5Q's w/Annie O'Neil "Dear Congress" Director

FRIDAY | BLOCK D | 2:00
Dear Congress (3 min) dir: Annie O Neil

#1: Can you describe your movie and why somebody should see it in less than 280 characters?

I think we are all concerned about the current state of affairs in our Congress and throughout our government.  Come see my film DEAR CONGRESS and see what kids have to say about it.  They have some answers grown ups may not have thought about.

#2: What do you want the Borrego Springs Film Festival audience to know about your film that isn’t obvious from its title?  
This is a visual letter to Congress from a bunch of kids on a playground.  What you might not realize is this is a documentary: the words are from the kids, not from a script.

#3: What is your movie making background?  Tell us about yourself.  

I’m thrilled to return to BSFF after 2017’s screening of Phil’s Camino.  My love for filmmaking was rejuvenated in 2009 when I was part of the documentary Walking the Camino: Six Ways to Santiago.  That proved to be a huge release of creativity: I have since written a book, made 3 more films,  and have spoken all over the country. 

#4: What was the biggest lesson learned in getting your film made?  

To JUST MAKE THE FILM!!!  We did Dear Congress on the fly, super fast, no money, and it is more topical and more urgent today than when we shot it in August 2016.  It seemed so much like just a whim, but now I see how important it is.  I am just humbled to use art in this way.

#5: What does the future hold for your film and you?  

I hope to get Dear Congress directly to Congress!  The kids have a lot of suggestions, comments and wisdom and I think everyone who sees it is impressed so why not Congress!?!   As for me, I am busy writing and making more films.  I am almost done making a longer version of Phil's Camino for a theatrical run and for international TV.