More than 400 short films were submitted to the Tallgrass Film Festival, which will showcase 140 of these titles during Wichita’s 10^th annual film festival. The short films come from all over the world, including Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, India, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Kosovo, Nepal, New Zealand, Norway, Puerto Rico, Pakistan, Slovenia, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, U.K, Uganda, and the U.S.A.

Kansas movie lovers will have plenty to watch, learn and talk about at the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival, taking place in and around downtown Wichita from October 18-21. Over 700 films were submitted to this year’s festival, including 307 features, 48 of which were selected by the Tallgrass Programming Committee  to screen at the festival. The festival features 1 World Premiere, 2 U.S. premieres and several Midwest and Regional Premieres. More than 30 filmmakers will be flying in from all over the country to attend, with many regional and local filmmakers also participating in the festivities. Check out TFF’s online Film Guide for more information about each film. A full lineup of short films will be announced on October 5.
 

Program Highlights
 

Highlights of this year’s festival include a few new additions and special programs: Smallgrass - a children’s film program at Exploration Place, sponsored in part by KPTS; Grassroots: Spotlight on Civil Rights films and reception sponsored by the Ulrich Museum of Art, and a Spotlight on Scandinavian Cinema, sponsored by the City of Lindsborg/Lindsborg Arts Council.

FIAT of Wichita is the presenting sponsor for World Cinema selections, while LIV Music & Arts Fest will sponsor the Grasscendo Music Films, Liberty Press presents the Spotlight on LGBT Films, Aspen Boutique presents the Spotlight on Women Filmmakers, media sponsor for that program is Women’s Focus Magazine.
 

For Fest-Goers
 

Consolidated Equities Trust will present the Filmmaker Lounge for the festival’s VIP guests while Clear Channel Outdoor presents the Volunteer Lounge, for more than 100 volunteers who dedicate hundreds of hours year-round to the Tallgrass Film Association.
Heroes Sports Bar & Grill will set up the Heroes Hospitality Tent,  a mobile cafe serving food and beverage to festival goers, outside the festival’s hub, the Orpheum Theatre. The tent will also house several filmmaker panels sponsored by the Wichita Film Commission,  a free-throw basketball clinic with Guinness Book of World Records free throw champ (and Kansan) Bob Fisher and the Centerpiece Gala Party.

Education &  Students
 

In addition to the filmmaker panels, the festival offers several educational programs this year including Free Friday Films, “Free Friday Films” – specially selected educational films that are free of charge for high school and college students/teachers and the senior community (65+.); and a Tallgrass Filmmaker Lab: Documentary Production 101 with alumni filmmaker Chris Metzler.  An exclusive screening of a festival film will be offered at East High School for USD259 High School students. The festival will also offer a VIP Student TALLPass for just $75. This allows students access to all festival general admission and gala films (excludes VIP events, filmmaker lounge and gala parties.) (Parental discretion is advised, most films have not yet been rated by the MPAA.)

Schedules and Tickets
 

Film screening times will be available on the website’s film guide on October 5, which is also when general admission tickets will go on sale. A full list of visiting filmmakers will also be announced at that time. The official festival program will be published as an insert in the Wichita Eagle on October 12, and will be available around the city.
 

Save These Dates:
 

RIGHT NOW:  Online Box Office Open for VIP Passes,  Gala Tickets & Tallgrass Filmmaker Lab
Oct. 5: Short Film Lineup Announced, GA tickets go on sale & full list of visiting filmmakers announced
Oct. 12: Official festival program insert in Wichita Eagle/Stubbornly Independent Gala winner announced
Oct. 15: Physical Box Office opens (check website for location and hours)
For up to the minute information find Tallgrass on facebook and twitter.

2012 OFFICIAL SELECTIONS

GALA SCREENINGS:

Fidelity Bank Opening Night Gala: PABLO (USA, 2012) - with Producer Jeremy Goldscheider, Animation Design Team Freddy Morales and Marcela Perdomo. Followed by the Opening Night Party at 155 N. Market, with open bar, eats and music by DJ Carbon. ($25) Thurs., Oct. 18, 8:00 pm at Wichita Orpheum

Centerpiece Gala Screening: THE STORY OF LUKE (USA, 2012) - with Director Alonso Mayo and Star Lou Taylor Pucci at the Scottish Rite. Followed by the Centerpiece Gala Party at the Heroes Hospitality Tent with live music by Travel Guide and cash bar. ($15) Fri., Oct. 19, 8:00 pm. at the Scottish Rite Theater

Stubbornly Independent Gala: FILM TBA*, with Filmmakers - hosted by Steve Anderson Followed by the Stubbornly Independent party at 241 N. Broadway with open bar, eats and entertainment from Antimosity. ($20) Sat., Oct. 20, 8:00 pm, Wichita Orpheum (*see contenders under Official Selections)

Jean Garvey Presents the Closing Night Gala & Awards: THE STANDBYS (USA, 2012) - with Director Stephanie Riggs and star Ben Crawford, at the Orpheum Theatre, with a Q&A hosted by Music Theatre of Wichita’s Producing Artistic Director Wayne Bryan. The evening also includes the presentation of the txtwrks Audience Awards. Followed by the Closing Night Party at The Lux with open bar, eats and live entertainment. ($25) Sun., Oct. 21, 7:00 pm at the Orpheum Theatre

SPECIAL SCREENINGS:

Smallgrass at Exploration Place: (Media Sponsor KPTS)
IRA FINKELSTEIN’S CHRISTMAS
New York International Children’s Film Festival PARTY MIX
New York International Children’s Film Festival KID’S FLIX

Midnight Screenings (sponsored by The Anchor):
NIGHT OF THE LIVING DEAD (USA, 1968)
THE BROOKLYN BROTHERS BEAT THE BEST

Tallgrass Filmmakers Lab: Film School 101:
TITICUT FOLLIES (USA, 1967)

Athletic Showcase: (sponsored by Maximum Outdoor Equipment)
FREE THROW
Special screening at East High School, and downtown on Friday, Oct. 19 followed by a free throw clinic and competition at the Heroes Hospitality Tent with Guinness Book of World Records free throw champion Bob Fisher.

Greengrass Showcase: (sponsored by WSU Student Chapter of American Association of Petroluem Geologists)
SWITCH
Free Screening at Wichita State University

IN COMPETITION: NARRATIVE FEATURES (*Denotes filmmaker(s) in attendance)

Stubbornly Independent Gala Contenders (made for under $750,000 USD, no traditional theatrical distribution):
DEAD DAD*
FAITH IN DESTINY* (World Premiere)
PETUNIA*
SHOUTING SECRETS*
THE KITCHEN*
THINGS I DON’T UNDERSTAND*

U.S. Narratives:
CALIFORNIA SOLO
COMPLIANCE
FAT KID RULES THE WORLD
KEEP THE LIGHTS ON
THE DYNAMITER

World Narratives:
CITADEL (Ireland)
COMBAT GIRLS (Germany)
KISS ME (Sweden)
SALT (Spain/Chile)
STARBUCK (Canada)
TEDDY BEAR (Denmark)
THE DAY I SAW YOUR HEART (France)
VALLEY OF SAINTS (India)

IN COMPETITION: DOCUMENTARY FEATURES

U.S. Documentaries:  
AI WEIWEI: NEVER SORRY
BEAUTY IS EMBARRASSING*
BOOKER’S PLACE: A MISSISSIPPI STORY*
BONES BRIGADE: AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY
DETROPIA
OXYGEN FOR THE EARS: LIVING JAZZ*
PAUL WILLIAMS STILL ALIVE*
THE RIGHT TO LOVE: AN AMERICAN FAMILY*
SIDE BY SIDE
SUSHI: THE GLOBAL CATCH*
THE BIG PICTURE: RETHINKING DYSLEXIA*
THE INVISIBLE WAR
YEAR OF THE LIVING DEAD* (U.S. Premiere)

World Documentaries:
5 BROKEN CAMERAS (Palestinian Territories/Israel/France)
CALL ME KUCHU (Uganda/USA)
HITLER’S CHILDREN (Germany/Israel/USA)
JUSTICE FOR SALE (Netherlands/Congo)
MEET THE FOKKENS (Netherlands)
PORTRAIT OF WALLY (Austria/USA)
SCARLET ROAD (Australia)

SPECIAL INTEREST PROGRAMS

Ulrich Museum of Art Presents Grassroots: Spotlight on Civil Rights: AI WEI WEI: NEVER SORRY BOOKER’S PLACE: A MISSISSIPPI STORY
From classics like To Kill a Mockingbird (1962) and King (1978), to Malcolm X (1982) and Get on the Bus (1996), how has the social justice film genre evolved? What can audiences expect in the 21st century? The Ulrich Museum celebrates the Tallgrass Film Festival’s 10th anniversary with afternoon film screenings, directors’ talks, and a reception in conjunction with The Hard Kind of Courage. 210 McKnight West, School of Art and Design, Wichita State University (Free admission for Ulrich Museum members and WSU faculty/staff/students with current WSU ID. General admission $10; $8 for students, educators, seniors, military, and Tallgrass Film Association members. For more information, go to info@tallgrassfilmfest.com or call (316) 303-9292.)
 

City of Lindsborg/Lindsborg Arts Council Presents Spotlight on Scandinavian Cinema: KISS ME, TEDDY BEAR, Scandinavian Short Film Showcase

Joel Fein Emerging Filmmaker Program: This  program features the best short films from high school filmmakers, and younger,  from around the globe. FREE for High School Students and younger with valid school ID

Kansas Film Commission presents the Timothy Gruver Spotlight on Kansas Filmmakers: This program showcases the best short films made by filmmakers from across the state of Kansas. FREE for high school students and younger with valid school ID

LIV Music & Arts Festival presents the Grasscendo Music Program: CALIFORNIA SOLO, THE BROOKLYN BROTHERS BEAT THE BEST, OXYGEN FOR THE EARS: LIVING JAZZ, PAUL WILLIAMS STILL ALIVE

Aspen Boutique Spotlight on Women Filmmakers (Media sponsor Women’s Focus): THE STANDBYS, IRA FINKELSTEIN'S CHRISTMAS, SHOUTING SECRETS, KISS ME, THE DAY I SAW YOUR HEART, AI WEIWEI: NEVER SORRY, DETROPIA, THE RIGHT TO LOVE: AN AMERICAN FAMILY, CALL ME KUCHU, JUSTICE FOR SALE, SCARLET ROAD, MEET THE FOKKENS

Liberty Press LGBT Spotlight:  KISS ME, KEEP THE LIGHTS ON, PETUNIA, CALL ME KUCHU, THE RIGHT TO LOVE: AN AMERICAN STORY

Smallgrass: THE BEST OF THE NEW YORK INTERNATIONAL CHILDREN’S FILM FESTIVAL: KID FLIX MIX; THE BEST OF THE NYICFF: PARTY MIX;  IRA FINKELSTEIN'S CHRISTMAS

Greengrass Environmentally-themed Program: SWITCH, SUSHI: THE GLOBAL CATCH

Films About Art: AI WEIWEI: NEVER SORRY, BEAUTY IS EMBARRASSING, PORTRAIT OF WALLY

Films About Cinema/Theater: PABLO, THE STANDBYS, SIDE BY SIDE, YEAR OF THE LIVING DEAD

Films About Sports: FREE THROW, BONES BRIGADE: AN AUTOBIOGRAPHY

The 10^th annual Tallgrass Film Festival is adding a new Gala to its lineup. On Saturday, October 20, the first-ever Stubbornly Independent Gala will be held at the Orpheum Theatre , and will feature a film screening, Q&A with the filmmakers and an after-party with open bar/food/entertainment.

The twist? Six independent films, that met the criteria for the competition, are vying for the Gala spotlight. The Stubbornly Independent Gala contenders are DEAD DAD, FAITH IN DESTINY, PETUNIA, SHOUTING SECRETS, THE KITCHEN and THINGS I DON’T UNDERSTAND. Eligible films had to be a domestic narrative feature, made for less than $750,000 USD, with no traditional theatrical distribution at the time of the Tallgrass screening. (See below and click here for film synopses & trailers.)

The winning film will be chosen by the Tallgrass Film Festival Programming Committee and will be announced in the official festival program guide published in the Wichita Eagle (and on the Tallgrass website) on October 12.

In addition to the Gala screening, the filmmakers will receive a $1,000 cash prize, and the coveted Jake Euker Stubbornly Independent Award, named for longtime friend and supporter of the festival, and given to someone who inspires future generations of filmmakers and encourages them to follow their dreams.

“We decided that to mark our tenth anniversary year by celebrating our roots: independent film; and the best way to capture that sentiment is to shine a spotlight on those filmmakers out there who are making those true indie films. After all, it is their creativity and dedication to the craft of moviemaking that allows Tallgrass to continue year after year,” said Executive Director Lela Meadow-Conner.

One or more filmmakers from each nominated film will attend the festival and three of the films come from alumni filmmakers all of whom will attend: James Choi (MADE IN CHINA, JOINT BODY), Ash Christian (FAT GIRLS, MANGUS) and Ishai Setton (THE BIG BAD SWIM.) All runners-up will receive general admission screenings on Saturday or Sunday during the festival. 

“These filmmakers and their movies are the stars of the show,”  said Meadow-Conner.

The feature film will be preceded by one of the award-winning films from Tallgrass/Creative Rush’s recent Down to the Wire: A 24 Hour Filmmaking Competition.

“Our recent filmmaking competition, Down to the Wire, showcased the immense talent of all of the independent filmmakers in Wichita. As a festival, we want to foster and encourage our regional filmmaking community to continue making movies and showcase some incredible films that are made with small budgets and short time frames," Meadow-Conner added.

The Stubbornly Independent Gala will take place in lieu of the Ad Astra program; the evening is hosted by festival sponsor Steve Anderson. The 10^th annual Tallgrass Film Festival takes place October 18-21 in and around downtown Wichita, Kansas and opens with the U.S. premiere of PABLO. Tickets go on sale October 1.

The Stubbornly Independent Gala Contenders: (clink link to the left to view all movie trailers)

• DEAD DAD (Midwest Premiere, Dir: Ken J. Adachi, Cast: Kyle Arrington, Jenni Melear, Lucas K. Peterson, USA, 2012)

When their dad dies unexpectedly, estranged siblings Russell, Jane and their adopted brother, Alex, come home to tend to his remains. Though difficult, the three must work together to achieve a proper goodbye and discover what it means to be a family without their dad.

• FAITH IN DESTINY (World Premiere, Dir. James Choi, Cast: Keith Neagle, Sasha Grishkov, USA, 2012)

A stylized neo-noir about Killian and his lover, Mary, and the strange circumstances involving a mysterious woman name Faith, who stands in their way of being together. A metaphor for the choices and coincidences in life that make up your destiny.

• PETUNIA (Wichita Premiere, Dir. Ash Christian, Cast: Thora Birch, Brittany Snow, Eddie Kaye Thomas, Christine Lahti, Michael Urie, USA, 2012)

An off beat family of New Yorkers must come to terms with their own misgivings about life, relationships and the sheer unpredictability of love itself. Petunia is a film about a dysfunctional family unit on the verge of a nervous breakdown. This is the story of how they pick up the pieces.

• SHOUTING SECRETS (Regional Premiere, Director Korinna Sehringer, Cast: Chaske Spencer, Q’orianka Kilcher, Tyler Christopher, Gil Birmingham, USA 2011)

It’s the tale of a fractured family brought together by tragedy. A richly realized portrait of kin repairing bonds once thought irretrievably broken. The entire clan is in flux in a story that is at once about the constancy and the fragility of love, as well as the importance of family.

• THE KITCHEN (Midwest Premiere, Dir. Ishai Setton, Cast: Laura Prepon, Bryan Greenberg, Dreama Walker, Matt Bush, Tate Ellington, USA 2012)

In this ensemble comedy set entirely inside a kitchen, a birthday party is about to start. Jennifer, is about to turn 30, but she is in no mood to party. She has just left her job and her cheating boyfriend, and midst all this chaos, is trying to figure out how to start the next chapter of her life.

•  THINGS I DON'T UNDERSTAND (Regional Premiere, Dir. David Spaltro, Cast: Molly Ryman, Aaron Mathis, Grace Folsom, USA 2012)

Violet Kubelick, is brilliant, young grad student studying near-death experiences. Forced by financial matters to finally step out of her protective Brooklyn bubble, Violet forms a cathartic relationship with a young, terminally ill girl in a hospice and the damaged bartender who lives downstairs. A story of changing, relationships, love, life and what comes after we die.

COMING UP THIS WEEK:

Wednesday, Sept. 12: LivingSound PopUp Cinema at Botanica: Caddyshack ($20 admission includes the gardens, a free screening of CADDYSHACK, complimentary made-to-order crumbly burgers from NuWAY, pizza bites from Picasso's Pizza, chips & salsa from Playa Azul, wings from Buffalo Wild Wings, Tallgrass Brewing Company specialty Firkin Keg draws, a full cash bar from The Bar’s Open, miniature golf course, cigars for sale from Mort's, massage by Elite Wellness, drawing for VIP TALLPass to the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival, a round of golf for 4 at Crestview Country Club, a box of cigars from Mort's and more!

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Distributors

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Clear Channel Outdoor, Integrated Media Group, LivingSound Home, KMUW 89.1

Executive Producers

Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Hotel at WaterWalk, Consolidated Equities Trust

“He’s one of the very few artists in his metier, which is titles, who receives credit for his titles. He is a true artist”-- Angelica Huston

“Genius”-- Stanley Kubrick

The tenth annual Tallgrass Film Festival will be full of unexpected, “stubbornly independent” surprises, beginning with its Opening Night Gala, presented by Fidelity Bank, and featuring the U.S. premiere of PABLO, October 18 at the historic Orpheum Theatre. The gala begins at 7:45 p.m. and will be followed by a Q&A with Producer Jeremy Goldscheider and Design and Motion Graphics artists Luis Freddy Morales and Marcela Perdomo, and opening night after party. Tickets are $25 and will go on sale October 1.

PABLO, which premiered worldwide this year at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, is a feature length documentary narrated by Jeff Bridges that blends animation, motion graphics and film clips to tell the story of visual artist and designer, Pablo Ferro. The film centers around Ferro's influence as a counter-cultural artist of the sixties and around the legacy this visual artist has created for contemporary audiences. Ferro is best known for creating legendary title sequences for such films as DR. STRANGELOVE, A CLOCKWORK ORANGE, MEN IN BLACK, GOOD WILL HUNTING, and L.A. CONFIDENTIAL.

“I am, along with the PABLO filmmaking team, excited and honored to premiere PABLO at the 2012 Tallgrass Film Festival,” said Producer Jeremy Goldscheider. “Our film portrays a truly independent artist whose career and work falls very much in line with Tallgrass' "Stubbornly Independent" motto. Premiering PABLO in Wichita, Kansas, is very Pablo Ferro-esque - out of the box!”

PABLO features interviews with Angelica Huston, Andy Garcia, Stan Lee, Jon Voight, Norman Jewison, Jonathan Demme, George Segal, Leonard Maltin and others who try pinning down Pablo's elusive and ever- changing chameleonic persona. In his own words, Pablo describes his “roller coaster life” -- from the fields of Cuba to New Yorkʼs Hells Kitchen, from young poor immigrant to hot Madison Avenue commercial director, and from one of the most innovative multi-media artists to the wrong end of a gun. Pablo is able to put his life back together to become one of the most recognized names in cinema title art and design.

"We are incredibly honored to be hosting the US Premiere of PABLO,” said Lela Meadow-Conner, Executive Director of Tallgrass Film Association. “It's a truly creative piece about a truly ‘stubbornly independent’ man. It gives us a glimpse into the eccentric life of Pablo Ferro, and showcases the work of a real industry pioneer whose work is instantly recognizable." The film is distributed by Shoreline Entertainment.

Hosting the 2012 Tallgrass visiting filmmakers is made possible by a grant from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in support of the Filmmaker Hospitality Program for the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival, and by The Hotel At Waterwalk. Stay tuned this week for an announcement of several confirmed official selections.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Distributors

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Clear Channel Outdoor, Integrated Media Group, LivingSound Home, KMUW 89.1

Executive Producers

Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Hotel at WaterWalk, Consolidated Equities Trust

TFA, Exploration Place and KPTS are proud to announce the arrival of Smallgrass, a children’s film program to be shown at Exploration Place (300 N. MacLean Blvd) in conjunction with the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival this October. Cost of admission is $7, or $5 for members of TFA, Exploration Place, and KPTS Kids Club, and includes three film programs plus admission to Exploration Place exhibits.

“When Tallgrass Film Association approached us to host Smallgrass, we thought it was a perfect partnership,” said Exploration Place president Jan Luth. “Art and science go hand in hand, and with Smallgrass, families can spend the day doing both for less than the ticket cost for just one film anywhere else.”

Smallgrass begins at 10:30 a.m. Saturday October 20 and is programmed for families children age 3 and up and the young at heart. Films include the short film programs KID FLIX MIX (recommended for ages 3-8) and PARTY MIX (recommended for ages 8-12) from the Best of the New York International Children’s Film Festival, and the feature length comedy IRA FINKELSTEIN’S CHRISTMAS, about a Christmas-obsessed Jewish boy who on his way to sunny Florida figures out how to get the Christmas of his dreams by trading places with another boy on his way to snowy Christmastown, WA. The film also features Elliott Gould, winner of the 2011 Tallgrass Film Festival Ad Astra Award. There will be activities between each film program, children can have their photos taken with The Cat in the Hat, and refreshments will be for sale in the Exploration Place snack bar.

Exploration Place offers visitors of all ages nine hands-on exhibit galleries, Kansas’ largest domed theater – the Boeing Dome Theater and Planetarium – imaginative spaces, and outdoor recreation, all located on a 20-acre site along the scenic Arkansas River in downtown Wichita, Kan. www.facebook.com/ExplorationPlace www.Twitter.com/DiscoverAtEP

The KPTS Kids Club is open to all children up to age 11 with an annual family contribution to the station. The club’s purpose is to bridge communication and awareness between children and parents through educational activities that enrich, engage and entertain. Kid’s Club members attend special activity days with KPTS in April, June, August and October.

The 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival takes place October 18-21 in and around downtown Wichita, Kansas. A complete announcement of official selections will be available of September 29.

UP NEXT:

August 25: Dudegrass: A Lebowski Extravaganza - 5:00 - 9:00 pm at Northrock Lanes. Tickets are $15 and are available online and at the door. Admission includes unlimited bowling, shoe rental, costume and trivia contests, a screening of the Coen brothers cult classic The Big Lebowski, food and drink specials and more.
 

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

Wichita's First 24 Hour Film Race Proves Wildly Successful; Sees 34 Teams, 27 Films Compete

Top Ten Showcase at The Orpheum Theatre tonight is open to public

Choosing the Top Ten proved to be more difficult than the judges expected; first they had to eliminate 17 films from the running. As Wichita’s first ever 24-hour film race has come to a close, CreativeRush and Tallgrass Film Association saw an overwhelming 34 teams register for the competition, including several well-known Wichita filmmakers and a team of junior high students, with 27 films ultimately submitted. They will showcase the Top Ten films and host an award ceremony tonight, Sunday Aug. 12, at 7:00 p.m. at The Orpheum Theatre (200 N. Broadway).

Down to the Wire: A 24 Hour Film Race gave teams of up to 15 people 24 hours to write, shoot, and edit a film less than six minutes long. All films were required to incorporate four given elements: a theme, location, prop, and line of dialogue, randomly drawn at the race's beginning.

“Never in our wildest dreams did we expect to see so many teams register in our first year,” says TFA Executive Director Lela Meadow-Conner. “The excitement for this film race just goes to show what a creative pulse we have in Wichita, and how much fun the realm of independent filmmaking can be. We can't wait to host it again next year and make this an annual affair."

Down to the Wire kicked off Friday August 10th at 6:00 p.m. with a Producers’ Meeting at Wichita Downtown Development Corporation. Filmmakers had until 7:00 p.m. Saturday August 11th to complete and submit films at the Tallgrass Film Association office. Filmmakers and both organizations followed the race live via Twitter, as all involved were encouraged to document their experiences using the hashtag #DownToTheWire.
 

"It's amazing what people can creatively come up with under pressure," says CreativeRush founder Kylie Brown. "We saw teams trying to throw each other off through their tweets. We saw photos of horses, sunrises, and middle-of-the-night caffeine breaks. For those of us not competing, it was really fun to watch the race unfold live."

A VIP judging panel will live critique the Top Ten films at the public screening tonight, and award First, Second, and Third Places and The Student Film Award. The audience will have the opportunity to vote for the Audience Choice Award. VIP judges for Down to the Wire are Sarah Kallail, KWCH Producer and actor with "Say What Improvisational Comedy Troupe"; Wynn Ponder, writer/filmmaker and Managing Partner for IMG Pictures and Impression Pictures; and Peter Jasso, Director of the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission.

The first place film will receive a gala screening at the 10th Annual Tallgrass Film Festival October 18th-21st, all access VIP TALLPasses for all team members, a $500 filmmaking grant from Vimeo, and a free filmmaking class at the Digital Arts Studio at CityArts. All participating filmmakers will have the opportunity to submit their films to the 10th Annual Tallgrass Film Festival.

Tickets for the Top Ten Showcase are free for all registered teams and $3 to the public, available at the door.

Down to the Wire was sponsored in part by KMUW and Monster Energy Drink.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

Abide with Tallgrass at the 2^nd annual DUDEGRASS: A LEBOWSKI EXTRAVAGANZA

What do bowling + White Russians + a rug giveaway + a bathrobe equal? A nihilist celebration that really ties the room together, man.

Tallgrass Film Association presents DUDEGRASS 2012: A LEBOWSKI EXTRAVAGANZA August 25 from 5 p.m.-9 p.m. at Northrock Lanes (3232 N. Rock Rd.).

DUDEGRASS includes unlimited bowling, shoe rental, White Russian specials from Hammer + Sickle vodka, food specials from A.J.’s Sports Grill, and a free screening of Joel and Ethan Coen’s cult classic THE BIG LEBOWSKI (1998). TIckets are just $15 for the entire evening and are available online and at the door. The event is a fundraiser TFA.

“We had such a great turnout for Dudegrass last year, we’re making it an annual event,” says Nick Pope, Director of Programming. “Turns out there are a lot of people in Wichita who want to pay homage to and toast The Dude. Last year, Northrock Lanes sold over 500 White Russians in one night.”

The evening will also feature costume and trivia contests, a drawing for a MSR backpacking tent from Backwoods, a chance to win all access VIP TALLPasses to the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival in October, and other what-have-yous. Dudegrass is sponsored by Northrock Lanes, Hammer + Sickle Vodka, Tallgrass Brewing Company and 107.3 The Brew.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

Schedule, Resources, Judges announced for August 10th-12th film competition

Filmmaking is not for the fainthearted, but where there’s a will, there’s a way. As Wichita’s first 24-hour film race draws near, CreativeRush and Tallgrass Film Association offer several opportunities for film racers to gather resources. Down to the Wire: A 24 Hour Film Race gives teams of up to 15 people 24 hours to write, shoot, and edit a film less than six minutes long. Students and amateur filmmakers are highly encouraged to participate.

“This competition really boils down to being able to tell a great story with the challenges given. If you have a strong script, you could shoot your film on an iPhone and we’ll want to watch it,” says CreativeRush founder Kylie Brown. “This is also just a fun way to end the summer and give creative people a chance to showcase their talent.”

CreativeRush will host two informal meetups for Q&A and team connections in the Digital Arts Studio at CityArts (334 N. Mead, 2nd floor). Anyone considering joining the race can ask questions, voice concerns, find team members, and assess needs for the competition. Meetups will be Tuesday July 24th and Thursday Aug 2nd at 6:30 p.m. Meetups are not required for participation in the race.

The Digital Arts Studio will offer the use of four editing stations loaded with Adobe Premiere Creative Suite 5 software to registered teams during the race, for free. The stations are available on a first come first serve basis, and can be reserved by contacting Bryan McManus at (316) 350-3246.

Down to the Wire kicks off Friday August 10th with a Producers’ Meeting at Wichita Downtown Development Corporation (507 E. Douglas) at 6:00 p.m. Filmmakers will have until 7:00 p.m. on Saturday August 11th to complete and submit films at the Tallgrass Film Association office (212 N. Market, 2nd floor).

The Top Ten films will receive live critique with a VIP judging panel and a public screening Sunday August 12th at The Orpheum Theatre (200 N. Broadway) at 7:00 p.m. VIP judges for Down to the Wire are Sarah Kallail, KWCH Producer and actor with "Say What Improvisational Comedy Troupe"; Wynn Ponder, writer/filmmaker and Managing Partner for IMG Pictures and Impression Pictures; and Peter Jasso, Director of the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission.

The first place film will receive a gala screening at the 10th Annual Tallgrass Film Festival October 18th-21st, all access VIP TALLPasses for all team members, a $500 filmmaking grant from Vimeo, and a free filmmaking class at the Digital Arts Studio at CityArts. Tickets for the Top Ten Screening are free for all registered teams and $3 to the public, available at the door. For more details and a full schedule of Down the Wire: A 24 Hour Film Race, visit www.creativerush.org.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

Tallgrass & LivingSound Present Pop Up Cinema at Newport Grill

TFA & LivingSound Home are bringing Pop Up Cinema to the East side on Wednesday, August 15^th at Newport Grill (1900 N. Rock in Bradley Fair.) The film begins at 8:30 pm.

Join us on the patio to watch and celebrate the 25^th anniversary of Best Picture nominee MOONSTRUCK (1987), starring Cher, Nicolas Cage and Olympia Dukakis. The film tells the story of Loretta Castorini, a bookkeeper from Brooklyn, who finds herself in a difficult situation when she falls for the brother of the man she agreed to marry (the best friend of her late husband who died seven years previously). Directed by Norman Jewison, MOONSTRUCK was nominated for five additional Academy Awards including Best Director, and both Cher and Olympia Dukakis took home Oscars® for their roles.

Specials include drinks from Hammer + Sickle vodka and Tallgrass Brewing Company. There will also be a drawing for a VIP TALLPass ($175 value) to the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival, and a signup for an MSR tent giveaway ($330 value) from Backwoods.

Seating is limited. For guaranteed seating please call Newport Grill directly to make your reservation (316) 636-9555.

Third Thursdays Return to WAM with Acclaimed Doc THE IMPOSTER, Plus Dine At The Muse

This true story plays like a gripping psychological thriller, offering hard speculation and harder truths. You won't be able to get it out of your head.” – PeterTravers, Rolling Stone

Third Thursdays return August 16th with the critically acclaimed documentary THE IMPOSTER at Wichita Art Museum (1400 W. Museum Blvd.). The box office opens at 5:00 p.m. and the film begins at 7:00 p.m.

The Muse Cafe at WAM will offer a dinner for movie-goers beginning at 5:00 p.m., which will be reservation-only. All meals are guaranteed to be finished by 6:50 p.m., in time for the 7:00 p.m. film start. For dinner reservations please call The Muse (316) 268-4973.

A gripping thriller straight out of real life, THE IMPOSTER is an original film experience that walks the razor’s edge between true-crime documentary and stylish noir mystery. The twisting, turning tale begins with an unsettling disappearance – that of Nicholas Barclay, a 13 year-old Texas boy who vanishes without a trace. Three and a half years later, staggering news arrives: the boy has been found, thousands of miles from home in Spain, saying he survived a mind-boggling ordeal of kidnap and torture by shadowy captors. Director Bart Layton fuses confessional interviews, strikingly creative re-enactments and suspenseful storytelling into a film that asks the audience to play detective – as they ferret out the blurred evidence between a family who seems desperate to believe, a private investigator obsessed with resolution and a lonely thief whose only loot is human identities.

Tickets are $10 ($8 for TFA members, seniors, students, teachers, and military) and are available online at tallgrassfilmfest.com or at the door. There will also be a drawing for a VIP TALLPass ($175 value) to the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival October 18-21, 2012.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

Director Emily Lou will attend the Special Screening of the 2011 Tallgrass Film Festival Audience Award Winning Film

Paraskevidekatriaphobics, beware: with three Friday the 13ths in 2012, each thirteen weeks apart, those with a deep, blinding fear of the day might be averse to watching the Special Screening hosted by Tallgrass Film Association on July 13. All others are encouraged to attend a Special Screening of the 2011 Tallgrass Film Festival Audience Award-winning film, THE SELLING at 7:30 p.m at the (purportedly haunted itself) Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum (204 S. Main). The film will be followed by a Q&A with the filmmaker, Emily Lou, and a walking ghost tour of downtown Wichita led by Ann Keefer, Vice President of Marketing for the Wichita Downtown Development Corporation.

THE SELLING follows Richard Scarry (like the children’s book author), a too-honest-for-his-own-good real estate agent who buys a property to flip for a profit...only to discover the house is haunted. “It’s a comedic story about ghosts, demonic possession, and real estate that is fun for both kids and adults,” explains producer/director Emily Lou. THE SELLING is Lou’s first feature film, and has now been selected to over 25 film festivals across the world, winning multiple awards, including Best First Time Director at Irvine International Film Festival and Best Feature at L.A. Comedy Film Festival.

Though a native of California, Lou has close ties to Wichita. “My husband's (John Friend, a co-producer of the film) family is from Wichita and he grew up coming here every summer. It's honestly one of my favorite places to visit; the art scene, architecture and culture of the Midwest is fantastic and refreshing.  Out of all of the festivals I've attended, Tallgrass was one of my all time favorites by a long shot.”

Tickets are $15, and can be purchased online or at the door. Seating is limited so advanced purchase is recommended. Doors open at The Wichita-Sedgwick County Historical Museum at 7:00 p.m. Admission includes screening, Q&A and a 45-minute walking ghost tour of downtown Wichita.

June 21: Cinema Alfresco X: The Royal Tenenbaums

June 23: Tallgrass Filmmakers Lab: Screenwriting for Low Budget Production

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

TFA has teamed up with the Wichita Riverfest and the LIV Music & Arts Festival to bring a cinematic element to this summer’s most anticipated city events. “Summertime is synonymous with movies, and TFA wanted to bring that element into two of Wichita’s favorite summer festivals.” said Lela Meadow-Conner, TFA’s Executive Director. “Tallgrass is all about synergy, and we’re all here to entertain the city, so it’s a natural fit to band together to make our festivals as dynamic as they can be.”

TFA and LIV Fest present the music mockumentary WALK HARD: THE DEWEY COX STORY (co-written and produced by Judd Apatow) as an official River Festival event on Saturday June 9 at 4:00 p.m. at the Orpheum Theatre (200 N. Broadway). Starring indie-film mainstay John C. Reilly, WALK HARD is the up-and-down-and-up-again story of musician Dewey Cox, whose songs would change a nation. On his rock 'n roll spiral, he marries three times, stars in his own 70s TV show, and collects friends ranging from Elvis to the Beatles to a chimp, but despite it all, Cox grows into a national icon and eventually earns the love of a good woman. WALK HARD: THE DEWEY COX STORY is rated R. Admission is free with River Festival button ($5).

On Friday June 15 and Saturday June 16, TFA and Living Sound Home present Pop Up Cinema at LIV Festival. TFA will screen a collection of short films in the Living Sound Home Pop Up Cinema tent on Broadway, outside the Orpheum, between band breaks. The tent will also feature a Listening Station provided Bowers & Wilkins personal hi-fi, and Tallgrass Film Festival giveaways. On Saturday, June 16, TFA will close out LIV Fest with a Secret Screening at Midnight in the Orpheum Theatre. Stay tuned to the Tallgrass facebook, twitter and website in the coming weeks for clues. Admission is free with an LIV Fest button ($25).

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

TFA presents its annual, free summertime film series at The Brickyard (129 N. Rock Island( in Oldtown. Whether it’s X, 10 or ten, Cinema Alfresco will celebrate its 10th season with ten films displaying “ten” somewhere in the title. Each film will be preceded by a Tallgrass Film Festival short film and at every screening, there will be drawing for a VIP TALLPass ($175) to the 10th annual Tallgrass Film Festival in October. Winners must be present to win. Under 21 welcome.

Screenings, which are free of charge and open to the public, will take place Thursdays from May 24 through July 26, films begin at 7 pm and will show rain or shine. Doors open at 6 pm and The Brickyard will offer their new menu and drink specials.

The series is sponsored by The Brickyard and Tallgrass Brewing Company.

2011 Cinema Alfresco Screening Schedule: Watch all the movie trailers here!

May 24"

10 (1979)

Dir. Blake Edwards | 122m | R | Cast: Dudley Moore, Bo Derek, Julie Andrews

Blake Edwards’ iconic '70s film about a popular songwriter (Dudley Moore) who is driven by midlife crisis to adorably stalk the very 70s-hot Bo Derek. The film you will forever blame for permanently planting Ravel’s “Bolero” in your brain. Co-starring the amazing Julie Andrews.

May 31:

THE CONTENDER (2000)

Dir. Rod Lurie | 126m | R | Gary Oldman, Joan Allen, Christian Slater

A senator’s sexual history is exposed when she runs for vice president in this sharp political thriller by Rod Lurie. Featuring critically acclaimed performances by Gary Oldman, Jeff Bridges, Joan Allen and Christian Slater.

June 7:

3:10 TO YUMA (1957)

Dir. Delmer Daves | 92m | NR | Glenn Ford, Van Heflin, Felicia Farr

A broke rancher risks his life to escort an outlaw to trial in Delmar Daves classic Western. Starring Glenn Ford and Van Heflin as the competitors in a wicked battle of wits.

June 14:

THE TENDER TRAP (1955)

Dir. Charles Walters | 111m | NR| Cast: Frank Sinatra, Debbie Reynolds, David Wayne

Julie Gillis (Debbie Reynolds) knows she’ll be married next March 12. She just doesn’t know to whom. But it’s a cinch he’ll have blue eyes. Frank Sinatra headlines this ring-a-ding-ding delight.

June 21:

Celebrate Pride Week with

THE ROYAL TENENBAUMS (2001)

Dir. Wes Anderson | 110m | R | Alec Baldwin, Gwyneth Paltrow, Owen Wilson, Anjelica Huston

A heck of a cast (including Alec Baldwin, Gwyneth Paltrow, Owen Wilson, Anjelica Huston, Gene Hackman, Ben Stiller, Luke Wilson, Bill Murray, Danny Glover and 2009 Tallgrass Ad Astra Award recipient Seymour Cassel) joins forces with writer/director Wes Anderson to delight and perplex in this dysfunctional family comedy.

June 28:

TENDER MERCIES (1983)

Dir. Bruce Beresford | 100m | PG | Cast: Robert Duvall, Tess Harper, Betty Buckley

Robert Duvall stars as a down-and-out country singer trying to start over in a small Texas town with his new wife (Tess Harper). Duvall won an Academy Award and was nominated (or won) nearly every other award available at the time for his heartbreaking performance.

July 5:

MADAME X (1966)

Dir. David Lowell Rich | 100m | NR | Cast: Lana Turner, John Forsythe, Ricardo Montalban

A neglected socialite is forced to live on the run when her lover is killed in an accident. This lush reimagining of a classic tale is said to be Lana Turner’s most accomplished performance.

July 12:

CRUEL INTENTIONS (1999)

Dir. Roger Kumble | 97m | R | Cast: Reese Witherspoon, Sarah Michelle Gellar, Ryan Phillippe

Rich and wicked step-siblings (Ryan Phillippe and Sarah Michelle Gellar) place a brutal bet that backfires. Not your average love story, this twisted thriller was inspired by Stephan Frears’ “Dangerous Liaisons.”

July 19:

DIRTY ROTTEN SCOUNDRELS (1988)

Dir. Frank Oz | 110m | PG | Cast: Steve Martin, Michael Caine, Glenne Headly

Rival con artists Steve Martin and Michael Caine team up to take advantage of each other’s unique talents as they swindle unsuspecting women vacationing in the Riviera. A comedic genius showdown.

July 26:

10 THINGS I HATE ABOUT YOU (1999)

Dir. Gil Junger | 97m | PG13 | Cast: Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles, Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Set in a modern day high school, this remake of Shakespeare’s “Taming of the Shrew” stars Heath Ledger, Julia Stiles and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. The film is a witty tribute to the original, with a clever nod to the challenges of teen love.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

“This is…a Scandi-noir to die for.” – Time Out New York

“It's so gripping you won't mind the subtitles.” – Daily Mail UK

“Behind the cold calculation of the narrative lies a warm heart and an uplifting message about love. See it before the Hollywood remake.”- Daily Express

TFA presents the critically-acclaimed, art heist mystery HEADHUNTERS as May’s selection for its Third Thursday screening series, now taking place through December at the Wichita Art Museum. The film screens on Thursday, May 17^th at 7:00 pm and is followed by Tallgrass Cinema Salon. Tickets are $10 General Admission, $8 for students + teachers, seniors, military & TFA members. KPTS Channel 8 is media sponsor.

“We’re especially excited to bring HEADHUNTERS to Wichita,” said Tallgrass Programming Director Nick Pope. “This Norwegian film – equal parts action, suspense and black comedy - has been thrilling European audiences. And it’s just a taste of what we’ll be bringing to the film festival in October when we present a new program“Spotlight on World Cinema: Scandinavia,” focusing on the incredible filmmaking coming from the Nordic region of the world.”

Based on Jo Nesbø's best-selling thriller from 2008, HEADHUNTERS stars the talented Aksel Hennie (Max Manus) as Roger, a charming scoundrel and Norway's most accomplished headhunter. Roger is living a life of luxury well beyond his means, and stealing art to subsidize his expensive lifestyle. When his beautiful gallery owner wife introduces him to a former mercenary in the possession of an extremely valuable painting, he decides to risk it all to get his hands on it, and in doing so discovers something which makes him a hunted man.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

When the weather warms and everyone wants to be outside, there’s no better place to be than the Botanica Gardens. To celebrate milestone anniversary years, Tallgrass Film Association and Botanica have partnered to present a series of three Pop Up Cinema screenings, which will take place between May and September. Each event includes admission to the gardens, complimentary food and drink, activities and a free film screening. The event is co-sponsored by Living Sound Home providing the A/V installation, and House of Schwan. Tickets are available by visiting the Botanica website, advance purchase recommended.

*

May 9: GIRLS NIGHT OUT (Tickets: $20; $15 for TFA & Botanica Members; Doors open at 7:30 pm, film begins at 8:30 pm.)

Admission includes the gardens, complimentary signature cocktail from Hammer + Sickle vodka, hors d’oeuvres from Newport Grill, hair styles by Salon Lush, spa treatments from Ideal Beauty Salon and Lash Studio, Say Cheez Photo Booth, a full cash bar from The Bar’s Open and a free screening of the John Hughes classic PRETTY IN PINK on the south hill of Terrace Patio. Media sponsor is B98 FM.

*

July 11: KIDS NIGHT OUT (Tickets: $6/child; $4/child for TFA & Botanica Members. Doors open at 7:30 pm, film begins around 8:30 pm)

Admission includes the gardens, kid’s activities, complimentary popcorn, candy, flavored milk from Nesquick, and a free screening of THE GOONIES that will thrill a whole new generation, at the amphitheater in the Children’s Garden, Media sponsor is KMUW.

*

September 12: GUYS NIGHT OUT (Tickets: $20; $15 for TFA & Botanica Members; Doors open at 7:30 pm, film begins at 8:30 pm.)

Admission includes the gardens, a miniature golf course, complimentary crumbly burgers from NuWAY, Tallgrass Brewing Company specialty Firkin Keg draws, a full cash bar from The Bar’s Open, cigars and a free screening of the epic comedy CADDYSHACK in The Pavilion. Media sponsor is KMUW.

Upcoming TFA events:

April 15: Tallgrass Film Festival Roadshow: Blair Theater - Belleville, Kansas

April 19: Tallgrass Third Thursdays at the Murdock present the Oscar-nominated CHICO & RITA

April 21: TFA Presents VI to X: Six Months to Tallgrass Ten at the Orpheum Theatre

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion

TFA presents VI to X: Six Months to Tallgrass Ten, an all-day film festival at the Wichita Orpheum Theatre on April 21. The event marks the half-way point of the 10^th annual Tallgrass Film Festival in October, and is designed to showcase independent film and the “Tallgrass Experience” to new audiences, with six film programs and festivities on 1st Street.

"We are definitely out to show that independent films are fresh, intelligent and cutting-edge, and the day's lineup definitely highlights our stubborn independence," says TFA Marketing Director Jessy Clonts. "The WSU students we are working with put it best - it's time to think outside the box office. Tallgrass Film Festival is one of the most exciting events Wichita has to offer, and VI to X will offer a taste of the Tallgrass experience. Even though we can now watch films at home, on our laptops and phones, nothing beats that shared experience of watching a film in great company."

VI to X will feature four free film selections - including a shorts program and a midnight screening - as well as two premiering films with special guests, and an after-party. In addition to the movies, TFA has teamed with Wichita State University’s Communication Campaigns class to bring the “festival” atmosphere to the festival. The block of 1st Street between Broadway and Topeka will be closed for the day to showcase a number of vendors and attractions organized by the class including The Flying Stove, Galaxy Home Entertainment (arcade machines), Wichita Photo Booth, Wichita Casino Parties spray tattoos,  a hookah lounge area and a graffitti artist.

• 10:00 am -  LA Comedy Shorts Best of the Fest World Tour - A compilation of the best short films from the LA Comedy Shorts Festival (some content may be intended for mature audiences.) free w/ sticker
• 12:00 pm - The Sandman - Opening Night Film at the 9th annual Tallgrass Film Festival (2011), from Director Peter Luisi. free w/ sticker
• 2:00 pm - Bomb The System - Opening Night Film at the 1st annual Tallgrass Film Festival (2003), Director Adam Bhala Lough. free w/ sticker
• 5:00 pm -  The Big Fix - from Tallgrass alumni Director's Josh and Rebecca Tickell (FUEL, FREEDOM), the film is sponsored by 3G Energy. Celebrate Earth Day with a panel discussion following the film. Included with TALLAccess VIX button or $10 GA
• 8:00 pm - God Bless America - It's a Bonnie and Clyde for the 21st Century as a 45 year old man and a teenage girl go on a killing spree in comedian Bobcat Goldthwait's angry and bloody black comedy (TIFF). The film's star Joel Murray (Mad Men, Shameless) will attend. (Film is rated R and intended for mature audiences.) Included with TALL Access VIX button or $10 GA
• 10:00 pm  - 80's throwback after-party (location TBA) with music, open bar, and food from The Red Barn TALL Access VIX buttons only
• 12:00 am  - Red-Eye Screening: Troll 2 presented by Hurts So Good Films. Enough said. free w/ sticker

*Stickers will be available at select Wichita locations during the month of April and at the door. (Check Tallgrass facebook and website for early pickup locations.)

VI to X Sponsors include the Orpheum Theatre, KMUW 89.1, 3G Energy, Hurts So Good Films, Hotel at Waterwalk, 8-BIT from Tallgrass Brewing Company and The Red Barn.

As the Heartland's premier film association, TFA fosters an appreciation of the cinematic arts by creating shared experiences around the international medium of film.

Executive Producers

Go Wichita!, Howerton + White, City of Wichita, Clear Channel Radio, Wichita Downtown Development Corporation, Bonavia Family Charitable Trust, Real Development, Hotel at WaterWalk

Producers

KPTS - Channel 8, Tallgrass Brewing Co, KMUW 89.1-FM, Burly Studios, Jean & Willard Garvey Fund, House of Schwan, Galichia Foundation, LivingSound, Integrated Media Group, FMI: Forming and Machining Industries, Ulrich Museum of Art, 250 Douglas Place, Beyond Napa at Rock Island Studios, The Orpheum

Directors

Hammer + Sickle Vodka, The Sheppard Foundation, Rain Cafe & Lounge, The Wichita Eagle, Fidelity Bank, Consolidated Equities Trust, LIV Fest, Spirit AeroSystems, Maximum Outdoor Equipment & Service Inc., FOX Kansas, Trust Company of Kansas, Total Printing Solutions, Naked City Magazine, The Forum Events Center, Northrock Lanes, Barry & Paula Downing, Ray Party Rental, Joe Luinstra, We Know Motion