11:55 Directed
by
Ari Issler and Ben Snyder USA / 2015 / 80 minutes New York Premiere
Screening
Times and Venues:
Q&A Attendees *subject to change: Ari Issler, Ben Snyder, Victor Almanzar, Matthew Thurm
SYNOPSIS:
Nelson Sanchez is an Afghan War veteran returning to the economically depressed town that left him few options but to enlist after accidentally killing a dealer from a rival gang. But Nelson's happy homecoming turns bitter when, immediately confronted by his past, he must decide if he will flee or stay and face what's coming.
Victor Almanzar as Sanchez is both authoritative and tragic, and you care about what he's endured and where he's heading. A tremendous supporting cast, including such notables as John Leguizamo and Julia Stiles, underpins this gripping story of love, loyalty and revenge. Newburgh, NY, declared one of the state's most stressed cities in 2004 owing to single mother households, abandoned buildings, unemployment, residents under the poverty line, and adults without a high school diploma, sustains the film's authenticity.
At its core, 11:55 represents people's daily battle to live safely, securely and in peace in today's impoverished, under-employed, racially divided environment. --Ben F. Fischer
BIO:
Long time friends and collaborators, Ari Issler and Ben Snyder are currently developing a mini-series for Lionsgate/C4 London, as well as writing a feature film based on the solo shows of John Leguizamo. Issler is a filmmaker and cinematographer who has shot documentaries, feature films, commercials, and music videos over six continents, including the award-winning documentary "The Hip Hop Project" (Think Films). Snyder is a playwright, educator and member of Labyrinth Theater Company. His plays have been produced at Center Stage NY, P.S. 122, The Vineyard Theater, Crossroads Theatre, The Apollo Theater, New York Stage and Film, and at HBO's U.S. Comedy Arts Festival. Snyder was the story consultant for the award-winning documentary "The Wolfpack".
MAIN CREDITS:
Cast/Featuring: Victor Almanzar, Shirley Rumierk, Elizabeth Rodriguez, Julia Stiles, John Leguizamo, David Zayas, Goya Robles, Mike Carlsen
Producer(s): Danny Mendoza, Joshua Blum, Gia Walsh, Kara Baker, Matthew Thurm
Director(s): Ari Issler and Ben Snyder
Screenwriter(s): Ari Issler, Ben Snyder, Victor Almanzar
The Woodstock Film Festival is a not-for-profit, 501c3 organization with a mission to present an
annual program and year-round schedule of film, music,
and art-related activities that promote artists, culture,
inspired learning, and diversity. The Hudson Valley Film
Commission promotes sustainable economic development
by attracting and supporting film, video and media production.
