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Miami Film Festival – April 5-14 2024

Jan 27

Lights! Red Carpets! Action! Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival Announces Incredible 32nd Edition Film Lineup

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For Immediate Release

Tuesday, January 27, 2015
Lights! Red Carpets! Action!
Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival
Announces Incredible 32nd Edition Film Lineup
Running March 6–15, 2015, Filmmakers from 40 Countries Proudly Exhibit 125 Feature, Documentary and Short Films

The Festival Announces and Awards Its Artist Tribute 2015 to “The Independent Cuban Filmmaker”

Tickets on Sale February 6th For Miami Film Society Members and February 13th to the General Public

Miami, FL — Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival, the only major film festival worldwide produced by a college or university, is delighted to announce the full roster of incredible internationally-produced films selected to screen during its 32nd edition. Running March 6 – 15, 2015, the 10-day annual event takes place at the Festival’s traditional home, the historic Olympia Theater at Gusman Center in downtown, plus six additional cinemas scattered across The Magic City; and includes a plethora of screenings, stylish parties, thoughtful panel discussions, spirited film competitions, awards ceremonies and immersive cultural exchange opportunities for filmmakers attending from across the globe. This year’s Festival showcases 125 films, including 94 feature films and documentaries, 18 short films, 11 student films and 2 works-in-progress, produced and directed by both renowned and emerging talent from 40 countries. The Festival is pleased to announce numerous important premieres: 14 World, 6 International, 22 North American and 12 US premieres, debuting in Miami.

María Muñoz-Blanco, Miami Dade College’s MDCulture Executive Director states, “Today’s film festival experience has become a major platform for thought-provoking subjects and has truly transcended into a powerful educational vehicle. This 32nd edition of Miami International Film Festival brings forth a wide range of ideas and issues that reflect Miami Dade College’s global outlook, encouraging discourse and cross-cultural learning.  The Festival’s programming reflects Miami Dade College’s mission to bridge the gap between having a culturally engaging experience and making a difference in the community.”

All feature films in the Festival are eligible for the Lexus Audience Favorite Feature Film Award. New this year – all Short Films are eligible for their own Lexus Audience Favorite Award. Lexus is Festival’s official automobile.

The Festival was curated by Executive Director Jaie Laplante and a team comprised of veteran programmers Thom Powers, Andres Castillo, Orlando Rojas, Carol Coombes and culinary cinema specialist Lee Brian Schrager.

The full 2015 lineup includes:

CINEDWNTWN Opening Night Film presented by Miami Downtown Development Authority and Patrón Opening Night Party on Friday, March 6, 2015

  • The Festival opens at 7:00 p.m. with the Florida premiere of Director Damián Szifron’s much anticipated black comedy Wild Tales (Relatos salvajes) from Argentina, screening at the magnificent Olympia Theater at Gusman Center. The film boasts an all-star cast of Argentina’s biggest stars in an epic comedy of unfettered, delicious revenge. Having played in Official Competition at the Cannes Film Festival 2014, this is Szifron’s third feature film after The Bottom Of The Sea (2003), which played at Miami International Film Festival 2004, and his follow up feature On Probation. Produced by legendary Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar, Wild Tales is currently nominated for Best Foreign Language Film at the upcoming 87th Academy Awards.
  • Patrón then presents the Opening Night Party at 9:00 p.m. at the Freedom Tower of Miami Dade College. In celebration of the opening night film, a selection of the best culinary offerings from Miami’s top Argentine restaurants and an over-the-top “wedding cake” will be on hand. Guests will enjoy an endless flow of creative Patrón cocktails to tip the hat toward 10 days of provocative cinema.
CINEDWNTWN Awards Night Film Presented By Miami Downtown Development Authority and Patrón XO Café Awards Night Party on Saturday, March 14, 2015
  • The Festival’s major closing gala is at Olympia Theater at Gusman Center with a 7:00 p.m. International Premiere screening of  Sidetracked (Las ovejas no pierden el tren) from Spain, directed by Álvaro Fernández Armero and starring Spanish box office sensations Inma Cuestaand Raúl Arévalo. This hilarious film follows a comically rudderless couple in mid-thirties life crisis, with stalled careers, an adorable lonesome son, and dysfunctional siblings who nearly steal the show.
  • Patrón XO Café then presents the Closing Awards Night Party at 9:00 p.m. at the Historic Alfred I. Dupont Building in Downtown Miami. Toast the Festival’s award winning talent and celebrate 10 magnificent days of film, enjoying Patrón XO Café cocktails, Stella Artois and a variety of culinary delights. The South Florida Lexus Dealers will host a VIP lounge and the Lexus Audience Award winners will also be revealed.
ARTIST TRIBUTE AWARD 2015 Presented by 88 RUE DU RHONE and Tribute Night “Behind The Curtain” Party Presented by HBO, on Sunday, March 8, 2015
  • This year’s recipient of the Festival’s Artist Tribute Award is The Independent Cuban Filmmaker. For its annual Artist Tribute, the Festival has historically recognized an exceptional individual’s contributions to international film; however, this 2015 tribute respects the collective struggles, promise, importance and profiles of The Independent Cuban Filmmaker as a categorical whole. The Festival chooses this Award in a decision to celebrate the resolve, creativity and hope of all Cuban independent filmmakers.
  • The Tribute will take place at the Olympia Theater at 7:00 p.m., and will be followed by the North American Premiere of The Project of the Century (La obra del siglo), which will be presented by Cuban filmmaker Carlos Machado Quintela, a participant in the Festival’s Emerging Cuban Independent Film/Video Arts Program presented by The Related Group. An exuberant on-stage party presented by HBO will follow the screening.
EMERGING CUBAN INDEPENDENT FILM/VIDEO ARTISTS PROGRAM, PRESENTED BY THE RELATED GROUP
  • The Festival is proud to announce the four filmmakers selected by this year’s unique program.  In addition to Machado Quintela, the selected filmmakers include producer Claudia Calviño, screening her newly completed documentary Hotel Nueva Isla. Also selected for the program are Cuban directors Jessica Rodriguez, who will be discussing and showing clips from her upcoming film Dark Glasses (Espejuelos oscuros) and Marcel Beltrán, who will screen both his newly completed short film, “The Cloud” (“La nube”), and discuss and show clips of his work-in-progress feature documentary film.
  • Among Calviño’s other producing credits are Juan of the Dead (Juan de los muertos), which screened at the 2012 Festival and went on to a historic win for Best Latin American Film at the 2013 Goya Awards in Spain, and also Melaza, which screened at the 2013 Festival.  Machado Quintela’s first feature, The Swimming Pool (La piscina), also screened at the 2013 Festival and was co-awarded the Lexus Opera Prima Ibero-American Grand Jury Prize. Additionally, The Swimming Pool won a major prize from 2013 Marrakech Film Festival.
  • As part of the program, Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater will be contextualizing the four artists’ work with retrospective screenings of their earlier work in the week preceding the Festival.  Beginning on Saturday, February 28th, and running for five consecutive nights, each Showcase provides an in-depth opportunity to view short films, medium-length documentaries and feature work by the four filmmakers.  A special package rate of $25 for all five showcases is available.
  • Additional activities for the four filmmakers will take place at Miami Dade College’s North Campus, where they will present Master Classes for College students, and tour the Campus’ School of Entertainment & Design Technology.
FESTIVAL COMPETITION CATEGORIES:

Knight Competition Presented by The James L. & John S. Knight Foundation: Generously presented by the Knight Foundation, Grand Jury Achievement Awards totaling $40,000 in cash will be distributed to an outstanding feature length film, director and actor, as selected by a distinguished jury. The 11 films selected for the competition are:

  • Aurora (Chile, directed by Rodrigo Sepúlveda) *North American Premiere
  • Blue Blood (Sangue azul) (Brazil, directed by Lírio Ferreira) *North American Premiere
  • Butterfly (Mariposas) (Argentina, directed by Marco Berger) *North American Premiere
  • Invasion (Invasión) (Panama, directed by Abner Benahim) *North American Premiere
  • Life is Sacred (Denmark / Ireland / Norway / Colombia, directed by Andreas Dalsgaard, Viviana Gómez & Nicolás Servide) *North American Premiere
  • Los Hongos (Colombia / France, directed by Oscar Ruiz Navia) *US Premiere
  • The Obscure Spring (Las oscuras primaveras) (Mexico, directed by Ernesto Contreras) *US Premiere
  • The Project of the Century (La obra del siglo) (Cuba, Argentina, Germany directed by Carlos Machado Quintela) *North American Premiere
  • The Strongest Man (USA, directed by Kenny Riches)
  • Sunstrokes (Las insoladas) (Argentina, directed by Gustavo Taretto) *North American Premiere
  • Voice Over (La voz en off) (Chile, directed by Cristián Jiménez) *US Premiere Co-Presented with Film Comment Selects 2015 at the NYC’s Film Society of Lincoln Center.
Jordan Alexander Ressler Foundation Screenwriting Prize: Determined by a jury, this $5,000 cash award generously provided by the Jordan Alexander Ressler Foundation is open to any first time feature-length screenwriters, regardless of country of origin.
  • 3 Beauties (3 Bellezas) (Venezuela, screenplay by Carlos Caridad Montero) *North American Premiere
  • Ben’s at Home (Canada, screenplay by Dan Abramovici and Mars Horodyski)
  • Cut Snake (Australia, screenplay by Blake Ayshford)
  • East Side Sushi (USA, screenplay by Anthony Lucero)
  • A Girl at my Door (Dohee-ya) (Korea, screenplay by Jung July)
  • Innocent Killers (Asesinos inocentes) (Spain, screenplay by J.M. Asensio and Gonzalo Bendala) *World Premiere
  • Love at First Fight (Les combattants) (France, screenplay by Thomas Cailley and Claude Le Pape)
  • On the Road, Somewhere (Algun lugar) (Dominican Republic, screenplay by Wendy Muniz and Guillermo Zouain) *World Premiere
  • Posthumous (USA, screenplay by Lulu Wang) *North American Premiere
  • Preggoland (Canada, screenplay by Sonja Bennett)
  • Set Fire to the Stars (UK, screenplay by Andy Goddard and Celyn Jones) *International Premiere
  • Someone Else (USA, screenplay by Nelson Kim) *World Premiere
  • Tango Glories (Fermin  glorias del tango) (Argentina, screenplay by Oliver Kolker)
  • Theeb (Jordan, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, UK, screenplay by Naji Abu Nawar)
  • They are All Dead (Todos están muertos) (Spain, Germany, Mexico, screenplay by Beatriz Sanchís) *US Premiere
  • Tour de Force (Hin und weg) (Germany, screenplay by Ariane Schröder) *US Premiere
Knight Documentary Achievement Award Presented by The James L. & John S. Knight Foundation:This $10,000 cash award is presented to the most engaging feature-length documentary created by a filmmaker, as selected by the Festival audience. Open to 24 documentaries in the Festival, regardless of Festival section, that are 50 minutes or longer and are either world premiering at the Festival, or have had their world premiere in March 2014 or later.  Films eligible for this Award are:
  • 13 Million Voices (USA, directed by Janelle Gueits) *World Premiere
  • Being Evel (USA, directed by Daniel Junge)
  • Before We are Forgotten (Antes de que nos olviden) (Mexico, directed by Matías Gueilburt) *US Premiere
  • Best of Enemies (USA, directed by Robert Gordon & Morgan Neville)
  • City of Gold (USA, directed by Laura Gabbert)
  • Dawg Fight (USA, directed by Billy Corben) *World Premiere
  • Finding Gastón (Buscando a Gastón) (Peru, directed by Patricia Perez)
  • The Holders (USA, directed by Carla Forte) *World Premiere
  • Hot Girls Wanted (USA, directed by Jill Bauer, Ronna Gradus)
  • Invasion (Invasión) (Panama, Argentina, directed by Abner Benahim) *North American Premiere
  • Iris (USA, directed by Albert Maysles)
  • Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck (USA, directed by Brett Morgan)
  • The Land of Many Palaces (China, UK, directed by Ting Song, Adam James Smith)
  • Life is Sacred (Denmark, Ireland, Norway, Colombia, directed by Andreas Dalsgaard, Viviana Gomez, Nicolas Servide) *North American Premiere
  • The Lost Aviator (Australia, directed by Andrew Lancaster) *North American Premiere
  • The Muses of Bashevis Singer (Israel, directed by Shaul Betser, Asaf Galay)
  • Paco de Lucía: A Journey (Paco de Lucia: la búsqueda) (Spain, directed by Curro Sánchez Varela) *North American Premiere
  • Playing Lecuona (Spain, Colombia, directed by Pavel Giroud, Juan Manuel Villar) *North American Premiere
  • The Record Man (USA, directed by Mark Moorman) *World Premiere
  • The Salt of the Earth (La sel de la terre) (Brazil / Italy / France, directed by Juliano Ribeiro Salgado & Wim Wenders) *2015 Oscar nominee for Best Documentary Feature
  • Sweet Micky for President (USA, Haiti, Canada, directed by Ben Patterson)
  • Tea Time (La once) (Chile, USA, directed by Maite Alberdi) *North American Premiere
  • This Is My Land (France, Israel, Palestine, Poland, directed by Tamara Erde)
  • This Is What It Is (Esto es lo que hay) (France, directed by Léa Rinaldi) *World Premiere
Lexus Ibero-American Opera Prima Competition: A distinguished jury will select from the following five first-time feature filmmakers from Latin America, Spain and/or Portugal for a $10,000 cash award presented by Lexus:
  • 3 Beauties (3 Bellezas) (Venezuela, directed by Carlos Caridad Montero) *North American Premiere
  • Easy Sex, Sad Movies (Sexo fácil, películas tristes) (Argentina / Spain, directed by Alejo Flah) *International Premiere
  • In the Grayscale (En las gamas de gris) (Chile, directed by Claudio Marcone) *World Premiere
  • On the Road, Somewhere (Algun lugar) (Dominican Republic, directed by Guillermo Zouain) *World Premiere
  • They are All Dead (Todos están muertos) (Spain, Germany, Mexico, directed by Beatriz Sanchís) *US Premiere
Park Grove Shorts Competition: Luxury developers Terra Group and The Related Group generously sponsor the Park Grove Shorts Competition in the name of their upcoming Park Grove condominium partnership, presenting the winning short filmmaker with a $2,500 cash prize.
  • “60 Candles” (Uruguay, directed by Ana Guevara and Letícia Jorge) *World Premiere (Screens with Voice Over program)
  • “The Bigger Picture” (U.K. directed by Daisy Jacobs) *2015 Oscar-nominee (Screens with A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Contemplating Existence program)
  •  “Distance” (USA, directed by Ismael Gomez III) (Screened as part of From A Distance Shortsprogram)
  • “Freddie of Wynwood” (USA, directed by Fabian Cardenas) *World Premiere (Screens with The Holders program)
  • “Maalu” (Australia, Sri Lanka, directed by Sanjay De Silva) *World Premiere (Screens with The Land of Many Palaces program)
  • “Miami” (Portugal, directed by Simão Cayatte) *North American Premiere (Screens with From A Distance Shorts program)
  • “Old Bay” (USA, directed by Lena Rudnick) (Screened with Ghost Stories Shorts program)
  • “She Bought it in Zarautz” (“Zarautzen erosi zuen”) (Spain, directed by Aitor Arregui) *North American Premiere (Screens with Flowers program)
  • “Thread” (Malaysia, directed by Virginia Kennedy) *North American Premiere (Screens with From A Distance Shorts program)
  • “A Tree in the Sea” (United Arab Emirates, directed by Shahir Zag) *World Premiere (Screens with From A Distance Shorts program)
  • “Young Lions of Gypsy” (“A ciambra”) (Italy, directed by Jonas Carpignano) (Screens with Ghost Stories Shorts program)
FESTIVAL NON-COMPETITION CATEGORIES:

CINEDWNTWN GALAS Presented By Miami Downtown Development Authority

  • Everybody Leaves (Todos se van) (Colombia, directed by Sergio Cabrera) *North American Premiere
  • Kamikaze (Spain, directed by Álex Pina) *North American Premiere
  • The Pilgrim – Paulo Coehlo’s Best Story (Não pare na pista) (Brazil, Spain, directed by Daniel Augusto) *International Premiere
  • Playing Lecuona (Spain, directed by Pavel Giroud & Juan Manuel Villar) *North American Premiere
FLORIDA FOCUS: Nine films by Sunshine State filmmakers and directors.
  • Dawg Fight (USA, directed by Billy Corben) *World Premiere
  • “Distance” (USA, directed by Ismael Gomez III) (Screens as part of From a Distance Shorts program)
  • “Freddie of Wynwood” (USA, directed by Fabian Cardenas) *World Premiere (Screens with The Holders program)
  • The Holders (USA, directed by Carla Forte) *World Premiere
  • “Papa Machete” (USA, directed by Jonathan David Kane) (Screens with The Architecture of Colorprogram)
  • “Posthumous” (USA, directed by Noah DeBonis) (Screened with Ghost Stories Shorts program)
  • The Record Man  (USA, directed by Mark Moorman) *World Premiere
  • “The Sun Like A Big Dark Animal” (USA, directed by Christina Felisgrau & Ronnie Rivera) (Screens with The Architecture of Color program)
  • “The Wizard” (“El mago”) (USA, directed by David Liz) *US Premiere (Screens with Ghost Stories Shorts program)
CINEMASLAM features the best works of some of Miami’s most brilliant student filmmakers. This year’s 5th annual competition includes work from students Zachary Burgh, Frederick Criswell, Carlos Cuervo, Melissa Gomez, Patricia Joaquim & Karina Rey, Rita Pereyra, and Timothy Wilcox of Miami Dade College; Luis Galvis and Tyler Huyser from University of Miami, Adonis Lugo from Miami International University; and Ransey Padilla from Center of Cinematography, Arts and TV Miami. The Audience Award winner will be voted on during the screening and announced at the Patrón Opening Night Party at the Freedom Tower of Miami Dade College.

MIAMI MANIFESTO: Film experiences that engage the audience with political headlines beyond your average daily read.  The films in this special section, debuting at the Festival this year, will feature extended post-screening conversations with the filmmakers, and lively debates about the extended issues presented in their films.  Inbetween the two screenings, a reception hosted by SundanceNow DocClub will take place at Coral Gables Art Cinema.

  • Best of Enemies (USA, directed by Robert Gordon and Morgan Neville)
  • Life is Sacred (Denmark / Ireland / Norway / Colombia, directed by Andreas Dalsgaard, Viviana Gomez & Nicolas Servide) *North American Premiere
SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS:
  • Tough Ain’t Enough: Conversations with Albert S. Ruddy (USA, directed by Gregory J. Bradley)
  • “Habana” (Cuba, directed by Edouard Salier) (Screens with From A Distance Shorts program)
  • “The Last Flight of Hubert Le Blon” (“Hubert le blonen azken hegaldia”) (Spain, directed by Koldo Almandoz) *North American Premiere (Screens with The Lost Aviator program)
  • “The Windows” (“Las ventanas”) (Cuba, directed by Maryulis Alfonso Yero) *North American Premiere. (Screens with Venice program)
AMERICA THE BEAUTIFUL: Three cinematic love letters to the strong independent character of the United States.
  • Posthumous (USA, directed by Lulu Wang) *North American Premiere
  • Someone Else (USA, directed by Nelson Kim) *World Premiere
  • Spring (USA, directed by Justin Benson, Aaron Moorhead)
VISIONS: Provocative and stirring three feature-length visual experiences guaranteed to test the limits and take viewers to the extreme.
  • A Pigeon Sat on a Branch Reflecting on Existence (En duva satt pa en gren och funderade pa tillvaron) (Sweden, Norway, France, Germany, directed by Roy Andersson)
  • Magical Girl (Spain, directed by Carlos Vermut)
  • White God (Fehér isten) (Hungary / Germany / Sweden, directed by Kornél Mundruczó)
REEL MUSIC: Five documentaries emanating the global power of music.
  • 13 Million Voices (USA, directed by Janelle Gueits) *World Premiere
  • This Is What It Is (Esto es lo que hay) (France, directed by Léa Rinaldi) *World Premiere
  • Kurt Cobain: Montage of Heck (USA, directed by Brett Morgan)
  • Paco de Lucía: A Journey (Paco de Lucía: la busqúeda) (Spain, directed by Curro Sánchez Varela) *North American Premiere
  • Sweet Micky For President (USA / Haiti / Canada, directed by Bob Patterson)
CINEMA 360° Presented by ViendoMovies: A vibrant and dynamic selection of eight narrative works, from both accomplished and emerging filmmakers, including an international selection of dramas, comedies, suspense thrillers, neo-westerns, and innovative docudramas.
  • The Architecture of Color (A arquitetura da cor) (Brazil, directed by José Henrique Fonseca and Priscila Lopes) *World Premiere
  • Beautiful Youth (Hermosa juventud) (Spain, directed by Jaime Rosales) *US Premiere
  • Ben’s at Home (Canada, directed by Mars Horodyski)
  • Black Souls (Anime nere) (Italy, directed by Francesco Munzi)
  • Ciudad Delirio (Colombia, Spain, directed by Chus Gutiérrez)
  • Cut Snake (Australia, directed by Tony Ayres)
  • The Dinner (I nostri ragazzi) (Italy, directed by Ivano de Matteo)
  • The Farewell Party (Mita tova) (Israel, Germany, directed by Sharon Maymon and Tal Granit)
  • Felix and Meira (Félix et Meira) (Canada, directed by Maxime Giroux)
  • Flowers (Loreak) (Spain, directed by Jon Garaño, Jose Mari Goenaga)
  • The Fool (Durak) (Russia, directed by Yuri Bykov)
  • Guidance (Canada, directed by Pat Mills) *US Premiere
  • Innocent Killers (Asesinos inocentes) (Spain, directed by Gonzalo Bendala) *World Premiere
  • Panama Canal Stories (Historias del canal) (Panama, directed by Carolina Borrero, Pinky Mon, Luis Franco, Abner Benaim and Pituka Ortega Heilbron) *International Premiere
  • Phoenix (Germany, directed by Christian Petzold)
  • Preggoland (Canada, directed by Jacob Tierney)
  • Sand Dollars (Dólares de arena) (Dominican Republic, Argentina, Mexico, directed by Laura Amelia Guzmán, Israel Cárdenas)
  • A Second Chance (En chance til) (Denmark, directed by Susanne Bier) *US Premiere
  • Set Fire to the Stars (UK, directed by Andy Goddard) *International Premiere
  • Shrew’s Nest (Musarañas) (Spain, France, directed by Juanfer Andrés, Esteban Roel)
  • Tango Glories (Fermín: glorias del tango) (Argentina, directed by Hernán Findling, Oliver Kolker)
  • Theeb (Jordan, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, UK, directed by Naji Abu Nawar)
  • Tour de Force (Hin und weg) (Germany, directed by Christian Zübert) *US Premiere
  • Venice (Venecia) (Cuba, Colombia, directed by Kiki Álvarez) *US Premiere
  • Warsaw 44 (Miasto 44) (Poland, directed by Jan Kosama)
SPOTLIGHT ON ASIAN CINEMA Presented by TV5MONDE: A collection of seven feature length films by both acclaimed and emerging French filmmakers. Zhang Meng’s Uncle Victory is the opening night film of the program.
  • In the Name of My Daughter (L’homme quón aimait trop) (France, directed by André Téchiné)
  • Ladygrey (France, Belgium, South Africa, directed by Alain Choquart) *International Premiere
  • Love at First Fight (Les combattants) (France, directed by Thomas Cailley)
  • Saint Laurent (France, directed by Bertrand Bonello)
  • The Price of Fame (La rançon de la gloire) (France, directed by Xavier Beauvois) *US Premiere
  • Three Hearts (3 coeurs) (France, directed by Benoît Jacquot)
  • Weekends in Normandy (Week-ends) (France, directed by Anne Villacèque)
SPOTLIGHT ON ASIAN CINEMA Presented by byejoe: A collection of seven films from both Asian and Asian American directors. Zhang Meng’s Uncle Victory is the opening night film of the program.
  • A Girl at my Door (Dohee-ya) (Korea, directed by Jung July)
  • A Hard Day (kkeut-kka-ji-gan-da) (Korea, directed by Seong-hun Kim)
  • The Land of Many Palaces (China, directed by Ting Song, Adam Smith)
  • The Liar (Geojinmal) (Korea, directed by Kim Dong-myung) *North American Premiere
  • Partners in Crime (Kong heng) (Taiwan/China, directed by Chang Jung-Chi)
  • Scarlet Innocence (Madam Ppang-Deok) (Korea, directed by Yim Pil-sung)
  • Uncle Victory (Shengli) (China, directed by Zhang Meng)
CULINARY CINEMA:  Returning for a third mouthwatering year, a playful pairing of Foodie Films with fantastic Local Restaurants, Sponsored by Frederick Wildman & Sons

The Culinary Cinema category schedule is comprised of five distinct film & restaurant pairings:

  • City of Gold (USA, directed by Laura Gabbert) – Saturday, March 7 at 3:30 p.m. / Screening paired with 1:00 p.m. lunch at Juvia Miami Beach (1111 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach)
  • East Side Sushi (USA, directed by Anthony Lucero) – Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. / Screening paired with 9:00 p.m. dinner at SUSHISAMBA Coral Gables in The Westin Hotel on Ponce de Leon (180 Aragon Avenue Coral Gables)
  • Finding Gastón (Buscando a Gastón) (Peru, directed by Patricia Pérez) – Monday, March 9 at 6:50 p.m. / Screening paired with 8:30 p.m. dinner at La Mar by Gastón Acurio at the Mandarin Oriental Hotel (500 Brickell Key Drive, Miami)
  • Natural Resistance (Italy / France, directed by Jonathan Nossiter) – Wednesday, March 11 at 7:00 p.m. / Screening paired with 8:45 p.m. dinner at Quattro Gastronomia Italiana (1014 Lincoln Road, Miami Beach)
  • Rewined (Vinodentro) (Italy, directed by Ferdinando Vicentini Orniani) – Thursday, March 12 at 7:00 p.m. / Screening paired with 9:00 p.m. dinner at Macchialina Taverna Rustica (820 Alton Road, Miami Beach) *North American Premiere
FROM THE VAULT: The official poster for the Festival’s 32nd edition features legendary writer, producer and director Orson Welles strolling the Miami Beach boardwalk in 1943. In celebration, and with 2015 being the centennial of Welles’ birth, the Festival co-presents a series of pristine theatrical screenings of some of Welles’ most famous and dynamic works.
  • Citizen Kane (USA, directed by Orson Welles), co-presented with Miami Beach Cinematheque
  • The Stranger (USA, directed by Orson Welles), co-presented with Norton Herrick Collection and Nu-ray Pictures
During the month of March, Miami Beach Cinematheque will also present an exhibit of Welles memorabilia and screen three of his other classic films.

MASTER CLASS SEMINAR SERIES: Dream. Script. Screen. Very special conversations with the filmmakers, technical experts and industry leaders literally creating and shaping modern cinema.

  • A Conversation with Cheryl Boone Isaacs: The Academy of Motion Picture Arts & Sciences President Cheryl Boone Isaacs talks about her illustrious career in Hollywood, the changes facing the motion picture industry and the Academy’s role in shaping the motion picture landscape as the new century continues to unfold. (Tuesday, March 10 at 7:00 p.m. at O Cinema Miami Beach)
  • DIY Digital Distribution Panel: Miami’s own Rakontur producers Billy Corben and Alfred Spellman discuss the future of distribution and their plans for the company’s latest documentary Dawg Fight.(Saturday, March 7 at 1:00 p.m. at Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater 2)
  • Mastering Cinematography With Alain Choquart: Alain Choquart’s career as a cinematographer spans over 30 years, having collaborated with Bertrand Tavernier on more than seven titles.(Wednesday, March 11 at 4:00 p.m. at Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater 2)
  • Score Some Points on The Art of Film Music Composing With Andrew Lancaster: Hosted by Miami composer Carlos Rafael Rivera. Andrew Lancaster is a multiple award-winning Australian director and composer. His unique directing style combines cinematic vision, and natural performances with a strong emphasis on music, sound, choreography and rhythm. (Monday, March 9 at 4:00 p.m. at Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater 2)
  • Producing In Florida And Beyond 3: The third edition of this popular masterclass will focus on project creation and development with a focus on work in a full service studio environment, legal matters, and the future of storytelling with new technology development. Moderated by Kevin Sharpley. (Saturday, March 14 at 1:00 p.m. at Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater 2)
Miami International Film Festival screening venues are as unique as the films themselves, reflecting the communities the Festival serves through film.  Historic landmarks Olympia Theater at Gusman Center and Miami Dade College’s Tower Theater evoke the golden age of Hollywood, tailor-made for major red carpet events. The Festival will also screen films at Cinépolis, Coral Gables Art Cinema, Regal South Beach Cinemas and O Cinema Miami Beach. Special event venues include Freedom Tower at Miami Dade College, and The Historic Alfred I. Dupont Building.

Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Friday, February 13.  For membership opportunities or more information about Miami International Film Festival, please visit www.miff2020.wpengine.com or call 305-237-FILM(3456).

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About Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival
Celebrating its 32nd annual edition March 6 – 15, 2015, Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival is considered the preeminent film festival for showcasing Ibero-American cinema in the U.S., and a major launch pad for all international and documentary cinema. The annual Festival more than 60,000 audience members and more than 400 filmmakers, producers, talent and industry professionals. It is the only major festival housed within a college or university. In the last five years, the Festival has screened films from more than 60 countries, including 300 World, International, North American, U.S. and East Coast Premieres. Miami International Film Festival’s special focus on Ibero-American cinema has made the Festival a natural gateway for the discovery of new talent from this diverse territory. The Festival also offers unparalleled educational opportunities to film students and the community at large. Major sponsors of the 2015 Festival include Knight Foundation, Lexus and Miami-Dade County. For more information, visit www.miff2020.wpengine.com or call 305-237-FILM(3456).

About MDCulture
MDCulture is the Cultural Affairs Department of Miami Dade College (MDC). Comprising the Miami Book Fair International, Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival, Tower Theater, the Center for Literature and Theatre, Koubek Center, Freedom Tower, MDC Live Arts and MDC Galleries and Museum of Art + Design. MDCulture is committed to providing its community with the opportunity to come in contact with innovative thinkers, creators and tradition bearers from around the world. With each presentation, MDCulture offers a bridge between cultures and ideas, creating new opportunities for the increasingly diverse population of Miami to come together through shared live arts experiences. For more information, visit www.mdculture.org.

About John S. & James L. Knight Foundation
The John S. and James L. Knight Foundation supports transformational ideas that promote quality journalism, advance media innovation, engage communities and foster the arts. The foundation believes that democracy thrives when people and communities are informed and engaged. For more, visit www.KnightFoundation.org.

About Lexus
Lexus launched in 1989 with two luxury sedans and a commitment to pursue perfection. Since that time, Lexus has expanded its line-up to meet the needs of global luxury customers. Lexus is now going beyond its reputation for high quality vehicles with the integration of innovative technology, emotional exterior and interior designs, and engaging driving dynamics and performance.  With six models incorporating Lexus Hybrid Drive, Lexus is the luxury hybrid leader. Lexus also offers eight F SPORT models and one F  performance model.  In the United States, Lexus vehicles are sold through 235 dealers who are committed to exemplary customer service.

About 88 RUE DU RHONE
88 RUE DU RHONE was founded in 2012 by Pierre and Elie Bernheim, the grandsons of legendary watchmaker Raymond Weil. Seeing a niche in the watch marketplace for Swiss excellence and contemporary watch design all for accessible prices, the co-founders were inspired to create a brand with those specific ideals in mind. 88 RUE DU RHONE is named after Geneva’s most prestigious street. 88 RUE DU RHONE’s Swiss-crafted luxury timepieces are recognizable through their refined and sophisticated design where the number 8, encompassing the ideology of good fortune and infinity, is inherent throughout the entirety of the collection.

About Miami Downtown Development Authority (DDA)
The Mission of the Miami Downtown Development Authority is to grow, strengthen and promote the economic health and vitality of Downtown Miami. As an autonomous agency of the City, the Miami DDA advocates, facilitates plans and executes business development, planning and capital improvements, and marketing and communication strategies. We commit to fulfill our mission collaboratively, ethically and professionally, consistent with the Authority’s public purpose.

About The Related Group
The Related Group was established in 1979, and is America’s leading developer of sophisticated urban living and one of the largest firms in the United States. Since its inception, the privately held company has built and managed more than 85,000 condominium and apartment residences. The Related Group has earned a national reputation for its visionary design and development of luxury condominiums, mixed-use center and affordable rental properties – often in emerging or undiscovered neighborhoods. The firm is one of the largest Hispanic-owned businesses in the United States with a development portfolio of projects worth in excess of $15 billion. TIME Magazine named Mr. Pérez one of top 25 most influential Hispanics in the United States, and has made the cover of Forbes twice. For more information, visit www.relatedgroup.com.

About Terra Group (Park Grove)
Founded in 2001 by Pedro & David Martin, Terra Group is a leading Miami-based real estate development company that has built a reputation for quality one-of-a-kind projects approached with originality and vision. The award-winning company is comprised of hand-picked and highly trained leaders within various industries including architects, builders, developers, lawyers, businessmen and designers. Terra Group’s land acquisitions have been geographically spread throughout South Florida. Projects include: Grove at Grand Bay in Coconut Grove, Glass in Miami Beach, 900 Biscayne Bay, 600 Biscayne (Freedom Tower Site), Quantum on the Bay, Metropolis, Nautica, Las Sevillas and Las Ramblas in West Miami, and Reserve at Doral, Doral Cay, Vintage Estates & Vintage Place in Doral and Atlantic15 in Sunny Isles.  For more information, visit: www.terragroup.com

About ViendoMovies
ViendoMovies is a Pay TV channel that broadcasts exclusive, contemporary and originally produced in Spanish language films, 24 hours a day with no commercial breaks, in a culturally relevant Premium on air look. ViendoMovies is produced in the USA for the US Hispanic and Puerto Rico markets and is part of SOMOSTV LLC. For more information please visit www.viendomovies.com and www.somostv.net.

About TV5MONDE
TV5MONDE, the global French language entertainment network presents TV5MONDE Cinema On Demand, a service that is now available in Miami on XFINITY! Discover the largest selection of award winning French language films, from recent releases to timeless classics many with English subtitles! With your TV5MONDE subscription through XFINITY, start watching the very best of French language films at no extra charge, by going to the On Demand menu today!

About HBO Box Office, Inc.
Home Box Office, Inc. is the premium television programming subsidiary of Time Warner Inc. and the world’s most successful pay TV service, providing the two television services – HBO® and Cinemax® – to approximately 127 million subscribers worldwide.  The services offer the most popular subscription video-on-demand products, HBO On Demand® and Cinemax On Demand® as well as HBO GO® and MAX GO®, HD feeds and multiplex channels.  Internationally, HBO branded television networks, along with the subscription video-on-demand products HBO On Demand and HBO GO, bring HBO services to over 70 countries.  HBO and Cinemax programming is sold into over 150 countries worldwide.

About HBO Latin America
HBO Latin America is the premium television network leader that, in addition to being recognized for the quality and diversity of its original programming, films and documentaries,also provides services with the highest technology in SD and HD formats in more than 24 countries of Latin America and the Caribbean through its channels HBO, HBO2, HBO Signature, HBO Plus, HBO Family, HBO Caribbean, HBO On Demand, HBO GO, MAX, MAX Prime, MAX UP, MAX Caribbean, Cinemax and Cinemax GO.

About byejoe Spirit of China
byejoe is the spirit of China, a modern revolution in Asian-fusion mixology. byejoe is artfully distilled in the East using the finest red sorghum, and skillfully refined in the West using revolutionary patented technology. The result is an alluring ultra premium spirit that’s smooth and sophisticated for contemporary tastes. Enjoy byejoe as you like it – on the rocks, in shots or your favorite fusion cocktails. And get ready to experience the new spirit of China. For more information, visit www.byejoe.com.

Miami Dade College’s Miami International Film Festival Contacts:
Jessica Wade Pfeffer, Jessica Wade Inc., +1 305-804-8424, jessica@jessicawadeinc.com
Margie Sernik, Jessica Wade Inc., +1 305-456-0483, margie@jessicawadeinc.com
Juan C. Mendieta, +1 305-237-7611, jmendiet@mdc.edu
Sue Arrowsmith, +1 305-237-3710, sue.arrowsmith@mdc.edu
Alejandro Rios, +1 305-237-7482, arios1@mdc.edu

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