Wednesday, October 31, 2007

RockDoc

The power chord remains after forty years a very familiar sound associated with rock music. It is simple to play and sounds that dig their hooks in. However, it can be repetitive and today, it seems that it is being overused. Besides rock music, we intend to see just how versatile the power chord is and how many styles of music can it be found in. We have traced the history of the power chord back to the 1950’s with a rock song called “Rumble” by Link Wray. We are interested in looking at the social implications of the power chord as well. Through interviews with local bands, along with b-roll footage of their performances, a possible animation sequence, a presentation of exactly what the power chord it and demonstrations on the street to show how simply the power chord can be played, we are exploring the power chord and see just what it is all about. With live performances, interviews, and animations we plan to show the many views on the powerchord.

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Big Sky

Big Sky is a five-year-old documentary film festival held in Missoula, Montana held during mid-February (14-20, 2008). The festival only accepts documentary projects and last year received around 1000 entries for the roughly 100 available spots. Filmmakers can apply through Big Sky's own entry form or they can submit their work through Withoutabox. Applications deadlines and prices are: Mini-doc - <15min.>50min
Early: July 1 Mini-$20, Short-$25, Feature-$35
Regular: September 1 Mini-$25, Short-$35, Feature-$45
Final: October 20 Mini-$35, Short-$45, Feature-$55

Festival Passes are $100 for all screening and $250 for the screenings and parties pass. The festival is friendly towards all formats of presentation. They screen 35mm and have also screened a doc made w/ a digital still camera set to movie mode. They welcome "experimental" films (at least in the website). However, there is no discount for student films (though in 2004 a student was the winner). The festival will not provide for travel or lodging, but will help w/ food and alcohol expenses (and a free passes). Seems like a friendly festival in a beautiful valley.