Cinequest San Jose Film Festival celebrates 12th anniversary

San Jose, CA (September 24, 2001)-- Cinequest San Jose FilmFestival's twelfth anniversary edition will occur February 21-March 3,2002. The twelfth anniversary will be showcasing maverick films, newfaces, and innovative technology in the world of filmmaking.

Cinequest not only promises to attract mavericks within the filmindustry, but also the entire spectrum of film lovers by offering afirst-hand look at the art and technology of filmmaking. With pastappearances by Kevin Spacey, Jackie Chan, Gus Van Sant, Jennifer JasonLeigh, Spike Lee, and Rod Steiger, Cinequest plans to deliver anotherline-up of maverick tribute guests. The Maverick Film Competition alsoreturns with a slate of international maverick features, including U.S.and world premieres from more than 30 different countries.Multicultural showcases such as the Latino Filmmaker Celebration andEastern Rhythms (Pacific Rim) offer audiences a flavorful taste ofcultures around the world.

Cinequest has grown in scope from 45,000 people in 2000 to more than50,000 in 2001--an increase of 10%. The number of films expanded to180, with 200 filmmakers and producers in attendance. Cinequest staffalso announced that the number of film submissions for this year'scompetition has increased to over 1000.