Event returns Nov. 10-12 to local theaters ‘Friday the 13th’
writer to give keynote address
Morgan Hill – Organizers say this year’s Poppy Jasper Film Fest, returning Nov. 10 through 12 to local theaters, is “bigger and better” than ever.
“First of all, we’ve gone international this year,” said Kim Bush, chair of the successful Morgan Hill-based festival that started three years ago to spotlight California filmmakers. “We had such a demand from other filmmakers, e-mailing us saying, ‘Can we please enter your festival?’ that we thought we should open the doors this year.”
The festival will showcase 33 independent films by emerging producers, a panel of women in film and workshops on the ins and outs of movie art.Â
Victor Miller, a filmmaker with experience writing for “Friday the 13th” and television soap operas, will deliver the festival’s keynote address. Previous keynote speakers were Academy Award winning special effects director John Bruno (“The Abyss”) and editor Bud Smith (“The Exorcist”).Â
“It’s not just to see films you can’t see in a commercial theater, but you get to meet the filmmakers and learn about the processes,” Bush said.
Nine prizes will be awarded, including best in show, best female filmmaker and best student film.
Like the artists it promotes, Poppy Jasper itself is an up-and-comer, having surprisingly turned a profit in its first two outings. Another year in the black is expected, even with a record operating budget of $75,000.
The entries range from four to 44 minutes and will be shown in clusters at the Morgan Hill Community Playhouse at 17090 Monterey Road, the Granary at 1500 Depot St., and Cinelux Theaters at 750 Tennant Ave.Â
Festival passes cost $110. Screenings and workshops are also independently priced.Â
For more information or to buy tickets, visit poppyjasperfilmfest.org or call (408) 779-9444.
