The GardenState film Festival is gearing up for it’s 9th year. This year’s festival weekend will feature 150 films shown in 5 locations over its 4 day run, along with a casting call with Talent Agent Renate English, Seminars with the Stars and Career Makers including Steve Sabol, President of NFL Films and Lainie Kazan, Movie, tv, music and Broadway star, lavish parties and networking with film makers, producers and actors.nnHonorees Include:n– Honorary Chairperson, John Lloyd, President of Meridian Health Caren– Spirit of NJ Clarence Clemons of Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Bandn– Beacon Award Lainie Kazan, Movie, TV, Music and Broadway Starn– Lifetime Achievement Award-Steve Sabol, President of NFL Filmsn– Plus-Ann Reinking acclaimed BroadwayStar and Choreographer &n– Michael Uslan, Executive Producer of the Batman Movie Seriesn– Ronnie Marmo, General Hospitaln nThe Festival officially begins Friday April 1st with the traditional Gala Cocktail Party in the Arcade on the Boardwalk and guests immediately enter the historic Paramount Theater for the screening of “Expecting Mary” (A Very Mary Christmas), a sweet comedy that features an all star cast, including Lainie Kazan, Linda Gray, Cloris Leachman, Cybill Shepherd, Gene Simmons, Fred Willard and Della Reese.nnThe festival continues on Saturday and Sunday, beginning with a 9am casting call with Talent Manager Renate English, Seminars including;”How to get into SAG” “The Nfl Films Story” with Steve Sabol, “Stories from the Star” with Lainie Kazan, “Understanding Marfan’s” with Ann Reinking and “Reel Women of Film” a historic perspective on the first woman director. Simultaneously,150 films will be screened in 5 different Asbury Park locations and at the Axelrod Theater in neighboring Deal. Some of these films include “Jackie Robinson- My Story”, a critically acclaimed first person docu-drama by award winning film maker Marino Amoruso, West of Brooklyn” and “Limbo Lounge” from General Hospital’s Ronnie Marmo, and “My First Guitar” a documentary love song to the instrument with appearances from Les Paul, Slash, Bill Wyman, Jeff Lynne, Peter Frampton and a huge cast of other musicians. The film comes via producer Nick Mead, who also brings us “Who Do I Think I Am” the Clarence Clemons bio on his spiritual journey throughout China, which screens on Saturday evening.nn”We are extremely pleased with all we have to offer everyone and welcome all to attend.” Says Diane Raver, Executive Director of the GSFF. “Every year its as if the heavens shower us with exciting films, amazing celebrities and the chance to promote the creative arts. This year is really turning out to be a standout, thanks to the diverse collection of honorees and films. We are also delighted to have John Lloyd and the Meridian Health Care team with us this year, who believe that good health and creative self expression have a direct link. While the economy has been tough, we are so grateful that people are still eager to join us for this very special weekend. ” nnTickets for the Festival are available on the website www.gsff.org. Friday night gala cocktail party and film, $25, individual screening passes for a two hour block of films, $10 or an all access weekend pass, which includes the Friday night gala, just $50nn
nnAbout The Garden State Film FestivalnThe Garden State Film Festival is a 501c corporation, founded 9 years ago after a chance meeting of Diane Raver and the late actor Robert Pastorelli in a shore grocery store. Mr. Pastorelli and Ms. Raver were able to bring the Garden State Film Festival to life at it’s successful premiere in 2003. Since that time, such industry notables such as Glenn Close, Frank Vincent, Batman producer Michael Uslan, Austin Pendleton, Kurtwood Smith, James Gandolfini, Budd Schulberg and others have lent their support. nnGSFF is an all-volunteer, non-profit organization held in the spring of each year at the Paramount Theater/Convention Hall complex as well as other venues in Asbury Park, New Jersey and surrounding area. In addition to all the culture it brings, the festival is a great economic spur to travel and tourism and remains rooted in the celebration of the independent film genre and a receptive place to showcase their work. In addition, the event provides novice and aspiring filmmakers, actors, and others interested in a career in the film business, the opportunity to meet and network with industry professionals in an atmosphere that is conducive to learning and mentoring. Visit Our Website at www.gsff.org.For more information about the Garden State Film Festival please visit www.gsff.org or call 1-877-908-7050. Lori Draz Contact Lori via email
ABC Fine Wine and Spirits Embraces Dry January With Cheeky New Ad Campaign
Bacon & Eggs, the creative shop known for its witty, imaginative and disruptive advertising, has created an innovative campaign for ABC Fine Wine and Spirits that playfully tackles the Dry January's impact on its business head-on. Through the campaign, Florida's largest family-owned wine and spirits retailer proudly proclaims its support for Dry January even as it shares its extensive selection of wines, spirits, premixed cocktails and beers found within 127 stores across the state. In the campaign's signature spot, ABC Fine Wine and Spirits cheekily announces its enthusiastic support for Dry January, then proceeds to describe its tantalizing array of velvety cabernets, perfectly frosted IPAs, and smooth whiskeys — all while insisting, of course, that viewers "definitely shouldn't" indulge in these libations during the month. "Most alcohol retailers either push non-alcoholic alternatives or go quiet during Dry January," explains Kia Zomorrodi, founder and chief creative officer of Bacon & Eggs. "We wanted to flip the script and create something that would resonate with both those participating in Dry January and those who aren't. The campaign's reverse psychology approach lets ABC own the conversation while showcasing its impressive selection in an entertaining way." The campaign arrives as ABC Fine Wine and Spirits aims to maintain brand engagement during a traditionally quiet period for alcohol sales. "This campaign perfectly captures our brand personality while acknowledging the reality of Dry... Read More