Wednesday, October 19 is sure to be a landmark date for the history of the Hot Springs Documentary Film Festival and filmmaking in the State of Arkansas.

Two World Premieres will be shown, with directors present, including” John Frum, He Will Come” (7PM, Malco Theatre) and “The Living” (9PM, Malco Theater). Additionally, filmmakers will be present for “Finding Fidel” (3:13PM, Malco Theatre), Mineral Explorers (4PM, Malco Theatre) and “Sarabah” (8PM, Central Theatre).

“Wow, this may be the most amazing day of film I have ever been apart of,” notes Dan Anderson, HSDFI Program Director. “John Frum, The Living and Sarabah are must see films… it is truly stunning that all three directors are here in Hot Springs.”

“Sarabah” is a film about cutting-edge West African hip-hop rapper, Sister Fa, and her genre-bending music that tackles women’s rights issues in Africa. “John Frum, He Will Come” depicts a cargo-cult prophesy on the small island of Tanna, while “The Living” enters the world of funeral workers in Quebec.

Not to mention, Hot Springs’ own, Jonathan Kudabeck will screen his Arkansas-premiere of “Mineral Explorers,” and noted veteran filmmaker Bay Weyman will be in-person to screen “Finding Fidel: The Journey of Erik Durschmied,” which recollects a visit to Fidel Castro during the early days of the Cuban Revolution.

The 20th HSDFF will continue screening films through Sunday, and has heard rave reviews for a relaxed and organized atmosphere.

“I can’t tell you how much our volunteers have stepped up this year,” comments Jim Miller, Assistant Festival Director. “This week has been so fun and exiting, probably our best festival in the four years I’ve been here.”