New American stories: The Spectrum of Independent Voices

Independent filmmakers form diverse backgrounds are making their mark on film history by telling a range of stories never told in cinema before. By expressing their personal experiences, they offer a broader vision of America. What kind of narrative emerges when an Independent filmmaker takes on a subject that has been codified by the mainstream media? What concerns arise when artists make film about communities that have been underrepresented or stereotyped? What difficulties present themselves to filmmakers seeking access to the film world? Are cultural values defined differently from inside and outside the film establishment? What is the real difference between the studio perspective and the independent point of view? The panel includes a number of Sundance filmmakers and will be moderated by film and social critic B. Ruby Rich.