United Nations Association Film Festival | Opening Night

The 29th United Nations Association Film Festival opens Thursday, Oct. 15, at Mitchell Park Community Center in Palo Alto, with remarks by Mayor Vickie Veenker and the presentation of a City of Palo Alto proclamation recognizing the 29th UNAFF.

Opening Night begins with the West Coast premiere of The Comfort Dogs of Uganda, directed by Australian filmmaker Richard Wainwright. The documentary follows former child soldiers in northern Uganda finding unexpected bonds with rescued village dogs.

Next is the world premiere of Last Christian in Bethlehem, from local Bay Area team and UNAFF alums, Robert Levering, Stephen Talbot, and Stephanie Mechura. This feature documentary provides interviews and footage of Palestinian Christians living in the West Bank.

The night concludes with Through the Body, a film about Keith Terry, an Oakland percussionist and dancer. Director Andrew Reissiger journeys with Terry as he builds a global community through the International Body Music Festival. A special dance performance will also take place at this screening.