Midafternoon Sunday, the Adirondack Room at the Starz FilmCenter was muted. The night before, this site for the 33rd Starz Denver Film Festival Filmmakers’ Lounge was abuzz. A guy from a new festival sponsor Freshiesa drink mix company — mounted a stationary bike that powered a blender. He pedaled a margarita. Argonaut Liquors sponsors the lounge.
Yes, Sunday provided a momentary lull in a festival that has seen a jump in ticket sales.
So David Charmatz, didn’t have to shout above a din to field a couple of — OK, three — questions. The chairman of Denver Film Society has headed the arts organization’s board through a fiery tailspin (when it hired then dismissed an executive director in less than six months) to its Phoenix-like ascent this year. Thursday, the film society opened its spiffy new theaters on East Colfax Avenue with George Hickenlooper’s “Casino Jack” and Leland Orser’s “Morning.”
Q: Is the opening of Denver FilmCenter/Colfax, a good feeling?
A: After two years of going back and forth on that property, it was surreal. And a very poignant moment with the governor-elect (speaking before cousin George Hickenlooper’s “Casino Jack”) and Leland in the next theater with “Morning.” Michael Fries (CEO Liberty Global) suggested we take a look at the film.
Q: A best festival moment?
A: I think I’ve had one a day. But a privilege of being the board chair is I get to open the festival. I loved getting onstage and getting it started.
Q: Do you have a favorite film?
A: When I tell people my favorite film, it always sounds a bit esoteric. But it’s “Teahouse of the August Moon.” The casting is brilliant, with Glenn Ford and Brando. It’s about tolerance and culture and perceptions Since 1979, I’ve watched it probably once a year. Every August.
Lisa Kennedy
