The Arizona International Film Festival will kick off its 17th season today with “”Hollywood Chinese,”” a documentary that chronicles how Chinese people are portrayed in American films. The festival prides itself on bringing award-winning and edgy films to Arizona, like “”Hollywood Chinese,”” which won the Taipei Golden Horse award for best documentary.
Here’s a brief synopsis of some other films that might pique your interest:
“”Father G and the Homeboys””
When you think of East L.A. you probably think of gangs and violence. Father Gregory Boyle (“”Father G””) started a non-profit organization called Homeboys Industries to try to change this reputation. For more than 20 years he has been helping people from low-income families plan for their futures and careers instead of choosing gang life.
This documentary specifically follows four Latino gang members as they struggle in Father G’s program to get out of the gang system. Filmmakers John Bohm and Pete Tapia will introduce the film and one of the homeboys will make a guest appearance.
Tomorrow, 8 p.m. The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress St.
“”The Ostrich Testimonies””
This is the unabridged story about the Rooster Cogburn Ostrich Ranch at Picacho Peak. We all pass it on our way to Phoenix; if you’ve stopped in then you’ve probably met the Cogburns themselves who work and run the place. D.C. Cogburn set out to build an ostrich empire, but wandering hot air balloons caused a stampede, confusing the ostrich hierarchy and killing many. Now the ranch has been forced to create new attractions, such as the laurekeet aviary and hay rides. Learn about the effects of the accident, the aftermath and the future of the Ostrich Ranch. Filmmaker Jonathan VanBallenberghe will present his film to the audience.
Saturday, 7:30 p.m. Grand Cinemas Crossroads 6, 4811 E. Grant Road
“”Wiener Takes All””
This dogumentary gives you an inside look into the exciting world of competitive dachshund racing. I bet you didn’t even know this existed! Luckily for you, it’ll be free to watch and pets are welcome to La Placita, on the southwest corner of West Broadway Boulevard and South Church Avenue for an open-air screening Thursday, April 24 at 7:30 p.m.
“”The Linguists””
Scientists Dave and Greg race to document rare languages that are becoming extinct. They must fully immerse themselves in the cultures and communities that use these languages – and learn more than new words from the people they encounter. A panel discussion will follow the screening, in case you’re not sure what the implications of a dying language are.
Friday, April 25, 7:30 p.m. Tucson Chinese Cultural Center, 1288 W. River Road
“”Made in L.A.””
Did you think that just because a sweatshop is in the states it ensures basic protections for its workers? Think again. This film chronicles three Latina immigrants working in Los Angeles garment sweatshops and fighting for basic workers rights, including their boycott of Forever 21. Meet the faces of the people who make your American-made clothing and hear about the grueling working conditions that bring you a miniskirt for $5. Filmmaker Almudena Carracedo will introduce the film.
Friday, April 25, 8 p.m. The Screening Room
“”Circus Rosaire””
Modern forms of entertainment have reduced interest in a form of entertainment that nine generations of the Rosaire family have specialized in: the circus. This documentary shows us the ins and outs of a real circus family and how they compete with television and YouTube. Filmmakers Robyn Bliley and Chad Wilson will introduce the film.
Saturday, April 26, 3 p.m. Grand Cinemas Crossroads
For a complete listing of films and events go to www.filmfestivalarizona.org.
If you’re planning on attending a lot of these events, passes are available that allow you admission to the screenings, workshops and special events surrounding many of the films. Passes can be purchased at The Screening Room, 127 E. Congress St., or at any festival exhibition site. Regular ticket prices per screening are $8. Call 882-0204 for pass and ticket information.
