2019 GUIDE - Bentonville Film Festival
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2019 GUIDE
BFF 2019
OVERVIEW FILMS
Welcome Letter...................................2 Welcome..............................................45
About BFF..............................................3 Spotlight.......................................46-48
BFF Foundation...................................4 Outdoor.........................................50-51
About Geena Davis Institute..........5 Competition Narrative...........52-55
The Facts...........................................6-7 Competition Documentary...56-59
About Bentonville............................... 8 Competition Family.........................60
About Northwest Arkansas........... 9 Competition Shorts.................62-63
Getting Around............................ 10-11 Competition Episodic......................64
Ticketing......................................... 12-13
AWARDS
5 YEARS IN THE MAKING Best of the Best................................ 67
2015........................................................15
THANK YOU
2016........................................................16
Festival Credits........................ 68-69
AD
2017........................................................ 17
Festival Partners........................70-71
2018........................................................18
Stay Connected................................ 72
2019........................................................19
Disclaimer: All films, titles, and scheduled
HIGHLIGHTS guests were accurate at the time of printing.
Film descriptions included in this program are
intended to give the audience a brief overview.
Special Event......................................21 Visit bentonvillefilmfestival.com or download
our app to read more, view trailers, and stay
Community Events...................22-23 updated on last minute schedule changes.
Meteor Guitar Gallery.............24-25
DISCUSSION EVENTS
Wednesday......................................... 27
Thursday......................................28-30
Friday.............................................31-32
Saturday..............................................33
SCHEDULE
Wednesday................................. 36-37
Thursday......................................38-39
Friday.............................................40-41
Saturday......................................42-43
Bentonville Film Festival 2019 1
Welcome to the
5th Annual Bentonville
effect real change now. To all the
organizations who believe in our
mission, and support us, we are
Film Festival so thankful for your continued
commitment to our mission.
Together, we are cementing
the foundation for young minds
– who more than ever – are
understanding that If They Can
See It, They Can Be It!
If this is your first time at BFF, you’ll
discover that Northwest Arkansas
is an incredible place to live or visit.
From our volunteers to our venues,
local organizations and businesses,
we could not do what we do
without Bentonville, a city home
to some of the world’s brightest Inclusion
is Key
thinkers and doers. In addition to
the innovative minds calling this
city home, NWA is a bastion of arts
and culture. We encourage you to
Co-founded by Academy Award
take a look around!
winner Geena Davis, and Inclusion
Companies CEO Trevor Drinkwater,
Thank you to the creators who
the Bentonville Film Festival is
love their art, and who are working
a one-of-a-kind annual event
We are thrilled to host you in that is sustainable by proving toward a more inclusive silver-
championing inclusion in all forms
beautiful Northwest Arkansas for that inclusion in media is not only screen to share with our audiences.
of media. Year-long inclusion
the 5th annual Bentonville Film valuable but will lead to increased We exist solely to support forward-
initiatives culminate with an
Festival! It’s exciting to watch the commercial success. thinking filmmakers, actors, writers,
annual festival, in partnership with
meaningful role BFF has played in producers, social media influencers,
founding sponsor Walmart and
championing inclusion in all forms With the support of our founding major studios, and advertisers
presenting sponsor Coca-Cola.
of media, and how we can work to and presenting sponsors, who dedicate themselves to
effect change so the content we Walmart and Coca-Cola, we improving gender representation
By targeting impactful inclusion
consume accurately reflects the put together our first festival in and embracing inclusion. We are
initiatives in media, BFF connects
world around us - where women under 4 months, with 60 films and eternally grateful for them. But
engaged entertainment industry
and diverse voices comprise more 13 panels. Since then, BFF has mostly, we are grateful for you
leaders, major corporate
than 50 percent of the population. screened over 400 films, hosted – thank you for supporting the
changemakers and the next wave
more than 60 impactful panels Bentonville Film Festival.
of diverse, independent filmmakers
Five years ago, we co-founded the discussions, and provided four
to amplify content accurately
Bentonville Film Festival because feature films with distribution. So sit back, relax and ENJOY THE
reflecting the world around us.
we saw a need for diverse, inclusive SHOW!
representation in media. Media With each festival, we have seen
has the power to create the engaged entertainment industry Geena Davis, Festival Chair & Co-
leaders, diverse filmmakers, and Founder
future, to change cultural norms.
We shape our value in the world major corporate changemakers
Trevor Drinkwater, Co-Founder
by seeing ourselves reflected connect and collaborate on best
in popular culture. With that in practices to make the world a
mind, we created a platform better, more inclusive place, and
2 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 3
Geena Davis Institute
Promoting Gender Equality
Academy Award winner Geena
Davis is one of Hollywood’s most
respected actors, appearing in
several roles that became
cultural landmarks.
Davis received the Academy
Award for Best Supporting Ac-
tress for her role as the offbeat
dog trainer Muriel Pritchett in
Lawrence Kasdan’s The Accidental
Tourist. She was again nominated
for an Academy Award and Gold-
en Globe for her performance in
Ridley Scott’s Thelma & Louise, in
which she co-starred with Susan
The BFF Foundation Sarandon. Davis went on to re-
Inspiring Young Minds
ceive a Golden Globe nomination
for Best Actress for her portrayal
of baseball phenomenon Dottie
Hinson in A League of Their Own.
The Bentonville Film Festival GDIGM has clearly evidenced the
Foundation, Inc., is a 501(c)(3) media children consume has an Earning the 2006 Golden Globe
non-profit organization focused overwhelming influence in shaping Award for Best Performance by
on promoting underrepresented their view and place in the world. an Actress in a Television Series –
voices in the entertainment Drama, Davis broke ground in her Davis was appointed Special
industry through research, Our vision is to create a seismic portrayal of the first female Pres- Envoy for Women and Girls in ICT
education, and the support of change in how media can inspire ident of the United States in ABC’s for the UN’s International Tele-
inclusive content production young minds to do great things. hit show Commander in Chief. communication Union (ITU). Davis
and distribution. By convening Through partnerships with schools is also an official partner of UN
the media ecosystem – content and community institutions, Davis made her feature film debut Women, working toward their goal
creators, talent and influencers, BFF Foundation educates starring opposite Dustin Hoffman of promoting gender equality and
advertisers and content on the challenging effects of in Tootsie. She went on to star in empowering women worldwide.
distributors - real action can be stereotyping, unconscious bias such films as The Fly, Beetlejuice,
taken to support media accurately and gender imbalance; and Angie, The Long Kiss Goodnight, Geena Davis and festival
reflecting the gender balance and utilizes media-based tools and and Stuart Little. co-founder Trevor Drinkwater
diversity of our world. content to build equality-based founded the Bentonville Film
learning models and content. Davis is the Founder and Chair of Festival in 2015 to champion
In partnership with the our the non-profit Geena Davis Insti- women and minorities in media.
primary research partner, the Media has the power to tute on Gender in Media, which Geena is the Executive Produc-
Geena Davis Institute on Gender influence, inform and educate, engages film and television cre- er for the upcoming theatrical
in Media, the BFF Foundation and the BFF Foundation is ators to dramatically increase the release of the documentary This
supports research proving focused on working with its percentages of female characters Changes Everything.
inclusive media is not only partners to assure media — and reduce gender stereotyping
the right thing to do, it’s also influences positively and fosters — in media made for children 11 Please visit www.seejane.org for
extremely commercially viable. inclusivity for all generations. and under. more information.
4 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 5
If They Can See It,
They Can Be It
If media is more inclusive, it can attract a greater audience. Media
inspires young minds to do great things.
Over an 11 year study of DIRECTORS in film, 6% were Black
and only 3.1% of all directors were Asian.
Across the 11-year sample, there was no meaningful change.
9% 8% 15.5%
Non-White Non-White Non-White
DIRECTOR & LEAD CHARACTER
4% 14% 28%
Women Women Women Of films with a Black director, 81% also had a Black actor attached as
one of the two top-billed talent. This finding suggests that the vast
majority of directing opportunities for Black directors are linked to
the race of the story's leading characters.
DIRECTORS SCREENWRITERS TOP FILM LEADS
Yet moviegoers are more evenly split at 53.1% white and 46.9% non-white.
BLACK 17.3%Women
25%Women
25.6% Women
ASIAN
C-SUITE JOBS BOARD OF DIRECTORS EXECUTIVE CHAIRS
Only 17.3% of prestigious C-suite Focusing on Boards of Directors, 25% Among the executive film teams, only
LATINA OUT OF 1,335 jobs were held by females. Among of seats were filled by women with 2 of the chairs (25.6%) across the
these women, only 4 were from only 3 of these females being major media companies evaluated
Across 11 years and 1,335 movies, 96% of all directors 80 Black female directors, 42 Asian female directors, underrepresented groups. underrepresented. were positions held by women.
were male and 4% were female. This translates to 22.1 and 16 Latina were hired to direct across 100
male directors hired to every 1 female director. top-grossing films of 2018.
41.2%
CAREER SPAN OF MALE DIRECTORS VS FEMALE
Male directors start their careers earlier than female directors and some continue working in older age. 23.9%
20’s 90’s WOMEN IN EXECUTIVE POSITIONS IN HOLLYWOOD
Females filled almost a quarter (23.9%) of the President and Chief positions on executive film teams and roughly
41.2% of all EVPs, SVPs, and VPs. While the latter findings are encouraging, few women are holding the keys to
the most powerful executive positions in Hollywood.
ONE AND DONE
54.3% The “one and done” phenomenon is
far more likely for females than
82.6% DISABILITY IN MEDIA
According to the 2017 American Community Survey conducted by the U.S. Census, 13.3%
Male directors males. Most directors only worked Female directors of non-institutionalized Americans live with a disability. 2.1% (18 characters) people w/
one time across the 11-year sample,
produce only but pronounced gender differences produce only disabilities - TV series regulars on primetime broadcast programming for 2018-2019
one film. emerged. 54.3% of the male one film.
directors only helmed one film
whereas 82.6% of the female
directors did. Statistics gathered from: USC Annenberg Inclusion Initiative brief, Source Hollywood Diversity Report 2018 UCLA College,
Source GLAAD Media Institute Where We Are on TV 2018-2019
6 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 7
Bentonville Has it All
southern hospitality to a whole new
level. From fine dining to farm-to-
table, what Bentonville has on the
menu is not to be missed.
Bentonville is fast becoming one
of the top cycling destinations in
North America. It has more than
140 miles of hard and soft trails
for guests to explore – for begin-
ner and for the more experienced.
Art, food, music, history and Bentonville has something for
forward thinking abound in this everyone to enjoy.
northwest Arkansas town, Ben-
tonville. No longer known as just With so much to see and do in
the corporate headquarters for Bentonville, visitors are encour-
Walmart, this town of 49,000 aged to get out there and see for
boasts a bounty for visitors and themselves what makes this place
residents alike. so special! For more information:
VisitBentonville.com
The Washington Post called Crys-
tal Bridges Museum of American Check the Local Love page on the
Our Little Corner
Art “the most-talked-about new BFF App for special discounts and
museum in the United States in a deals from local businesses exclu-
sive to BFF attendees!
of the Natural State
generation.” Spanning five centu-
ries of American art and 120 acres
of land, Crystal Bridges is truly a
treasure sown into the foothills of
the Ozark Mountains. Welcome to Northwest Arkansas, Catch a concert at the Walmart
one of the fastest growing and AMP in Rogers, and a Northwest
Guests looking to take in more Crystal Bridges Museum most dynamic regions in America! Arkansas Naturals baseball game
history and art can visit locations of American Art Whether you’re here for business in Springdale. Get outdoors at one
like the Walmart Museum and or pleasure, we welcome you to of region’s four state parks, ride
original Walton 5&10, 21c Museum 21c Museum Hotel explore and experience all that’s rapids year-round at the Siloam
Hotel with 12,000 square feet of Amazeum available in the northwest corner Springs Kayak Park or play a round
gallery space, the Museum of Na- of the Natural State. of golf at one of Bella Vista’s eight
tive American History, and the Peel Compton Gardens challenging courses. And don’t
Mansion showcasing the beauty of Each of the region’s cities offers forget to check out Bentonville’s
Museum of Native
a homestead built in 1875. something special and unique. awe-inspiring Crystal Bridges
American History Visit the charming village of Museum of American Art and the
The culinary scene in Bentonville is Peel Mansion Museum Eureka Springs with its Victorian historic Walmart Museum.
on fire boasting a unique array of and Heritage Garden architecture and numerous
menu offerings and Brightwater: shops and galleries. Attend a We hope you’ll enjoy exploring
A Center for the Study of Food. The Walmart Museum Broadway performance at Walton Northwest Arkansas. Visit
Known for “High South Cuisine,” Arts Center in Fayetteville, or www.northwestarkansas.org for
their chefs, including several James 8thStreet Market Call the Hogs at a University of more information or to request an
Beard Award nominees, bring Arkansas Razorbacks game. NWA Visitors Guide.
8 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 9
Getting Around DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL LOCATIONS
BFF SHUTTLE SERVICE TAXI / LIMO SERVICES
A AMC Theatre at the Record C Crystal Bridges E Skylight Cinema
Daily Shuttle Service will run every Ambassador Transportation
20 minutes between Lawrence (479)250-1594 B Sony & Orville Redenbacher’s D Inclusion Town at F Walmart World Room
Plaza, Sheraton Four Points, The Outdoor Theater Compton Gardens
Jim's Express Shuttle
Record and Skylight Cinemas.
(866) 535-0127
CRYSTAL BRIDGES
T.
• Tuesday: Limited run from Pinnacle Car Services MUSEUM OF
NE J ST
C AMERICAN ART
AS
Sheraton to 21c only: 5—11pm (479) 205-0505
NW A ST.
NE
Dynasty Transportation
N. MAIN ST.
• Wednesday-Saturday: 9am–1am
(800) 521-0097
RIDESHARING NWA Taxi NW 5TH
Both Uber and Lyft operate in (479) 636-8294
Bentonville.
Down Under Taxi NW 4TH
(479) 856-2888 D
Abundant Transportation NW 3 RD 3
B LAWRENCE PLAZA
(479) 295-9442
1
AAA Car/Taxi Service
PARKING
(479-644-8469 NW 2ND
There are many free parking lots F NE 2ND
available within walking distance Smilehard Car W. CENTRAL AVE. DOWNTOWN SQUARE
of Bentonville Square. For a map 855-995-7433 A E. CENTRAL AVE.
of locations, go to www.visitben-
tonville.com/plan-your-trip.
S. MAIN ST.
SE 3 RD
SE J ST
E SE 4TH
LIBRARY
SW A ST.
SE 5TH
SE C ST.
1 TICKET OFFICE 3 INFO BOOTH SHUTTLE STOP
LEGEND
SW 8TH 2 VOLUNTEER HUB PUBLIC PARKING
2
SE C ST.
4 POINTS BY
SW 10 TH
STREET SHERATON
SW A STREET
SE 10TH
S
SE WALTON BLVD.
W
AL
TO
N
BL
VD
10 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 11
Tickets & Passes Weekly Pass $275: Right to re-
serve a seat at 20 festival movies,
select panels and discussions.
HOW TO PURCHASE 10 Ticket Bundle $125: Right to re-
serve a seat at 10 festival movies,
There are three easy ways to select panels and discussions.
purchase tickets for BFF’s films,
panel and discussion events and
music series:
PLEASE NOTE
ONLINE All ticketed events require a ticket
Go to www.bentonvillefilmfestival. to get in. A pass holder badge is
com to visit our online event guide not a guarantee of a seat. Ticket
and purchase tickets. holders must arrive at least 15
minutes before show time for ad-
Kasie Yokley & Leslie Zanoff, co-founders of 3W Magazine
BFF APP mission. General admission seat-
ing for ticket holders is available
Download the 2019 BFF App for on first-come, first-served basis.
iOS and Android in your phone’s Pass holders without a ticket may
app store, then purchase tickets wait in the Stand-by line and will
directly in-app. be seated upon availability.
BOX OFFICE BFF Passes are non-refundable.
Visit the BFF Box Office at the 21c Single-event passes may only
Museum Hotel during the festival be exchanged at the festival box
to reserve a seat at 60 festival office based on availability and at
SALE
and purchase your tickets in person.
movies, select panels and dis- the sole discretion of BFF.
Many shows sell out, so advanced cussions and music events. Plus:
purchase is highly recommended. Access to Filmmaker Lounge +1, Some competition films have not
Opening Ceremony +1 and VIP yet been rated by the MPAA. No
Pre-Award Show Party +1. babies in arms. ONE DAY ONLY
PASSES Patron Badge $775:Right to re- MAY 11TH
See website for a full list of pass serve a seat at 40 festival movies,
benefits. select panels and discussions
Love the furniture in the
and music events. Plus: Access to
Foundation Badge $1,575: Right Filmmaker Lounge +1. Filmmaker Lounge? When
9 a.m.—5 p.m. the festival is over it will be
Tuesday, May 7 to available for purchase at a
HUGE discount! Be early for
FOUNDATION PATRON WEEKLY 10 TICKET Saturday, May 11
BADGE BADGE PASS BUNDLE the best prices and selection.
Cost $1,575` $775 $275 $125 Tickets may also be Credit Cards will be accepted.
# of Seats 60 40 20 10 purchased at the door ELKINS DESIGN
Filmmaker of the venue if seats 201 S. Main Street, Bentonville
Lounge Access +1 are available. Saturday May 11th, 2:30—4:30 p.m.
Opening
Ceremony +1 Tickets Call Center:
VIP Pre-Award
877-840-0457
Ceremony +1
12 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 13
MAY 5-9, 2015
2015 COMPETITION
WINNERS
Film Submissions: 242
Jury Award
Jack of the Red Hearts
Festival Slogan: Championing Women
and Diversity in Film
Hashtags: #BeourBFF
Attendees: 37,000*
Best Documentary
In My Father's House
Local economy: generated more than $1
million in business for the local economy.**
FILM COMPETITION
KEY STATS Best Family Feature
A Brilliant Young Mind
46 FILMS IN COMPETITION
• 20 documentary films
• 26 feature films
DIRECTOR BREAKDOWN OF
FILMS IN COMPETITION Highest Diversity
Meet the Patels
• Female 53%
• Male 47%
• Minority 20%
FILMMAKER/DIRECTOR STATS Best Ensemble
60 films screened: 46 competition Big Stone Gap
and 15 showcase
13 PANELS
EVENTS
Remembering the Artist: Robert Best Protagonist
DeNiro Stephanie Linus in Dry
Academy Award® winner Geena Davis and Inclusion
Companies CEO Trevor Drinkwater, co-founded the “A League of Their Own” Game with
Rosie O’Donnell & Geena Davis
Bentonville Film Festival five years ago when they saw
* G regg Kilday in “Bentonville Film Festival Award-Winners
a need for diversity and inclusion in media. Since then, to Play AMC Theatres Around the Country,” Hollywood
Reporter, Sept. 2015.
Audience Award
BFF screened over 400 inclusive films, more than 60 ** According to article “Bentonville Film Festival to return in
May 2016,” NWA Democrat-Gazette, Aug. 28, 2015 Thao's Library
impactful panels, and hundreds of powerful discussions
on diversity in film.
14 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 15
MAY 3-8, 2016 MAY 2-7, 2017
2016 COMPETITION 2017 COMPETITION
WINNERS WINNERS
Best of the Fest
No Greater Love
Film Submissions: 245 Film Submissions: 816
Best Audience Documentary
Festival Slogan: Championing Women Festival Slogan: Championing Woman on Fire
and Diverse Voices in Media inclusion in all forms of media
Hashtags: #BeourBFF Best Narrative Hashtags: #MyBFFStory
It Had to Be You
Attendees: 63,000* Attendees: 75,000*
Best Audience Narrative
Parker’s Anchor
FILM COMPETITION FILM COMPETITION
KEY STATS KEY STATS
Best Documentary
33 FILMS IN COMPETITION A Journey of a Thousand Miles: 44 FILMS IN COMPETITION
Peacekeepers
• 16 documentary films • 14 documentary films
• 19 feature films Best Jury Ensemble
• 17 feature films Let Me Go
• 17 shorts
DIRECTOR BREAKDOWN OF • 4 episodic
FILMS IN COMPETITION
DIRECTOR BREAKDOWN OF
• Female 44% FILMS IN COMPETITION
Audience Award
• Male 56% Floyd Norman: An Animated Life
• Female 57% Best Jury Narrative
• Minority 18% • Male 43% The Sun at Midnight
• Minority 30%
FILMMAKER/DIRECTOR STATS
53 films screened: 13 competition, FILMMAKER/DIRECTOR STATS
19 showcase and 1 work in progress 61 films screened: 33 competition, 18
Best Family Film
Lost & Found showcase, and 10 spotlight Best Jury Documentary
12 PANELS Served Like A Girl
EVENTS 17 PANELS Best Audience Short
EVENTS Deep Storage
“A League of Their Own” Game with
Best Audience Episodic
Rosie O’Donnell & Geena Davis “A League of Their Own” Game with Lost and Found
Rosie O’Donnell & Geena Davis Best Spotlight Feature
Best Ensemble A Happening of Monumental
* Shawnya Meyers in “Second Bentonville Film Festival Sees Fair Market Value * April Wallace in “Already in the Top-After Three Years In,” Proportions
Huge Increase in Attendance,” KFSM, May 16, 2016. NWA Democrat-Gazette, May 18, 2018.
Best Family Film
Saving Sally
Man in the Mirror Award
Charles Mully
Whole Human Award
Paula
The Dernsie Highest Diversity Score Best of the Fest Diversity Award
Alice Coulthard – Josephine Tested Blood Road Looking at the Stars
16 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 17MAY 1-6, 2018
2018 COMPETITION
WINNERS
Film Submissions: 798*
Best Narrative Film
Festival Slogan: Championing Lez Bomb
inclusion in all forms of media
Hashtags: #DreamBigBFF
Attendees: 85,000*
Best Documentary Film
Emanuel
FILM COMPETITION
KEY STATS MAY 7-11, 2019 FILM COMPETITION
89 FILMS IN COMPETITION KEY STATS
• 21 documentary films 65 FILMS IN COMPETITION
• 22 feature films Best Audience Narrative • 16 Narratives
Miss Arizona
• 33 shorts • 15 documentary
• 13 episodic
• 23 Shorts
DIRECTOR BREAKDOWN OF
• 5 Episodic
FILMS IN COMPETITION
• 6 Family
• Female 65% Best Audience Documentary
• Male 35% Love Always Mom • 9 Spotlight Films
• Minority 28% FILMMAKER/DIRECTOR STATS
Film Submissions: 1025 81% Female Directors
FILMMAKER/DIRECTOR STATS
68% POC director or cast
137 films screened: 89 competition Festival Slogan: Championing
38% LGBTQ director or cast
(10 world premieres) 10 legacy and 38 Best of the Fest inclusion in all forms of media
showcase F.R.E.D.I. 15 PANELS
Hashtags: #FastForwardBFF and
20 PANELS Best Short Film #BFF2019
The Brownlist
EVENTS
Best Episodic Award
Legacy Tribute to Meg Ryan Beast
YEAR OVER YEAR TOTALS
Best Audience Short
Laboratory Conditions 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 Total
Best Audience Episodic Film Submissions 242 245 816 798 1025 3126
Brooklynificaiton
See It, Be It Award Winner Compeition Films 46 33 44 89 65 277
Natalie Morales
* About 700 films were submitted this year (2018), which is
100 more than 2017 and more than double the submissions
Total Films 60 53 61 137 97 408
of 2016. per April Wallace in “Already in the Top-After
Legacy Award Winner
Three Years In,” NWA Democrat-Gazette, May 18, 2018. Meg Ryan Panels 13 12 17 20 15 77
Winners 7 7 13 11 11 49
18 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 19SAMSUNG CREATE BLOOD ROAD
SHORT FILM Saturday, May 11th, 10—11 a.m.
COMPETITION @ Skylight 6
Wednesday, May 8th, 3—5 p.m. @ Meteor Experience this special screening
of BFF 2017 Alumni Blood Road,
Student teams create 60-second with Rebecca Rusch in attendance.
productions in 3 days, all powered
by Samsung and BFF. The goal?
To encourage Arkansas students
to create inclusive content!
HOW TO BE
A KID CRITIC
Saturday, May 11, 10-11 a.m. @ Skylight 5
SLAY LIKE A MOTHER:
WITH AUTHOR Our children are consuming an
KATHERINE WINTSCH enormous amount of media, often
filled with conflicting information.
Thursday, May 9th, 7:30—9:30 a.m. In this workshop, kids who’ve seen
@ Record the movie “Coco” will learn what it
means to evaluate media critically
Katherine Wintsch, founder of The through discussion and hands-
Mom Complex and author of "Slay on activities based on Common
Like a Mother” will give a keynote Sense’s unique rating system.
followed by book signing with 300
free books! Presented by Johnson
& Johnson Consumer Brands, in FORREST GUMP:
partnership with the Northwest
Arkansas Network of Executive 25TH ANNIVERSARY
Women. SCREENING
Saturday, May 11, 4-6 p.m. @ Skylight 3
BREAKTHROUGHS: See the 25th Anniversary
A FASHION EVENT screening of the American Classic,
CELEBRATING Forrest Gump, at BFF 2019!
WOMEN OF COLOR
Thursday, May 9th, 3—6 p.m. @ Meteor
BFF in partnership with the
Arkansas Fashion Council host
a fashion event showcasing the
BFF offers a free
original work of designer Linda shuttle service to
Rowe Thomas, followed by a panel festival attendees.
discussion on the impact of fash-
ion and film with the designer and See page 10 for details.
Don’t miss these festival highlights and other guest panelists.
special events. More information can be
found on the BFF website and app. Bentonville Film Festival 2019 21INCLUSION TOWN UNILEVER SOCIAL
Thursday through Friday, 1-7 p.m., MEDIA LOUNGE
Saturday 11-8 p.m. @ Inclusion Town
Wednesday through Friday, 11 a.m.-
8 p.m. @ Record
Presented by Anderson Mer-
chandisers, Inclusion Town is the Help us finish the Mosaic! Discover
must-stop spot for outdoor fun at the final image by taking a photo
BFF 2019. Glam products, food around the fest, tag #showu-
samples, puppy adoptions – Inclu- satBFF and stop by the hashtag
sion Town has it all! printers to put your photo on the
mosaic. Tag as many times as you
want. Stop by Record North from
SONY & ORVILLE 11-8pm to check on the progress
REDENBACHER’S at Unilever Social Media Lounge.
OUTDOOR THEATER
Thursday through Friday, 11:30 a.m.-8 PUPPY VILLAGE
p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. @
Lawrence Park (Check pages 48-49 Thursday through Friday, 1-7 p.m.,
for films and times) Saturday, 11-8 p.m. @ Inclusion Town
Experience movies in the great Need a new friend? MARS
outdoors! FREE films for the whole Petcare will be sponsoring dog
family play all week at the Sony adoptions at their Better Cities for
& Orville Redenbacher’s outdoor Pets booth. Help break our goal of
movie theatre. 67 adoptions from 2018! WOMEN SHRED The Check Your Blind Spots Tour
is coming to BFF! Hop on the bus
Wednesday 3—7:30 p.m., Thursday and walk through a series of expe-
1—6:30 p.m., Friday 1—8:15 p.m., riences designed to raise aware-
Saturday 9—5 p.m. @ Inclusion Town
ness around unconscious bias and
how everyone can change behav-
Hit the Oz trails at BFF with
iors in their everyday lives.
World Champion cyclists Caro-
line Buchanan, Anneke Beerten,
Lael Wilcox and more at Women
Shred, the first-ever bike festival PIONEERS: FIRST
focused on women, and female WOMEN FILMMAKERS
cyclist representation in film at 21C Hours of Operation @ 21c Museum
Inclusion Town, May 8-11! Their + Hotel
goal? Get more women on the
epic Oz trails of NWA! This project presents the legacy of
America’s often-forgotten pioneer
female filmmakers through video
CHECK YOUR BLIND documentary and commemora-
SPOTS TOUR tive display.
Thursday through Friday, 1-7 p.m.,
Saturday, 11-8 p.m. @ Inclusion Town
22 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 23THE METEOR LINEUP On Wednesday night of the
festival, Drummerboyinfinity will
After an amazing day of panels bring their amazing presentation
and films, unwind every night at of the Fabulous Freddie Mercury
The Meteor Guitar gallery. The Tribute *LIVE*!
week lineup includes jazz-rock, DJs
and dance parties, gritty blues and MAY THE FUNK BE WITH US
a Freddie Mercury tribute. Grab Thursday, doors open at 8 p.m. show
your tickets now at www.mete- starts at 9 p.m.
orguitargallery.com or head to the
BFF Website for more detail. DJ Spinoff and dance party
with live street art. What’s not
MARBIN to love? Featuring DJ Jon Doh,
Tuesday, doors open at 7 p.m., show DJ Swift720, Jae Da Selecta
starts at 8 p.m. and more.
Catch progressive jazz-rock band KALO WITH LEAH & THE MOJO
MARBIN, based in Chicago. With DOCTORS
a do-it-yourself approach, Marbin Friday, doors open at 8 p.m. show
started touring extensively in starts at 9 p.m.
2011, bringing their original instru-
mental music to every part of the Awesome night of gritty blues with
United States. local favorites Leah & the Mojo
Doctors with KALO. Finish the night
FABULOUS FREDDIE MERCURY off with dancing to local DJs.
TRIBUTE
Wednesday, doors open at 8 p.m. For more information and tickets
show starts at 9 p.m. visit www.meteorguitargallery.com
Built in 1905, the current Meteor 1985, the historic building closed
Guitar Gallery building hosted its doors. Almost 30 years later in
several businesses in the early 2014, the Meteor Guitar Gallery
years, including a Ford repair re-opened and hosted its first
shop. In 1927, the building was concert in the spring of 2015.
remodeled and reopened as the
Meteor Theater and hosted silent Since the beginning of BFF, The
movies and vaudeville plays. The Meteor has been an amazing
silent movie “Venus of Venice” festival partner, and this year is
made a grand opening splash on no exception. Be sure to check out
August 1, 1927, with over 13,000 this historic building during your
in attendance. Meteor Theater time at the Bentonville Film Fes-
kept with the times, and with the tival. Film screenings and special
addition of sound in 1939, the festival events are held during the
theater was renamed the Plaza day, with a stellar lineup of talent
Theater. With the final showing of each night.
“The Rose” at the Plaza Theater in
24 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 25ASPIRE TV: of his own. After sudden tragedy
strikes, he ultimately accepts the
LOOKING THROUGH legacy he was given.
A BROWN LENS
Panel Discussion, Short Film,
Followed by Q&A BREAK IT TO MAKE
May 8, 2-3 p.m., @ Record IT BETTER
Hosted by Gender Fair
This panel will discuss the creative
May 8, 2:30-3:30 p.m., @ 21c Gallery
structure and thought that goes Main Stage
into telling a unique story through
Black culture. Panelists will dis- When media images break
cuss what their “why” is for the stereotypes, there’s a profound
films they’ve produced and what impact on cultural norms. How
methods they utilized to create an can we wield the power of images
emotional connection to the au- to open minds, touch hearts and
dience. They will also discuss the create a world that embraces
avenues of funding, casting and gender equality? Join GENDER
promoting their films and what FAIR and leaders from some
their tactics were in making the of the world’s most prominent
films a reality. brands including Johnson & John-
son, Kellogg’s, Mars, and Unilever
Short Film: Tre for a panel discussion and Q&A on
Desperate for his own identity, how their brand images are spe-
8-year old Tre sets out to reclaim cifically chosen to break stereo-
his sense of self by dropping his types and encourage inclusion.
inherited name and choosing one
Film industry leaders, artists and the
THE UNIVERSE IS EXPANDING
JUNE 14
brightest minds from forward-thinking
organizations discuss innovative solutions BE SURE TO VISIT THE | MIB THEATER
MAY 8 –11 AT LAWRENCE PLAZA.
to the problems around inclusion and
representation that face our world today. BentonvilleMIB4 - BFF 2019
Film Festival AD - 1
2019
ROUND 01 | 04.09.19 | MIB4_BFF_2019_AD_4X2375_R1.INDD | 466241_129 | CLIENT: DOUGLAS MOMII | AT
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6922 HOLLYWOOD BLVD, 12TH FL
HOLLYWOOD, CA 90028 CONCEPT MAY CONTAIN ELEMENTS THAT HAVE NOT BEEN CLEARED FOR ANY TYPE OF DISTRIBUTION, REPRODUCTION, LICENSING OR USE.Creating a better world, together.
TRUSTED INFLUENCE: LET'S MAKE A DEAL
CONNECTING TO May 9, 2019 11 a.m.—12 p.m. @ 21c Main
DIVERSE SHOPPERS Gallery Stage, Sponsored by MARS
IN MORE MEANINGFUL
Although opportunities have
WAYS WITH BRANDED improved in the last 40 years,
EXPERIENCES women and minority filmmakers
May 9, 2019, 9—10 a.m. @ 21c Main
still struggle to secure funding and
Gallery Stage, Sponsored by Viacom + distribution. This panel will discuss
Ad Solutions how filmmakers can “make the
argument,” leverage the realities of
A panel of experts provide an in- emerging technology including the
sightful case study demonstrating ever evolving landscape of release
the power of influencer marketing strategies, smart business, brand-
to connect with diverse shoppers ing, and marketing models to so-
in a deeper, more meaningful way. lidify that pitch to get their stories
By going beyond platforms like told and in front of an audience.
Instagram, YouTube, and
Facebook, marketers can create
inclusive live experiences where
consumers interact with the talent
and the brand in an actual retail
environment, driving a deeper
value for the brand and retailer.
Unilever is a proud supporter of the
Bentonville Film Festival
IMPROVING HEALTH REDUCING ENHANCING
AND WELL-BEING ENVIRONMENTAL LIVELIHOODS
IMPACTS
Learn more at unilever.com/sustainable-living
28 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 ©2019 Unilever WMT19064INDIGENOUS STORIES SHE FOR SHE: POWER
May 10, 2019, 10—11 a.m. @ 21c Main OF THE PACK
Gallery Stage
May 10, 2019, 5—6 p.m. @21c Museum
This panel will discuss and Join trailblazers Geena Davis and
highlight the inclusion of Indig- Noelle Stevenson in a conversa-
enous stories in film, and the tion about the power of repre-
importance of having indigenous sentation and demonstrating to
people involved in the creative women and girls what they can be
process. The panel will feature and who they can become.
industry professionals and film
talent that work behind and in
front of the camera
IF SHE CAN SEE IT,
SHE CAN BE IT
DREAMS: UNSUNG May 10, 2019, 11 a.m.—12 p.m. @ 21c Main
HEROES OF AFRICAN Gallery Stage, Sponsored by MARS
AMERICAN HISTORY As women represent 51% of the
May 10th, 2019, 2—3 p.m.@ Record population and 52% of movie goers,
North. we have a social and business imper-
ative to create media that values the
Five Alabama high school students stories of intersectional women. The
explore the spaces hidden in their
FROM THE DIRECTOR'S in media revealed that over the
state, where African-Americans
Geena Benchmark report which an-
past decade of the top 100 largest alyzed the top 100 Family Films over
CHAIR: DEVELOPMENT grossing family films in the U.S, struggled and pierced the inevita- a decade showed that females led
TO FINANCE less than 1% of all lead characters ble to build society as we know it films generated 55% more at the box
were LGBTQ. This panel will look today. office than similar male led films.
May 9, 2019, 10—11 a.m., @ 21c Main
Gallery Stage at the presence of LGBTQ+ char-
acters and stories on screen, as Short screening and discussion This panel will showcase best
well as what the future now looks moderated by Doug McMillon practices from business leaders
In the era of #Metoo and a call for
like for gay, lesbian, and trans (Walmart, CEO); with Sheldon who have successfully created
more female voices, are things
filmmakers and their projects. Candis, Grace Brown, Zadren Hill, female driven content.
easier for female creators and
Lisa Hobdy, Joseph Katz, and
female led films?
Julius Shanks II.
FOUNDED BY WOMEN
QUEER & HERE May 9, 2019, 5—6 p.m. @ 21c Main
TO STAY Gallery Stage, Sponsored by L'Oreal/
Maybeline
May 9, 2019 1—2 p.m. @ 21c Main
Gallery Stage, Sponsored by MARS Join us for a casual happy hour
conversation with 4 incredible
About 3.4% of our American women founders. Hear their stories
population identify as LGBTQ. on how they overcame obstacles on
However, a recent study from the their way to success. Be prepared
Geena Davis Institute on Gender to relax, laugh and be inspired!
30 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 31FIT-OPS nity through health and fitness,
to provide new purpose, and to
May 11, 2019, 11 a.m.—1 p.m. @ 21c Main reinvent the story of ‘giving back’
Gallery Stage, Sponsored by Performix by truly paying it forward to
those who were willing to pay the
John Cena will share his mission ultimate price for our freedom.
to enrich our veterans through At FitOps camp, veterans once
fitness, and enrich our society again apply their leadership,
through our veterans, by building physicality and accountabili-
a fitness coalition, in the city of ty to take part in world-class,
Bentonville, Arkansas in partner- unmatched training to become
ship with the FitOps Foundation. elite personal trainers. John
Cena and the FitOps Foundation
Powered by Performix, which believe in supporting our veteran
inspires everyone, everywhere community, wherever, and how-
to be ‘always perfecting,’ the ever, we can, and are excited to
FitOps Foundation was created pioneer this amazing program.
THE NEW MR. MOM: ABLE & WILLING to impact our veteran commu-
REDEFINING May 10, 2019, 3—4 p.m. @ 21c Main
TRADITIONAL Gallery Stage, Sponsored by MARS
FAMILY ROLES
About 18.7% people in the U.S.
May 10, 2019, 1—2 p.m. @ 21c Main have a disability and are one of
Gallery Stage our largest minorities. Howev-
er, the Geena Benchmark study
This powerhouse panel will fea- which analyzed a decade of films
ture female talent from Vudu’s from the Top 100 Largest Gross-
first original series, “Mr. Mom”. ing Family Films found that less
The series (a modern take on the than 1% of all lead characters
beloved classic ‘80s film) follows were characters with a disability.
a mom who is re-entering the How do we, as filmmakers, broad-
workforce and a dad who decides en our creative landscape when
it’s his turn to stay at home with conceiving characters or casting
the kids. The panel will discuss to more effectively add the dif-
how conventional family roles are ferently abled to that mix – going
continually being re-defined by beyond gender and race to those
both moms and dads, how fami- with disabilities as well? How do
lies today must band together as force ourselves out of what may
a team to make it all work, and be a comfort zone to consider
the continued effort to combat someone we hadn’t initially envi-
dated stereotypes in content and sioned in the role? And, what are
media. How have things changed the rewards for doing so?
for families since the 1980s, and
how is inclusive media like Vudu’s
“Mr. Mom” helping to shift societal
expectations on what makes up
today’s family?
32 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 3334 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 35
Wednesday, May 8 Sony & Orville
Redenbacher’s Walmart
Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight 21c Main Outdoor Museum World
Theatre 1 Theatre 2 Theatre 3 Theatre 4 Theatre 5 Theatre 6 Gallery Stage Record North Theatre Room Meteor
8 a.m.
9 a.m.
SOLACE AVENGERS THE
10 a.m.
OLYMPIC PAGE 52 INFINITY AVENGERS
DREAMS WARS
PAGE 54
OPHELIA BE NATURAL:
11 a.m.
PAGE 47 THE UNTOLD
STORY OF
ALICE GUY-
12 p.m.
THE SHORT BLANCHE
HISTORY OF WE ARE THE WELL PAHOKEE PAGE 48 CAPTAIN
THE LONG RADICAL GROOMED PAGE 57 AMERICA:
QUEEN OF
1 p.m.
ROAD MONARCHS PAGE 57 CIVIL WAR
PAGE 57 PARADIS
CAPTAIN PAGE 52
PAGE 58
MARVEL
ASPIRE TV:
2 p.m.
LOOKING
ALWAYS IN BREAK IT TO THROUGH A
SEASON MAKE IT BETTER BROWN LENS
THIRST GHOSTBUSTERS SAMSUNG
3 p.m.
PAGE 58 PAGE 27 PAGE 27
FOR (1984) CREATE
JUSTICE PAGE 50 STUNT- PAGE 21
PAGE 59 WOMEN:
4 p.m.
THE UNTOLD
HOLLYWOOD
THIS
STORY
CHANGES
THE PAGE 56
5 p.m.
EVERYTHING
WORLD WE PAGE 46
MAKE GO BACK GHOSTBUSTERS
PAGE 60 TO CHINA (2016)
CARE TO
6 p.m.
PAGE 52 PAGE 50
LAUGH
PAGE 58
AVENGERS: WILD ROSE
7 p.m.
ENDGAME PAGE 47
FABULOUS
8 p.m.
FREDDIE
MERCURY
TRIBUTE
9 p.m.
PAGE 25
10 p.m.
COMPETITION FILM SPOTLIGHT FILM NON-COMPETITION Dates and times are subject to change. Please reference the website at bentonvillefilmfestival.com or the BFF
FILMS App for up-to-date information.
DISCUSSION EVENT SPECIAL EVENT
36 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 37Thursday, May 9 Sony & Orville
Redenbacher’s Walmart
Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight 21c Main The Record Outdoor Museum World
Theatre 1 Theatre 2 Theatre 3 Theatre 4 Theatre 5 Theatre 6 Gallery Stage North Theatre Room Meteor
SLAY LIKE A
8 a.m.
MOTHER 7:30-9:30
PAGE 21
TRUSTED
9 a.m.
INFLUENCE
PAGE 28
COLEWELL THE SHORT BLACK FROM THE
10 a.m.
PAGE 54 HISTORY PANTHER DIRECTOR'S WE ARE THE
OLYMPIA OF THE CHAIR PAGE 30 RADICAL
PAGE 53 LONG MONARCHS
LET'S MAKE A WE HAVE SHORTS
11 a.m.
ROAD PAGE 57
DEAL ALWAYS BLOCK 1
PAGE 52
PAGE 28 LIVED IN PAGE 62
THE CASTLE
12 p.m.
PAGE 46
QUEEN OF THE
PARADIS PETER PUSHOUTS
SIMPLE PAHOKEE QUEER & RABBIT
1 p.m.
PAGE 58 PAGE 58
WEDDING PAGE 57 GO BACK HERE TO STAY PAGE 50
PAGE 53 TO CHINA PAGE 30 EMMETT
PAGE 52 PAGE 60
2 p.m.
THIRST FOR
JUSTICE
ANGRY BIRDS PAGE 59 BREAK-
3 p.m.
PAGE 51 THROUGHS:
INTERNA- WELL A FASHION
TIONAL GROOMED EVENT
BRIAN TO THE STARS
4 p.m.
FALLS PAGE 57 CELEBRATING
BANKS PAGE 53 PAGE 48
WOMEN OF
PAGE 46
COLOR
FOUNDED BY CHARLIES YELLOW PAGE 21
5 p.m.
WOMEN ANGELS ROSE
PAGE 30 PAGE 50 PAGE 54
BEING THE
6 p.m.
FRANK GARDEN
PAGE 55 LEFT
BEHIND
SPIDER-MAN
7 p.m.
PAGE 53
HOMECOMING
PAGE 50 SAME GOD
PAGE 56
MAY THE
8 p.m.
FUNK BE
VANDAL SAINT WITH US
PAGE 55 FRANCIS PAGE 25
9 p.m.
PAGE 55
10 p.m.
COMPETITION FILM SPOTLIGHT FILM NON-COMPETITION Dates and times are subject to change. Please reference the website at bentonvillefilmfestival.com or the BFF
FILMS App for up-to-date information.
DISCUSSION EVENT SPECIAL EVENT
38 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 39Friday, May 10 Sony & Orville
Redenbacher’s Walmart
Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight 21c Main The Record Outdoor Museum World
Theatre 1 Theatre 2 Theatre 3 Theatre 4 Theatre 5 Theatre 6 Gallery Stage North Theatre Room Meteor
9 a.m.
THOR: TURNOVER INDIGENOUS ALWAYS IN
10 a.m.
RAGNAROK THE PAGE 60 STORIES SEASON
PUSHOUTS PAGE 31 PAGE 58
PAGE 58
IF SHE CAN SEE YELLOW
11 a.m.
IT, SHE CAN BE IT ROSE
PAGE 31 PAGE 54
12 p.m.
SIN MIEDO OLYMPIA SAME GOD EPISODICS
A LA PAGE 53 COLEWELL PAGE 56 BLOCK 1
PAGE 54 THE NEW MR THE AMAZING OUR
1 p.m.
VERDAD PAGE 64
PAGE 48 MOM SPIDER-MAN QUINCEAÑERA
PAGE 32 PAGE 51 PAGE 56 KATE NASH:
UNDERES-
DREAMS
2 p.m.
TIMATE THE
PAGE 31 GIRL
PAGE 56
SIMPLE ABLE & BAMBOO AND
3 p.m.
WEDDING ANY ONE WILLING BARBED WIRE
PAGE 53 OF US PAGE 32 PAGE 57
PAGE 59 THE
ONCE CAROL OF SHALLOWS SHORTS
4 p.m.
UPON A THE BELLS PAGE 51 BLOCK 2
RIVER PAGE 48 PAGE 63
PAGE 54
SHE FOR SHE
5 p.m.
PAGE 31
THE
INTERNA- GRIZZLIES
TIONAL
6 p.m.
PAGE 55
FALLS
PAGE 53
LONGSHOT JUMANJI:
7 p.m.
WELCOME TO
THE JUNGLE
PAGE 51
THE VANDAL KALO WITH
8 p.m.
GARDEN SAINT PAGE 55 LEAH &
LEFT FRANCIS THE MOJO
BEHIND PAGE 55 DOCTORS
9 p.m.
PAGE 53 PAGE 25
10 p.m.
COMPETITION FILM SPOTLIGHT FILM NON-COMPETITION Dates and times are subject to change. Please reference the website at bentonvillefilmfestival.com or the BFF
FILMS App for up-to-date information.
DISCUSSION EVENT SPECIAL EVENT
40 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 41Saturday, May 11 Sony & Orville
Filmmaker Redenbacher’s Walmart
Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight Skylight 21c Main Lounge @ Outdoor Museum World
Theatre 1 Theatre 2 Theatre 3 Theatre 4 Theatre 5 Theatre 6 Gallery Stage Elkins Design Theatre Room Meteor
9 a.m.
SWEET ONCE HOW TO BE REVIVAL!
10 a.m.
INSPIRATION UPON A OUR A KID CRITIC ANY ONE STUNT- PAGE 60
PAGE 60 RIVER QUINCEAÑERA PAGE 21 OF US WOMEN:
PAGE 54 PAGE 56 PAGE 59 THE UNTOLD
FITOPS A DOG'S WAY
11 a.m.
HOLLYWOOD
PAGE 33 HOME
STORY
PAGE 51
PAGE 56
12 p.m.
FREAK BEING KATE NASH:
SHOW FRANK BAMBOO BLOOD EPISODIC UNDERES-
AND THE ROAD THE EMOJI BLOCK 2
1 p.m.
PAGE 46 PAGE 55 TIMATE THE
BARBED GRIZZLIES PAGE 21 MOVIE PAGE 64 GIRL
WIRE PAGE 55 PAGE 51 PAGE 56
PAGE 57
2 p.m.
WEST ELM
EVENT
HOTEL TRAN-
3 p.m.
PAGE 13
SYLVANIA 3 SHORTS
PAGE 51 BLOCK 3
PAGE 63
FORREST
4 p.m.
GUMP
PAGE 21
SPIDER-MAN:
5 p.m.
INTO THE
SPIDERVERSE
PAGE 51
6 p.m.
7 p.m.
8 p.m.
9 p.m.
10 p.m.
COMPETITION FILM SPOTLIGHT FILM NON-COMPETITION Dates and times are subject to change. Please reference the website at bentonvillefilmfestival.com or the BFF
FILMS App for up-to-date information.
DISCUSSION EVENT SPECIAL EVENT
42 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 43Photograph by Justin Froning
Let’s Make A Change
WELCOME FROM WENDY GUERRERO
PRESIDENT OF PROGRAMMING
Take a look around! The world we of inclusion to a wider audience.
live in is a diverse and multi-fac-
eted place, and we look to mirror The BFF programming team
that atmosphere with a lineup of reviewed hundreds of submissions
films and discussions from typically this year, proving more and more
underrepresented storytellers inclusive content is out there. It’s
and voices. We strive to showcase wonderful to welcome new and
balance and parity including gen- returning voices to the 5th install-
der, ethnicity, sexual orientation, ment of BFF, growing our extend-
disability, age, social responsibility, ed family of creators across the
and women’s empowerment. globe. Highlighting their works and
initiatives in northwest Arkansas is
BFF is working towards this kind an honor, and we thank the Ben-
of inclusion being the norm - tonville community for welcoming
both in front of and behind the them and supporting our mission.
camera - rather than simply an
initiative, and striving to make the At BFF, we want to recognize
world we see on screen factually diversity and inclusion through
represent the one we live in. BFF the power of media, but not just
is in a position to connect content show it and talk about it. We want
distributors with diverse voices. to create actionable items we can
We embrace this unique opportu- all walk away with to facilitate
nity wholeheartedly, intentionally change. It doesn’t stop here - we
seeking projects with greater are committed to championing
commercial viability casting a inclusion, and we thank you for
wider net to accelerate the notion joining the charge.
Bentonville Film Festival 2019 45school, and decides to fight back
on behalf of all the misunderstood
freaks of the world.
Featuring bold works from festival favorites
from around the U.S. Catch early screenings of
an indie favorites months before anyone else.
OPHELIA
Director: Claire McCarthy
USA, Great Britain/107 mins/All
Ages
Wednesday May 8th, 11 a.m.—1 p.m.
@ Skylight 1
THIS CHANGES WE HAVE ALWAYS
EVERYTHING LIVED IN THE CASTLE The classic Shakespearean trag-
Director: Tom Donahue Director: Stacie Passon edy is reimagined through a bold
USA/95 mins/All Ages Ireland/98 mins/17+ and new perspective, featuring
Wednesday May 8th, 4:30—6:30 p.m. Thursday May 9th, 11 a.m.—1 p.m.
Daisy Ridley (Star Wars) as the ti-
@ Record North @ Record North tle character. Naomi Watts & Clive
Owen co-star.
THIS CHANGES EVERYTHING Two sisters live in isolation with
takes an incisive look into the their deranged uncle following
history, empirical evidence, and the deaths of the rest of their
systemic forces that foster gender family. When a cousin comes to
discrimination and thus reinforce visit, family secrets and scandals
disparity in our culture. unravel. Based on the beloved
Shirley Jackson novel.
WILD ROSE
Director: Tom Harper
USA/100 mins/13+
Wednesday May 8th, 7—9 p.m.
@ Record North
BRIAN BANKS A musician from Glasgow dreams
of becoming a Nashville star.
Director: Tom Shadyck FREAK SHOW
USA/99 mins/13+ Director: Trudie Styler
Thursday May 9th, 4—6 p.m. @ Skylight 1 USA/91 mins/13+
Saturday May 11th, 12:30—3 p.m.
An All-American football player’s @ Skylight 1
dreams to play in the NFL are
halted when he is wrongly convict- The story of Billy Bloom, a confi-
ed and sent to prison. Years later, dent and eccentric teenager who
he fights to clear his name within faces intolerance and persecu-
an unjust system. tion at his ultra conservative high
46 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 47Director: Pamela B. Green
USA, United Kingdom, France, Bel-
gium, Sweden/103 mins/All Ages
Wednesday May 8th, 11 a.m.—1 p.m.
@ Record North
When Alice Guy-Blaché made her
first film in 1896 Paris, she was
TO THE STARS not only the first female filmmak-
Director: Martha Stephens er, but one of the first directors
USA/111 mins/13+ ever to make a narrative film. BE
Thursday May 9th, 4—6 p.m. @ Record NATURAL: THE UNTOLD STORY
North OF ALICE GUY-BLACHÉ follows
her rise from Gaumont secretary
Under small town scrutiny, a to head of production a year later,
withdrawn farmer’s daughter and her 20-year career in France
forges an intimate friendship with and in the United States as the
a worldly but reckless new girl in founder of her own studio and as
1960s Oklahoma. writer, director, and/or producer
of 1,000 films — after which she
was veritably erased from histo-
ry…until now. The film is directed
by Pamela B. Green and narrated
by Jodie Foster.
CAROL OF THE BELLS
Director: Joey Travolta
USA/95 mins/All Ages
Friday May 10th, 4—6 p.m. @ Record SIN MIEDO A LA
North VERDAD / NO FEAR
One man’s journey back from a
OF TRUTH
devastating heartbreak to heal his Director: Carlos González
family at Christmastime. Mexico/101 mins/15+
Friday May 10th, 12:30—2:30 p.m.
@ Skylight 1
Manu is an urban hero that uses
an alternate cyber-identity to
protect people from any kind of
injustice.
BE NATURAL: THE
UNTOLD STORY OF
ALICE GUY-BLACHÉ
48 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 49JUMANJI: WELCOME
TO THE JUNGLE
119 Minutes
Friday, May 10, 7—8:30 p.m.
Stop by the Sony and Orville Redenbacher’s
Outdoor Theater at Lawrence Park for some of In this fun comedic adventure, 4
teens get sucked into the video
your favorite films. All are free and open to the ANGRY BIRDS game world of Jumanji and have
public. Come early for a good seat. 97 Minutes to finish the game to escape.
Thursday, May 9, 3—4:45 p.m.
GHOSTBUSTERS (1984) as Spider-Man while also triing to In this clever animated comedy,
THE EMOJI MOVIE
return to his normal daily routine. meet Red, Chuck and Bomb, a 86 Minutes
105 Minutes Peter must soon put his powers team of unlikely heroes, and finally Saturday, May 11, 1—2:30 p.m.
Wednesday, May 8, 3—5 p.m. to the test when the evil Vulture learn why the birds are so angry!
emerges to threaten everything
Ghosts invade New York and force Discover the secret world inside
that he holds dear.
a trio of spirit exterminators to your phone where all the emojis live.
save the city in one of the biggest THE SHALLOWS Three emoji friends go on an epic
comedies of all time. Bill Mur- “app-venture” to save Textopolis!
86 Minutes
ray, Dan Aykroyd and Sigourney Friday, May 10, 3:45—5:30 p.m.
Weaver head the all-star cast.
While surfing, Nancy (Blake Lively)
finds herself on the feeding ground
of a great white shark. Survival
becomes the ultimate test of wills.
PETER RABBIT
95 Minutes
THE AMAZING SPIDER-MAN: INTO
Thursday, May 9, 12:45—2:45 p.m.
SPIDERMAN THE SPIDER-VERSE
GHOSTBUSTERS (2016) Peter Rabbit and family wreak hav- 136 Minutes 119 Minutes
oc in hopes to win back the Manor Friday, May 10, 1—3:30 p.m. Saturday, May 11, 5—6:45 p.m.
105 Minutes House of Old McGregor and the
Wednesday, May 8, 5:30—7:15 p.m. affections of their neighbor, Bea. A teenage Peter Parker grapples “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”
with both high school and amaz- introduces Brooklyn teen Miles Mo-
From director Paul Feig, GHOST- ing super-human crises as his rales, and the limitless possibilities
BUSTERS makes its long-awaited CHARLIE'S ANGELS alter-ego Spider-Man. of the Spider-Verse, where more
return starring Melissa McCarthy,
97 Minutes than one can wear the mask.
Kristen Wiig, Kate McKinnon &
Leslie Jones. Thursday, May 9, 5—6:45 p.m.
A DOG'S WAY HOME
HOTEL TRANSYLVANIA 3
They’re beautiful, they’re brilliant 96 Minutes
97 Minutes
SPIDER-MAN: and they work for Charlie. In this Saturday, May 11, 11 a.m.—12:45 p.m.
Saturday, May 11, 3—4:45 p.m.
update of the popular hit show,
HOMECOMING Natalie, Dylan and Alex, alongside A Dog’s Way Home chronicles the
133 Minutes faithful lieutenant Bosley, must foil heartwarming adventure of Bella, a Join Drac, Mavis and all of your
Thursday, May 9, 7—9 p.m. an elaborate murder-revenge plot dog who embarks on an epic 400- favorite monsters for fun and
that could not only destroy indi- mile journey home after she is sep- adventure on the high seas as
Young Peter Parker starts to vidual privacy but spell the end of arated from her beloved human. they embark on a monster
embrace his newfound identity Charlie and his Angels. cruise vacation!
50 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 51BFF presents the official selection of the BFF
2019 Competition films to compete for BFF
Prizes, with all films highlighting our mission of SIMPLE WEDDING INTERNATIONAL
inclusion in media. Director: Sara Zandieh FALLS
USA/88 mins/All Ages Director: Amber McGinnis
Thursday May 9th, 1—3 p.m. USA/97 mins/13+
@ Skylight 1 & Friday May 10th, Thursday May 9th, 3:30—5:30 p.m.
3—5 p.m. @ Skylight 3 @ Skylight 3 & Friday May 10th,
5:45—7:45 p.m. @ Skylight 4
off to her estranged grandmother Nousha continues to sabotage her
and she plots her escape while relationships, much to the frustra- Dee is stuck in a boring job and a
navigating a foreign environment, tion of her parents. She is, after all, broken marriage in International
new friendships and a hidden their only hope for a real Persian Falls, a snowbound border town
eating disorder. wedding. After meeting Alex Tal- at the end of the road. Harbor-
bot—a bisexual artist, activist and ing a secret dream of a stand up
DJ living in an old warehouse, their career, Dee meets a washed up,
relationship progresses quickly, burned out comedian with dreams
GO BACK TO CHINA and when her parents find out, of doing anything else.
chaos unfolds, leading to a wed-
Director: Emily Ting
ding that is anything but simple.
China/USA/96 mins/17+
Wednesday May 8th, 5:30—7:30 p.m.
@ Skylight 4 & Thursday May 9th,
1:15—3 p.m. @ Skylight 4
After spoiled rich girl Sasha Li
THE SHORT HISTORY
blows through half of her trust OF THE LONG ROAD
fund, she is cut off by her father Director: Ani Simon-Kennedy
and forced to go back to China and USA/95 mins/All Ages OLYMPIA
work for the family toy business. Wednesday May 8th, 12:15—1:45 p.m.
@ Skylight 3 & Thursday May 9th, THE GARDEN LEFT Director: Gregory Dixon
USA/93 mins/17+
10 a.m.—12 p.m. @ Skylight 5
BEHIND Thursday May 9th, 10:30 a.m.—
When teenage Nola suddenly Director: Flavio Alves 12:30 p.m. @ Skylight 3 & Friday May
loses her father while living on USA/88 mins/17+ 10th, 12:30—2:30 p.m. @ Skylight 3
the road, she is forced to take the Thursday May 9th, 6—8 p.m.
wheel for the first time - learning @ Skylight 4 & Friday May 10th, A struggling Chicago artist finds
to own her grief, her past, and her 8—10 p.m. @ Skylight 3 herself at a crossroads in life,
new destination. overwhelmed by changes and
The heart-rending story of Tina, needing to make a critical decision
SOLACE a beautiful 30-year-old Mexican in her relationship.
Director: Tchaiko Omawale trans woman, and Eliana, her
USA/88 mins/13+ grandmother, as they navigate
Wednesday May 8th, 10—11:30 a.m. Tina’s transition and struggle as
@ Skylight 4 undocumented immigrants in New
York City.
A 17 year-old orphan is shipped
52 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 Bentonville Film Festival 2019 53You can also read
