2007 Special Programs
Sterling Award Feature Competition films – A distinguished selection of new documentaries from around the world that demonstrate a bold commitment to subject matter, excellence in cinematic craft and innovation in storytelling.
World View – A diverse and colorful collection of documentaries from the United States and abroad that uncover the thriving creative forces found in every corner of the world. Surveying the state of race, identity, imagination and amusement, these filmmakers provide a fresh, international perspective on the triumphs and struggles of our shared humanity.
Music Documentaries – The films in the Music Documentary section provide a front row seat and backstage pass to the personalities and the power of the creative process. Documentary captures the complex artistry, enthusiasm, imagination and inspiration of musicians like no other art form.
Short Film Programs – A selection of documentaries under 40 minutes that give the audience a concentrated dose of intellect, humor, passion, humanity and more.
In 2007, a special thematic program, Beyond Belief, will explore the intersection of religion and politics in film.
SPECIAL PROGRAMS
CHARLES GUGGENHEIM SYMPOSIUM
Named for the late four-time Academy Award® winner, Charles Guggenheim, the Symposium honors a filmmaker who has mastered the power of the documentary to capture current events and frame history with artistry and integrity, exhibiting passion and respect for a subject. The Symposium honors Guggenheim’s commitment to cinematic excellence, freedom of expression and democratic values. Legendary filmmaker Martin Scorsese was honored in 2006 and Barbara Kopple was honored in 2004.
This year, SILVERDOCS honors Jonathan Demme at the Guggenheim Symposium. Demme’s documentary work includes last year’s popular portrait of an American musical icon, NEIL YOUNG: HEART OF GOLD (2006); the Award-winning story of a Haitain journalist and human rights activist THE AGRONOMIST (2003); STOREFRONT HITCHCOCK (1998); COUSIN BOBBY (1992); SWIMMING TO CAMBODIA (1987); STOP MAKING SENSE (1984) and projects featuring Bruce Springsteen, New Order, Neil Young and the Fine Young Cannibals.
As part of the symposium, SILVERDOCS will screen a series of excerpts from Demme’s body of documentary work. Following the screening Demme will be joined on stage by special guests for a discussion of his career.
For more information on the 2007 Guggenheim Symposium on Thursday, June 14 click here.
SILVERDOCS 2007 will feature the following films by Jonathan Demme:
INTERNATIONAL PARTNERSHIPS
SILVERDOCS is a destination event for global media professionals through exhibition of great international films and special programs that foster cross-cultural communication and business development. A partnership with the French documentary market Sunny Side of the Doc linked filmmakers and funders from France, the US and Canada. The Festival’s “Celebrate South Africa!” program, created in partnership with Encounters documentary festival, brought a delegation of South African filmmakers to the Festival, and sent SILVERDOCS representatives to South Africa. In October of 2005, SILVERDOCS presented a selection of screenings and workshops in Johannesburg and Cape Town, South Africa, exploring how documentary film can engage, inspire and entertain audiences while encouraging social discourse and civic engagement.
INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY CONFERENCE (June 13 – 16, 2007)
The four-day Conference, held concurrently with the Festival, is attended by over 600 media professionals from over 21 countries. The conference features workshops, seminars and networking events, and serves those who are seeking to:
- explore the art of documentary storytelling
- understand the latest cross-platform funding, distribution and marketing models
- connect with leaders in the field
Former Vice President Al Gore gave the key-note speech at the 2006 Conference, and speakers from every major documentary media outlet regularly participate. A SILVERDOCS Industry Pass allows access to both Conference and film programs.
CLICK HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE 2007 INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY CONFERENCE
