14th Annual International Family Film Festival

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

Tuesday, March 10, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

THE IFFF 2009AWARD WINNERS

It reads like a comedy but this time, the real story surpasses any possible reel version and everyone is truly a winner…

FADE IN:

INT. COCO’S RESTAURANT – NIGHT

SUPER: Valencia, CA 1993

Two couples sip coffee over earnest discussion of the gratuitous violence in films and the effect it has on America, specifically our children. There must be something more the film industry can offer besides bombs, guns, knives and snakes on a plane. They thirst for good stories with universal themes that connect all humanity, stories from the heartbreaking, to the heartwarming, stories with humor and weight, films the whole family can enjoy. Knowing there must be like minds who also desire quality entertainment, they each pledge $20.00 to begin a film festival.

EXT. INTERNATIONAL FAMILY FILM FESTIVAL - DAY

SUPER: Valencia, CA 1994

Distributers, producers, directors, cast & crew, kids and lovers of the family film genre enjoy the first annual International Family Film Festival - just two months after the devastating Northridge Earthquake. The IFFF is well on its’ way to fulfilling its’ mission: To educate, cultivate, and elevate the family film genre by advocating and encouraging the creation and sharing of family films and screenplays through film exhibition, panels, networking, screenplay readings, children’s hands-on film camps, seminars and post-film discussions.

At age 89 and very shy, Isadore “Friz” Freleng (Head Animator at Warner Bros) arrives to receive the first ever IFFF Lifetime Achievement Award for Excellence in Film Animation. The award becomes his namesake when Friz makes his transition just two weeks later.

INT. CHARLIE CHAPLIN THEATER, RALEIGH STUDIOS – NIGHT

SUPER: Hollywood, CA 2009 - Great Stories Bring Families Together

It’s Awards Night at the IFFF. Film-chic patrons and filmmakers mingle in celebration of the IFFF’s 14th year and to find out who will receive the coveted film awards of the evening; as well as the top honors designed by Schlomi Haziza/H. Studio. The guest of honor, Phil Roman, arrives in a yellow Hummer (symbolizing the infamous character Bart Simpson from one of Roman’s hit TV series, The Simpsons). He will be introduced by Nancy Cartwright, the voice-actor who plays Bart. The Chaplin Theatre is filled to capacity, buzzing with anticipation. And the IFFF goes to:

TOP HONORS

THE ‘FRIZ’ LIFETIME ACHEIVEMENT AWARD – Phil Roman

IFFF FILM EXCELLENCE AWARD – 20th Century Fox, Jeffery Glaser

IFFF DIRECTORS GOLD AWARD – Magellan, Sebastian Davis Director/Screenwriter

IFFF SPIRIT AWARD – Invisible Wings (China), Feng Zhenzhi Director/Screenwriter

TOP APPLAUSE AWARD – Dreamriders, William S. Roulston Director

FEATURES

BEST DRAMA – The Dark Horse, Cornelia Moore Director/Screenwriter

BEST FOREIGN DRAMA – Saving God (Canada), Duane Crighton Director

BEST COMEDY- The Video Guys, Dan Brennan Director/Screenwriter

BEST FOREIGN COMEDY – Summerhood (Canada), Jacob Medjuck

BEST DOCUMENTARY – Some Assembly Required, Dori Berinstein Director/Screenwriter

BEST FOREIGN DOCUMENTARY – pujee (Japan/Mongolia), Kazuiya Yamada

BEST EDUCATIONAL – Dreamriders, William S. Roulston Director

BEST CHILD ACTOR – Sabrina Brennan in The Video Guys

SHORTS

BEST DRAMA – boy/man, Danielle Jacobs & Ben Staley Director/Producer/Screenwriter

BEST FOREIGN DRAMA – Land Gewinnen (Germany) Marc Brummund Director

BEST COMEDY – The Day My Parents Became Cool, Steve Edmiston & Peter Weinstein Director/Screenwriter

BEST COMPUTER ANIMATION – Gerald’s Last Day, Justin & Shel Rasch Directors/Screenwriters

BEST FOREIGN COMPUTER ANIMATION – Jibber Jabber: Race to the Red Planet (Canada), David Bowes Director

BEST CLASSIC ANIMATION – The Girl Who Cried Flowers, Umesh Shukla & Kate Myers Director

BEST DOCUMENTARY – Sing Opera! Jessica Sanders, Frieda Mock Director/Producer/Screenwriter

BEST EDUCATIONAL – The Riddle in a Bottle, Robert & Laura Sams Directors/Producers

BEST PSA – Discovery Science Center, Chris Pyle Director

BEST MUSICAL – Hey You! Alyson Alyson Filmmaker

STUDENT

BEST DRAMA – Magellan, Sebastian Davis Director/Screenwriter

BEST FOREIGN DRAMA – My Dad Ralph (Canada), Nicholas Wong Director/Screenwriter

BEST COMEDY – Latter Day Fake, Jolie Hales Director/Screenwriter

BEST COMPUTER ANIMATION – La Lune, Kyung Hee Shon Director/Screenwriter/Producer/Animator

BEST CLASSIC ANIMATION – Plain & Simple, Merrin Marra, Joe Luis Marra Director/Screenwriter/Producer/Animator

BEST DOCUMENTARY – Riding Tall: A Horse Connection, Caitlin Mae Burke Director/Screenwriter/Producer

BEST EDUCATIONAL – Roots and Wings, Angad Singh Director/Producer/Editor

SCREENPLAYS

FEATURE DRAMA - First Dog by Bryan Michael Stoller

FEATURE COMEDY – G-pa by Gary & Carolyn Mosier

FEATURE ANIMATION – Tickled Pink by Catherine Wilson

FEATURE SCI-FI/FANTASY – Alphonse Doodle, Boy Wonder, by Milton Reiss

FEATURE MUSICAL – Alphie Brubaker by Joyce Ikemi

SHORT DRAMA – Hampton Court – Hunting Party by James Kirtland

SHORT COMEDY – Barack-O-Lantern by Christopher C. Canole

SHORT ANIMATION – Toucan You Can by Donna Lisa

SHORT SCI-FI/FANTASY – The Cube by Scott and Paula Merrow

EBAY AUCTION

The winners of the on-line auction are: The Video Guys, Dan Brennan Director/Screenwriter - Silly Sister Productions and The Gold and the Beautiful, Agnes Nicole Winter Producer/ Screenwriter/Actor - Global Star Films. PRIZES: Film trailer screened before each film, a full page advertisement in IFFF’s official program book and inclusion on the 2009 IFFF Promo Reel.

SPONSORS OF THE IFFF

PLATINUM: Target, Apple Graphics, Raleigh Studios, Schlomi Haziza/H. Studio, Ford Company, LA County Arts Commission, Digital Blue; GOLD: Hollywood Chamber of Commerce, CCI Releasing, Girlie Nails; SILVER: Freshi Films LLC, Withoutabox.com, Family Magazine Group; FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL: Holiday Inn Express Walk of Fame, Sheraton Universal Hotel, Gorilla Software, Creative Handbook, Ca’ del Sole Ristorante, Final Draft, Sunset Marquis Hotel and Villas, Intercut Magazine; FILM SPONSORS: Dreamriders, The Video Guys, The Gold and the Beautiful and Glenn Finnan (Composer).

THAT’S A WRAP!

This year’s festival marked an industry achievement with the introduction of the IFFF Ratings System: CH (Children 12 and under), GA (General Audience) and MA (Mature Audience). In addition, each winning film and screenplay will receive the coveted IFFF Winner Seal and the Finalist Seal for their future publicity use. Co-Founder & Executive Director Chris Shoemaker, Co-Founder & Development Director, Suzanne Shoemaker and Co-Founder & Program Director, Patte Dee McKee want to thank each and every supporter of the Family Film Genre who made the IFFF 2009 possible. We’ll see you next year at IFFF’s milestone 15th Anniversary, Raleigh Studios-Hollywood, February 2010!

FADE OUT.

JOIN IFFF - The IFFF depends on sponsorship, generous donations from the public and the membership of filmmakers, screenwriters and supporters of the family film genre. Please take this opportunity to support the next generation of storytellers by becoming a member. For only $35.00 you’ll receive year-long discounts.

POSTINGS - Everything from Membership to next year’s Call for Entries to this year’s Press Releases, Films, Screenplays, Sponsors, Events and Special Appearances appear on the website. Be sure and check in often at www.iffilmfest.org!

OUR MISSION – The International Family Film Festival promotes socially responsible films made world-wide by emerging independent filmmakers, as well as established studios, that are suitable for a general audience and express a fundamental respect for the positive values of life and the universal human experiences that connect us all.

THE END

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

The 2009 International Family Film Festival

YOU CAN’T AFFORD TO MISS IT!

The International Family Film Festival opens this Thursday, February 26, 2009, 7:00PM at the world famous Raleigh Studios, 5300 Melrose Avenue in Hollywood!

IFFF patrons can chose from a record number of shorts and features, in every genre, representing 23 countries, 24 states and 29 film schools. To insure there is something for everyone, IFFF has introduced film ratings of: Children 12 and Under (CH), General Audience (GA) and Mature Audience (MA). At $10.00 per film or $40.00 for an all-day-screening-pass, seeing top notch films at the IFFF are definitely doable. Become a member of IFFF and get even greater savings!

OPENING NIGHT

IFFF Opening Night Screenings - The films chosen for this coveted placement are Cop Dog, John Murlowski, director; Super Capers, Ray Griggs, director; Dark Horse, Cornelia Moore, director. Opening Night promises to be a wonderful evening of films with both humor and heart that illustrate this year’s IFFF theme, Great Stories Bring Families Together.

IFFF Opening Night Reception - A film-chic party follows the screenings at 9:00PM in the Raleigh Studious’ Cantina.

IFFF Going Green - The Ford Company will be displaying two of their 2010 ‘Green’ cars adjacent to the IFFF Reception Tent. Pick-up your festival tickets in the tent and then go back to the future with Ford!

FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS AT-A-GLANCE

Thurs. February 26 Opening Night Screenings 7:00PM $15.00

Opening Night Reception 9:00PM _____

Fri. February 27 Studio Location Tour Raleigh Studios 11:00-1PM $10.00

__________________Animation Panel with Phil Roman 1:00-3PM $15.00

Sat. February 28 Screenwriters/Family Films Sponsor: Final Draft 11:00AM $15.00

Producers on Family Films Industry Panel 2:00PM $15.00

Screenwriters Showcase Awards Ceremony 4:00PM $15.00

Screenwriters Awards Reception 6:30PM _____

Sun. March 1 IFFF Networking Brunch Members & Guests 9:00-11AM $10.00

Distributors on Family Films Industry Panel 10:00-11:30 $15.00

IFFF Awards Ceremony All Awards Given 6:30PM $75.00

IFFF Awards Dinner Guest and Honorees 8:30PM___________

MUSIC AT THE IFFF

Saint Tone is all about Positive Rock!

Based in Tampa, FL, Saint Tone is a mix of high energy classic, melodic pop with contemporary acoustic rock influences. Singer/songwriter Tony St. Tone is a full time musician who has toured around the world and is a natural on stage. Writing positive, inspirational lyrics and universal subjects about relationships, Saint Tone connects with audiences easily. With 12 releases to his name, Tony is in the studio recording his 13th CD "World Radio 13" due out in 2009.

Saint Tone is not a religious band. Tony states, “Religion seems to separate people through their beliefs and spirituality seems to unite (them). I like writing songs that have to do with self empowerment and uniting our similarities."

Supporting Tony St. Tone’s new CD live are David Scott Gilman on guitar, Bela Wurtzler on bass, keith S on guitar, Chris Tevere on drums, Ben Zac on keys, and Janie Tevere on backing vocals. We also have Mick Weick as our soundman who has worked with everyone and is currently working with Tim McGraw. Check them out in Raleigh’s infamous Cantina Café:

At the Travel Channel’s Reception for Dreamriders (5pm Screening), Friday, Feb 27th at 7PM.

At the Screenwriters Showcase Reception, Saturday February 28th at 6:30 following the Screenwriters Showcase & Awards Ceremony at 4PM.

And later that night, rock out at The Gold and the Beautiful (6:30pm Screening) reception at 8:30PM.

Arnold G: Socially Aware Songs

Performing for the IFFF Awards Ceremony March 1st at 7:00PM is pop sensation Arnold G.

This Hollywood up-and-comer has been recognized from the leaders in the music industry, including being on the Billboard Charts as well as the Grammy's (two years in a row.) Arnold debuted with his song, "Driven Straight to the Dance Floor," and hit the dance chart's Top 40 and even reaching #1! As a performer he has been a part of shows at Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, AVALON in Hollywood, California, MGM Grand in Las Vegas, just to name a few. Arnold also toured internationally in Prague, Germany, Budapest and Canada with over 1,000 plus viewers. Now you can experience the Real Arnold G! The Singer; The Dancer; The Ringleader. Madonna did it for her audience in the 80's, and now, Arnold G. is the only male artist to re-create what Madonna did in the past! You’ve never seen a male entertainer like him.

There are a few socially aware songs on the Driven Beyond (CD) including the pop-flavored "Carry On," which highlights the importance of AIDS awareness. A special DVD will accompany the track which includes a video montage of lives lost over the years. A portion of the proceeds from the upcoming singles will be donated to groups involved in AIDS awareness education programs. Moreover, other strong messages are sent through "Our Rainbow" (hate crimes), "Angel Eyes" (crystal meth) and "I'm Free" (coping & life challenges). “I drive for depth and passion. I drive for faith and emotion. I drive for love and diversity.” Arnold G.

CLOSING NIGHT

The IFFF culminates March 1st at 6:30PM with the red-carpet IFFF Awards Ceremony & Banquet. IFFF chooses finalists from a record number of submissions in the categories of Best Feature Film, Best Short Film and Best Student Short Film. Winners in Best Drama, Comedy, Documentary, Educational, Animation (Computer), Animation (Classic) and Musicals are announced. In this stellar event, not only are the best-of-the-fest shorts and features revealed, but special industry recognition certificates are bestowed: the IFFF Spirit Award, IFFF Directors Gold Award, and the Top Applause Award (audience votes).

The highest honor of the evening, the Friz Award (named for legendary animator Friz Freleng) for Lifetime Achievement in Family Film will be awarded to animator/director/ producer Phil Roman for Excellence in Animation & Visual Effects. Presenting this award will be Nancy Cartwright, the actress behind the mischievous voice of Bart Simpson and other characters.

The evening ends with an elegant banquet served in the Cantina. And that’s a wrap!

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JOIN IFFF - The IFFF depends on sponsorship, generous donations from the public and the membership of filmmakers, screenwriters and lovers of the family film genre. Please take this opportunity to support the next generation of storytellers by becoming a member at www.iffilmfest.org. $35.00 gives you with a 20% discount on all tickets and events!

TICKETS - Tickets range from $10.00 per screening or event, $40.00 for an All-Day Screening Pass (does not include Special Events), to $250.00 for an All-Festival Pass. Tickets can be purchased through PayPal at www.iffilmfest.org, or call 661.257.3131. Seating is limited, so reserve your seats now!

THE MISSION - The International Family Film Festival was designed to educate, cultivate, and elevate the family film genre by advocating and encouraging the creation and sharing of family film and screenplay product through film exhibition, professional and children’s hands-on film camps, seminars and post-film discussions.

NEXT-GEN FILMMAKERS - Each day at IFFF begins at 10AM with Free Screenings for Public School children of films made-by-kids-for-kids. Contact info@ifflimfest.org to plan your class field trip today! Saturday February 28th is traditionally Family Day at the festival. Unlike the weekdays, films appropriate to a younger audience are screened all day long. Special hands-on workshops are offered at the Freshi Roadshow, IFFF’s traveling introduction to filmmaking for young filmmakers. Kids get a camera, lanyard and access to the lot to shoot their movie. Participants will also receive a copy of Intercut, The Magazine for Next-Gen Filmmakers.

POSTINGS - Everything from films, screenplays, sponsors, events and special appearances are added to the website daily. Be sure and check in often for constant updates at www.iffilmfest.org.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

Friday, February 20, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

The International Family Film Festival

Honors Animator Mogul, Phil Roman

On March 1, 2009 at the famous Raleigh Studios in Hollywood, the International Family Film Festival will present the Lifetime Achievement Award in Film, affectionately known as the “Friz” Award (named for legendary animator, Friz Freleng), to nimator, director and producer Phil Roman, for his Excellence in Animation & Visual Effects. Presenting this prestigious award at the red-carpet IFFF Awards Ceremony & Banquet Sunday evening is Nancy Cartwright, the dynamic voice actor behind ‘Bart Simpson’.

When reflecting on his humble beginnings, Phil shared that he was born of Mexican parents at the dawn of the depression and drew no barriers between people, “We all (different races) lived in the same neighborhood. There was no bigotry because, everyone was poor.” This level playing ground allowed Roman to excel. From a love of books which sparked his imagination, to seeing his first Disney film, “Bambi” at age 11, he knew animation was his calling. A self-starter, he took a correspondence course taught by Charles “Sparky” Schulz, on whose classic series, “Peanuts“, he would later work.

After high school, with only $60.00 in his pocket, Roman got on the bus to LA to follow his dreams. He went to the only school that offered animation classes, became a work-study student to help pay his tuition and held down a job as a movie usher at night. When the Korean War erupted, Roman served his country, then later returned to the Hollywood Art Center School to resume his studies under the GI Bill. The rest, as they say, is history.

From getting his first job as an assistant animator on Disney’s “Sleeping Beauty”, to producing “Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm” (USA Network), Roman has had a masterful hand in some of the most successful projects of our time: “Peanuts” and “Garfield” Features and TV Specials; “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas”; “Tom and Jerry: The Movie”; as well contemporary TV shows like “The Simpsons”; “King of the Hill”; “Bobby’s World “with Howie Mandel; “Bruno the Kid” with Bruce Willis; and C-Bear and Jamal” with rap artist, Ton Loc; and many more.

6 Emmys later, one is struck by the fact that all of the projects Roman has taken under his wing or has developed have either retained their original “it” factor or are all deliciously unique and distinctive. “The directors’ job is to be true to the creator, use the strengths already inherent in the project.” How refreshing to hear in a day and age when most networks and studios buy product and then make sure it resembles nothing of its creation. “Why destroy that something the creator puts in it? Each series has its own world, its own reality, its own rules.” Roman’s style is not to impose on the original vision.

Also, he notes that there are 3 important factors to great animation, “The story, the characters and how the story is told. This is the job of the director, to make sure all elements work together, “to feel what the author is trying to say and express that.”

Now semi retired, he still finds time to mentor emerging artists. “Animators must be aware of the world”. So if a person possesses a joy for life, even if their portfolio isn’t up to par, he’ll give the candidate a chance. “You can teach animation, but you can’t teach an energy and excitement for life.” However, once given the opportunity, Roman expects the same work ethic of his interns that has governed his own career by saying, “I’ll help you, but you have to help yourself.”

When asked the secret of his success (I’m not supposed to tell anyone, so this is just between me and you), he leaned over and with a twinkle in his eye whispered, “Being dumb.” His words struck me to the core. To this reporter, it meant not playing dumb, or acting dumb and something deeper, more profound: to always be willing to learn, to be open and fearless, to have a childlike innocence, to be surprised and awe-filled. This must be true of most artists in this profession because animators tend to work into there 70’s and 80’s, and why? “Because we laugh!”, Roman exclaims. “It keeps you young.”

Roman will conduct an Up Close & Personal Talk on Animation, Fri. Feb 27th, 1-3 PM in the Charlie Chaplin Theater at Raleigh Studios. Animators, students, youth and lovers of animation, this event is not to be missed if priceless conversation in an intimate setting, with an industry giant, appeals to you. Ticket are $15.00.

Now in it 14th year, Roman joins a distinguished list of IFFF honorees including many of Roman’s mentors and colleagues: Charles Shulz, William Melendez, Joseph Barbera and Friz Freleng. The IFFF Awards Ceremony begins at 6:30PM, Sunday, March 1st and is followed by the IFFF Awards Banquet. Ticket are $75.00.

To read Phil Roman’s complete biography and to get your event tickets, please visit www.iffilmfest.org.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

IFFF Defines the Family Film Genre

Great Stories Bring Families Together

The International Family Film Festival is coming to “the lot” at the world famous Raleigh Studios in Hollywood, 5300 Melrose Avenue, February 26th – March 1st, 2009 with a plethora of premieres and international debuts. Not only are select films eing screened from around the world, but IFFF has introduced a new ratings system: CH – Children 12 and under, GA – General Audience and MA – Mature Audience. This defining act breaks the old-school idea that family film means film-lite and guarantees there is something for everyone at the IFFF.

Also, in recognition of the filmmakers’ fulfillment of the mission of IFFF - to make socially responsible films that are suitable for a general audience that express a fundamental respect for the positive values of life and illustrate the universal human experiences that connect us all - all films accepted receive the IFFF Official Selection Seal.

This year IFFF jurists chose from a record number of submissions representing 23 countries, 24 states and 29 film schools in the categories of Best Feature Film, Best Short Film and Best Student Short Film -- all competing for awards in Best rama, Comedy, Documentary, Educational, Animation (Computer), Animation (Classic) and Musical; as well as the opportunity to receive industry recognition by receiving an IFFF Spirit Award, IFFF Directors Gold Award, and the Top Applause Award.

All Day at the IFFF

Great Stories Bring Families Together begins Thursday, February 26th with Screenings in three theaters - the Douglas Fairbanks, the Mary Pickford and the Charlie Chaplin (seating is limited, so get your tickets early). Each day begins at 10AM with Free Screenings for Public School children of films made-by-kids-for-kids. Contact info@ifflimfest.org to plan your class filed trip today!

Films from around the world continue to screen until midnight! Economize with an All-Day Screening Pass for just $40.00. After each film, find out how they did it in a Talk Back with the filmmakers! For the complete schedule, visit Screenings Page

Opening Night at the IFFF

Films chosen for IFFF’s Opening Night, Thursday February 26th at 7:00pm are:

‘Our Lady of Victory’ - director Tim Chambers, producer Whitney Springer, starring Ellen Burstyn, Carla Gugino, Marley Shelton and David Boreanaz, this film is based on the story of Cathy Rush who began her career in the 1970's as a Basketball Coach of an all girls Catholic School. She finds the courage and faith to lead her team along the improbable journey of winning the international championship of women's basketball.

‘Super Capers’ - producer/screenwriter/director Ray Griggs, producer by Ruben Linn, starring Justin Whalin, Michael Rooker, June Lockhart and Adam West, is the story of a good guy with no powers, who joins a superhero team with no clue how to behave and ends up battling a bad guy with no shame.

‘Dark Horse’ - producer/screenwriter/director Cornelia Moore, producer Larry Estes, starring Carol Roscoe, Hynes Brooke, Kathryn Mesney and Sean Griffin, is the story of Dana, a ballet teacher, who reluctantly returns to her childhood home to discover that it is about to be sold. To save the farm and the family, she must tame her mother's dangerous black horse and ride him to victory in the year's biggest dressage competition.

This promises to be an unforgettable night for family films. The Opening Night Screenings are followed by the IFFF Opening Night Reception at 9:00pm in the Raleigh Studious’ Cantina Café. Tickets are $15.00 and bring your business cards, networking expected!

IFFF: True To Its Cause

The International Family Film Festival was designed to educate, cultivate, and elevate the family film genre by advocating and encouraging the creation and sharing of family film and screenplay product through film exhibition, professional and children’s hands-on film camps, seminars and post-film discussions.

Saturday, February 28th is traditionally Family Day at the festival. Unlike the weekdays, films appropriate to a younger audience are screened all day long. Special hands-on workshops are offered at the Freshi Roadshow, IFFF’s traveling introduction to filmmaking for young filmmakers. Kids get a camera, lanyard and access to the lot to shoot their movie. Participants will also receive a copy of Intercut, The Magazine for Next-Gen Filmmakers. Parents, be sure to put this on your child’s must-do list!

This Just In!

Friday, Feb 27 at 5:00pm and Sunday, March at 12:00pm ‘Dreamriders’ will be screening in the Chaplin & Pickford Theatres. This film was created by William Roulston who had the desire to restore communications with his 18-year-old son. He needed to create a 'bonding experience' and this is how and why the bicycle trip came about. Afterward, the Travel Channel will be hosting a reception in honor of this father and son odyssey of cycling across America. Saint Tone with Tony (Lavorgna ) Saint Tone will be entertaining at the Reception with his guitar and voice.

The Ford Company will be displaying two of their 2010 ‘green’ cars adjacent to the

IFFF Reception Tent. Come pick-up your IFFF tickets and check them out!

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

Monday, February 9, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

IFFF Tickets on Sale Now

Great Stories Bring Families Together

Tickets are now on sale for the 14th annual International Family Film Festival celebrating its third year at the historic Raleigh Studios - Hollywood, February 26th – March 1st. Not only are films being screened from around the world, but the following Special Events are being offered throughout the film festival:

Panel Mania at the IFFF

The edutainment begins with this year’s IFFF honoree and legendary animator/producer Phil Roman in an Up Close & Personal Talk on Animation, Fri. Feb 27th, 1-3 pm. Mr. Roman will receive the Lifetime Achievement in Animation & Visual Effects. Roman brought to life such classics as ‘The Simpsons’, ‘King of the Hill’ and ‘Garfield’. His work has been recognized on such projects as ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’, ‘Stuart Little’, ‘Lord of the Rings’, ‘Monster House’, and the ageless classic, ‘The Grinch Who Stole Christmas’. This panel is not to be missed if priceless conversation in an intimate setting, with an industry giant, appeals to you!

Other panels include, Screenwriters on Family Films, held Saturday Feb. 28th from 11-1pm, sponsored by our friends at Final Draft! Also offered Saturday is Producers on Family Films from 2-4pm. And closing out this year’s edutainment is Distributors on Family Films, held Sunday, March 1st from 10-11:30am. Visit www.iffilmfest.org where industry panelists will be posted in the coming weeks. All Panels are $15.00 and are held in Raleigh Studios’ infamous Cantina Cafe.

First-Time Events at the IFFF

IFFF is doing something special this year, an IFFF Networking Brunch for members only and their guests. This new event will be held Sun. March 1st from 9-11am. Don’t miss this great opportunity to rub elbows with the movers, shakers and supporters of the family film genre. Membership is only $35.00 and gives you a 20% discount at the festival. You never know who you’ll meet in this informal setting. Many a movie deal has been made at the Cantina! Tickets are only $10.00.

A Professional Studio Tour will be held Sunday March 1st from 10-11:30am. Located on Melrose Avenue in the heart of Hollywood, Raleigh Studios is an 11 acre complex of sound stages, production facilities and support space. Founded in 1915, actress Mary Pickford produced one of the first features filmed on this historic lot. Although the ‘Silent’ era was still in full swing (hosting such icons as Charlie Chapman), an early owner had the vision to build one of the first sound stages in the world. Today, shows like ‘The Closer’, ‘Private Practice’ and ‘Castle’ are filmed here. Tickets are $10 for IFFF attendees and definitely a must do!

Prestigious Awards at the IFFF

Saturday February 28th at 4pm hosts the popular IFFF Screenwriters Showcase & Awards. In this, the last round of the IFFF Screenplay Competition, finalists choose the best scenes from their scripts to present before the industry elite - directors, managers, agents, producers and distributors – performed by professional actors. The Director for this event is Ashley Beyer. The IFFF screenwriting winners for Best Screenplay Feature & Best Short Film in the categories of Drama, Comedy, Animation, Musical, and Sci-Fi/Fantasy will then be revealed. In past festivals, producers have optioned five films from this single event. Finally, all of the winners and finalists will be introduced to the public and have an opportunity to field questions about their scripts networking at the Screenwriter’s Reception, 6:30pm in the Cantina. Tickets for this cutting edge event are $15.00.

The IFFF culminates March 1st at 6:30pm with the red-carpet IFFF Awards Ceremony& Banquet. IFFF chooses finalists from a record number of submissions representing 23 countries, 24 states and 29 film schools in the categories of Best Feature Film, Best Short Film and Best Student Short Film. Winners in Best Drama, Comedy, Documentary, Educational, Animation (Computer), Animation (Classic) and Musicals are announced. In this stellar event, not only are the best-of-the-fest shorts and features revealed, but special industry recognition certificates are bestowed: the IFFF Spirit Award, IFFF Directors Gold Award, and Top Applause Award (audience votes).

The highest honor of the evening, the Friz Award (named for legendary animator Friz Freleng) for Lifetime Achievement in Animation will be awarded to animator/director/ producer Phil Roman. Presenting this award will be Nancy Cartwright, the actress behind the mischievous voice of Bart Simpson. The evening ends with a delicious banquet. Tickets are $75.00.

So get your tickets now for these not-to-be-missed IFFF Special Events. That’s a wrap!

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

The 14th Annual International Family Film Festival (IFFF)

Great Stories Bring Families Together

January 26, 2009: Celebrating its 14th year, the 2009 International Family Film Festival (IFFF), held at Raleigh Studios in the heart of Hollywood, Thursday, February 26 - Sunday, March 1st , is turning its spotlight on the theme of Great Stories Bring Families Together.

The 2009 artwork depicts a primitive family huddled around a roaring fire under a starry night sky listening to a magical story being told by the village matriarch. One gets the sense that the tribe is fully engaged in her vivid narration. When asked about the concept behind festival theme, Chris Shoemaker, co-founder of IFFF shared that, "My concept for this year's IFFF art was that women, throughout the ages, represent the keepers and principal storytellers of our cultures. They traditionally foster the care and succor in a family and in so doing, bring and keep the spirit of a family together."

How true this is of his IFFF co-founders, Development Director, Suzanne Shoemaker and Program Director, Patte Dee McKee, the matriarchs of IFFF. The festival was designed by the trio in 1993 to educate, cultivate, and elevate the family film genre by advocating and encouraging the creation and sharing of family films and screenplays through film exhibition, panels, networking and screenplay readings.

"Women are powerful, and as we increasingly see in many of today's cultures, are assuming more key leadership positions in government, business, religion and of course the home. In my own life, my wife (Suzanne and IFFF co-founder) has been my business partner for over 19 years. We've raised 3 boys, started several businesses and traveled the world together. I understand how multi-tasking and effective a woman can be in the home while holding down a career at the same time. It's not hard for me to believe that an ancient woman warrior could captivate an audience in front of a roaring fire. Honestly, I see that happen in my own home!"

Great Stories Bring Families Together begins Thursday, February 26th from 10am until midnight with Screenings in three theaters. IFFF will choose the finalist films for screenings from a record number of submissions representing 23 countries, 24 states and 29 film schools. The first day begins with free screenings for Public School children, and ends with the screening of the Opening Night films followed with a Reception hosted at Raleigh.

Friday, February 27th, the Screenings continue with free Pubic School screenings followed by a fantastic line-up of films-- all competing for the titles of Best Feature Film, Best Short Film and Best Student Short Film in the categories of Drama, Comedy, Documentary, Educational, Animation (Computer), Animation (Classic) and Musicals. Added to the day are IFFF Industry Panels where industry elite discuss pertinent topics including Screenwriting Family Films, Financing Family Films, Distributing Family Films and Digital Filmmaking Techniques.

Mr. Phil Roman legendary animator and producer of such timeless classics as ‘Garfield’ and ‘The Simpson’s’ will give an “Up Close and Personal” talk at 1 PM that is open to the public.

Saturday February 28th is traditionally Family Day at the festival. Films appropriate to a younger audience are screened during the day as well as special hands-on workshops are offered for young filmmakers.

Saturday is also the day focused on the Scriptwriters with featured panels and the culminating IFFF Screenwriters Showcase where excerpts from the finalist scripts are read by professional actors. This Showcase is directed by Ashley Beyer.

Sunday, March 1st, Screenings and Panels continue, but this year adding a new feature, the IFFF Networking Brunch for IFFF Members and their guests as well as industry tours of the Raleigh facility and other local independent studio spaces. That evening, the festival culminates in the red-carpet IFFF Awards Ceremony & Banquet. In this prestigious event, not only are the best-of-the-best shorts and features revealed, but the special industry recognition awards, IFFF Spirit Award, IFFF Directors Gold Award, and Top Applause Award (audience votes) are handed out.

As mentioned, the top honor of the evening is the presentation of the Friz Award (named for the legendary Friz Freleng) for Lifetime Achievement in Animation. The recipient this year is Mr. Phil Roman, honored for his Excellence in Animation & Visual Effects. Roman brought to life such classics as ‘The Simpson’s’, ‘King of the Hill’ and ‘Garfield’. His work has been recognized in such projects as ‘Chronicles of Narnia’, ‘Stuart Little’, ‘Lord of the Rings’, ‘Monster House’, and the ageless classic, ‘The Grinch Who Stole Christmas’.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE!

Monday, February 9, 2009

Yvonne Farrow, IFFF PR

yfarrow@iffilmfest.org

818.679.7673 (m)

IFFF Tickets on Sale Now

Great Stories Bring Families Together

Panel Mania at the IFFF

The edutainment begins with this year’s IFFF honoree and legendary animator/producer Phil Roman in an Up Close & Personal Talk on Animation, Fri. Feb 27th, 1-3 PM. Mr. Roman will receive the Lifetime Achievement in Animation & Visual Effects. Roman brought to life such classics as ‘The Simpsons’, ‘King of the Hill’ and ‘Garfield’. His work has been recognized on such projects as ‘The Chronicles of Narnia’, ‘Stuart Little’, ‘Lord of the Rings’, ‘Monster House’, and the ageless classic, ‘The Grinch Who Stole Christmas’. This panel is not to be missed if priceless conversation in an intimate setting, with an industry giant, appeals to you!

Other panels include, Screenwriters on Family Films, held Saturday Feb. 28th from 11-1PM, sponsored by our friends at Final Draft! Also offered Saturday is Producers on Family Films from 2-4PM. And closing out this year’s edutainment is Distributors on Family Films, held Sunday, March 1st from 10-11:30AM. Visit www.iffilmfest.org where industry panelists will be posted in the coming weeks. All Panels are $15.00 and are held in Raleigh Studios’ infamous Cantina Cafe.

First-Time Events at the IFFF

IFFF is doing something special this year, an IFFF Networking Brunch for members only and their guests. This new event will be held Sun. March 1st from 9-11AM. Don’t miss this great opportunity to rub elbows with the movers, shakers and supporters of the family film genre. Membership is only $35.00 and gives you a 20% discount at the festival. You never know who you’ll meet in this informal setting. Many a movie deal has been made at the Cantina! Tickets are only $10.00.

A Professional Studio Tour will be held Sunday March 1st from 10-11:30AM. Located on Melrose Avenue in the heart of Hollywood, Raleigh Studios is an 11 acre complex of sound stages, production facilities and support space. Founded in 1915, actress Mary Pickford produced one of the first features filmed on this historic lot. Although the ‘Silent’ era was still in full swing (hosting such icons as Charlie Chapman), an early owner had the vision to build one of the first sound stages in the world. Today, shows like ‘The Closer’, ‘Private Practice’ and ‘Castle’ are filmed here. Tickets are $10 for IFFF attendees and definitely a must do!

Prestigious Awards at the IFFF

Saturday February 28th at 4PM hosts the popular IFFF Screenwriters Showcase & Awards. In this, the last round of the IFFF Screenplay Competition, finalists choose the best scenes from their scripts to present before the industry elite - directors, managers, agents, producers and distributors – performed by professional actors. The Director for this event is Ashley Beyer. The IFFF screenwriting winners for Best Screenplay Feature & Best Short Film in the categories of Drama, Comedy, Animation, Musical, and Sci-Fi/Fantasy will then be revealed. In past festivals, producers have optioned five films from this single event. Finally, all of the winners and finalists will be introduced to the public and have an opportunity to field questions about their scripts networking at the Screenwriter’s Reception, 6:30PM in the Cantina. Tickets for this cutting edge event are $15.00.

The IFFF culminates March 1st at 6:30PM with the red-carpet IFFF Awards Ceremony& Banquet. IFFF chooses finalists from a record number of submissions representing 23 countries, 24 states and 29 film schools in the categories of Best Feature Film, Best Short Film and Best Student Short Film. Winners in Best Drama, Comedy, Documentary, Educational, Animation (Computer), Animation (Classic) and Musicals are announced. In this stellar event, not only are the best-of-the-fest shorts and features revealed, but special industry recognition certificates are bestowed: the IFFF Spirit Award, IFFF Directors Gold Award, and Top Applause Award (audience votes).

So get your tickets now for these not-to-be-missed IFFF Special Events. That’s a wrap!

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	Copyright 2010 International Family Film Festival