2022 Reading Film Fest

ALL HALLOWS GALA

ReadingFilmFEST is pleased to support our friends at Reading Theater Project by bringing our Saturday night After-Party to their All Hallows’ Gala at Reading Film Studios. The All Hallows’ Gala promises a night of frightful, flavorful, festive FUNdraising. The evening will begin with live music by Hesse’s Hot Jazz featuring Chris Heslop, Ben Mauger, Bob Kreitz & more. Master Magician & Master of Ceremonies Matty Whipple will amaze you while DJ selektron wraps up the night with some can’t-stand-still dance tunes. Bid on luxurious auction packages, win raffles, enter a costume contest in hopes of winning a trophy, and enjoy curious cocktails all evening long.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29, 8-11PM

READING FILM STUDIOS

531 CANAL STREET

A twenty-dollar entry fee will support RTP’s inclusive theater initiative, but the fee is waived for those in possession of a VIP, Filmmaker, or Volunteer RFF badge. Slap on that costume (optional!), put on your dancing shoes & help us support Reading Theater Project’s efforts to make theater accessible to all.

READINGFILM WELCOME

2022 is a year of looking back and looking forward!

I think back to 2015 when we started ReadingFilmFEST. We knew we wanted a festival that celebrated the efforts of independent filmmakers. Through the support of the wonderful Berks business and arts community, we’ve been able to offer hospitality packages, networking opportunities, location tours, and great audiences to our visiting filmmakers year after year!

This year we are also remembering This is Reading, the spectacular multi-media event created by Lynn Nottage and Tony Gerber in 2017. We will be screening the documentary film of the event, followed by a discussion with its creators, and live performances with the This is Reading dancers.

A look back is not possible without taking a moment to reflect on the challenges we’ve all faced over the last two years during the Covid-19 pandemic. Filmmakers, businesses, festivals, and arts organizations struggled to stay relevant and survive the restrictions and real fears imposed by the epidemic. I’m so proud that ReadingFilmFEST continued to provide and even expand our programming throughout this time. We adjusted, we modified, and we tried new things. Throughout the challenges, we grew.

As I look to the future, I see a revitalized ReadingFilm office, recognized and supported by the community as an economic development initiative. I see new opportunities for youth and local filmmakers to grow their skills. I see a local film production community that brings pride, excitement, and prosperity to the entire region. I see the vision that Santo Marabella, Letty Hummel, and the late Michael Constantine imagined when they formed the

office in 2006 coming to fruition!

Cammie Harris, Associate Director Chris Woodward,

Board of Directors, Advisory Council, jury, judges, panelists,

2022 ReadingFilmFEST stars!

Welcome to ReadingFilmFEST 2022, a production of the ReadingFilm office, our largest program of the year! ReadingFilmFEST is a major contributor to the cultural life of the city and the region. Our 8th season presents more than 70 films and draws filmmakers, industry guests, and panelists from around the globe to create a vibrant interactive community of film professionals, film enthusiasts, and supporters.

We are proud to work with a variety of local partners to design programming this year that reduces barriers to connecting with film, provides educational opportunities, attracts new audiences, and fosters our mission to grow the film community at large.

In addition to films, this year’s FilmFEST experience includes special events featuring an Opening Night Gala at the historic WCR Center for the Arts, and parties at Nitro Bar, Saucony Creek’s Franklin Station Pub, and Reading Film Studios. Talented local artists, including the Groovemasters, Amber Rae and the Swinging Foxes, WH Dance Academy, Barrio Alegria and the This is Reading Dancers are providing exciting entertainment. The festival wraps up with a very special closing presentation of “This is Reading – Revisited”. ReadingFilm founder and my predecessor, Dr. Santo D. Marabella, is bringing back a real treat for us all! You won’t want to miss Santo’s engaging conversation with celebrity guests, Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage and Emmy-winning filmmaker Tony Gerber –creators of the incredible This is Reading multi-media presentation presented by ReadingFilm in 2017.

Thank you to all who have contributed your time and resources to create another amazing film festival! A special thank you to Tracy Schott, Creative Director; Chris Woodward, Associate Director and Juror Coordinator; Phil Black, Web Administrator; Emily Branch, Public Relations and Social Media Manager; Mimi Kolb, Graphic Designer; Margaret Yevicks, Volunteer Coordinator; and interns Victoria Leigh, Jada Lichtenwalner, and Bence Veres. Thank you, ReadingFilm Board of Directors and Advisory Council. It has been a pleasure working with you all!

On behalf of ReadingFilm, I hope you truly enjoy ReadingFilmFEST 2022 as much as we’ve enjoyed creating this year’s lineup!

Cammie Harris, Executive Director ReadingFilm

ENJOY A 10% DISCOUNT

Dinner during Reading Film FEST 2022!

your tickets

3rd & Spruce Drafthaus

S. 3rd Ave, West Reading

Brewer’s Bar & Grill

S. 3rd Ave, West Reading

Cheers’ American Bistro

Penn St, Reading

DeCarlo’s Bar & Grill

Penn St, Reading

GNA Ristorante

Penn Ave,

Judy’s on Cherry

S. 4th St, Reading

Reading

Casa Su Casa

Penn St, Reading

Saucony Creek Franklin Station

Franklin St, Reading

Ugly Oyster Drafthaus -

S. 5th St, Reading

PRESENTING

Edwin Barbey Charitable Trust

A production of ReadingFilm

READINGFILMFEST IS PRESENTED WITH SUPPORT FROM

PA Department of Community and Economic Development

EXECUTIVE PRODUCERS

Berks Community Action Program

Schott Productions

Visions Federal Credit Union

LEADING ROLES

Sweet Street

The Holleran Fund

ASSOCIATE PRODUCER

Berks Arts

Penske

Performance Toyota VENUE SPONSORS

GoggleWorks Center for the Arts

R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX WCR Center for the Arts

Alvernia University CollegeTowne Campus Courtyard by Marriott Miller Center for the Arts at RACC

PRODUCTION SPONSORS

Alvernia O’Pake Institute

BCTV

Berks County Living

Hoffmann Publishing

Santander Arena

East Penn Manufacturing Marabella Enterprises

VA Productions

HOSPITALITY SPONSORS

Lisa Tiger/CENTURY 21 Gold

Visit West Reading

Reading Film Studios

Nitro Bar

Saucony Creek Franklin Station Brewpub

PRESENTING SPONSOR

WITH SUPPORT FROM

PA Department of Community and Economic Development

A PRODUCTION OF READINGFILM EXECUTIVE PRODUCER SPONSORS LEADING ROLES

ASSOCIATE PRODUCER

VENUE SPONSORS

VENUE SPONSORS

BUSINESS SPONSORS

M. Kolb Design & Art Direction

Pagoda Apparel

Pennsylvania’s Americana Region

Cage Free Design & Public Relations Management

City of Reading

Kimberton Whole Foods

Reading Area School District

PRODUCTION SPONSORS

FRIENDS OF THE FESTIVAL

Amber Rae and the Swinging Foxes

AAUW – Reading Chapter

Bullfrog Films

Empire Home Center

Lamar Members 1st Credit Union

The Groovemasters

HOSPITALITY SPONSORS

BUSINESS SPONSORS

READINGFILMFEST TEAM

Cammie Harris, MBAExecutive Director

Cammie brings over 20 years of project management and entrepreneurial experience. She spent the early part of her career leading telecommunications projects for companies like Merrill Lynch, Allied Signal, and Realink Systems. Cammie embarked on an entrepreneurial journey after moving to the mid-west where she owned and operated three small restaurant businesses. Upon her return east, Cammie was executive director of the WCR Center for the Arts, a nonprofit performing arts organization set within a historic building in the city or Reading, PA.

Tracy Schott, MS, MSWCreative Director

Tracy Schott is the co-founder of ReadingFilmFEST and the founder of Schott Productions. She has created hundreds of film and video projects, including television commercials, webcontent, corporate communications, theatrical and event content. Tracy produced ReadingFilm’s LOCATION! LOCATION! directed the Emmy-nominated DREAM WEDDINGS and is the producer/director of the awardwinning documentary film examining intimate partner

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

violence, FINDING JENN’S VOICE. She is currently in production on FROM THE RIVER, a short documentary film on the history of Reading and Berks County, and in development on LE BON CHEF – a feature length “dramedy” about food, women and patriarchy.

Chris Woodward, MDAssociate Director & Juror Coordinator

Chris Woodward has spent his career in Medicine but has been a movie critic since childhood. At age 3, during a showing of Disney’s “The Shaggy Dog”, he told his Mom that dogs don’t talk implying the movie’s premise was absurd. This was his first lesson in the willing suspension of disbelief. He loves to find modest budget, independent movie gems to recommend to his adult children. Chris badgers, corralls and nudges our jurors to ensure that every film is seen and fairly judged.

Phil Black, Juror Coordinator, and Web Administrator Emily Branch, PR and Social Media Manager

Mimi Kolb, Graphic Designer

Margaret Yevicks, Volunteer Coordinator

Victoria Leigh, Jada Lichtenwalner, and Bence Verce, Interns

Tracy Schott, MS/MSW - Board President | CEO, Schott Productions

Chris Woodward, MD - Treasurer | Tower Health Medical Group

Carol Toomey – Secretary | Director, Rainbow Theatre

Heather Adams | Executive Director, BCTV

Wynton Butler, M.ED | Director of Social Services, Reading School District

Christian Crespo | Marketing Director, City of Reading

Caroline Fitzpatrick, Ph.D. | Associate Professor of Communication, Chair, Alvernia CollegeTowne Campus

Suzanna Fultz, JD | Attorney, Barley Snyder

Cammie Harris, MBA | Executive Director, ReadingFilm

Tracy Hoffmann | CEO, Hoffmann Publishing

Santo D. Marabella, DSW, MBA- Co-Founder | CEO, Marabella Enterprises

Michele Ramsey, Ph.D. | Associate Professor, Penn State University - Berks Campus

ADVISORY COUNCIL MEMBERS

Cara Cotellese, MS | Associate Professor, Kutztown University

John Ernesto | JazzFEST Manager, Berks Arts

John Hoskyns-Abrahall | Co-Founder & CEO, Bullfrog Films

Levi Landis, MPA | Executive Director, GoggleWorks Center for the Arts

Rick Olmos | COO & VP of Program Operations, Centro Hispano

Rodney Ridley, Ph.D. | Associate Provost & VP & COO, Alvernia University CollegeTowne Campus

Sandy Solmon, | CEO, Sweet Street

Rosario Torres, Ph.D. | Associate Professor of Spanish, Penn State University - Berks Campus

Meredith Walker | General Manager, Reading RC 11 / IMAX Theater

JURORS AND MODERATORS

Jurors: From early February through the end of June, Community Jurors are assigned an average of 9 to 12 films. Films are scored on direction, acting, writing, cinematography, music, and other criteria. A score is generated, and the Film is given a thumbs up or down. The top-rated films are then selected for screening during the festival.

Moderators: The primary role of a Moderator is to watch the films assigned to them before the festival so that during the festival, they can engage the audience and filmmaker (if present) in a lively discussion about each Film.

The following individuals represent ReadingFilmFest 2022, community volunteer Jurors and Moderators. Thank you for your service!

Omar Abdali - Juror

Barbara Balsbough - Juror

Linda Bell - Juror & Moderator

Tom Birch - Juror

Philip Black - Juror

Wynton Butler - Moderator

Rich Cavanagh - Juror

Taylor Cole - Juror

Cara Cotellese - Juror & Moderator

Michael Covello - Juror

Christian Crespo - Moderator

Ryan Dellaquila - Juror

Matthew Ducca - Juror

Rebecca Dunst - Juror

Carl Fisher - Juror & Moderator

Kyrie Fisher - Juror

John Flemming - Juror

Jim Frank - Juror

Rosemary Frank - Vitale - Juror

Theresa Gettle - Juror

Donna Hey - Juror & Moderator

Jonah Ingram - Juror

Jon Jordan - Juror & Moderator

Dave Kline - Moderator

Sheila Korick - Juror

Sue Lange - Juror

Ann Lemon - Juror

Lynneth Lohse - Juror

Santo Marabella - Juror

Todd Migliaccio - Moderator

Randy Miller - Juror & Moderator

Christopher Paolini - Juror & Moderator

Stefanie Pilkerton - Juror

Michele Ramsey - Juror & Moderator

Jen Reimer - Juror

Nancy Remaley - Juror

Jerry Richter - Juror

Rodney Ridley - Moderator

Holly Ryan - Juror

Liz Schneider - Juror

Tracy Schott - Moderator

Harry Serio - Juror

Ben Sneeringer - Juror

Lady Strongman - Juror

Carol Toomey - Juror & Moderator

Rosario Torres - Juror & Moderator

Albert Walentis - Juror & Moderator

Jani Wolf - Juror

Chris Woodward - Juror & Moderator

Greg Woodward - Juror

STUDENTFEST SCREENING

APERIO

Filmmaker: Patrick Hanser

After the death of her mother, a 10 year old girl gone quiet and her aching father must confront grief in its most nefarious form.

GRIZZ

After a young boys father passes away, his gift to his son comforts and looks after him in his fathers absence.

THE LADDER

Preschool teacher finds herself in an extended nightmare she tries and fails to help a troubled child.

BLACK BOURBON

Filmmaker: Rishi Chhapolia

An actor stuck with the pathetic supporting role of Mephisto on a student film starts method acting as the powerful lead character Faust to get his role, leading to disastrous consequences.

CALL NOW

Filmmaker: Cody Hawley

An impatient viewer (John P. Coulter) struggles to obtain the phone number to an unusual shopping channel program hosted by the quirky salesman Sam Bennington (Gene Connelly).

LA COLECTIVA:

IMMIGRANT DIARIES

Filmmaker: Leigh-Anna Nielsen

THE PIG ON THE HILL

Filmmaker: Mary Booth

Brandi, a lonely pig, wants to have friends just like her horse neighbor, Jah. Will she be able to make them on her own?

THE SHOW MUST GO ON

Filmmaker: Cody Myers

The Carlisle Theatre has a rich history since opening in 1939. Follow along as this community theatre works to put on a production of Harvey!

BIRD LADY

Filmmaker: Carter Rostron

In this short documentary, Kansas City filmmaker Carter Rostron explores the mystery surrounding a statue that has become known as the “Bird Lady.”

For years, an assortment of small ceramic birds and other figures have appeared around the base of the statue. The documentary explores what’s been happening, what it means, and how it has become a beloved part of neighborhood folklore.

CERAMIC RABBIT

Two ceramic rabbits try to rebuild their shattered home as they confront the fear of being broken. Set in a cozy abuelita’s home in San Juan, Puerto Rico, the film portrays the romance between two ceramic rabbits, Hazel and Ben. Their life on a sewing desk is torn apart one day when an earthquake destroys their ceramic house. The fiery and self-sacrificing Hazel resolves to rebuild their home by gathering the shattered pieces and gluing them back together. Along the way, she must face her deepest fears and learns that love and security can be found even in something that broken.

GOD LUCK HOPE

The viewer journeys through a luxury London urban development during which the space shifts from a neo-liberal estate to a more fragmented scene, where the layers of history and memory lie underneath. Temporally the journey also signals a travel backwards from contemporary times to the Victorian era. The film employs digital animation, 16mm and ink paintings.

FIGHT NIGHT

Filmmaker: Ethan Marx

A young couple has a fight that just might end their relationship… or, at the very least, their anniversary party.

IN-BETWEEN

Filmmakers: Tre Butler & Andrew Scofield

Recent film production graduate Eli is entering his second stage of life and struggling to find his own path. He quits his job with the expectation of a job on a big-budget film. While a party is being held at his home, he encounters a woman named Olivia who counters his pride and irritability. Her patient and practical attitude towards life dismantles Eli, and he finds himself questioning his reckless approach to life.

NIGHT SHORTS

WEST BOTTOMS

Filmmaker: Gregory Sheffer 19:42 minutes

Larry Poole is a drifter. Most nights, he can barely sleep while battling regret from decades of bad decisions. The kind of decisions that would drive anyone away…including his only daughter Jessica. With the clock ticking on whatever time he has left, this is the moment Larry determines to do whatever it takes to win back his daughter.

SURFACE DEEP

Filmmaker: John Donaldson 4:45 minutes

A young girl lives in a sheltered underground society. She is tasked by the village elder to patrol the entrance to their city. His fearmongering of a monstrous “other” leads her to commit a crime which she cannot come back from. This is a short created independently from students at Texas A&M University.

WHAT’S THE MARK?

Filmmaker: Stacey Larkins 14:10 minutes

Through the lens of an actress unintentionally involved in a controversial commercial, What’s the mark explores the power of media and advertisements in influencing public opinion and the perpetuation of stereotypes and their effects.

THE COLLECTION

Filmmaker: Rich West 11:00 minutes

CHEMISTRY

Filmmaker: Allison Sano 13:35 minutes

FIRE

Filmmaker: Samuel Diggs

Two homeless guys are faced with hard choices on a cold winter night.

A NEW TOMORROW

Filmmaker: Lea Pfandler 13:06 minutes

Drama, Romance, Latinx

Just when a young urban couple decides to extend their family, their plans get interrupted by a quintessential decision that will challenge their love for one another.

THERE’S SOMETHING WRONG WITH PAUL

Filmmaker: Mark Clauburg 12:30 minutes

Recently released from prison, Paul is reunited with his siblings over dinner. Some are not ready to forgive just yet, as a dark family secret is revealed.

29,

BLOCK

Boscov

STATE OF MIND

1:00pm

Filmmaker: Michael Sheridan

8:22 minutes

A patient battles with his therapist after a near-death experience.

BLISS

Filmmaker: Mark L. Mazzeo

3:29 minutes

Cindi has a passion for cooking. That love is tested when she posts a picture of her latest creation to social media.

FRACTAL

Filmmaker: Kiarra Goldberg

10:35minutes

Drama, Romance, Women, Dream, Slice of Life, Tragedy, Loss

Grace experiences a miscarriage after a first date leads to an accidental pregnancy. Fractal follows the story of her struggle across three different realities; memory, present-day, and a dream of what could have been. How do you mourn the loss of something that you never had?

BLACK BOURBON

Filmmaker: Dave Patten

11:42 minutes

Mystery, Drama, Thriller

A delusional father grows increasingly desperate in the hopeless attempt at finding his missing son. The search takes a dark and volatile turn as a concerned friend pays him a visit – drawing the father’s dangerous suspicion.

MAKE UP YOUR MIND

Filmmaker: Hayley Anne Nash

13:54 minutes

Sci-Fi, Mental Health, Feminist, Drama, Psychological Drama

A young woman struggling with her mental health must decide whether or not to buy a new brain.

RUTH STONE’S VAST LIBRARY OF THE FEMALE MIND

Filmmaker: Nora Jacobson

After tragedy strikes, acclaimed poet Ruth Stone

the margins of the literary world, works tirelessly to provide for her children, and transforms her intense grief into funny, startling poetry.

ARDENT ONE

Filmmaker: Emmanuel Day Beatty

minutes

experimental

POLITICS AND RACE BLOCK

29,

MELTDOWN IN DIXIE

Filmmaker: Emily Harrold

54:23 minutes

4:00pm

In the wake of the 2015 Charleston Massacre, a battle erupts in Orangeburg, South Carolina between the Sons of Confederate Veterans and an ice cream shop owner forced to fly the Confederate flag in his parking lot. This intimate, verite-driven short documentary film explores the broader role of Confederate symbolism in the 21st century and the lingering racial oppression which these symbols help maintain.

WHERE IS AMERICA, THE BEAUTIFUL?

Filmmaker: Fr3deR1cK Jerome Taylor

30:00 minutes

Part documentary and part cinematic art, this beautiful film searches for America through real story, music and spoken word.

STAY FOR THE PANEL DISCUSSION

Study TV/Film

SATURDAY SHORTS

11:07

Filmmaker: Christopher Romano

12:16 minutes

A couple grows old together.

BURN, BABY, BURN

Filmmaker: Janthony Roman

13:00 minutes

A chef is asked to cater his ex’s wedding. Let the good times roll. Burn, Baby, Burn is a romantic dark comedy about not letting go.

IDENTIBYE

Filmmaker: Sajjad Shahhatami

15:00 minutes

The protagonist of the story faces a dilemma of choosing between sense and sensibility regarding one’s innermost feelings. He has been judged from the very beginning by the ones closest to him. The fear of these never-ending judgments fills him with doubt and he has to work against the clock to achieve his goal as he knows that one’s true identity is what matters most to them. (SUBTITLED)

A WINNER

Filmmaker: Mehdi Mahaei

19:59 minutes

This film is about the story of a female filmmaker who lives and works in her mother’s greenhouse. After her film gets selected in a reputable film festival abroad, she is faced with problems to leave the country. (SUBTITLED)

GROOVE

Filmmaker: Mark L Mazzeo

1:00 minute

Matt is in the zone, he’s groovin’. Until the outside world intrudes.

METHOD: A VOICE ACTOR PREPARES

Filmmaker: Jessica Renslow

12:11 minutes

A quirky comedic short set at a recording studio, starring a thespian who takes his craft VERY seriously. Featuring some of the biggest names in animation, this live action film is a lighthearted behind the scenes look at show business.

WINNING

Filmmaker: Anne Cameron Fair

14:49 minutes

A rousing romantic comedy that explores the fiercely competitive sides in a marital relationship during a jigsaw puzzle contest. The undertaking leads to outrageous behavior by both husband and wife causing both personal trauma and upheaval in their home. Hopefully the ending will bring resolution and contentment.

WORLD VIEWS BLOCK

Boscov

ALL OF THE FILMS IN THIS BLOCK ARE SUBTITLED.

MIDDLE EASTERN STORIES: THE FATHER

A father intends to take his infant child away from his war-stricken country. He attempts by hiding in a container to flee and cross the border but with the addition of other refugees, it becomes hard for him to pursue his goal, to the point that unexpected events happen to him and the other refugees.

AU79

Filmmaker: Rafael Hovhannisyan

6:14 minutes

Valery is a retiree working as a night watchman in a newly built building. He inherited gold from his grandfather of blessed memory, which neither his daughter nor his son nor even his wife saw except him. After Armine’s death, Valery had to take her gold from home, keep it in a deserted place away from Emma’s and Ashot’s eyes. On that horrible day, he had no idea what could happen to him, that the history of what had happened to his grandfather: the elder Valery could repeat.

SMILE OF THE MASK

Filmmaker: Kiarra Goldberg

10:00minutes

This film is about a woman who is a victim of acid attack and her face is not normal. For this reason it is difficult for her to be present in the community. although because of covid, she uses a mask and enters the community. But now its the mask that smiles not her.

WHITE YET BLACK

Filmmaker: Steven Chikosi

60:03 minutes

Albinism is a condition associated with systematic discrimination in Africa, Steven Chikosi’s documentary interrogates the attitudes of Africans towards their kin, based on the colour of their skin.

LA MITAD DEL MUNDO/THE MIDDLE OF THE WORLD

Filmmaker: Erika Valenciana

20:00 minutes

Three brave girls tell their harrowing stories through a combination of experimental camerawork and paper stop-motion animation to protect their identities, including animation created by survivors. Shortly after being rescued, underage survivors are in the process of healing in a safehouse in Mitad del Mundo, Ecuador, a town located at 0 degrees latitude. Far from being throwaways, the girls are but young people searching for their true selves after surviving traumatic events. Years later, they acclimate to life outside of the safehouse. Although robbed of their childhoods, once far along, it becomes apparent they have yet to lose their dreams and hope for the future.

THE CANDY TIN

Filmmaker: Shane Butler

14:30 minutes

A grimy, dented candy tin sits in a thrift store. How did it get there? What stories could it tell? Who used it, loved it—and left it?

An Irish immigrant picks up a gleaming “Ruth’s Home Run” candy tin in a general store in 1920s America. From the rocking 50s to the dour 2000s to The Future, the candy tin travels through modern America.

CRAZY FOR THE BLONDE

Filmmaker: Mark Clauburg

17:59 minutes

Two serial killers compete for the same victim, a blondehaired woman who has plans of her own.

DANTE

Filmmaker: Amin Tabaar

18:00 minutes

A man who forced to assignment his lovely dog search to find a best person and... (SUBTITLED)

‘LIS(E)N

Filmmaker: Cary Wayne Moore

10:47 minutes

Thriller, Pyschological, Spiritual, Experimental

Between heartbeats and worlds, soul and sin meet to make a decision; regain control or discover what lies in the ether.

MUSIC DOCUMENTARIES

DON’T PUT HER DOWN

Filmmaker: Julia Golonka

32:07 minutes

This film takes its title from Hazel Dickens’ powerful anthem Don’t Put Her Down, You Helped Put Her There, and explores how she, along with her musical partner Alice Gerard, became the first women to front a bluegrass band and reflects on the role of women in bluegrass today. The film covers Hazel’s migration to Baltimore from coal country West Virginia, her activism for coal miners and working people, and the impact her upbringing had on her songwriting. Lifelong collaborators and upand-coming musicians share what it means to have bluegrass songs written from a woman’s point of view and keep Hazel’s memory alive.

ONE BUCK WON’T HURT

Filmmaker: Christopher Stoudt

15:39 minutes

Drama, Coming-of-Age, Profile

“One Buck Won’t Hurt” follows four Black teenagers from New Orleans supporting themselves by tap dancing for tips in the French Quarter. Following them from adolescence to adulthood, this coming-of-age story explores the reckless joys of youth and the bitter realities of growing up fast in the incarceration capital of the world.

MADE IN READING

30, 2022

Movies 11 & IMAX • 1:30pm

THE IDIOT’S GUIDE TO SWINDLING AND AMATEUR FILMMAKING

Filmmaker: Bence Veres

15:54 minutes

Barry, Igor, and Butterscotch are three young amateur filmmakers with big dreams of becoming Hollywood directors. To gain recognition, the bumbling trio decide their next endeavor will be a short film about a jewelry store robbery. Meanwhile, two grifters, Larry and Terry, are tired of being small time criminals, so they plot to rob the local marijuana dispensary. When their actors drop out of production last minute, the filmmakers cross paths with Larry and Terry during their robbery, and the two crews join forces to make their dreams come true...

THE RETAILER

Filmmaker: Jared Haas

47:02 minutes

Discovering his daily life is consumed by mentally draining obstacles, Jack Humanick decides to seek help from a renowned psychiatrist, Dr. Patricia Kreidel. Patricia becomes an immediate sympathizer to Jack’s everyday drama- the out of touch boss who Jack despises, the encounters with a cocky coworker gunning for Jack’s job, and an ill mother who’s high expectations add to his already heightened stress level. All of this compiles with the always intolerable customers he must satisfy to keep the store numbers high, and his job intact. After uncovering Jack’s problems in her first session with him, Dr. Kreidel begins to realize the picture Jack is painting for her may not be as abstract as initially thought, but more so a symbol of realism.”

THE STICKLET WEAVER

Filmmaker: James Hollenbaugh

7:36 minutes

Documentary

Brent Brown is a self-taught artist with lifelong mental health challenges. Intuitive and deeply talented, in recent years he has started building complex, highly fanciful “puppets” constructed from dozens of cardboard elements with fully moveable joints. “The Sticklet Weaver” explores Brent’s process and celebrates his unique artistic journey.

INTERVIEW WITH A

MODERN ARTIST

Filmmaker: Howard Donnell

3:11 minutes

Casper Camtan is a classical visual artist who paints cats. After having a nervous breakdown, he decides it is time to reveal the truth about modern art with one inflammatory manifesto. The result is the cat’s meow.

THE STICKLET WEAVER

AAUW-Reading Chapter presents LUNAFEST

October

LUNAFEST® LUNCHEON

October 30, 2022 • Noon Lunch • Goggleworks

HOW TO BE AT HOME

Filmmaker: Andrea Dorfman (Halifax, NS)

An animated poem about coping with isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CLOSE TIES TO HOME COUNTRY

Filmmaker: Akanksha Cruczynski (Chicago, IL)

An immigrant dog walker finds connection in the hearts of the wealthy pets she cares for.

GENERATION IMPACT: THE CODER

Filmmaker: Samantha Knowles (Brooklyn, NY)

A 13-year-old girl designs and builds a mobile app to help kids stay connected to their incarcerated parents by sending photos and letters.

/

Films R/C Reading Movies 11 & IMAX Buy tickets

GENERATION IMPACT:

PROOF OF LOSS

Filmmaker: Katherine Fisher (Los Angeles, CA)

When a fire takes their home, a father and daughter must find a way to salvage what remains: each other.

WHEN YOU CLEAN A STRANGER’S HOME

Filmmaker: Sharon Arteaga (Austin, TX)

A first-generation high school student describes what she and her mom learn about people when cleaning their homes.

BETWEEN THE LINES:

LIZ AT LARGE

Filmmaker: Abi Cole (Weaverville, NC)

Frustrated with the lack of character diversity in The New Yorker’s cartoons, an artist submits her own illustrations, becoming the first Black woman cartoonist in the magazine’s nearcentury run.

WEARABLE TRACY

Filmmaker: Emily McAllister (Carnelian Bay, CA)

A Bronx woman’s accidental social experiment connects her with fellow New Yorkers who might otherwise forever remain strangers.

TO THE FUTURE, WITH LOVE

Filmmakers: Shaleece Haas (Los Angeles, CA) and Hunter “Pixel” Jimenez (Los Angeles, CA)

An animated self-portrait of a nonbinary trans teen caught between the expectations of his Guatemalan immigrant family and his dreams of living happily ever after with his long-distance boyfriend.

TO THE FUTURE, WITH LOVE

PROOF OF LOSS

WEARABLE TRACY

WHEN YOU CLEAN A STRANGER’S HOME

BETWEEN THE LINES: LIZ AT LARGE

THE MICK AND THE TRICK

OCTOBER 28, 2022 • 7:30 PM - 9:15 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX

Filmmaker: Tom DeNucci 1:37:01

Action, Drama, LGBTQ

An Irish hit man working for a Cuban crime boss and the IRA wants out. But neither the Cuban crime boss nor the IRA can let that happen. He knows too much. But with the help of a very animated and savvy street hooker named Sugar, the hit man’s chances of getting out just got better.

SPLINTER

OCTOBER 28, 2022 • 9:30 PM - 10:30 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX

Filmmaker: Tom Ryan 55:00 minutes

While renovating his recently inherited home, Scott Wills steps on a small splinter. The wound only grows worse as Scott learns the history of the town, it’s people and a terrible family legacy.

THE BOARDING HOUSE

OCTOBER 29, 2022 • 2:30 PM - 3:45 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX

Filmmaker: Maryam Ebrahimvand 1:11:00

Mehri is struggling with a temptation to kill someone in order to release her husband from prison. In the meantime, she meets three young girls in a boarding house , one of whom has been raped and the other is addicted due to having an addicted boyfriend, and Goli, another girl who has separated from her family for the love of being an actress... (SUBTITLED)

THE SEVEN

OCTOBER 29, 2022 • 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM

ALVERNIA - COLLEGE TOWNE CAMPUS

Seven teens receive cryptic letters that suggest they carry a strange power within, but when a mysterious woman seeks to unite their forces they are confronted with a difficult choice.

PERSON WOMAN MAN

CAMERA TV

OCT 29 2022 • 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX

Filmmaker: Niav Conty

01:17:00

Barack Obama was starting his second term, hope was more than just a hashtag, and Sam met Samantha. Seven years later, 2020 happened. A tragicomedy about race, romance, and remembering.”

CONTRATIEMPO

OCTOBER 29, 2022 • 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX

Filmmaker: Jose Angel Paredes Rios

1:30:00

Drama, Music

Antonio “Dexter” Jimenez is a single father, divorced, focus on his work and getting by. But everything changes when his old friend finds him again after many years and decides to bring “Vulvox” back, their old rock band they founded back in the 90s. They get their old bandmate Charlie, and they recruit a new one called Karime, a singer who’s 20 years younger than them, but will attract a younger audience. Although it’s a small local band, all four of them are really excited. However, Dexter is also concerned about it because, even though music is his passion, it also brings along several bad experiences from his past and addictions that may cost him everything he loves and cherishes. (SUBTITLED)

NOT FOR NOTHING

OCT 29 2022 • 9:00 PM - 10:00 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX Filmmakers: Tim Dowlin, Frank Tartaglia

1:43:51

A group of modern day Italian and Irish American men, some of them sons of past mob associates, who all frequent the same local corner bar. These men have been lost in the shuffle of the ever-changing world — outsiders now in the neighborhood where they grew up. When the bar owner’s teenage daughter is found dead from a drug overdose, the group collectively decides to track down the source of the drugs when they learn that her body was dumped and police suspect foul play.

DANGEROUS SUN

OCT 29 2022 • 9:30 PM - 10:30 PM

GOGGLEWORKS BOSCOV THEATRE

Filmmaker: Anna Lvovna Makeeva 60:03

The Future. The irreparable happened, the sun became dangerous for people. A few people, hiding from sunlight in closets in an anti-radiation house survived. Thanks to a certain Shepherd, they have a chance to stay fed. The Shepherd has the ability to convert energy into a nutritious liquid. Phillip, the main character, is very tired of living in fear, he dreams of freedom, of the sun. In the conditions of the dangerous sun, he looks like a stupid dreamer. He finds in his closet a small sprout that has sprouted in a charming matter.

(SUBTITLED)

DOCUMENTARIES

THE SWEETEST LAND

OCT 28 2022 • 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX - THEATER 2 Filmmaker: Jeffrey B. Teitler

In urban America, there are communities where unprecedented courage resides, extraordinary families are tested and improvement is difficult to find. Not unlike other cities, Hartford, Connecticut has been named one of America’s most violent small towns. There are millions spent on violence prevention, passionate calls for equality and new promises, broken…until now. From the midnight surgeons, to the beat cops and a community on the front lines of hope and sacrifice, a new truth is about to be told. THE SWEETEST LAND – a documentary film on gun violence, prevention and politics, where nothing is what it seems. Sponsored by: Alvernia University College Towne

OLGA’S ODYSSEY

OCT 29 2022 • 12:00 PM - 1:20 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX - THEATER 2 Filmmaker: Adrian Steve Horodecky 1:20:00

The story of the filmmaker’s mother Olga Leskiw, who was born in western Ukraine in 1931, escaped the Russians in 1944, lived in a German DP camp for 5 years, and came to America in 1949 to live her life.

STAND TOGETHER

OCT 29 2022 • 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM

ALVERNIA - COLLEGE TOWNE CAMPUS Filmmakers: Julia Adilman, Nicole Fryer 1:08:00

An ongoing movement to address racism in our community launched in 2020 by local Berks County youth has been documented in the new film entitled Stand Together. The hour-long documentary tells the story of Youth Volunteer Corps of Reading students’ Stand Together Against Racism (S.T.A.R.) initiative to address racism through education and dialogue that is initiated and facilitated by youth.

THIRST FOR JUSTICE

OCT 29 2022 • 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX - THEATER 1 Filmmaker: Leana Hosea 57:49

“You might think America is a democracy, where freedom of speech and basic rights are guaranteed. But at its heart, there is a great injustice. Against all the odds several extraordinary citizens are banding together and fighting back for their basic right to clean water. Armed only with facts and their illnesses, they risk arrest to take on the might of industry and government. From Flint to the Navajo Nation, via Standing Rock, this is their story.”

BLACK INVENTORS

GOT GAME (BIGG)

OCT 29 2022 • 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM

ALVERNIA - COLLEGE TOWNE CAMPUS

Black Inventors Got Game (BIGG) is a featurelength documentary that tells the story of six African inventors and their groundbreaking contributions to the toy and game industry.

African Americans have created many toys and products marketed by major toy manufacturers over the years, yet they are relatively unknown to the general public.

Join us for a special Q&A featuring two of the six trailblazing inventors, James Howard and David Vonner, Moderated by: Wynton Butler

LET ME BE ME

OCT 29 2022 • 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM

GOGGLEWORKS BOSCOV THEATRE

Filmmaker: Dan Crane, Katie Taber

01:15:00

When the Westphal family learned that their 6-year-old Kyle was on the Autism spectrum, they feared they might never develop a real connection to their child. Withdrawn and constantly wrapping himself in fabric and blankets, Kyle was retreating from the world around him. Let Me Be Me reveals what happens when a boy who used fabric as his shield to hide himself grows up to become a fashion designer, forging connections with friends and family along the way.

Kyle Westphal, the subject of the film. will be present for the post-film Q&A

DOCUMENTARIES

UNGUARDED

OCT 29 2022 • 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

GOGGLEWORKS BOSCOV THEATRE

Filmmaker: Simonetta D’Italia Wiener “UNGUARDED takes us inside the walls of APAC, the revolutionary Brazilian prison system centered on the full recovery and rehabilitation of the person.

Beginning in 1972, APAC founder Dr. Mario Ottoboni volunteered in some of Brazil’s worst prisons. Seeing men and women frequently return to a life of crime once they left prison, Dr. Ottoboni decided to found his own restorative justice-based system. The results have been extraordinary: while the crime rate and recidivism rates have continued to increase in Brazil’s public prisons, within the APAC (Association for the Protection and Assistance of Convicts) system they have steadily decreased. (SUBTITLED)

STAY FOR THE PANEL DISCUSSION

ENTANGLED

OCT 29 2022 • 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM

GOGGLEWORKS BOSCOV THEATRE

Filmmaker: David Abel 1:15:00

ENTANGLED chronicles the efforts to protect North Atlantic right whales from extinction, the impacts of those efforts on the lobster industry, and how the National Marine Fisheries Service has struggled to balance the vying interests.

CRUTCH

OCT 29 2022 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

R/C READING MOVIES 11 & IMAX - THEATER 1 Filmmakers: Sachi Cunningham, Vayabobo 1:36:11

CRUTCH chronicles the gravity-defying life of Bill Shannon, an internationally renowned artist, breakdancer and skate punk—on crutches.

Two decades of exclusive access, plus a lifetime of archival footage, depict Bill Shannon from his early years, to his rise as an award-winning dancer and cutting-edge performance artist whose work finds outlet at prestigious venues worldwide.

HONK

OCT 30 2022 • 1:30 PM - 2:20 PM

GOGGLEWORKS BOSCOV THEATRE

Filmmaker: Cheryl Allison 46:29 minutes

Dumped and alone at a city park, Honk spends his days dodging cars, begging for food and looking for friends. When Cheryl and Honk’s path cross unexpectedly, what follows is a story in which fairy tales are made. During an unprecedented time of lock downs and social distancing, this unlikely pair turn to each other for companionship. After Cheryl shares videos of their unusual friendship on social media, Honk becomes an overnight sensation. News and other media outlets share his story which results in people all over the world becoming invested in his well-being. Cheryl soon learns why Honk is alone and the two embark on an uncertain journey together.

Sponsored by Wyomissing Animal Hospital

SPECIAL EVENTS

SPECIAL PRESENTATION –ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW

OCT 27 2022 • 10:30 PM - 12:00 AM

GOGGLEWORKS BOSCOV THEATRE

The Rocky Horror Picture Show is the ultimate cult classic that brings out the weird in everyone. Featuring an all-star cast, a cooky storyline, and amazing music, the film by itself is great fun. But when you add the audience antics, it’s an event worth staying up late for… Join ReadingFilmFEST with Live Shadow Cast Performance and Interactive Audience Participation

SHADOW CAST

Directed by Amie Vanité

Frank N. Furter – Amie Vanité

Brad – Jon Witmyer

Janet – Melanie Pomerantz

Riff – Andrew Pochan

Magenta – Amanda Evans Columbia – Aly Dynda

Eddie – Nadia Pochan

Rocky – Tom Paolini

Dr. Scott – Bill Eschbach

Criminologist – Randy Miller

FILMMAKER HAPPY HOUR

OCT 28 2022 • 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

If you are a filmmaker or VIP guest you are invited to mix and mingle with us! Must have Filmmaker Pass or VIP Pass

READING FILMFEST GALA

OCT 28 2022 • 5:30 PM - 8:00 PM

WCR CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Welcome to ReadingFilmFEST 2022 Opening Night Gala! Join us in welcoming this years filmmakers, schmooze with your friends, walk the red carpet, pose for the paparazzi and enjoy entertainment by Amber Rae and the Swinging Foxes. This event is open only to Filmmakers and VIP Passholders.

SCREEN PLAY TABLE READ: OUR PRESTIGIOUS FACULTY

OCT 29 2022 • 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

ALVERNIA - COLLEGE TOWNE CAMPUS

Join us for a staged reading of our screenplay contest winner, OUR PRESTIGIOUS FACULTY!

Dramedy, loosely inspired by Chekhov’s Three Sisters, three art professors at different stages of their careers struggle to find the balance between their personal and artistic identities and obligations to an academic institution that is struggling to survive.

This screen play dramedy was written by Rani Deighe Crowe. Rani is a theater and film artist. Her recent short films include Beautiful Eyes, Welfare Check, Texting: A Love Story, The Test, and Heather Has Four Moms. Her screenplays include Recess Duty TV Pilot, Heather Has Four Moms TV Pilot, Our Prestigious Faculty, Spec script of The Newsroom: Bigger Guns, Serenity Now short film, The Shoot short film.

Creative Direction by: Santo Marabella and Cara Cotellese

LISA TIGER/CENTURY 21 GOLD/ VISIT WEST READING PRESENT AFTER-PARTY WITH THE GROOVEMASTERS

OCT 28 2022 • 9:30 PM - 11:30 PM

NITRO BAR, 416 PENN AVE, WEST READING, PA

Get your groove on with the coolest band in town while you party with the ReadingFilmFEST filmmakers and all the cool kids who make this festival happen – our volunteers!

SPECIAL EVENTS

THIS IS READING – REVISITED — PANEL DISCUSSION

OCT 30 2022 • 3:00 PM - 4:00 PM

RACC - MILLER CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Screening of THIS IS READING, an exciting film version of the multi-media performance held at Franklin Street Station in 2017. Created by Pulitzer Prize winning playwright and Emmy award winning filmmaker Tony Gerber, This Is Reading gave rise to the birth of Ms. Nottage’s second Pulitzer prize-winning and Tony nominated play,

SWEAT, through which the story of Reading’s past was shared nationally.

PANELISTS

The film will be followed by a conversation with Lynn Nottage, Tony Gerber, and former Reading Film Commissioner, Santo Marabella.

THIS IS READING DANCERS

Jaymes Williams

Ashanique Monlyn

Theresa Gonzalez

Stephanie Seda Caliph Shabzz

Liyanah Sheriff

HAPPY HOUR AT SAUCONY CREEK/FRANKLIN STREET STATION PUB

OCT 29 2022 • 5:00-6:30 PM

FRANKLIN STREET STATION PUB

100 S. 7TH ST., READING, PA 19602

For all you train buffs and beer connoisseurs, you won’t want to miss Happy Hour at the original Franklin Street Station and site of the 2017 performance of This is Reading! Great food and live music!

ALL HALLOWS’ GALA AT READING FILM STUDIOS

OCT 29 2022 • 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM

READING FILM STUDIOS

531 CANAL STREET, READING, PA 19602

Hang out with our friends from Reading Theater Project who bring creativity and fun to all of their events! Featuring live music by Hesse’s Hot Jazz, magic by Matty Whipple, DJ selektron, and more! Dress up for Halloween and enter the costume contest! Cash bar and refreshments offered. This is a ticketed event. VIP, Volunteer, and Filmmaker passholders admitted free!

AWARDS CEREMONY

OCT 30 2022 • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

GOGGLEWORKS CENTER FOR THE ARTS ReadingFilmFEST presents awards to films judged best by our celebrity judges, in the following categories: Best Feature, Best Short, Best Documentary, Social Impact Award, Best Actor/ Actress, Best Cinematography, Best Musical Score, Best Made in Reading, Best Latino Film, Best Film by a Female Filmmaker, and the People’s Choice Award! Reception to follow.

CLOSING CELEBRATION

OCT 30 2022 • 7:00 PM

GOGGLEWORKS CENTER FOR THE ARTS –ROOM 428

Join us as we celebrate Reading with our closing event featuring the THIS IS READING dancers, WH Dance Academy Salsa Dancers, Barrio Alegria and DJ Dontrey! This event is free and open to the public. Cash bar.

EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

“THIS IS HOW IT ENDS. EVERYTHING GOES:” HEROES AND HORRORS IN AN AGE WITHOUT HOPE

OCT 26 2022 • 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

PENN STATE BERKS CAMPUSPERKINS AUDITORIUM

Contemporary American culture is marked by widespread feelings of anger and frustration. Kendall Phillips explores the way these feelings have circulated in popular American films over the past twenty years. Films ranging from The Purge to Captain America: The Winter Soldier have shared a theme that the systems of governance and authority are irredeemable and the fantasy that they can be utterly refused. The rhetorical dynamics and implications of this fantasy are considered as is the relationship between popular culture and politics.

This is a free event and open to the public Sponsored by Penn State Berks

STUDENT ASSEMBLY: MEET LOCAL BASKETBALL PLAYERS TURNED ACTORS FROM THE FILM “HUSTLE”

OCT 27 2022 • 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM

ALVERNIA - COLLEGE TOWN CAMPUS

The film HUSTLE, directed by Jeremiah Zagar, was shot in various locations within the surrounding Philadelphia area and featured local basketball players as the supporting cast. Join our panel discussion with local basketball players turned actors as they share their experiences in the film and how playing basketball made them the perfect fit for the part.

Panelists Brian Nerney, Julius Jordan Rick Mccalop, Chaz Brown Moderator: Wynton Butler and Mike Miller

Private Event Alvernia University and Reading High School Students: Limited Seating, must Register to attend at: Filmfreeway.com/ReadingFilmFEST

Click on Tickets, Select Hustle Student Pass

STUDENT ASSEMBLY: BLACK INVENTORS GOT GAME (BIGG)

OCT 28 2022 • 10:00 AM

READING HIGH SCHOOL Black Inventors Got Game (BIGG) is a featurelength documentary that tells the story of six African inventors and their groundbreaking contributions to the toy and game industry. African Americans have created many toys and products marketed by major toy manufacturers over the years, yet they are relatively unknown to the general public.

James Howard is the Producer of the film Black Inventors Got Game (BIGG), and the founder and executive director of the Black Inventor of Hall of Fame. James Howard has 19 patents and has designed more than 400 products in his 40-year career, including toys for Crayola and Johnson & Johnson. In addition, James Howard is a college professor, design historian, entrepreneur, industrial designer, inventor, and restauranteur. Howard brings over 25 years of experience as a design professor and has authored a course on Design Thinking and Design History that explores the impact of design on society.

David Vonner has designed some of our favorite toys, action figures, and collectibles. From the rock band KISS to your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man, the Superstars of the WWE, and the highly popular collector action figure line Marvel Legends. The Legends figure War Machine bears Vonner’s likeness, as does the 3 3/4” War Machine in the Iron Man 2 Comic Book series. In addition, David has designed and developed products for notable companies such as Spencer Gifts, Marvel, Spinmaster, Hasbro, and Mattel, generating hundreds of millions of dollars in sales revenue.

Join us for a special Q&A featuring two of the six trailblazing inventors, James Howard and David Vonner, Moderated by: Wynton Butler

EDUCATIONAL EVENTS

DEVELOPING, PACKAGING, & FINANCING FILM PRODUCTION

OCT 28 2022 • 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM

COURTYARD BY MARRIOTT

The 3 hour course will go through the development process of creating all of the packing elements needed for an Ultra-Low, Moderate Low or Low Budget feature film.

A case study of films along with series and documentaries from a variety of genres, budgets and countries will be presented in order to see what worked and what didn’t. A deep dive into the US, Canadian and European film financing process will then be covered to articulate where funding comes from through both private and public opportunities. Participants will have the opportunity to pitch their projects during the last portion of the workshop and raise questions to the group for guidance and support.

Instructed by Kevin Christoffersen

Kevin Christoffersen

Kevin Christoffersen has been working in just about every form of media for nearly 3 decades - producing content internationally across 4 continents while living in 5 countries. Kevin is an Educator and Development Executive of, ‘Film StartUp.’

In this role, Kevin guides filmmakers through the A-to-Z feature film development process with workshop courses, development labs, webinars, and consultations. A recent strategic partnership with Largo Films has introduced artificial intelligent analytics into the casting, financing, and distribution strategies within the dynamics of each of his projects. Kevin was based in Switzerland for over 7 years as Executive Producer of World Television managing large scale live broadcast event productions for Fortune 500 companies, United Nations agencies and NGO’s. While operating on both sides of the Atlantic, he continues to form new industry partnerships along the way...

CREATIVE FILM FINANCING

OCT 29 2022 • 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

GOGGLEWORKS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Filmmakers take many approaches to finding the funding they need to make their next film–from self-funded micro-budgets, to co-productions, to creating sophisticated investment packages. Join us as we discuss the pros and cons of these different approachesand whatmakes sense for your project.

PANELISTS:

Kevin Christoffersen–Development Executive, Film Start-up Ian Kimble–Feature and ShortsFilmmaker

H. Paul Moon–Documentary Filmmaker

Moderated by: Tracy Schott

Ian Kimble

Ian studied at the New York Film Academy and has since written, directed, and produced numerous short films and a feature length film, all of which garnering accolades at multiple film festivals. As a producer, his concentration is on a fast and efficient process while holding true to the things important to him, including diversity in the cast and crew and a socially conscious and responsible set. Ian’s productions and screenplays are devised using a reverse engineering process, which results in the best chance for a low-cost and fast production schedule. This has guided his approach to financing projects and developing long term relationships with investors and sales companies.

H. Paul Moon

Paul (zenviolence.com) is a filmmaker, professor and attorney based in New York City and Washington, D.C. whose work concentrates on the performing arts. He teaches editing, and manages a network of online communities at focuspulling. com and docofilm.com that keep pace with new camera technologies and documentary news. Major works include “Sitka: A Piano Documentary” (sitkadoc.com) about the craftsmanship of Steinway pianos, and “Quartet for the End of Time”

(quatuor.xyz) about Olivier Messiaen’s transcendent WWII composition. Moon’s first feature, an acclaimed and award-winning documentary about the life and music of American composer Samuel Barber (samuelbarberfilm.com), premiered on PBS, and he is currently finishing another documentary feature about Western poetry (westdocumentary.com).

FILMMAKER ACTORS PANEL

OCT 29 2022 • 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

GOGGLEWORKS CENTER FOR THE ARTS

Working and Living the Actor Life! Behind the glitter and glamour, film and television actors play their most challenging role-making a living as an actor. In this workshop, you’ll learn from seasoned working actors how they cope, survive and ultimately flourish as a working actor.

PANELISTS:

Lisa Eichhorn, Erinn Holmes Robert Morgalo, Pete Postiglione

Moderated by: Santo D. Marabella

Lisa Eichhorn

Reading native, Lisa Eichhorn is an actress, writer and producer. She made her film debut in 1979 in the John Schlesinger film Yanks, opposite Richard Gere, for which she received two Golden Globe nominations. Her international career has included film, theatre and television. She appeared alongside Lee Remick in the Merchant-Ivory production “The Europeans” (1979), opposite Treat Williams in “Why Would I Lie?” (1980) and was “Mo” Cutter in “Cutter’s Way” (1981), opposite Jeff Bridges and John Heard. In the 90s, Eichhorn has begun to play mother roles, notably Jesse Bradford’s mother, sent to a sanitarium, in Steven Soderbergh’s “King of the Hill” (1993) and the First Lady in the pallid comedy “First Kid” (1996). Ms. Eichhorn continues to work both on stage and on screen.

Erinn Holmes

Erinn Holmes is an Illinois native, now based in NYC. Screen credits include the TV series Fleishman Is in Trouble (ABC Signature / FX), That Damn Michael Che (HBO Max), and The Young & the Restless (CBS); the

short film “Twice As Good” (part of NBC Universal & Target’s Scene in Color Film Series); and the TV pilot Franklin Street Station (Marabella Entertainment & Education Enterprises). NYC theatre credits include before the flood (Chain Theatre), Dick Pix (Theaterlab), Jericho (Attic Theater Company), Catapult! (Theater for the New City), The Guest at Central Park West (The Workshop Theater), and From the Inside, Out (FringeNYC). Regional theatre: Disgraced (Fulton Theatre, PA), Two Rooms (Crane River Theater, NE). Acting MFA, University of Nebraska at Lincoln.

Robert Morgalo

Robert J Morgalo is an award winning LatinX actor, director, producer, screenwriter, and published author. He is the grandson of renowned Cuban actor and poet, Jorge Raul Guerrero. Robert nis a retired and disabled US Army combat veteran. He has a Bachelor of Arts in Middle Eastern Studies from American Military University and a Master of Arts in Diplomacy from Norwich University. He has appeared in numerous films and television shows including Law & Order, FBI, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Blue Bloods and most recently his own film, THE MICK & THE TRICK, premiering at ReadingFilmFEST this year.

Pete Postiglione

Philadelphia actor Pete Postiglione started his acting career in 2006, amassing credits in TV, Film, Commercials and New Media. Pete has worked with such notable directors as Paul Michael Glaser, Curtis Hanson and Oscar winner, David O. Russell. He is most known for Silver Linings Playbook (2012), Slow Learners (2015) Hollywould (2019) and most recently, Last Call (2021). Pete is multi-talented and creative, and has directing, writing and both Executive Producer and Producer credits. Most recently, Pete directed, co-wrote, and co-produced,”The 7” an Actors Co-op original film screening as a special selection in this year’s festival. Located in Swarthmore, PA, Pete is the co-founder of the Actors Co-op, which offers film and television acting classes for children, teens and adults.

READINGFILMFEST JUDGES

EDWARD BUFFMAN - BEST FEATURE

Ed Buffman is a multiple award-winning director/cinematographer with a great range of project experience. Throughout his career, he has directed and shot numerous television commercials, corporate films, documentary and music productions, infomercials, live sports programs, live television events as well as web and multi-media presentations. This work includes humorous and dramatic action and dialogue and a documentary style. Ed has directed actors and real people as well as celebrities, sports personalities, and politicians.

CHRISTIAN CRESPO –BEST MADE IN READING JUDGE

Christian Crespo made history in June 2020 when hired by the City of Reading as their first Communications professional. With a promising career of over five years, the Latino with Puerto Rican roots is motivated by his genuine and passionate character and possesses credits as a Producer and Director of his Christmas Special Una Cantata a los Reyes Magos and Production Assistant of shows from major Hispanic stations such as Univision Puerto Rico. Mr. Crespo completed his educational formation at the Ferré-Rangel School of Communications through Sagrado University at San Juan Puerto Rico, earning a Bachelor in Arts of Communications. More recently, he leads successful multimedia campaigns in the City of Reading, increasing their audiovisual offer as a form of communication with the residents of Reading and beyond.

KELLY DEVINE – BEST DOCUMENTARY AND SOCIAL IMPACT AWARD JUDGE

Kelly DeVine has served as the Artistic Director for the Global Peace Film Festival Artistic Director since 2006. Connecting story to community in action, the GPFF supports and amplifies the work of Central Florida civic, faith, educational and activist groups by curating film and media events to raise awareness and catalyze audiences. She has consulted on impact projects for award-winning documentaries such as Bully, How To Survive A Plague. This is Kelly’s 6th year as our Documentary/Social Impact Award Judge! We’re grateful for her ongoing support of the festival!

KEVIN HACKENBERG – BEST SHORT FILM AND BEST CINEMATOGRAPHY JUDGE

With over 25 years experience in the film world as a DP, Director, and Producer, Kevin is a trusted source for any size project and is considered one of the East Coast’s premier DPs for his beautiful visuals, steadicam and drone work. Known for THE SIXTH SENSE (1999), THE BELOVED (2011), CHASING AMY (1997) THE WOODSMAN (2004), EQUITY (2016) and AS YOU ARE (2019). Kevin is also the creator of FUNNY & AMEN, a series of shorts proving that Christians actually can have a sense of humor.

MICHEAL BUTERBAUGH - BEST MUSIC JUDGE

Mike Buterbaugh is a is a 1980 Music Education graduate of Lebanon Valley College (PA). He went on to enjoy a 34-year teaching career, retiring from the Schuylkill Valley School District in Berks County, where he was the Director of Vocal Music and taught music history, theory, humanities, and the Music Keyboard Lab Ensemble, a course he created combining elements of performance, digital sequencing, arranging, and composition. While at Schuylkill Valley, he also worked in various roles, from set designer to producer and music director for over 30 musical theatre productions, and considers music directing productions of Titanic, Les Misérables, and Ragtime to be among his most satisfying experiences. Since 2014, Mike has been the Music Education Advisor for the Reading Musical Foundation, a local non-profit devoted to advancing and advocating for music education and appreciation in Berks County. Honored to serve as a 2022 FilmFEST judge, he notes that he first developed a fondness for independent films after renting (in Beta video format) Fantastic Animation Festival in the early ‘80s.

RICK OLMOS - BEST LATINX FILM JUDGE

Rick Olmos was named Chief Operating Officer of Centro Hispano Daniel Torres in April 2019. In this capacity, Mr. Olmos is responsible for the strategic management of Centro Hispano, including day-to-day operations. Mr. Olmos brings to bear a strong track record of leading collaboratively across all levels of the nonprofit world and fostering a corporate culture of workforce engagement and professional development.

Mr. Olmos has worked in the public relations and marketing field for over twenty-five years. Mr. Olmos’ other career adventure was in the television/film industry where he worked both in front of the

camera as an actor and behind the camera as a casting director/ extras casting director. Olmos worked on such films as Selena, The Postman, Pearl Harbor, and Dig. He has been involved with the television series Friday Night Lights.

ADAM LAZARRE-WHITE - BEST ACTOR JUDGE

Adam Lazarre-White grew up in NYC, was a 3-sport high-school athlete, played guitar and saxophone; and went on to graduate Harvard University, where he was the starting QB and played in the Harvard Jazz Band. Adam studied acting in NY and LA, then became known as a young actor on Living Single, Martin and for his colorful role as “Flynn” on the EMMY winning mini-series, The Temptations. A highlight of his early career was being nominated for an NAACP Image Award as “Nathan” on The Young & The Restless. His later credits include The GIFT, Blacklist, Scandal, Grey’s Anatomy, Lethal Weapon, Private Practice, Heroes, The Parkers, and Ocean’s 13 among others. In 2021-2022, he’s on The Upshaws (Netflix), Flinch (Amazon) and coming soon, BlackJack Christmas (BET) and The Old Way (w/Nic Cage). As a writer, Adam was a senior writer on Vin Desil’s groundbreaking streaming show, The Ropes then staffed on NCIS NEW ORLEANS in 2020 and ‘21. His writing career began, both adapting and producing two films for TV, which won Regional EMMYs in ‘98 and ’99, Just Passin’ Through and What Angels Fear. As a Director, his film “200 YEARS” reached the 3rd round of Oscar voting for Best Live Action Short, and he is preparing to direct one of his several original feature film scripts this coming year.

CAROLYN MACDONALD - BEST FEMALE FILM MAKER JUDGE

Carolyn is the award-winning executive producer of AMERICA’S DREAM (HBO), BUFFALO SOLDIERS (TNT) and FREEDOM SONG (TNT), and Big Kenny Alphin’s inspiring documentary, BEARING LIGHT (NatGeo). Prior to running Danny Glover’s Carrie Productions, she was a part of the Warner Bros. TV advertising/publicity team, and later a Creative Executive at Cinecom Entertainment Group. She directed and produced the short film “P.N.O.K.” featuring Danny Glover & Elle Fanning, the documentary DESIGN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD, and several music videos & corporate films for Nissan, the Nashville Civic Design Center and the Nashville Film Festival. As a screenwriter, she has scripted works for 20th Century Fox, GMC, a variety of indie producers, and most recently adapted the novel “The Color of Hope.” Carolyn is also the prolific photographer of her ongoing project NOUNS IN THE ROAD exhibition, which has been exhibited in galleries in Nashville, TN, and Charlotte, NC, and has several high profile collectors.

SUE LANGE – BEST SCRIPT JUDGE

Sue Lange is a screenwriter, playwright, novelist, short story writer, and columnist. Her novella, We Robots, was recently republished by Night Shade Books in the MORE HUMAN THAN HUMAN anthology. Her first feature film, DUST NUGGETS, was released early 2020 on Amazon’s Prime Video. Sue is the producer/ writer of TRAFFIC OPERA, nominated for best short film and best edited film at the 2018 Nice International Film Festival, and the producer/director/writer of the award-winning short A PERFECT YOU. Sue is the writer/producer of PRINCESS DANCER and JUMP. Her current project, LE BON CHEF, in development, was the 2020 winner of the Apple Film Festival Best Comedy Script. Sue is an award-winning playwright whose work has been produced throughout the country.

SANTO D. MARABELLA – BEST SCRIPT JUDGE

Santo D. Marabella, MBA, DSW, The Practical Prof® and the 2018 Reading Eagle Entertainment Newsmaker of the Year, is an author, playwright, filmmaker, speaker and educator with writing, directing and/or producing credits that include books, television pilots, a musical, short films and plays. He was a producer of This Is Reading by Lynn Nottage. He co-founded and executive produced ReadingFilmFEST (2015 through 2017), as well as co-founded and served as Film Commissioner, ReadingFilm (2006 to 2018).

Current projects include: director/producer, “This Machine” (video/ audio play); producer, “Flashlight” (feature); producer, “Le Bon Chef” (feature) writer/producer, “The Caregiver” (short); writer, “Barbara Saves Herself” (screenplay) and writer/creator, “Raising the ‘Rents” (TV pilot). He is a member of The Lambs®, The Dramatists Guild of America and Theatre Communications Group. More information can be found on his IMDB profile.

CARA CORTELLESE - BEST SCRIPT JUDGE

Cara has been teaching in higher education for over 30 years. She is currently a Professor in the department of Cinema, Television and Media production at Kutztown University where her specialty is live television. This is her second year of being involved with the Reading FilmFest as a judge and moderator and is excited to be part of such a great event.

THIS IS READING - REVISITED

In 2011, September 26 to be exact, the New York Times declared Reading, PA, the poorest city (per capita) in the United States. Some have argued the label was unfair or inaccurate. I think it was just what we needed to wake up, take action and be better! Regardless, few will disagree that having Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright, Lynn Nottage, take notice and take interest in Reading has been one of the best things to happen to our community.

Lynn came to us in her usual way, with curiosity but without judgement. By engaging individuals and organizations to tell their story, she hoped to understand why and how we were where we were, but more importantly she wanted to create a way for us to celebrate our past and contemplate our future. She succeeded!

In 2017, along with Emmy-award winning filmmaker Tony Gerber, she created This Is Reading, a multi-media art installation at the once-abandoned Franklin Street Train Station in Reading, PA. Dance, theater, music and film filled the station with excitement, energy and people – more than 3400 people. The three-weekend run drew its audience from all parts of the city and beyond. They came separately, they enjoyed together!

Now, 5 years later, as I look back on the impact of this amazing project, I am giddy and grateful. This Is Reading spawned new life and new activity throughout our community. The most obvious impact is that the abandoned train station is now home to a thriving microbrewery and restaurant. And, the work Lynn did to create This Is Reading gave rise to the birth of her second Pulitzer prize-winning play, SWEAT, through which the story of Reading’s past (and many other communities like it) was shared across our country, not just our county.

Yet, there is a more subtle, albeit deeper impact –optimism and hopefulness are palpably present. And, I believe they have inspired a Reading Renaissance – a re-birth, in the truest sense. Because Lynn, through This Is Reading, embraced our community as an old friend

who saw who we are and what we could be – we are better for it. Wanting to commemorate this auspicious anniversary, ReadingFilmFEST is proud to present, THIS IS READING – Revisited during this year’s festival:

Sunday, October 30, 3:00pm: Screening of This Is Reading, an exciting film version of the performance from 2017; Miller Center for the Arts at RACC; followed by conversation with Lynn Nottage and Tony Gerber and Santo D. Marabella; $20 ticket; free to FEST VIP pass holders

Sunday, October 30, 7pm: Closing Night Celebration following the award ceremony and reception, featuring original performers from This Is Reading; GoggleWorks Center for the Arts, Room 428

If you missed the original, you’ll definitely want to see Revisited; and if you experienced the original, come back for an encore!

Santo D. Marabella, Producer, This Is Reading, Marabella Enterprises

ReadingFilmFEST 2022 Schedule THURSDAY, October 27

Thursday, October 27, 2022

TIME GoggleWorks

11

CollegeTowne

Friday, October 28, 2022

ReadingFilmFEST 2022 Schedule FRIDAY, October 28

TIME GoggleWorks

11 IMAX 12

AM Film Assembly BIGG at Alvernia Collegetowne Campus

PM Filmmakers Workshop with Kevin Christoffersen: Developing, Packaging & Financing at Courtyard by Marriott

Premiere

MICK AND

(1:37:01)

University presents a Special Selection Documentary: (1:04:00)

THE SWEETEST LAND

(0:55:00)

Assembly with

at Reading High School

Marriott

Happy Hour at Marriott

GALA at WCR Center for

Lisa Tiger/Century 21 & West

present After Party at NITRO BAR featuring

Groovemasters

ReadingFilmFEST 2022 Schedule

SATURDAY, October 29

Saturday, October 29, 2022

TIME GoggleWorks

10:00 AM Filmmaker Panel: Creative Film Financing

11:30 AM Actor ’s Workshop: Living and Working the Actor ’s Life

12:00 PM

1:00 PM MENTAL HEALTH: (0:48:02)

● BLISS

● FRACTAL

● STATE OF MIND

● BLACK BOURBON

● MAKE UP YOUR MIND

1:30 PM

2:00 PM Documentary: (01:15:00)

LET ME BE ME

IMAX 11 IMAX 12

OTHER

Made in Reading Documentary: OLGA’S ODYSSEY (01:20:00)

Documentary:(0:57:49)

THIRST FOR JUSTICE

Made in Reading Documentary: STAND TOGETHER (01:08:00) At Alvernia CollegeTowne

Special Selection Doc: (0:45:00)

BIGG: BLACK INVENTORS GOT GAME At Alvernia CollegeTowne

Documentary: (01:21:12)

● RUTH STONE’S VAST LIBRARY OF THE FEMALE MIND

● ARDENT ONE

2:30 PM

Feature: (01:11:00) THE BOARDING HOUSE

Screenplay Table Read OUR PRESTIGIOUS FACULTY At Alvernia CollegeTowne

3:00 PM Special Selection Student Film: (0:53:11) THE SEVEN At Alvernia CollegeTowneReadingFilmFEST 2022 Schedule

4:00 PM Documentary: (0:47:15) UNGUARDED

POLITICS AND RACE DOCS: (01:24:43)

● MELTDOWN IN DIXIE

● WHERE IS AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL

SATURDAY SHORTS: (1:28:15)

● BURN BABY BURN

● IDENTIBYE

● A WINNER

● 11:07

● GROOVE

● A VOICE ACTOR PREPARES

● WINNING

5:00 PM

5:30 PM Documentary (01:15:00) ENTANGLED

6:00 PM

7:00 PM WORLD VIEW (1:53:49)

● AU79

● SMILE OF THE MASK

● WHITE YET BLACK

● MIDDLE EASTERN STORIES: FATHER

● LA MITAD DEL MUNDO (THE MIDDLE OF THE WORLD)

Documentary: (1:36:11)

CRUTCH

Feature: (1:17:00)

PERSON WOMAN MAN CAMERA TV

Happy Hour at Saucony Creek Brew Pub, Franklin St Station

8:00 PM

9:00 PM

9:30 PM Feature: (01:00:03)

DANGEROUS SUN

LatinX Feature: (01:30:00)

CONTRATIEMPO

Feature: (1:43:51)

NOT FOR NOTHING

Reading Theater Project presents All Hallows Gala at Reading Film Studios

SUNDAY, October 30

Sunday, October 30, 2022

TIME GoggleWorks

10 AM

12:00 PM LUNAFEST RECEPTION

12:00 PM Music Docs: (47:46)

● DON’T PUT HER DOWN

● 1 BUCK WON’T HURT

IMAX 11 IMAX 12

OTHER

Marabella Enterprises presents Filmmaker Brunch & Tour Reading Film Studios

SUNDAY SHORTS: (1:01:16)

● THE CANDY TIN

● CRAZY FOR THE BLONDE

● DANTE

● ‘lis(e)n

1:00 PM LUNAFEST (01:28:00)

1:30 PM Wyomissing Animal Hospital presents Documentary: (46:29) HONK

MADE IN READING: (01:13:42)

● THE IDIOT ’S GUIDE TO SWINDLING

● THE RETAILER

● STICKLET WEAVER

● INTERVIEW WITH A MODERN ARTIST

3:00 PM

THIS IS READING revisited Documentary/Discussion with Lynn Nottage and Tony Gerber at Miller Center for the Arts

5:30 PM AWARDS CEREMONY & Reception

7:00 PM CLOSING CELEBRATION

FeaturingTHIS IS READING Dancers