Local ‘AngryFilmmaker’ Kelley Baker debuts his new film, Kicking Bird, tonight in a sneak preview/benefit at the Hollywood Theatre. Kicking Bird tells the story of Martin “Bird” Johnson, a white-trash high school kid who runs from his life -and into a spot on the track team.

Baker shot the film in digital video in 18 days for mere pennies – and my friend Don Campbell contributed some 15 punk songs with his songwriting partner Al Lee, along with help from Brian Berg of 44 Long fame, and Simon Widdowson of Sweeper (and a producer for the Decemberists, Little Sue, Pete Krebs, Nicole Campbell, among many others.)

Tonight’s benefit preview starts at 6:30 with a wine and cheese reception, followed by the screening at 7:30. There will also be a drawing afterwards for tickets to various theater events around town, and the $25.00 ticket price raises money for KelleyÔøΩs Baltic Educational Films, a non-profit organization that makes educational videos for schools.

Don says it’ll be “big fun” – and anyone who knows Don (freelance journalist/writer, longtime PDX music aficionado, and member of DK4, among other worthy pursuits) knows that he’s all about big fun!

Can’t make it tonight? There’s another party tomorrow evening – the Cast & Crew Premiere (open to the public) at 7 p.m – and the movie will be shown regularly all weekend long (check the website for the schedule.)