In an industry that can be exclusive and unwelcoming, “The Northwest Film Forum” is anything but.
Nestled in Seattle’s Capitol Hill neighborhood, it’s making a major impact on marginalized communities.
Derek Edamura is helping cultivate something special at the quaint, two-theater cinema. Not just for underserved communities, but also himself.
“It’s been really powerful to be able to build the things I wish I could have had when I was starting,” says the venue’s Executive Director.
But, its neon lights and bustling action serve as more than just a movie theater with a melting pot of patrons. It’s also a creative and cultural hub. A chance for those who often go overlooked to be seen.
“Equity and diversity really intersects everything that we do,” Edamura conveys. “And so, when we think about the films that we’re showing in the cinema, we want to make sure that everyone sees themselves on our screens.”
So much so that, in 2021, The Forum started the “Action! Narrative Apprenticeship Program.” It provides filmmakers of color the opportunity to learn technical skills, as well as take on leadership roles.
“What we did was created a program that could give people a showcase that they could then use to start their careers,” the Executive Director acknowledges.
Since its inception, nearly 40 filmmakers have participated.
Creators like Jasira Andrus, who was hard at work in the Forum’s edit bay when we visited, which features accessibility to free-to-use computers and software.
“Just being able to come here…be around positive, supportive people and have access to that; it’s been huge. I wouldn’t have any career in film without it,” says the fledgling director.
Moreover, that community outreach translates to the silver screen.
In recognition of Black History Month, the space is featuring “The Jackie Shane Story,” a documentary about a trans soul singer in 1960s Toronto.
There’s also “Sing, Sing,” inspired by the true story of a falsely imprisoned man who finds purpose in a theater troupe while incarcerated.
The Forum specializes in exclusive films you likely won’t see anywhere else.
“It’s been a really wonderful opportunity to continue to build a really intentional community,” Edamura says.
A chance to create and experience something special, while offering up a unique perspective.
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