Geena Davis has an amazing project in the works. The ‘Thelma & Louise’ fan favorite is launching a film festival dedicated to supporting women and diversity in Film.
The Bentonville Film Festival (abbreviated as BFF) will be the first festival to guarantee theatrical, digital and retail home entertainment distribution for winning films. Mark your calendars, for May 5-9th 2015 and head to Arkansas city. Geena will chair the event, welcoming Angela Bassett, Bruce Dern, Samuel L. Jackson, Randy Jackson, Eva Longoria, Julianne Moore, Paula Patton, Natalie Portman, Nina Tassler and Shailene Woodley among the Board of Advisors.
From there, winners from three categories will be chosen: Winner of the Audience, Jury Selection and Best Family Film. Those awards will get a distribution agreement with a guaranteed traditional theatrical release on at least 25 screens, via the AMC chain.
“I have been an advocate for women for most of my adult life,” Davis explained. “The Geena Davis Institute on Gender in Media is dedicated to improving the representation in gender and diversity of talent, filmmakers, and business leaders by growing awareness through research, education and advocacy. The Bentonville Film Festival is a critical component of how we can directly impact the quantity and quality of females and minorities on screen and behind-the scenes.”
Film submissions for the festival will open on Jan. 15, 2015, with films accepted into competition being announced in March 2015.
The festival will also include and award show filled with stars and host multiple panel discussions with celebrities and industry leaders. You can also enjoy family film night events that will be free to the public!