Bold Native Premiere in San Francisco

Who: VN Publisher Joseph Connelly and VN Managing Editor Elizabeth Castoria

What: Premiere of feature film Bold Native

Where: Red Vic Movie House, San Francisco, Calif.

When: November 18, 2010

Why: A packed theater of like-minded folks

The Scoop: When was the last time you heard of the release of a full-length, ALF-themed feature film? I thought so. Bold Native tells the story of uncover activist Charlie Cranehill's (played by Joaquin Pastor) attempt to mastermind a couple dozen simultaneous animal-rights actions across the United States while being pursued by both the FBI (trying to capture him) and his food exec dad (trying to save him). While the film hasn't been picked up for nationwide theater distribution, it has screened around the country to much acclaim—including this NYC event hosted by hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons. The San Francisco premiere was an event in its own right.

Author John Robbins opening the evening

Author and activist John Robbins eloquently introduced the film to a who's-who crowd at the historic, independent Red Vic Movie House, located in SF's famed Haight-Asbury district. After the screening film makers Denis Henry Hennelly and Casey Suchan took to the mic, talked about the making of the film, and introduced members of the cast. Finally, released SHAC-7 political prisoner Jake Conroy spoke passionately about his journey of activism as well as his time in a federal prison.

Producer Casey Suchan with writer/director Denis Henry Hennelly in San Francisco

Bold Native is a powerful and educational fast-paced film with a mission. It includes graphic images of animal exploitation, along with frequent cameos by real activists, each weaved seamlessly throughout the movie. Those familiar with the animal or vegetarian movements will smile as they recognize friends and colleagues often on the silver screen, giving the film a very documentary-like feeling for those in the know, without compromising its serious subject. Raw foodist Tonya Kay has a memorable role, playing a hippier version of herself as I Rock. Bold Native is now available on DVD. Purchase two copies, hold a screening in your town, then give away the second copy, to keep the momentum moving forward.