Opportunities for Filmmakers

The Deadlines section of sf360.org is a large but selective list of festival calls for entry, upcoming seminars, artist residencies, grant and award deadlines and other opportunities for filmmakers. Are we missing an important deadline? Please write us at sgerhard[at]sffs.org.

Festival: Hot Docs

Hot Docs – Canadian International Documentary Festival (April 26–May 6, 2012) is a competitive event seeking Canadian and international documentaries of all lengths (feature length: 60 min. or longer; mid-length: 30 to 59 min.; short: under 30 min.) and subject matter. ELIGIBILITY: Submissions must have been completed after January 1, 2011; cannot have been screened publicly prior to January 1, 2011; must be Toronto premieres; must be in English, subtitled in English; must be exhibited in one of the following screening formats: 35mm film, DigiBeta (NTSC or PAL) and HDCAM. Entry fees: $33.90 CDN for short films; $67.80 CDN (before December 2, 2011) or $118.65 CDN (before January 13, 2012) for mid and feature length films. AWARDS: Hot Docs features two juried competition programs and several noncompetitive programs. DEADLINE: December 2, 2011 (early); January 13, 2012 (late). WEBSITE: hotdocs.ca/.

Opportunities: International Film Festival Summit

International Film Festival Summit (December 4–6, 2011), held in Austin, Texas, is the largest international organization representing the film festival industry. The IFFS mission is to promote and strengthen the global film festival industry through education, networking, dissemination of information, and the cultivation of high standards. This year's featured topics include Anatomy of a Festival: South by Southwest, Programming: The Fine Art of Film Selection, Marketing Strategies: Integrating Social Media and Technology, The Festival Mission, Sponsorship Strategy, Box Office Technology Solutions, among others. Notable speakers include Richard Linklater (Before Sunrise, Before Sunset), as well as SFFS' very own Steve Jenkins, Sarah Cathers, and Linda Butler. DEADLINE: Register by September 25, 2011 to receive discounted rate. WEBSITE: filmfestivalsummit.com/iffshome.html.

Welcome to SF360

SF360.org represents a nearly six-year experiment in philanthropically funded film journalism, covering films and filmmaking in the Bay Area and beyond. Published by the San Francisco Film Society, the website debuted February 27, 2006 and was created in a unique collaboration between SFFS and Indiewire, with Susan Gerhard as editor. While SF360.org is no longer publishing feature stories, the SF360 Archive remains the most comprehensive collection of articles about the Bay Area film community, with more than 1,000 feature stories and reviews as well as Indie Toolkit's informative columns about the basics of creating a film and delivering it to audiences. Articles by some of the Bay Area’s most notable voices will remain at your fingertips for the foreseeable future.

Welcome to SF360

SF360.org represents a nearly six-year experiment in philanthropically funded film journalism, covering films and filmmaking in the Bay Area and beyond. Published by the San Francisco Film Society, the website debuted February 27, 2006 and was created in a unique collaboration between SFFS and Indiewire, with Susan Gerhard as editor. While SF360.org is no longer publishing feature stories, the SF360 Archive remains the most comprehensive collection of articles about the Bay Area film community, with more than 1,000 feature stories and reviews as well as Indie Toolkit's informative columns about the basics of creating a film and delivering it to audiences. Articles by some of the Bay Area’s most notable voices will remain at your fingertips for the foreseeable future.

Funding: California Story Fund

The California Story Fund, presented by California Council for the Humanities (CCH), supports public humanities programs that bring light to compelling stories from California's diverse communities and provide opportunities for collective reflection and public discussion. ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must have California tax-exempt organizational status or partner with a California tax-exempt organization that will serve as a fiscal sponsor, not have an open grant with CCH, and be in good standing with CCH. Projects should be based on stories gathered from community members, include a public discussion component and at least one humanities expert. Film/video projects should not exceed a total budget of $50,000. AWARDS: Applicants may request up to $10,000, which must be matched by at least an equivalent contribution of non-federal funds or in-kind services. DEADLINE: November 15, 2011. WEBSITE: calhum.org/guidelines/guidelines_csf.htm.

Funding: San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) Cultural Equity Grants

San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) Cultural Equity Grants provide "financial support for the enrichment of San Francisco's multicultural landscape." ELIGIBILITY: Organization Project Grants provide up to $15,000 to support the presentation of high quality works of art and arts activities, including film and video screenings and arts festivals. All art forms will be considered. To be eligible, organizations must have 501(c)(3) status or use a fiscal sponsor. Grant Period: June 15, 2012 - December 31, 2013. AWARDS: Grants awards are up to 15,000 to support the enhancement of arts facilities in the city. DEADLINE: November 10, 2011. WEBSITE: sfartscommission.org/ceg/grants/index.html#opg.

Funding: Catapult Film Fund

Catapult Film Fund provides early development funding to documentary filmmakers who have a compelling story to tell. It supports powerful stories, and moving storytelling, across a broad spectrum of issues and perspectives. ELIGIBILITY: Applicant must be 18 or older. Catapult Film Fund does not award grants for student films. Documentary projects must be 28 minutes or longer. Development funds must specifically be used to complete early writing, shooting and editing once story and characters are in place. Applicants must be independent producers. They must own the copyright of their production, and have artistic, budgetary and editorial control of their project. Applicants must have previous film or television production experience in a principal role as demonstrated by submitting previously completed work sample. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have successfully fund-raised for an independent documentary film, in line with its original budget. AWARDS: Catapult Film Fund development grants range from $5,000 to $20,000. DEADLINE: November 7, 2011. WEBSITE: catapultfilmfund.org/.

Essential SF: Nov. 6

Essential SF shines a light on the Bay Area’s legendary, idiosyncratic and multifaceted contributions to the filmmaking world at SF Film Society | New People Cinema, 7:00 pm. An outgrowth of SF360.org’s Essential SF column, the event this year also pays tribute to the half-decade-plus SF360.org project.

Essential SF: Nov. 6

Essential SF shines a light on the Bay Area’s legendary, idiosyncratic and multifaceted contributions to the filmmaking world at SF Film Society | New People Cinema, 7:00 pm. An outgrowth of SF360.org’s Essential SF column, the event this year also pays tribute to the half-decade-plus SF360.org project.

Essential SF: Nov. 6

Essential SF shines a light on the Bay Area’s legendary, idiosyncratic and multifaceted contributions to the filmmaking world at SF Film Society | New People Cinema, 7:00 pm. An outgrowth of SF360.org’s Essential SF column, the event this year also pays tribute to the half-decade-plus SF360.org project.

Essential SF: Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman

With riveting characters, cascading revelations and momentous breakthroughs, Epstein and Friedman’s work paved the way for contemporary documentary practice.

Essential SF: Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman

With riveting characters, cascading revelations and momentous breakthroughs, Epstein and Friedman’s work paved the way for contemporary documentary practice.

Essential SF: Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman

With riveting characters, cascading revelations and momentous breakthroughs, Epstein and Friedman’s work paved the way for contemporary documentary practice.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Opportunities: Rough Cuts

Rough Cuts is a series of work-in-progress documentary screenings that are produced at a variety of locations throughout San Francisco. The next event (November 14, 2011; 7:30 p.m.) features one rough cut of a feature-length documentary and then a conversation about the film. The post-screening discussion is designed to give the filmmaker a better, more objective sense of what is working and not working with the film, with particular attention paid to improving the film's structure and narrative clarity. ELIGIBILITY: Rough Cuts is currently accepting submissions for the next event. If you are editing a documentary that is over 40 minutes long and are seeking feedback, they encourage you to submit. Principal photography should have been completed, and filmmakers tare encouraged to submit films that are in the later stages of post-production. AWARDS: Invaluable feedback and constructive criticism. DEADLINE: November 1, 2011. Submissions must arrive by 5:00 p.m. WEBSITE: sfroughcuts.com/index.html.

Napa Register: "Napa Goes Big Right out of Film Fest"

"After whetting local appetites through a successful soft launch last year, 91 films are now listed in the 2011 Napa Valley Film Festival program guide. Those films—many of them short—will be played on 12 screens throughout the Napa Valley, including screenings in Calistoga, Yountville, St. Helena and the city of Napa." More at napavalleyregister.com.

Essential SF: Joshua Grannell

Since its first event in 1998, Midnight Mass has become an SF institution, and Peaches Christ, well, she's its peerless warden and cult leader.

Essential SF: Joshua Grannell

Since its first event in 1998, Midnight Mass has become an SF institution, and Peaches Christ, well, she's its peerless warden and cult leader.

Essential SF: Joshua Grannell

Since its first event in 1998, Midnight Mass has become an SF institution, and Peaches Christ, well, she's its peerless warden and cult leader.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Joshua Moore, on Location

Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’

Joshua Moore, on Location

Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’

Joshua Moore, on Location

Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’

NFPF’s ‘Treasures 5’ Excavates 'The West'

The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'

NFPF’s ‘Treasures 5’ Excavates 'The West'

The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'

NFPF’s ‘Treasures 5’ Excavates 'The West'

The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'

'Berlin Alexanderplatz'

PFA plays Rainer Werner Fassbinder's magnum opus 'Berlin Alexanderplatz' in four recently restored 199-minute segments in a rare screening. Although this Friday's screening finds the series already in its second movement, film buffs are advised to enjoy at least a piece of this expansive exploration of Berlin's underworld on film before catching up with the Criterion DVD set. More info bampfa.berkeley.edu

Joshua Moore, on Location

Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’

Joshua Moore, on Location

Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’

Joshua Moore, on Location

Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’

NFPF’s ‘Treasures 5’ Excavates 'The West'

The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'

NFPF’s ‘Treasures 5’ Excavates 'The West'

The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'

NFPF’s ‘Treasures 5’ Excavates 'The West'

The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Signs of the Times

Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.

Signs of the Times

Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.

Signs of the Times

Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.

San Francisco Jewish Film Festival Announces New Executive Director

Press release: The San Francisco Jewish Film Festival announced its new Executive Director: Lexi Leban, who begins working with the festival November 7, 2011. A longtime member of the Bay Area film community, Lexi has worked in all aspects of film, from production to distribution. She’s also worked with numerous film festivals, including the Mill Valley Film Festival, the San Francisco International Film Festival, and the Global Social Change Film Festival in Bali. Lexi is currently Academic Director of the Digital Filmmaking & Video Production Program at the Art Institute of California, where she built the department from its inception. Her most recent feature documentary, Girl Trouble, which follows young girls in San Francisco’s juvenile justice system, aired on PBS’s acclaimed series Independent Lens in January of 2006, and won Best Bay Area Documentary at the San Francisco International Film Festival. More at sfjff.org.

Thompson on Hollywood: "Film Independent Names Lab Participants, Sloan Award Winners"

"After their weekend-long Film Independent Forum," reports Sophia Savage, "FIND announced eleven filmmakers and nine projects for their 11th annual Producers Lab, and named Brent Hoff and Malcom Pullinger the winners of the 5th annual $25,000 Sloan Producers Grant." More at indiewire.com/thompsononhollywood.

Signs of the Times

Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.

Signs of the Times

Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.

Signs of the Times

Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.

NY/SF International Children's Film Festival

The San Francisco Film Society joins the New York International Children’s Film Festival to present a three-day kid-ready fest of animated and non-animated shorts and features from around the world. The brief fest kicks off with a child-friendly opening night party on Friday, and for offers another chance to enjoy Alex Law's sweet Hong Kong Film Days entry, 'Echoes of the Rainbow.' More info sffs.org.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Berlin & Beyond Film Festival

North America's largest showcase of German-language films enters its 16th year, screening more than 20 films from Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Highlights include fest closing film 'If Not Us, Who' and thriller 'Sennentuntschi.' B&B opens Thursday with a screening of 'Almanya – Welcome to Germany' and a party to follow at the historic Castro Theatre. More info berlinbeyond.com.

Mexico Rising: The Films of Nicolás Pereda

YBCA screens five films by 27-year old Mexican auteur Nicolás Pereda in this lauded retrospective, justifiably making its San Francisco debut after playing earlier this year to acclaim in points east. Deadpan comedy 'Juntos' plays Thursday. More info ybca.org.

Wired: "At Popcorn Hackathon, Coders Team With Filmmakers to Supercharge Web Video"

"Filmmakers and coders hunkered down for two days of creative collaboration here during a first-of-its-kind hackathon that explored the future of web video — specifically Popcorn.js, Mozilla’s HTML5 media toolkit designed to amp up interactivity" reports Angela Watercutter. More at wired.com.

San Francisco Chronicle: 'Online publication sf360.org closing down"

"The launch of SF360.org, an online publication devoted to covering the entire Bay Area film community, was one of San Francisco Film Society Executive Director Graham Leggat's first initiatives when he took over the organization," writes Pam Grady. "...in November, a victim of financial realities and organizational changes in the wake of Leggat's recent death, SF360.org will cease publication." More at SFGate.

SF Film Society Names Bingham Ray Executive Director

Press release: San Francisco Film Society announced the appointment of Bingham Ray as its executive director, effective November 7, 2011. Ray comes to the San Francisco Film Society from New York City, where he recently served as the first run programming consultant to the Film Society of Lincoln Center, executive consultant to the digital distribution company SnagFilms and adjunct professor at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. More at sffs.org.

Essential SF: Irving Saraf and Allie Light

Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.

Essential SF: Irving Saraf and Allie Light

Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.

Essential SF: Irving Saraf and Allie Light

Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.

Essential SF: Irving Saraf and Allie Light

Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.

Clean White Lines Demos DIY Ethos

Can three film school grads from San Francisco break out without the help of Hollywood or New York connections?

Clean White Lines Demos DIY Ethos

Can three film school grads from San Francisco break out without the help of Hollywood or New York connections?

Clean White Lines Demos DIY Ethos

Can three film school grads from San Francisco break out without the help of Hollywood or New York connections?

'The Sleeping Beauty'

SFFS gives Catherine Breillat's SFIFF-screened fantasy 'The Sleeping Beauty' a short run at Film Society | New People Cinema starting Monday. More info sffs.org.

Where Are their Stories?

The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.

Where Are their Stories?

The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.

Where Are their Stories?

The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.

Opportunities: Cinequest Screenwriting Competition

Cinequest Screenwriting Competition, held in conjunction with the Cinequest Film Festival (February 28-March 11, 2012), is accepting submissions. ELIGIBILITY: The competition is open to screenplays of all genres and lengths up to 140 pages that have not been optioned, purchased, produced, or put into production. Scripts should be in English, properly formatted, and submitted in PDF format. Scripts written as adaptations of other works must have secured rights before being submitted. Entry fee $45-65. AWARDS: Finalists receive non-cash prizes, including exposure to literary agents, film studios, and producers. Top prize is $5,000. DEADLINE: September 26, 2011 (early); October 17, 2011 (late). WEBSITE: cinequest.org/sp_agent.php.

Opportunities: Center for Asian American Media Fellowship Program

Furthering CAAM's work to nurture Asian American media professionals and advance the field of Asian American media, the second annual CAAM Fellowship Program will connect young, talented individuals with leading professionals in the field. ELIGIBILITY: Participating fellows will have access to the leading Asian American talent in film, television and digital media. Each fellowship will be individually tailored to best fit the needs of the fellows and advisers. Fellowships will range from fully integrated collaborations to regular feedback on current projects to an ongoing dialogue about professional development. AWARDS: The CAAM Fellowship Program Retreat will allow the mentor-mentee pairs to spend two full days together in a quiet and peaceful environment where they can focus on the mentees' career, whether it is a script being developed or an acting career that needs some guidance. DEADLINE: October 17, 2011. WEBSITE: caamedia.org/filmmaker-resources/fellowship/caam-fellowship-program-2011/.

Wall Street Journal: "George Lucas Self-Finances Action Movie About Tuskegee Airmen"

"Star Wars creator George Lucas is betting millions of his own dollars that moviegoers will be drawn to an action movie about African-American fighter pilots in World War II," reports Christopher John Farley. "Mr. Lucas has self-financed a new film entitled Red Tails inspired by the true story of the first organized group of African-American fighter pilots in the U.S. armed forces." More at wsj.com.

Where Are their Stories?

The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.

Where Are their Stories?

The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.

Where Are their Stories?

The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.

Taiwan Film Days

SFFS's Taiwan Film Days opens Friday with director Wang Chi-tsai's well modulated dark comedy 'Formosa Mambo' and an accompanying post-screening party at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. The now annual showcase closes Sunday evening with Chienn Hsiang's riveting 'Ranger.' More info at sffs.org.

Taiwan Film Days

SFFS's Taiwan Film Days opens Friday with director Wang Chi-tsai's well modulated dark comedy 'Formosa Mambo' and an accompanying post-screening party at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. The now annual showcase closes Sunday evening with Chienn Hsiang's riveting 'Ranger.' More info at sffs.org.

DocFest 2011

SF Indiefest offshoot DocFest kicks off its 10th edition this Friday with a screening of 'Dirty Pictures,' a film about underground ecstasy legend Dr. Alexander Shulgin. Featuring the wildest and wooliest independent docs emerging this year, the fest also boast a number of well-loved parties and one ’80s New Wave sing-along. More info at sfindie.virb.com.

DocFest 2011

SF Indiefest offshoot DocFest kicks off its 10th edition this Friday with a screening of 'Dirty Pictures,' a film about underground ecstasy legend Dr. Alexander Shulgin. Featuring the wildest and wooliest independent docs emerging this year, the fest also boast a number of well-loved parties and one ’80s New Wave sing-along. More info at sfindie.virb.com.

Unbound by Genre, Taiwan's Films Travel Unique Paths

Expectations defied in Taiwan Film Days. It could be argued that Taiwanese cinema, best known through the work of three auteurs, Edward Yang, Hou Hsiao-hsien and Tsai Ming-liang, is not tied to audience-generating genres. It’s certainly been able to travel more diverse cinematic avenues than some of its neighbors. San Francisco Film Society's Taiwan Film Days running from October 14–16, however, offers evidence for any number of arguments you’d like to make about Asian cinema and Taiwan in particular. On the docket this year are ...

Arab Film Festival

The Arab Film Festival, now entering its 15th year, screens more than 40 films in two weeks, beginning Thursday at SF's Castro Theatre and making stops in Berkeley and San Jose before closing in Los Angeles on the 23rd. AFF Exec Director Michel Shehadeh spoke with SF360 earlier this week. More info and ticketing at arabfilmfestival.org.

Arab Film Festival

The Arab Film Festival, now entering its 15th year, screens more than 40 films in two weeks, beginning Thursday at SF's Castro Theatre and making stops in Berkeley and San Jose before closing in Los Angeles on the 23rd. AFF Exec Director Michel Shehadeh spoke with SF360 earlier this week. More info and ticketing at arabfilmfestival.org.

Unbound by Genre, Taiwan's Films Travel Unique Paths

Expectations defied in Taiwan Film Days. It could be argued that Taiwanese cinema, best known through the work of three auteurs, Edward Yang, Hou Hsiao-hsien and Tsai Ming-liang, is not tied to audience-generating genres. It’s certainly been able to travel more diverse cinematic avenues than some of its neighbors. San Francisco Film Society's Taiwan Film Days running from October 14–16, however, offers evidence for any number of arguments you’d like to make about Asian cinema and Taiwan in particular. On the docket this year are ...

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Paul Sharits: An Open Cinema

PFA finishes a short program of experimental films by teacher, multi-genre artist and Fluxus collaborator Paul Sharits this Thursday with a screening of his later work on Thursday. The Berkeley institution also screens a selection of Sharits' midcareer work this Wednesday. More info bampfa.edu.

Paul Sharits: An Open Cinema

PFA finishes a short program of experimental films by teacher, multi-genre artist and Fluxus collaborator Paul Sharits this Thursday with a screening of his later work on Thursday. The Berkeley institution also screens a selection of Sharits' midcareer work this Wednesday. More info bampfa.edu.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

GOT Low Budgets, High Production Values?

San Rafael’s Indigo Films makes fascinating crime fare for cable on a DIY-sized budget.

GOT Low Budgets, High Production Values?

San Rafael’s Indigo Films makes fascinating crime fare for cable on a DIY-sized budget.

GOT Low Budgets, High Production Values?

San Rafael’s Indigo Films makes fascinating crime fare for cable on a DIY-sized budget.

Arab Spring Arrives in a Festival-Packed Fall

Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.

Arab Spring Arrives in a Festival-Packed Fall

Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.

Arab Spring Arrives in a Festival-Packed Fall

Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.

Funding: TFI Documentary Fund

The TFI Documentary Fund provides grants and guidance to exceptional filmmakers developing engaging feature-length documentaries which emphasize character and that allow audiences to consider history, culture and society through the experiences of extraordinary individuals. ELIGIBILITY: Submissions must be non-fiction motion pictures with an intended length of at least 70 minutes and should creatively document unique character(s); submissions can be in the advanced stages of development, production or post-production and must not have aired on any form. Foreign language documentaries are eligible, but must be subtitled and suitable for an American audience. Applicants must be over 18-years old. $25 entry fee. AWARDS: Grants of at least $10,000 will be awarded in 2012. DEADLINE: October 10, 2011. WEBSITE: tribecafilminstitute.org/tfi_documentary/.

Funding: TFI Latin America Media Arts Fund

The TFI Latin America Media Arts Fund supports innovative film and video artists who are living or working in Mexico, Central and South America and working independently in their efforts to reach a larger audience. ELIGIBILITY: Submissions must be animation, documentary and/or hybrid feature-length films with an intended length of at least 70 minutes. Submissions must be in production or post-production and must not have aired on any form of television, been screened publicly or have been distributed in theaters or via the internet. Projects may be in any language or dialect. Applicants must be over 18 years old. Student films and stand-alone short films are not eligible for submission. $25 entry fee. AWARDS: Last year, the Fund administered $10,000 grants to four selected films. In addition to funding, each grantee will receive a U.S. based advisor and guidance from the Tribeca Film Institute. DEADLINE: October 10, 2011. WEBSITE: tribecafilminstitute.org/filmmakers/latin_fund/.

Variety: "Fritz Manes Dies at 79"

"Fritz Manes, who had a long association with Clint Eastwood, producing, exec producing or associate producing a dozen of the films Eastwood directed between 1977 and 1986," reports Variety, "died of lung and brain cancer on Sept. 27 in Sherman Oaks, Calif." More at variety.com.

Arab Spring Arrives in a Festival-Packed Fall

Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.

Arab Spring Arrives in a Festival-Packed Fall

Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.

Arab Spring Arrives in a Festival-Packed Fall

Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.

An Evening with Susan Orlean & Rin Tin Tin

Author and journalist Susan Orlean ('The Orchid Thief') appears in person at SF Film Society Cinema | New People to celebrate the release of her new book on American cinema's greatest animal actor, Rin Tin Tin. One of the canine's classics, 'Clash of the Wolves,' will screen following an illustrated introduction by Orlean. Q&A to follow. More info and tickets at sffs.org.

An Evening with Susan Orlean & Rin Tin Tin

Author and journalist Susan Orlean ('The Orchid Thief') appears in person at SF Film Society Cinema | New People to celebrate the release of her new book on American cinema's greatest animal actor, Rin Tin Tin. One of the canine's classics, 'Clash of the Wolves,' will screen following an illustrated introduction by Orlean. Q&A to follow. More info and tickets at sffs.org.

‘New Environmentalists’ Salutes Gutsy Grassroots Guerillas

Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.

‘New Environmentalists’ Salutes Gutsy Grassroots Guerillas

Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.

‘New Environmentalists’ Salutes Gutsy Grassroots Guerillas

Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.

'Killer of Sheep'

Charles Burnett's criminally underseen meditation on urban life in future race flashpoint Watts, CA, 'Killer of Sheep,' screens this Friday as part of Pacific Film Archive's The Outsiders: New Hollywood Cinema in the Seventies. More info at bampfa.edu.

'Killer of Sheep'

Charles Burnett's criminally underseen meditation on urban life in future race flashpoint Watts, CA, 'Killer of Sheep,' screens this Friday as part of Pacific Film Archive's The Outsiders: New Hollywood Cinema in the Seventies. More info at bampfa.edu.

'American Teacher'

The Matt Damon-narrated SFIFF hit 'American Teacher' follows the lives of a few edu-system stars, one based in San Francisco, forced by low wages and crumbling job security to reconsider their chosen profession. Filmmaker Vanessa Roth and producers Dave Eggers and Nînive Calegari will be present for Q&A following Friday's screening; special reception Tuesday, October 11. More info at roxie.com.

'American Teacher'

The Matt Damon-narrated SFIFF hit 'American Teacher' follows the lives of a few edu-system stars, one based in San Francisco, forced by low wages and crumbling job security to reconsider their chosen profession. Filmmaker Vanessa Roth and producers Dave Eggers and Nînive Calegari will be present for Q&A following Friday's screening; special reception Tuesday, October 11. More info at roxie.com.

‘New Environmentalists’ Salutes Gutsy Grassroots Guerillas

Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.

‘New Environmentalists’ Salutes Gutsy Grassroots Guerillas

Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.

‘New Environmentalists’ Salutes Gutsy Grassroots Guerillas

Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.

Mill Valley Brings Oscar Contenders Close to Home

Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.

Mill Valley Brings Oscar Contenders Close to Home

Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.

Mill Valley Brings Oscar Contenders Close to Home

Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.

'Naan Kadavul (I Am God)'

Fringe Tamil director Bala's mad, mondo tale of a pot-smoking, vengeance-driven holy man plays this week at YBCA. 'Naan Kadavul' screens as part of YBCA mini-program 'Cruel Cinema: New Directions in Tamil Film,' also featuring actor Sasikumar's ambitious first film, 'Subramaniapuram.' More info ybca.org.

'Naan Kadavul (I Am God)'

Fringe Tamil director Bala's mad, mondo tale of a pot-smoking, vengeance-driven holy man plays this week at YBCA. 'Naan Kadavul' screens as part of YBCA mini-program 'Cruel Cinema: New Directions in Tamil Film,' also featuring actor Sasikumar's ambitious first film, 'Subramaniapuram.' More info ybca.org.

Mill Valley Film Festival

The 34th Mill Valley Film Festival continues at a number of locations, with a number of notable guests, including directors Gaston Kaboré and Luc Besson. See Dennis Harvey's extended preview on SF360 for the full story. More info and film schedule at mvff.com.

Mill Valley Film Festival

The 34th Mill Valley Film Festival continues at a number of locations, with a number of notable guests, including directors Gaston Kaboré and Luc Besson. See Dennis Harvey's extended preview on SF360 for the full story. More info and film schedule at mvff.com.

Mill Valley Brings Oscar Contenders Close to Home

Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.

Mill Valley Brings Oscar Contenders Close to Home

Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.

Mill Valley Brings Oscar Contenders Close to Home

Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.

Graham Leggat and the Art of Engagement

In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'

Graham Leggat and the Art of Engagement

In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'

Graham Leggat and the Art of Engagement

In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'

Graham Leggat and the Art of Engagement

In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'

Graham Leggat and the Art of Engagement

In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'

Graham Leggat and the Art of Engagement

In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'

Goldmacher IDs Perps Behind Financial Crisis

An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.

Goldmacher IDs Perps Behind Financial Crisis

An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.

Goldmacher IDs Perps Behind Financial Crisis

An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.

'Passione'

John Turturro 's 'Passione' illuminates the history of Neapolitan music for a second week at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. Compared favorably to Wim Wenders' beloved 'Buena Vista Social Club,' the film is the actor-director's first foray into the documentary form. More info at sffs.org.

'Passione'

John Turturro 's 'Passione' illuminates the history of Neapolitan music for a second week at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. Compared favorably to Wim Wenders' beloved 'Buena Vista Social Club,' the film is the actor-director's first foray into the documentary form. More info at sffs.org.

'Passione'

John Turturro 's 'Passione' illuminates the history of Neapolitan music for a second week at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. Compared favorably to Wim Wenders' beloved 'Buena Vista Social Club,' the film is the actor-director's first foray into the documentary form. More info at sffs.org.

Goldmacher IDs Perps Behind Financial Crisis

An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.

Goldmacher IDs Perps Behind Financial Crisis

An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.

Goldmacher IDs Perps Behind Financial Crisis

An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.

Film in the Fog: 'Dark Passage'

San Francisco Film Society and the Presidio Trust present the 10th anniversary edition of Film in the Fog, with pre-show entertainments (’50s-era newsreel, classic cartoon, music) to precede an outdoor screening of San Francisco-shot Humphrey Bogart noir treasure 'Dark Passage.' Film program begins at 7:15 p.m. at the Presidio Main Post Theater; more info at sffs.org.

Film in the Fog: 'Dark Passage'

San Francisco Film Society and the Presidio Trust present the 10th anniversary edition of Film in the Fog, with pre-show entertainments (’50s-era newsreel, classic cartoon, music) to precede an outdoor screening of San Francisco-shot Humphrey Bogart noir treasure 'Dark Passage.' Film program begins at 7:15 p.m. at the Presidio Main Post Theater; more info at sffs.org.

Just Out: " 'We Were Here' Opens Portland Lesbian & Gay Film Fest"

"The 15th annual Portland Lesbian and Gay Film Fest opens tonight," reports Amanda Schurr, "with a screening of David Weissman’s latest documentary, We Were Here." More at justout.com.

Turturro Makes a Case for 'Passione'

John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.

Turturro Makes a Case for 'Passione'

John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.

Turturro Makes a Case for 'Passione'

John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.

'Lola'

YBCA screens Brillante Mendoza's 'Lola,' a drama tracking the consequences of a crime on two grandmothers, one related to the victim, another the suspect. Infrequently seen on western screens, Mendoza is regarded in his native Philippines as a cinematic master and the leading light of Kapampangan film. More info at ybca.org.

'Lola'

YBCA screens Brillante Mendoza's 'Lola,' a drama tracking the consequences of a crime on two grandmothers, one related to the victim, another the suspect. Infrequently seen on western screens, Mendoza is regarded in his native Philippines as a cinematic master and the leading light of Kapampangan film. More info at ybca.org.

'The Hungry Wolves'

PFA series Anatolian Outlaw: Yilmaz Güney, showcasing the work of the Turkish actor-director cum revolutionary dubbed the "Ugly King" for his unique combination of charisma and rough-hewn looks, continues with the realist western riff 'The Hungry Wolves.' Series runs through October 9. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

'The Hungry Wolves'

PFA series Anatolian Outlaw: Yilmaz Güney, showcasing the work of the Turkish actor-director cum revolutionary dubbed the "Ugly King" for his unique combination of charisma and rough-hewn looks, continues with the realist western riff 'The Hungry Wolves.' Series runs through October 9. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

J Weekly: "Executive Director Stepping Down But Not Away From S.F. Jewish Film Fest"

"After an eight-year tenure as the festival’s director," reports Dan Pine, "[Peter Stein] is stepping down Oct. 3 — and once again becoming a regular film festival fan." More at jweekly.com.

Slade Channels Broughton’s ‘Big Joy’

Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.

Slade Channels Broughton’s ‘Big Joy’

Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.

Slade Channels Broughton’s ‘Big Joy’

Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.

Slade Channels Broughton’s ‘Big Joy’

Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.

Slade Channels Broughton’s ‘Big Joy’

Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.

Slade Channels Broughton’s ‘Big Joy’

Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.

On Chronicling Criminals

Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.

On Chronicling Criminals

Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.

On Chronicling Criminals

Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.

SFFS Film Arts Forum

SFFS's bi-monthly forum and industry show-and-tell makes its first appearance at Film Society Cinema this Tuesday. Panel discussion will be moderated by music rights exec Brooke Wentz and feature Kim Aubry of Zoetrope Aubry productions alongside Academy Award-winning soundmen Michael Semanick and Richard Beggs. More info at sffs.org.

SFFS Film Arts Forum

SFFS's bi-monthly forum and industry show-and-tell makes its first appearance at Film Society Cinema this Tuesday. Panel discussion will be moderated by music rights exec Brooke Wentz and feature Kim Aubry of Zoetrope Aubry productions alongside Academy Award-winning soundmen Michael Semanick and Richard Beggs. More info at sffs.org.

On Chronicling Criminals

Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.

On Chronicling Criminals

Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.

On Chronicling Criminals

Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.

Broadly Comedic ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ a Harmless Indulgence

Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.

Broadly Comedic ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ a Harmless Indulgence

Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.

Broadly Comedic ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ a Harmless Indulgence

Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.

Broadly Comedic ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ a Harmless Indulgence

Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.

Broadly Comedic ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ a Harmless Indulgence

Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.

Broadly Comedic ‘My Afternoons with Margueritte’ a Harmless Indulgence

Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.

Guy Maddin: Ann Savage and the Osmonds

Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.

Guy Maddin: Ann Savage and the Osmonds

Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.

Hong Kong Cinema

SF Film Society | New People Cinema screens new films by Johnnie To, Bennie Chan, Alex Law and others in a new program celebrating one of cinema's most prolific cities. The Film Society launches the festival's inaugural year with a party at Superfrog gallery on Friday. More info sffs.org.

Hong Kong Cinema

SF Film Society | New People Cinema screens new films by Johnnie To, Bennie Chan, Alex Law and others in a new program celebrating one of cinema's most prolific cities. The Film Society launches the festival's inaugural year with a party at Superfrog gallery on Friday. More info sffs.org.

Guy Maddin: Ann Savage and the Osmonds

Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.

Guy Maddin: Ann Savage and the Osmonds

Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

San Francisco Irish Film Festival

Founded in 2003, The San Francisco Irish Film Festival opens this Thursday at the Roxie. Highlights include Colm Meany's turn in the charming 'Parked,' a closing night screening of 'Once' follow-up 'Swell Season,' and revival screenings of 'In the Name of The Father' and 2008 Cannes Golden Camera winner 'Hunger.' More info sfirishfilm.com.

San Francisco Irish Film Festival

Founded in 2003, The San Francisco Irish Film Festival opens this Thursday at the Roxie. Highlights include Colm Meany's turn in the charming 'Parked,' a closing night screening of 'Once' follow-up 'Swell Season,' and revival screenings of 'In the Name of The Father' and 2008 Cannes Golden Camera winner 'Hunger.' More info sfirishfilm.com.

SF Film Society | New People Cinema Opening

Celebrating the grand opening of the SF Film Society | New People Cinema, a state-of-the-art venue for art, independent and world cinema, San Francisco Film Society offers an open house reception and ribbon cutting with food, drink, musical performances and screenings in the theater itself throughout the night. More info at sffs.org.

IXFF Indie Erotic Film Festival

Peaches Christ and Dr. Carol Queen host the Sixth Annual Good Vibrations Indie Erotic Film Festival Short Film Competition this Thursday, boasting a Barbary Coast-themed party featuring food, drinks and an array of appropriately sexed-up performers and a curated screening of sexy short films from this year. Each event costs $10, more info castrotheatre.com.

IXFF Indie Erotic Film Festival

Peaches Christ and Dr. Carol Queen host the Sixth Annual Good Vibrations Indie Erotic Film Festival Short Film Competition this Thursday, boasting a Barbary Coast-themed party featuring food, drinks and an array of appropriately sexed-up performers and a curated screening of sexy short films from this year. Each event costs $10, more info castrotheatre.com.

Living in the World: Films by Helga Fanderl

SFMOMA presents an hour-long program of contemporary artist Helga Fanderl's formalist silent Super 8mm shorts this Thursday. More info at sfmoma.org.

Living in the World: Films by Helga Fanderl

SFMOMA presents an hour-long program of contemporary artist Helga Fanderl's formalist silent Super 8mm shorts this Thursday. More info at sfmoma.org.

Below the Line: "SPY Delivers Visual Effects, DI and Stereo Conversion for Coppola's 'Twixt' "

"San Francisco-based visual effects and post house SPY, a FotoKem company, recently contributed hundreds of visual effects shots, the digital intermediate and 3D conversion services for Francis Ford Coppola’s latest feature film, Twixt," reports Below the Line. More at btlnews.com.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

Weimberg, Ryan Pick Berkeley ‘Brain’

Two Berkeley filmmakers tap vitality of 84-year-old neuroscientist Dr. Marian Diamond.

Weimberg, Ryan Pick Berkeley ‘Brain’

Two Berkeley filmmakers tap vitality of 84-year-old neuroscientist Dr. Marian Diamond.

Weimberg, Ryan Pick Berkeley ‘Brain’

Two Berkeley filmmakers tap vitality of 84-year-old neuroscientist Dr. Marian Diamond.

'A Sixth Part of the World'

Dziga Vertov completed the epic documentary 'A Sixth Part of the World' after his ejection from the Cold War-era Soviet documentary film unit Sovkino. The breathtaking and broad-reaching doc, praised by revered experimentalist Chris Marker, screens Wednesday as part of PFA's annual avant-garde film program Alternative Visions. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

'A Sixth Part of the World'

Dziga Vertov completed the epic documentary 'A Sixth Part of the World' after his ejection from the Cold War-era Soviet documentary film unit Sovkino. The breathtaking and broad-reaching doc, praised by revered experimentalist Chris Marker, screens Wednesday as part of PFA's annual avant-garde film program Alternative Visions. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

SFFS Announces Winners of Documentary Film Fund Awards

Press release: The San Francisco Film Society today announced the three winners of the inaugural SFFS Documentary Film Fund grants. The Fund was created to support the postproduction of singular feature-length nonfiction film work that is distinguished by compelling stories, intriguing characters and an innovative visual approach. Each year from 2011 to 2013, a total of $100,000 will be disbursed to further new work by documentary filmmakers nationwide. Winners are: Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson, An American Promise, $25,000; Priya Desai and Ann Kim, Match +, $25,000; Zachary Heinzerling, Cutie & the Boxe, $50,000. For more information go to: sffs.org/filmmaker-services.

SF Chronicle: "Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive Plan"

"The proposal for the 82,000-square-foot facility made public Wednesday evening comes 15 months after the university-owned institution restarted the effort to build itself a new home on the downtown edge of the UC Berkeley campus at Center and Oxford streets," reports John King. Read more at sfgate.com.

Identifying Your Documentary’s Signature Style

Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.

Identifying Your Documentary’s Signature Style

Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.

Identifying Your Documentary’s Signature Style

Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.

Identifying Your Documentary’s Signature Style

Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.

Identifying Your Documentary’s Signature Style

Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.

Identifying Your Documentary’s Signature Style

Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.

Dark Thoughts Fill TIFF’s Lightbox

Sex-filled fictions dominate Toronto International Film Festival; eclectic docs inspire action.

Dark Thoughts Fill TIFF’s Lightbox

Sex-filled fictions dominate Toronto International Film Festival; eclectic docs inspire action.

Dark Thoughts Fill TIFF’s Lightbox

Sex-filled fictions dominate Toronto International Film Festival; eclectic docs inspire action.

Donizetti's 'Elixir of Love,' the Movie

The San Francisco Opera & CFI Education co-present a one-hour kid-friendly version of the famous opera at the Smith Rafael Film Center, along with educational take-home materials and an introduction by SF Opera staff. Free this Saturday, more info cafilm.org.

Tiffany Shlain Connects the Dots

With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.

Tiffany Shlain Connects the Dots

With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.

Tiffany Shlain Connects the Dots

With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.

Tiffany Shlain Connects the Dots

With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.

'Aurora'

SFIFF standout 'Aurora' screens at SF Film Society | New People Cinema starting this Friday. Following the lead set by his highly praised 2005 film, 'The Death of Mr. Lazarescu,' Cristi Puiu's latest is the blackest of comedies, exposing the anatomy of a crime to the smallest, most innocent detail. More info sffs.org.

‘Aurora’ Startles, Subtly

Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...

‘Aurora’ Startles, Subtly

Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...

'Taxi Driver' & 'Blast of Silence'

SF's largest single screen shows a new restoration print of Martin Scorsese's grime classic, 'Taxi Driver.' Playing on the same double-bill is underseen noir 'Blast of Silence', an influence on filmmakers from Scorsese to Lars von Trier. More info at castrotheatre.com.

Trashed: Two Films About Garbage

As a complement to this year's Bay Area Now program, YBCA screens two films about waste and the way it impacts our lives. 'Scrappers,' showing Thursday, tells the story of two scavengers eking out a living salvaging trash from Chicago's dumpsters and 'Waste Land,' playing Sunday, follows artist Vik Muniz to Brazil where he connects with pickers at the world's largest garbage dump. More info: ybca.org.

‘Aurora’ Startles, Subtly

Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...

‘Aurora’ Startles, Subtly

Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...

Mill Valley Announces Titles in 34th

North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.

Mill Valley Announces Titles in 34th

North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.

Mill Valley Announces Titles in 34th

North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.

Mill Valley Announces Titles in 34th

North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.

Mill Valley Announces Titles in 34th

North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.

Mill Valley Announces Titles in 34th

North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

Cine+Mas San Francisco Latino Film Festival 2011

The Cine+Mas 2011 San Francisco Latino Film Festival kicks off this Wednesday with a screening of 'Being: Cafe´ Tacvba' at Landmark's Embarcadero Center Cinema and screens through next week at venues throughout the Bay Area. The festival offers a number of new works by Latino directors based locally and internationally. More info and kickoff RSVP at sflatinofilmfestival.com.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

He-Men Command Belief in MMA Film 'Warrior'

Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

'Puzzle'

Week two of San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema features Argentinian Natalia Smirnoff’s first feature, a delicate character portrait in which a middle-aged housewife, cherished by her husband and two sons but nevertheless taken for granted, discovers an aptitude for jigsaw puzzles. More at sffs.org.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

Kuchar, Belson Bid Adieu

San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...

Kuchar, Belson Bid Adieu

San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...

Kuchar, Belson Bid Adieu

San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...

Kuchar, Belson Bid Adieu

San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...

Radical Light: ‘Movie Factory’

As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'

Radical Light: ‘Movie Factory’

As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'

Radical Light: ‘Movie Factory’

As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'

Radical Light: ‘Movie Factory’

As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'

Radical Light: ‘Movie Factory’

As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'

Radical Light: ‘Movie Factory’

As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'

Stigma, Satisfaction Drive Indian 'Match' Game

Priya Giri Desai documents matchmaking efforts for HIV-positives in India.

Stigma, Satisfaction Drive Indian 'Match' Game

Priya Giri Desai documents matchmaking efforts for HIV-positives in India.

Stigma, Satisfaction Drive Indian 'Match' Game

Priya Giri Desai documents matchmaking efforts for HIV-positives in India.

Telluride’s 38th Festival Underway in Colorado

Berkeley-programmed Festival is a favorite for cinephiles; features Caetano Veloso as 2011 Guest Director.

Telluride’s 38th Festival Underway in Colorado

Berkeley-programmed Festival is a favorite for cinephiles; features Caetano Veloso as 2011 Guest Director.

Telluride’s 38th Festival Underway in Colorado

Berkeley-programmed Festival is a favorite for cinephiles; features Caetano Veloso as 2011 Guest Director.

'Film Socialisme'

San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema sets sail with Jean-Luc Godard's 2010 provocation, 'Film Socialisme.' As Robert Avila writes in SF360.org later this week, the "playful, somber meditation on where history has brought us is brimming with ideas and aesthetic pleasures." Screenings begin September 2. More info on the new SFFS venue at Post Street (between Webster and Buchanan) in sffs.org.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Sjogren Finds ‘Redemption’ in Petaluma

Britta Sjogren gets a second chance to make a film about how people rebound from trauma.

Sjogren Finds ‘Redemption’ in Petaluma

Britta Sjogren gets a second chance to make a film about how people rebound from trauma.

Sjogren Finds ‘Redemption’ in Petaluma

Britta Sjogren gets a second chance to make a film about how people rebound from trauma.

Cary Grant: Definitive Star

Castro Theatre sets a whole week aside to celebrate the slick charms of the screen legend. Beginning on Wednesday, the institution will screen 14 of the star's films, from suspenseful actioneers 'North By Northwest' and 'Suspicion' to slap-happy comedies 'His Girl Friday' and 'I Was a Male War Bride'. The centerpiece of the retro is a new print of the beloved 'Bringing Up Baby,' also starring Katherine Hepburn. More info at castrotheatre.com.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.

Funding: The Roy W. Dean LA August Grant

The Roy W. Dean Film and Writing Grants fund shorts, documentaries and low budget independent features. ELIGIBILITY: New film and video projects (including works-in-progress) that are unique and benefit the society. Student filmmakers, independent producers or independent production companies are all welcome. AWARDS: Winner gets a variety of awards including scholarships and cash prizes for different production fields. DEADLINE: August 30, 2011. WEBSITE: fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-lavideo.shtml.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.

Graham Leggat, 1960-2011

Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.

Graham Leggat, 1960-2011

Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.

Graham Leggat, 1960-2011

Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.

Graham Leggat, 1960-2011

Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.

Graham Leggat, 1960-2011

Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.

Graham Leggat, 1960-2011

Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.

PFA Animates with Bay Area Works

SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.

PFA Animates with Bay Area Works

SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.

PFA Animates with Bay Area Works

SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.

PFA Animates with Bay Area Works

SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.

PFA Animates with Bay Area Works

SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.

PFA Animates with Bay Area Works

SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.

Essential SF: Lynn Hershman Leeson

Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.

Essential SF: Lynn Hershman Leeson

Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.

Essential SF: Lynn Hershman Leeson

Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.

Essential SF: Lynn Hershman Leeson

Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.

Essential SF: Lynn Hershman Leeson

Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.

Essential SF: Lynn Hershman Leeson

Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.

Susannah Greason Robbins on Growing the City’s Film Industry

The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.

Susannah Greason Robbins on Growing the City’s Film Industry

The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.

Susannah Greason Robbins on Growing the City’s Film Industry

The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.

Susannah Greason Robbins on Growing the City’s Film Industry

The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.

Susannah Greason Robbins on Growing the City’s Film Industry

The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.

Susannah Greason Robbins on Growing the City’s Film Industry

The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.

'Visionary Design: The Cinema of Charles and Ray Eames'

Stock footage library and offbeat independent showcase Oddball Films screens 'An Eames Celebration,' Les Blank's doc on modern design icons the Eameses alongside a selection of the couple's own short films. RSVP to info@oddballfilm for entry at 275 Capp St., more at oddballfilm.com.

San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gates

The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.

San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gates

The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.

San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gates

The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.

San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gates

The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.

San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gates

The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.

San Francisco, Open Your Golden Gates

The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.

'Vigilante, Vigilante' Opens Can of Worms

Filmmakers find themselves outside the 'buffer' zone as film about graffiti-abaters hits local screens, and streets. Editor's note: Vigilante, Vigilante: The Battle for Expression, a Bay Area-made film on graffiti "abatement," opened with a clamor last weekend at the Roxie, as San Francisco's Department of Public Works made an issue of cleaning up the film's street-art advertising campaign. The filmmakers responded that they've asked that their materials not be posted illegally, but that hasn't stopped DPW requesting them to cease and desist attracting audiences via wheatpaste. What follows is sf360.org's interview...

'Vigilante, Vigilante' Opens Can of Worms

Filmmakers find themselves outside the 'buffer' zone as film about graffiti-abaters hits local screens, and streets. Editor's note: Vigilante, Vigilante: The Battle for Expression, a Bay Area-made film on graffiti "abatement," opened with a clamor last weekend at the Roxie, as San Francisco's Department of Public Works made an issue of cleaning up the film's street-art advertising campaign. The filmmakers responded that they've asked that their materials not be posted illegally, but that hasn't stopped DPW requesting them to cease and desist attracting audiences via wheatpaste. What follows is sf360.org's interview...

'The Makioka Sisters'

Pacific Film Archive screens 'The Makioka Sisters,' Kon Ichikawa's gorgeous and understated women's drama based on Tanizaki's novel of the same name. Lush color sequences of beautiful kimonos and cherry blossoms falling make this subtle masterpiece a joy to view on the large screen. New 35mm print shows Wednesday and Friday only. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

'Ugetsu' & 'Kwaidon'

Viz Cinema wraps up its Classic Summer Weekends series in style with two Japanese cinematic landmarks. Equally unforgettable and each ravishingly gorgeous, masterworks Kenji Mizoguchi's 'Ugetsu' and Masaski Kobayashi's 'Kwaidan' screen Saturday and Sunday respectively. More info at newpeopleworld.com.

'The African Queen'

Canonized director John Huston's 'The African Queen,' now mostly remembered for its tumultuous production history, was also the director's biggest grossing film, securing Humphrey Bogart his first Oscar for acting. The Alameda Theatre screens this battle-of-the-sexes classic on film Wednesday and Thursday only. More info at alamedatheatres.com.

‘Dawn’ Salutes Lost Girls, Sainted Sister

A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.

‘Dawn’ Salutes Lost Girls, Sainted Sister

A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.

‘Dawn’ Salutes Lost Girls, Sainted Sister

A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.

‘Dawn’ Salutes Lost Girls, Sainted Sister

A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.

‘Dawn’ Salutes Lost Girls, Sainted Sister

A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.

‘Dawn’ Salutes Lost Girls, Sainted Sister

A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.

‘The Arbor’s’ ‘Verbatim Theatre’ Approach Strikes Chord

Clio Barnard's ‘The Arbor’ takes a fascinating and unconventional look at Andrea Dunbar's brief, brilliant career.

‘The Arbor’s’ ‘Verbatim Theatre’ Approach Strikes Chord

Clio Barnard's ‘The Arbor’ takes a fascinating and unconventional look at Andrea Dunbar's brief, brilliant career.

‘The Arbor’s’ ‘Verbatim Theatre’ Approach Strikes Chord

Clio Barnard's ‘The Arbor’ takes a fascinating and unconventional look at Andrea Dunbar's brief, brilliant career.

From Britain with Love

UK Film Council, Emerging Pictures and the Mostly British Film Festival present a selection of new British films curated by Film Society of Lincoln Center. 'From Britain with Love' continues at Smith Rafael Film Center selected dates through September 18. More info at cafilm.org.

Akira Kurosawa's 'Ikiru' & 'I Live In Fear'

Viz Cinema, slated to begin programming as Film Society Cinema next month, continues its Classic Summer Weekends series with 35mm screenings of Akira Kurosawa's postwar lamentations 'Ikiru' and 'I Live In Fear,' playing on Friday and Saturday respectively. More info newpeopleworld.com.

What’s So Bleeping Funny?!

Placing well-timed humor in a documentary film can be a great way to open minds.

What’s So Bleeping Funny?!

Placing well-timed humor in a documentary film can be a great way to open minds.

What’s So Bleeping Funny?!

Placing well-timed humor in a documentary film can be a great way to open minds.

SFFS Announces Winners of Spring 2011 SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants

The San Francisco Film Society and the Kenneth Rainin Foundation today announced the five winners and two honorable mentions of the fifth round of SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants. The grants are awarded twice annually to filmmakers for narrative feature films with social justice themes that will have significant economic or professional impact on the Bay Area filmmaking community. Between 2009 and 2013 the SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants will award nearly $2.5 million, including a total of $788,000 already awarded in the first five grant rounds.

Carlton Evans and Matthew Lessner (Ross), $50,000 for screenwriting; Aurora Guerrero (Mosquita y Mari), $88,000 for postproduction; Adam Keker (National Park), $35,000 for screenwriting; Timothy Kelly (The Cherokee Word for Water), $75,000 for production; Benh Zeitlin (Beasts of a Southern Wild), $55,000 for postproduction. Honorable Mentions went to: John Dilly (Rubbish), development and Ian Olds (The Western Habit), screenwriting. More at sffs.org.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Pagnol's Foodie Oeuvre Appreciated in East Bay

Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.

Pagnol's Foodie Oeuvre Appreciated in East Bay

Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.

Pagnol's Foodie Oeuvre Appreciated in East Bay

Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.

Pagnol's Foodie Oeuvre Appreciated in East Bay

Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.

Pagnol's Foodie Oeuvre Appreciated in East Bay

Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.

Pagnol's Foodie Oeuvre Appreciated in East Bay

Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.

Field Shoots ‘MLK in Palestine’ on the Fly

Connie Field makes a radical shift to verité filmmaking, accompanied by an equally momentous switch in fundraising strategy with her latest project.

Field Shoots ‘MLK in Palestine’ on the Fly

Connie Field makes a radical shift to verité filmmaking, accompanied by an equally momentous switch in fundraising strategy with her latest project.

Field Shoots ‘MLK in Palestine’ on the Fly

Connie Field makes a radical shift to verité filmmaking, accompanied by an equally momentous switch in fundraising strategy with her latest project.

'Days of Heaven'

Film fans willing to make the trek to El Cerrito's Rialto Cinemas will be rewarded with a screening of Terrence Malick classic (and 'Badlands' companion-piece) 'Days of Heaven.' Concerning the desperate lives of a farm laborer and his lady love, Malick's bleak gem screens only once on Thursday, on the original celluloid. More info rialtocinemas.com.

'Meek's Cutoff' & 'Limbo'

The venerable Castro screen hosts a double feature of Kelly Reichardt's Malick-like 'Meek's Cutoff' and John Sayles' equally existentialist 'Limbo,' itself a good primer for less familiar viewers anticipating the release of his new film 'Amigo' in the coming months. More info castrotheatre.com.

'Between Two Worlds'

Film buffs that missed SFJFF entry 'Between Two Worlds' at this year's festival have another opportunity to see the doc this week at the Roxie. A loose series of events beginning with the festival's own highly controversial screening of 'Rachel' in 2009, 'Between Two Worlds' is moored by a sublime ambient soundtrack by guitarist Fred Firth. For analysis, check out Ruby Rich's in-depth feature here on SF360. Filmmakers Alan Snitow and Deborah Kaufman will be present for Q&A for 7:00 pm screenings Friday, Saturday and Sunday. More info at roxie.com.

High Energy 'Point Blank' Is a Rush

Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.

High Energy 'Point Blank' Is a Rush

Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.

High Energy 'Point Blank' Is a Rush

Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.

High Energy 'Point Blank' Is a Rush

Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.

High Energy 'Point Blank' Is a Rush

Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.

High Energy 'Point Blank' Is a Rush

Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

The Animator's Art with John Musker

Disney animation director John Musker, responsible for 'The Little Mermaid,' 'Aladdin' and a number of other contemporary favorites, appears at The Walt Disney Family Museum to give a short demonstration of the craft of animation to youth ages 8-12. Older aficionados of the director's work can head to PFA on Wednesday for a lecture and presentation by Musker. More info at sffs.org and bampfa.berkeley.edu.

'North By Northwest' & 'Strangers on a Train'

The Stanford Theatre in Palo Alto screens a double feature of highly-regarded Hitchcock films 'North By Northwest' and 'Strangers on a Train' on the original celluloid. Runs through Friday, August 5. More info at stanfordtheatre.org.

'Carmen Jones' with Kalup Linzy

SFMOMA's Opera on Film series continues with a screening of Otto Preminger's 'Carmen Jones,' based on George Bizet's 'Carmen' but recast as a WWII-era yarn with an all-black cast featuring Harry Belafonte and Dorothy Dandridge, who received an Oscar nom for her performance. Screening will be preceded by an introduction and live performance by entrancing New York artist Kalup Linzy. More info at sfmoma.org.

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

'Between Two Worlds' Places Politics of Speech in Spotlight

Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.

'Between Two Worlds' Places Politics of Speech in Spotlight

Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.

'Between Two Worlds' Places Politics of Speech in Spotlight

Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.

'Between Two Worlds' Places Politics of Speech in Spotlight

Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.

'Between Two Worlds' Places Politics of Speech in Spotlight

Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.

'Between Two Worlds' Places Politics of Speech in Spotlight

Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.

SF Chronicle: 'Graham Leggat Takes a Bow at Tosca'

Writes Leah Garchik, "Graham Leggat had said that it probably would be a small group, a gathering of a few friends he'd asked to come to Tosca on Tuesday night to see him. But Leggat, who a month ago stepped down as executive director of the San Francisco Film Society because of illness, has more than a few friends. And it seemed almost all of them wanted to see him, to thank him for what he'd accomplished in six years and, more than that, to embrace him with family-like affection." More at sfgate.com.

Minott Tracks ‘Illness’ to Guam

Berry Minott's work-in-progress travels to Guam seeking a cure, puzzling over scientific mystery.

Minott Tracks ‘Illness’ to Guam

Berry Minott's work-in-progress travels to Guam seeking a cure, puzzling over scientific mystery.

Minott Tracks ‘Illness’ to Guam

Berry Minott's work-in-progress travels to Guam seeking a cure, puzzling over scientific mystery.

In Theaters: 'Life in a Day,' 'The Tree,' 'Cameraman'

Critics from the Bay Area and beyond weigh in on the weekend's openings.

In Theaters: 'Life in a Day,' 'The Tree,' 'Cameraman'

Critics from the Bay Area and beyond weigh in on the weekend's openings.

In Theaters: 'Life in a Day,' 'The Tree,' 'Cameraman'

Critics from the Bay Area and beyond weigh in on the weekend's openings.

Yoav Potash Takes 'Crime's' Case to Larger Audience

Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.

Yoav Potash Takes 'Crime's' Case to Larger Audience

Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.

Yoav Potash Takes 'Crime's' Case to Larger Audience

Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.

SFJFF Opens in Berkeley

The 31st San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, world's largest showcase of Jewish films, continues this week, opening at Berkeley's Roda Theatre on Saturday with a screening of historical drama 'Sarah's Key' starring Kristin Scott Thomas. The festival screens at a number of Bay Area venues. More info at sfjff.org.

'Red Cliff' and 'Red Cliff II' Uncut

4 Star Theatre screens John Woo's sweeping, polarizing 'Red Cliff,' still Asia's largest production at $80 million, along with its sequel 'Red Cliff II', his most recent film. Both films play uncut, on the original celluloid. More info at lntsf.com.

Yoav Potash Takes 'Crime's' Case to Larger Audience

Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.

Yoav Potash Takes 'Crime's' Case to Larger Audience

Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.

Yoav Potash Takes 'Crime's' Case to Larger Audience

Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.

'Finding Joe' Pre-Release Screening

Smith Rafael presents a pre-release screening of 'Finding Joe,' a new doc centered around the teachings and discoveries of universal mythologist and screenwriter's savior Joseph Campbell, featuring appearances by artists and celebs, including Mick Fleetwood, Catherine Hardwicke, Deepak Chopra and others. Filmmaker Patrick Takaya Solomon and Joseph Campbell Foundation's Robert Walter will be in attendance for a discussion following the screening. More info at cafilm.org.

Cinematographer Cardiff's Eye Prized in 'Cameraman' Doc

'Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff' is a lovely portrait of an innovator and consummate craftsman.

Cinematographer Cardiff's Eye Prized in 'Cameraman' Doc

'Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff' is a lovely portrait of an innovator and consummate craftsman.

Cinematographer Cardiff's Eye Prized in 'Cameraman' Doc

'Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff' is a lovely portrait of an innovator and consummate craftsman.

Essential SF: ‘Freedom On My Mind,’ ‘The Good War’

The best of the Bay Area's historical docs transform our understanding of previous eras, and, consequently, our own.

Essential SF: ‘Freedom On My Mind,’ ‘The Good War’

The best of the Bay Area's historical docs transform our understanding of previous eras, and, consequently, our own.

Essential SF: ‘Freedom On My Mind,’ ‘The Good War’

The best of the Bay Area's historical docs transform our understanding of previous eras, and, consequently, our own.

Notes on Leveraging the Big Bash Climax

The planned "reversal" gives documentary filmmakers a means to build drama from otherwise anti-climactic moments.

Notes on Leveraging the Big Bash Climax

The planned "reversal" gives documentary filmmakers a means to build drama from otherwise anti-climactic moments.

Notes on Leveraging the Big Bash Climax

The planned "reversal" gives documentary filmmakers a means to build drama from otherwise anti-climactic moments.

ITVS's Indies Showcase

In celebration of its 20th anniversary, Independent Television Service brings out an online festival, displaying 20 ITVS-supported docs between now and September 23. Representing only the tip of the iceberg of the locally based organization's vast film library, the festival features gems like 'Daughter from Danang,' 'King Corn' and 'The English Surgeon,' and screens the 20 films for three days each, for free. More info and scheduling at itvs.org.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Fassbinder's Funky Futurism Speaks to the Moment

Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.

Ben Berkowitz Offers Sound Advice

Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’

Ben Berkowitz Offers Sound Advice

Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’

Ben Berkowitz Offers Sound Advice

Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’

Ben Berkowitz Offers Sound Advice

Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’

Ben Berkowitz Offers Sound Advice

Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’

Ben Berkowitz Offers Sound Advice

Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’

'The Shooting' with Monte Hellman

Written by 'Five Easy Pieces' scribe Carole Eastman and also starring Jack Nicholson, Monte Hellman's bleak, existential indie western, 'The Shooting,' is ripe for re-evaluation. Hellman, also director of polarizing American indie classic 'Two Lane Blacktop,' will be in attendance for this Saturday's screening at Smith Rafael Film Center. More info cafilm.org. Hellman will also appear Friday June 22 at SF's Roxie Theater for the local premiere of his new film 'Road to Nowhere.'

Voices Converge at San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.

Voices Converge at San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.

Voices Converge at San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.

Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski

PFA opens Hands Up! with a double-bill of Polish New Wave legend Jerzy Skolimowski's early European works, 'Deep End' and 'The Shout,' both featuring bleak comedy, dynamic camera work and soundtrack contributions by then-avant touchstones (Can and Genesis, respectively). The series runs through August 25, see Dennis Harvey's in-depth coverage here. More info bampfa.berkeley.edu.

Voices Converge at San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.

Voices Converge at San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.

Voices Converge at San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.

'Diva'

SF Museum of Modern Art's Opera on Film series screens Jean-Jacques Beineix's under-appreciated 'Diva' on Thursday. The Caesar Award-winning romance/thriller hybrid deftly handles a complex, opera-centric plot littered with brilliant pop-art inspired chase scenes and features a number of standout performances, including those by Jeunet regular Dominique Pinon and real-life opera singer Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez. More info sfmoma.org.

Rough Cuts Presents 'Bitter Seeds'

Counterpulse's Rough Cuts series continues with an in-progress screening of 'Bitter Seeds,' the latest globalization doc by Micha Peled ('Store Wars'). Emmy winners Dan Geller and Dayna Goldfine will moderate a post-film discussion. More info and RSVP at sfroughcuts.com.

San Francisco Jewish Film Festival

The 31st San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, the world's largest showcase of Jewish film, opens at the Castro Theatre on Thursday with Israeli drama 'Mabul' (The Flood, nominated for six of Israel's 'Oscars'), and runs through August 8 at a number of Bay Area venues. An Opening Night bash follows at the Swedish American Hall. More info sfjff.org.

Generator Everything

'If Marius Watz programmed it, then it's going to be vivid. It's going to be crisp, spiky and angular. It will be fast, bright and noisy. And there's going to be a whole, whole lot of it.'

Generator Everything

'If Marius Watz programmed it, then it's going to be vivid. It's going to be crisp, spiky and angular. It will be fast, bright and noisy. And there's going to be a whole, whole lot of it.'

Generator Everything

'If Marius Watz programmed it, then it's going to be vivid. It's going to be crisp, spiky and angular. It will be fast, bright and noisy. And there's going to be a whole, whole lot of it.'

Essential SF: ‘North Beach,’ ‘Medicine For Melancholy’

Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.

Essential SF: ‘North Beach,’ ‘Medicine For Melancholy’

Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.

Essential SF: ‘North Beach,’ ‘Medicine For Melancholy’

Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.

Essential SF: ‘North Beach,’ ‘Medicine For Melancholy’

Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.

Essential SF: ‘North Beach,’ ‘Medicine For Melancholy’

Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.

Essential SF: ‘North Beach,’ ‘Medicine For Melancholy’

Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.

Avoiding Turbulence Leads to Plot Trouble

Note to screenwriters: Don’t defeat the promise of your story by pulling your punches.

Avoiding Turbulence Leads to Plot Trouble

Note to screenwriters: Don’t defeat the promise of your story by pulling your punches.

Avoiding Turbulence Leads to Plot Trouble

Note to screenwriters: Don’t defeat the promise of your story by pulling your punches.

Striking Skolimowski Films Rescued from Obscurity at PFA

Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.

Striking Skolimowski Films Rescued from Obscurity at PFA

Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.

Striking Skolimowski Films Rescued from Obscurity at PFA

Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.

Striking Skolimowski Films Rescued from Obscurity at PFA

Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.

Striking Skolimowski Films Rescued from Obscurity at PFA

Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.

Striking Skolimowski Films Rescued from Obscurity at PFA

Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.

'My Reincarnation'

Smith Rafael presents a sneak preview of Jennifer Fox's new Buddhist-centered doc 'My Reincarnation,' which details a son's alienation from and begrudging acceptance of his father's Buddhist teachings and the notion that he is a reincarnation of an important Tibetan monk. Screening benefits film completion fund; Fox will be in attendance for discussion. More info cafilm.org.

Rapaport Brings Depth to Tribe Called Quest Doc

Actor’s first documentary outing pays tribute to Quest’s influence.

Rapaport Brings Depth to Tribe Called Quest Doc

Actor’s first documentary outing pays tribute to Quest’s influence.

Rapaport Brings Depth to Tribe Called Quest Doc

Actor’s first documentary outing pays tribute to Quest’s influence.

'Stop Making Sense'

Red Vic screens Jonathan Demme's epoch-making Talking Heads concert film 'Stop Making Sense' on the original 35mm. Red Vic will close its doors forever July 25. More info redvicmoviehouse.com.

'Skatetown, U.S.A.'

Roxie presents as-yet-unreleased-to-DVD 'Skatetown, U.S.A.,' Patrick Swayze's first on-screen appearance. The big-budget camp classic, presented on film in all its sparkling, neon-pink, disco-soaked glory, will be accompanied by a "roller disco" at Cellspace. More info roxie.com.

'Shoes' on the Other Feet at SF Silent Film Festival

San Francisco Silent Film Festival features the work of the most important female director of the silent era, Lois Weber.

'Shoes' on the Other Feet at SF Silent Film Festival

San Francisco Silent Film Festival features the work of the most important female director of the silent era, Lois Weber.

'Shoes' on the Other Feet at SF Silent Film Festival

San Francisco Silent Film Festival features the work of the most important female director of the silent era, Lois Weber.

'Smut Capital of America'

YBCA kicks off its Smut Captial of America series with a film of the same name by Michael Stabile, who will be present for discussion at the screening. The in-progress doc chronicles the sex scene in San Francisco in the ’60s and ’70s and the city's rise to prominence as the country's porn capital. SCoA runs through August 18. More info at ybca.org.

Silent Film Festival

The SF institution returns to the Castro Theatre with 18 rediscovered films and live musical accompaniment. Highlights include a collection of Disney's Laugh-O-Grams, a travelogue of an expedition to the Antarctic and a film once cited as "the single greatest masterwork in the history of cinema" by stately film journal Cahiers du Cinema. More info castrotheatre.com.

Essential SF: 'Holy Ghost People,' 'Samsara'

SF filmmakers Peter Adair and Ellen Bruno created classics on religious intensity.

Essential SF: 'Holy Ghost People,' 'Samsara'

SF filmmakers Peter Adair and Ellen Bruno created classics on religious intensity.

Essential SF: 'Holy Ghost People,' 'Samsara'

SF filmmakers Peter Adair and Ellen Bruno created classics on religious intensity.

The Naked Truth on Nudity in Film

A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.

The Naked Truth on Nudity in Film

A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.

The Naked Truth on Nudity in Film

A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.

The Naked Truth on Nudity in Film

A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.

The Naked Truth on Nudity in Film

A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.

The Naked Truth on Nudity in Film

A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.

Torres Story Gains Focus

Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.

Torres Story Gains Focus

Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.

Torres Story Gains Focus

Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.

Torres Story Gains Focus

Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.

Torres Story Gains Focus

Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.

Torres Story Gains Focus

Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Bertolucci Retrospective at PFA

From now until mid-August, PFA screens a series of films by Italian master Bernardo Bertolucci. The series begins on Friday with Bertoluci's early-career rumination on the nature of love and youthful idealism, 'Before the Revolution.' More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

'Page One: Inside the New York Times'

Fascinating SFIFF-screened doc 'Page One: Inside the New York Times' starts its run at Smith Rafael Film Center this Friday. More at cafilm.org. (It also continues at other Bay Area theaters.)

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Weitz Explores the Other L.A. with 'A Better Life'

'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'

Essential SF: ‘Off the Charts,’ ‘Double Dare’

Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.

Essential SF: ‘Off the Charts,’ ‘Double Dare’

Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.

Essential SF: ‘Off the Charts,’ ‘Double Dare’

Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.

Essential SF: ‘Off the Charts,’ ‘Double Dare’

Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.

Essential SF: ‘Off the Charts,’ ‘Double Dare’

Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.

Essential SF: ‘Off the Charts,’ ‘Double Dare’

Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.

Roko Belic Charts Path to ‘Happy’

A former Bay Area filmmaker travels the world in search of the secrets of contentment.

Roko Belic Charts Path to ‘Happy’

A former Bay Area filmmaker travels the world in search of the secrets of contentment.

Roko Belic Charts Path to ‘Happy’

A former Bay Area filmmaker travels the world in search of the secrets of contentment.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Silverdocs 2011: A Festival with Legs

A film festival and conference offered audiences and makers opportunities to move forward.

Silverdocs 2011: A Festival with Legs

A film festival and conference offered audiences and makers opportunities to move forward.

Silverdocs 2011: A Festival with Legs

A film festival and conference offered audiences and makers opportunities to move forward.

Ninth Street Announces Incubator Participants

Press release: The Ninth Street Independent Film Center announced today five new participants for the Center's Media Arts Incubator Program for 2011-2012. "This is a great group of participants," says Skye Christensen, Executive Director of the Ninth Street Independent Film Center. "Each brings a very dynamic project to the Program, and we're really looking forward to what they'll accomplish during their time here." Ninth Street’s Media Arts Incubator Program is designed to nurture socially relevant independent media projects at Ninth Street Independent Film Center. The Incubator Program supports independent filmmakers, start-up film festivals and small media nonprofits through access to workspace and shared resources, such as cross-promotional opportunities, co-productions, affordable meeting or exhibition space and community connections with established media arts partners (Center for Asian American Media, Frameline, San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, and others). Participants are: Rachel Caplan (CEO) and Daniela Rible (Deputy Director) of the annual SF Green Film Festival; Jennifer Tipton and Cary McQueen Morrow, the directors of Art with Impact, which is a platform for the creation of new media on critical social issues; David Evan Harris, Executive Director of the Global Lives Project, a media arts nonprofit that seeks to collaboratively build a video library of human life experience; Scarlett Shepard is Executive Director of the SF Women’s Film Festival; and J.R. Flemming, director and producer of Guarding Dogs, which is a documentary film with a crowd-sourcing model currently in production that makes the case for adopting a dog instead breeding/buying.

Border Trouble Comes to Pacific Film Archive

New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.

Border Trouble Comes to Pacific Film Archive

New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.

Border Trouble Comes to Pacific Film Archive

New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.

Japanese Divas

Pacific Film Archive's series of female-centered classic Japanese cinema continues with screenings of 'The Life of Oharu,' 'Rashomon' and 'Sancho the Bailiff'. Series runs through late August. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.

Border Trouble Comes to Pacific Film Archive

New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.

Border Trouble Comes to Pacific Film Archive

New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.

Border Trouble Comes to Pacific Film Archive

New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.

'Forgetting Dad'

Rick Minnick, oldest son a middle-aged father of five who started a new life after suffering from amnesia, returns to California in an attempt to discover the truth behind his father's disappearance in this haunting doc. Minnick and some film subjects will be present for Q&A at both screenings. More at redvic.com.

Critic's Notebook: A Day in the Life

One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.

Critic's Notebook: A Day in the Life

One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.

Critic's Notebook: A Day in the Life

One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.

Critic's Notebook: A Day in the Life

One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.

Critic's Notebook: A Day in the Life

One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.

Critic's Notebook: A Day in the Life

One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.

Critic's Notebook: Frameline at 35 Still Finds Youth a Focus

It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.

Critic's Notebook: Frameline at 35 Still Finds Youth a Focus

It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.

Critic's Notebook: Frameline at 35 Still Finds Youth a Focus

It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.

Critic's Notebook: Frameline at 35 Still Finds Youth a Focus

It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.

Critic's Notebook: Frameline at 35 Still Finds Youth a Focus

It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.

Critic's Notebook: Frameline at 35 Still Finds Youth a Focus

It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'