African Filmmakers Learn How To Get Exposure For Their Films

NEW YORK —Filmmakers overcome immense difficulties to bring their visions to fruition, but no matter how good their labors of love are they may never be seen without proper promotion. On Saturday, April 10, established and aspiring directors and producers will learn how to craft an attention-getting pitch and utilize social networking tools at “Getting Exposure: Securing the Buzz You Need for Your Film.” The panel discussion, which takes place at The Film Society of Lincoln Center at 1:30 pm, is part of “Independent Africa,” the 17^th Annual New York African Film Festival (NYAFF). NYAFF is presented by The Film Society of Lincoln Center and African Film Festival, Inc. (AFF).

Panelists will include Jennifer Merin, film journalist with About.com and founder of the Alliance of Women Film Journalists; Wilson Morales, website editor of Blackfilm.com; Paul Burani, social media strategist; and Pam Pickens, digital marketing expert. The event, which is open to the public, will be moderated by veteran entertainment publicist and NYAFF’s public relations consultant Cheryl L. Duncan of Cheryl Duncan & Company Inc.

“Filmmakers’ roles are increasingly expanding and today directors also need to be savvy marketers,” said Duncan. “Knowledge of what entices journalists and how social networking tools can help them connect with their audiences is essential.”

The New York African Film Festival is celebrating the 50th anniversary of 17 African nations’ independence from colonial rule and the freedom that technology has given African filmmakers to tell their own stories. This year’s festival boasts a surprising mix of works spanning the genres of sci-fi, animation, drama, comedy—as well as a musical and thriller.

NYAFF runs at the FSLC’s Walter Reade Theater from April 7 through April 13. It then moves on to Columbia University’s Institute of African Studies on April 14 for a day of film and panel discussions with filmmakers, scholars and film critics. On May 6, NYAFF will hold the world premiere of the tongue-in-cheek Dr. Cruel, a film co-directed by Jakob Boeskov and Teco Benson which critically examines the work of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) on the African continent at 3ten Lounge at 7 pm (doors opening at 6 pm); the event is a collaboration with Creative Time with music by DJ Amo. AFF and the New Museum will co-present a series of films that celebrate the technical innovations that have contributed to a new level of independence in African cinema at New Museum, on May 13, 15 and 16. The festival concludes at Brooklyn Academy of Music’s BAMcinématek in tandem with DanceAfrica from May 28 through May 31. BAMcinématek is located at