One of the biggest film festivals in DC has gotten underway, and this one isn't about Hollywood stars. It's about the men and women who serve in the US military, and the families that support them. Don't worry. They have Hollywood stars, too. Throughout the week, The GI Film Festival features world premieres of films focusing on all aspects of the military experience, as well as opportunities for filmmakers to learn more about their craft and business.
Wednesday night's feature, The War Inside, examines the adjustments and struggles soldiers and their families face as they come home from combat.
Thursday night is Wounded Warrior Appreciation Night, one of the most important and moving evenings of the week long event. Moviegoers as well as special guests from Walter Reed and Bethesda Navy Hospital will see the DC premiere of Ironclad starring Paul Giamatti, Kate Mara and Brian Cox.
Friday's highlights include Flat Daddy - a documentary about military families who honor and remember their loved ones overseas by keeping cardboard cutouts of them in and around the home.
Then, TV and Movie star Lou Diamond Phillips will be honored with the GI Spirit Award during the festival's Salute to Hollywood Patriots Friday evening, while William Devane will receive the GI Choice Award for his positive portrayals of military characters in film.
The evening concludes with the DC premiere of Devane's Film, Flag of My Father with co-star John Schneider.
All events take place at The US Navy Memorial at 701 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. For tickets, check out GIFilmFestival.com.
