LAMORINDA WEEKLY | Film Clips


A free showing of "Stand By Me" will be screened July 14 at the Orinda Theatre. Photo provided

As we are in the middle of summer enjoying blockbuster Hollywood movies like "The Secret Life of Pets," "Finding Dory" and the soon-to-be-released "Ghostbusters," it is time to mark your calendar for the 19th Annual California Independent Film Festival that is only eight weeks away.

CAIFF once again will be showcasing award-winning independent movies from around the world with screenings at the Rheem Theatre, Orinda Theatre and the Castro Theatre in San Francisco. The Festival opens Sept. 8 and closes Sept 14.

The Rheem Theatre will be hosting the opening night festivities on Thursday Sept.8. I am pleased to announce the opening night movie will be "Miles," a heart-warming movie based on a true story.

"Miles" tells the story of a high school senior Miles Walton, portrayed by newcomer Tim Boardman, whose mother (Molly Shannon, "Saturday Night Live," "Superstar") is left broke after his father passes away. He causes an uproar in his small Illinois town when he discovers an unusual college scholarship opportunity through a loophole that allows him to join the girls' volleyball team. The film also stars, Annie Golden ("Orange is the New Black"), Missi Pyle ("Gone Girl") and four-time Golden Globe nominee Paul Reiser.

"Miles" recently had its world premiere at the prestigious Seattle International Film Festival, got rave reviews and was an audience favorite. The "Miles" team is delighted to be in attendance at the opening of the California Independent Film Festival. Nathan Adloff, the award-winning director, has confirmed that he will also be in attendance. Attending cast members will be announced at a later date.

Tickets for opening night will go on sale to members Aug. 1. So be on the look out for your invitation email. Last year's opening night sold out in less than two weeks. Now is the best time to become a CAIFF member that will allow you to purchase festival tickets early, as well as receiving the most up-to-date information of the 19th Annual California Independent Film Festival. To become a member visit CAIFF's website at www.caff.org or sign up at the Rheem or Orinda Theaters.

Don't forget, one of the greatest coming-of-age films, "Stand By Me,"will be showing for free at the Orinda Theatre at 7 p.m. Thursday, July 14. This will be a special 30th Anniversary screening of "Stand By Me," which was first released in theaters nationwide on Aug. 22, 1986. Brilliantly directed by Rob Reiner, it tells the story of four

Oregon boys who learn that a stranger was accidentally killed near their rural homes. On their quest, the four boys learn more about each other and a bond that will connect them for a lifetime.

"Stand By Me" was nominated for one Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. Did you know that the movie was adapted from the short story, "The Body," written by Stephen King?

"Stand By Me" is rated R for language, smoking and brief violence - all involving preteens and teenagers. It has a total running time of one hour and 29 minutes. Don't miss this rare free opportunity to see a modern-day classic on the big screen.