a film festival...

Last night I went to a Film Festival by New Filmakers Los Angeles, what I'm sure will be the first of many film festivals for me here in LA.  

One of the things I like about festivals, and screenings, is that you often get to hear from the creators of the piece (another thing is that they often come with open bars and free goodies).  In this case the writers/directors came forward to discuss what sparked their original idea, and how it grew into what we saw.  

With festivals often presenting a variety of genres it's inevitable that there will be some pieces you don't care for.  Hearing the creators explain the background often helps to shed a new light on films you might have disliked otherwise; for me, these included: Abduction,  King Eternal, and  Lialou.

However, rather than discussing ones I didn't care for, here are my favorites.

Here are the films, and filmmakers, you should look out for.

Mediation by Francisco Lorite

Have you ever been through a divorce? Known someone who has? If the answer to either is yes it is easy to see how this whole situation could arise.  Hell, divorce aside, if you have ever lived through the roller coaster of love you want to see this film!  Also, can't wait to see what Francisco Lorite brings forth in the years to come!

Drone Strike by Chris Richmond & Mike Sedgwick

For all of the arguing and politicizing that occurs over the issue of drones, this piece provides a different perspective, the individual that serves as the drone pilot.  The individual who goes to work, forever changes the life of a family on the other side of the world, then returns home to ask his children about their day.  A must see for anyone voicing an opinion on drones.

Present Trauma by Mark Manalo

People go off to war then  come home to their families and life goes on. It's a story almost as old as the world itself; only the return doesn't always go smoothly.  Sometimes the reality is that people go to war and then they never completely return. A piece of them stays lost in the war forever, with memories haunting them for the rest of their lives.  This story will resonate with anyone who has ever known a soldier, but for those who have known a haunted person, the film may  show you your greatest fears. Hopefully, it will also help you see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Next up on my exploration...volunteering at the Downtown Women's Center...a lunch with ladies...