11th Annual Manhattan Film Festival to Open With World Premiere of THE PATHOLOGICAL OPTIMIST

Manhattan Film Festival announced todaythat THE PATHOLOGICAL OPTIMIST by Director Miranda Bailey, has been selectedto open the 11 th annual edition on April 20, 2017.The documentary is a character study that features never-before-seen, full access footage,of the manat the centerof one of the biggestmedical and media controversies of our time Andrew Wakefield whose filmVaxxed: From Cover-Up to Catastrophe,screened at last year's Manhattan Film Festival andsparked fierce debate.

"As a filmmaker, I was drawn to exploring a controversial subject so I'm grateful that the Manhattan Film Festival embraces provocative films, and I look forward to premieringThe Pathological Optimist," says Director Miranda Bailey.

The screening willalsoinclude a filmmaker Q & A with participants in the film to create an open discussion about the subject matter.

"MFF strongly feels part of the role for an independent film festival is to spark debate and give filmmakers a platform," said Festival Director Philip Nelson. "We are thrilledand honored to open the festival withThe Pathological Optimist, and look forward to the dialog to follow."

Bailey made her directorial debut with the documentaryGreenlit a humorous documentary examining the hypocrisy inherent in Hollywood's "green" movement - premiered at the 2010 SXSW Film Festival to critical acclaim and was acquired by IFC International. Additionally, she established herself as a prolific producer championing independent films as CEO of Cold Iron Pictures. In the last year, her filmSwiss Army ManandDon't Think Twicewere released to box office success and critical acclaim. Her most recent film,Norman, will be released by Sony Classics April 14.

A complete lineup of films will be announced March8 th. The 11 thannual Manhattan Film Festival will take place April 19-30, 2017. For more information on the Manhattan Film Festival, visit http://manhattanff.com/.

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SOURCE Manhattan Film Festival