The festival will show two feature documentaries: “A Place to Land,” and “Playing Columbine: a true story of video game controversy.” "A Place to Land" follows the journeys of homeless parrots in captivity across the nation, from foster homes in Northern Virginia to remote sanctuaries in Arizona and Utah. “Playing Columbine” explores how violence in media games is covered in the press, the school shooting phenomenon, and the future of games as an expressive medium. “Playing Columbine” will be followed by a panel discussion of the ethical dilemmas surrounding media games as a new type of experience to audiences - not just a banal space for battles and street fights - but a way to explore the world we live, including its violence. The feature films will be complemented by short PSAs made by Ballou Senior High School students. Take this opportunity not only to view interesting films but also to meet local student and semi-professional filmmakers. So come, enjoy the films, and increase your film repertoire!

The Schedule

4:00 – Commence in auditorium

*Welcome and introduction by Dr. Rippy, Professor of EN220 The Movie or the Book?

4:10 – Begin screening with first Ballou PSA
4:15 – Second PSA
4:20 – A Place to Land viewing
4:50 – Q&A session with Director, Lauren DeAngelis
5:10 – Break
5:40 – Recommence in auditorium

*Introduction to the second half of the Festival

5:45 – Third PSA
5:50 – Playing Columbine viewing (parts I and II only)
6:40 – Q&A with Director, Danny Ledonne
7:30 – Wrap up

*Closing comments by Dr. Rippy