The GI Filmist

Brothers at War, GIFF 2008 Winner for Best Feature Documentary

We launched the GI Film Festival for one reason and one reason only:  to make sure films that portray American GIs in a positive light are distributed as widely as possible.  That’s why we are so proud that a stand-out film from last year’s fest,  Brothers at War, hit the big screen this week!  Some of you may recall, the GI Film Festival rolled out the red carpet for Brothers at War last year for the film’s world premiere.  Award winning actor Gary Sinise introduced the film which received both a standing ovation and the GI Film Festival’s award for Best Feature Documentary.  Ultimately, the film earned a theatrical distribution deal with the prestigious Samuel Goldwyn Films.

Here’s what the Director of Brother’s at War had to say about the experience:  “The GI Film Festival was a wonderful place to debut Brothers at War.  The combination of military, political, and entertainment leadership present at our world premiere made it a night to remember and an important event in the promotional rollout of the film.  We will always remember the great reception we received at the GI Film Festival.”

As any filmmaker will tell you, it is extremely difficult to get any independent film on the big screen, especially a documentary.  Credit to Jake for his talent and persistence.  And credit to the GI Film Festival for giving the film its all-important launch.

While we are psyched about our role in the success of Brothers at War, we are not going to rest on our laurels.  We have a dynamite program shaping up for GI Film Festival 2009, with a festival full of aspiring filmmakers looking for their shot on the big screen too.  Check out a few of our trailers.  And check back often as we are adding them weekly in the lead up to the festival, which will be held May 13-17, 2009.