WASHINGTON FILMWORKS ANNOUNCES

Washington Filmworks approves funding assistance for 2 commercials. These projects mark a total of 61 projects approved through the Washington Filmworks program since inception in 2007.

FILM DAY IN OLYMPIA

On Wednesday Feb 23rd the Washington Filmworks held Film Day in Olympia to show support for HB 1554 and SB 5539; the legislation to renew the Motion Picture Competitiveness Program. Despite the snowy weather and the long commutes we are extremely pleased to report close to one hundred film industry workers from all across Washington State braved the icy roads and heavy snow fall to attend and meet with legislators to talk about the program's impact on the statewide economy. These supporters also attended the Senate Ways and Means Committee hearing to show the vital importance these bills have on the lives of so many individuals. When Committee Chair Sen. Ed Murray asked all those who were attending Film Day to stand, the entire room rose to their feet in a tremendous show of solidarity and support. Washington Filmworks and our partners and colleagues are still awaiting a hearing date for the House Ways and Means Committee for the companion bill, HB 1554. We will keep you updated as things progress on the legislation. If you were unable to attend Film Day or even if you were one of the valued supporters, it's not too late to write your legislator to show your continued support.

You can view the Ways and Means Committee Meeting via the link below:

http://tvw.org/media/mediaplayer.cfm?evid=2011020172A&TYPE=V&CFID=3244167&CFTOKEN=58520560&bhcp=1

WASHINGTON STATE IN SUPERBOWL 2011

Washington Filmworks would like to recognize the film industry workers who contributed to the Incentive Renewal video, showcasing the talented men and women who helped make Bridgestone's "Carma" commercial, one of the most popular commercials shown during the 2011 Superbowl. These people are a testament to our local film industry and we'd like to recognize them for their contribution.

Mark Titus

Craig Stewart

Donna James

Marty Oppenheimer

Rich Fassio

Karen Myers

And all the crew

If you haven't yet seen the video, you can check the link below:

Washington Filmworks Incentive Renewal Video

OSCAR NIGHT AT SPITFIRE

On February 27th Washington Filmworks in partnership with Spitfire, will be hosting our annual Oscar Benefit Party. Doors open at 4pm and your $10 cover at the door gets you into the Oscar Pool. At the end of the night, the winner will donate all proceeds to a local area arts organization of their choice! Dress as formal or as casual as you please, black cocktail dress or jeans and sneakers, just don't miss this great event! You can download your Oscar Ballot and make your picks early by going to our website by following the link below.

Washington Filmworks Events

WASHINGTON FILMWORKS' "PULLING FOCUS" SERIES RETURNS NEXT WEEK

 Washington Filmworks, in partnership with IFP/Seattle, Northwest Film Forum, Northwest Screenwriters Guild, Seattle Film Institute, Seattle International Film Festival, Seattle Office of Film + Music, Women in Film-Seattle and the Warren Report are pleased to present "Pulling Focus: A Clear Picture of Today's Film Industry." The first installment of the 2011 series kicks off next Thursday, March 3, at The Sorrento Hotel, and will feature a candid conversation with special guests Matthew Lillard (Scooby Doo, Scream), Darrien Gibson (Executive Director of SAGIndie) and Nike Imoru (casting director for NxNW), all moderated by Warren Etheredge of the Warren Report. Talking points will include: how to bring out the best in your talent and crew, the business of being an actor, the importance of finding the perfect cast and much more. This is a unique opportunity for local area arts organizations, talent, filmmakers and all those interested in the business of "show business" to get together, share experiences and learn how to help the Northwest continue to thrive as a filmmaking hub. Guests are invited to continue the conversation after the panel discussion at a cocktail reception hosted by the Washington Wine Commission. Tickets are $10. Doors open for the event at 6:30 pm and the panel begins at 7:00.