AFF 2011 Photo Essay: 'Deep in the Heart'

in

IMG_0183

Although out-of-town Austin Film Festival attendees may have had a difficult time attending movie premieres and screenings at the Regal Arbor in north Austin, this local doesn't mind the change of pace. With changes in the parking fees downtown and traffic congestion, I enjoy the alternate venues -- especially since the Arbor is close to home for me.

One of the AFF selections I saw at the Arbor this year was Deep in the Heart, a feature making its world premiere in the fest's Texas Independents category. Starring local festival alum Jon Gries (Natural Selection, Napoleon Dynamite) as Texan Dick Wallrath, this docudrama focuses on a man who went from a deadbeat alcoholic to a self-made millionaire and philanthropist. Wallrath is known for his generosity via the Future Farmers of America (FFA) and 4-H programs that helps fund college educations for students from rural communities. The movie was shot in the greater Austin area.

Dick Wallrath and his wife Patsy (seen above with executive producer Jay Hoffman) attended the Arbor screening, along with several of the film's stars and writer/producer Brian A. Hoffman -- read Jenn Brown's interview with Hoffman here. See more photos from the Deep in the Heart Q&A after the jump.

Deep in the Heart

Supporting actor D.B. Sweeney (Heat Stroke), who portrays Wallrath's son Michael, is in the above photo with leading actor Jon Gries and Dick Wallrath during the Q&A after Deep in the Heart screened.

IMG_0205

Here's Patsy Wallrath with Elaine Hendrix (Within, Superstar), who portrays Patsy in the movie,and Texan actress Rheagan Wallace (Six String Samurai), who plays Deede Wallace.

[Photo credit: Debbie Cerda, all rights reserved.]