Black Bear Film Festivals’ Salon gets first peek at new Milford Library
MILFORD — The 2013 Black Bear Film Festivals’ Film Salon attendees will get a first look inside the newly-built Milford Library, located at 119 E. Harford St. in Milford on Saturday, Oct. 19 and Sunday, Oct. 20. Ten films will be screened and a number of producers, directors and special guests will be in attendance for these films, giving festival-goers an up close and personal look at each movie.
The Black Bear Film Salon is a free event that is open to the public. Its purpose is to showcase cutting-edge short films, socially conscious documentaries, student-made films, guest lecturers, and engaging discussions about the filmmaking process. This year’s Film Salon highlights the importance of education and will feature selections from recent NYU Film School graduates, and local high school and freshman-year college students.
“We were very excited that the Milford Library opened its doors for us,” said Jerry Beaver, Founding President of the Black Bear Film Festival. “Each year, we celebrate a different venue around Milford just as much as the films we show there. Being able to give people a first look at such a gem in our community is an honor. And, ultimately, witnessing the talent and dedication of so many young filmmakers adds an inspiring element to an already fantastic weekend.”
The Salon is hosted in the library’s Community Room, which is located at the rear entrance of the building, or accessible by the elevator on the main floor.
2013 Black Bear Film Salon Schedule
Saturday, Oct. 19
10:30 to 11 a.m. — Young Amateur Filmmakers Forum
The Salon’s annual presentation features films made by middle school, high school, and freshman-year college students.
Beautiful People Falling Down Stairs – Directed by Matt Michaud and Ryan Kupersmith (Ithaca College)
Not Quite Finished – Directed by Nick Callais (Manheim Township High School)
The Mystic Bracelet – Directed by Jeremy Block (Delaware Valley High School)
11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. — Phonograph Conversations, Directed by Nick Pavone
“Phonograph Conversations” explores the roots of early recording techniques and shares current thoughts, ideas, and facts never expressed before to the public about the history of recorded sound.
Introduction and Q&A with director Nick Pavone, who will host a live demonstration of early recording equipment
12:30 to 2:30 p.m. — The Atomic States of America, Directed by Don Argott and Sheena M. Joyce
“The Atomic States of America” is a documentary on growing up in Shirley, Long Island – a nuclear-reactor community – and the exploration of the history and impact of nuclear power.
Introduction and Q&A with Kelly McMasters, author of “Welcome to Shirley: A Memoir from an Atomic Town”
2:30 to 4 p.m. — NYU Undergraduate Filmmakers Program 1
Nine graduates from the NYU Film School will present their short films.
Desert Hopes – Directed by Michael Patten
The Graveyard Shift – Directed by Jessica Burgess
Able – Directed by Patricia Gillespie
Culling Hens – Directed by Alex Loeb
Being Mr. Kensington – Directed by Chris Marks
Introduction and Q&A with the filmmakers. Also in attendance: David Irving – Associate Professor, NYU Film School
4 to 5 p.m. — Bloopers, Secrets, and Surprises in Classic Hollywood Movies: A Special Presentation by author John DiLeo
Five-time film-book author John DiLeo returns to the Salon with a companion program to the 2013 publication of the revised edition of his first book, “And You Thought You Knew Classic Movies!”
5 to 7 p.m. — One Wall: Kings of Coney Island, Directed by Joe Glickman
Handball is the ultimate city game. Played at the highest level, it can be both beautiful and brutal. “One Wall” follows the most talented athletes you’ve never heard of as they vie for the coveted title: King of Coney Island.
Introduction and Q&A with producer Michael Inglesh
Sunday, Oct. 20:
Noon to 12:30 p.m. — 3 Experimental Films by Andrew Keiper
Mind-bending short films that explore the relationship between light and darkness, sound and silence.
12:30 to 2 p.m. — NYU Undergraduate Filmmakers Program 2
A Black Bear Film Salon First! Nine of the finest graduates from the NYU Film School will present their bold, innovative short films.
Old Monster – Directed by Kevin Clark Ryan
Monday, Monday – Directed by Eric Yue
Abigail – Directed by Matthew James Reilly
The Giant – Directed by David Raboy
Introduction and Q&A with the filmmakers. Also in attendance: David Irving – Associate Professor, NYU Film School
2 to 4 p.m. — Trial By Fire: Lives Re-Forged, Directed by Megan Smith-Harris
“Trial By Fire” chronicles the inspirational and surprising journeys of seven burn survivors before and after the harrowing accidents that forever changed their lives. When you forge metal with fire it becomes stronger – it turns out the same is true of the human spirit.
Introduction and Q&A with local artist and film participant John Capanna
4 to 6 p.m. — Triple Divide, Directed by J.B. Pribanic and M.A. Troutman
Actor Mark Ruffalo co-narrates this salient documentary that attempts to answer the question, “How are state regulations and industry handling impacts from fracking?”
Post-Screening Fracking Forum featuring members of Damascus Citizens for Sustainability and other TBA local environmental activists
For more information about Black Bear Film Salon and Festival, the films, or to buy tickets, visit www.BlackBearFilm.com.