About the Newbury Film Series
Mission
The NFS supports the creation of thought-provoking independent film in Greater Boston by:
- Providing filmmakers of all ages with opportunities to receive valuable feedback on their films, network with others in the community, and deepen their knowledge of filmmaking;
- Engaging a diverse audience in the appreciation of independent film; and
- Empowering the next generation of filmmakers by creating opportunities for area youth to express themselves through the medium.
The idea behind the mission
Free of the commercial and political pressures that often drain studio films of their originality, independent filmmakers explore difficult subjects and project an unfiltered point of view. Their films present audiences with new ideas, examine social trends and investigate the emotional connections that bind us to one another. However, without formal studio support, emerging filmmakers need opportunities to reach an audience and develop their skills if they are to produce challenging films.
The Newbury Film Series (NFS) provides such opportunities. Our screenings, events and programming are focused on engaging independent filmmakers, audiences and area youth. We believe all three groups play a key role in supporting a thriving filmmaking community.
History
In 2002, the NFS held its first film screening in the second floor lounge of the Armani Café. By convening an audience of filmmakers, enthusiasts and students at a hip city nightspot and featuring live music, plush couches, candlelight and bar service, the NFS transformed a traditional film screening into an attractive night out. Attendees were encouraged to stay long after the films had ended to ask questions of the filmmakers and socialize with one another. Filmmakers used the opportunity to network with potential collaborators on current and future projects. Audience members relaxed with a drink and chatted about the films they’d seen. Successive screenings quickly outgrew Abe & Louie’s second floor lounge in 2003, and then the Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA) in 2004. In 2005, the screening moved to the Boston Public Library’s 342-seat Rabb Theater. Also in 2005, the NFS created Reel Vision, a youth filmmaking program for junior high and high school students. In 2006, Reel Vision will replicate this model throughout greater Boston through partnerships with Roca, Inc. Citizen Schools, Art Institute of Boston, Lesley University, and New England Institute of Art.
Achievements
The NFS has held five film screenings in three years, featuring work from over 35 local filmmakers. Six of those films premiered at NFS screenings, going on to screen at festivals around the world. NFS screenings have always included the work of youth filmmakers, two of which are now pursuing film degrees (one at Mass College of Art, the other at New York University). In 2004, our annual screening of short films featured the work of nine area filmmakers. One of the films we premiered was so well received that its director used this success as a springboard, and the film was eventually screened in over 20 festivals around the world.
The NFS incorporated as a nonprofit organization in December 2003 and convened a board of directors. In May 2004, the organization was granted 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status from the IRS.
In the fall of 2005, the NFS launched Reel Vision. Over the course of three months, Reel Vision participants met bi-weekly at Roca, Inc. in Cheslea. Students created public service announcements and documentaries about issues they felt were relevant to their community. Reel Vision films were distributed to multiple media outlets including youth film festivals, public and university television stations, and posted on the NFS website.