Editor

ORINDA FILM FESTIVAL 2005 BEGINS THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 22
AND RUNS THROUGH SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 25

The landmark Orinda Theater, 4 Theater Square, showcases a diverse array of
original, independent films beginning Thursday, September 22nd extending through Sunday, September 25th. The Orinda Film Festival, now in its 4th year, features films from around the world that challenge, educate and inspire audiences of all ages. Over four days, 140 films will be shown, from narrative features and shorts to documentaries, animation and experimental films. Student works are always highlighted with young filmmakers coming in from around the globe, including Northern Ireland.

“The Blue Butterfly,” starring William Hurt, opens the Festival on September 22nd with the real-life story of a boy who recovers from late- stage cancer after traveling to the Amazon jungle in search of a magic blue butterfly. David Marenger, whose story inspired “The Blue Butterfly,” will be interviewed, with the movie’s producer, following the screening. The film is being provided through the courtesy of Monterey Media.

In keeping with the movie’s theme, sculptures of blue butterflies by local artists will be auctioned off during the event. All proceeds for Opening Night will benefit The Children’s Hospital and Research Center in Oakland.

On Saturday, September 24th, CinemaSport is sponsoring an innovative filmmaking contest inviting 20 teams of movie-makers to write, produce and edit a 3-minute film in just 10 hours. All teams will be given a list of special “ingredients” to incorporate into their films, beginning at 9:00 AM on Saturday. Films will be screened that evening at the Orinda Theater. The contest is a festival first, and promises outrageous and creative results.

Everyone is invited to “Meet the Filmmakers” party to be held on Saturday, September 24th, beginning at 6:30 PM, in the Orinda Library Rotunda. Cost for the Filmmaker’s Party, attended by directors and producers, is $40.00.

Tickets can be purchased online at www.orindafilmfestival.org. A Gold Pass for
$200 covers all film screenings and special events. Individual program tickets are available at a cost of $9.00 for adults and $6.00 for seniors and students.

“Community corporate sponsorship packages are still available,” says Randy
Holleschau who is Founder and Executive Director of the Orinda Film Festival, a non-profit 501.(c)3 corporation. Holleschau is widely credited for expanding the arts in his hometown and was named “Citizen of the Year” for 2005.

Please contact Jan St. John at (415) 847-4627, janstjohn@neteze.com, for
more information on the Festival and to schedule interviews with filmmakers.

NOTE: Logo plus Photos from past festivals are online at www.orindafilmfestival under
PRESS (click on "downloads")