
Jerome McDonnell of WBEZ’s Worldview will MC the opening night ceremony and throughout there will be opportunities to meet the filmmakers in Q&A sessions and forums interspersing and running parallel to the films. Drop by any time during the festival for a breather from the apocalyptic media coverage of the “democracy show” for some real stories and events that are rarely mentioned in prime time. You can visit the festival’s website at http://peaceonearthfilmfestival.org/2016-peace-on-earth-film-festival/ for more information about film showings and which films are family friendly and accessible.
On Friday night, for instance, at 7:45, Gordon Quinn and a fifty year documentary history of Kartemquin Films will be honored after a screening of a short directed by Gordon. Again, the event is FREE and is a worthwhile visit to the downtown.
The backstory to Wishbone’s support of the festival centers on a “regular” often using the back room during the day for correspondence over Red Eggs or Black Bean Cakes. His name is Nick Angotti, founder and director of the festival, whose activism began in 1970- in the wake of the Kent State shootings. An established actor for over 25 years, Nick has done the commercial route of guest starring in 50 television shows, a dozen features (with actors ranging from James Earl Jones to Bruce Willis and Walter Matthau) . . . and hundreds of commercials. In a second life, Nick’s calling led to ministerial studies while continuing as a producer of engaged TV mini-series like the 9-part “Season for Nonviolence” about Chicago youth community centers that make a difference. The Peace on Earth Film Festival has continued to grow and continues to be a vital showplace for the general public and for continuing work in bringing films and relevant issues to public schools in the Chicago area.
Once again, the festival begins NEXT Thursday and is only a short El ride away. Taking time out, like sitting for a meal, is all part of a mindfulness and sharing that is part of the journey for peace.
In Nick’s words,
“One of the purposes of this festival is to bring to light films that are often challenged to find exhibition and to contribute to a culture of peace through international cinema, dialogue and programming highlighting individuals on the vanguard of peace activism and social change.”