The Salem Chamber of Commerce and Salem Film Fest are combining efforts to create a memorable kickoff (5-7pm) for the Eighth Annual Salem Film Fest. Meet filmmakers and other VIPs, listen to music, pick up your Fest Program and compare itineraries with fellow film lovers at this festive event at the the historic Hawthorne Hotel. Admission is free.
The kick-off reception is of course followed by the opening night film, STRAY DOG, which will be screened at 7:30pm in the PEM Morse Auditorium (Individual tickets: $11)
FILMMAKERS IN ATTENDANCE – Q&A immediately following the film.
Film Description: Ron “Stray Dog” Hall lives in Southern Missouri, where he owns and operates the At Ease RV Park. After seven years of living with four small dogs as his only companions, he is adjusting to life with his wife, Alicia, who is newly arrived from Mexico. Anchored by his small dogs and big bikes, Stray Dog seeks to strike a balance between his commitment to his family, neighbors, biker brotherhood, and fellow veterans. With Stray Dog as our guide, we experience the restlessness of ex-warriors as he tries to make peace with what he can’t change and weathers the incomprehension of those who have never been to war. As part of the legacy of fighting in the Vietnam War, he wrestles with the everlasting puzzle of conscience, remorse, and forgiveness.
