[declarationfilmfest]

DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE FILM FESTIVAL:

American independents are coming to the Capital. From 1st to 7thJune 2007, a selection of films which have graced the screens of major film festivals such as Sundance, Toronto, Tribeca, South-by-South-West and the American Film Institute will be shown at two venues in the heart of Central London.

The Declaration of Independence Film Festival will offer Londoners the chance to see original and exciting films from the USA and Canada for the first time, with seventeen international premieres being screened.

Over the course of the week, we are screening no fewer than seventeen international feature premieres, with several more films making their British debuts. Most screenings will feature a Q&A with the director, and we have a whole package of special events, including panel discussions and live music.

Of particular interest is the world premiere of a concert documentary Sonic Youth: Sleeping Nights Awake, featuring seminal indie band Sonic Youth on Independence Day 2006. Produced by Reno, Nevada-based Project Moonshine, the film was shot and produced by teenagers, on a shoestring budget, in an echo of Sonic Youth’s own DIY ethos from the eighties.

Featuring intimate interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, and an exclusive concert performance, the film is essential viewing for fans of the band. Highlights include new versions of Tom Violence, Shaking Hell, Incinerate and Kool Thing.

Another interesting music documentary is "Before the Music Dies", both an indictment of the corporate music business, with AutoTune as its tool of choice, and a celebration of the joy of real music. From celebrated musicians such as Eryka Badu and Eric Clapton, to Seattle buskers and Mississippi gospel singers, the filmmakers’ tour across the USA combines great performances with a deep love and concern for contemporary music.

Screening with the short The Ramones and I where a teenage boy finds salvation from the suburbs – through punk. With exclusive live footage from one of New York’s greatest bands.

On Saturday 2nd of June, we are hosting a special screening of Before The Music Dies to be followed by live acoustic performances from emerging artists, in association with City Showcase, London’s festival of new music and fashion.

Visit the festival website to watch trailers for the films and for a schedule of events: www.declarationfilmfest.org