The 5th Annual Queens International Film Festival is a HIT!!!

Posted November 9, 2007 3:44 PM

Last night, I was fortunate enough to attend the Opening Night of the 5th Annual Queens International Film Festival. I must first thank Richard Vetere - Author, Poet, Film & TV Writer - for his generous invitation. Secondly, I have to say WOW! The opening screening was of a short called, A NICK OF TIME, by Bé Garrett. You wouldn't guess it by the title - until you actually see the short - but it's about an old school Brooklyn barber who recounts his story about getting a chance that changed his life - a story that becomes more timely as a seemingly troubled young man walks into his shop. The short is followed by the main screening of the evening - THE DUKES, by Robert Davi. Robert Davi, joined by a spectacular cast that includes Chazz Palminteri, Miriam Margolyes, and Bruce Weitz - just to name a few - about former members of a Doo Wop group who have found it difficult to adjust to life 20 years after their prime. Never willing to give up, they continue looking for work, but are met with disappointment and rejection - ultimately leading to desperate measures. A stroke of luck, amongst misfortune, and a return to their roots is just what was needed to get them back on track. THE DUKES isn't your typical "feel good" film, but is one that most of us who grew up in a neighborhood and valued strong friendship and familial ties can relate to. I felt good because it brought me back to an earlier time - and reminded me that hope can still be found in this complex and unforgiving world. If all the films at the 5th Annual Queens International Film Festival are as good as these two then Queens has a lot to be proud of!