Each year the PS International Film Festival becomes grander and has gained notoriety in the film industry. This year the festival boasts over 150 films shown throughout the city from January 3-13th. By Cessily Walker
The eleven days of viewing turns the city into an artsy star studded destination. I had the opportunity to catch a few films and was wowed by one in particular, Plot for Peace, a documentary directed by Carlos Agullo’ and Mandy Jacobson.
This documentary was unusual because it told the unbeknownst story of an unsung hero, Jean-Yves Ollivier, who helped aid in the negotiations of ending apartheid in South Africa. French businessman Jean-Yves Ollivier, used his own personal finances and contacts to achieve peace. The film documents two years of negotiations between Ollivier, with several African countries, including the South African white minority ruling party, Cuba and Europe. It highlights how one man’s vision and accomplishment sparked “The evolution of Freedom”.
Plot for Peace has won numerous awards, including Palm Springs “Bridging the Border Award”. For his contribution to the war against apartheid, Mr. Ollivier received the highest honor in South Africa by Nelson Mandela.
Plot for Peace will be aired on South African TV February 11, 2014.
Stay tuned for more news from Palm Springs and for a full schedule of events visit PSFilmFest.org.