Urban Mediamakers Film Festival (UMFF) 2009

Mediamakers Film Festival (UMFF) 2008 -- "The Movement in Progress through Independent Filmmaking" -- takes place October 17-19, 2008 in Atlanta, Georgia. Traditionally, worldwide media has shown people of color in a negative perspective. There are some urban media outlets that do the best they can. Media is really subliminal brainwashing, and what we see and read is what most take as the truth. But is it the truth?

Blending activism and filmmaking, UMFF 2008 gives a voice to positive, conscious media -- a movement that needs sparks of energy everyday!

Greetings All,

I hope this post finds you in the best of care! I want to personally invite you to attend the 6th Urban Mediamakers Film Festival (UMFF) here in Atlanta, Georgia, Friday-Sunday, October 12-14, 2007.

Why should you attend? To answer that I must ask you a question. Does media -- film, music, print, radio, television and video -- reflect you, people around you or the experience as you know it? Traditionally, worldwide media has shown people of color in a negative perspective. There are some urban media outlets that do the best they can, but they are great but few. And racism, don't get me on that -- let's just suffice it to say that racism is alive and well in these United States. And to be honest, media is really subliminal brainwashing. What we see and read is what most take as the truth. But is it the truth?

Yes, I'm sure we all can attest to a brother, sister, cousin, aunt or friend that is addicted to drugs, has AIDS, in jail or is in a totally dysfunctional family. On the other hand, we know family and friends that are doing great selfless work in the community, living productive and prosperous lives, or who have hit rock bottom and came out to testify to others about their walk. We hear the negative and dehumanizing lyrics of some musicians, but we have an abundance of positive, conscious music artists that we know little about. But don't get me wrong -- I'm for freedom of artistic expression and speech, but there has to be a happy medium in what is seen and heard by the masses. It's not about JUST entertaining. We have the creative talent and power to change the landscape of media. We've just got to do it!

The goal of UMFF 2007 is to give a voice to positive, conscious media. This is not just for a weekend in Atlanta, but it's the continuation of a movement that needs sparks of energy everyday! I invite you to be a part of the movement and support us -- a group of conscious, independents pursuing our dreams courageously!

Peace and blessings,
Cheryle Reynolds
Founder/Producere
Urban Mediamakers Film Festival (UMFF)
www.umff.com
404.460.2793

The 6th Annual Urban Mediamakers Film Festival (UMFF) 2007 -- "The Movement in Progress through Independent Filmmaking." Blending activism and filmmaking, UMFF 2007 brings a strong Atlanta vibe that encompasses the city's signature of being culturally diverse. Taking place October 12-14, 2007 at the Doubletree Hotel Atlanta-North Druid Hills Road, this 3-day festival includes an opening night reception and premiere of "Got Purpose," all-day independent film screenings, workshops for actors, writers and filmmakers, panels, networking, awards ceremony, and Sunday brunch.

Guest speakers include Abiola Abrams (BETJ), Dr. Alduan Tartt, Isis Wisdom (Word On Da Streets Magazine), Nadra Enzi (BFSS), Ralph Scott (BETJ The Best Shorts Producer), Ellen N. Friedman (Director/Acting-Voice Coach), Francine Dash-Johnson (Writer/Producer), Sylvia Jackson (Filmcaptive Productions), Barrett Dungy (Urban Home Entertainment), Jay Blakk (Music Manager) and Rahiem Shabazz (Filmmaker/Journalist, and Hotep (Skinnymen Productions). UMFF 2007 honorees include winning filmmakers/writers, student filmmakers from KIPP Academy, comedian/actress/TV host Mo'Nique receiving the UMFF Entertainer of the Year award, and more. Full festival pass $125; students $100. Single event tickets also available.

UMFF 2007 is a must-attend for independent filmmakers, activists, community organizations, actors, writers, directors, independent filmmakers, students, producers, music composers, animators, media professionals, designers, stylists, and lovers of independent films. Visit www.umff.com or call 404.460.2793 for festival details and registration.