I've spent the last 3 months doing private test screenings and focus group screenings before any public screenings. Everyone loves the film, but we are making some changes to make the film even better. I have a great team on board helping me, including my new supervising editor Tom Miller and his editor Morgan Stiff. I love the new changes of the film! This new version will be ready very soon.
My test screenings have continued, including a small showing at the Rochester Deaf Film Festival, which showcased films done by deaf filmmakers. I got some terrific feedback and feel very strongly supported by the deaf community. I am hoping to have a formal screening of the film in Rochester in the fall of 2009 along with some educational workshops, and made some great new connections who are working with me to make this happen. The best part of the weekend was meeting deaf filmmakers from all over the world who had their films screen in Rochester, including filmmakers from Israel, South Africa and Amsterdam. I am extremely excited about what is happening in deaf cinema and strongly support these new visionaries.
I am off to Philadelphia for another test screening/sneak preview of our old cut. I am glad that these audiences are helping to shape the final vision of the film, and am grateful for all of the incredible support.
I will continue to keep everyone posted on what is happening. Thanks for following our journey!
Hilari
