Evolving from its long-time commitment to the art of independent film, Heineken USA tonight announced the inception of the Heineken Red Star Award at the Heineken Green Room at the Village at the Lift. The program, developed by Heineken in partnership with Premiere magazine, celebrates the achievements of today's most progressive and gifted directors in independent film. It will be presented to eight directors at indie film festivals throughout 2007 in recognition of their innovation, originality and vision. This program is the latest in a long line of Heineken-created initiatives supporting achievement in independent film.

Dennis Hopper hosted the crowd of industry heavyweights to introduce the initiative.

Each recipient of the Heineken Red Star Award will be presented with a premium, handcrafted Tiffany & Co. crystal award, and will be featured in Premiere magazine and on Premiere Radio. In November, Heineken Red Star Award winners will gather in Los Angeles, as Heineken celebrates their collective accomplishments and showcases these award-winning films to key industry leaders.