March 23, 2010
Contact:
Elizabeth Klipp, 404-413-1356
University Relations
ATLANTA - Award-winning documentary filmmaker Ken Burns will speak at Georgia State at 3 p.m., Thursday, March 25 in the Student Center ballroom.
Burns will give a lecture titled, "No Ordinary Lives," focusing on his World War II documentary, "The War." Released in 2007, "The War" is an epic account of WWII as seen through the eyes of typical American citizens from four quintessential American towns.
Making films for more than 30 years, Burns has directed and produced some of the most acclaimed historical documentaries ever made, such as "The Civil War," "Baseball," "Jazz," and "The National Parks: America's Best Idea."
"His films have resonated with people because of his unique ability to make the history come alive for the viewer," said Cara Dawn Byford, campus events advisor. "We hope his presence on campus will give students the opportunity to be inspired to pursue their own interests and be successful. "
The doors to the Student Center ballroom will open at 2:30 p.m. Burns will sign books at 4:30 p.m. following the end of his presentation. The event is free and open to the public.
Born in Brooklyn, NY, in 1953, Burns graduated from Hampshire College in Amherst, Mass., in 1975 and went on to be one of the co-founders of Florentine Films. As with most non-fiction filmmakers, Burns wears many hats on his projects, serving as writer, cinematographer, editor and music director in addition to producing and directing. His documentaries have been nominated for two Academy Awards and have won seven Emmy Awards.
This event is sponsored by Georgia State's Campus Events and is paid for by student activity fees. Georgia State's Student Center is located at 44 Courtland St.