By Shirley Tejada
The presence of the vibrant and dynamic Dominican community is well acknowledged in cities across the United States. Dominican culture, music, and traditions are quickly becoming household references but the country’s film industry remains relatively unknown. Global Foundation for Democracy and Development aims to change that by showcasing a sample of the best films produced recently in the Dominican Republic, by Dominican filmmakers, about Dominican topics. To do this GFDD is partnering with the Organization of American States, the Art Museum of the Americas, the Dominican Embassy in the US and the Dominican Mission to the Organization of American States.
Beginning in Washington DC, the Dominican Film Showcase will present, share, and celebrate the stories, characters and history of the Dominican Republic with an international audience.
The Film Showcase aims to:
• Facilitate the enrichment of the film culture of the Dominican Republic and bring its unique brand of cinema to a wider audience
• Utilize the seventh art as a platform for discussion and as a medium for enhancing social awareness and promoting constructive change
• Raise awareness internationally of issues of historic and cultural importance to the DR community
• Cultivate an appreciation of Dominican cinematographic talent
• Encourage the advancement and funding for DR film and multimedia productions
• Further an appreciation of the cinematographic arts and help advance the multimedia industry in the Dominican Republic
• Encourage potential partnerships for international co-productions
• Aid the professional development of Dominican human resources in the field of film
November Events
Film: Flor de Azúcar
A young peasant is forced to flee for killing involuntarily an abusive guard. After an entire year hiding in a remote fishing island, he decides to return to his countryside and reunite with his wife and daughters.
This film will represent the Dominican Republic at the 2017 Oscars Awards.
Date: Wednesday, November 2, 2016
Place: Gala Hispanic Theatre, 3333 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20010
Time: 6:00 pm
Special Guest: Fernando Báez, film director
Fernando Báez Mella, Dominican film director, was born January 23, 1957 into a family of photographers and filmmakers. His grandfather, Tuto Báez, made the first ever feature film in the Dominican Republic. Mr. Báez has received many local and international awards for programs and television specials.
He is a prolific documentary filmmaker with an obvious interest in conservation work as well as environmental and social issues. His documentaries about the ocean and sea have shown the world the beauty and wealth that lies under water along the shores of the Dominican Republic.
