Continuing to help fill Asbury Park’s cultural void
The Garden State Film Festival was founded in 2002 by industry veteran Diane Raver and actor Robert Pastorelli. By combining their Hollywood connections, the two were able to create this well-rounded film event. Premiering in 2003, the GSFF has showcased independent works of many talented New Jersey filmmakers.
The group’s mission has been to, not only introduce great works to a new audience of viewers, but help in the revitalization of Asbury Park, NJ. The do a fine job of filling a void left after years of cultural neglect. This year’s festival was another full lineup, but I was here for one particular viewing.
A series of shorts created by students was being shown at an unlikely screening venue in the back room of a Greek restaurant called Synaxis (660 Cookman Ave. Asbury Park, NJ). Aside from a few technical glitches, this was an eyeopening experience. So many extremely talented budding filmmakers assured me that there is plenty of hope for the future of creativity in New Jersey and beyond.
My favorite of course was that of my nephew Nick Wager called ‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy‘ which I featured on my site recently. There was also a brilliantly funny fight flick featuring two friends in a near death battle over a Jackie Chan DVD. ‘First Strike’ has one of the most unique chase scenes I’ve ever seen.
Another stand out was ‘SAT The Musical’ which was just what it sounds like. This feature-length student production was filled with dancing and singing centered around the life-altering, stress-inducing hell that is taking the SATs. Wonderfully produced, written, choreographed and performed.
The one complaint I have about the festival is that they only gave email addresses as contacts (if that). It’s a bitch of a time trying to track down websites to link to for these films. But after some diligent searching, here ya go…
Along These Tracks
Hip Hop Construction
Don’t Worry Be Happy
SAT The Musical
Contact
Eyemotion
PeachCraft Student Shorts
First Strike
Runaway
See Also:
Saturday Afternoon in Asbury Park – Gallery
‘Don’t Worry, Be Happy’ Featured Video
