ZP International Motion Pictures

Richmond, KY: May 20, 2009: Upon wrapping up the First Annual World Independent Film Expo, the organizers are extremely pleased with the event. “We will be back next year,” exclaimed promoter Anthony Hudson to the large crowd assembled for the awards banquet.

Over eighty films and trailers were screened at the weekend-long event held at the University Theater and Galaxy Entertainment Center in Richmond, Kentucky. The turnout was much better than anticipated as film fans and filmmakers alike were able to see the work of some of the most talented individuals in the Independent Film Community.

And for those interested in becoming filmmakers or sharpening their skills, there were a variety of seminars ranging from lighting, directing, special effects, and acting to stunt fighting and getting yourself on a reality television show.

The event sponsors were Richmond Life Magazine and ZP International Productions. The co-sponsors included Miller Brewing, Justus League Films, Tucky Wood Productions Goatboy Films, Silver Chain Films, Feathered Italian Films, Kentucky Movie Net, Can-Too Productions, 148 Films, Haint Productions, Media coverage was provided by David Rupp and Infernal Dreams, Z-Rock 103, and 106.7 The Fox FM. Foothills Transportation provided a free shuttle service between the two venues utilizing a trolley that was a big hit with the fans.

Several celebrity guests and artists were also on hand to sign autographs, present seminars, and pose for photos. Special guests included Artists Joel Robinson and Billy Tackett and musicians Eric Sommer, Ciano Smith and the rock band, Battery. Also on hand were models Alex Del Monacco and Kayla Perkins, horror film icons Daniel Emery Taylor and Jim O’Rear, motivational speaker Mike ‘The Machine’ Bruce, reality television stars David and Mary Connely, Joanna Dunn, wrestling legend Tim Lawler, and martial arts expert David Fultz.

“I just can’t say enough about the folks that worked on this show,” said event co-sponsor George Bonilla, “Everybody did a great job, and I feel that we were very successful in pulling this off. The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. I can’t wait until next year.”

Friday night’s premiere of Bonilla’s latest film, HELL-EPHONE was one of the highlights that kicked off a big weekend. More that 300 people filled the University Theater to see the much-anticipated film. A Premiere event for NANCY BARRY’S BIG CASE and special screenings of festival favorites STASH and DEAD MOON RISING also played to large enthusiastic crowds.

While the above films were not considered for the jury awards, the films that were in competition made a big splash as well.

The big winner of the weekend was THE AUDIT taking home the award for Best Feature with Sebrina Seigel taking home the honors for Best Actress. THE AUDIT was produced by Abigail and Naomi DeHaan.

Cincinnati-based filmmaker Scott Sullivan also took home two awards. Best Screenplay was awarded to his TV pilot BOTTLE ROCKETS. His unique short feature, STEAK DREAMS earned him the Best Actor award.

“This is incredible,” said Sullivan, “I’m really a writer that dabbles in acting, so this really validates that, thank you very much”

148 Productions’ David Gooslin took home the award for Best Short Film for his tongue-in-cheek comedy, KILLDO.

“Wow,’ said an emotional Gooslin, accepting his award “I’m so thrilled that I’m actually getting a little choked up.”

The Audience Choice Award went to the zombie film DUSK OF THE DEAD.

A talented ten-year old filmmaker won Best Animated Film for the short THAT PENCIL JUST GOT OWNED.

The much talked about THE HOPEWELL HAUNTING was honored for Best Lighting and THE SECRET OF LAU JENS SILK SWORD won for Best Original Story.

Rounding out the list of winners were THE PARCHENE CONSPIRACY for Set Design and DUSK OF THE DEAD for Best Special effects.

With the first year under their belt, the organizers of W.I.F.E are hard at work making plans for a 2010 show.