The 25th annual American Film Institute Film “Fest” opened on November 3rd, and runs through this Thursday the 10th, 2011. Its schedule is packed with a combination of blockbuster flicks, international films and offerings by young American filmmakers. The American Film Institute was formed 45 years ago to “preserve the history of the motion picture,” honor accomplished filmmakers of merit and educate young “storytellers.” The festival is held at the historic Chinese Theater and the Egyptian Theater.

Jacqueline Lyanga, Festival Director, spoke with Uprising host Sonali Kolhatkar on Monday November 7, 2011 about some of the more politically themed films at this year’s AFI.

Watch a video of the interview here:

NOTE: The screening of Kinyarwanda mentioned in the interview is incorrect. The film screens on Monday 11/7 at 7 pm at the Chinese 3 Theatre.

More info at www.afi.com.

Martina Steiner recorded this interview.