Tickets for the 19th Annual Whitaker St. Louis Filmmakers Showcase are now available, with this year’s features ranging from full-length films and documentaries to multi-film compilations and documentary shorts.
The Showcase, a presentation of the nonprofit Cinema St. Louis, is as the area’s primary venue for works written, directed, edited or produced by local artists or films with strong local ties.
Cinema St. Louis artistic director Chris Clark tells Gazelle participating filmmakers represent all threads of the rich tapestry that make up the St. Louis arts community.
“This year, a record-breaking 151 films were received from which 113 films were selected,” Clark said, noting that people from all walks of life, age, gender, race and skill level compete toe-to-toe for screening slots in the Showcase. “The pool is deep and the waters are hot—so many passionate storytellers and lovers of cinema!”
Clark says the films are watched, reviewed and evaluated on a variety of levels, including technical expertise, originality of story/subject and consideration of potential audience. He adds the most important aspect is if the film is something that Cinema St. Louis, as an organization, would be proud to show to local audiences.
“I want films that are sparkling examples of the cinematic arts, whether by seasoned professionals, students or first-time filmmakers who have a desire to tell a story as a moving picture,” Clark explained. “I try to keep the process as objective as possible, with the goal of including as many local filmmakers and expatriates as possible. But in the end, only the worthy pass the gauntlet. All the flash and money and special effects in the world do not matter one bit if the resulting story is not of sufficient substance, merit or quality.”
The 19 films that serve as the Showcase’s centerpiece will be screened at Washington University’s Brown Hall from July 12 to 14 and July 19 to 21. Many of the screenings include a Q&A with filmmakers following the show.
“The overall quality of the films is insanely impressive. Half of the films to be shown this year are documentaries covering a vast range of subjects and topic, with most of the participating filmmakers new to the event and over 40 percent of films made by women,” Clark noted. “St. Louis loves the arts, and anyone willing to take a chance on up-and-coming local filmmakers and their stories will be delighted and empowered by the experience.”
Among this year’s Showcase highlights:
A New Leaf: Reimagining Henry Shaw’s Museum: After more than a century of decline, Henry Shaw’s museum is once again open to the public at the Missouri Botanical Garden following a multi-million-dollar restoration. The film chronicles the painstaking effort to bring Shaw’s museum back to its original glory. Directed by Paul Schankman.
The Ghost Who Walks: Shot in St. Louis by former Showcase award-winner Cody Stokes, “The Ghost Who Walks” is a breathlessly paced ride through the hidden underbelly of the city. After five years in prison, Nolan (Garland Scott) is given his freedom, but his release required that he rat on his former boss — a betrayal that carries a death sentence.
Road to the Pros: An inside look at the St. Louis amateur boxing scene. Providing a lively and informative overview, the film interviews past and current trainers and a host of up-and-coming boxers of all races and ages. Directed by Earl McWilliams Jr.
Through the Cracks: In July 2002, Johnny Johnson was arrested and charged with the abduction and murder of 6-year-old Cassandra Williamson in Valley Park, Missouri, and the effects of the crime continue to reverberate in the community. Directed by Ben Scholle.
Path of the Past: The subject’s grandson tells the incredible true story of Pocahontas, Illinois; Louis “Louch” Baczewski, a tank-crew member who miraculously survived the perilous journey through all five major campaigns of World War II’s European Theater.
Documentary Shorts: Three programs of outstanding documentary shorts offer inspiring and intimate portraits of our city and its inhabitants.
Experimental Shorts: Seventeen riveting experimental shorts are featured in this annual favorite Showcase program
Narrative Shorts: A wide array of filmmakers of all ages present new fiction works.
The Showcase also hosts a free closing-night awards party on Sunday, July 21, at Blueberry Hill’s Duck Room. That night, Cinema St. Louis will announce the Showcase films chosen for inclusion in the St. Louis International Film Festival, and juried awards for the best Showcase films will be given. The party includes complimentary Urban Chestnut beer and a cash bar are available for attendees 21 or older.
Tickets for screenings on July 12 to 21 at Brown Hall are $13 each, and $10 for students with valid and current photo ID and for Cinema St. Louis members with valid membership cards. The closing-night awards party is free and does not require tickets.
For more information, visit cinemastlouis.org
