FollowWith over 25,000 attendees in 2014 and some of the best filmmakers from around the world, deadCENTER Film Festival in OKC has become a world-renowned focal point in the filmmaking industry. It began as a one-day event back in 2001, and now expands over the course of five days and features a host of independent films.
All films are shown in downtown OKC, allowing Oklahomans to experience great art in their own backyard. But even better, the festival draws in people from across the globe, attendees and filmmakers alike, giving our city the chance to exchange conversations about film and art with new faces.
“Most of all, that’s what we hope for,” says Kim Haywood, Director of Programming and Education with deadCENTER Festival. “I hope people will come here and experience a sense of community and identity within our own community of filmmakers.”
Over the last decade, independent films have seen a steady rise in popularity, due in large part to festivals like deadCENTER, which bring some of the best indie films to the table each year.
“I think one of the hardest challenges in the beginning was convincing people indie films weren’t just some skateboard trick you see on YouTube,” says Haywood. “There are truly incredible independent films out there.”
One thing that sets independent films apart from the big blockbusters we see in Hollywood is the storytelling. While Hollywood may have the budget for explosives and CGI, indie films offer both incredible writing and beautiful cinematography. This year, eight of deadCENTER’s features have an Oklahoma connection to them.
“What that tells us is that our education is working,” Haywood says. “Our state is becoming a place where film can grow and remain established. That’s why we offer things like our free panels, where people can come and learn about filmmaking. Whether they are filmmakers themselves or simply interested in it, it’s a great opportunity.”
Something for Everyone
Haywood says this year deadCENTER brings a film slate like never before. From narrative features to stunning documentaries, there’s sure to be something for every festival-goer. Here are just a few options to check out:
For the Locals
Hollis
Picture the smartest kid in your high school. That’s Darryl. Except Darryl was born in a small town to an impoverished family with a brother suffering from cerebral palsy and an alcoholic widower. Darryl applies for his dream college… and gets in. He can’t afford college, much less a private one. After several months of waiting for financial aid, Darryl succumbs to the fact that he is staying in town to take care of his family. That despair turns into pure joy as he receives a full scholarship. But what Darryl wants most could tear his world apart. Quick decisions threaten everything Darryl has worked for. As the fabric of his life splits between his dreams and duty to family, his father’s words begin to ring in his ears: “There just ain’t no free tickets out.” —95 min, OK
For the Kiddos
kidsFEST Shorts is a FREE SCREENING at the Myriad Gardens on June 13, 10.a.m. For a list of the kids’ short films being shown, visit deadcenterfilm.org.
Documentary
How to Dance in Ohio
A first kiss, a first dance. For kids from all walks of life, these first steps toward intimacy are at once exciting and terrifying. For some teenagers and young adults on the autism spectrum, the transition can be nothing less than paralyzing. How to Dance in Ohio is a beautiful, enlightening film that follows a group of teenagers with an array of developmental challenges as they prepare for an iconic event—a spring formal dance. Entertaining, funny and heartbreaking, How to Dance in Ohio challenges us to question and celebrate the path to human connection and to rethink the definition of normal. —88min, OH
An International Narrative Feature
Harry & Avis
Set in the breathtaking expanses of Scotland’s countryside & Edinburgh proper, Harry & Avis is a romantic comedy following two eccentric lovers who take a camping trip to Loch Lomond National Park. This spontaneous camping trip is meant to invigorate the couple’s relationship, but Harry’s neurotic existential ponderings interfere. As Harry finds himself contemplating life’s perplexing questions, Avis tries her best to remind him the importance of care-free spontaneity. Just as the two begin to find a middle ground, they find themselves in the midst of a mystery. —76 min, OK
Get the Most Out of deadCENTER
To have access to every film, short film, along with panels and special events, the festival staff highly recommends the All-Access Pass. For $150, you get the full five-day experience and priority entrance. If you only plan to see one or two films, you can purchase individual tickets 20 minutes prior to the showing.
Another great way to experience the festival is to try something new. Branch out from what you might naturally go for—check out the Deep Impact Shorts (or all of the incredible short films, for that matter) or Gloria, a film shot in Mexico with English subtitles.
For a complete schedule, more information and to register for your All-Access Pass, please visit deadcenterfilm.org.
Written by Shyla Stokes
