SFFS's FIlm Arts Forum Presents Far-Flung Films: On Location Around the World June 14, 2010

Stories about Werner Herzog staving off madness (and Klaus Kinski) in the jungle on the set of Fitzcarraldo, and tales of desperation and determination that marked the production of Apocalypse Now are the stuff of lore. Filmmakers love to exchange stories about the triumphs and tribulations of completing a project, and when a production is based in a faraway locale the stories are so much the better. For every filmmaker that has based a production on distant shores, there are plenty of stories of how luck—both good and bad—shaped the project. For the latest edition of the popular SFFS Film Arts Forum, five well-traveled, seasoned filmmakers reveal their hard-earned wisdom about negotiating the byways of international filmmaking, touching on topics such as knowing where you’re going and what you’re getting into, the importance of hiring a fixer (and avoiding jail time) and how to break the ice with the locals. Moderated by noted Bay Area film writer Michael Fox, the evening will be a compelling mixture of clips, short presentations and a panel discussion.

Following the discussion, filmmakers in the audience are invited to participate in the Laptop Shop, a professional show-and-tell during which attendees screen clips from their current or recent projects on their laptops and solicit feedback from peers. It’s a lively exchange and a unique opportunity to see what’s brewing in the Bay Area film world. Filmmakers wishing to screen their work should bring a short clip, headphones and a well-charged laptop. Participants are particularly encouraged to share projects produced in far-flung locales.

Tickets are $5 year-round for SFFS members and $8 for general admission which are available in advance at sffs.org. Must be 21+ to attend and more information at http://sffs.org/content.aspx?catid=8,70&pageid=1677