Friday, February 26, 2010
3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival announces Modesto Run at the historic State Theatre February 26-27, 2010

Friday, February 26, 2010
Theodore Thomas, University of the Pacific alumnus, to be honored with San Joaquin Film Society's 2010 Ambassador Award

Monday, February 22, 2010
San Joaquin Film Society presents film "They Came to Play" to benefit the Stockton Symphony at 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival on February 24th, 6:30PM

Monday, February 8, 2010
The Haggin Museum presents Celtic Family Festival, celebrating 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival's Opening Night film "The Secret of Kells" with Irish music, dance, and hands-on activities

Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Congratulations 2010 Academy Award Nominees from the San Joaquin Film Society

Wednesday, January 20, 2010
"The Secret of Kells," 2010 Academy Award-Shortlisted Animated Film by Irish Director Tomm Moore, is the Opening Night Film of 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Friday, January 15, 2010
"Walt & El Grupo" by Pacific Alumnus Theodore Thomas is the Closing Night Film of 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Oren Moverman's "The Messenger" is the Centerpiece of the 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Thursday, June 4, 2009
3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival Announces Worldwide Call for Entries and Festival Dates February 20-27, 2010

3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival announces Modesto Run at The State Theatre February 26-27, 2010

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San Joaquin Film Society presents film "They Came to Play" to benefit the Stockton Symphony at 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival on February 24th, 6:30PM

Published: Monday, January 22, 2010

Stockton, California, USA - The San Joaquin Film Society will present a special screening of Alex Rotaru's "They Came to Play" at the 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF3) to benefit the Stockton Symphony.

The show will take place Wednesday, February 24th, 2010, at 6:30PM, at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204).

The film's director Alex Rotaru will be present, along with accomplished pianists and film subjects Esfir Ross and Ken Iisaka, who will perform live during the show.

More details, trailer, reviews: www.sjiff.org/festival/f-play.html
Press kit and film stills: www.sjiff.org/downloads.html

• Sophoan Sorn, Founder, San Joaquin Film Society: “We feel honored to partner with the beloved Stockton Symphony, to present this charming and inspiring film, filled with glorious sights and sounds. The San Joaquin Film Society's Film Benefit program is a unique collaboration with select local cultural and community organizations, to support their important endeavors by raising funds for them through the screenings of innovative new films. As this film is making its way across America, from New York to Honolulu, we are so thrilled to welcome this gem to town and to have the presence of: director Alex Rotaru; and pianists Esfir Ross and Ken Iisaka. Join us for an unprecendented and unforgettable evening!"

THE FILM

Synopsis: "'They Came to Play' chronicles the Fifth International Piano Competition for Outstanding Amateurs, hosted by The Van Cliburn Foundation. Players from all over the world, ranging from self-taught to classically-trained, aged thirty-five to almost eighty, convene in Fort Worth, Texas for a week of intense competition, music and camaraderie. The film the film provides an intimate look into the lives of these colorful, multi-faceted competitors as they strive to balance the demands of work and family with their love of music. Years of dedicated preparation culminate in critical performances before a professional jury and discerning audience during three nerve-wracking elimination rounds."

"They Came to Play" had its World Premiere at the Lone Star International Film Festival in Texas, screened at the prestigious Film Society of Lincln Center, and won the Audience Award at the 2008 Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival.

Admission is $25.00 per person.
For advance tickets online: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT DIRECTOR ALEX ROTARU

Alex Rotaru was born in Bucharest, Romania, to playwright Eugen Rotaru and actress Maria Rotaru. After an early career as an award-winning child actor, he fell in love with science, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Physics from Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with highest honors in his class. Inspired by his stint studying film at the Sorbonne, he switched gears again, interrupting his PhD and returning to his first love - cinema. He attended University of Southern California's School of Cinema-Television and earned a Master of Fine Arts Degree in Film/TV Production. Since graduation, he has worked in script development, and most recently in TV documentaries. Recipient of a 2006 Christopher Award, Alex lives in Los Angeles, California.

ABOUT THE FILM FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF), the annual flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society and California Central Valley's most prestigious festival of cinema, is: a showcase of new, innovative, and award-winning works from emerging talents and seasoned artists from the Americas and the World. The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival takes place February 19-27, 2010 in the home base of Stockton (primarily at the Stockton Empire Theatre) along with two days in Modesto (The State Theatre). The festival will features a bold collection of new films - along with guest filmmakers and luminaries, galas, and programs for all ages.

ABOUT THE FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS) is the benchmark cinema arts organization in California's 400-mile Central Valley. The Film Society is home to the annual San Joaquin International Film Festival and the year-round World Cinema Series. The Film Society celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals and educational programs.The Film Society is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking, bringing the world's best, rarest, and newest works in cinema arts and media discoveries to the Valley. The Film Society presents over 100 shows and events annually, featuring over 200 films from 40+ nations. The Film Society welcomes over 100 visiting directors, actors, luminaries and cinema arts educators; along with social events and galas, special screenings, and workshops for filmmakers and filmgoers. The Film Society's illuminating programs reach diverse and multi-cultural audiences of over 20,000 people annually.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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The Haggin Museum presents Celtic Family Festival, celebrating 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival's Opening Night film "The Secret of Kells" with Irish music, dance, and hands-on activities

Published: Monday, February 8, 2010

Stockton, CA - In conjunction with the 3rd Annual San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF3), The Haggin Museum is hosting Celtic Family Festival on Saturday, February 13th, 1:30-4:00 p.m. as part of its 2nd Saturdays for Families series. (Museum is located within Victory Park at 1201 N. Pershing Ave., Stockton, 95203)

Celebrating SJIFF3's Opening Night film, the 2010 Academy Award-nominated animated feature film "The Secret of Kells" from Ireland: This Saturday afternoon event at the museum will feature storytelling, games, dance, "manuscript" illumination and other hands-on art activities focusing on Celtic arts and culture. Music will be performed by members of the Black Irish Band.

Sophoan Sorn, creator of SJIFF, will give a special preview of the film festival, present exclusive film trailers, conduct a Q&A with the audience, and officially launch the Program Guide of SJIFF3.

All materials for the Celtic Family Festival are provided by the museum and included with regular admission: $5 adults; $2.50 ages 10-17, 65+; free for children under 10 and museum members. No reservations are necessary.

For more information, contact Curator of Education Lisa Cooperman at (209) 940-6315 or education@hagginmuseum.org.

ABOUT THE FILM FESTIVAL

This afternoon event complements the screen offerings of the 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF3). SJIFF, the annual flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society and California Central Valley's most prestigious festival of cinema, is: a showcase of new, innovative, and award-winning works from emerging talents and seasoned artists from the Americas and the World. SJIFF3 will take place February 19-27, 2010 in the home base of Stockton (primarily at the Stockton Empire Theatre) along with two days in Modesto (The State Theatre). The festival will features a bold collection of new films - along with guest filmmakers and luminaries, galas, and programs for all ages.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

ABOUT THE HAGGIN MUSEUM

The Haggin Museum, Stockton's "Cultural Gem" and the oldest museum in San Joaquin County, is open Wednesday-Sunday, 1:30-5:00PM, and the first and third Thursdays, 1:30-9:00PM. For disabled access, please call the museum ahead of time at (209) 940-6300 or 940-6317.

Official Website: www.hagginmuseum.org.

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Congratulations 2010 Academy Award Nominees from the San Joaquin Film Society

Published: Tuesday, February 2, 2010

Stockton, California, USA - Founder Sophoan Sorn and the San Joaquin Film Society Board of Directors extend their congratulations and warmest wishes to the nominees and creators of nominated films of the 82nd Annual Academy Awards (The Oscars®), a presentation of the prestigious Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. (for full list of nominees, visit http://www.oscar.com)

The following films and filmmakers have graced or will grace the screens of the San Joaquin Film Society.

• "The Secret of Kells," (directed by Tomm Moore) the charming Opening Night Film of SJIFF3 about family, faith and imagination is nominated for Best Animated Feature.
Details: http://www.sjiff.org/festival/f-kells.html

• Woody Harrelson's captivating role in SJIFF3's Centerpiece Film "The Messenger" (directed by Oren Moverman) has garnered him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Writers Alessandro Camon and Oren Moverman are nominated for Best Writing (Original Screenplay) for "The Messenger."
Details: http://www.sjiff.org/festival/f-messenger.html

• Israel's most critically-acclaimed film ever - "Ajami," (directed by Scandar Copti and Yaron Shani) SJIFF3's Focus Israel presentation - is nominated for Best Foreign Language Film.
Details: http://www.sjiff.org/festival/f-ajami.html

• "French Roast," (directed by Fabrice O. Joubert) a favorite animated film from the Film Society's French Cinema Day of August 2009 is nominated for Best Animated Short Film.
Details: http://www.sjiff.org/fcd09/films.html

• "The Young Victoria," (directed by Jean-Marc Vallée) a special screening at SJIFF3 has garnered three nominations for Best Art Direction, Best Costume Design and Best Makeup.
Details: http://www.sjiff.org/festival/f-youngvictoria.html

Experience the Awards Buzz at SJIFF3!
Get tickets today: http://www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT THE FILM FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF), the annual flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society and California Central Valley's most prestigious festival of cinema, is: a showcase of new, innovative, and award-winning works from emerging talents and seasoned artists from the Americas and the World. The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival will take place February 19-27, 2010 in the home base of Stockton (primarily at the Stockton Empire Theatre) along with two days in Modesto (The State Theatre). The festival will features a bold collection of new films - along with guest filmmakers and luminaries, galas, and programs for all ages.

ABOUT THE FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS) is the benchmark cinema arts organization in California's 400-mile Central Valley. The Film Society is home to the annual San Joaquin International Film Festival and the year-round World Cinema Series. The Film Society celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals and educational programs.The Film Society is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking, bringing the world's best, rarest, and newest works in cinema arts and media discoveries to the Valley. The Film Society presents over 100 shows and events annually, featuring over 200 films from 40+ nations. The Film Society welcomes over 100 visiting directors, actors, luminaries and cinema arts educators; along with social events and galas, special screenings, and workshops for filmmakers and filmgoers. The Film Society's illuminating programs reach diverse and multi-cultural audiences of over 20,000 people annually.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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"The Secret of Kells," 2010 Academy Award Contender by Irish Director Tomm Moore, is the Opening Night Film of 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Published: Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Stockton, California, USA - The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF3) of the San Joaquin Film Society, will open with a special screening of "The Secret of Kells," the multiple award-winning and Academy Award contender by Irish director Tomm Moore.

The film will screen Friday, February 19th, 2010, at 7:00PM, at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, CA 95204).

More details, trailer, reviews: www.sjiff.org/festival/f-kells.html
Press kit and film stills: www.sjiff.org/downloads.html

• Sophoan Sorn, Founder, San Joaquin Film Society: “We are honored to celebrate and open the third anniversary of our flagship festival with 'The Secret of Kells,' one of the world's most celebrated and newest independent animated films. This magical, intelligent, and gloriously-picturesque film about family, faith and imagination will touch the hearts of children and adults."

THE FILM

Synopsis: "Do not miss the highly anticipated new animated masterpiece from the producers of "Kirikou and the Sorceress" and "Triplets of Belleville! Magic," fantasy and Celtic mythology come together in a riot of color and detail that dazzle the eyes in this sweeping story about the power of imagination and faith to carry humanity through dark times. Features the voices of Brendan Gleeson ("Harry Potter," "In Bruges"), Mick Lally, Evan McGuire and Christen Mooney. Young Brendan lives in a remote medieval outpost under siege from barbarian raids. But a new life of adventure beckons when a celebrated master illuminator arrives from foreign lands carrying an ancient but unfinished book, brimming with secret wisdom and powers. To help complete the magical book, Brendan has to overcome his deepest fears on a dangerous quest that takes him into the enchanted forest where mythical creatures hide. It is here that he meets the fairy Aisling, a mysterious young wolf-girl, who helps him along the way. But with the barbarians closing in, will Brendan's determination and artistic vision illuminate the darkness and show that enlightenment is the best fortification against evil?" (Source: GKIDS)

"The Secret of Kells" held its World Premiere at the 2009 Berlin International Film Festival. In June 2009, at the 62nd Edinburgh International Film Festival (the oldest film festival in the world), the film became the first animated feature to win the Audience Award. It went on to win another Audience Award the 49th Annecy International Animation Festival in France, the most prestigious festival of animated cinema. The film is currently one of 20 animated features short listed for the 2010 Academy Awards. It is also a contender of the 2010 Irish Film and Television Awards for Best Irish Film. A national theatrical release in the United States is slated for March 2010.

Admission is $11.00 General, $10.00 Senior 65+ / Student, and $9.00 Member. Person. For advance tickets online: www.sjiff.org/tickets

OPENING NIGHT CO-PRESENTERS

• The Haggin Museum was founded in 1931, an art and history museum located in Stockton, has been referred to by Sunset magazine as "one of the undersung gems of California." The museum will host a pre-SJIFF event celebrating "The Secret of Kells", with the Celtic Family Festival on Saturday, February 13, 2010 from 1:30PM to 4:00PM. The museum states: "Everyone is Irish for the day at this family festival. Enjoy games, music, dance, poetry and other hands-on learning in this museum wide day of fun."

• GKIDS is the producer of the New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF), the largest festival of its kind in the country, and a distributor of award-winning filmed entertainment specializing in titles that cross over between art-house and family audiences.

ABOUT DIRECTOR TOMM MOORE

Tomm Moore is the co-founder and company director of Cartoon Saloon. Since founding the company in 1999 with Paul Young, Tomm has worked on almost every Cartoon Saloon production in various capacities including directing and designing commercials for clients including Cadburys and the Irish Independent, illustrating graphic novels and children’s books and working as animation artist on several TV series and feature film productions. Having completed his first feature film “The Secret of Kells” he is currently working on the graphic novels of the film and his new feature film “The Song of the Sea”. Tomm is a lifelong comic book and animation enthusiast.

ABOUT THE FILM FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF), the annual flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society and California Central Valley's most prestigious festival of cinema, is: a showcase of new, innovative, and award-winning works from emerging talents and seasoned artists from the Americas and the World. The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival will take place February 19-27, 2010 in the home base of Stockton (primarily at the Stockton Empire Theatre) along with two days in Modesto (The State Theatre). The festival will features a bold collection of new films - along with guest filmmakers and luminaries, galas, and programs for all ages.

ABOUT THE FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS) is the benchmark cinema arts organization in California's 400-mile Central Valley. The Film Society is home to the annual San Joaquin International Film Festival and the year-round World Cinema Series. The Film Society celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals and educational programs.The Film Society is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking, bringing the world's best, rarest, and newest works in cinema arts and media discoveries to the Valley. The Film Society presents over 100 shows and events annually, featuring over 200 films from 40+ nations. The Film Society welcomes over 100 visiting directors, actors, luminaries and cinema arts educators; along with social events and galas, special screenings, and workshops for filmmakers and filmgoers. The Film Society's illuminating programs reach diverse and multi-cultural audiences of over 20,000 people annually.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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"Walt & El Grupo" by Pacific Alumnus Theodore Thomas is the Closing Night Film of 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Published: Friday, January 15, 2010

Stockton, California, USA - The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF3) of the San Joaquin Film Society, is proud to welcome home writer and director Theodore Thomas, an alumnus of Stockton's University of the Pacific, for the Central Valley Premiere of his film "Walt & El Grupo" at the festival's Closing Night Gala. "Walt & El Grupo" will screen Friday, February 26th, 2010, at 7:00PM, at the festival's southern venue, The State Theatre (1307 J Street, Modesto, California 95354). Director Thomas will be present at the screening with his wife and producing partner Kuniko Okubo.

More details, trailer, reviews: www.sjiff.org/festival/f-waltandelgrupo.html
Press kit and film stills: www.sjiff.org/downloads.html

• Sophoan Sorn, Founder, San Joaquin Film Society: “I am thrilled to get to know director Ted and his wife Kuniko, whose teamwork brought forth this intelligent, fascinating, and spirited film about the citizen diplomacy of Walt Disney and friends on their journey to South America, during a time of global uncertainties. The masterful film celebrated the magic of friendship and cultural understanding. I was elated when Ted shared with me his memories at University of the Pacific in the early 1970's. Ted and Kuniko, welcome!"

THE FILM

Synopsis: "The year was 1941, and the world was on the brink of war. In an effort to improve relations between the Americas, the Roosevelt administration called upon one of Hollywood’most influential filmmakers to embark on a special goodwill tour. Written and directed by Theodore Thomas (“Frank and Ollie”) and produced by Kuniko Okubo, the documentary "Walt & El Grupo" chronicles the amazing ten-week trip that Walt Disney and his hand-picked group of artists and filmmaking talent (later known as “El Grupo”) took to South America at the behest of the U.S. Government as part of the Good Neighbor Policy.

Little is known about this chapter in the life of an extraordinary man, one that Disney would later recall as “the toughest period I’ve had in my whole life.” Within just three short years after the phenomenal success of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” the Walt Disney Studios experienced a chain of financial challenges that ultimately led to the infamous animators strike. Also during this time, the Roosevelt administration had growing concerns about Nazi and Fascist influence in Latin America, and the rest of the world was slipping further into war. In stark contrast to these trying times, Disney and his colorful group of artists found themselves on a lively trip full of hope and discovery as they explored various South American cities, spending the majority of their time in the countries of Argentina, Brazil and Chile. The group was saddled with an unusual assignment – while gathering story material, immersing themselves in the culture, befriending local artists, meeting political leaders and attending countless functions, their journey was also a de facto diplomatic mission, and as a result, the studio produced the classic films“Saludos Amigos” and “The Three Caballeros.”

Shot on film in five countries, "Walt & El Grupo" is a tale that still resonates on both sides of the equator. The film time travels in Walt Disney’s footsteps through the use of personal letters and stunning artwork from the trip, remembrances by descendants and survivors, and extraordinary never-before-seen footage. "Walt & El Grupo" brings together an intertwined story of art and politics, the poignancy of a bygone age, and a legendary artist during one of his most trying times.

A Walt Disney Pictures release presented by The Walt Disney Family Foundation Films, in association with Theodore Thomas Productions. Executive produced by Walter E.D. Miller.

"Walt & El Grupo" held its World Premiere at the 2008 San Francisco International Film Festival, internationally premiered at the 2008 Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival in Brazil and held its European Premiere at the 2008 Rome International Film Festival. In September 2009, the film opened a theatrical run in New York City and Los Angeles.

Admission is $11.00 General, $10.00 Senior 65+ / Student, and $9.00 Member. Person. For advance tickets online: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT DIRECTOR THEODORE THOMAS

Son of legendary animator Frank Thomas, Theodore Thomas was born and raised in Los Angeles. Extended stays in India and Japan, and world travels with a camera, eventually led him to making motion pictures. A Fellow of the Sundance Institute and a recipient of a California Arts Council Screenwriting Fellowship, Ted is also a published still photographer and a musician specializing in traditional jazz.

The creative team of Theodore Thomas and his wife, Kuniko Okubo, has received critical praise and audience recognition worldwide for film work in diverse formats and genres, including feature documentaries, broadcast narratives and documentary work, and Circlevision and IMAX films. Whether writing and directing on assignment or producing one of their own films, their collaborative work is characterized by imagination, strong story sense, and an ability to give complex themes emotional resonance and context. In their hands, a film about how toys are made became a musical fantasy of two wind-up toys in search of their origins ("Where the Toys Come From," The Disney Channel). They have turned a story of grizzly bears and humans into a parable of cultural conflict ("The Grizzlies," National Geographic), captured the philosophical musings of the first men to walk on the moon ("Return from Space," Toho-Towa), and essayed the life-long friendship of two artists who created many of the most enduring moments in cinematic history ("Frank and Ollie," Buena Vista). And all of it has been done with an engaging humor, lyricism, and poignancy that has brought accolades including an Emmy, a Writers Guild Award, two more Writers Guild nominations, an International Documentary Association Award nomination, top film festival award from San Francisco, and recognition from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.
(source: www.waltandelgrupo.com)

ABOUT THE FILM FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF), the annual flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society and California Central Valley's most prestigious festival of cinema, is: a showcase of new, innovative, and award-winning works from emerging talents and seasoned artists from the Americas and the World. The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival will take place February 19-27, 2010 in the home base of Stockton (primarily at the Stockton Empire Theatre) along with two days in Modesto (The State Theatre). The festival will features a bold collection of new films - along with guest filmmakers and luminaries, galas, and programs for all ages.

ABOUT THE FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS) is the benchmark cinema arts organization in California's 400-mile Central Valley. The Film Society is home to the annual San Joaquin International Film Festival and the year-round World Cinema Series. The Film Society celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals and educational programs.The Film Society is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking, bringing the world's best, rarest, and newest works in cinema arts and media discoveries to the Valley. The Film Society presents over 100 shows and events annually, featuring over 200 films from 40+ nations. The Film Society welcomes over 100 visiting directors, actors, luminaries and cinema arts educators; along with social events and galas, special screenings, and workshops for filmmakers and filmgoers. The Film Society's illuminating programs reach diverse and multi-cultural audiences of over 20,000 people annually.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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Oren Moverman's "The Messenger" is the Centerpiece of the 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival

Published: Wednesday, January 13, 2010

Stockton, California, USA - The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF3) of the San Joaquin Film Society, is proud to announce that its Centerpiece film will be "The Messenger" directed by American filmmaker Oren Moverman, starring Ben Foster, Woody Harrelson, and Samantha Morton. The film selected for the Centerpiece program is a cinematic story that captures the essence of humanity, power of expression, and universality of cinema arts. "The Messenger" will screen Saturday, January 20th, 2010, at 7:00PM, at the Stockton Empire Theatre (1825 Pacific Avenue, Stockton, California 95204).

More details, trailer, reviews: www.sjiff.org/festival/f-messenger.html
Press kit and film stills: www.sjiff.org/downloads.html

THE FILM

Synopsis: "In his most powerful performance to date, Ben Foster stars as Will Montgomery, a U.S. Army Staff Sergeant who has just returned home from a tour in Iraq and is assigned to the Army’s Casualty Notification service. Partnered with fellow officer Tony Stone (Woody Harrelson) to bear the bad news to the loved ones of fallen soldiers, Will faces the challenge of completing his mission while seeking to find comfort and healing back on the home front. When he finds himself drawn to Olivia (Samantha Morton), to whom he has just delivered the news of her husband’s death, Will’s emotional detachment begins to dissolve and the film reveals itself as a surprising, humorous, moving and very human portrait of grief, friendship and survival. Featuring tour-de-force performances from Foster, Harrelson and Morton, and a brilliant directorial debut by Oren Moverman, "The Messenger" brings us into the inner lives of these outwardly steely heroes to reveal their fragility with compassion and dignity." Written by Alessandro Camon and Oren Moverman; and photographed by Bobby Bukowski. (source: Oscilloscope Laboratories)

"The Messenger" held its World Premiere at the 2009 Sundance Film Festival and became highly-acclaimed and awarded at some of the most prestigious competitions in the world. At the Berlin International Film Festival of February 2009, the film was honored with the Silver Bear for Best Screenplay and the Peace Film Award. At the Deauville American Film Festival (France) of September 2009, it won the Grand Prize and the Critics. Woody Harrelson is nominated for the 2010 Golden Globe Awards for Best Supporting Actor.

Admission is $9.00 General, $8.00 Senior 65+ / Student, and $7.00 Member. Person. For advance tickets online: www.sjiff.org/tickets

ABOUT DIRECTOR OREN MOVERMAN

Born in Israel, Oren Moverman moved to New York to work in film in 1988 after completing four years of military service as an infantry soldier. He co-wrote Todd Haynes’ Bob Dylan biopic "I'm Not There," starring Cate Blanchett, Christian Bale, Heath Ledger, Richard Gere, Michelle Williams, Julianne Moore and Charlotte Gainsbourg, a Weinstein Company release. Oren also collaborated with Ira Sachs on "Married Life," a 2008 Sony Pictures Classics release, starring Rachel McAdams, Chris Cooper, Pierce Brosnen and Patricia Clarkson, and on "The Goodbye People," currently casting. Oren penned "Interrupted" about legendary director Nicholas Ray, for City Lights Pictures with Phillip Kaufman directing, and "William Burroughs' Queer" for actor/director Steve Buscemi. Both films are currently casting. Oren served as screenwriter of "Face," an Indican release, starring Bai Ling, Treach and Kristy Wu. Directed by Bertha Bay-Sa Pan, "Face" premiered in competition at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival. Oren was also a screenwriter and associate producer of "Jesus' Son," a 2000 Lion’s Gate / Alliance Release. Directed by Alison Maclean, the film stars Billy Crudup, Samantha Morton, Jack Black, Holly Hunter & Dennis Hopper. "The Messenger" is his first film as a director.

ABOUT THE FILM FESTIVAL

The San Joaquin International Film Festival (SJIFF), the annual flagship festival of the San Joaquin Film Society and California Central Valley's most prestigious festival of cinema, is: a showcase of new, innovative, and award-winning works from emerging talents and seasoned artists from the Americas and the World. The 3rd San Joaquin International Film Festival will take place February 19-27, 2010 in the home base of Stockton (primarily at the Stockton Empire Theatre) along with two days in Modesto (The State Theatre). The festival will features a bold collection of new films - along with guest filmmakers and luminaries, galas, and programs for all ages.

ABOUT THE FILM SOCIETY

The San Joaquin Film Society, Inc. (SJFS) is the benchmark cinema arts organization in California's 400-mile Central Valley. The Film Society is home to the annual San Joaquin International Film Festival and the year-round World Cinema Series. The Film Society celebrates cinema arts, multi-cultural appreciation, and global outreach through year-round productions of festivals and educational programs.The Film Society is dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and power of filmmaking, bringing the world's best, rarest, and newest works in cinema arts and media discoveries to the Valley. The Film Society presents over 100 shows and events annually, featuring over 200 films from 40+ nations. The Film Society welcomes over 100 visiting directors, actors, luminaries and cinema arts educators; along with social events and galas, special screenings, and workshops for filmmakers and filmgoers. The Film Society's illuminating programs reach diverse and multi-cultural audiences of over 20,000 people annually.

Official Website: www.sjiff.org

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^ back to top

02/19/10 (Print): Modesto Bee - "'Walt and El Grupo' tops the bill at State film festival"

02/18/10 (Print): The Record - "San Joaquin film festival opens on Miracle Mile"

02/13/10 (News): Examiner.com - "SJIFF promises movies the entire family will love"

02/13/10 (Print): The Record - "Celtic Festival to be at The Haggin"

02/13/10 (TV): Good Day Sacramento - Celtic Family Fest Preview with Alan Sanchez

02/08/10 (News): eSan Joaquin - "Linden filmmaker releases second film"

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