Cinemapolis will be screening the latest version of the new film EMPOWERED on Wednesday, December 7th at 7pm followed by a panel discussion. EMPOWERED is an independent, locally-produced feature-length documentary that showcases the many ways in which Tompkins County residents are embracing renewable energy. This event is co-presented by Finger Lakes Bioneers, Ithaca Green Building Alliance (IGBA), Sierra Club Finger Lakes Group and Sustainable Tompkins. Tickets are $10 or $8 for members of Sustainable Tompkins and IGBA.
Director Shira Golding Evergreen (Frac Attack) and Producer Suzanne McMannis have collaborated to illustrate vividly in EMPOWERED that it is our friends and neighbors who are pioneering alternative energy. Right here in Tompkins County, so many have already taken the leap to a sustainable future, and in EMPOWERED they enjoy the opportunity to tell their stories to the public: what inspired them; what first steps they took; how things are working. Viewers will get the stories behind numerous residential and public installations that utilize solar, wind, geothermal and even veggie oil. They’ll also get a glimpse into the entrepreneurial spirit that is driving new community wind, biodiesel and solar cooking projects.
The film was shot entirely on location in Ithaca and the surrounding area and features original animations by Ari Evergreen.
The screening will be followed by a panel discussion with the director and some of the film’s stars. Audience members will be invited to join the conversation on how we can increase our energy independence while protecting our environment. Representatives from local nonprofits and installers will be tabling in the lobby to help audience members take steps towards embracing renewable energy. This screening kicks off a NY state tour co-sponsored by Finger Lakes Bioneers and Sierra Club Finger Lakes Group.
“We’ve been working on this film for over a year and can’t wait to share it with the community,” says director Shira Golding. “We’re hoping people will watch the movie and then start thinking of concrete ways they can integrate these strategies into their own lives. It’s going to take a grassroots movement to push this country towards a renewable energy future and Tompkins County is at the forefront.”
Over 130 people turned out for a rough cut screening of the film at the end of September and the filmmakers are grateful to Cinemapolis for continuing to provide a platform for local filmmaking about important social and environmental issues.
For high-res images and more information about EMPOWERED, contact Shira Golding Evergreen at 607-821-0654 or shira@shirari.com.
www.empoweredthemovie.com
