tcff films slowly being unveiled

The Twin Cities Film Festival is taking their sweet time announcing the lineup for their inaugural fest taking place this month.  Just recently they announced the films in their Mexican Cinema program, and their opening film is Waiting For "Superman," a documentary on the state of education in the United States.  That seems like an interesting choice for an opening film, considering the movie will be showing at area Landmark theaters around the same time.  But in any case, the $25 ticket will get you access to the opening night party as well as a chance to hear the director speak and answer questions before and after the film.

I'll point out a couple of films that have peaked my interest thus far, before I send you head first into the entire program.  Checking out shorts programs in festivals is never really a risky bet, and there should be some particularly strong showings in both their Minnesota Shorts series as well as Music in Motion, the latter of which also includes live music performances.

One feature that looks particularly promising, if only for its impressive festival showings across the country, is Night Catches Us.  Taking place in 1976 Philadelphia, we follow a black panther in the midst of a love affair and an organization that's become increasingly disconnected with the same social movement it's looking to uphold.  The movie played to favorable reviews at Sundance, Seattle, and New York's Film Society of Lincoln Center, which is no small feat considering its competition.

Also of interest to me is the documentary Streetball.   Truthfully, I've heard nothing about this film from a film-lover's perspective that warrants special attention.  But as a former soccer player racked with liberal guilt, the idea of a homeless world cup is more than enough to get me to the theater.

I'll post more thoughts on the festival as we get closer to the opening date of Sept 28.  In the meantime, peruse the films for yourself.