As the door between the outside world and the Pacific Northwest widens, the potential for accomplishment (or catastrophe, depending on whom you ask) is almost limitless. In the realm of film and television, progress is already apparent—just ask any Portlander who works on sets how their job opportunities compare with those of a decade ago. But while these may be boom times for growth in the industry, let’s not forget this region’s long history of filmmaking—as evidenced by the annual Northwest Filmmakers’ Festival, now in its 42nd year.
A festival like this is essential for the filmgoer who takes pride in our creative geographic turf (which, in this case, also claims Alaska, British Columbia, Idaho, Montana, and Washington), but who might not have the time or fortitude to struggle through the underground to find the gems. To help out, the NW Film Center’s fest calls upon a professional in the field—this year it’s Steve Anker of CalArts’ School of Film and Video—to curate the best efforts across all categories, from absurd and experimental short films, to weighty documentaries, to feature-length movies of all genres.