National Neighborhood Day 2006 Film Contest
Quotes from the Judges
Gregg Hale – Producer and filmmaker of the Blair Witch Project
"The films were much better this year. All the finalists showed a real knack for effective storytelling and the diversity of the messages was impressive.
I felt the Special Jury films deserved recognition because of the powerful honesty they convey. These films' somewhat bleak tone serves to underscore the importance of strong, supportive neighborhoods. The young filmmakers' talent and dedication gave me hope in spite of the challenging conditions conveyed in their films."
Terry Sanders – Two-time Academy Award winner, including the award for co-producer on the documentary Maya Lin: A Strong Clear Vision
"The films were generally better this year. It is striking how divided they are in reflecting either a comforting sense of "neighborhood," helpfulness and "connectedness" in the rural areas or extreme alienation, danger and death by drive by shootings in the cities."
Rick Smith – Film and television veteran whose credits include True Lies with Arnold Swartzenegger, Meet Joe Black with Brad Pitt and Anthony Hopkins, Amistad directed by Stephen Spielberg, Dumb and Dumber, and Something about Mary
"I did notice that, after viewing the films about country towns with tiny populations, well, I would have been glad to move there and experience that lost America, that America that I am glad still lives out there".
Lynne Couture - Chair of the NND Film Contest
"Once again, for our second Film Contest, we have judges who are truly committed and passionate. How exciting for all of the filmmakers, as well as for the National Neighborhood Day organization, to have each of them donate their time and expertise to review the films of these young students. We are very grateful for their generous contributions. "