Each film was hand picked by the festival jury from over 2,000 entries submitted directly by the filmmakers. Mo , a film directed by Brian Lederman, is being honored as one of the Festival's Centerpiece Films (Sat, 7:30 p.m.).
“We feel that Mo is consistent with the mission of the festival,” says David Katz, Festival Producer. “It is a unique and compelling story told in a way that everyone can relate to.”
Additionally, the festival will screen the world premiere of Gideon Raff's directorial debut The Killing Floor (Sat, 9:30 p.m.) as the Festival's succeeding Centerpiece Film. “ The Killing Floor hits every aspect you look for in a thriller,” Katz adds.
Past Festival Honorees have included Pierce Brosnan, James Cameron, Charles Bronson, Nick Nolte and Brett Ratner.
The Festival kicks off with a celebratory Opening Night party at the Writers Boot Camp, located in the Bergamont Station Arts Center featuring DJ Jason Bentley of KCRW (9:30 p.m.; $20). Complimentary beer, wine, spirits and hors d'oeuvres will be provided. It wraps up with the Geoffrey's Malibu Awards Night Dinner Party (6 p.m.; $100).
The closing night festivities honor the award-winning films and filmmakers of the 2007 Malibu International Film Festival. (Jacket, tie and upscale cocktail attire are required.)
Also, you can join Writers Boot Camp founder Jeffrey Gordon for a Mini-Camp: a candid, comprehensive discussion on commonly held fallacies about writing for film and television. It's free and helpful for writers of all levels and genres. Mini-Camp will be held Sunday, April 15 at 10 a.m. at Aero Theater.
Screenings take place at the American Cinematheque's Aero Theater at 1328 Montana Avenue in Santa Monica. $10. For more information, visit www.malibufilmfestival.org .