NeonFest Press
Members of the Press are invited to contact:
"The event has been in the works for about six months, according to festival president Bill Fisher, who heads the volunteer board. 'A bunch of us were sitting around talking about how we were tired of driving to L.A. to see movies all the time,' he notes. 'Even though we're the entertainment capital of the world, that part has eluded Las Vegas.'" continued...
www.reviewjournal.com/lvrj_home/2004/Sep-19
"In its first year, the volunteer-produced NeonFest will stage three days of gay and lesbian films at Crown Theaters in downtown's Neonopolis entertainment complex. Admission is free to all screenings. A brunch and panel discussion with local and national film critics will cap off NeonFest on Sunday, Sept. 26 at Jillian's in Neonopolis. Among the critics expected to attend is Sean Smith, Newsweek's openly gay film critic. The cost for this event is $25."
"Sean Smith is a Senior Entertainment Writer for Newsweek magazine. He covers the film industry and the business of film. He will be one of the panelists on a discussion of gay film at Neonfest, Las Vegas' first LGBT film festival on Sunday, September 26.
"Q: You will be a panelist for Neonfest, what do you hope to bring to the discussion?
"A: I would like to get into a discussion about the history of gay film and where we are now in terms of the LGBT community in general. I would also like to see a discussion on what determines a gay film. It's always interesting to me to discuss whether a film is gay because the filmmaker is gay or the topic is gay?"
Las Vegas Mayor Oscar Goodman:
"As the happiest mayor in the world, and on behalf of the citizens of our beautiful city, I am delighted to welcome you to the inaugural Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, and Transgender International Film Festival of Las Vegas, NeonFest!...
I would like to take this opportunity to recognize NeonFest for their hard work and dedication in the production of this event...
I would like to thank the many sponsors involved with this festival and for making it possible to present the festival free of charge..."
Congresswoman Shelly Berkley:
I am pleased to welcome everyone attending the Innaugural Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual, Transgendered International Film Festival of Las Vegas" continued...
"Independent film festivals have become all the rage in cities around the country. From the most infamous, such as Cannes and Sundance, to the newest entry here in Las Vegas, Neonfest, America's love of cinema and film is perpetuated not only through the million dollar blockbusters but the small independent film makers. Neonfest rolls out its inaugural year here in Las Vegas with the theme of gay marriage and is highlighting the best in gay and lesbian films and shorts."
"...NeonFest is a three-day celebration of gay-themed cinema and includes film screenings and a panel discussion with nationally known film critics. The event takes place at Crown Theaters at Neonopolis in downtown Las Vegas, and opens with "Tying the Knot," a critically acclaimed film illustrating the dramatic changes in the lives of three gay and lesbian couples resulting from their inability to marry."
