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Proud Founders & Hosts of the Annual Filmmakers Artists in Residence Program
MAJOR SPONSOR
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LEADING SPONSORS
SUPPORTING SPONSORS
Better Everyday
MEDIA SPONSORS
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PATRON CIRCLE The Patron Circle is a year-round membership program with exclusive access to celebrated filmmakers, actors, chefs, and vintners. Whether it’s a private winemaker dinner or a red carpet premiere, members receive elevated VIP treatment at the film festival and beyond.
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR PATRON CIRCLE ELITE PARTNERS:
Thank you to our Patron Circle members for generously supporting our non-profit mission and our year-round Education + Outreach Programs. PATRON | $2,500 The Essential VIP Experience $1,500 tax-deductible
A-LISTER | $5,000 The Elevated VIP Experience $3,750 tax-deductible MOVIE MOGUL | $25,000 The Ultimate VIP Experience $20,000 tax-deductible
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New this year: Twin Dolphin Los Cabos will be hosting a Patron Circle Lounge at the Lincoln Theater. Members will enjoy a private entrance to the screening venue along with luxurious amenities anytime they attend a film or special event.
MOVIE MOGULS Carla Buffington The Gardner Grout Foundation Irene + Ed Ojdana Daniel Schryer Commissioner Mae C. Woo + Chris Woo
A-LISTERS Lily + David Allen-Hughes Beth + John Allen Nick Allen Carissa Ashman Janell + Bob Bassett Ulla + John Brown Terri Carlisle Debra Crow Naomi + Patrick Davila Sonya + Richard Garber
Laura + Tawhid Gazi Michele + David Glasser Carolina + Barry Gustin Christin Martinelli + Ethan Hare Patricia Decker + John Holton Pepper + Michael Jackson Kim + Dan Johnson Brenda + Marc Lhormer Maureen + Marlin McKeever
Erika + Michael Mountanos Jane + Larry Solomon Patricia + Granville Toogood Janice Turner Janet Effland + William Urbach Hilary + Chris Wendel Jeffrey Wilcox Stephanie + Michael Woods
PATRONS Lauren Ackerman
Patty + Larry Fallek
Carla Murray + Tom Robinson
Mary Cunningham Agee
Beth Fitzgerald
Heather + John Roebuck
Myrna + Jim Andrews
Lorraine + Richard Gingery
Tara Rudman
Bella Babot + Richard Baer
Sarah + Chris Hansen
Robin + Harlan Shapiro
Elizabeth Wright + David Beier
J. Todd Harris
Stephanie Sheehy
John Brazzale
Katherina Haug
Peta + Don Shindle
Janet Brown
Zoe + Ron Hofmann
Brigit + Barry Shotts
Marcy Burns
Christina + Robert Jennings
Joan + Mark Siegel
Linda + Paul Cantey
Shandi + Michael Johnson
Sasha Match + Randy Sloan
Vance Landis-Carey + Robert Carey
Geyer Kosinski
Dr. Jag Soni
Jack Lease
Jimena + Samuel Sweeley
Dory Culver
Judy Lewis
Rhonda + Bill Tannenbaum
Teresa Cunningham
Henry Loubet
Cathy + Tom Tardio
Diana Zaragoza + Patricio Davila
Dayna Manning
Terry DeBacco
Vickie + Bill Maxwell
Michelle Wagner + Rick Thompson
T.J. Dieveney
Randy McBride
Gina Hintz + David Wakefield
John Dunbar
Loann Nguyen + Scott McDonald
Catherine + Glenn White
Cindi + Dan Dwyer
Nancy Garton + Kent Palmerton
Barbara Lee + Bruce Woollen
Dana + Andy Eckert
Brenda Boone + Jennifer Purcell
Krys + Randy Wulff
Zoe Fairbourn
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VINTNER CIRCLE The Vintner Circle is an elite group of Napa Valley wineries that pairs directly with the festival’s exclusive Patron Circle. In addition to pouring their best varietals at VIP events, each winery hosts an intimate dinner for Patron Circle members, celebrities, and filmmakers. For more information on how to join the Vintner Circle, visit nvff.org/vintner-circle.
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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR OFFICIAL SPARKLING WINE SPONSOR:
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WELCOME 9TH ANNUAL NAPA VALLEY FILM FESTIVAL
Our guidebook cover is a series of pictures viewed through a window. A window can be a powerful metaphorical symbol. It is
this wine region famous. The festival proudly salutes films inspired by chefs, gastronomic experiences, and cooking traditions. Like
a portal that makes it possible for you to travel through and discover. Our window is a continuum that connects and celebrates the art and passion of filmmaking, winemaking, and culinary experiences. These arts speak to our culture and our life. Welcome, you simply won’t find another festival that can match the quality of the Napa Valley Film Festival’s triplicity.
film, culinary experiences convey our culture and celebrate our stories.
Our mission is to evoke a sense of discovery in our audience while recognizing, acknowledging, and rewarding the bold visual storytelling seen in our programming this year. Over the course of our five-day festival, films are proudly and passionately delivered to our community by current and emerging generations of filmmakers. Their product is personal, highly creative, and extremely authentic. Coupled with the award-winning varietals showcased at the festival’s screening venues, culinary demonstrations, and special events, the common DNA traits of these ‘makers’ are woven together throughout the Napa Valley Film Festival experience. And let’s not forget about the unparalleled culinary adventures and venues that make
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As the Napa Valley Film Festival continues to grow its year-round programming and support its mission to inspire new generations of filmmakers, the celebration of art will remain at the forefront of our purpose. Currently, a growing number of educators in Napa Valley school districts are exploring ways to incorporate filmmaking and creative storytelling into their curriculum. It is our hope that the film festival can seek to provide an abundance of summer film camps, discussion topics, documentary films, and classroom speakers that continue to showcase the power and responsibility of visual storytelling. Enjoy and absorb the new ideas and perspectives for our ever-changing world!
TOM TARDIO CEO, Napa Valley Film Festival
CONTENTS 13 FESTIVAL OVERVIEW 18 VENUES + MAPS FESTIVAL OVERVIEW
Venue and box office information // pgs. 13 - 21
CELEBRITY TRIBUTES Honoring the highest levels of cinematic achievement // pg. 28
23 SPECIAL EVENTS Vivant Launch Party
pg. 24
Opening Night Party pg. 25 Variety’s Film to Table pg. 26 Celebrity Tributes pg. 28 A-List Dinner Party pg. 29 Vintner Circle Dinners pg. 31 Friday Night Bash pg. 35 Rising Star Showcase pg. 37 Festival Gala pg. 38
VINTNER CIRCLE DINNERS
Exclusive winemaker dinners highlighting festival films // pgs. 31 - 33
FESTIVAL GALA WITH I WANT MY MTV New this year: Gala film and party inspired by the 80s // pg. 38
39 ON SCREEN Programmers’ Note pg. 41 Studio Spotlight pg. 42 Festival Jury pg. 49 Artists-In-Residence Program pg. 50 Featured Industry Panelists pg. 51 Narrative Competition pg. 52 Documentary Competition pg. 62 Verge pg. 72
FILM PROGRAM
75 Narrative and Documentary short and feature films // pgs. 39 - 100
CULINARY DEMONSTRATIONS
Live film and culinary collaborations // pgs. 104 - 105
Culinary Cinema pg. 78 Special Presentations pg. 84 Narrative Shorts pg. 94 Documentary Shorts pg. 98
101 OFF SCREEN Napa Festival Hub pg. 102 Monogram Demonstration Kitchen pg. 104 St. Helena Festival Hub pg. 108
WINE INTERMISSIONS
Afternoon wine tastings and live music at Festival Hubs // pgs. 103, 109
BLENDING LAB
New this year: Panel series on the art of film, food, and wine // pg. 110
Blending Lab
pg. 110
111 ORGANIZATION + PARTNERS 11
VINTAGE TO VINTAGE, FAMILY, PLACE, AND CRAFT ARE AT THE HEART OF J. LOHR’S SUCCESS
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FESTIVAL OVERVIEW 13
BOX OFFICES Once NVFF begins, passes can be picked up at our two Festival Box Offices located in Napa and St. Helena. By default, all passes will be assigned for pick-up at the Napa Box Office. To pick up your pass in St. Helena, please contact Customer Service.
Customize your schedule
CUSTOMER SERVICE (707) 226-7500 customerservice@napavalleyfilmfest.org
NAPA BOX OFFICE
Oxbow Commons 1268 McKinstry Street, Napa
Interactive venue maps
Open Wednesday, Nov. 13 Saturday, Nov. 16: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday, November 17: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
ST. HELENA BOX OFFICE
Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch 738 Main Street, St. Helena Open Wednesday, Nov. 13 Saturday, Nov. 16: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM; Sunday, November 17: 8:00 AM - 3:00 PM
VOLUNTEERS The Napa Valley Film Festival relies on the dedication of hundreds of volunteers who generously donate their time and share their love of the Napa Valley with festival attendees. Look for volunteers in Cabernet-colored shirts marked by Whole Foods, our official volunteer sponsor. Volunteers can be found at all box offices, festival hubs, and screening venues.
FESTIVAL APP For more information about our programming and special events, download our mobile app available through both the App Store and Google Play.
CONNECT WITH US As always, we encourage you to share your festival experience on social media. Follow, tag, and talk to us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter using the handle @napafilmfest.
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LINE ACCESS ENTRANCE PRIORITY
THEATER ENTRANCE
Audience members are admitted in the following order: 1) 2) 3) 4) 5)
Patron Circle Pass Plus Festival Pass Flex Pass Rush Tickets
PATRON CIRCLE No Lines, No Wait Time
We encourage all pass holders to arrive 45 minutes before showtime, as a pass does not guarantee a seat in the theater. Pass Plus holders will be admitted into the screening venue first, and will receive 25 minutes to enter the theater before Festival Pass and Flex Pass holders. Rush tickets are available if seats still remain after all pass holders have entered the venue. Please note that if you arrive less than 20 minutes before showtime, and your designated line has already been admitted, you will need to proceed to the back of the next line entering the venue. As a benefit to the Patron Circle, members are not required to wait in a pass holder line. We equally encourage Patron Circle members to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to ensure seat preference and availability.
THEATERS SEAT CAPACITY We encourage all Festival and Flex Pass holders to see films at the large to mid-size screening venues. Check your guide or the mobile app for seating capacities. Make sure to arrive early if there is a screening you want to see at a smaller venue and, as always, make sure to have a backup plan if your first choice screening is sold out. There is bound to be another great film playing nearby!
PASS PLUS 1st in Line Proceed to the first line and look for “PASS PLUS” signs
FESTIVAL PASS 2nd in Line Look for “FEST PASS” signs
FLEX PASS 3rd in Line Look for “FLEX PASS” signs
RUSH TICKETS 4th in Line Look for “RUSH” signs
All pass holders are encouraged to arrive 45 minutes before showtime.
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Elevate your POINT OF VIEW Change your wine country perspective at Archer — downtown Napa’s urban-chic boutique hotel. Your ultimate NVFF experience includes luxe guest rooms and balcony-clad suites, a destination rooftop bar with panoramic valley vistas, the bold American fare of Charlie Palmer Steak and stellar, sincere service — right in the heart of the action.
Your room is ready.
#archerhotel
archerhotel.com A RCH ER N A PA
LOCAL
RESERVAT I ONS
1230 FIRST STREET, NAPA, CA 94559
707.690.9800
855.200.9052
D. HR
T. NS RSO
C RAN
FE JEF
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This way to YOUNTVILLE and ST. HELENA
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This way to Vallejo, Sacramento, San Francisco
DOWN-VALLEY VENUES NVFF’s unique collection of venues highlights the diversity of the Valley, ranging from historic landmark theaters to custom pop-ups that each distinctively showcase our program and provide a forum for conversation with attending filmmakers, chefs, and vintners.
1 THE ARCHER HOTEL Capacity: 180 seats 1230 First Street, Napa
The Archer Hotel is a luxury boutique destination located in the heart of downtown Napa. After attending an intimate film screening, indulge in the other pillars of NVFF’s experience, as this location boasts a wealth of exceptional dining options, as well as several tasting rooms — all within a few blocks.
2 THE CIA AT COPIA Capacity: 240 seats 500 First Street, Napa
In addition to its state-of-the-art culinary facilities, the CIA at Copia hosts an equally impressive screening venue. Its theater serves as the ideal venue for many of NVFF’s culinary-themed films and is conveniently located adjacent to our Napa Festival Hub.
VENUE CAPACITY + LINE ACCESS We encourage all pass holders to arrive 45 minutes before showtime, as a pass does not guarantee a seat in the theater. Pass Plus holders will be admitted into the screening venue first, and will receive 25 minutes to enter the theater before Festival Pass and Flex Pass holders. Rush tickets are available if seats still remain after all pass holders have entered the venue. As a benefit to the Patron Circle, members are not required to wait in a pass holder line. We equally encourage Patron Circle members to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to ensure seat preference and availability.
3 UPTOWN THEATRE Capacity: 850 seats 1350 Third Street, Napa
Originally built in 1937, the Uptown Theatre is a historic art-deco masterpiece found in downtown Napa. Each seat in the house offers a spectacular vantage point — not only to admire its remarkable architecture, but also to revel in a unique cinematic experience.
4 THE STUDIO BY FEAST IT FORWARD Cinelease Filmmaker + VIP Lounge 1031 McKinstry Street, Napa
New this year, The Studio by Feast it Forward hosts filmmakers and Patron Circle members for surprise performances and interactive tastings at the Cinelease Filmmaker + VIP Lounge.
5 OXBOW COMMONS Napa Festival Hub
1268 McKinstry Street, Napa New this year, the Oxbow Commons serves as the Napa Festival Hub, featuring the Napa Box Office, Cathay Pacific Wellness Lounge, Monogram Demonstration Kitchen, and afternoon Wine Intermissions.
VENUE HIGHLIGHTS KEY Screening Venue Wine Experiences
6 WESTIN VERASA NAPA NVFF Headquarter Hotel
1314 McKinstry Street, Napa
Culinary Offerings Special Event Location
The Westin Verasa Napa is the official headquarter hotel for sponsor, media, and filmmaker check-in.
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1 LINCOLN THEATER Capacity: 800 seats 100 California Drive, Yountville
Tucked away down a picturesque tree-lined lane, the Lincoln Theater is the largest performing arts center in the Napa Valley. The Lincoln Theater showcases both film screenings and special events, including our Celebrity Tributes and Festival Gala.
2 CAMEO CINEMA Capacity: 140 seats 1340 Main Street, St. Helena
Founded in 1913, the Cameo Cinema is the oldest operating theater in the Napa Valley — a landmark of historic downtown St. Helena that encapsulates the character of this community. With its Barco laser projector, the Cameo provides an unparalleled cinematic experience.
CHARLES KRUG WINERY Capacity: 160 seats
NVFF’s unique collection of venues highlights the diversity of the Valley, ranging from historic landmark theaters to custom pop-ups that each distinctively showcase our program and provide a forum for conversation with attending filmmakers, chefs, and vintners.
VENUE CAPACITY + LINE ACCESS
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2800 Main Street, St. Helena The Carriage House at Charles Krug perfectly exemplifies the historic estate of Napa Valley’s oldest winery. In addition to its screening venue, the Carriage House will also feature a signature lounge, complete with wood-fire pizza, charcuterie, and — of course — wine.
4 NATIVE SONS HALL Capacity: 180 seats 1313 Spring Street, St. Helena
Nestled among the charming homes and charasmatic buildings of downtown St. Helena is Native Sons Hall, an inviting venue that has served as a cornerstone of this community for over 100 years.
FARMSTEAD AT LONG MEADOW RANCH St. Helena Festival Hub
UP-VALLEY VENUES
We encourage all pass holders to arrive 45 minutes before showtime, as a pass does not guarantee a seat in the theater. Pass Plus holders will be admitted into the screening venue first, and will receive 25 minutes to enter the theater before Festival Pass and Flex Pass holders. Rush tickets are available if seats still remain after all pass holders have entered the venue. As a benefit to the Patron Circle, members are not required to wait in a pass holder line. We equally encourage Patron Circle members to arrive at least 30 minutes before showtime to ensure seat preference and availability.
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738 Main Street, St. Helena Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch serves as the St. Helena Festival Hub, featuring the St. Helena Box Office, afternoon Wine Intermissions, and new Blending Lab and Three Drinkers Masterclasses.
MEADOWOOD NAPA VALLEY Artists-in-Residence Program
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VENUE HIGHLIGHTS KEY Screening Venue
900 Meadowood Lane, St. Helena
Wine Experiences
The directors of the Narrative and Documentary Features within NVFF’s core competition participate in intimate networking events, as well as a workshop and panel series.
Culinary Offerings Special Event Location
UP-VALLEY
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This way to NAPA
This way to NAPA
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N A P A
VALLEY
Raymond Vineyards passionately sponsors the 2019 Trailblazer Award Napa’s most diverse and dynamic destination, dedicated to inspiring passion, creativity, and discovery. @ R AY MO N D V I N E Y A R D S | ST. HELENA, CALIFORNIA
SPECIAL EVENTS 23
WED NOV. 13
VARIETY’S VIVANT LAUNCH To celebrate the launch of Variety magazine’s new publication, Vivant, NVFF and Variety are co-hosting a cocktail party. This print and online publication will bring Hollywood’s food and beverage culture to life, spotlighting both the Hollywood insiders’ lifestyles, as well as the trends they are discovering every day.
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13
3:00 PM - 5:00 PM SKY & VINE ROOFTOP BAR at the ARCHER HOTEL | NAPA Pass Holder Access All Patron Circle Members
WED NOV. 13
OPENING NIGHT PARTY Celebrate the opening night of the festival at the Oxbow Commons with filmmakers from this year’s program. Be the first to get a taste of our customized Monogram Demonstration Kitchen, outfitted lounge by Cathay Pacific Airways, and pop-up bars from Peroni and High West Distillery.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM OXBOW COMMONS | NAPA Pass Holder Access Pass Plus (5-Day), All Patron Circle Members
Better Everyday
Hosted by Viking Cruises, the Filmmaker + VIP Lounge at The Studio by Feast it Forward features exclusive wine and food pairings, along with live entertainment.
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THU NOV. 14
VARIETY’S FILM TO TABLE Sourced from the Valley’s finest wineries, these talented chefs showcase their masterful interpretations of dishes inspired by iconic film scenes. This event presents a unique opportunity to meet the chefs, sample their creations, and engage in an interactive discussion with celebrity panelists about the role of food in film. Join Food Network’s Chef Jet Tila and his wife, Ali Tila, in conversation with our celebrity panelists and featured chefs, including: Mark Caldwell (Davis Estates), Tod Kawachi (St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery), Rafael Molina (Raymond Vineyards), Dominic Orsini (Silver Oak Cellars), Jeffery Russell (Louis M. Martini Winery), Joshua Schwartz (Piazza del Dotto Winery & Caves), and Tony Spleen (Charles Krug Winery).
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14
10:30 AM - 1:00 PM CHARLES KRUG WINERY | ST. HELENA Pass Holder Access All Patron Circle Members
Š2019 Charles Krug Winery, St. Helena, CA
In 1861, Charles Krug, the visionary father of Na p a Va l l e y w i n e m a k i n g , e s t a b l i s h e d t h e winery that started it all. T h e M o n d a v i Fa m i l y p u r c h a s e d t h i s a l r e a d y i c o n i c property in 1943, and for over 75 years and four generations they continue to build upon its r e p u t a t i o n f o r i n n o v a t i o n a n d q u a l i t y. Visit our legendar y St. Helena estate, and let us s h a r e o u r Na p a Va l l e y h e r i t a g e w i t h y o u .
Open Daily 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. 2800 Main Street, St. Helena, CA 94574 | CharlesKrug.com | FB + IG: @CharlesKrugWinery | 707.967.2229
THU NOV. 14
CELEBRITY TRIBUTES Join us as we salute the highest levels of cinematic achievement. Our Tribute program includes live on-stage interviews with some of the most highly regarded actors and directors in the industry, hosted by Entertainment Tonight. This year, we honor a Charles Krug Legendary Actor, Raymond Vineyards Trailblazer, and Blackbird Vineyards Visionary. For more information on the current tribute lineup and schedule, visit nvff.org/schedule.
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14
6:00 PM - 7:45 PM *5:00 pm Celebrity Red Carpet Arrivals LINCOLN THEATER | YOUNTVILLE Pass Holder Access Ticket Holders, Pass Plus (5-Day), All Patron Circle Members
THU NOV. 14
A-LIST DINNER PARTY
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14
8:00 PM - 11:00 PM CLIFF LEDE VINEYARDS | YOUNTVILLE Pass Holder Access A-Listers, Movie Moguls
Following the Celebrity Tributes, our top level Patron Circle members are invited to join our Tribute honorees at an exclusive dinner held within Cliff Lede Vineyards’ grand and contemporary tank room. Each table is hosted by one of our Vintner Circle members who share their renowned varietals as a complement to the exquisite cuisine provided by Estate Events by Meadowood.
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H ig h a b o v e t h e f o g i n t h e ea st er n m o u n t a in s o f Napa
a r k en st o n e.c o m
FRI NOV. 15
VINTNER CIRCLE DINNERS Members of our Patron Circle and invited VIP guests partake in one of the highlights of the festival: our famed Vintner Circle Dinners. The evening consists of 20 extravagant and intimate dinner parties happening simultaneously at an array of local wineries. These dinners abundantly showcase the elements that establish the Napa Valley as a premier epicurean destination. Vintner Circle members pair their world-class wines with the talents of award-winning chefs to present a decadent dinner, each of which celebrates one or more of our competition films. Guests share a meal with the respective filmmakers, culminating in the quintessential film, food, and wine experience of our festival.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15
7:30 PM - 10:00 PM THROUGHOUT THE VALLEY Pass Holder Access All Patron Circle Members
MOVIE MOGUL DINNER Our most generous and passionate supporters break bread with the year’s biggest stars. Meadowood’s team of sommeliers will pour a selection of the ultra-exclusive Napa Valley Reserve wines to pair the night’s exquisite menu prepared by James Beard Honoree and Meadowood Estate Chef Alejandro Ayala. 31
FRI NOV. 15
ACUMEN WINES
ARKENSTONE BY PRESS
ASHES & DIAMONDS
“Once Upon a Time in Napa” will pair 100-point scoring “Edcora” Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon and other premiere wines with a Hollywood retro and modern menu by Ken Frank of LaToque. Their art gallery features Chris Camaratta originals and brings NVFF to life at this once-in-a-lifetime dinner.
PRESS Restaurant is a modern steakhouse with distinct Napa Valley flair. The cuisine - like the wine - is rooted in its terroir, letting the ingredients speak for themselves. Wines from Arkenstone Estate on Howell Mountain will be paired with this family-style meal.
Created as a love letter to 1960s Napa Valley, Ashes & Diamonds Winery is the ultimate convergence of modern and old-school flavors. Spend the evening enjoying a delicious meal expertly paired with wines that adhere to an ethos of light-handed winemaking and the transparency of the terroir.
BLACKBIRD VINEYARDS
CALDWELL VINEYARD
CHARLES KRUG WINERY
Join Blackbird Vineyards for an intimate evening at RiverHouse. Your hosts for the evening will be Blackbird Vineyards proprietors John and Julia Hinshaw, and founder Michael Polenske. Take in the art and design of their distinguished gallery before enjoying an exquisite dinner prepared by Chef Morimoto, expertly paired with stunning Blackbird wines.
A film-worthy tale, John Caldwell’s legacy is 123 acres in the Napa Valley, a vineyard of “smuggled” grapevine clones, a spectacular portfolio of wines made by Marc Gagnon, and an estate barrel cooperage managed by Ramiro Herrera, one of only 34 Master Coopers in the world.
Join members of the Mondavi family for an intimate evening, dining in the heart of the Napa Valley’s oldest winery — The Redwood Cellar at the Charles Krug estate. The impressive setting provides a fitting backdrop for the equally superlative cuisine of Napa Valley Chef Tony Spleen.
CLOS DU VAL
COOMBSVILLE VINTNERS & GROWERS
CUVAISON BY CARNEROS RESORT AND SPA
Established in 2011, the Coombsville AVA is dominated by small family-owned and operated wineries making wines guided by a unique terroir. Enjoy an intimate dinner with six boutique wineries hosted by the families that grow them, expertly paired by Chef Daniel Gomez at the Ackerman Heritage House.
Cuvaison Estate Wines and Carneros Resort and Spa are coming together to create an unforgettable dining experience. Indulge in a seasonallyinspired dinner by Carneros’ acclaimed Executive Chef Aaron Meneghelli. Dinner will be sourced from the resort’s onsite culinary garden and paired with wines from Cuvaison’s Los Carneros estate.
47 years ago, Clos Du Val was founded by the Goelet family with a vision of producing Cabernet Sauvignon that would rival the world’s best. Join third-generation owner Olav Goelet for an unforgettable evening of wine, appetizers, and music, followed by a multi-course meal by Executive Chefs Jordan Grosser and Ted Fleury of Stag Dining Group of San Francisco.
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FRI NOV. 15
INGLENOOK Experience the ultimate food and wine pairing at Inglenook, hosted by winemaker Chris Phelps. Their Estate Chef Alex Lovick emphasizes fresh, local, and sustainable ingredients, allowing the bounty of the season to write his menus. You’ll be transported on a culinary journey through four courses interweaving exclusive wines.
RAYMOND VINEYARDS Begin the evening in the opulence of the famous Red Room before embarking on a gastronomic journey. Seated in the glittering hall of the Crystal Cellar, guests will savor a multi-course dinner, paired with limited production Raymond Vineyards wines. The Dress Code is Velvet.
J. LOHR VINEYARDS & WINES
MATERRA | CUNAT FAMILY VINEYARDS
Join winery co-owner Cynthia Lohr and local favorite Chef Elaine Bell for a delicious evening, featuring wines from J. Lohr’s sustainably farmed, estate vineyards. Chef Bell’s seasonal menu is thoughtfully crafted to complement the wine offerings.
Get “down to earth” with Materra | Cunat Family Vineyards. Join owner Brian Cunat at their Oak Knoll District estate for a delicious meal prepared by European-trained Chef Richard Visconte, expertly paired with their award-winning wines.
REVANA FAMILY VINEYARD BY LAS ALCOBAS
REYNOLDS FAMILY WINERY
Located in the heart of the St. Helena AVA, the Revana Estate Vineyard has positioned itself as a producer of world-class Cabernet Sauvignon. Guests will enjoy a four course, farm-to-table, seasonal menu prepared by Acacia House Executive Chef, food visionary, and Top Chef alum, Chris Cosentino.
SHADYBROOK ESTATE WINERY
WOLF FAMILY VINEYARDS BY AUBERGE DU SOLEIL
Enjoy an evening under the stars. Nestled in the heart of Coombsville, this property is home to a premiere horse facility and western barn, state-of-the-art production facility, commercial kitchen, and 4,000square-foot terrace. Spend the evening savoring their boutique, luxury wines, exquisitely paired with seasonal cuisine.
Take in spectacular valley views from the Maison d’Arbre, a private dining venue perched at the highest point of the property. Delight in canapés and a delectable threecourse Michelin Star dining experience, expertly prepared by Executive Chef Robert Curry, and paired with premiere, local wines by Wolf Family Vineyards.
Winemaker Steve Reynolds and his wife, Suzie, invite you to an evening of culinary creations and hand-crafted wines at their winery on the acclaimed Silverado Trail. The evening promises great storytelling while sipping coveted wines (and perhaps some Penta tequila), paired with locallygrown and farm-raised ingredients.
ZD WINES Enjoy an evening centered on rare wines, paired with exquisite cuisine from Chef Casey Thompson. Begin with a behindthe-scenes look at the recently renovated property and sample some of their 50th Anniversary wines and coming vintages. Enjoy dinner seated above the Rutherford vineyards to the west. Your hosts for the evening will be the deLeuze Family and the winemakers of ZD.
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W E L L -BE H AV E D P EOP L E S E L D OM M A K E H I S T OR Y Home to 123 acres, 21 estate wines, 6 of the original “smuggled” French grapevine clones, and an estate barrel cooperage with one of 34 master coopers in the world.
[ 38° 17' N. Latitude, 122° 14' W. Longitude ]
Experience Experience the legend and thelegend lore ofand Napa Valley’s original and his wines | caldwellvineyard.com the the lore of Napa maverick Valley’s original maverick and his wines
FRI NOV. 15
FRIDAY NIGHT BASH
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 10:00 PM - 2:00 AM MARTIN | ST. HELENA
Pass Holder Access All Pass Plus, All Patron Circle Members
Join us at Erin Martin’s famed gallery for one of the most highly anticipated parties of the festival. This aesthetically rich and visually provocative space combines the ingenuity of design with the rustic essence of the Napa Valley. Indulge in the decadence and outrageousness that is bound to ensue at one of the festival’s liveliest afterparties.
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S AT NOV. 16
RISING STAR SHOWCASE
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM MATERRA | CUNAT FAMILY VINEYARDS | NAPA
The Rising Star Showcase is an opportunity to highlight the accomplishments of some of the most promising young talent in the industry. Set before a sweeping valley landscape at Materra | Cunat Family Vineyards, the Showcase includes an extended interactive conversation with this year’s Rising Stars, as well as a sampling of the estate’s finest assortment of wine and light bites.
Pass Holder Access All Patron Circle Members
RISING STAR
RISING STAR
ALEXA DEMIE
DANIELLE MACDONALD
Alexa Demie will soon be seen in the A24 feature film Waves, directed by Trey Edward Schultz and opposite Lucas Hedges, Sterling K. Brown, and Kelvin Harrison Jr. She currently plays the role of Maddy on the HBO series Euphoria by creator Sam Levinson, and opposite Zendaya and Storm Reid. Recently, Demie appeared in Jonah Hill’s directorial debut, Mid90s. She can also be seen in Brigsby Bear, Miles, and Judd Apatow’s Netflix series Love.
Danielle Macdonald was born and raised in Sydney, Australia. At the age of 18, she moved to Los Angeles full-time, in pursuit of acting. Audiences know Macdonald for her breakout role as Patti in Fox Searchlight’s Patti Cake$, as well as the titular role of Dumplin’, opposite Jennifer Aniston. Macdonald also appeared in Netflix’s Bird Box, opposite Sandra Bullock. Macdonald can now be seen in Netflix’s series Unbelievable, which premiered in early September.
RISING STAR
RISING STAR
JACOB ELORDI
KELVIN HARRISON JR.
Jacob Elordi is currently a lead in Sam Levinson’s HBO hit drama series Euphoria, which was announced to be renewed for a second season. Last year, Elordi garnered attention playing the charming football star Noah Flynn in Netflix’s The Kissing Booth. Since its release, the film has gone on to become one of Netflix’s most watched movies and launched Elordi’s career, putting him at #1 on the IMDb STARmeter and naming him as one of IMDb’s Top Break Out Stars of 2018.
Kelvin Harrison Jr. is bringing to life some of the most dynamic and diverse characters on screens both big and small. Audiences first fell in love with Harrison in his leading roles in All Rise and Monsters And Men at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. This year, Kelvin captivates as the lead of the drama Luce in which he plays the title character opposite Octavia Spencer. Next up, Kelvin stars in the A24 drama Waves, which has garnered early Oscar buzz.
RISING STAR
RISING STAR
LIANA LIBERATO
MENA MASSOUD
Liana Liberato can currently be seen in a leading role on the Hulu series, Light as a Feather. Liana stars opposite Tony Hale and Malin Akerman in the indie To the Stars that premiered to rave reviews at Sundance 2019. Earlier in 2018, Liana was seen in the indie feature Measure of a Man opposite Judy Greer, Luke Wilson, and Donald Sutherland. She first garnered critical acclaim at the age of 14 for her performance in Trust opposite Clive Owen and Catherine Keener.
Mena Massoud is a young actor, making his mark with distinct choices in film and television. Currently, Massoud can be seen worldwide, starring in the title role of the hugely successful Disney live-action reimagining of Aladdin, directed by Guy Ritchie, and co-starring Will Smith and Naomi Scott. In December, Massoud will be seen starring in the new Hulu drama series Reprisal, co-starring Abigail Spencer and Rodrigo Santoro, as well as in NVFF19 feature film Run This Town.
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S AT NOV. 16
FESTIVAL GALA
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
9:00 PM - 1:00 AM *7:00 pm Gala Film, I Want My MTV See page 91 for film information. LINCOLN THEATER | YOUNTVILLE Pass Holder Access Ticket Holders, All Pass Plus, All Patron Circle Members NPACLT Stacked Logo Color
The film I Want My MTV (pg. 91) sets the stage for a night of neon nostalgia, complete with live musical performances by Thumpasaurus and a surprise musical guest. As always, formal wear is encouraged, but this time... make it 80s. Celebrate the ninth annual festival with the year’s most fabulous party. Enjoy the film, sample food, wine and cocktails from epicurean and winery partners throughout the Valley, and enjoy live entertainment all night long.
Spot Colors
Patron Circle members receive an elevated culinary experience in the elegant and private Patron Circle Lounge. PMS 4515
For featured epicurean and winery partners, see pg. 124. 38
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PMS warm gray 9
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ON SCREEN 39
PROGRAMMERS’ NOTE A YEAR OF DISCOVERY
As we embark on our journey into the ninth annual festival, we are elated and invigorated by the tides of transformation which are represented throughout the program curation and festival footprint. This year’s official selections have been identified and programmed for their emotional complexity and overall ability to instill a multifaceted response from our audiences. What better way to showcase this concept than to present cinematic works of art which possess the ability to create change, inspire innovation, and present the duality of the human condition. You may find yourself cackling just moments after your eyes began to mist over, or you may find yourself inspired to take immense action to advocate for a cause you knew nothing about before you walked into the theater. Through the actions of diverse characters, as well as various groups and organizations represented in these films, roads of impact and metamorphosis are paved through collaboration, perseverance, creativity, and determination. In honoring Cinema Napa Valley’s mission to inspire and educate, we are bringing films into the schools which advocate for environmental impact awareness and local farming practices, which enlighten students on the topics of bees, recycling, using technology to control the chaos left in the wake of natural disasters, and the overall importance of smart and impactful
Whitney Haskin DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING
decision making. The themes present within our full program all link back to the overall importance of understanding one’s own power and ability to be a catalyst for creative change. Additionally, the Artistsin-Residence Program presented by Meadowood Napa Valley returns to the festival for a multi-day workshop and intimate masterclass series intended to help propel the careers of our feature competition directors, and enhance the success of the films they are showcasing at the festival. Since its inception, this lustrous and breathtaking five-day celebration has been dedicated to the notion that we are the summation of our best features; film, food, and wine. Now, moving into the future of the festival and our organization as a whole, we are actively creating and showcasing content which engages the three distinctive attributes of our event and cultivates an experience that brings them together as one entity. NVFF19’s shining example of this concept is our brand new Blending Lab, a series of panels and conversations taking place on a glorious outdoor stage at the Farmstead at Longmeadow Ranch property in St. Helena, CA. Each panel effortlessly integrates the film world with that of food and wine, in an entertaining and informative romp. Our celebration of film, food, and wine is intended to enthrall you in our unique experience, as well as satiate your hunger for educational and refreshing entertainment. In the same way that we look to our esteemed Jury members for their responses to our films in competitive categories, your voices also echo the desires and interests that fuel our annual curations. Thank you for your continued support and for your passion for the various creative arts. We are honored and thrilled to accompany you on this sensorial and cinematic journey throughout our beloved Valley.
Amy Brown PROGRAMMING + FILM DATABASE MANAGER
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STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
Catch a sneak peek of films hitting theaters later this year and films sure to garner Awards Season buzz.
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STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
CLEMENCY Courtesy of Neon Years of carrying out death row executions have taken a toll on prison warden Bernadine Williams. The emotional wedge in her marriage grows and memories of a recently botched execution plague her daily. As she prepares to end the life of another inmate, Bernadine must confront the psychological and emotional demons her job creates, ultimately connecting her to the man she is sanctioned to execute. Run Time 112 min Director Chinonye Chukwu Producers Timur Bekbosunov, Julian Cautherley, Bronwyn Cornelius, Peter Wong Screenwriter Chinonye Chukwu Key Cast Alfre Woodard, Aldis Hodge, Wendell Price, Richard Schiff, Danielle Brooks
CHINONYE CHUKWU is a filmmaker, educator, and social justice advocate. She is the founder of Pens to Pictures, a filmmaking collaborative that teaches and empowers incarcerated women to make their own short films from script to screen. Chinonye’s next feature film will be A Taste of Power, based on the memoir by the first and only female leader of the Black Panther Party, Elaine Brown.
This program is generously supported by Carla Buffington + Jeffrey Wilcox
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STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
FORD v FERRARI Courtesy of 20th Century Fox Ford v Ferrari is inspired by the remarkable true story of visionary American car designer Carroll Shelby and the fearless British driver Ken Miles. Carroll and Ken battled corporate interference, the laws of physics, and their own personal demons to build a revolutionary race car for Ford Motor Company. The car they built would take on the dominating race cars of Enzo Ferrari at the 24 Hours of Le Mans in France in 1966. Run Time 152 min Director James Mangold Producers Peter Chernin, James Mangold, Jenno Topping Screenwriter Jez Butterworth, John-Henry Butterworth, Jason Keller Key Cast Matt Damon, Christian Bale, Jon Bernthal, Caitriona Balfe, Tracy Letts, Josh Lucas, Noah Jupe, Remo Girone, Ray McKinnon This program is generously supported by Daniel Schryer
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JAMES MANGOLD is an Oscar nominated writer and director. Award-winning films Mangold has written and directed include Heavy, Cop Land, Girl Interrupted, Walk the Line, 3:10 to Yuma, and Logan. Ford v Ferrari is his tenth feature.
STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
JUST MERCY Courtesy of Warner Bros.
DESTIN DANIEL CRETTON is an awardwinning filmmaker known for his work on Short Term 12 and The Glass Castle. Destin co-wrote the screenplay for Just Mercy with Andrew Lanham, based on Stevenson’s book Just Mercy: A Story of Justice and Redemption.
A powerful and thought-provoking true story, Just Mercy follows young lawyer Bryan Stevenson and his history-making battle for justice. After graduating from Harvard, Bryan has his pick of lucrative jobs. Instead, he heads to Alabama to defend those wrongly condemned or those who were not afforded proper representation, with the support of local advocate Eva Ansley. In the years that follow, Bryan becomes embroiled in a labyrinth of legal and political maneuverings, while also navigating acts of overt and unabashed racism, as he fights for the lives of the wrongfully convicted with the odds—and the system—stacked against them. Run Time 136 min Director Destin Daniel Cretton Producers Asher Goldstein, Gil Netter Screenwriters Destin Daniel Cretton, Andrew Lanham, Bryan Stevenson Key Cast Michael B. Jordan, Brie Larson, Jamie Foxx This program is generously supported by Commissioner Mae C. Woo + Chris Woo
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STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
PORTRAIT OF A LADY ON FIRE Courtesy of Neon In 1760s France, Marianne is commissioned to paint the wedding portrait of Héloïse, a young woman who has just left the convent. Marianne arrives under the guise of companionship with the reluctant bride-to-be, observing Héloïse by day and secretly painting her by firelight at night. As the two women orbit one another, intimacy and attraction grow as they share Héloïse’s first moments of freedom. Héloïse’s portrait soon becomes a collaborative act of and testament to their love. Run Time 121 min Director Céline Sciamma Producers Véronique Cayla, Bénédicte Couvreur Screenwriter Céline Sciamma Key Cast Noémie Merlant, Adèle Haenel This program is generously supported by Terri Carlisle 46
CÉLINE SCIAMMA writes for film and television, and debuted as a director with Water Lilies. Her second feature film Tomboy won awards at the Berlin and Odessa International Film Festivals. Her coming-of-age-drama Girlhood won three awards in the first year after premiering, including the Bronze Horse at the Stockholm Film Festival.
STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
TO THE STARS Courtesy of Samuel Goldwyn Films Iris, a bespectacled and reclusive teen living in a god-fearing Oklahoma town in the 1960s, endures the booze-induced antics of her mother and daily doses of bullying from her classmates. She finds solace in Maggie, the charismatic and enigmatic new girl at school, who hones in on Iris’s untapped potential and coaxes her out of her shell. When Maggie’s mysterious past can no longer be suppressed, the small community is thrown into a state of panic, leaving Maggie to take potentially drastic measures and inciting Iris to stand up for her friend and herself.
MARTHA STEPHENS directed the microbudget feature films Passenger Pigeons and Pilgrim Song, both of which premiered at the SXSW Film Festival. Martha co-wrote and co-directed Land Ho!, which premiered at the 2014 Sundance Film Festival. The film was acquired by Sony Pictures Classics and won the John Cassavetes Award at the 2015 Film Independent Spirit Awards.
Run Time 111 min Director Martha Stephens Producers Gavin Dorman, Stacy Jorgensen, Kristin Mann, Laura D. Smith-Ireland Screenwriter Shannon Bradley-Colleary Key Cast Kara Hayward, Liana Liberato, Malin Akerman, Tony Hale, Shea Whigham, Adelaide Clemens This program is generously supported by The Gardner Grout Foundation 47
STUDIO SPOTLIGHT
TROOP ZERO Courtesy of Amazon Studios In a tiny Georgia town in 1977, a motherless girl named Christmas Flint dreams of life beyond the confines of her trailer-park home and hopes to make contact with outer space. When Christmas learns that the winners of the annual Birdie Scout Jamboree talent contest will be included on a recording to be sent into space for posterity, she tries to join the local Scouts troop. When she is rejected by the snobbish group of girls and their uptight leader Miss Massey, Christmas rallies a group of elementaryschool outliers to start their own chapter. Troop Zero is an endearing and magical tale of friendship and individuality. Run Time 94 min Directors Bert & Bertie Producers Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch Screenwriter Lucy Alibar Key Cast Viola Davis, Mckenna Grace, Jim Gaffigan, Mike Epps, Charles Shotwell, Allison Janney This program is generously supported by Irene + Ed Ojdana 48
BERT & BERTIE are a female writingdirecting duo from London with their own unique style of storytelling and playful realism. They have earned multiple short film awards including a BAFTA, paving their way to the world of feature films.
FESTIVAL JURY Each year a set of experienced filmmakers, writers, and industry professionals decide award winners in the following categories: NARRATIVE COMPETITIONS, DOCUMENTARY COMPETITIONS, VERGE, NARRATIVE SHORTS, and DOCUMENTARY SHORTS.
LISA WHALEN Lisa Whalen has previously held corporate positions with NBCUniversal, FOX Broadcasting, and Katz Media. She first worked with SpectreVision on the Chiller Films production of The Boy. Shortly after, Lisa joined SpectreVision as CEO.
ALECE OXENDINE
WILLIAM FICHTNER
Alece Oxendine has contributed to art house theaters BAMcinématek and Film at Lincoln Center, streaming platform Fandor, and the distribution companies Distribber and Good Deed Entertainment. She is currently the Director of Industry and Festival Outreach at Columbia University.
William Fichtner is an actor and director known for his work in Armageddon, 12 Strong, and NVFF award-winning features American Wrestler and Cold Brook.
DAVE KARGER
BECCA GLEASON
Dave Karger is an award-winning host, interviewer, and entertainment commentator. He’s a host on Turner Classic Movies and a special correspondent for IMDb. He has also made over 200 appearances on NBC’s Today Show.
Becca Gleason has written and directed three short films and feature film Summer ‘03, which made the rounds on the festival circuit, including NVFF18. She has spent the last few years directing series and shorts for digital companies like AwesomenessTV and NewForm Digital.
ROCHELLE ROSE
BRENDA STRONG
Rochelle Rose is the National Director of Actors Programs at the SAG-AFTRA Foundation, an Emmy-nominated producer, and an actor. Rose produces over 1,200 workshops, classes, panels, and career retrospectives for 30,000 actors annually.
Two-time Emmy nominee and SAG Awardwinner Brenda Strong has most recently been seen in shows such as Netflix’s 13 Reasons Why and the CW’s Supergirl.
JANIS PLOTKIN
RICHARD KEITH
Janis Plotkin is currently the Program Director at the Berkeley FILM Foundation, which supports independent filmmakers living or working in the East Bay. She has previous involvement with multiple Bay Area film festivals and produced the film Plastic Man: The Artful Life of Jerry Ross Barrish.
Richard Keith is a writer, producer, and director who recently signed a multi-year overall deal at Warner Bros. Television to develop and produce original TV series for broadcast and cable under their In Good Company banner.
SCOTT FEINBERG
ALEXANDRA LEXTON
The Hollywood Reporter’s Scott Feinberg is one of Hollywood’s most experienced, trusted and widelyread awards columnists, employing his writing and interviewing abilities, knowledge of showbiz history and deep Rolodex to take THR readers behind-the-scenes of and inside the annual Oscar, Emmy and Tony races.
Alexandra Lexton is a film producer and founder of LEX Productions, which develops and produces art house films. She also founded the Bay Area Pacific Filmmakers’ Forum.
RYAN HARRINGTON
MIA GALUPPO
Ryan Harrington is the VP of National Geographic Documentary Films where he develops, commissions, and acquires theatrical feature and short docs for cinematic release. He has dedicated his career to nurturing and empowering numerous filmmakers and documentaries.
Mia Galuppo is a staff writer at The Hollywood Reporter, covering the film industry. She reports on Hollywood trends and profiles talent from the independent space, the studio system, and everywhere in between.
FELICITY WREN
MIGUEL MARTINEZ
Felicity Wren is the Development Director at the International Screenwriters’ Association. Felicity’s focus is to support the development of writers and to provide guidance, notes, and access to industry professionals.
Miguel Martinez is an Emmy and Grammynominated film director and international photographer. His feature directorial debut Farewell Ferris Wheel played at NVFF16.
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ARTISTS-IN-RESIDENCE PROGRAM This year, sixteen films will vie for the respective titles of Best Narrative Competition Feature and Best Documentary Competition Feature, as determined by our esteemed juries. The directors of these films will also participate in the festival’s unique Artists-in-Residence Program presented by Meadowood Napa Valley. The residency program includes masterclasses and breakout sessions with industry leaders, as well as networking opportunities at special events throughout the festival.
NARRATIVE COMPETITION Bring Me An Avocado, directed by Maria Mealla Here Awhile, directed by Tim True Justine, directed by Stephanie Turner Lucky Grandma, directed by Sasie Sealy The Nomads, directed by Brandon Eric Kamin Run This Town, directed by Ricky Tollman Standing Up, Falling Down, directed by Matt Ratner Stealing School, directed by Li Dong
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DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION I Am Human, directed by Taryn Southern and Elena Gaby Latter Day Jew, directed by Aliza Rosen Motherload, directed by Liz Canning The Pollinators, directed by Peter Nelson The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion, directed by Lisa Cortes and Farah X The Story of Plastic, directed by Deia Schlosberg This Is My Home, directed by Karl Nickoley Well Groomed, directed by Rebecca Stern
FEATURED INDUSTRY PANELISTS A talented set of industry professionals share their insights and expertise with our competition filmmakers at the Artists-in-Residence Program. To see the full list of faculty and panelists, please visit our website.
MATTHEW CHANDLER
BRADLEY GALLO
Matthew Chandler is the founder of the distribution and impact agency Indie Visible. He guides films through the design of impactful and successful creative distribution strategies.
Bradley M. Gallo has 20 years of media and entertainment industry experience, including film, television, commercials, and journalism. Currently, he serves as Chief Creative Officer/ Partner for Amasia Entertainment.
DARRIEN MICHELE GIPSON
JESSICA S. HINDS
Darrien Michele Gipson is the Executive Director of SAGindie, an educational resource for independent producers looking to hire professional actors. Darrien was formerly the Vice President of Production for DEF Pictures.
Jessica S. Hinds is an award-winning writer, teacher, and creator of Meditative Writing. She recently launched the artists community The Science and Art of Writing and is currently working on a book series, The Prolific Writers’ Guide: Meditative Writing.
JESS KWAN
YVONNE HUFF LEE
Jess Kwan is a Vice President at Archer Gray, where she is involved in all investment activity across Archer Gray’s various businesses. She leads their content financing strategy in social issue documentaries and digital projects.
Yvonne Huff Lee is Co-CEO of Lagralane Group. Through Lagralane, Yvonne has breathed life into a diverse slate of films. Yvonne currently serves as president of the board at Lower Depth Theatre Ensemble and is also a board member of Array Alliance.
JASON DELANE LEE
LIZ MANASHIL
Jason Delane Lee is Co-CEO of the Lagralane Group. Through his work at Lagralane, Jason co-executive produced the 2018 Academy Award-winning documentary Icarus. He is also a founding member of the Los Angeles-based Lower Depth Theatre Ensemble.
Liz Manashil has spent several years as a film critic for the PBS/Hulu series, Just Seen It. She was the Manager of Sundance Institute’s Creative Distribution Initiative and now is the Senior Manager, Impact Distribution at Picture Motion.
MAX TIMM
NADINE NETTMANN
Max Timm is the Director of Education at the International Screenwriters’ Association and the President of The Story Farm Development and Coaching service, with 15 years of experience in developing written material and writers’ careers.
Nadine Nettmann is a certified sommelier, award-nominated author of the Sommelier Mystery Series, and a television and documentary film producer currently working at SOMM TV.
NINA DOBREV Nina Dobrev has amassed an impressive resume of diverse and memorable roles. She starred in the fan favorite The Vampire Diaries, and most recently in the multi-cam comedy Fam. She can next be seen in Roger Avary’s Lucky Day as well as the NVFF19 feature film Run This Town.
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NARRATIVE COMPETITION
Up-and-coming directors offer a fresh perspective on narrative storytelling and create films that are moving, inspiring, and thought-provoking.
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NARRATIVE COMPETITION
BRING ME AN AVOCADO Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Robin and George are living a happy life with their two daughters when an unexpected and traumatic event leaves Robin in a coma. While Robin remains at the hospital, George does his best to keep a sense of normalcy for his children. Robin’s sister, Greece, and best friend, Jada, step in as surrogate mothers upon observing that George clearly needs some help around the house. For a time, the family finds themselves in a vacation-like state, packed with fun activities that absorb the shock of Robin’s absence. As Robin’s stay in the hospital continues, everyone begins to come to terms with their grief in unexpected ways, all the while maintaining a shared hope that Robin will wake up and return home. Run Time 99 min Director Maria Mealla Producers Bianca Beyrouti, Natalie Conneely, Alex Mallonee, Natasha Chee Screenwriter Maria Mealla Key Cast Bernardo Peña, Sarah Burkhalter, Molly Ratermann, Candace Roberts
MARIA MEALLA was born in Bolivia and currently resides in San Francisco. After she wrote and directed her first feature, Women and Cigarettes, she went on to direct a collection of short films titled Business Affairs before directing her second feature, Bring Me an Avocado. Maria is the chapter leader of the SF Cinefemme Director’s Collective and works as a video producer throughout the Bay Area.
This program is generously supported by Janet Effland + William Urbach 53
NARRATIVE COMPETITION
HERE AWHILE Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Anna arrives in Portland to reconnect with her estranged brother, Michael, who she has not seen in 15 years. Shortly after arriving, Anna reveals that she has been diagnosed with terminal cancer and that she plans to end her life utilizing Oregon’s unique Death with Dignity Act. While Michael begs her to reconsider, Anna insists that her mind is made up. The siblings are joined by a group of friends and loved ones and, through a series of adventures, the group gets closer and ultimately comes together to celebrate Anna’s life. Run Time 85 min Director Tim True Producers Deborah Lee Smith, Tim True, Csaba Mera, Alyssa Roehrenbeck Screenwriters Csaba Mera, Tim True Key Cast Anna Camp, Steven Strait, Joe Lo Truglio This program is generously supported by Brenda + Marc Lhormer
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TIM TRUE comes from a lifelong background in theatre performance. In 2005, Tim co-founded the regional Third Rail Repertory Theatre in Portland, Oregon. The inaugural production garnered the company major recognition by Portland’s Theatre awards, including an award for outstanding production. Since moving to Los Angeles in 2013, Tim has guest starred on multiple well-known television shows.
NARRATIVE COMPETITION
JUSTINE Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Lisa, a struggling single mother, takes a job as a nanny to Justine, an 8-year-old girl with spina bifida. Justine’s strict parents have decided to home-school Justine and keep her isolated, due to her condition, permitting occasional visits to the local park as her only connection to the outside world. Determined to help Justine make friends her own age and live a normal life, Lisa introduces Justine to her young son and daughter. However, as time goes on, it becomes clear that Justine’s parents and Lisa have conflicting views on much more than parenting. Run Time 107 min Director Stephanie Turner Producers Angie Edgar, Louise Shore Screenwriter Stephanie Turner Key Cast Glynn Turman, Darby Stanchfield, Josh Stamberg, Daisy Prescott, Stephanie Turner
STEPHANIE TURNER is a writer/director who has been a working actress, living in Los Angeles for the past 15 years. Her big break came while working opposite Jane Fonda in the hit comedy Monster in Law. Stephanie was the lead in the short film Surrogate, which she produced with Damien Chazelle. She recently had a supporting role in First Man and has appeared in several television and film projects.
This program is generously supported by Beth + John Allen
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NARRATIVE COMPETITION
LUCKY GRANDMA Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Despite the worry of her family, an ornery and chain-smoking Chinese grandmother is eager to live life as an independent woman after finding herself recently widowed. When a local fortune teller predicts a most auspicious day in her future, Grandma decides to head to the casino and goes all in, hoping to win enough money to keep her apartment. As luck would have it, the night goes awry and Grandma becomes a target of some local gangsters. Desperate to protect herself, Grandma employs the services of a bodyguard from a rival gang. She and the bodyguard form an unlikely friendship as the two find themselves in the middle of a gang war in New York City’s Chinatown. Run Time 87 min Director Sasie Sealy Producers Cara Marcous, Krista Parris Screenwriter Angela Cheng, Sasie Sealy Key Cast Tsai Chin, Corey Ha, Michael Tow, Woody Fu, Yan Xi, Wai Ching Ho, Clem Cheung This program is generously supported by Commissioner Mae C. Woo + Chris Woo 56
SASIE SEALY is a writer/director from North Carolina. Her short films and episodic work have earned her multiple awards. She has directed multiple projects for Amazon and, most recently, an episode of Fresh Off the Boat. Sasie is currently based in New York City where she directs commercials as part of Bullitt Branded.
NARRATIVE COMPETITION
THE NOMADS Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Based on a true story, The Nomads follows a North Philadelphia school district faced with a massive budget deficit, leading to the unprecedented decision by the School Reform Commission to close over 20 public schools. With thousands of students and teachers displaced and merged together, a teacher starts a boys rugby team to provide an outlet for her students. Without any resources and against the odds of their inner-city environment, the team becomes a staple program and beacon of hope within the community. Run Time 97 min Director Brandon Eric Kamin Producers Brandon Eric Kamin, Miriam Marcus, Mark Donadio, Aimee McDaniel, Tika Sumpter Screenwriter Tara Miele Key Cast Tika Sumpter, Tate Donovan
BRANDON ERIC KAMIN is a first-time director and producer from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Determined to create films that inspire, Brandon founded Bear Bear Productions after undergrad in 2011. The Nomads marks his inaugural feature film.
This program is generously supported by Daniel Schryer
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NARRATIVE COMPETITION
RUN THIS TOWN Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley After graduation, Bram gets his dream job at a local newspaper. Eager to be an investigative journalist, Bram becomes discouraged when, after a year working for the paper, he is still writing clickbait and Top 10 lists. After the paper is hit with another round of layoffs, Bram stumbles upon a potentially explosive story involving the city’s controversial mayor. While he is trying to uncover this story, the political aides under the mayor are navigating their own issues, and struggling between keeping their jobs and handling their corrupt boss. Run Time 98 min Director Ricky Tollman Producers Randy Manis, Jonathan Bronfman, Ricky Tollman Screenwriter Ricky Tollman Key Cast Ben Platt, Mena Massoud, Nina Dobrev, Damian Lewis, Jennifer Ehle, Scott Speedman This program is generously supported by Naomi + Patrick Davila
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RICKY TOLLMAN is a native of Johannesburg, South Africa. Run This Town marks his directorial debut. His next projects include a television series based on the GQ article The Orthodox Hit Squad by Matthew Shaer and a political drama set in 1960s Berlin.
NARRATIVE COMPETITION
STANDING UP, FALLING DOWN Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley After a failed stint as a stand-up comedian in Los Angeles, Scott returns home to Long Island. He’s humiliated to move back in with his family and haunted by what could have been with Becky, the hometown girlfriend he left behind. Wracked with doubt and facing the prospect of a soul-crushing “real” job, Scott finds an unexpected connection with Marty, a charming and charismatic dermatologist with a penchant for karaoke. Scott learns that Marty’s antics and alcoholism mask past disappointments of his own. The two develop a friendship of shared misery that leads to humor, healing, and growth. Run Time 91 min Director Matt Ratner Producers Chris Mangano, Gabrielle Nadig, John Hermann, Matt Ratner, Rick Rosenthal Screenwriter Peter Hoare Key Cast Billy Crystal, Ben Schwartz, Eloise Mumford, Grace Gummer, Caitlin McGee, David Castaneda, Debra Monk, Jill Hennessy
After studying theater at Northwestern University, and spending several years working in politics and at the Department of Justice, MATT RATNER moved to Los Angeles and started Tilted Windmill Productions. Matt has produced eight films, including Manson Family Vacation, and Punching Henry. Standing Up, Falling Down is his first feature as a director.
This program is generously supported by Lily + David Allen-Hughes 59
NARRATIVE COMPETITION
STEALING SCHOOL Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley A week before her college graduation, April Chen, a ChineseCanadian tech prodigy, is accused of plagiarism by an unrelenting teaching assistant. Now, she must fight to prove her innocence in a secret trial held before an academic tribunal. As the day progresses, the motives and interests of all parties are slowly exposed to reveal a complex web of corruption, greed, and personal moral failings. In this game of psychological cat and mouse, someone is always one step ahead and nothing is as it seems. Run Time 74 min Director Li Dong Producers Mark Sirju, Li Dong Screenwriter Li Dong Key Cast Celine Tsai, Jonathan Keltz, Michelle Monteith, Mpho Koaho, Darrin Baker, Jonathan Malen, Matthew Edison, Vas Saranga This program is generously supported by Kim + Dan Johnson
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LI DONG is an award-winning writer and director, currently living and working in Toronto, Canada. Li graduated from Dalhousie University with honors in English and history, and then went on to graduate from Dalhousie Law School. After law school, Li was hand-selected by Werner Herzog for his Rogue Film School. Li has since gone on to write and direct numerous short narratives, documentaries, and music videos.
DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
New voices in documentary filmmaking create powerful works to inform, educate, and entertain.
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DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
I AM HUMAN Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley I Am Human follows the journeys of three of the world’s first “cyborgs.” A paraplegic, a former artist with Parkinson’s, and a blind retiree are all using brain implant technology to regain abilities they previously lived without. With the help of scientists and entrepreneurs, the subjects grapple with experimental brain tech and mankind is forced to reconcile with humanity’s quiet march down a new evolutionary path. While some worry that incorporating too much technology will propel humanity down a slippery slope, others are hopeful that innovation will lead us all into a brighter future. Run Time 90 min Directors Elena Gaby, Taryn Southern Producers Taryn Southern, Elena Gaby Key Cast Bryan Johnson, David Eagleman, Ramez Naam, John Donoghue, Andres Lozano, Miguel Nicoleilis This program is generously supported by Erika + Michael Mountanos
Filmmaker TARYN SOUTHERN produced the world’s first solo pop album composed with artificial intelligence and released a corresponding award-winning experimental VR series funded by Google.
ELENA GABY is a Brazilian-American filmmaker whose credits include docuseries and films such as Showtime’s Seven Deadly Sins, CNN’s The Hunt with John Walsh, Vlogumentary, and Super Size Me 2.
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DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
LATTER DAY JEW Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Latter Day Jew follows H. Alan Scott, a gay comedian who grew up Mormon, survived cancer, converted to Judaism, and is now preparing to be Bar Mitzvahed at the age of 34. On his path to becoming a member of the Jewish faith, H. Alan interviews the Jewish people who have greatly influenced his life and helped to encourage him to be the man he is today. His story, both humorous and very poignant, communicates a universal message about finding your place in the world and discovering your true identity. Run Time 81 min Director Aliza Rosen Producers Todd Shotz, Kelly Woyan This program is generously supported by Janice Turner
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ALIZA ROSEN has been producing, directing, and writing documentary television for more than 20 years. She was Executive Vice President of Development for S3 Productions and is co-founder of Watercooler Productions. Her previous work includes The Case Of: JonBenĂŠt Ramsey, The Case of: Caylee Anthony, Farm Kings, Curvy Girls, The Last Goodbye, Killer Profile, Who Does She Think She Is?!, and My Life Translated.
DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
MOTHERLOAD Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Liz Canning, an active new mother, explores the cargo bicycle movement as a way to decrease carbon emissions while engaging the whole family and local community in exercise. Eager to learn more, Liz meets fellow mothers and cyclists who are trading in their cars for purpose-built bikes. However, the cargo bike movement has its share of controversy in the form of “bikelash”; public outrage towards the women and mothers that chose this alternative mode of transportation for themselves and their families. From cycling suffragettes to the modern gas driven world, Motherload explores the bicycle’s potential to change the world. Run Time 86 min Director Liz Canning Producers Marilyn DeLaure, Liz MacGregor, Erica Tanamachi, Arleen Macglade Key Cast Ross Evans, Joe Breeze, Emily Finch, Josef Bray-Ali
Since 2000, LIZ CANNING has worked as a professional filmmaker focused on editing and animation for documentaries. She has also worked at San Francisco’s Artists Television Access and Film Arts Foundation. Liz produced and edited American Blackout, which won a Sundance Special Jury Prize.
This program is generously supported by Carolina + Barry Gustin
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DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
THE POLLINATORS Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley The Pollinators is a cinematic journey around the United States, following migratory beekeepers and their truckloads of honey bees as they pollinate the flowers that become the fruits, nuts, and vegetables we all eat. The many challenges the beekeepers and their bees face en route reveal flaws to our simplified, chemically-dependent agriculture system. While honey bees pollinate one third of the food we eat, the honey bee populations in the United States has fallen by half since the 1940s and continue to decline. Farmers, scientists, chefs, and academics discuss the threats to honey bees, what it means to our food security, and how we can improve it. Run Time 93 min Director Peter Nelson Producers Sally Roy, Peter Nelson, Michael Reuter This program is generously supported by Pepper + Michael Jackson
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PETER NELSON has been a Director of Photography for the past 27 years and has a diverse body of work including documentaries, feature films, and commercials. Peter has done domestic and international documentary work for PBS, HBO, National Geographic, Discovery, and the BBC. His credits include Art & Copy, Sicko, A Tale of Two Pizzas, Pipe Dream, Suits, and Ed’s Next Move.
DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
THE REMIX: HIP HOP X FASHION Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion tells the story of how hip hop revolutionized the fashion industry and follows the groundbreaking fashion designers who create the clothing for hip hop royalty and have influenced the international rise of street wear. Remixing – the art of taking an existing product and turning it into something new – is a well known element of hip hop music. These designers use the art of remixing in clothes to deconstruct fashion and create something truly innovative and unique in design. The Remix: Hip Hop X Fashion is a journey of African American creativity and the limitless possibilities of a cultural movement on a global scale. Run Time 67 min Directors Lisa Cortes, Farah X Producer Lisa Cortes Screenwriters Andrew Mer, Emil Wilbekin, Farah X, Lisa Cortes Key Cast Misa Hylton, April Walker, Dapper Dan, Kerby Jean-Raymond
LISA CORTÉS is an Academy Award nominated producer and director whose credits include Precious and The Apollo. Her work has been distinguished by her commitment to empowering inclusive voices and for giving light to challenging, visionary stories.
FARAH X is an award-winning director and editor. She has worked closely with music industry icons including Beyoncé, Mariah Carey, and Prince.
This program is generously supported by Michele + David Glasser 67
DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
THE STORY OF PLASTIC Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley The Story of Plastic uncovers the truth behind plastic pollution and the false solution of plastic recycling. The film presents a cohesive timeline of how the current global plastic pollution crisis came to be and how the oil and gas industry has successfully manipulated the narrative around it. Traversing the globe, audiences are introduced to the opposing forces behind one of the world’s most pressing environmental issues – from the extraction of fossil fuels to plastic disposal, and the global resistance taking action. Run Time 93 min Director Deia Schlosberg Producers Deia Schlosberg, Stiv Wilson, Megan Ponder, Kyle Cadotte, Seven McDonald Screenwriters Deia Schlosberg, Stiv Wilson, Tony Hale This program is generously supported by Stephanie + Michael Woods
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DEIA SCHLOSBERG made national news in October 2016, when she was arrested and charged with 45 years’ worth of felonies for filming the #ShutItDown pipeline protest in North Dakota. Deia produced Josh Fox’s climate change film How to Let Go of the World and Love All the Things Climate Can’t Change and co-produced Awake, A Dream from Standing Rock, and The Reluctant Radical.
DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
THIS IS MY HOME Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Irish-born Dave Rooney and Dave Browne created a band called The Black Donnellys, and have played all over the world. The bandmates currently hold the Guinness World Records for marathon guitar-playing and for the longest concert ever held. Now, they are attempting to achieve their third world record by playing 60 shows in all 50 US states in just 35 days. While touring the states in their beatup RV, Dave and Dave meet people from all over the country who discuss the American Dream from an immigrant’s perspective. While we may come from different places and have different viewpoints, music has the power to connect us all. Run Time 89 min Director Karl Nickoley Producers Greg Ahn, Karl Nickoley, Dave Rooney, Dave Browne Key Cast Dave Rooney, Dave Browne
KARL NICKOLEY and his company Frequency Pictures has worked with clients across the country, taking on challenging projects and newer technologies, such as the award-winning 360 video experience he directed for the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority. He’s worked with wellknown companies including AT&T, Ford, Geico, AMC Network, and Dr. Pepper.
This program is generously supported by Sonya + Richard Garber
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DOCUMENTARY COMPETITION
WELL GROOMED Sponsored by Meadowood Napa Valley Well Groomed travels the humorous, visually stunning world of Competitive Creative Dog Grooming throughout an entire year. Using creative hair cutting techniques and natural hair dye, these women transform their beloved poodles into walking, barking works of art. Creative grooming is treated as an artistic outlet and also as an opportunity for an outgoing dog to experience even more love and attention from onlookers. While the groomers see all of their dogs as champions, they continue to put in countless hours of hard work to convince the judges to award them first place. Well Groomed reveals that, no matter where or how, an innate passion for creative expression is universal. Run Time 88 min Director Rebecca Stern Producers Justin Levy, Matthew C Mills Key Cast Adriane Pope, Angela Kumpe, Cat Opson, Nicole Beckman This program is generously supported by Carla Buffington + Jeffrey Wilcox
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REBECCA STERN is a director and producer living in Brooklyn, New York. Her credits include Tre Maison Dasan, Netizens, and Cartel Land. She previously was a staff member of Picture Motion, the leading film impact firm, managing film marketing campaigns for acclaimed documentaries such as The Yes Men are Revolting.
WINERY
RIDE | SIP | SAVOR napa valley
Tasting Experiences & Winery Tours Available by Appointment 100 Rapp Lane, Napa CA 94558 www.shadybrookestate.com 707.255.5661
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A variety of unique genre films ranging from gritty dramas to wacky comedies to sci-fi and fantasy.
VERGE
VERGE
COME AS YOU ARE
GREENER GRASS
Scotty, Matt, and Mo are all dealing with the same issue most young men deal with: how to embrace their independence and lose their virginity. However, they have the added obstacles of living with disabilities and having overprotective families. When Scotty finds out about a brothel in Montreal that caters to individuals with disabilities, he convinces Matt and Mo to join him on a road trip up north. With the help of Sam, a hired driver/nurse, the group heads out on a journey of self-discovery. Inspired by a true story and a remake of the acclaimed Belgian film Hasta La Vista.
Welcome to a demented, timeless suburbia where every adult wears braces on their straight teeth, couples coordinate meticulously pressed outfits, and coveted family members are swapped in more ways than one in a competition for acceptance. In this pastel-painted alternate reality, soccer moms Jill and Lisa find themselves in constant personal and social competition, as their kids settle their own differences on the field.
Run Time 106 min Director Richard Wong Producers Grant Rosenmeyer, Jacqueline Ingram, Barrett Stuart Screenwriter Erik Linthorst Key Cast Grant Rosenmeyer, Hayden Szeto, Ravi Patel, Gabourey Sidibe, Janeane Garofalo
Run Time 95 min Directors Dawn Luebbe, Jocelyn DeBoer Producer Natalie Metzger Screenwriters Dawn Luebbe, Jocelyn DeBoer Key Cast Jocelyn DeBoer, Dawn Luebbe, Beck Bennett, Neil Casey
This program is generously supported by Nick Allen
RICHARD WONG is an award-winning director and cinematographer. His credits include Colma: The Musical, To the Bone, Girlfriend’s Day, Spare Parts, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, and Saint Judy.
JOCELYN DEBOER and DAWN LUEBBE are an awardwinning writing and directing team based in Los Angeles. Both veteran performers at The Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre, Jocelyn and Dawn partnered in 2015 and formed Gulp Splash Productions.
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HOSEA
LAST CALL
After years of working as a call girl, Cate discovers that her childhood sweetheart has moved back to town. She’s given the chance to leave the sex trade and lead the life she thought she always wanted, but her journey is challenged with substance abuse, mental illness, and the messiness of love. In the midst of that darkness, she must fight to gain a sense of self-worth and self-acceptance. Set in the American South, Hosea is a provocative, modern-day retelling of a Biblical tale through the eyes of the forgotten female character.
Beth balances being a single mother with working as a night janitor at a crisis hotline center. When she answers a ringing phone in the empty office, she gets connected with Scott, who is mourning the loss of his son. Captured in two true single takes and filmed simultaneously in two different parts of a city, Last Call is a real-time feature presented in split-screen that showcases both ends of a phone call that has the potential to save a life.
Run Time 90 min Director Ryan Daniel Dobson Producers Suzanne Watson, Avril Z. Speaks Screenwriter Ryan Daniel Dobson Key Cast Camille Rowe, Avi Nash, Josh Pence
RYAN DANIEL DOBSON has written and directed short films featured at several festivals. Ryan swept NVFF with awards for his films The Romantics and Weapons. He was then signed to adapt the play The Big Woop into a screenplay for Alhambra Pictures.
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Run Time 76 min Director Gavin Michael Booth Producers Gavin Michael Booth, Daved Wilkins Screenwriters Daved Wilkins, Gavin Michael Booth Key Cast Sarah Booth, Daved Wilkins
GAVIN MICHAEL BOOTH is an award-winning filmmaker. He teamed up with Jason Blum to create Fifteen, the world’s first movie broadcast live using the Periscope App. He also directed The Scarehouse and was recently nominated for two Video of the Year awards.
VERGE
VERGE
ONLY
SPEED OF LIFE
A comet releases a mysterious virus that begins to kill all of the women in the world, making Eva one of the few women left on Earth. Eva and her partner, Will, hide out in their oversterilized apartment, both from the mysterious plague outside and from the men hunting down all remaining women. The young couple’s relationship is tested and they ultimately escape their self-imposed quarantine for one final experience together.
In 2016, June and Edward were in the midst of an argument when Edward suddenly fell into a wormhole created by David Bowie’s death. Flash forward to 2040: June is turning 60 and lives in a futuristic, high-tech world where senior citizens are required to retire and be relocated from their homes. Unwilling to conform to society’s rules, the feisty June begins to plan her escape when Edward suddenly reappears.
Run Time 87 min Director Takashi Doscher Producers Eyal Rimmon, Gabrielle Pickle, Alex Creasia Screenwriter Takashi Doscher Key Cast Freida Pinto, Leslie Odom Jr., Chandler Riggs, Jayson Warner Smith
TAKASHI DOSCHER has directed the award-winning films Still, Hear Us, and A Fighting Chance. Takashi was named on the Tracking Board’s HIT List and Young & Hungry List for his spec script The Life Inside.
Run Time 76 min Director Liz Manashil Producers Pardis Sullins, Nicolaas Bertelsen, J.D. Compton Screenwriter Liz Manashil Key Cast Ann Dowd, Ray Santiago, Vella Lovell, Sean Wright, Jeff Perry, Allison Tolman
LIZ MANASHIL spent several years as a film critic for the PBS/Hulu series Just Seen It. Her debut feature was Bread and Butter, and she is in development on her third film Lady Parts. She is the Senior Manager, Impact Distribution at Picture Motion.
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TREASURE TROUBLE
THE WAY YOU LOOK TONIGHT
In a mad-cap comedy of errors, Treasure Trouble follows Eve, a self proclaimed “Treasure Hunter,” who accidentally finds a gun buried at the beach with her metal detector. She plans to give the gun to the police, but then becomes convinced that it belongs to the Russian mob. What follows is a series of cascading misadventures as she teams up with her rich ex-boyfriend and his fiancée to return the gun to the mob.
Peter is overjoyed when he meets Ellie, who appears to be his dream girl. Despite their instant connection, Ellie suddenly disappears from Peter’s life after their first date. Peter tries to move on from Ellie by going on dates with other women, but Peter begins to notice eerie similarities between all the women he meets. Peter soon discovers a new world of people and experiences that causes him to question the nature of attraction and identity in this unique story with a supernatural twist.
Run Time 78 min Director Dan Erickson Producers Matthew Shear, Rachel Wortell, Jacqueline Dow, Dan Erickson Screenwriter Dan Erickson Key Cast Olivia Luccardi, Matthew Shear, Lily Meyer, Seaton Smith, Theodore Bouloukos
Run Time 85 min Director John Cerrito Producers Julia Angley, Marcel Perez, Masaya Tajika Screenwriter John Cerrito Key Cast Nick Fink, Bailey Noble, Emily Tremaine, Juliette Goglia, Shane Coffey
DAN ERICKSON is a filmmaker based in New York City. His first feature he directed, produced, and wrote was A Sibling Mystery. As an editor, he has worked for Blue Bloods, The Good Fight, and Evil on CBS and the Upright Citizens Brigade’s video teams.
JOHN CERRITO was born and raised in Memphis, Tennessee. His credits include Bradley, A Woman with a Physical Problem, and The Opposite of Echoes and Development. John has a strong interest in LGBT activism and queer theory.
QUALITY SERVICE EXPERIENCE INNOVATION Chairs to China
Linens to Lighting
Tables to Tents
bright.com Los Angeles • West Los Angeles • Santa Barbara • Orange County • San Diego Palm Springs • San Francisco • Sonoma • Saint Helena • Healdsburg • Phoenix
CULINARY CINEMA
Films that center around the unifying theme of food.
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CULINARY CINEMA
CULINARY CINEMA
BREAKING BREAD
FUNKE
In Breaking Bread, exotic cuisine and a side of politics are on the menu. Dr. Nof Atamna-Ismaeel - the first Muslim Arab to win Israel’s MasterChef television competition - is on a quest to make social change through food. In an effort to effect change, she founded the A-sham Arabic Food Festival in Haifa, Israel, where pairs of Arab and Jewish chefs collaborate on local dishes.
Evan Funke was one of the hottest young chefs in Los Angeles when he walked away from his critically-acclaimed and wildly popular restaurant, Bucato. Years later, Evan plans his comeback, eyeing one of the most competitive and expensive streets in America as a stage for the dying art of handmade pasta. He battles many obstacles on the road to opening a new restaurant that he hopes will repair the mistakes of his past and, eventually, become his legacy.
Run Time 86 min Director Beth Elise Hawk Producer Beth Elise Hawk
BETH ELISE HAWK executive produced the MTV television series Eye Candy. Previously, she produced the awardwinning documentary Fan-Demanium and co-produced the feature documentary I’m Rick James.
Run Time 90 min Director Gab Taraboulsy Producers Gab Taraboulsy, Alexander Emanuele, Jay Holzer, Cecile Murias Key Cast Evan Funke, Janet Zuccarini, Nancy Silverton, Jon Shook, Vinny Dotolo
GAB TARABOULSY’s work has garnered a James Beard Nomination and a Webby Award for Best Documentary Series. Gab hopes to tap into the infinite power of food to travel the world and shed light on the remarkable people working tirelessly to better our food landscape.
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CULINARY CINEMA
CULINARY CINEMA
NOSE TO TAIL
NOTHING FANCY:
Nose to Tail follows Daniel, a talented yet abrasive chef and restaurateur. Daniel’s upscale restaurant has run successfully for years, but financial difficulties have caused him to take desperate measures. Over the course of one fateful and increasingly frantic day, he faces an onslaught of private trials and professional tribulations in a desperate bid to beat the odds and save the business that he’s sacrificed virtually everything in his life to build. Run Time 82 min Director Jesse Zigelstein Producers Douglas Nyback, Tony Wosk Screenwriter Jesse Zigelstein Key Cast Aaron Abrams, Lara Jean Chorostecki, Salvatore Antonio, Ennis Esmer, Carolina Bartczak, Lauren Collins, Brandon McKnight, Genevieve Kang
DIANA KENNEDY
Nothing Fancy: Diana Kennedy provides an intimate and candid glimpse into the curious world of Diana Kennedy. Diana is a 96-year-old British ex-pat who is widely regarded as the world’s academic expert on Mexican cuisine. Author of nine acclaimed cookbooks, she has spent nearly seventy years researching Mexico’s varied and complex culinary fare. Diana is a legendary force of nature in the culinary world and definitely isn’t afraid to speak her mind. Run Time 72 min Director Elizabeth Carroll Producer Gina Abatemarco Key Cast Diana Kennedy
This program is generously supported by Patricia Decker + John Holton
JESSE ZIGELSTEIN was born in Toronto and lives in Los Angeles. He studied film at York University and UCLA. Nose to Tail is his first feature.
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ELIZABETH CARROLL, a native of Austin, Texas, studied film at the University of San Francisco under Oscar-nominated documentarian and Sundance fellow Sam Green. She has previously directed content for The New York Times.
CULINARY CINEMA
CULINARY CINEMA
STAGE: THE
A TASTE OF SKY
Stage: The Culinary Internship follows a group of interns during a nine month apprenticeship at one of the most notable restaurants in the world, Mugaritz. While the restaurant’s notorious avantgarde cuisine and creative working environment elevates these young hopefuls to think outside the confines of a kitchen, ultimately, not everyone can handle the heat.
A Taste of Sky follows two students from Gustu, the groundbreaking cooking school and finedining restaurant in Bolivia, founded by NOMA’s Claus Meyer. As the film unfolds, we uncover what has driven this European chef to come to Latin America and begin to see the parallels that tie seemingly disparate backgrounds. A Taste of Sky is an exploration of family, mentorship, and legacy – all viewed through the powerful lens of food.
CULINARY INTERNSHIP
Run Time 78 min Director Abby Ainsworth Producers Lindsay Kutner, Abby Ainsworth This program is generously supported by Janell + Bob Bassett
Run Time 85 min Director Michael Lei Producers Andrew Renzi, Kevin Iwashina, Michael Lei, Abby Davis, Jess Kwan Key Cast Claus Meyer, Kenzo Hirose, Maria Claudia Kantuta This program is generously supported by Ulla + John Brown
ABBY AINSWORTH is a filmmaker and creator of Butternut Productions. She has directed everything from features to shorts and brings a wealth of production and directorial experience to the table. Her work can be seen on CBC, Documentary Channel, Vice Media, and Air Canada.
MICHAEL LEI has directed music videos that have been featured on Vice and MTV. He has been recognized as a fellow by the Points North Fellowship, the San Francisco Film Society, the Film Independent Documentary Lab, and the Film Independent Screenwriting Lab.
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Life gets a little better with the first heady sniff… where dark matter dances with sound barriers… and, at the speed of light, the flavors burst forth like a meteor shower in your mouth. It’s an elegant, sophisticated and speedy ride with a thrust of pleasure in all directions.
A wine club for the explorers, the pioneers and those that break the rules in the quest for knowledge and the discovery of new frontiers. Basic Ration
Booster Pack
Full Throttle
Quantum Leap
3-bottle shipment x 2 /year
6-bottle shipment x 2 /year
12-bottle shipment x 2 /year
24-bottle shipment x 2 /year
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS A collection of films that showcase the human spirit.
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SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
ELSEWHERE
FROM THE VINE
Bruno is still mourning his wife’s passing when his in-laws evict him from the home he and wife built together. Unwilling to let his beloved home fall into disrepair, Bruno sneaks back to the house and meets the new owner of the home, Marie. Determined to be the only person to make any changes to the house he built, Bruno poses as a local handyman and Marie hires him for renovations. As the two begin work on the house, Bruno is forced to face the reality that his wife is gone and he learns to move on from his grief.
Mark, a downtrodden CEO, is experiencing an ethical crisis at work. In an attempt to recalibrate his moral compass, he travels back to his hometown in rural Italy. He finds newfound purpose by reviving his grandfather’s old vineyard, offering the small town of Acerenza a sustainable future and reconnecting with his family in the process. Combining magical realism and Italian neorealism, and set against the backdrop of Italian wine country, From the Vine is about returning to your roots and redefining your life when you’re at the bottom of the barrel.
Run Time 98 min Director Hernán Jiménez Producers Chris Cole, J. Todd Harris Screenwriter Hernán Jiménez Key Cast Aden Young, Parker Posey, Ken Jeong, Beau Bridges, Jacki Weaver
This program is generously supported by Maureen + Marlin McKeever
HERNAN JIMENEZ is an actor, writer, and director from Costa Rica. Elsewhere is his first English language film. Hernan graduated from the film program at Columbia University and is a well known comedian in Costa Rica.
Run Time 94 min Director Sean Cisterna Producers Kyle Bornais, Paula Brancati, Ken Cancellara, Sean Cisterna, Paula Brancati Screenwriter Willem Wennekers Key Cast Joe Pantoliano, Wendy Crewson, Marco Leonardi, Paula Brancati, Tony Cisterna This program is generously supported by Irene + Ed Ojdana
SEAN CISTERNA is an award-winning Canadian filmmaker. His credits include Kiss and Cry and Full Out. Sean was awarded a Canada 150 Citizenship Award for Thought Leadership by the Federal Government for his community engagement and dedication to the arts.
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SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
CODE & RESPONSE
GAY CHORUS DEEP SOUTH
2018 was the worst year on record for natural disasters. Code & Response takes us into the heart of the aftermath of some of those disasters as we meet the first responders who are supported by innovative technology. Follow four coders from around the world (Japan, Puerto Rico, California, and Mexico) to learn about why they are getting involved, as well as how they are building technologies to help first responders save lives. Run Time 75 min Director Austin Peck Producers George Hammer, Elisa Thomas Screenwriters Chris Schifando, Joe Esposito This program is generously supported by Hilary + Chris Wendel
In response to a wave of discriminatory antiLGBTQ laws in Southern states, the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus embarks on a tour of the American Deep South. The tour brings a message of music, love, and acceptance to communities and individuals confronting intolerance. What emerges is a less divided America, where the lines that separate us in faith, politics, and sexual identity are erased through the soaring power of music, humanity, and a little drag.
Run Time 100 min Director David Charles Rodrigues Producers Bud Johnston, Jesse Moss This program is generously supported by Debra Crow
AUSTIN PECK is a director whose works include Gardeners of Eden and Tough Bond. Austin directed an 11-episode investigative news series in virtual reality titled The Big Picture for the Huffington Post, in partnership with Google and Hulu.
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DAVID CHARLES RODRIGUES is a filmmaker and equal rights activist. His short films and commercials were featured at MOCA Los Angeles, MOCA Tei Pei, The San Jose New Media Biennial, Skirball Cultural Center, The Art Directors Club, Cannes Lions, and Art Basel.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
IT ALL BEGINS WITH A SONG:
THE LAND OF HIGH MOUNTAINS
THE STORY OF THE NASHVILLE SONGWRITER It All Begins with a Song: The Story of the Nashville Songwriter is a celebration of one of music’s most important yet underrated forces: the songwriter. These songwriters have penned melodies and lyrics for some of the biggest stars in the music industry, yet few know their names. Pull back the curtain to reveal the process of creating a successful song and learn more about the origins of some of the world’s most iconic hits. Run Time 88 mi Director Anthony ‘Chusy’ Haney-Jardine Producers Butch Spyridon, Deana Ivey Screenwriter John Godsey This program is generously supported by Jane + Larry Solomon
ANTHONY ‘CHUSY’ HANEY-JARDINE is the former executive creative director of a blue-chip international advertising agency. His film credits include Monkey Park, Anywhere USA, and Gigante. Chusy was featured in an episode of MTV’s Made where he helped a teen with learning disabilities make a film.
The Land of High Mountains is the inspiring true story of the only pediatric hospital in Haiti. In a country where one third of the population is under fourteen years of age and foreign NGOs consistently come and go, Saint Damien Pediatric Hospital has been providing life-saving healthcare to the most vulnerable families for over thirty years. This is a powerful account of the incredible people, both Haitian and foreign who, despite encountering every conceivable obstacle, are working together to create a brighter future for their patients and for Haiti. Run Time 103 min Director Will Agee Producer Will Agee Key Cast Liferne Forestal, Phadoul Amisial, Fr. Rick Frechette, Dr. Renee Alce, Dr. Jacqueline Gautier, Fr. Enzo Del Brocco, Veline , Gaelle , Lourdy , Pierre Nadine, Sainfleur Jean Israel, Marie Yolene, Vilaire Meralin, Christiana Liberis
WILL AGEE is an award-winning documentary filmmaker from the San Francisco Bay Area. He is the Founder & Director of Dulcinea Productions.
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SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
MAKING WAVES:
MARTHA:
THE ART OF CINEMATIC SOUND
Since the invention of sound in films, sound designers have been influencing the landscape of cinema. Making Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound shines a spotlight on the unsung heroes of sound design throughout cinematic history. Through interviews with legendary directors and some of the industry’s most-respected sound designers, we revisit film classics that helped shape the way we listen to and experience films today. Making Waves: The Art of Cinematic Sound reveals the hidden impact of sound in cinema and how the auditory intake of a film holds so much power over an individual’s experience of storytelling. Run Time 94 min Director Midge Costin Producers Bobette Buster, Midge Costin, Karen Johnson
MIDGE COSTIN holds the Kay Rose Endowed Chair in the Art of Sound Editing at USC School of Cinematic Arts, given by George Lucas in 2005. She has been a feature film sound editor in Hollywood where her work is featured in Oscar-nominated films for Sound Editing and won the Golden Reel award for Sound Editing on Crimson Tide.
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A PICTURE STORY In the 1970s, Martha Cooper was one of a handful of photographers documenting the first vivid images of graffiti appearing on New York City’s subway carriages. 20 years later, she discovers that her book Subway Art has become one of the most stolen books of all time – inspiring the spread of graffiti around the globe and making Martha an unexpected icon of the street art world. Now, at age 75, Martha must navigate her way through the vastly changed culture of the modern world. Run Time 84 min Director Selina Miles Producer Daniel Joyce This program is generously supported by The Gardner Grout Foundation
SELINA MILES’s short “hyper-lapse” video, Limitless, became a globally recognised rendition of graffiti art, garnering over 12 million views on YouTube. She extended her examination of the street artist at work with her online series The Wanderers.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
MY BEAUTIFUL STUTTER
RUTH-JUSTICE GINSBURG
After lifetimes of bullying, isolation, and failed fluency training, witness the incredible transformation of five kids who stutter when they enter a groundbreaking program through SAY, The Stuttering Association. Over the course of a year of events and workshops, these young people of wildly different backgrounds experience SAY’s revolutionary mantra: it’s okay to stutter. Run Time 89 min Director Ryan Gielen Producers Paul Rudd, George Springer, Michael Alden, Patrick Lynch Screenwriter Steven Sander Key Cast Taro Alexander This program is generously supported by Christin Martinelli + Ethan Hare
RYAN GIELEN’s credits include The Graduates, Turtle Hill, Brooklyn, Stop the Bleeding!, Helping Hany, and Deleted: The Game. Ryan is a contributor to NoFilmSchool.com and multiple festival blogs. He is also Co-Founder of DVD’s to the Troops.
IN HER OWN WORDS
How does a person with three strikes against her rise to the highest court in the land, the U.S. Supreme Court? RUTH – Justice Ginsburg in her Own Words tells the improbable story of how Ruth Bader Ginsburg became an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court. It also reveals both the public and private sides of a resilient, resourceful woman who has survived the hostility of the profoundly male universe of government and law to become a revered Justice and icon for gender equality and women’s rights. Run Time 90 min Director Freida Lee Mock Producers Freida Lee Mock, Geralyn Dreyfous, Regina K. Scully, Barbara Dobkin, Sandra Lee, Cara Kennedy-Cuomo, Danielle Mark, Meghan Hooper Screenwriters Freida Lee Mock, Mike Aguilar Key Cast Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Justice Goodwin Liu, Dean Erwin Chemerinsky, Irin Carmon, Shana Knizhnik, Delegate Jennifer Carroll Foy, M.E. Freeman, Lilly Ledbetter, Kathleen Peratis
FREIDA LEE MOCK is an Academy and Emmy Award-winning filmmaker. Her 5 Academy Award nominations include winner Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision and nominees Rose Kennedy: A Life to Remember, SING!, Never Give Up, and To Live or Let Die.
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SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
THE THREE DRINKERS SOMM TV PRESENTS DO SCOTCH WHISKY VERTICALS Packed full of humor, personality, and flavor, The Three Drinkers Do Scotch Whisky is a drinks-focused travelogue, where three friends embark on a road trip through Scotland. From Dufftown and Islay, to Elgin and Jura, they journey through breathtaking landscapes, visiting iconic distilleries, and touching on Scottish culture, tourism, and traditional dishes you can’t even pronounce. This is whisky for a new, global audience, from twenty one to ninety one. Run Time 30 min Director David Agrawal Producers Chris Dabbs, Aidy Smith, Helena Nicklin, Colin Hampden-White
DAVID AGRAWAL started his career in branded content, before moving into non-scripted entertainment. Over the past decade, his films have attracted 250 million online views, including digital content and features for One Direction, The Apprentice, X Factor, and Britain’s Got Talent.
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SOMM TV presents the series Verticals, where winemakers, winery owners, and other pivotal people in the wine business open seminal vintages from their careers. These stories show the human condition through a bottle of wine. SOMM TV is the first subscription video on demand streaming platform in the wine, food, and travel space with exclusive new shows, films, and educational content created from the ground up by the team that made the SOMM documentary series. Run Time 90 min Director Jason Wise Producers Jason Wise, Nadine Nettmann
JASON WISE’s first feature length film, SOMM, screened at the Napa Valley Film Festival and released theatrically in 2012. With the sequels SOMM: Into the Bottle and SOMM 3, Jason became a major voice in the wine industry. Jason is currently President of SOMM TV and is finishing his next feature length documentary, Delicacy, and the series Verticals and Pairings.
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS
I WANT MY MTV A nostalgic and thrilling ride, I Want My MTV takes its audience back to the beginning, when the idea of a television channel devoted to only videos seemed destined for failure. The chronicling of this unique journey provides a peek into how a team of young executives were tasked with growing this seed of an idea, which would quickly flourish into a beloved - and often controversial - cultural juggernaut. Features commentary from Sting, Billy Idol, The Eurythmics, Jerry Cantrell, Pat Benatar, and more. Run Time 86 min Directors Patrick Waldrop, Tyler Measom Producers David Kennedy, Nick Quested, Rick Krim, Brad Abramson Key Cast Sting, Billy Idol, Pat Benatar, Dee Snider, Norman Lear, The Eurythmics, Darryl McDaniel, Jerry Cantrell This program is generously supported by Carissa Ashman
TYLER MEASOM is the filmmaker behind numerous titles including Sons of Perdition, An Honest Liar, Jesus Town, USA, Take, and Elder. He is currently co-directing the documentary series The Salamander. PATRICK WALDROP has produced shorts films and commercials, as well as documentaries such as Killer at Large.
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A TRUSTED PARTNER
AVMS is a full-service audiovisual company with a proven track record of successful partnership with over 125 hotels and resorts throughout the United States. We provide comprehensive audio, video, lighting and staging solutions for meetings of all sizes. We’re proud to partner with the Napa Valley Film Festival, as well as The Meritage Resort and Spa, Silverado Resort and Spa, Archer Hotel Napa, Carneros Resort and Spa, Bardessono Hotel and Spa, Hotel Yountville, Indian Springs Calistoga, several local wineries and many luxury hotel and boutique brands across the country.
Founded in 1999, AVMS has grown into a national leader in hotel audiovisual services through our dedication to customer satisfaction and commitment to improving GSS scores, revenues and profits for our partners. With on-site support, we will work with your teams to drive business with our proactive approach, innovative designs, creative packages and flexible pricing. Contact us today to discover how partnering with us can benefit your hotel(s) and guests.
Inquiries: Jim Jungsten | EVP Business Development | jimj@avms.com t: 916.417.6484 |
fb.com/go.avms |
@avms_us | avms.com
NARRATIVE SHORTS
Scripted short films that explore the kaleidoscope of human emotion.
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COMEDY SHORTS Total run time: 71 min
PIE A man puts his life before the cameras — mockumentary-style — sharing details of the loneliness and tribulations associated with a predictable, yet inexplicable, daily pie in the face. Run Time 4 min Directors Doug Cox, Patrick Lundberg Producer Scott Wickman Screenwriters David Verhoef, Doug Cox Key Cast Joanna Kay, Doug Cox, David Verhoef, Baily Hopkins
LADY HATER A self-proclaimed “guy’s girl” has to face her demons when she finds herself in an all-female goddess seminar.
Run Time 8 min Director Alexandra Barreto Producer Taylor Feltner Screenwriter Alexandra Barreto Key Cast Allyn Rachel, Natalie Zea
THE SHABBOS GOY God quite literally forbids that she turn off a vibrator gone rogue, so an Orthodox Jew sets out on a quest to find someone who can.
Run Time 7 min Director Talia Osteen Producers Paul Feig, Laura Fischer, Kesila Childers, Jesse Schiller Screenwriter Talia Osteen Key Cast Milana Vayntrub, Devere Rogers, Tami Sagher
40 MINUTES OVER MAUI
THE BIBCOCKS’ INCURSION A man is pushed to the brink when he finds himself up against three uncontrollable bathroom sinks. Run Time 6 min Director Alvin Joo Producers Nate Ward, Alex Bratsos, Melissa Ward, Neil Andrew Cerullo Screenwriter Nate Ward Key Cast Nate Ward, Josh Cieszynski
DIG YOUR OWN GRAVE Reggie brings Dan into the desert to dig his own grave, but the ground is really hard and it is going to take much longer than either of them anticipated. Run Time 14 min Director Kirk Larsen Producer Greg Kindra Screenwriter Kirk Larsen Key Cast Amos Vernon, Henry Zebrowski
MARSHA! Aidan was once the most promising young actor in Hollywood. However, fame is fickle and, thanks to a mix of bad luck and bad behavior, he now finds himself stuck in a hole, playing the lead role in his little brother’s directorial film debut in which his character is – quite literally – trapped in a hole in the ground. Run Time 18 min Director Rowen Kahn Producer Aidan Kahn Screenwriter Rowen Kahn Key Cast Aidan Kahn, Rachel Colwell, Rowen Kahn
In the middle of a peaceful Hawaiian vacation, a couple has to grapple with a crisis that may forever affect their vacation — as well as the whole of humanity. Run Time 14 min Directors Michael Feld, Josh Covitt Producers Brent McHenry, Nick Clifford Screenwriters Michael Feld, Josh Covitt , Steve Feld Key Cast Julie Brister, Johnny Meeks
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DRAMATIC SHORTS Total run time: 67 min
Total run time: 66 min
CHEMISTRY
UNFORGETTABLE
As the audition tape continues to roll, a casting director and producer are caught candidly discussing the repercussions of casting a mixedrace actress.
A young woman kidnaps her ex-boyfriend, and subjects him to technology that alters his memories in order to rebuild the foundation of their partnership and get their lives back on track after their relationship has seemingly failed.
Run Time 4 min Director Cynthia Silver Producer Camden Elizabeth Screenwriter Charlotte Martin Key Cast Charlotte Martin, Meghan Rafferty, Jillian Oliver, Moira O’Sullivan
A COHORT OF GUESTS A group of friends enjoy a casual summer dinner party until they are shockingly interrupted by an uninvited guest. Run Time 15 min Director Todd Sandler Producers Kevin Alejandro, Leslie Alejandro, Dani De Jesus, Todd Sandler, Becca Nelson, Kelly McCreary, Drew Rausch Screenwriter Alexa Gilker Key Cast Sarah Drew, Kelly McCreary, Jasika Nicole, Drew Rausch, Danielle Savre, Brandon Scott, Jake Borelli
ASIA A A recent spinal cord injury causes a patient to struggle to reconcile his sense of self-worth with his new reality as a paraplegic. Inspired by a true story. Run Time 20 min Director Andrew Reid Producers Jake Katofsky, Eric Baird Screenwriters Andrew Reid, Roberto Saieh Key Cast London Brown, Pruitt Taylor Vince
VIRAL A middle-class mother suffers an opioid overdose while out with her child, and is faced with the reality of having it caught on video and becoming an online sensation. Run Time 11 min Director Donald Broida Producer Anthony Rullo Screenwriter Donald Broida Key Cast Marguerite Moreau
Run Time 6 min Director Sabrina Jaglom Producers Sabrina Jaglom, Rishi Rajani, Ethan Webman Screenwriters Rishi Rajani, Sabrina Jaglom Key Cast Katrina Eroen, Luke Forbes, Giulian Gioello
REGULATION A social worker travels to a small community to administer behavior-modifying “patches” that guarantee happiness for the wearers. She must decide what to do when a young girl refuses to accept the patch. Run Time 12 min Director Ryan Patch Producer Joanne Vo Screenwriter Ryan Patch Key Cast Sunita Mani, Audrey Bennett
BALLOON In the brutal battlefield of junior high, Sam has always tried to stay off the radar. This all changes when he discovers he has super powers. Run Time 17 min Director Jeremy Merrifield Producers Christina Cha, Kate Chamuris, Alex Peurye Screenwriters Dave Testa, Jeremy Merrifield Key Cast Paul Scheer, Jonah Beres, Jaylin Ogle, Carson Severson
MOONWALK WITH ME A Korean-American girl named Juno is haunted by her father’s disappearances. Upon his recent return, Juno must decide between keeping her drifting father grounded or letting him go. Run Time 12 min Director So Young Shelly Yo Producers Jamil Munoz, Daniel Leighton, Kate Zhu Screenwriter So Young Shelly Yo Key Cast Carrie Kim, James Kang, Eliza Rain, Crystal Lee
CRYSTAL FROG
ROBU
Benjamin travels from France to Tokyo to meet his friend, Miko. The two share dinner together and discuss how Miko saved Benjamin’s life years ago.
Robu is the story of an American teenager in Tokyo on a quest to discover a long lost manga and a connection with his father.
Run Time 17 min Director Slony Sow Producers Slony Sow, Lucas Oliver Frost Screenwriter Slony Sow Key Cast Naoto Takenaka , Gerard Depardieu, Eriko Takeda
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SCI-FI/FANTASY SHORTS
Run Time 19 min Director Kai Hasson Producers Elyse Preiss, Kenji Green Screenwriters Josh Hallman, Kai Hasson Key Cast Jharrel Jerome, Kazuki Kitamura
DOCUMENTARY SHORTS
Short form documentaries that open a window into the lives of ordinary and extrordinary people.
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CULINARY SHORTS Total run time: 83 min
CHEF
The heartwarming and delicious story of an Armenian family, two Mexican immigrants, and a bakery– all nestled in the heart of an Los Angeles neighborhood. Run Time 19 min Director Anahid Nazarian Producers Matthew Yaldezian, Anahid Nazarian
Chef Christophe Bonnegrace relays his unique perspective on the sacrifices made by a chef.
THE BUS BOY
Run Time 5 min Director Paulina Lagudi Producer Paulina Lagudi Key Cast Christophe Bonnegrace
Bobby Stuckey is one of the most celebrated Master Sommeliers in the world, but his commitment to excellence has not been an easy journey.
ALCHEMY
Run Time 10 min Director Remington Long Key Cast Bonnie Ohara
LAHMAJUNE
Bonnie Ohara is a mother, artist, author, and founder of a micro-bakery. Alchemy Bread Co, her one-woman baking establishment located in Modesto, CA, offers up handcrafted sourdough bread in the old-world tradition.
Run Time 24 min Director Andrew Ackerman Producer Bryan Shpall Key Cast Bobby Stuckey
FOR THE LOVE OF CRAFT For the Love of Craft peels back the label on what it means to be a craft brewer and reveals the true heart of the craft by introducing audiences to the people behind it. Run Time 25 min Director Kaleb Kohart Producer Charlie Papazian Key Cast Larry Bell, Kevin Blodger, Ken Grossman, Kim Jordan, Jim Koch, Charlie Papazian
RETROSPECTIVE STORIES CHARACTER STUDIES Total run time: 84 min
Total run time: 83 min
STILL PLAYS WITH TRAINS
I, PASTAFARI:
A FLYING SPAGHETTI MONSTER STORY
John H. Scully presents a nostalgic glimpse into what it was like to grow up in the 1950s by recreating his 10th birthday with a 3,000 square foot replica of the old Lackawanna Railroad in his basement.
I, Pastafari follows the members of The Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, the world’s fastest growing religion. Run Time 40 min Director Mike Arthur
Run Time 17 min Director Ross Kauffman Producers Regina Scully, Nicole Galovski, Andrew Rowe Key Cast John Scully
TABLE STAKES
THE UNFORGETTABLE AUGUSTUS POST Through family members and historians, the audience learns about Augustus Post: automotive pioneer, aviator, balloonist, writer, actor, and promoter of transportation technology. Run Time 33 min Directors Camille Servan-Schreiber, Jason Cohn Producer John Moreno Key Cast Christina Anselmo
African American comic book creators Joe Thompson and Chris Adams of Fracture Comics confront challenges and stereotypes while pursuing their dreams. Run Time 17 min Director Khai Thu Nguyen Producers Arthur Yee, Khai Thu Nguyen Key Cast Christopher L. Adams, Joe Thompson, Lydia Thompson, Chrystal Perry
COACH
THE LOVE BUGS Over the course of 60 years, two married entomologists amassed the world’s largest private collection of insects. As they enter their twilight years, these two soulmates decide to give their collection away. Run Time 34 min Directors Allison Otto, Maria Clinton Producers Caryn Capotosto, David Cornfield, Linda Cornfield
Coach follows Tracy Hamm, the head women’s soccer coach at San Francisco State. Tracy is working towards becoming one of the first women in America to attain the UEFA A license. Run Time 26 min Directors Jordan Axelrod, Matthew Ellison Producers Courtney Carroll Levinsohn, Jordan Axelrod, Matthew Ellison Key Cast Tracy Hamm
WINERY | RESTAURANT | CAFÉ | GENERAL STORE | WINE TASTING | EVENTS | FARMERS MARKET
Owned by Ted, Laddie, and Chris Hall, Long Meadow Ranch produces estate-grown grapes and wine, olives and olive oil, grass-fed beef and lamb, fruits, vegetables, and eggs. LMR is a pioneer of Full Circle organic farming, with each part of the ranch contributing to the health of the whole.
EXPERIENCE LONG MEADOW RANCH • • • • • •
Mayacamas Estate Experience Seasonal & Private Events Live Fire Guest Chef Series Farmstead Restaurant Wine Tasting at the General Store Anderson Valley Tasting Room
738 MAIN ST | ST HELENA CA 94574 | 707.963.4555 | LONGMEADOWRANCH.COM | @LONGMEADOWRANCH
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NAPA FESTIVAL HUB We are thrilled to introduce the Oxbow Commons as our new Napa Festival Hub, an interactive space for guests to sip, shop, and explore installations from Cathay Pacific, Peroni, Saint Archer Brewing, Hop Valley Brewing, Whole Foods Market, Monogram, De’Longhi, and more. At the Napa Festival Hub, you will find: • Napa Box Office • Cathay Pacific Wellness Lounge • Monogram Demonstration Kitchen • Beer Garden • Wine Intermissions • Music Lounge
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WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM OXBOW COMMONS | NAPA Pass Holder Access All Pass Holders *Please note that 3-Day Passes are not valid on Thursday.
NAPA LOUNGES CATHAY PACIFIC WELLNESS LOUNGE THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM OXBOW COMMONS | NAPA Pass Holder Access All Pass Holders New this year, the Cathay Pacific Wellness Lounge features artisan products and morning fitness classes that promote the art of healthy living. This location is set in Napa’s outdoor park in the center of the Oxbow district on the Napa River.
CINELEASE FILMMAKER + VIP LOUNGE THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM THE STUDIO BY FEAST IT FORWARD | NAPA Pass Holder Access All Patron Circle Members The Cinelease Filmmaker + VIP Lounge is where Patron Circle members and filmmakers come together at Feast it Forward’s live studio showroom. Enjoy complimentary wine tastings, and exclusive performances. For a daily schedule of experiences visit nvff.org.
WINE INTERMISSIONS THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM OXBOW COMMONS | NAPA Pass Holder Access All Pass Holders Join 10+ boutique wineries as they pour their best varietals in between film screenings at our Napa Festival Hub. Each afternoon offers a new experience with live music and a fresh showcase of food, wine, beer, and craft cocktails.
For a daily schedule of experiences at the Napa Festival Hub, visit nvff.org or download the NVFF mobile app.
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MONOGRAM DEMONSTRATION KITCHEN Join us at the Monogram Demonstration Kitchen where filmmakers collaborate with masters of food, wine, and craft beverage to create 12 one-of-a-kind culinary demos. All members of our seated audience enjoy food and beverage samples during all film-inspired demonstrations. The Demonstration Kitchen features state of the art Monogram appliances, De’Longhi small appliances, Blanc Creatives fine cookware, and a fully stocked pantry courtesy of Whole Foods Market.
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THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 10:30 AM | 12:15 PM | 2:00 PM OXBOW COMMONS | NAPA Pass Holder Access All Festival Pass, Pass Plus, Patron Circle Members *Please note that 3-Day Passes are not valid on Thursday.
Better Everyday
CULINARY DEMONSTRATIONS THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
A TASTE OF SKY: A CULINARY DEMO
THE WORLD IS A STAGE
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM Top Chef alum Tu David Phu is a first-generation VietnameseAmerican with a rich culinary background. During this demo, Chef Tu crafts a dish inspired by Vietnamese cuisine and teaches guests about the importance of utilizing local food resources to create a better world.
10:30 AM - 11:15 AM Join Michelin Star Chef Stuart Brioza of State Bird Provisions for an adventurous, inventive, and contemporary spin on an American classic.
BREAKING BREAD: A CULINARY DEMO 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM Inspired by the documentary Breaking Bread, Chefs Laura and Sayat Ozyilmaz prepare sabich, a popular Israeli street food. Chef duo Laura and Sayat serve as the owners and executive chefs of San Francisco’s wildly successful Eastern Mediterranean restaurant Noosh.
PERFECT PAIRINGS 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM Chef Aaron Meneghelli of Carneros Resort and Spa takes guests through the Napa Valley region and the food that inspires the perfect wine pairings.
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 THE ALCHEMIST: THE SCIENCE OF BREAD MAKING 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM The art of bread making is steeped in tradition. Although the ingredients are simple, the intricacies of making the perfect loaf have been studied for thousands of years. This culinary demo demystifies the art of baking bread at home.
LAHMAJUNE: A CULINARY DEMO 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM Chef Vatche Moukhtarian, a winner of Food Network’s Guy’s Grocery Games, makes his family’s lahmajune recipe. Also known modernly as Armenian pizza, this Middle Eastern dish is inspired by a film with its same name.
NOTHING FANCY: A CULINARY DEMO 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM Gran Electrica Chef Ignacio Beltran creates a dish inspired by the vibrant history and cuisine found in Mexico. His culinary demo centers around authentic Mexican cooking, combined with the importance of seasonal ingredients.
ALL THE PASTA-BILITIES 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM Chef Hilary Sullivan Souza has been making homemade pasta since the age of eight. Join her at the demo kitchen as she takes guests through the process of making fresh pasta in just a few easy steps.
SNOUT TO TAIL 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM Join us at the demo kitchen for an exciting “snout to tail” breakdown. Executive Chef Daniel Capra of Paula LeDuc Fine Catering puts his butchering skills to the test to create a dish where all the key flavors come through.
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17 WAKE ME FOR BRUNCH 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM An abundance of local ingredients will be brought together to create a dish designed to win over even the strongest of brunch skeptics. Wake up with a De’Longhi barista as they brew up some Coperaco coffee for the perfect start to your day.
SHOW ME THE HONEY 12:15 PM - 1:00 PM Experience a modern take on a southern classic. Paired with High West Whiskey, this honey fried chicken recipe incorporates local honey from Gray Apiaries.
PIZZA MY HEART 2:00 PM - 2:45 PM Satisfy your carb craving and join Monogram Chef Gabriel McCarter at our pizza making demonstration. Guests will learn the art of making and rolling pizza dough, and how to select the perfect topping combination.
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D E TAI L S THAT I N VITE YO U I N French-Door design precisely engineered for smooth one-handed opening
MONOGRAM.COM
ESTATE-GROWN WINES, CONTEMPORARY ART & WARM HOSPITALITY IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN NAPA.
Discover Acumen Wine Gallery. Thursday - Sunday 11-7, Monday - Wednesday by appointment 1315 First Street, Napa, CA 94558 acumenwine.com | 707.492.8336
ST. HELENA FESTIVAL HUB The St. Helena Festival Hub, located at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch, offers guests the rustic elegance of a vineyard and garden setting while being conveniently located in downtown St. Helena. At the St. Helena Hub, you will find: • St. Helena Box Office • Blending Lab • Three Drinkers Masterclasses • Wine Intermissions As always, Farmstead invites all festival guests to dine at their charming Restaurant, offering American farmhouse fare and showcasing the freshest ingredients from their farm, ranch, and vineyard.
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WEDNESDAY, NOV. 13 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM FARMSTEAD AT LONG MEADOW RANCH | ST. HELENA Pass Holder Access All Pass Holders
THREE DRINKERS MASTERCLASSES THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM FARMSTEAD AT LONG MEADOW RANCH | ST. HELENA Pass Holder Access All Pass Holders The Three Drinkers are a London-based trio of expert drinkers, writers, and presenters, with an award-winning television series currently streaming on Amazon Prime in 160 countries and in 39 languages. Join them as they offer four informative masterclasses on wine, scotch, whiskey, and cognac.
WINE INTERMISSIONS THURSDAY, NOV. 14 - SUNDAY, NOV. 17 3:00 PM - 5:00 PM FARMSTEAD AT LONG MEADOW RANCH | ST. HELENA Pass Holder Access All Pass Holders Join 10+ boutique wineries as they pour their best varietals in between film screenings at our St. Helena Festival Hub. Each afternoon offers a new experience with live music, artisanal goods, art, and a fresh showcase of food and wine.
For a daily schedule of experiences at the Napa Festival Hub, visit nvff.org or download the NVFF mobile app.
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BLENDING LAB This year, we’re introducing the Blending Lab, a series of live panels in which NVFF’s core components — film, food, and wine — converge into one.
FRIDAY, NOV. 15 - SUNDAY, NOV 17 12:00 PM | 2:00 PM FARMSTEAD AT LONG MEADOW RANCH | ST. HELENA Pass Holder Access All Festival Pass, Pass Plus, Patron Circle Members
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15 WOMEN IN FILM ON WOMEN IN WINE 12:00 PM
DECONSTRUCTED: CULINARY CINEMA 2:00 PM
Female filmmakers and female winemakers sit down and discuss the similarities between their processes, their industries, and their histories. While there are striking parallels between the productions behind taking a script to the screen and a grape into the bottle, an equally fascinating discussion comes into play when contemplating the various obstacles and tribulations that women have faced over the years in both the film and wine worlds. This panel is moderated by Wine Spectator Senior Editor Mary Ann Worobiec.
Nadine Nettmann, certified Sommelier and Editorial Director of SOMM TV leads an expansive conversation on cinematic food culture and the future of films and television series within the culinary world. NVFF Culinary Cinema directors will accompany Nadine on stage for this lively and fascinating discussion of food and wine in film.
DISSECTING THE FIRST DRAFT 2:00 PM
SCREENWRITING 101 12:00 PM
The International Screenwriters’ Association’s Jess Hinds hosts a retrospective glance at how one particular script has been transported to the screen. Jess will highlight a specific project, which will be accompanied by an NVFF industry guest.
Max Timm and Felicity Wren of the International Screenwriters’ Association sit down with visiting NVFF filmmakers and screenwriters to discuss the writing process, how to advance your screenwriting career, getting your script produced, and much more.
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16
SHOT FOR SHOT 2:00 PM
WHAT’S MY WINE? 12:00 PM
Local distillers present handcrafted cocktails fashioned after poetic moments on film. Join us for an afternoon spent discussing the parallels of each craft and the ways in which one artistic medium can lend itself to an entirely new experience of another.
Visiting actors participate in one of the most unique blind tasting events of all time. Watch as some of the cast members from your favorite NVFF selects go up against Napa Valley sommeliers and try to identify characteristics of unidentified wines. While we already know how this will probably turn out, it still bodes for a hilarious time.
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17
For a daily schedule of experiences, visit nvff.org or download the NVFF mobile app.
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CINEMA NAPA VALLEY
MISSION Cinema Napa Valley is a 501c3 non-profit organization, established in the Napa Valley in 2009. Our mission is to celebrate the cinematic arts and enrich the community by presenting an annual world-class festival and year-round education and outreach programs. Every November, Cinema Napa Valley presents the Napa Valley Film Festival (NVFF), a cultural celebration immersed in the art of film, food, and wine. 501c3 Tax ID# 27-1064967
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Board Chair, Patrick Davila, Meadowood Napa Valley Treasurer, Debra Crow, Volta Industries, Inc. Secretary, Teresa Cunningham, GVM Law, LLC
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Carissa Ashman, C-StarPR, Inc.
Ron Hofmann, Scenario PR
Bob Bassett, Chapman University, Founding Dean of Dodge College of Film and Media Arts
Geyer Kosinski, CEO, Media Talent Group
Zoe Fairbourn, Brand Partnerships
Daniel Schryer, Bali Venture Partners LLC
Rick Garber, Morgan Stanley Wealth Management
Don Shindle, The Westin Verasa Napa
David Glasser, 101 Studios
Chris Wendel, Volta Industries, Inc.
J. Todd Harris, Branded Pictures Entertainment
Michael Woods, Baywood Capital | Mount View Hotel & Spa
FESTIVAL TEAM Tom Tardio
Ben Mahoney
Fearon DeWeese
Michael Fox
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
EXPERIENCE DIRECTOR
PATRON CIRCLE DIRECTOR
Emma Steele
Whitney Haskin
Blair Hunt
Amy Brown
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING
DIRECTOR OF PROGRAMMING
EDUCATION + OUTREACH DIRECTOR
PROGRAMMING + FILM DATABASE MANAGER
Haley Robinson
Kendall Howell
Manon Dargis
Debbie Aldine
DIGITAL MARKETING ASSOCIATE
PARTNER MARKETING ASSOCIATE
DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION
VOLUNTEER DIRECTOR
Katie Carpenter
Donnell Corelle
Courtney Wilson
Juliana Folk
VINTNER CIRCLE + PARTNER RELATIONS MANAGER
FILMMAKER + TALENT HOSPITALITY LIAISON
LODGING + HOSPITALITY COORDINATOR
SPONSORSHIP ACCOUNT MANAGER
Kara Messina PATRON CIRCLE ASSOCIATE
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EDUCATION + OUTREACH PROGRAMS Our Education + Outreach Programs are dedicated to sharing the power of cinematic storytelling with the next generation of creative minds. Every year, we reach over 3,500 students through integrated film programs that inspire curiosity, spark conversation, and foster critical thinking.
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SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR EDUCATION + OUTREACH PARTNERS:
YEAR-ROUND PROGRAMMING INSPIRE Inspire is a multi-school field trip for 1,200 Napa and Solano county middle and high school students during the week of the festival. Students gather to watch documentary films and participate in extended conversations with the filmmakers and the subjects of each story. Inspire is a core component of our Education + Outreach programs. My Beautiful Stutter Code + Response TEEN PRESS Teen Press develops students’ research, listening, and interviewing skills. Over the course of the festival, two teams of teen journalists interview celebrities, filmmakers, and other notable guests both on and off the red carpet.
Blue Oak Middle School Directed by 7th and 8th grade Math advisor Kristina Webster Harvest Middle School Directed by Journalism teacher Joe Paniagua
STUDENT FILMMAKING CAMPS + SHORT FILM SHOWCASE NVFF and Friends of the Cameo (FOC) collaborate to make filmmaking accessible to Napa, Sonoma, and Lake county students. Together, NVFF and FOC produced two fiveday intensive film camps, focused on creating narrative and documentary short films. Students were provided with the tools and instruction to execute their vision and translate their stories to the screen.
FILMMAKERS IN THE SCHOOLS Educators are offered a special selection of festival films to screen in the classroom. During the week of the festival, we invite the filmmakers and their film subjects to visit students to engage in intimate conversations that bring classroom curriculum to life.
The Unforgettable Augustus Post I Am Human The Pollinators Ruth – Justice Ginsberg in her Own Words The Story of Plastic
NEW PARTNERSHIPS In an effort to expand our educational partnerships, NVFF collaborated with the Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising (FIDM) to launch a unique academic initiative. Students from FIDM’s logo and branding class were tasked with creating a stamp for the film festival that encompassed NVFF’s immersive film, food, and wine experience. Congratulations to Youhuizi Fu on her innovative designs, which best encompassed the NVFF brand. Shumin Wang and Amanda Hyatt’s designs were also recognized as standout concepts.
NVFF NARRATIVE CAMP SHORT FILMS Alone Together Family Business CAMEO CINEMA DOC CAMP SHORT FILMS Craptastic Plastic Ken Maxfield Safari West
Selected designs by Youhuizi Fu
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VOLUNTEER LEADERSHIP + SEASONAL STAFF Thank you to our 500 volunteers who devote time, energy, and expertise to help make the festival a success. As trusted ambassadors, they are happy to assist you with all things festival.
Ballot Leads Bud Towns Chris Towns
Blending Lab (Panels) Jimmie Collins-Ware Sedrick Ware
Box Office + Credentials Barbara Ciapponi Greg Ciapponi Tara Jantzen Phoebe Joecks
Culinary Operations Stephanie Graham
Education
Art Morgan
Festival Events
Linda Bradley Norm Buller Tanausu De La Fe Allan Frederick Cindy Frederick Julie Neely Sherry Mason Barbara Story
Festival Hubs
Crystal-Rose Britto Carla Gyetvan Molly Gyetvan Kay Wilson
Filmmaker Check-in Laural Levin Dona Napier
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Filmmaker Hospitality Jessica Benjamin Donnell Corelle Joanny Rivera Ian Stewart
Red Carpet Team
Bob Gligorea James Bleecker, Jr. Mackenzie Devlin Christy Fitzpatrick Diana Flores Alex Lumbreras Ana Rizzo
Sunni Barraza Lyndsay Carlock Jennifer DeWeese Carol Eckersen Justin Harp Jessica Hume Rhan Jackson Louis Lopez Cory MacInnes Milton Solorzano Crystal Vartkessian Csilla Veress Cari Wieland
Patron Circle Hospitality
Ringmasters
Marketing + Social Media
Rosanne Bonanno Brittany Bornhofen Gregory Haas Rhan Jackson Stephanie James Melanie Manter Merrick McKeig Jennifer Renner Monica Stickley Cari Wieland Doug White
Photo + Video
Bob McClenahan Radar Pics XSIGHT Photography & Video
Professional Partners
Elevent: Christian Cole Jeremy Wine Eventival Public Policy Solutions, Inc.: Cory Black Kim Lancashire Scenario PR: Ron Hofmann Ashley Patterson
Jim Jones, Lead Allison Boyer Arabella Delluco Tracy Evans Joe Galambos Jennifer King Dena Navarroli Geoff Rice Tanisha Smith Christopher Tse
Theater Managers Shanan Anthony Lena Berlove Cindy Buchman Joe Buchman Fran Carpenter Stephen Carpenter Susan Duprey Peter Galea Janice Humphrey Cyndy Lesawyer Lynden Price Amy Rice T. Santora Brad Shurmantine Neva Smith Richard Uschyk Melanie Whiteley
Technical Directors Kent Long Vanessa O’Neill
Special Events
Brittany Anderson Mecaela Miller Ryan Smith Lisa Pond
Sponsor Hospitality Melissa Clapper
Village Coordinators Gus Guillen Cal Lowe Vincent Lowe Mike Richards Kristen Ronberg Stephen Siegrist
Volunteer Coordination Nicole Paltrineri Alicia Young
Volunteer Hub
Linda Azevedo Robin Greenwell
THANK YOU! Peter E. Abboud, Vintage High School Catherine Adams, River School Rick Aldine Sarah Anderson, American Canyon Middle School Yioryos Apallas Sally Archambault Renee Austin James Bailey, Justin-Siena High School Joan Bailey Patricia Bardwell Carol Barge Iris Barrie Carliza Bataller, American Canyon Middle School Linda Beckstrom Carol Boeddiker Elaine Boloyan, American Canyon High School Tracy Brennan, CAA Cathy Buck, Cameo Cinema Tammy Campbell Chris Canning, Mayor of Calistoga Nanci Caron Sean Casady Candice Chia Maryanne Christoffersen, Redwood Middle School Maria Cisneros, Valley Oak High School Brittnie Clark Sigamoney Ann Marie Conover, Meadowood Napa Valley Karin Cox, Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School Sandra Cross Christina Daly, ADAPT Tim de la Torre Jean Deluca Chris + Ellamay DeWeese Patti + Glenn DeWeese Maria Digiulio Whitney Diver McEvoy, Yountville Chamber of Commerce Olivia Dodd, Arts Council Napa Valley Lowell Downey John Dunbar, Mayor of Yountville Kathleen Edson Geoff Ellsworth, Mayor of St. Helena Shannon Emery Lorraine Fazzolare Martha Franco, Harvest Middle School Paul Franson Michelle Frisch Leon Garcia, Mayor of American Canyon Sande + Larry Garcia Colette Gell Lissa Gibbs Bob Gligorea Lisa Gottfried, New Tech High School Jane Gould, Harvest Middle School Adam Green Kristine Haataja Christine + Daniel Hale Heidi M. Harrison, Justin-Siena High School Peter Hartnack, River School Maria Haug Summer Heartt, American Canyon High School Emily Hegarty, Visit Napa Valley Melissa Henry Pratt Drew Herron, NVIS Lisa Hinz
Napa Valley Film Festival is proud to call 1400 Clay Street in Napa our year-round home. We extend tremendous gratitude and a heartfelt thank you to the Honorable Mae C. Woo. Mae is a former San Francisco Film & Video Arts Commissioner and currently the San Francisco City Hall Preservation Advisory Commission Vice Chair.
Lenore Hirsch Xin Huang Francis Hunt Pamela Hunt Janet Ida Angela Jackson, Visit Napa Valley Raphael Jimenez Deborah + Russ Joy Betsy + John Kane-Hartnett Tom + Susan Kennelly Jen Kohl, Silverado Middle School Rebecca Kotch Brian Kyle Lynette Larsen Oren Lewen Grania + Charles Lindberg Paulette Litz Rivka Livni Crystal Lopez, American Canyon High School Linda Lucas Cheryl Lusiani Diana + Tom Lyons Peg Maddocks Lana Manglallan Jennifer Marinace, Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School Scott Marsden, American Canyon High School Lisa Mazzoni Malcolm Mcclain, Robert Louis Stevenson Middle School Bob McClenahan, Napa’s Photographer Shannon McDermott Ellen Mehrens Sandra + Stewart Mehrens Lance + Darlene Meltzer Susan Miller, New Tech High School Kelley Miller, Silverado Middle School Rebecca Miller Sonya + Hal Milton Elizabeth Moffitt Lindsay Moore, Augustine Ideas Vera Morales Art Morgan Kathleen Morgan Rosanna Mucetti, NVUSD Sherri Neefe Chuck Neidhoefer, NVUSD VAPA Coordinator Barbara Nemko, NCOE Sarah O’Connor, Vintage High Melanie Oberting, St. John the Baptist Joe Paniagua, Harvest Middle School Liz Parr Phillipa Perry, Napa Chamber of Commerce Charlene Peters, Calistoga Chamber of Commerce Louis Pierotti, Justin-Siena High School Lisa Poppen, Visit Napa Valley Craig Priess Carol Pyner Sharon Rands Monica Ready, Napa High School Bonnie Richardson Madeline + Michael Rogers Dalfred Ross Robert Ruth, American Canyon Middle School Cynthia Sartori
Michelle Scaduto, St. John the Baptist Jeff Schechtman, Napa Broadcasting Nancy Schlegel Benjamin Scinto, St. Helena High School Dan Scudero, American Canyon Middle School John Sensenbaugh Lisa Seran Tom Serene, New Tech High School Lisa Shepard Rajeev Sigamoney, M.S. Colby Smith, CANVAS Craig Smith, Napa TID Nancy Snowden Jeffrey Stambor Jim + Tracy Sweeney Jill Techel, Mayor of Napa Betty Teller Nancy Tracy Polly Webber Kristina Webster, Blue Oak School Ernie Weir Camille Weishaar Ian White Dave + Loie Whitmer MaryLou Wilson, SHUSD Kathryn Winter Daniel Wordon Damon Wright, NVUSD Fern Yaffa Nicholas Young Krista Young Alicia Young Reynaldo Zertuche 42 West Advantage PR Arts Council Napa Valley Augustine Ideas BWR Calistoga Chamber of Commerce Calistoga TID Festival Napa Valley ID-PR Imprint PR Ketchum PR Lede Company Mosaic LA Napa Chamber of Commerce Napa County Board of Supervisors Napa TID Napa Valley Vintners Narrative PR PMK-BNC Relevant PR Rogers + Cowan Scenario PR Shelter PR Slate PR St. Helena Chamber of Commerce St. Helena TID Viewpoint Visit Napa Valley Wolf Kasteler Yountville Chamber of Commerce Younvtille TID
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COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS
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GOLD PARTNERS
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SILVER PARTNERS
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BRONZE PARTNERS
HUMBOLDT DISTILLERY
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MEDIA + MARKETING PARTNERS
VERY NAPA VALLEY TA S T E
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THIS WEEK
LODGING PARTNERS
COTTAGE GROVE INN Calistoga Resort Luxury Cottages
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EPICUREAN + WINERY PARTNERS EPICUREAN PARTNERS Angele Restaurant & Bar* Annie the Baker* Anette’s Chocolates* Ardbeg Basalt* Basil Hayden’s* Boochcraft Califia Farms Clase Azul Tequila* Clover Sonoma* Compline Wine Bar* Elaine Bell Catering Estate Events by Meadowood Gott’s Roadside Glenfiddich* Glenmorangie Gran Electrica* Gray Apiaries Hanson of Sonoma Distillery High West Distillery Hop Valley Brewing* Humboldt Distillery* illy Caffe* Junity Kara’s Cupcakes* Mariposa Ice Creamery* Mariani Packing Co Model Bakery Monday Bakery Napa Valley Tea Company Oenotri* Ottimo PathWater Paula LeDuc Fine Catering & Events Peroni* Pico Food Truck Remy Martin Cognac Saint Archer Brewing* Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar Small World Restaurant Sir Kensington’s Sunshine Foods Tarla Mediterranean Bar + Grill* Taylor Lane Coffee That Pizza Place The French Corner* Topo Chico* Whole Foods Market * Festival Gala Partners 1 24
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