Story by Jim Bishop
The historic Dixie Theater will host the Virginia premiere of the award-winning independent film, “Pearl Diver,” on Sept. 19 for a nine-day run.
“Pearl Diver” is the story of two sisters who are haunted by the murder of their mother and their subsequent path to reconciliation. Dan Boatwright of The Film Reporter calls the film “…engrossing and uplifting. It may be the best film of the year!” Patricia Freeman of www.independentfilm.com said “Pearl Diver” is “…part love story, part murder mystery, part family drama. An amazingly moving film.”
The film has several Shenandoah Valley connections. “Pearl Diver” is set in a Mennonite community in Northern Indiana and features a rare film portrayal of Mennonite traditions familiar to many Valley residents.
Sidney King, the film’s writer, producer and director, is a 1995 graduate of Eastern Mennonite High School. He will be present for a question-and-answer session following the screening on Sept. 21.
“I look forward to bringing the film to audiences in the Valley and discussing their thoughts and reactions to the film,” King said.
“Pearl Diver” has won numerous awards at domestic and international film festivals, including Best Narrative Feature at the Winnipeg International Film Festival, Best Cinematography at the Woods Hole Film Festival, Grand Jury Prize at the Indianapolis International Film Festival and the Crystal Heart Award at the Heartland International Film Festival.
“Pearl Diver” is being distributed theatrically by Panorama Entertainment and internationally by Shoreline Entertainment.
More information on the film is available at www.pearldivermovie.com.
For showtime and ticket information, contact the Dixie Theater at 540.885.8445 or visit their website at www.dixietheater.com.
The Dixie Theater is located in historic Downtown Staunton at 125 E. Beverley Street.
Jim Bishop is a regular contributor to The Augusta Free Press.
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