All of us who live along the shores of the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries have experienced our cherished waterways and reveled in the landscapes and wildlife that has helped define and shape of our character and identity for generations. Protecting these natural resources is a cause that has long united Americans from all walks of life and political stripes. To hunters, anglers, hikers, birders, wildlife watchers, boaters, climbers, campers, cyclists, gardeners, farmers, Chesapeake Bay stewards, and other outdoor enthusiasts, this conservation ethic has evolved and is now integral to our Maryland heritage. As Marylanders we share a sacred duty and obligation to protect and build upon our conservation heritage in the Chesapeake region for the sake of wildlife, ourselves, our neighbors and, most of all, for future generations.
From our inception in 2012, the Annapolis Film Festival has always been committed to providing an Environmental Showcase as part of our essential programming. These films often have expert panel discussion following with some highly esteemed speakers. We have shown films such as The Biggest Little Farm by John Chester, now nominated for an Academy Award, Climate Change: A Few Degrees Different with Jeffrey Sachs, The Islands and the Whales, The Last Bay Scallop by Director John Stanton, Ocean Stories: Greg Stone, Hawks in the City, and Watershed produced and directed by Robert Redford, and Atomic Homefront about toxic nuclear waste dumps. We have also covered subjects such as the impact of nitrogen runoff, rising temperatures in the world's oceans, oyster recovery, cleaning the oceans and more.
The Annapolis Film Festival, its affiliates, and its partners fill a unique niche in bringing the voice of wildlife and habitat into the community dialogue through the art of film. We have the gravitas now, after eight years of growth, to bring the latest and most relevant stories to our community. It is our hope that sharing these impactful stories will awaken and inspire others to take action.
Annapolis is the sailing capital of the United States and home of the U.S. Naval Academy and the Sailing Hall of Fame, therefore, we would be remiss not to showcase the best films in boating and sailing each year. From daring solo sails, to competitive regattas and the Rolex race around the world, see fellow sailors navigating and cruising around the world in this popular showcase each year. This showcase offers many different views of life on the ocean. Each year, we gather top sailing gurus both local and from afar to lead us in a Q&A following the film. Hosted by local Annapolitan and sailor Gary Jobson, (former ESPN sailing correspondent) the conversation is relevant to everyone, but landlubbers.
Each year AFF proudly presents the African American Experience Showcase featuring some of the most topical issues from new or just-released films. Inspirational and provocative films that exemplify black life in America will be screened and discussed providing a glimpse into the changing face of the African American experience today. Tolerance and understanding of often unheard perspectives can be appreciated by all who choose to participate in this film experience. The panel which follows the film’s screening is carefully curated and moderated by our esteemed guests who will lead the discussion regarding the director’s vision, style, structure, storytelling and impact of the film with the audience. Following the panel discussion, the audience is invited to interact and ask questions. Tickets or passes include the panel with special guests.
What could be better than bagels, lox and coffee on a Sunday morning before watching two feature blocks that honor the Jewish experience? AFF presents the Jewish Experience Showcase that shines it's light on Jewish traditions, accomplishments and life. Humor and fellowship abound as people gather an hour before the first screening in the lobby of St. John's Key Auditorium to enjoy a complimentary breakfast before the first film. A breakfast voucher will be provided when you purchase your ticket or show your pass. The film will be followed by a panel discussion with a special guest who will discuss the film and the impact of the film with the audience. Each movie ticket is $15. for the first or second screening and your ticket and/or pass includes the *breakfast. The second screening requires a second $15, ticket or festival pass. Food is first come, first served, seating is general admission unless you have an all access, premium or industry pass.
Each year, AFF offers a “free to the public” event called the Student Showcase which takes place on Sunday afternoon at Annapolis Elementary School on Green Street. It highlights some of the best work created by emerging filmmakers today. See films directed by high schoolers to graduate students showcasing some of the best short films made by students each year. Many of the young filmmakers will be on hand to at the end of the screening to experience what a Q&A is like with an audience, sometimes for the first time.
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