday, June 5  | “Artois The Goat” (6 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, June 12  | “A Lonely Place For Dying” (6 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, June 19  | “Azooma” (6 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, June 26  | “Fight or Flight” (6 p.m.)
  • Saturday, October 12  |  MUSICAL SING ALONG — TBD

 

And mark calendars now for a special event this fall on Saturday, October 12, when the fall season of BIFF Year-Round will resume with a special musical film sing-along. The film selection will be announced this summer.