Art mixes with politics at political conventions.
By Anne Kim-Dannibale
Kirby Dick delves into rape in the military in his documentary "The Invisible War."
This year’s political coronations include artistic endeavors that aim to bring pressing issues of the day to light — along with a little music from the likes of Journey and the B52s, and a little bit of Hollywood stardust sprinkled in. Last week, members of the GOP mingled with celebrities like Tim Daly, Evan Handler and Carol Kane, to name a few, courtesy of Creative Coalition, who brought in the Tinsel Town contingency for their lineup of meet-and-greets. This week, it’s the Democrats‘ turn with Patricia Arquette, Rose Byrne and Tony Shalhoub, among others.
But what’s sure to leave an impression are the choice issue-oriented films offered at a micro film festival embedded into both conventions.
Impact Arts + Film Fund, the philanthropic arts organization that launched during the 2008 Presidential elections, returns for its second act with more thought-provoking films in 2012. Included in this year’s lineup is the Sundance 2012 Audience Award winner “The Invisible War,” Oscar and Emmy award-nominated director Kirby Dick’s compelling and eye-opening documentary about rape within the U.S. military, and the complications that the military system presents for women these accusations arise. In theaters now.
Also on tap is David France’s excellent “How to Survive a Plague.” With this summer’s return of the International AIDS Conference to the United States, this moving documentary takes us right back to the frightening dawn of HIV/AIDS when thousands died and politicians stood by. A can’t-miss, which opens in theaters September 21 (Sept. 28 at the E Street Cinema in Washington, D.C.).
Screening at the Mez/EpiCenter Theater during the DNC, 210 E. Trade St., Charlotte, NC 28202. For a full list of films and to purchase tickets, click here.
