SFFS Screen Presents: Wind Man September 12, 2008

Wind Man (Chelovek-veter, Russia 2007), a folk tale–like feature set in post-Soviet Kazakhstan about a shepherd who encounters a mysterious winged stranger, directed by Khuat Akhmetov, will open at SFFS Screen at the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas on Friday, September 12.

Featuring remarkable cinematography, earthy humor and a haunting score, Khuat Akhmetov’s allegorical debut recalls key films from Eastern European cinema. In a small village in remote Kazakhstan, a thunderstorm heralds the arrival of a strange being, withered by age and unable to speak, who falls from the sky. Hiding a pair of wings battered by the storm, the man (who might be an angel) finds shelter in a barn belonging to a man whose son has fallen ill after a mysterious encounter with a veiled stranger. The new visitor cures the boy, but word spreads about his strangeness, and many fearful residents, buoyed by religious superstition, propose a variety of solutions to his presence. Wily businessmen think they can make a quick buck from the novelty. Others just want to be rid of him, by any means necessary. Only the young boy, who recognizes the creature’s true nature, has its best interests at heart. This cross-generational protectiveness of child and elderly “angel,” along with various eccentric portraits of local villagers, form the core of the film. With his beguiling bewinged protagonist and a delightful blend of whimsy and poignancy, Akhmetov has crafted a pointed parable about the dangers of community groupthink. Written by Akhmetov and Odelsha Agishev. Cinematography by Rifkat Ibragimov. With Igor Yasulovich, Kuandyk Kystykbaev, Ayanat Esmagambetova. In Russian with English subtitles. (90 min) Distributed by Cinemavault Releasing International.

At the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas all seats are reserved and an amenities fee is in effect for most shows. Tickets will be available through the Sundance Kabuki box office, at kiosks in the lobby and online at www.sundancecinemas.com with print-at-home capability. San Francisco Film Society members will receive discounted admission to SFFS Screen programs at the box office only (not online or at the lobby kiosks).

Official Website: http://www.sffs.org