Cinequest Embodies the True Maverick Spirit

Official Response to Samuel A. Maverick Family's Indignation at the McCain/Palin Political Usurpation of the Theme "Maverick"

Oct 09, 2008 A film institute dedicated to championing independent-minded artists and innovators from around the globe, Cinequest continues to manifest the vision and theme it’s served for eighteen years: “Empowering the Maverick”. Cinequest uses the medium of film to unearth stories considered too controversial, unlock new realms of story-telling through new technologies and democratize access to filmmaking and film viewing. Cinequest, inspired by Samuel A. Maverick and those Americans who fulfill the legacy of being independent individuals, believes it has honorably fulfilled the spirit of the Maverick that has marked the best of American innovation and art.

Founders Halfdan Hussey and Kathleen Powell with Program Director Mike Rabehl passionately drive an institute that dares cross the grain of traditional filmmaking, exhibition and distribution. Over the 18-year history, Cinequest has stirred souls via its world renowned Cinequest Film Festival, Cinequest Filmmaking and Innovation Forums and Cinequest Distribution. Each year, Cinequest bestows its Maverick Spirit Awards on film artists and innovators whose work and lives represent the truly independent. Past recipients have included: Desmond Doss (American Hero and Congressional Medal of Honor Recipient), Emmanuel Yeboah (inspirational subject of the film Emmanuels’ Gift--featured on The Oprah Winfrey Show), William H. Macy, Sir Ben Kingsley, Spike Lee, and Kevin Spacey.

Empowering the Maverick

Cinequest, a premiere film institute, produces:

Cinequest Film Festival: a discovery festival of Maverick films and innovations that was recently named the Top 10 festival in the world by the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide.
Cinequest Distribution empowers Maverick films & fans via leading Internet, Internet TV & DVD.
Mentoring and Education: groundbreaking programs for elementary through college students.
Cinequest serves Maverick artists, innovators, film lovers and students. www.cinequest.org