SAN FRANCISCO – The Best Actors Film Festival (BAFF) celebrated its third year this past
weekend honoring the Ohio-based short film, ‘Neitzsche’ Ate Here (‘Nietzsche’ is misspelled
intentionally as part of the story line), at their festival in San Francisco. In addition to
‘Neitzsche’s official selection status, co-actors Bruce Jacklin (Mount Vernon) and Gail Griffith
(Columbus) were chosen as Best Supporting Actors for a Dramatic Short Film at the awards
gala Saturday, October, 19th
.
‘Neitzsche’ was selected as one of the twenty-two films out of hundreds submitted from around
the world. Organizer, Shari Carlson of Shari Carlson Studios, began the competition for one
reason. “I wanted to start a festival that focuses attention on the acting and directing,” said
Carlson. “Many of the other film festivals around the world focus on the production end of films,
so I want to give actors a place to shine.”
“I am extremely proud of Bruce and Gail,” said Matt Starr, producer and director of ‘Neitzsche’
Ate Here. “From the moment that we shot our first scene last May, I knew that this was going to
be a special performance.”
Jacklin plays PAUL, a sophisticated lawyer from D.C. who wanders into a Virginia road side
diner owned by CHERYL, a hardened, sarcastic waitress (played by Griffith). Although the two
are from vastly different worlds, they share a common vulnerability. Adapted from the play
written by Roy C. Berkowitz, ‘Neitzsche,’ audiences deeply connect with both characters in a
surprising twist of fate at the story’s climax as they see PAUL and CHERYL delve into universal
emotional depths.
“To be a part of a great story is wonderful,” said Griffith. “When other actors recognize you for
your work, it validates what we do.”
Jacklin also felt humbled to receive the recognition. “When I see great story telling that these
other independent film makers are producing, it’s an honor to be included in that group,” said
Jacklin.
The BAFF is the third stop of the film festival circuit for the Mount Vernon-based production
company, Kokosing River Productions. ‘Neitzsche’ made its world premiere at the Montreal
World Film Festival in August followed by the U.S. premiere at the Cincinnati Film Festival in
September. In November, ‘Neitzsche’ will be featured at the Ohio Independent Film Festival in
Cleveland. More information about the film can be found at www.NeitzscheFilm.org.
