The Hamptons International Film Festival’s sixth annual SummerDocs series will be presented by Alec Baldwin with “Life Itself” on June 21, 2014, and with “Keep On Keepin'” on July 25, 2014. Directors Steve James and Al Hicks will present their documentaries to east end audiences at the Guild Hall in East Hampton.
Steve, along with Executive Producers Martin Scorsese and Steven Zaillian will present “Life Itself,” a film that recounts the life of film critic and social commentator, Roger Ebert. The film has been described as personal, wistful, funny, painful and transcendent and will be released on July 4, 2014, by Magnolia Pictures.
“Steve James’ entertaining and inspiring story about Roger Ebert is a fascinating look at a film critic who truly helped to shape our culture,” Alec Baldwin said. “And, Al Hicks’ Keep On Keepin’ On’ is a moving portrait of not only Clark Terry’s legacy, but of how one person’s mentorship can make a difference.”
Al, an Australian director, for four years documented jazz-legend Clark Terry and blind piano prodigy, Justin Kaulflin and now offers his viewers with an inspirational look into the lives of the iconic musicians. Produced by Academy Award nominee Quincy Jones and Paula DuPre’ Pesmen, the film which celebrates famous musical contributions was recently given awards for the Best New Documentary Director and the Audience Award at the Tribeca Film Festival.
“After another year in which a SummerDocs selection has gone on to win the Oscar for Best Documentary, we are excited to bring what we see as some of the most exciting voices in documentary films to the Hamptons.” Artistic Director of the Hamptons International Film Festival David Nugent said.
In association with the SummerDocs series, the 22nd Annual Hamptons International Film Festival is scheduled to take place over Columbus Day Weekend from October 9 through October 13, 2014.
Tickets for screenings to films in SummerDocs series are available for purchase at www.guildhall.org or at the Guild Hall Box Office. Guild Hall is located at 158 Main Street in East Hampton.