This weekend I had the opportunity to attend the first screening of the Michigan Beer Film outside of Michigan. My father-in-law (Larry) grabbed a pair of tickets and it just so happens to have been held at a familiar place, Good Beer Hunting Studio.
First, and pretty importantly, Michael Kiser can host an event. The studio was set up very well for Saturday nights purpose. There were tons of snacks, water was set out in carafes for those (everyone) dipping in to the two kegs of Greenbush beer. There was also a tastefully executed swag table to purchase the film, grab a Hermetus bottle opener or (in my case) buy an Uppers & downers tee.
Greenbush and Right Brain collaborated on this tasty scotch ale.
Before the screening we had the chance to meet the film maker, Kevin Romeo of Rhino Media, who is a great guy. I assure you that opinion isn't solely based on the Greenbush beers that he brought with him. I enjoyed hearing his viewpoint on things other than film and sharing some of what we're hoping to accomplish here at Plank Road Tap Room.
The Michigan Beer Film itself was fantastic! I left with a much better understanding of Michigan's craft beer culture, which I expected to. I didn't, however, expect the film to resonate so much with my opinions on craft beer in Elgin. I walked away from the film with a lot of hope for our town's ability to develop and nurture its own beer culture...something that I think exists in the people, but not yet in the town and establishments.
After the screening and a well-deserved ovation for Rhino Media we were treated to a Q & A session. Both Kevin and Michael fielded questions and added another level of insight in to the film and beer in general. Discussions were had, jokes were made and glasses were tipped. I even realized that 5 Rabbit Cerveceria's owner Andres Araya, a man that I have great respect for, was in attendance. Stupidly, I balked on more than one opportunity to introduce myself. Disabling social anxiety won that battle.
GBH's new glassware arrived just in time.
I walked away from The Michigan Beer Film screening with more than just another great night hanging out with Larry. I left with two clear messages for Plank Road Tap Room's audience. Message #1: Watch/purchase the Michigan Beer Film! It is a great watch and you're supporting a good guy and his amazing creation. Message #2: If you ever have the opportunity to attend an event hosted by Michael at GBH Studio...go...run...do it!
As always, thanks for reading. I should be able to post a few updates soon that will speak to our status and give a clearer vision of our opening.
Cheers!
Alan