Winthrop Rockefeller Institute to host first film forum

Noted Hollywood Insiders to Teach on Petit Jean Mountain

The Winthrop Rockefeller Institute will host its first Film Forum entitled, “Adventures in the Art of Filmmaking,” on March 8-11, 2012 at the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute atop Petit Jean Mountain in Arkansas.

The Film Forum is open to everyone, from film professionals, professors and students to enthusiasts seeking a better understanding of the art, craft, and business of film. This Film Forum will bring together an outstanding assembly of well-known actors, directors, producers, screenwriters, and acting coaches to explore the many facets of American filmmaking spanning 40 years. The faculty members include Robert Walden (Happily Divorced, Lou Grant), Lea Thompson (Back to the Future, Caroline in the City, Edgar), director Howard Deutch (Pretty in Pink, Some Kind of Wonderful), director and teacher, Joan Darling (Mary Hartman, M*A*S*H, Mary Tyler Moore Show); foremost acting coach and teacher, Sandra Seacat; screenwriter Bill Svanoe (Six Million Dollar Man); OSCAR-winning producer, Fred Roos (Godfather Part II, Apocalypse Now), and documentarian, Craig Renaud (On the Front Lines of Film Journalism), who founded The Little Rock Film Festival. Plus -- some surprise guests.

The Film Forum is a not-to-be missed event for Arkansas’s burgeoning film community as well as film lovers from around the region.” said Robert Walden. This Forum offers a unique chance for aspiring filmmakers and enthusiasts to gain insights and sharpen their skills for three days with an array of remarkable talents in a magical setting.”

Participants can observe and engage in hands-on workshops with the faculty focused on screenwriting, directing the actor, and enhancing the actor’s performance. Show Barn Panel Discussions – open to the general public – will feature: Women in Film, On the Front Lines of Film Journalism, How to Do Shakespeare, A Producer’s Perspective on Forty Years of Filmmaking, and much more. Aspiring actors will also have the chance to audition for the faculty before a public audience.

Walden says, "Ultimately film shapes, reflects, and changes our culture. It is as powerful and inspiring as any art form can be. Here is the rare chance to actually meet and interact with some of the people who have affected us all. I urge you to find a way to get here."

Christy Carpenter, WRI's chief executive officer says, “With this Film Forum, the Winthrop Rockefeller Institute is launching a new series of weekend experiences designed for people keen to delve more deeply into artistic, cultural, and intellectual interest.” Carpenter continued, "Governor Rockefeller believed strongly in the power of the arts to lift the human spirit, and we're thrilled to kick-off the first of these weekend programs with a rich and imaginative program focused on film. We anticipate an extraordinary experience for all who come."

NOTE: Those interested in participating in the Film Forum have four different pricing options: a full package with lodging for $750 (single occupancy) or $650 (double occupancy); full package without lodging for $450; a university student package (a current student identification is required) with lodging for $500 or without lodging for $250; and, a la carte tickets for each Show Barn Panel Discussions for $35. Space is limited so advance online registration is required at www.livethelegacy.org. For more information, visit the website or contact Angie York at 501-727-6257.