First Annual Chris Holter Humor in Film Award To Be Presented at 50th San Francisco International Film Festival

$2,500 Cash Prize to Filmmaker Selected by Audience Ballot

November 10, 2006

San Francisco, CA—The San Francisco Film Society (SFFS) announced today that the first annual Chris Holter Humor in Film Award will be presented at the 50th San Francisco International Film Festival. The Holter Award, honoring the work and life of the native San Franciscan, teacher and filmmaker, has been established in memoriam by Holter’s partner, producer/director Ron Merk. The award, which includes a $2,500 cash prize, will be given to the filmmaker whose film (short, narrative feature or documentary in any genre or technique) depicts the most humorous and life-affirming portrayal of the human condition. The winner of the Holter Award will be determined by audience ballot and announced at the Film Society’s Golden Gate Awards Ceremony on May 9, 2007.

“We’re delighted to accept Ron Merk’s generous offer to inaugurate the Chris Holter Humor in Film Award at the 50th International,” said Graham Leggat, the Film Society’s executive director. “It’s a most fitting tribute to Chris’s inspiring joie de vivre.”

Ron Merk quote: “I think the simple description of what kind of film will receive this award very much reflects who Chris was and how he saw the world, always certain that things would improve if we got involved.  I truly hope this award encourages filmmakers to incorporate this kind of humanity in their work and to bring us good news about ourselves.”

April 26-May 10, 2007 the San Francisco International Film Festival will mark its place in history as the first film festival in the Americas to celebrate its 50th anniversary. For over half a century, SFIFF has presented the best in world cinema. SFIFF50 will honor that tradition while energetically embracing new works, new platforms and new audiences.

The Holter Award is made possible by an annual grant from the Metro Theatre Center Foundation, with funds from the Ora A. Holter Family Trust and the Chris Holter-Ron Merk Family Fund.

The San Francisco Film Society, presenter of the 50th San Francisco International Film Festival (April 26 –May 10, 2007), is a nonprofit arts and education organization dedicated to celebrating international film and the moving image.