Tuesday, March 27, 2007

DEAF ROCHESTER FILM FESTIVAL - A SMASHING SUCCESS!





DEAF ROCHESTER FILM FESTIVAL - A SMASHING SUCCESS!

I took this opportunity to come up to Rochester, NY to attend Deaf Rochester Film Festival. It is the second festival that they have hosted. I regretted to miss the first one. This second festival is a smashing success and deserves a 5-Star Rating!



You can look up at their website at DRFF




Friday night, March 23, 2007:





Reception at Rochester Contemporary at 137 East Avenue, Rochester, NY






There was a feature showing of "HEAR AND NOW". It was produced by Irene Tayler Brodsky. She is the daughter of Paul and Sally Taylor of Rochester, NY. It was interesting film to watch. It seems a balanced view of what was going on and that Paul and Sally Taylor made decision to use cochlear implant. They have been deaf for as many as 65 years and decided to try it. The film showed trails and tribulations from start to finish. It is interesting film!







Paul Kiel and Sally Taylor at the reception





Saturday, March 24, 2007:



There were film showings all day and Wayne Betts, Jr. was the keynote speaker. He is with Mosdeux. He is co-founder with Chad W. Taylor of that company. For more info on that company, visit their website at Mosdeux






Wayne Betts Jr. making a presentation






There were other films to watch the rest of day. There were student films in the evening.







Scott Reekers, St. Louis, MO and student at Gallaudet University answering questions from the audience at RDFF.



He has been awarded 2nd Place in Student Film Awards for Gallaudet University Protest Category. HIs film was "ASL Artistry of the 2006 Protest".


CONGRATULATIONS TO SCOTT REEKERS!





There was reception in the evening and it was nice and enjoyable having it at Dyer Arts Center at NTID.
All showings and meetings were at Panara Theatre.



Sunday, March 25, 2007



There were more film showings. The filmmakers had panel discissions and there were awards and brunch. It marked the closing of the festival. It was a resounding success!







Filmmakers discussing and answering questions from the audience.









Jane Norman making a point about using "responsibility" among filmmakers, festival and supporters.








Festival attendees enjoying brunch








KUDOS TO DEAF ROCHESTER FILM FESTIVAL COMMITTEE FOR THEIR HARD WORK!





It was a pleasant experience for me. I have been to other festivals and i find this festival fetching a 5 Star rating for its hospitality, accomodations, food and festival.


=)