Second Annual “Colorado Filmmakers, Colorado Stories” Program
Last year, OIFF curated a block of short films featuring strong connections to Colorado. After a completely sold out engagement in the historic Wright Opera House, the program came back by popular demand for an encore screening on the final day of the festival.
This year, “Colorado Filmmakers, Colorado Stories” will once again offer a diverse lineup of films that celebrate the people, history, and cultures of the Centennial State as well as projects helmed by artists with deep ties to Colorado.
“Some of these films showcase the beauty of Colorado. Others were shot by Colorado filmmakers telling global stories,” explains Jake Abell, co-director of the festival. “In each case, Colorado is represented in front of or behind the camera.”
This year’s lineup includes the latest project from Malakye Zaayin Tsosie, a filmmaker from the Navajo Nation and graduate of the University of Colorado Denver. Tsosie’s film “Yiyíistsʼą́ą́ʼ (Listen),” which recently screened at SXSW in Austin, shares the story of a radio station broadcasting in Díne Bizaad (the Navajo Language). “Shaped by Land,” directed by Emily Sullivan and shot by OIFF alumni Isaiah Boyle, features one of Greenland’s only Inuit ski guides.
Freddie Gluck’s “Gatorville,” which screened at the True/False documentary festival earlier this year, explores the childhood memories of a pair of siblings connected to a Colorado alligator sanctuary. Directed by Keely Kernan, “Cow Sense” follows a trio of sisters who challenge gender stereotypes within the ranching communities of Southern Colorado. Rounding out the program is Lindsey Hagen’s “Rodeo on Ice.” The six-minute short film is a joyful celebration of skijoring, a winter sport much beloved in Southwest Colorado featuring skiers pulled by horseback riders.
“We were thrilled to see the Wright Opera House completely full at last year’s Colorado block,” adds festival co-director Jared LaCroix. “It was pure joy, and we can’t wait for the energy of this year’s program.”
Several filmmakers will be in attendance for the program, which will take place on the evening of June 20th (Saturday). Those looking to attend “Colorado Filmmakers, Colorado Stories” can purchase a pass on the festival website. Individual tickets may become available if inventory allows closer to the event.