Film

Jeff Koons is widely regarded as one of the most influential, popular and disputed artists of the last 30 years. This film will show the hidden mechanisms lying behind the person, the artist and the Koons brand. It’s an intimate exploration of Jeff Koon’s consciousness aiming to discover what motivates him and shapes his incomparable vision. With exclusive access to the Koons family home in York, Pennsylvania, the documentary investigates Koons’ roots and everyday life, follows him to New York City to his vast studio where tens of painters, sculptors and graphic designers are based, and then on to Qatar and Europe, to the Greek island of Hydra during his 2021 five exhibitions tour. Among the other works, the documentary shows "Play Doh," "Puppy," "Balloon dog," "Banality," "Michael Jackson and Bubbles," "Tulips," "Lobster," "Pink Panther," "Bracelet," "Cracked Egg," "New Hoover Convertible" and the contributions of the Koons family members, curators, gallery owners and artists such as Julian Schnabel.

In ANSELM, Wim Wenders creates a portrait of Anselm Kiefer, one of the most innovative and important painters and sculptors of our time. Shot in 3D and 6K-resolution, the film presents a cinematic experience of the artist’s work which explores human existence and the cyclical nature of history, inspired by literature, poetry, philosophy, science, mythology and religion. For over two years, Wenders traced Kiefer’s path from his native Germany to his current home in France, connecting the stages of his life to the essential places of his career that spans more than five decades. Wim Wenders has made significant contributions to world cinema and visual arts. Wenders is noted for his skillful blend of fiction and documentary filmmaking. His road movies, such as PARIS, TEXAS (1984) and THE AMERICAN FRIEND (1977), demonstrate his fascination with landscapes and the human condition. He also directed notable documentaries, including BUENA VISTA SOCIAL CLUB (1999), which celebrated Cuban music, and PINA (2011), a 3D tribute to the choreographer Pina Bausch. Wenders' influence extends beyond the screen, as he has also been a strong advocate for the preservation of cinema heritage. He served as the president of the European Film Academy and has been involved in various initiatives to protect and restore classic films.

The ASFI Future in Films Festival is a single day cultural event celebrating the artistic and technical achievements of young (13-18 years old) filmmakers from South Florida. Taking place in Miami, the event consists of short film screenings, filmmaker Q&As, and an opportunity for young filmmakers to network. In addition to acknowledging and celebrating South Florida's up-and-coming cinematic talent, the event aims to connect the arts community as well as the local industry with the plethora of talented youth available throughout South Florida, in an effort to create mentorship and development opportunities for young filmmakers interested in pursuing a career in the industry. The event also aims to create a network of young filmmakers and parents who all share a passion and desire to create artistic cinema at a variety of levels, nurturing young filmmakers to continue to create and develop together across the region, and showing parents the importance of community involvement and partnership in the development of their young artists. This event seeks to build on the great work being done by local film institutions by including and highlighting the work and talent of young artists throughout South Florida and making these works available to the community. In giving these young artists a platform, as well as inviting industry professionals to participate in the event, ASFI hopes to foster a mentorship culture between notable industry figures in South Florida and young artists yearning to create and participate in the larger industry. It is our goal that this event will result in ongoing relationships between student filmmakers, parents, industry professionals, and local productions; the sustained goal remains in line with ASFI's mission of constructing mentorship and professional guidance pipelines from local public schools and youth organizations to the larger industry. ASFI in partnership with FIU, will hold the festival at the FIU Biscayne Bay Campus. Event doors will open at 9:00 AM with the shorts block screening beginning at 9:30 AM, with a total estimated runtime of 60 minutes, followed by a 20-30 minute Q&A with the audience and participating filmmakers. Because the event will be during a school day, ASFI will supply buses for some underserved schools. This festival is a special event for student filmmakers to gather together and celebrate their films, their present, and their future.

Miami Film Festival is a world-class platform for International, American, and Ibero-American films. The special 41st edition of the Miami Film Festival will take place from April 5-14, 2024 and include almost 100 feature films. The Festival showcases the work of the world’s best emerging and established filmmakers to the diverse cosmopolitan community of Miami.

Florida Premiere | Directed by Ari Folman Israel-Luxembourg | 99 minutes | 2022 In this enchanting animated tale for all ages by Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Ari Folman, a teenage girl embarks on a magical journey to find Anne Frank.

A selection of films that venture into the ethereal realms of human imagination and consciousness. These films intricately weave narratives that challenge the boundaries of reality, delving into the enigmatic dreamlike landscapes, subconscious thoughts, altered states of mind, and circumstances beyond normal. Through mesmerizing visuals and unconventional storytelling, “Beyond the Veil” transcends the ordinary, offering audiences a journey that blurs the line between the tangible and the intangible, is it just fantasy or not?

These screenings encapsulate films that courageously delve into the intricate landscape of human apprehensions. These films artfully navigate the labyrinth of anxious thoughts and emotions that often haunt individuals. With poignant narratives “Worries” unveils the internal battles, paralyzing uncertainties, and emotional vulnerability that come with anxiety. Through evocative storytelling, these films offer a window into the minds of those grappling with their fears, shedding light on the isolating nature of worry and the profound impact it has on one’s life.

A selection of films that explores the intense dynamics of human conflict and confrontation. These films explore the myriad facets of discord, whether they stem from personal differences, social tensions, or ideological clashes. With gripping narratives and compelling characters, “Confrontation” delves into the complexities of confrontations, capturing the raw emotions, ethical dilemmas, and moral struggles that unfold when individuals are pitted against each other.

This selection of films represents a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of cinema. These films showcase the creative prowess of emerging young filmmakers who bring innovative techniques, bold narratives, and imaginative storytelling to the forefront.Through their lens, audiences are transported into worlds that challenge conventions, blend genres, and experiment with visual aesthetics.

Join us for an electrifying night as we celebrate the crème de la crème of Florida film talent at the Best of Fest 2023! Bringing together all the previous monthly winners, this event promises a showcase of the finest cinematic gems.