The Coolidge Corner Theatre

$15 regular / $12 Seniors, students and Coolidge Members

SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION with Chris Mburu, whose story inspired this documentary

'A Small Act’ is a precious and inspiring tale…. Filmmaker Jennifer Arnold gracefully and fluidly tells the uplifting story of Hilde Back and Chris Mburu. - Duane Byrge – The Hollywood Reporter

The Nantucket Film Festival is proud to partner with Facing History and Ourselves and the Coolidge Corner Theatre with a special presentation of A SMALL ACT straight from its sold out screenings at the Sundance Film Festival.

When Hilde Back sponsored a young, impoverished Kenyan student, she thought nothing of it. She paid roughly $15 dollars per term to keep him in primary school. She certainly never expected to hear from him, but many years later, she does. Chris Mburu has been thinking of his “angel” Hilde since he was a boy. The small contribution she made paid off – Chris went all the way to Harvard. Now, he’s a respected UN human rights lawyer, dedicating his life to battling genocide and crimes against humanity. Chris decides to replicate Hilde’s generosity by starting his own scholarship fund. Simultaneously, Kenya falls into ethnic-based electoral violence. After working on conflicts in neighboring countries, Chris knows that ignorance fuels ethnic hatred. Education has never been more important. Chris must decide what to do.

Come celebrate this amazing film and hear Chris speak about his life experience and creating the Hilde Back Scholarship Fund.

The Nantucket Film Festival (NFF) was founded in 1996 to promote the cultural awareness and appreciation of the art of screenwriting in the world of cinema. Celebrating its 15th Anniversary this year (June 17-20), the NFF has become one of the premiere destination film festivals in the world. Visitors come from all over to experience our preview screenings, signature events, and stand out hospitality on a magical island, rich with history, a friendly atmosphere, and beautiful sandy beaches.

Facing History and Ourselves is dedicated to fostering thoughtful dialogue about issues of tolerance and civic responsibility. Their publications, seminars, and community events link historical events such as the Holocaust and the civil rights movement to the everyday issues in our own lives, providing opportunities for people of all ages to recognize the importance of civic participation and learn from the courage and resilience of others.

Jennifer Arnold (Director/Producer) graduated from UCLA and University of Nairobi with a BA in African History and returned to UCLA for a MFA in Film. Her award-winning film, MAID OF HONOR screened at Sundance before airing on HBO/Cinemax and Film 4. Jennifer returned to Sundance with her internet series, "The Mullet Chronicles," which was developed into the documentary, AMERICAN MULLET, and released by Palm Pictures/Lionsgate. Jennifer also co-directed a documentary for Ethan Coen and wrote a motorcross script, SPEEDWAY, which was selected for Berlin Talent Campus’ script clinic, IFP's No Borders and FIND’s Directors Lab and Fast Track Program. Jennifer’s most recent film, the documentary A SMALL ACT premiered in competitioin at Sundance 2010 and will be airing on HBO in the summer.

Dir. Jennifer Arnold, documentary, USA, 2009; 1h15m