Editor

The 32nd annual Aspen Filmfest, a five-day feast of film and fall color, will be held September 29 - October 3, 2010. With an emphasis on independent productions from around the world and a uniquely intimate scale, the festival champions filmmaking at its finest for film lovers and filmmakers alike. Films will be shown at the historic Wheeler Opera House in Aspen and at the Crystal Theatre in Carbondale.

Opening the festival will be a special evening celebrating the 70th anniversary of John Lennon's birth, with a sneak preview of the upcoming feature film NOWHERE BOY and a live performance by The Quarrymen -- the band that became The Beatles. The directorial debut by Sam Taylor-Wood depicts the events and personal circumstances that led to the formation of The Beatles -- specifically, the underlying family currents that shaped the creative and inspirational qualities of John Lennon during his crucial formative teenage years. The film stars Kristin Scott Thomas as Lennon's Aunt Mimi and newcomer Aaron Johnson as the young Lennon. Following the film, the three still-active founding members of The Quarrymen -- childhood pals who were handpicked by Lennon to be in his first band -- will perform the key songs that they played with Lennon, Paul McCartney, and George Harrison over the group's four-year run.

Over the course of the festival, Aspen Filmfest will offer new features and documentaries, as well as unique presentations, special events, and family films. Special programs include tributes to distinguished artists. Past honorees include such luminaries as Jason Reitman, Stanley Tucci, Julie Christie, Harrison Ford, Rob Reiner, Sydney Pollack, Bob Rafelson, Michael Douglas, Anjelica Huston, and William H. Macy.

Tickets for Aspen Filmfest will go on sale September 15 through Aspen Show Tickets at the Wheeler Opera House box office. For more information, visit www.aspenfilm.org. A complete schedule of films will be available in print and posted on www.aspenfilm.org after September 8.