ST. GEORGE — Dixie State University and the DOCUTAH International Documentary Film Festival has a number of gala events this year to complement the film schedule, allow audiences to participate in an expanded festive atmosphere with additional musical performances, dinners and interaction with filmmakers.
“Independent documentary films inspire audiences by providing a global connection to the universal human experience,” said Phil Tuckett, artistic director for DOCUTAH, associate professor at DSU and the director of DSU Films. “We believe that giving audiences as many opportunities to interact with filmmakers, documentary subjects and other attendees enhances the experience and allows for a free exchange of ideas. That, after all, is what all documentarians aspire to achieve.”
Gala schedule
Sept. 7, 7 p.m.
“White Earth”
Synopsis: Thousands flock to North Dakota seeking work in the oil fields. “White Earth” is an award-winning film about an oil boom seen through unexpected eyes. | Watch Trailer
“The Devil & The Angel”
Synopsis: The violin has been referred to as the “devil’s instrument.” Throughout history, violin players and makers were rumored to have sold their souls to the devil in order to master their craft. Despite this reputation, Kevin Lee sets out to prove otherwise. Known as a Master Luthier, Kevin follows in the footsteps of the famous violinmakers from hundreds of years ago, since the first violins were created. | Watch Trailer
Sponsor: Canyon Media
Venue: Electric Theater, 68 E. Tabernacle St., St. George
This event includes a pre-film dinner reception and music provided by Ryan Shupe and The Rubber Band. The cost for dinner and the movies is $50. Space is limited.
Sept. 8, 8 p.m.
“Flying the Feathered Edge; The Bob Hoover Story”
Synopsis: A legend of the greatest generation, Robert A. “Bob” Hoover is considered the pilots’ pilot. In this film, he tells his own story — and shares the hard earned wisdom of a life spent pushing the edge of the envelope. Also featured are Harrison Ford, Dick and Burt Rutan, Gene Cernan and others. | Watch Trailer
Sponsors: City of St. George, Canyon Media and SkyWest Airlines
Venue: Ridge Top Complex, site of the old airport, 620 S. Airport Road, St. George — admission is free to this event
This event includes music by Hal Cannon and 3Hattrio.
Sept. 9, 7 p.m.
“Nefertiti’s Daughters”
Synopsis: “Nefertiti’s Daughters” is the story of women, art and revolution. Told by prominent Egyptian artists, this documentary witnesses the critical role revolutionary street art played in the struggle for social and political change during the Egyptian uprisings. | Watch Trailer
Sponsor: Megaplex Theaters
Venue: Pineview Theaters, 2376 Red Cliffs Drive, St. George
Sept. 10, 7 p.m.
“Soldiers’ Stories”
Synopsis: “Soldiers’ Stories” pairs WWI’s 3D images with recent veterans’ lives, with narration by Mickey Rooney and voiceover from recent American vets whose personal stories suggest that war never changes for those in the middle of it.
“Out of Nothing”
Synopsis: The inspiring true story of four tenacious men who risk everything to conquer the world records of motorcycle land speed racing. This rare and special film will remind you how perseverance against all odds can send the most unlikely men roaring into glory. | Watch Trailer
Sponsor: Utah Film Commission
Venue: Megaplex, Sunset Stadium Theaters, 1091 North Bluff Street, St George
Sept. 11, 8 p.m.
“Prophet’s Prey”
Synopsis: When Warren Jeffs rose to prophet of the Fundamentalist Church of Latter Day Saints, he took control of a religion with a history of polygamous and underage marriage. He bridged the gap between sister wives and ecclesiastically rape, befuddling the moral compass of his entire congregation. See the film near where it all started: Southern Utah. | Watch Trailer
Sponsor: Holding Out HELP
Venue: OC Tanner Amphitheater, Springdale
There will be a fundraiser dinner hosted by Holding Out HELP and sponsored by Equity Real Estate before this screening. This ticket allows entrance to the meet and greet with author/producer Sam Brower, catered dinner, film screening and Q&A following the film. Purchase tickets online.
Sept. 12, 4 p.m.
“Tab Hunter Confidential”
Synopsis: Throughout the 1950s, Tab Hunter reigned as Hollywood’s ultimate male heartthrob, starring in dozens of films. But throughout his years of stardom, Tab had a secret: Tab Hunter was gay, Now, Tab’s dramatic, turbulent and ultimately inspiring life story has become an explosive documentary. | Watch Trailer
Sponsor: Equality Utah
Venue: DSU Eccles Fine Arts Center, 225 S. University Ave., St. George
About DOCUTAH
DOCUTAH’s mission is to inspire a global connection through independent documentary films and intellectual discussions. DOCUTAH strives to enhance the education of independent filmmakers, aspiring film students, citizens of the world and the Community. DOCUTAH is one of the few university-sponsored film festivals in the United States. It is an international pure documentary film festival. As part of Dixie State University’s academic component, DOCUTAH also offers master class seminars and filmmaker panels where student, amateur and professional filmmakers can discuss and advance their skills in the art of filmmaking.
Related posts
- DOCUTAH films look at revolutions in Syria, Egypt; Islam, masculinity
- ‘Soldiers’ Stories’ honors veterans in DOCUTAH’s first 3-D film
- DOCUTAH screens ‘Prophet’s Prey’; film chronicles Warren Jeffs’ FLDS abuse of power
Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @STGnews