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The NYC Food Film Festival features a startling array of films from a diverse group of film makers. Be sure to check out the films during the week-long festival at select NYC locations. For more details on the event schedule and locations, click [here] (http://www.nycfoodfilmfestival.com/ "Optional Title")

Here's FoodieLink's exclusive Interview with Anat Baron, director of [Beer Wars] (http://beerwarsmovie.com/ "Optional Title"), one of the many films open for viewing at the festival.

Can you describe your film Beer Wars?

Beer Wars takes you on a no holds barred exploration of the U.S. beer industry that ultimately reveals the truth behind the label of your favorite beer. Told from an insider’s perspective, the film goes behind the scenes of the daily battles and all out wars that dominate one of America’s favorite industries.

Beer Wars begins as the corporate behemoths are being challenged by small, independent brewers who are shunning the status quo. The story is told through 2 of these entrepreneurs – Sam and Rhonda – battling the might and tactics of Corporate America. We witness their struggle to achieve their American Dream in an industry dominated by powerful corporations unwilling to cede an inch.

This contemporary David and Goliath story is ultimately about keeping your integrity (and your family’s home) in the face of temptation. Beer Wars is a revealing and entertaining journey that provides unexpected and surprising turns and promises to change the world’s opinion on those infamous 99 bottles of beer on the highlight.

What made you decide to make the film? Is this the first film you have directed?

Having worked in the beer industry, I knew there was a story to tell and that I’d have unparalleled access to the key players. This was my first documentary film and it was a challenge working without a script. When I produced films, the scenes were easy to shoot because we had a road map, with real life, there’s no clear path.

Can you talk about your experiences with Mike’s Hard Lemonade? How did this affect your perspective towards the beer industry?

Running an independent company in the ultra competitive beer industry gave me an insider’s perspective even before shooting began. I knew the players, the system and the issues small companies faced competing against the big boys. In making the film, I tried to stay objective but it was tough to do once the behemoths went after the film’s “stars.” The film definitely has a point of view.

Can you talk about your experiences in producing for television and films?

I started out in Hollywood making TV movies. It was the heyday of movies made for television and it was a fun and vibrant time to be pitching and producing. I not only produced but was head of development for a large company where we sold 50 films to all the networks and made 10 in just one year. The business died around 2000 just as I started an Internet venture so I escaped just in time. Working with scripts taught me about storytelling and that every film needs a beginning, middle and end. And a dramatic structure with characters we can care about. It all came in handy in making Beer Wars.

How did your experience in the entertainment business influence your views on the beer industry?

The film business like the beer business is dominated by giants with lots of independents trying to get seen and heard. And distribution is controlled by the big boys and so real success comes from being able to self distribute and get to consumers directly (easier in film than beer because of restrictive laws related to alcohol). My views really came from years of experience working on the corporate and small business/entrepreneurial side. This film while set in the world of beer has relevance to American business overall and asks bigger questions about free enterprise.

FoodieLink aims to help consumers shift towards healthier, locally produced food. How and why do you think the beer industry fits into this growing trend?

Small brewers tend to start out in the communities where they launch their brewery. They are connected to the local economy just like small farmers and small retailers are. The movement of supporting locally grown and produced food translates easily to beer. And then of course there’s the quality aspect. Beer is freshest (and therefore tastes the best) the closest you are to the brewery.

What did you learn about the growing craft beer movement? What was your favorite part about getting to know the personal stories of these brewers?

I learned that the brewers start out brewing beer as a hobby. They give their “experiments” (homebrews) to their friends and family. Once they get approval from those in their inner circle, they begin to think about going pro. It’s a process that comes from passion. Not money. They get to do what they love.

I enjoyed getting to know Sam and Rhonda and their families. Learning about the personal sacrifices, the risks and the rewards.

What is your opinion on the 3-tiered system for beer delivery? Do you think this system can change? How can consumers work to get access to these better beers in your opinion?

I believe that the 3 tier system is outdated 77 years after it was legalized. Small brewers should be allowed to self distribute and consumers should be able to buy beer online. Consumers need to ask for the beers that they want. And I think that a well organized grassroots movement is the only way to get the system changed. Unfortunately, I haven’t found too many folks willing to take this on. Lots of education is required and I think that it can be daunting.

Will you continue to enter Beer Wars in film festivals?

Probably not unless I’m asked. The film has already had a theatrical run so right now it screens where there’s demand.

What message are you trying to convey to viewers in Beer Wars?

That consumers have a choice. That we should care about WHO we buy products from. That our dollars matter and that there’s power In our wallets. I hope people get that message. Not everybody cares but there is a growing movement of those who do.

Is there anything else you want to say about your film?

Please come see it at the festival or find a way to watch it in other venues. I’m an independent filmmaker up against the Hollywood studios. Please support not only local food but indie films, music etc.