The 36th Annual American Indian Film Festival 2011

'On the Ice'

Media Inquiries:
Cindy Benitez
aifipublicrelations@gmail.com

The 36TH ANNUAL AMERICAN INDIAN FILM FESTIVAL®
CELEBRATING THE BEST OF INDEPENDENT NATIVE CINEMA

By American Indian Film Festival
Posted at Censored News
http://www.bsnorrell.blogspot.com

SAN FRANCISCO -- The American Indian Film Institute (AIFI), proudly announces the 36th annual American Indian Film Festival,November 4-12, 2011 in San Francisco. The American Indian Film Festival will premiere over 70 innovative feature films, shorts, public service, music videos and documentaries of USA American Indian and Canada First Nation communities. Founded in 1975, AIFF has established itself as the premiere Native film festival in North America. This year’s selection continues to celebrate the Festival’s tradition for excellence and diversity with powerful performances and new cinematic expression by cutting-edge media makers.

Public screenings and events will be held for nine days, from Nov. 4-9 at the Landmark Embarcadero Center Cinema, One Embarcadero Center, Promenade Level; and conclude Nov. 10-12 at the Palace of Fine Arts, 3301 Lyon St.@Bay Street.

“The film festival and awards show are the cornerstone of what we do — provide an opportunity and national venue for emerging and established filmmakers, entertainers and performing artists to convene, renew their artistic spirit and share their gifts." - Founder/ Director Michael Smith.

FILM FESTIVAL HIGHLIGHTS

Nov. 4
OPENING NIGHT
Every Emotion Costs -Darlene Naponse (Canada) U.S. Premiere
A dramatic feature that follows the reality of one woman’s journey of returning home to the reserve to face family, community, and the ceremony of death. Starring Michelle St. John, Tantoo Cardinal,Nathaniel Arcand,and Roseanne Supernault.

Nov. 5
The Thick Dark Fog – Randy Vasquez (U.S.) World Premiere
Documents the emotional journey of Walter Littlemoon, a 69 year-old Lakota man, who begins to heal himself, his community and his heritage after painful experiences at a Federal government boarding school.

Off the Rez - Jonathan Hock (U.S.)
A coming-of-age story that follows Shoni Schimmel, a Umatilla Indian, who is a rising basketball star that dreams of being the first from her tribe to get a college scholarship.

Nov. 6
Holy Man: The USA vs. Douglas White – Jennifer Jessum (U.S.)    San Francisco Premiere
The story of Douglas White, an 88 year-old Lakota Sioux medicine man from Pine Ridge Indian Reservation who spent 17 years in federal prison for a crime he did not commit. New evidence is uncovered and his case is brought back to Federal Court.

Nov. 7
Wild Horses & Renegades – James Anaquad-Kleinert (U.S.)
Examines the politics behind the Bureau of Land Management's (BLM) controversial policies on public lands and questions the fate of America's wild horses and burros, whose very existence is in jeopardy.

Nov. 8
White Indians Walking– Andrew Genaille (Canada) U.S. Premiere
After twenty years, a mother returns home with her daughter after being ejected from her reserve, to find out why.  This starts a day of remembering the past, discussion of the present and hope for the future as they delve into family, politics and traditional food.

Nov. 9
Yellow Rock – Nick Vallelonga (U.S.) San Francisco Premiere
A gritty full-length Western that embarks on a group of six cowboys who must fight the elements, their greed, and uncover the truth behind their “Search and Rescue” mission. Starring Michael Spears, Eddie Spears, Zahn McClarnon, Michael Biehn, James Russo and Lenore Andriel.

Nov. 10
Shouting Secrets – Korinna Sehringer (U.S.) World Premiere
The universal story about an All-American family coming back together under the chaotic event of a parent's sudden illness. Starring  Chaske Spencer, Tyler Christopher, Tonantzin Carmelo Tantoo Cardinal, Gil Birmingham, and Rodney A. Grant.

Nov.11
On the Ice – Andrew Okpeaha MacLean (U.S.) San Francisco Premiere
A suspenseful feature-length drama that follows two teenage boys on the snow-covered Arctic tundra, who are trapped by a dark and tragic secret. Starring Josiah Patkotak and Frank Qutuq Irelan.  Best First Feature Award from the 2011 Berlin International Film Festival.

AIFI TRIBAL TOURING PROGRAM – Indian Youth screenings from Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation, CA; Nisqually Indian Tribe, WA; Puyallup Tribe of Indians, WA; and Lummi Nation, WA.

Nov. 12
AMERICAN INDIAN MOTION PICTURE AWARDS (AIMPA)
Honors filmmakers, actors and showcases contemporary Native American talent. The performance line-up includes: Blues singer/songwriter Derek Miller, Punk/Indie band Miracle Dolls, and violinist Swil Kanim.

For more information visit our website www.aifisf.com. All programs are open to the general public and will require tickets for admission.Advance Tickets available thru AIFI: 415-554-0525 Visa & Mastercard. On-site tickets available at the following theater venues (on day of show.)