The People’s Film Festival, the longest running independent film festival in Omaha, is still at it. Since 2004, attendees have been able to enjoy such foods as vegetarian, free-range chicken, locally grown produce and beverages followed by a film.
“Just as the name implies, The People’s Film Festival is for everyone. Featuring a free movie, one that you would want to see but might not go out and rent,” said Nils Erickson, who co-hosts the event. The festival’s features are held every Wednesday at 7 p.m. in McFoster’s Natural Kind Café on 38th and Farnam Streets.
“The inspiration was twofold. One of the first inhabitants in the Old Market in the 1960s was the Edison Exposure, more like a movie class [with] old black-and-white classics. Cost was 50 cents or nothing. Upstairs above what is now la’bouvette’s [had] overstuffed chairs to cement blocks for seating,” Erickson said. “A movie night out of Seattle full of interesting short movies provided current inspiration, so I approached Mary and Tom [McFoster] about the use of upstairs at McFoster.”
Films are mainly documentaries with upcoming showings of “The Business of Being Born” on April 9, “Maxed Out: Hard Times, Easy Credit and the Era of Predatory Lenders” on April 16 and “Cocalero” on April 23.
“We’ve covered everything from gun control to Ernie Chambers,” Erickson said.
After viewing the film, audiences are encouraged to have a discussion.
“I started The People’s Film Festival to raise people’s awareness of the world surrounding them and discuss ways that it affects all of the inhabitants on the planet,” Erickson said.
An informal committee of five chooses the movies, but recommendations from the public are also encouraged. The People’s Film Festival is a part of Progressive Omaha.
Creighton students have been attracted to the showings for their hospitality and focus on social awareness.
“I always liked the environment there and movie selection,” said Brianna Hernandez, Arts & Sciences junior. “Everyonethat works there is really nice. I love their diverse organic food menu.”
Hernandez described the discussions following features as good, particularly for those who tend to support the political left.