I'll keep this one simple: "Exploding Girl" is a sleeper/snore. Script was empty and the overall presentation more than a tad slow. The story was boring. I give it a must-pass.
Raspberry Magic is a delightful little soufflé set in the simple world of an 11-year old. Monica (Lily Javaherpour) plays a young lady intent on proving a horticultural premise; a raspberry plant will thrive if it receives touch-therapy. Her need to succeed is compounded when her father, just laid off and constantly fighting with his wife, leaves to reestablish himself. She feels the success of her project would expedite her father's return. The plot isn't complicated, the filming gentle, the acting very nice. Javaherpour presents a pleasing character we can bond with, hurt with, and hope with. the supporting cast does a fine job helping to bring the tale to light. Not to be trite, but this is a nice charming film.
Cinequest 2009
Get Brunette (Russian - English subtitles) is a drama/comedy that almost works. I have respect for the Eastern Block film makers - remember last year’s delightful gem, “Konyec.” However, “Get Brunette” could have been told better. Masha and Leopold lived in a makeshift dwelling on the beach, until it is blown up. Then they end up on the lam after stumbling into a robbery by their uncle and are chased cross country by the police for a crime they didn’t commit, and for a personal violation of a neighbor girl that never happened. The filming appeared manic leaving important parts unclear. On a scale of one to whatever, the film was okay. Interesting views of Russian life. But I wouldn't rush to see it.
Cinequest 2009
Shorts 3 is a series of animated shorts that is not for young minds. Of the ten titles, one was sublime; “Our Wonderful Nature” - a simple tale of the mating habits of the water shrew...absolutely hilarious. The remaining were interesting, serious, ironic, weird, and touching: “Slaves’ was a heartrending conversation with 9 and 15 year olds freed from government sponsored slavery in Sudan. And one, (Chainsaw), was pornographic. Pushing the envelope is one thing. Showing porn for the sake of porn was a regrettable choice.
Cinequest 2009
Shorts 5 - Letting Off Steam is a series of films with a serious twist or two. There were the weird (Hour of Death) and touching (Water Pills), and one was regrettably pornographic (Love You More). Hollywood continues to enter the Indi world with Winona Ryder in, "Water Pills." She does a great job, but I still look forward to seeing the new, unproven but ready and capable emerging talent that awaits to be discovered.
Side bar: I believe there is more nudity this year than last, and more than the year before. And mostly unnecessary to the story essence, flow, or drama. Most that I’ve seen has been gratuitous, and doesn't move the thread/theme along.
Cinequest 2009
The world premiere of "Wake” was the opening faire that aired to a sold-out, energetic, and enthusiastic crowd Wednesday, February 25. And they were ready for the Cinequest 19 Film Festival to begin - they cheered the opening credits. “Wake” was a good choice. A light, airy, and nicely packaged
“Wake” is a bit off center. Carys Reitman (Bijou Phillips) seeks constant support and advice from her friend Shane (Danny Masterson), the undertaker. Trying to understand her lack of feelings, she attends funerals of people she doesn’t know. Searching for answers, she attends the last rites to a gal and was moved by her fiancé’, Tyler (Ian Somerhalder) closing words. Carys accidently removes jewelry from the dead gal at the viewing and ends up falling for the guy...who also may be the girls killer. Nice twist.
“Wake” is filled with Hollywood star power (including jane Seymour). And as good as the writing and filming and acting were - really top notch - the film is missing a beat. I could not shake the feeling that the film could have been a sitcom season summary, with a lot of unnecessary heavy breathing. I never caught the essence that this was a feature film. That doesn’t mean “Wake” isn’t entertaining. It really is. It is thoughtful. It comes in a nice package. There was just too much, “this can be solved in 30 minutes” feel. My two cents…
Next Viewing:
March 10; 7:00pm
Camera 12
March 11; 2:15pm
Camera 12
We Shall Over Come
Danish with English subtitles
I'm a sucker for the underdog, I really am. I root for the down trodden and yell encouragement to those pushing against unfair systems. We Shall Overcome fits my likes nicely. Director Niels Arden Oplev takes the strength of a true story and spins an inspiring tale so all of us can be ennobled.
Frits is 13. He doesn’t fit in. Not just for being awkward and from a lower economic strata, but in peer mindset. He's a self thinker. He thinks differently. He thinks deeper. And in this case, not fitting in is a good thing. Frits is in secondary school overseen by a headmaster who must think he’s in charge of national defense. Everything is his way; the slightest infraction pounced on with force and deliberate intention.
One summer, with his father ill and with income waning, his family receives a used television, their only source of entertainment. No trips to other countries. No, but the daily journey's throughout the world were a treat! Frits is exposed to the 1960s, his education consists of the tumultuous time of change and growth and social rights, especially in the United States. He watches the civil rights movement and is inspired by the wisdom of Martin Luther King Jr.'s orations. That inspiration emboldens him to face down his peers, and more importantly, to challenge the unreasonable and tyrannical authority of his school - the headmaster. There is a cost that he's willing to pay.
When Frits begins a new school and steps outside the social lines established by others, he's branded a trouble maker. His hair length is Beatle-ish and therefore, wrong. A mistake trips the lad into the girl’s locker room after which the headmaster's rage is out of proportion and sends Frits to the hospital.
A free-thinking teacher, Freddie (Berthelsen) takes Frits under his wing and helps him and his family face the power of an unmovable administration. The Headmaster has a history of uncontrolled violence and needs to be taken down. But his standing in the community is high (though his actions are so very low) and finding justice will be difficult.
Rathke performs nicely as Fritz, with an intelligent level of youthful concern and combat. The conclusion to the Headmaster’s story may not fit our form of justice, but the story of Frits provides us with an inspiration not to accept second rate behavior, especially to ourselves. “We Shall Overcome” offers inspiration and strength for us all. Many have had to stand up for their rights, facing down strong opposition. So does Frits. And so do we at times. In the end he wins over hardship and so must we. The film can be a bit ragged here and there, but overall, "We Shall Overcome" is quite a pleasant film.
Next Viewing:
March 9, Friday; 7:00pm
Camera 12
March 10, Saturday; 9:00pm
Camera 12
March 11, Sunday; 4:45pm
Camera 12
Celluloid #1 is an intellectual curiosity, a noir journey into the murky make-believe land of has-beens. Directed by Steve Staso and written by Keith Bunker, “Celluloid #1” comes across as intended, underground faire.
An aging filmmaker finds himself out of the limelight and reduced to working with worn out red carpet denizens who also seek to rejoin the illuminated. His new project is to expose the unglamorous world of glamour and stumbling into his world is a past-her-prime starlet and her intense manager, both bent on recapturing their past glory. From the beginning the creative relationship is cautious to confrontational.
Dark, in topic and attitude, the film embraces the noir factor, but does so by propelling the film forward sluggishly. The film bops back and forth between shadowy discussion and on camera assignment, conversation and action. Motion starts and stops.
Celluloid #1 won’t be everyone’s faire. I’m not moved by cerebral angst and emotional poverty. Yet, I believe this film will find an audience.
The Opening Night show and bash
The San Jose Film festival continues to offer the exciting and dynamic screen offerings from around the world and
Namesake, a relationship bittersweet drama directed by Mira Nair, was a delighul choice to open Cinequest.
Namesake blends the difference between America and India, between Calcutta and New York, between young hearts living in a bicultural world. Namesake is an engaging story embracing family tradition and expectation that clashes with American individualism and expediency.
Set in the 70s, after an arranged marriage, Ashoke and Ashima (played by Bollywood actors Tabu and Irfan Khan) move to New york from Calcutta and raise a family. While husband Ashoke copes, wife Ashima struggles pretty much with everything about her new country. That angst is picked up by their son, Gogol, who tries to fit in, tries hard not to be different. When he loses perspective of past and heritage, it’s brought back to him when he learns the truth behind his being named Gogol.
Nair captures life on both sides of the globe and the struggle between self determination and family expectation are excited. Tradition, playing an important role, ultimately overcomes the strong pull of American freedom and returns Gogol to accept his life and legacy. “Namesake” is an outstanding example of intelligent filmmaking and storytelling.
The Maverick Spirit Award is the Cinequest film festival's highest honor. Recent past recipients have included William H. Macy, Edward James Olmos, Sir Ben Kingsley, Jon Polito, and Sir Ian McKellan. On Saturday, March 3, actress Minnie Driver joined their ranks, accepting the Maverick Spirit Award after a discussion of her works with Cinequest co-founder Kathleen J. Powell and a question-and-answer session with the audience.
Driver discussed her career and her approach to acting in the hourlong interview. Her past film credits have included a wide variety of films. Asked which she likes better, comedy or drama, Driver says, "Oh, its like choosing between your kids; I love them both." She has also done quite a bit of voice acting, which she says is "a rare discipline...I think it's good for actors, it hones you."
In 1998, Driver was nominated for an Academy Award for her performance in "Good Will Hunting." Even though she didn't win, she said the experience of being nominated was a "big jolt," and added, "It shouldn't be that way, but people take you more seriously. ... It can turn your head for a bit." The hardest part to deal with was the intense media scrutiny and thorough coverage of her life. "It's so subjective, but people take it seriously," she said.
Driver works for women's rights with Oxfam, and her efforts have crossed over into her work as well. She did the film "The Virgin of Juarez," a fictional account of the hundreds of women kidnapped and murdered near the Mexico/US border as an outgrowth of her work for women's rights. She hopes that the film will make more people aware of the crimes.
When it comes to acting, Driver says you can learn from your surroundings: "if you pay attention and keep your eyes and ears open, everything will teach you," including crew, extras, director, and fellow actors. "You take bits from everybody." She also emphasized the need not to "take yourself too seriously," saying actors must bring "your imagination and your willingness to look stupid" to their roles. She said that the most important thing she's learned is not to worry about the final product or what people think, just the process of acting: "stay in the doing of it, and out of the result."
"I don't have a method, really," she concluded. "My method is just to love the character."
Information and full schedule: www.cinequest.org
For tickets, call (408) 295-FEST or visit the website.
Ticket Prices: Students $5 General $9.50
Passes:
Film Lovers Pass $125
Film & Forums Pass $135
Premier Pass $195
Elite Pass $500
Express Line Pass (add-on) $100
Cinequest 17 is coming soon: February 28 through March 11, 2007, downtown San Jose will be packed with filmmakers and film lovers from all over the world. The maverick-oriented film festival is packed with exciting events and films from over 30 countries, many of which are being shown here for the first time.
Cinequest is held in downtown San Jose at a collection of venues within walking distance of each other. Films will be shown at the California Theater, Camera 12 Cinemas, and San Jose Repertory Theater. The festival organizers have made arrangements for plenty of parking and even parking validation at some lots. There are also several hotels close by for out-of-towners and plenty of restaurants as well. Last year, over 67,000 people attended the festival and had an impact of $3.75 million on the city.
The Maverick Spirit Events at Cinequest each year are very popular, and this year looks like it will be no exception. Director Christine Vachon ("Boys Don't Cry," "Kids") will discuss her films and accept a Maverick Spirit Award on Friday, March 2. Acclaimed actress Minnie Driver will discuss her career and be presented with a Maverick Spirit Award on Saturday March 3. Filmmaker and musician Stewart Copeland will discuss his work after a screening of his film "Everyone Stares: The Police Inside Out" as part of Cinequest's Day of Sight And Sound on Saturday, March 3.
The Day of Sight and Sound is part of Cinequest's series of forums on every aspect of film production. Friday March 2 is the Day of Distribution, Saturday March 3 is the Day of Sight and Sound, Friday March 9 is the Day of the Writer, and Saturday March 10 is the Day of the Producer. Each collection of forums will feature experts on each topic and an opportunity for both experienced and new filmmakers to learn about the art and craft of film.
Although most of the films shown at Cinequest are chosen by a panel, this year several films are being chosen by viewers in the Viewer's Voice competition. Cinequest Online offers film lovers a chance to watch the films competing for the last few coveted spots at the festival and vote on which ones should be selected. The films are available for free download at www.cinequestonline.org.
Cinequest is moving into year-round distribution with both the Viewer's Voice competition at Cinequest Online and with Cinequest Distribution, where film lovers can find DVDs of films from past Cinequest festivals. Both features and short films are available, and many can be watched directly on the website if you don't want to wait for a DVD to be delivered.
As usual, Ealasaid Haas and Fred Crow will be reviewing as many films as they possibly can at Cinequest, starting very soon. Watch this space or visit their on line Cinequest headquarters at www.ealasaid.com/cineblog/ for their reviews.
Edward James Olmos accepted the Cinequest Maverick Spirit Award after a screening of his new film “Walkout” on Sunday, March 12. The Maverick Spirit Award is given each year at the annual film festival. Past award winners have included Sir Ben Kingsley, Blanchard Ryan, and Ian McKellan. The award honors the maverick spirit in filmmaking.
“Walkout”, which Olmos directed and in which he has a small part, is about the East Los Angeles high school walkouts in 1968, which sparked a wave of similar protests against the poor schools available to Chicano students. The film focuses on Paula Christosomo (Alexa Vega, “Spy Kids”), a gifted student and leader only a few months away from graduation. Inspired by a leadership conference for Latino youth, she and other student leaders from East LA high schools band together, determined to improve the educational system. Although dogged by police spying, discouraged by parents and administrators, and eventually the victims police brutality, they rally their fellow students and begin a tidal wave of protest that changes them forever.
Vega, who was only 16 at the time of filming, carries the film well and lives her performance so completely that it’s easy to forget you’re watching a movie. A strong cast, including Olmos’ son Bodie Olmos (“Battlestar Galactica”) and Michael Pena (“The Shield” and “Million Dollar Baby”), supports her and helps the entire film to feel thoroughly real. Watching “Walkout” is a moving experience.
After the screening, both Edward James Olmos and Bodie Olmos took the stage for a conversation with Mary Greenwood, the first female public defender in Santa Clara County. Edward James Olmos spoke a great deal about his drive to improve the lives of others. He feels that he and his family live a very privileged life and have a responsibility to give more than they receive. Making powerful films that educate as well as entertain, like “Walkout,” “Stand and Deliver,” and “American Me,” is part of that. He added that he’d rather “make one of these every ten to fifteen years” than one film every year without substance.
Olmos said that he hopes “Walkout” will inspire today’s young people to make a difference, and sees evidence that it does so in the reactions of adults who have seen it. “When you empower the youth,” he said, “it gives the adults tremendous fear.” He feels that “Walkout” has the potential to teach highschoolers today how to stage their own walkouts and feels that it may be necessary. “Things have changed,” he said, referring to the practice of beating students who spoke Spanish at school, “Now they don’t hit you openly.” But he added later, “not enough has changed. We still think there’s such a thing as a Latino race, an African race, a European race,” and use that as a cultural determinant, “when there’s only one race: the human race.”
“Walkout” is a look at a vital part of American history, a part that is often forgotten or overlooked. Olmos and the other filmmakers who created it have done an excellent job, and it’s easy to see that Olmos deserves to be called a maverick. “Walkout” will air on HBO on March 18th and Olmos will be taking it from city to city and showing it in one theater at a time until he can get full distribution.
Cinequest Maverick Spirit Award winner William H. Macy is known for his work in independent film, and the screening of “Edmond” at Cinequest last Saturday cemented his reputation for fearless portrayals. Afterwards, Macy and director Stuart Gordon took the stage for a discussion with the audience, moderated by Cinequest President and co-founder Kathleen Powell.
“Edmond” was originally written by David Mamet as a stage play, but he adapted it for the screen and Gordon took the helm. It’s funny sometimes, but it’s not a comedy. It’s horrifying sometimes, but it’s not a horror film. It’s a look at the human condition that is often difficult to watch but will likely satisfy fans of grim New York drama.
The titular character, Edmond, is a well-to-do businessman who realizes he is fed up with his life of pretense. He walks out on both it and on his wife, and decides to live as honestly as he can, doing what he truly wants to do and saying what he truly thinks and feels. As idealistic as this sounds, it leads to chaos and misery. Edmond is humiliated, beaten, and robbed, and his attempts to reach out lead to a horrifying murder.
The audience at the Cinequest screening stuck it out, and were complimented by Gordon and Macy, who said they wished we all could come with them to the next screening. Other audiences have reacted violently -- during the discussion, Gordon described a production of the play which was interrupted when an irate audience member stood up and began screaming at the actors, only to be yelled at in turn by another member of the audience.
Macy recounted his own difficulties with the material, calling it “unsettling” and later adding, “’Edmond’ is the toughest thing I’ve ever done. I’m really please I got the role, [but I] wouldn’t want to do it again.” In answer to a question about what the film’s underlying meaning is, Macy said “truthfully, I don’t understand this movie in terms of what it means. I don’t get it. But all the scenes struck me as true to the human condition.”
On the surface, Gordon is a peculiar choice to direct the film. Known for “Re-Animator” and other horror movies, his filmography is light on drama and heavy on gore. However, he and Mamet have known each other since Mamet and Macy founded a theater company in the latter’s college days. He was drawn to doing a film version of “Edmond” because when he saw the play, it looked to him like a movie. Although he’s been told it’s his best horror flick to date, he disagrees. “The most horrifying things are the ones that really happen. This is a horrifying film,” he said, not a horror movie. Upon being asked if Edmond is insane, he answered, “No. He’s looking for the same thing all of us are looking for: happiness.”
Due to the violence, racial hatred, and homosexual panic it contains, “Edmond” was a difficult film to get made, and is proving equally difficult to get distributed. Although it hasn’t been rated, it could be a strong R for violence, adult themes, and language. With that said, adults who like to be challenged by films won’t want to miss this when it finds a distributor. It’s difficult and provoking, and sure to result in intriguing discussion.
“Thank You For Smoking” gives Cinequest a darkly hilarious opener
Ealasaid A. Haas
Wednesday March 1, Cinequest opened its 16th run in San Jose with a bang of a gala: a handful of speeches, a cynically hilarious film, and a full house at the after-party.
The gala, held at the historic California Theater, had film fans lined up well before the doors opened. After a brief speeches by Cinequest founders Halfdan Hussey and Kathleen J. Powell and plenty of thanks for the festival’s sponsors, they rolled the film.
“Thank You For Smoking” is a razor-sharp comedy about big tobacco lobbyist Nick Naylor (Aaron Eckhart, “Paycheck”, “In the Company of Men”). He makes his living by defending big tobacco and trying to win over the hearts, lungs, and minds of Americans. When a senator (William H. Macy, “Cellular”) launches a bill to get cigarette packs labeled as poison, Nick goes on an all-out blitz to make smoking cool again. Normally he’s unstoppable, but he may be held back by the triple threat of his son’s burgeoning interest in his activities, a legit death threat, and a reporter (Katie Holmes, “Batman Begins”) who looking awfully closely at his business.
The script, based on Christopher Buckley’s novel of the same name, is so sharp it hurts -- both the near-absurd wit and the cynicism hit their marks. The cast members step up to the challenge and deliver performances that walk the line between hysterical and over the top. It’s like watching a brilliant tap-dancing performance by an ensemble -- the timing, energy, choreography, and rhythm combine to provide a thoroughly entertaining, exhilarating spectacle.
After the movie, folks walked over to the Paragon Restaurant & Bar at the Hotel Montgomery for a packed after-party. There was live music, a chocolate fondue fountain, plenty of appetizers, and wine poured by roaming waiters. There was also the Paragon’s bar, staffed by its efficient bartenders. Filmmakers, film fans, and press mingled and schmoozed, and a good time was had by all.
“Thank You For Smoking” opens in limited release on March 17, but Cinequest only runs through March 12. Be sure to check the CineBlog, http://www.ealasaid.com/cineblog/ , for Ealasaid Haas’ and W. Fred Crow’s up-to-the-minute coverage of Cinequest movies and events.
Another Cinequest has come and gone. This year marked the 15th time that maverick filmmakers and fans of independent film have converged on San Jose, and this was the biggest year the festival has had yet. We learned at the closing ceremony that there was a 34% increase in attendance this year over last year, and that the financial impact (from diners at restaurants, folks staying in hotels, and the like) on San Jose was in excess of $3 million. With well over 200 films of various lengths, genres, and styles shown over 12 days, it's easy to see why so many people came in to enjoy the festival.
Not that it was all perfect. There were a few technical problems, and the overwhelming attendance of the more popular films sometimes caused difficulty in getting everyone seated. But the organizers added screenings when possible and smoothed ruffled feathers, and overall the festival was a rousing success.
Maverick Spirit awards were presented to actors Sir Ben Kingsley and Jon Polito at ceremonies with engaging discussions by the actors. The inspiring Emmanuel Yeboah, who rode a bicycle across his home country of Ghana to raise awareness of the disabled, was presented with the Maverick Life Award. Young Blanchard Ryan of the hit film "Open Water" was presented with the Emerging Maverick Award. Numerous other awards were presented to filmmakers: there were the Viewers' Voice Awards, given to films that won the most votes from online viewers; the audience awards, given according to surveys filled out at screenings; jury awards; and special Maverick awards as well. Most of the awards were given at the sold-out Closing Night Gala, which was followed by a rousing party.
Cinequest offers us an international, top-ranking film festival right in our back yard. This annual event is an incredible opportunity. You can check out what W. Fred Crow and Ealasaid Haas thought of the films they caught at http://www.ealasaid.com/cineblog/ and catch many of the films, both shorts and features, online at http://www.cinequestonline.org.
Another Cinequest has come and gone. This year marked the 15th time that maverick filmmakers and fans of independent film have converged on San Jose, and this was the biggest year the festival has had yet. We learned at the closing ceremony that there was a 34% increase in attendance this year over last year, and that the financial impact (from diners at restaurants, folks staying in hotels, and the like) on San Jose was in excess of $3 million. With well over 200 films of various lengths, genres, and styles shown over 12 days, it's easy to see why so many people came in to enjoy the festival.
Not that it was all perfect. There were a few technical problems, and the overwhelming attendance of the more popular films sometimes caused difficulty in getting everyone seated. But the organizers added screenings when possible and smoothed ruffled feathers, and overall the festival was a rousing success.
Maverick Spirit awards were presented to actors Sir Ben Kingsley and Jon Polito at ceremonies with engaging discussions by the actors. The inspiring Emmanuel Yeboah, who rode a bicycle across his home country of Ghana to raise awareness of the disabled, was presented with the Maverick Life Award. Young Blanchard Ryan of the hit film "Open Water" was presented with the Emerging Maverick Award. Numerous other awards were presented to filmmakers: there were the Viewers' Voice Awards, given to films that won the most votes from online viewers; the audience awards, given according to surveys filled out at screenings; jury awards; and special Maverick awards as well. Most of the awards were given at the sold-out Closing Night Gala, which was followed by a rousing party.
Cinequest offers us an international, top-ranking film festival right in our back yard. This annual event is an incredible opportunity. You can check out what W. Fred Crow and Ealasaid Haas thought of the films they caught at http://www.ealasaid.com/cineblog/ and catch many of the films, both shorts and features, online at http://www.cinequestonline.org.
Director: Bruce McDonald
Writer: A. Fraser
Cast: Joely Collins, Hugh Dillon, Ben Bass
United States Premiere
Take a bit of lunacy, mix in a smattering of Pulp Fiction, add lessons from Over The Top Acting 101 and you have "The Love Crimes of Gillian Guess." Surrealistic and camp, this film flopped with me. Not that it didnt try.
Gillian Guess will do anything for a fix at fame. Even to sleeping with an accused murderer where shes on the Jury. She then battles wits with a Jerry Springer wanna-be and things go down hill from there. Fame comes at a price and shes willing to ante up.
The one bright spot for me was meeting young Jessica Amlee (played young Gillian). This little trouper carried her scene whenever she was on screen. She has a great future in celluloid if she wants it.
Rating: 1.5 out of 5 Feathers
W. Fred Crow
ANG Newspapers
Director: Bruce McDonald
Writer: A. Fraser
Cast: Joely Collins, Hugh Dillon, Ben Bass
United States Premiere
Take a bit of lunacy, mix in a smattering of Pulp Fiction, add lessons from Over The Top Acting 101 and you have "The Love Crimes of Gillian Guess." Surrealistic and camp, this film flopped with me. Not that it didnt try.
Gillian Guess will do anything for a fix at fame. Even to sleeping with an accused murderer where shes on the Jury. She then battles wits with a Jerry Springer wanna-be and things go down hill from there. Fame comes at a price and shes willing to ante up.
The one bright spot for me was meeting young Jessica Amlee (played young Gillian). This little trouper carried her scene whenever she was on screen. She has a great future in celluloid if she wants it.
Rating: 1.5 out of 5 Feathers
W. Fred Crow
ANG Newspapers
Director: Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau
Writer: Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau
Cast: Katherine Heigl, Lucian McAfee, Dorian DeMichele, Dave Durbin, Temeceka Harris
World Premiere
Better Living through chemical engineering
Side Effects, a thoroughly enjoyable film, start to finish. A biting piece covered with touching warmth and humor and a feel good essence. Drug dealer Larley Hert make that, pharmaceutical sales person Karley Hert struggles between making it big and making her life happy. She opts for the former only to find that she really wants the latter. Side Effects is a film about doing the right thing at the right time. Along the way were treated to a slipping satire against the worlds biggest drug dealers the legal manufacturer.
Katherine Heigl was wonderful as Karley. She held the camera when on screen and we missed her when she was off screen. There was chemistry between Heigl and Lucian McAfee (playing Zack). McAfee stayed focused on the simple things of life, while Karley was discentered by easy money and even easier success all of which comes at a price.
Side Effects is a good show, solid, and worth the visit to the theater.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Feathers
W. Fred Crow
ANG Newspapers
Director: Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau
Writer: Kathleen Slattery-Moschkau
Cast: Katherine Heigl, Lucian McAfee, Dorian DeMichele, Dave Durbin, Temeceka Harris
World Premiere
Better Living through chemical engineering
Side Effects, a thoroughly enjoyable film, start to finish. A biting piece covered with touching warmth and humor and a feel good essence. Drug dealer Larley Hert make that, pharmaceutical sales person Karley Hert struggles between making it big and making her life happy. She opts for the former only to find that she really wants the latter. Side Effects is a film about doing the right thing at the right time. Along the way were treated to a slipping satire against the worlds biggest drug dealers the legal manufacturer.
Katherine Heigl was wonderful as Karley. She held the camera when on screen and we missed her when she was off screen. There was chemistry between Heigl and Lucian McAfee (playing Zack). McAfee stayed focused on the simple things of life, while Karley was discentered by easy money and even easier success all of which comes at a price.
Side Effects is a good show, solid, and worth the visit to the theater.
Rating: 4.5 out of 5 Feathers
W. Fred Crow
ANG Newspapers
Two actors received the Maverick Spirit Award, Cinequest's highest honor, this year. The renowned Sir Ben Kingsley, known for his work in films like "Ghandi" and "House of Sand and Fog," and actor Jon Polito, a character actor with over 200 credits to his name, both had separate ceremonies and participated in lively moderated discussions with the audience on Saturday, March 5.
Sir Ben Kingsley shed light on his methods of preparation for a role. He explained that first he must either recognize the character he will play or be curious to get to know him better; then he uses that recognition or curiosity, along with careful reading of the script, to really get to know the man well. He said he found that Don Logan, his character in the popular film "Sexy Beast," was filled with "the rage of the unloved child." Sir Ben also described how he got interested in acting: he was at a performance of "Richard III" at Stratford-upon-Avon, with Ian Holm in the title role and was "overwhelmed by his performance." Due to a combination of incredible heat in the theater and his own emotional strain, he actually passed out and had to be revived by an usher before watching the rest of the play. He became determined to act, and the rest is history.
Jon Polito's talk took place after the world premier of his latest film, "Charlie the Ox," in which he has a small but memorable role as an actor who gets caught up in the battle between a safecracker and the gangster who dupes him. Polito was in top form, cracking jokes and keeping the audience equally fascinated and in stitches. He explained that he doesn't do a great deal of preparation in advance for a role, beyond learning the lines; he prefers to see his costume and bounce ideas off the director and actors before making hard decisions about his part. "I think of acting very much like a game, a sport," he said, "you have to jump in and see who's playing." Having done both stage and screen work, he explained that when he's on stage, he can play to the crowd and it works, but that for film, you can't play to the camera. He actually picks people in the crew, people behind the camera, and uses them as his audience so he can forget about the camera.
Overall, Saturday was a delightful afternoon and evening with two chances to learn from these fascinating, but very different, veteran actors. Although there was some difficulty and chaos around the seating for Polito's event, the repeat screening of the film and a repetition of the discussion allowed just about everyone a chance to see him, and both events were a hit with audiences.
Two actors received the Maverick Spirit Award, Cinequest's highest honor, this year. The renowned Sir Ben Kingsley, known for his work in films like "Ghandi" and "House of Sand and Fog," and actor Jon Polito, a character actor with over 200 credits to his name, both had separate ceremonies and participated in lively moderated discussions with the audience on Saturday, March 5.
Sir Ben Kingsley shed light on his methods of preparation for a role. He explained that first he must either recognize the character he will play or be curious to get to know him better; then he uses that recognition or curiosity, along with careful reading of the script, to really get to know the man well. He said he found that Don Logan, his character in the popular film "Sexy Beast," was filled with "the rage of the unloved child." Sir Ben also described how he got interested in acting: he was at a performance of "Richard III" at Stratford-upon-Avon, with Ian Holm in the title role and was "overwhelmed by his performance." Due to a combination of incredible heat in the theater and his own emotional strain, he actually passed out and had to be revived by an usher before watching the rest of the play. He became determined to act, and the rest is history.
Jon Polito's talk took place after the world premier of his latest film, "Charlie the Ox," in which he has a small but memorable role as an actor who gets caught up in the battle between a safecracker and the gangster who dupes him. Polito was in top form, cracking jokes and keeping the audience equally fascinated and in stitches. He explained that he doesn't do a great deal of preparation in advance for a role, beyond learning the lines; he prefers to see his costume and bounce ideas off the director and actors before making hard decisions about his part. "I think of acting very much like a game, a sport," he said, "you have to jump in and see who's playing." Having done both stage and screen work, he explained that when he's on stage, he can play to the crowd and it works, but that for film, you can't play to the camera. He actually picks people in the crew, people behind the camera, and uses them as his audience so he can forget about the camera.
Overall, Saturday was a delightful afternoon and evening with two chances to learn from these fascinating, but very different, veteran actors. Although there was some difficulty and chaos around the seating for Polito's event, the repeat screening of the film and a repetition of the discussion allowed just about everyone a chance to see him, and both events were a hit with audiences.
When discussing great silent movie comedic actors, three names invariably come up: Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Harold Lloyd. Lloyd has been relegated to third genius status for so long that a television documentary about him in 1989 was titled "Harold Lloyd: The Third Genius." Suzanne Lloyd, his granddaughter and co-executive producer of that documentary, has worked tirelessly since Lloyd's death to not only protect his works but promote them, bringing a wider recognition of his achievements to the world. At Cinequest this year, she presided over an event in his honor which included a double feature of Lloyd films ("Safety Last" and "Movie Crazy"), a Q&A, and a screening of some home movies made on the Lloyd estate.
Suzanne was raised by her famous grandparents at their Beverly Hills estate, Green Acres. After Lloyd's death, she inherited most of his films, and has been working since then to restore them and put new scores to the silent films. Now, after many years of those films being virtually unavailable except at the Stanford Theater, Lloyd fans can look forward to a real resurgence of his work. This year alone, there will be a boxed set of DVDs of 31 Lloyd films, a theatrical release of fifteen features, and the Turner Classic Movie channel will be running a marathon of his films in April, then running them off and on all year. As Suzanne put it, "this will be really great, Harold's going to have a really big year."
Suzanne says that her grandfather "hated seeing his movies on television because he hated having them broken up with commercials -- it would ruin the pace. DVDs are perfect for him, Turner Classic Movies is perfect for him." She is also planning to remake "Safety Last" with Mark Gordon (whose credits include "Saving Private Ryan" and "The Day After Tomorrow") producing. The film is currently in pre-production. This week she will also start a new documentary on her grandfather.
Harold Lloyd very much an independent filmmaker. He owned his own studio and kept his crew on salary at all times, which enabled him to have top-notch home movies filmed at the drop of a hat. He often called his crew in to do home movies so they would keep in practice and the 35mm films shot by them are a wonderful look at his home life.
Lloyd also broke new ground in a number of cinematic areas. He essentially invented the test screening, showing his films in small towns outside Los Angeles to test audience reaction and then made changes to improve the movies. His camerawork was constantly breaking new ground, both in terms of hardware and camera angles. In fact, the famous chariot scene in "Ben Hur" copied the below-ground camera angle from one of Lloyd's films. He was also the first person to shoot on location, and embraced both color and sound as soon as they became available. Indeed, some of the test footage shot by Technicolor was done on Lloyd's estate, and that footage will be available as a bonus feature in the DVD set. It's easy to see why Cinequest, which focuses on mavericks filmmaking, chose to have a tribute to Lloyd.
With a big year ahead, Harold Lloyd's star is clearly on the rise once again. His appeal is universal: "he helps kids, he's kind to dogs," Suzanne Lloyd says, "he's always very kind but also very resourceful." Lloyd's films are always a hit with children, as well, so families will doubtless want to keep a sharp lookout for his films.
When discussing great silent movie comedic actors, three names invariably come up: Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, and Harold Lloyd. Lloyd has been relegated to third genius status for so long that a television documentary about him in 1989 was titled "Harold Lloyd: The Third Genius." Suzanne Lloyd, his granddaughter and co-executive producer of that documentary, has worked tirelessly since Lloyd's death to not only protect his works but promote them, bringing a wider recognition of his achievements to the world. At Cinequest this year, she presided over an event in his honor which included a double feature of Lloyd films ("Safety Last" and "Movie Crazy"), a Q&A, and a screening of some home movies made on the Lloyd estate.
Suzanne was raised by her famous grandparents at their Beverly Hills estate, Green Acres. After Lloyd's death, she inherited most of his films, and has been working since then to restore them and put new scores to the silent films. Now, after many years of those films being virtually unavailable except at the Stanford Theater, Lloyd fans can look forward to a real resurgence of his work. This year alone, there will be a boxed set of DVDs of 31 Lloyd films, a theatrical release of fifteen features, and the Turner Classic Movie channel will be running a marathon of his films in April, then running them off and on all year. As Suzanne put it, "this will be really great, Harold's going to have a really big year."
Suzanne says that her grandfather "hated seeing his movies on television because he hated having them broken up with commercials -- it would ruin the pace. DVDs are perfect for him, Turner Classic Movies is perfect for him." She is also planning to remake "Safety Last" with Mark Gordon (whose credits include "Saving Private Ryan" and "The Day After Tomorrow") producing. The film is currently in pre-production. This week she will also start a new documentary on her grandfather.
Harold Lloyd very much an independent filmmaker. He owned his own studio and kept his crew on salary at all times, which enabled him to have top-notch home movies filmed at the drop of a hat. He often called his crew in to do home movies so they would keep in practice and the 35mm films shot by them are a wonderful look at his home life.
Lloyd also broke new ground in a number of cinematic areas. He essentially invented the test screening, showing his films in small towns outside Los Angeles to test audience reaction and then made changes to improve the movies. His camerawork was constantly breaking new ground, both in terms of hardware and camera angles. In fact, the famous chariot scene in "Ben Hur" copied the below-ground camera angle from one of Lloyd's films. He was also the first person to shoot on location, and embraced both color and sound as soon as they became available. Indeed, some of the test footage shot by Technicolor was done on Lloyd's estate, and that footage will be available as a bonus feature in the DVD set. It's easy to see why Cinequest, which focuses on mavericks filmmaking, chose to have a tribute to Lloyd.
With a big year ahead, Harold Lloyd's star is clearly on the rise once again. His appeal is universal: "he helps kids, he's kind to dogs," Suzanne Lloyd says, "he's always very kind but also very resourceful." Lloyd's films are always a hit with children, as well, so families will doubtless want to keep a sharp lookout for his films.
Jan and Sofia Laskowski have been attending Cinequest since the first festival fifteen years ago, "back when it was easy -- it was just three days," as Jan puts it. The long-time Mountain View residents have kept up with the changes since then, developing a complicated system to choose which movies they want to see at the festival. They see about 150 movies a year at theaters like the Camera 7 and Camera 12, and they have attended Cinequest every single year, including the one year it was in Milpitas!
The festival has changed a great deal since that first three-day weekend. Cinequest has grown tremendously, both in terms of length and the scope of the films. "One thing you can say about Cinequest," Jan observes, "you end up traveling to a different country every year." Sofia agrees. She travels for business all over the world, and says that films let you see a country "as a local sees it, not as a tourist [does]."
At the Opening Night Gala party, they discussed some of the films they are planning to see. They rate the films themselves, then listen to word of mouth reports from their friends and read the reviews at the official Cinequest website. Finally, they merge those ratings and pick out the films they want to see. "There are so many!" Sofia exclaims, when asked which in particular she's looking forward to. Jan agrees. One thing Cinequest can guarantee: even picky cinephiles will have a wealth of films to chose from.
Jan and Sofia Laskowski have been attending Cinequest since the first festival fifteen years ago, "back when it was easy -- it was just three days," as Jan puts it. The long-time Mountain View residents have kept up with the changes since then, developing a complicated system to choose which movies they want to see at the festival. They see about 150 movies a year at theaters like the Camera 7 and Camera 12, and they have attended Cinequest every single year, including the one year it was in Milpitas!
The festival has changed a great deal since that first three-day weekend. Cinequest has grown tremendously, both in terms of length and the scope of the films. "One thing you can say about Cinequest," Jan observes, "you end up traveling to a different country every year." Sofia agrees. She travels for business all over the world, and says that films let you see a country "as a local sees it, not as a tourist [does]."
At the Opening Night Gala party, they discussed some of the films they are planning to see. They rate the films themselves, then listen to word of mouth reports from their friends and read the reviews at the official Cinequest website. Finally, they merge those ratings and pick out the films they want to see. "There are so many!" Sofia exclaims, when asked which in particular she's looking forward to. Jan agrees. One thing Cinequest can guarantee: even picky cinephiles will have a wealth of films to chose from.
The Bay Area has a wealth of independent film, from the festivals that crop up year round to the network of art houses circling the Bay. The crown jewel in the Bay Areas indie film scene is Cinequest, which starts next week. Cinequest is San Joses annual Maverick film festival, twelve days of independent films, panels, classes, and events celebrating emerging and cutting-edge filmmakers. This year it runs from March 2 through March 13, and will screen nearly 200 feature and short films.
The festival kicks off at 7:30 pm on March 2 with "A Manual for Love Stories" at the California Theater, followed by a gala with the filmmakers at the Hotel Montgomery. "A Manual for Love Stories" is a delightful Brazilian film which takes on all the clichs of a romantic comedy as it follows an unlikely couple from their initially disastrous meeting to their happily ever after. The narrator explains the process of creating a romantic comedy to us, and occasionally has to force his recalcitrant hero to follow the rules.
Following the opening gala, the festival hits the ground running. The heart of the festival is Camera 12, which has devoted four screens to the festival. There will also be screenings at San Jose Repertory Theater, which has been converted into a cutting-edge digital theater; on San Jose State University campus; and at the California Theater, a restored motion picture palace built in the twenties. All four venues are within walking distance of each other.
The California Theater even has a pipe organ, which will be accompanying the two silent film events of the festival. On Friday, March 4 there will be a double feature of Harold Lloyd films: "Safety Last" (1923) and "Movie Crazy" (1932). Suzanne Lloyd, granddaughter of Harold Lloyd and Lloyd historian, will speak and answer questions after the films. The following Friday, March 11, there will be a double feature of "Carmen" (1915) and "La Bohme" (1926).
There will be more than seventy feature length films shown at the festival, many of them accompanied by short films, plus eight short film programs. The features range from a Swedish documentary about a little town with a passion for arm wrestling ("The Armwrestler from Solitude") to a sci-fi fantasy filmed entirely in front of a green screen ("Able Edwards"). There are comedies and tragedies, thrillers and oddities. The films come from all over the world, and some of them were filmed right here in the Bay Area.
Those who can't make it to San Jose for the festival but who have access to a good internet connection are in luck; cinequestonline.org will be showing the films and events online in DVD quality streams. There is also a special contest on the site: The Viewers' Voice Collection and Competition, which runs through the end of February. Viewers can download the competing films and vote on them. At the end of the month, the top three features and the top three shorts will be awarded special screening slots during the festival.
Cinequest offers classes as well; there will be two all-day series of classes, one for screenwriters (Friday March 11) and one for producers (Saturday, March 12). Both classes are geared toward all levels, so both novices and pros are encouraged to check them out. Cinequest is also offering, for the fifth year in a row, a four-day symposium on digital filmmaking. Sponsored by technology partners like Adobe, Kontiki, and PalmSource and presented by the people who are developing and using these new technologies, the Digital by Digital forums offer a look at the latest in film technology. They promise to be fascinating for both filmmakers and film buffs alike. This year, the five presentations will be covering affordable digital effects, new distribution and delivery methods for completed films, a comparison of the different digital options available for both recording and showing, video for mobile devices like Palm Pilots, and the effects of affordable high-quality digital technology on film as an artistic medium.
Another annual event at Cinequest is the presentation of the Maverick Spirit Award, the festival's highest honor. Each year, an exceptional filmmaker who represents the Maverick spirit is chosen and invited to the festival. Past recipients have included John Waters, Gus Van Sant, Kevin Spacey, Spike Lee, Sir Ian McKellan, and William H. Macy. This year, Sir Ben Kingsley will be receiving the award and participating in a lively moderated conversation with the audience. Sir Ben is best known for his work in the films "Gandhi" and "Sexy Beast," and is recognized as a phenomenal actor of both stage and screen. An Afternoon with Sir Ben Kingsley will take place on Saturday, March 5 at 2:00 pm, at the California Theater.
Cinequest offers the Bay Area the chance to attend an international film festival right in our back yard. Whether you're a film love, a film maker, or someone hoping to break into the industry, it has a lot to offer. Tickets are available online at www.cinequest.org or by phone at (408) 295-FEST. There are numerous options for those interested in attending, from passes to tickets to individual events.
The Bay Area has a wealth of independent film, from the festivals that crop up year round to the network of art houses circling the Bay. The crown jewel in the Bay Areas indie film scene is Cinequest, which starts next week. Cinequest is San Joses annual Maverick film festival, twelve days of independent films, panels, classes, and events celebrating emerging and cutting-edge filmmakers. This year it runs from March 2 through March 13, and will screen nearly 200 feature and short films.
The festival kicks off at 7:30 pm on March 2 with "A Manual for Love Stories" at the California Theater, followed by a gala with the filmmakers at the Hotel Montgomery. "A Manual for Love Stories" is a delightful Brazilian film which takes on all the clichs of a romantic comedy as it follows an unlikely couple from their initially disastrous meeting to their happily ever after. The narrator explains the process of creating a romantic comedy to us, and occasionally has to force his recalcitrant hero to follow the rules.
Following the opening gala, the festival hits the ground running. The heart of the festival is Camera 12, which has devoted four screens to the festival. There will also be screenings at San Jose Repertory Theater, which has been converted into a cutting-edge digital theater; on San Jose State University campus; and at the California Theater, a restored motion picture palace built in the twenties. All four venues are within walking distance of each other.
The California Theater even has a pipe organ, which will be accompanying the two silent film events of the festival. On Friday, March 4 there will be a double feature of Harold Lloyd films: "Safety Last" (1923) and "Movie Crazy" (1932). Suzanne Lloyd, granddaughter of Harold Lloyd and Lloyd historian, will speak and answer questions after the films. The following Friday, March 11, there will be a double feature of "Carmen" (1915) and "La Bohme" (1926).
There will be more than seventy feature length films shown at the festival, many of them accompanied by short films, plus eight short film programs. The features range from a Swedish documentary about a little town with a passion for arm wrestling ("The Armwrestler from Solitude") to a sci-fi fantasy filmed entirely in front of a green screen ("Able Edwards"). There are comedies and tragedies, thrillers and oddities. The films come from all over the world, and some of them were filmed right here in the Bay Area.
Those who can't make it to San Jose for the festival but who have access to a good internet connection are in luck; cinequestonline.org will be showing the films and events online in DVD quality streams. There is also a special contest on the site: The Viewers' Voice Collection and Competition, which runs through the end of February. Viewers can download the competing films and vote on them. At the end of the month, the top three features and the top three shorts will be awarded special screening slots during the festival.
Cinequest offers classes as well; there will be two all-day series of classes, one for screenwriters (Friday March 11) and one for producers (Saturday, March 12). Both classes are geared toward all levels, so both novices and pros are encouraged to check them out. Cinequest is also offering, for the fifth year in a row, a four-day symposium on digital filmmaking. Sponsored by technology partners like Adobe, Kontiki, and PalmSource and presented by the people who are developing and using these new technologies, the Digital by Digital forums offer a look at the latest in film technology. They promise to be fascinating for both filmmakers and film buffs alike. This year, the five presentations will be covering affordable digital effects, new distribution and delivery methods for completed films, a comparison of the different digital options available for both recording and showing, video for mobile devices like Palm Pilots, and the effects of affordable high-quality digital technology on film as an artistic medium.
Another annual event at Cinequest is the presentation of the Maverick Spirit Award, the festival's highest honor. Each year, an exceptional filmmaker who represents the Maverick spirit is chosen and invited to the festival. Past recipients have included John Waters, Gus Van Sant, Kevin Spacey, Spike Lee, Sir Ian McKellan, and William H. Macy. This year, Sir Ben Kingsley will be receiving the award and participating in a lively moderated conversation with the audience. Sir Ben is best known for his work in the films "Gandhi" and "Sexy Beast," and is recognized as a phenomenal actor of both stage and screen. An Afternoon with Sir Ben Kingsley will take place on Saturday, March 5 at 2:00 pm, at the California Theater.
Cinequest offers the Bay Area the chance to attend an international film festival right in our back yard. Whether you're a film love, a film maker, or someone hoping to break into the industry, it has a lot to offer. Tickets are available online at www.cinequest.org or by phone at (408) 295-FEST. There are numerous options for those interested in attending, from passes to tickets to individual events.
Ealasaid looks back at the festival now that it's over.
Cinequest 14: A Personal Perspective
Ealasaid A. Haas
Cinequest, San Jose's annual film festival celebrating the maverick spirit, ran from March 3 through March 14 of this year. As you may have guessed from the capsule reviews published over the last few weeks, your humble reviewer spent the last week and a half watching as many movies as humanly possible. Cinequest 14 was a phenomenal event, and those who weren't able to make it down to San Jose for any of the films should definitely mark their calendars for next March and watch www.cinequest.org for updates on the schedule for Cinequest 15.
Cinequest is a marvelous experience: a rare opportunity for folks in this area to see independent films without having to drive up to San Francisco. Cinequest is made up of films of every stripe from documentaries to dramas, comedies to heartbreaking tragedies. They come from the heart of their makers, because independent films usually aren't big money these are films made by people who really cared about their projects.
This festival is run by volunteers, and although there were numerous technical problems scattered through the screenings the volunteers stayed cheerful and nearly all of the 68 films scheduled were shown. It's a lot of fun to stroll in the cool evening air from one screening to another and think about the fact that these films would be almost impossible to find if not for festivals like Cinequest.
Many of the films shown were delightful, and all of them were interesting or unusual. "Dorian Blues" in particular is worth mentioning this coming-of-age story is a funny and at times heartwrenching study of a young gay man trying to make it out of high school with his sanity intact. The documentaries shown were also a pleasure, particularly the thoughtful study of Imelda Marcos, "Imelda", and the quiet and moving "Story of the Weeping Camel." The shorts programs were well-chosen, and the forums were packed with information for folks interested in the process of making an independent film.
If you have a good internet connection, many of the shorts and several of the features are available for secure download at www.cinequestonline.org and you can read capsule reviews of the films W. Fred Crow and myself saw at www.ealasaid.com/cineblog2004/ Cinequest was a great festival, and although I'm exhausted from the strain of seeing and writing about 25 films in only a couple of weeks, it was a lot of fun.
Ealasaid looks back at the festival now that it's over.
Cinequest 14: A Personal Perspective
Ealasaid A. Haas
Cinequest, San Jose's annual film festival celebrating the maverick spirit, ran from March 3 through March 14 of this year. As you may have guessed from the capsule reviews published over the last few weeks, your humble reviewer spent the last week and a half watching as many movies as humanly possible. Cinequest 14 was a phenomenal event, and those who weren't able to make it down to San Jose for any of the films should definitely mark their calendars for next March and watch www.cinequest.org for updates on the schedule for Cinequest 15.
Cinequest is a marvelous experience: a rare opportunity for folks in this area to see independent films without having to drive up to San Francisco. Cinequest is made up of films of every stripe from documentaries to dramas, comedies to heartbreaking tragedies. They come from the heart of their makers, because independent films usually aren't big money these are films made by people who really cared about their projects.
This festival is run by volunteers, and although there were numerous technical problems scattered through the screenings the volunteers stayed cheerful and nearly all of the 68 films scheduled were shown. It's a lot of fun to stroll in the cool evening air from one screening to another and think about the fact that these films would be almost impossible to find if not for festivals like Cinequest.
Many of the films shown were delightful, and all of them were interesting or unusual. "Dorian Blues" in particular is worth mentioning this coming-of-age story is a funny and at times heartwrenching study of a young gay man trying to make it out of high school with his sanity intact. The documentaries shown were also a pleasure, particularly the thoughtful study of Imelda Marcos, "Imelda", and the quiet and moving "Story of the Weeping Camel." The shorts programs were well-chosen, and the forums were packed with information for folks interested in the process of making an independent film.
If you have a good internet connection, many of the shorts and several of the features are available for secure download at www.cinequestonline.org and you can read capsule reviews of the films W. Fred Crow and myself saw at www.ealasaid.com/cineblog2004/ Cinequest was a great festival, and although I'm exhausted from the strain of seeing and writing about 25 films in only a couple of weeks, it was a lot of fun.
Opening Night/"United" Screening
The 14th Annual San Jose Film Festival
It's that time of year. Celluloid is in the air. Lights are being dimmed in theaters. Stories are being told. Directors and Screen writers, actors and producers, filmologists of local note and world renown have descended upon San Jose en masse to share some of the world's interesting, entertaining, creative, oddball, and "out-there" films. Cinequest opened the 14th Annual San Jose Film Festival March 3 to an excited and expectant audience.
It's time for the Maverick filmmaker to bring their wares to the Silicon Valley public. Mavericks stretch the envelope in creative thought and process. Mavericks seek to discover new and rewarding ways to tell a tale. Mavericks sometimes leave mainstream to explore strange personal places. An estimated 300 film makers and 60,000 film goers will be attending any of the 174 films being shown. The festival runs through March 14 and printed guides showing schedules and locations are a-plenty downtown San Jose.
San Jose Mayor Ron Gonzales welcomed the enthusiastic crowd to a 12-day feast of film and warned that next year would bigger and better as he outlined
revitalization changes being planned to downtown San Jose and highlighted possible new venues to be made available to Cinequest.
Films came from around the globe. Films with a Latino connection, films from the Pacific Basin, films that focus on Norway. There are drama and comedies and
science fiction films. There are specialty short films of various types. Films of all kinds. In addition, there are forums on movie making and film selling.
The capstone of the evening was the North American premiere of "United," a romantic comedy about love and soccer. It's not quite the festival discovery as "A Beautiful Mind," from years ago, but "United" will leave you smiling. Filmed in a small Western Norwegian town, the story is simple and delightful. Kare (Havard Lilleheie) has a personal dream of playing for the English soccer team, Manchester United. He also wishes to wed the beautiful Anna (Berte Rommetveit). Unfortunately, he dreams larger than his initiative and ends up working in a warehouse. Waiting for Kare to mature, the frustrated Anna is being chased by Stian, owner of the same warehouse. Dragging his feet, Kare keeps tabs on the soccer world by coaching local kids. Iversen, played by 12-year old Sondre Sorheim, was almost a scene stealer having some great lines and a strong, natural delivery.
The delight of the night for me was to meet the "United" director, producer and the romantic leads. This was director Magnus Martens' first feature film in which he offered a smooth and touchable story, the actors sensitive and real and reacting well to one another. Martens experience in television and commercials and working with children helped him tend reign on his young group.
His cast didn't come completely from stardom. Rather, it was gathered, in part, by serendipity. Rommetveit, offering only some local theater, was chosen over 30 more experienced women. Lilleheie did came with TV and standup comedy credits (and had already worked with Martens) on other projects. The engaging Sorheim was discovered simply walking with his family in the neighborhood while waiting his turn for an audition. Remarkably, the film only took five weeks to shoot. The film is rich in local scenery, a gentle spirit, and a wonderful story. Even with English subtitles, the movie was a treat.
###
Opening Night/"United" Screening
The 14th Annual San Jose Film Festival
It's that time of year. Celluloid is in the air. Lights are being dimmed in theaters. Stories are being told. Directors and Screen writers, actors and producers, filmologists of local note and world renown have descended upon San Jose en masse to share some of the world's interesting, entertaining, creative, oddball, and "out-there" films. Cinequest opened the 14th Annual San Jose Film Festival March 3 to an excited and expectant audience.
It's time for the Maverick filmmaker to bring their wares to the Silicon Valley public. Mavericks stretch the envelope in creative thought and process. Mavericks seek to discover new and rewarding ways to tell a tale. Mavericks sometimes leave mainstream to explore strange personal places. An estimated 300 film makers and 60,000 film goers will be attending any of the 174 films being shown. The festival runs through March 14 and printed guides showing schedules and locations are a-plenty downtown San Jose.
San Jose Mayor Ron Gonzales welcomed the enthusiastic crowd to a 12-day feast of film and warned that next year would bigger and better as he outlined
revitalization changes being planned to downtown San Jose and highlighted possible new venues to be made available to Cinequest.
Films came from around the globe. Films with a Latino connection, films from the Pacific Basin, films that focus on Norway. There are drama and comedies and
science fiction films. There are specialty short films of various types. Films of all kinds. In addition, there are forums on movie making and film selling.
The capstone of the evening was the North American premiere of "United," a romantic comedy about love and soccer. It's not quite the festival discovery as "A Beautiful Mind," from years ago, but "United" will leave you smiling. Filmed in a small Western Norwegian town, the story is simple and delightful. Kare (Havard Lilleheie) has a personal dream of playing for the English soccer team, Manchester United. He also wishes to wed the beautiful Anna (Berte Rommetveit). Unfortunately, he dreams larger than his initiative and ends up working in a warehouse. Waiting for Kare to mature, the frustrated Anna is being chased by Stian, owner of the same warehouse. Dragging his feet, Kare keeps tabs on the soccer world by coaching local kids. Iversen, played by 12-year old Sondre Sorheim, was almost a scene stealer having some great lines and a strong, natural delivery.
The delight of the night for me was to meet the "United" director, producer and the romantic leads. This was director Magnus Martens' first feature film in which he offered a smooth and touchable story, the actors sensitive and real and reacting well to one another. Martens experience in television and commercials and working with children helped him tend reign on his young group.
His cast didn't come completely from stardom. Rather, it was gathered, in part, by serendipity. Rommetveit, offering only some local theater, was chosen over 30 more experienced women. Lilleheie did came with TV and standup comedy credits (and had already worked with Martens) on other projects. The engaging Sorheim was discovered simply walking with his family in the neighborhood while waiting his turn for an audition. Remarkably, the film only took five weeks to shoot. The film is rich in local scenery, a gentle spirit, and a wonderful story. Even with English subtitles, the movie was a treat.
###
Director/Writer Seisoku Kajita; Starring Ken Ogata, Komaki Kurihara, Issa Hentona, Ryoko Kuninaka, and Masahiko.
Screenings: 03/06 12:00pm (Rep); 03/09 2:30pm 03/12 2:30pm (UT-SJSU);
Japanese with English subtitles
United States Primiere
A turn in the road and reflecting mirrors may be metaphors for man's search for direction, but sometimes a film is just a film and the suggested symbolism is in the eye of the beholder.
Minagawa is involved in an accident where he nearly runs over a child. The cause is possibly a dirty traffic mirror used to see around blind corners. His perfectly ordered world comes to a standstill as he becomes fixated on the accident site. After 30 years of working without taking a vacation, Minagawa abandons his family and employment without explanation and begins cleaning all the traffic mirrors in town. That not being enough, he expands his efforts to include all the traffic mirrors in the nation. His compulsive obsessive behavior begins to alienate his children leaving his wife unsure how to defend or even understand him.
Much of the slow paced film is viewed with Minagawa riding a bicycle or sitting atop a step ladder polishing mirrors, maybe too much so. And, much of the development of Minagawa's depression and aberrant behavior was left to the viewer.
Still, the film offered a comfortable view of the orderliness of Japanese life, the distress of a caring wife, and a quiet and unique conclusion. Included are some beautiful views of the Japanese landscape.
Director/Writer Seisoku Kajita; Starring Ken Ogata, Komaki Kurihara, Issa Hentona, Ryoko Kuninaka, and Masahiko.
Screenings: 03/06 12:00pm (Rep); 03/09 2:30pm 03/12 2:30pm (UT-SJSU);
Japanese with English subtitles
United States Primiere
A turn in the road and reflecting mirrors may be metaphors for man's search for direction, but sometimes a film is just a film and the suggested symbolism is in the eye of the beholder.
Minagawa is involved in an accident where he nearly runs over a child. The cause is possibly a dirty traffic mirror used to see around blind corners. His perfectly ordered world comes to a standstill as he becomes fixated on the accident site. After 30 years of working without taking a vacation, Minagawa abandons his family and employment without explanation and begins cleaning all the traffic mirrors in town. That not being enough, he expands his efforts to include all the traffic mirrors in the nation. His compulsive obsessive behavior begins to alienate his children leaving his wife unsure how to defend or even understand him.
Much of the slow paced film is viewed with Minagawa riding a bicycle or sitting atop a step ladder polishing mirrors, maybe too much so. And, much of the development of Minagawa's depression and aberrant behavior was left to the viewer.
Still, the film offered a comfortable view of the orderliness of Japanese life, the distress of a caring wife, and a quiet and unique conclusion. Included are some beautiful views of the Japanese landscape.
Cinequest 14, San Joses annual film festival, is running March 3 through March 14 this year and its schedule is packed with maverick films and events honoring maverick filmmakers. This year the honored guests are Kurt Miller, David and Janet Peoples, and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
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An Afternoon With David & Janet Peoples
3/12/04 2:00 pm
Morris Dailey Auditorium, San Jose State University An Evening with Kurt Miller 3/11/04 9:00 pm Morris Dailey Auditorium, San Jose State University Life of a Maverick (Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger) Tentatively scheduled during Cinequest Date and time TBD Check www.cinequest.org for schedule updates Tickets available by calling (408) 295-FEST or at www.cinequest.org |
David and Janet Peoples are screenwriters whose resume includes Blade Runner, Unforgiven, Ladyhawke, and 12 Monkeys. They are known for their meticulous work habits and well-crafted characters, and many of their scripts have become widely-praised films. They will be presented with a Maverick Spirit Award during the festival, and will spend an afternoon sharing their personal perspectives on screenwriting and filmmaking.
Kurt Miller, son of famed filmmaker Warren Miller, will also be presented with a Maverick Spirit Award. The Millers go to the edge, making films about extreme sports and catching the worlds greatest athletes on film as the pushed themselves to the limit. An entrepreneur as well as a director and producer, Kurt Miller expanded his fathers audience and spent fifteen years as President and Chairperson of Warren Miller Entertainment. He sold the company to AOL Time Warner in 2002 and now is heading Synergy Group, which specializes in live events.
Finally, a Maverick Spirit Award will be presented to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at the Life of a Maverick event. Governor Schwarzenegger has long been known for setting lofty goals for himself and always reaching them. From dominating the sport of bodybuilding to taking box offices by storm as an actor, Schwarzenegger has long been in the public eye. Former Mayor of San Jose Tom McEnery will moderate a conversation with the Governor, with select audience questions to follow.
Cinequest 14 will also feature a series of forums on Digital Media. These forums will discuss the current state of the technology as well as speculating on what is to come. The Cinequest Digital Media Showcase will convert the four digital venues into state-of-the-art digital movie houses to screen six films all shot in Hi-Definition 24p.
For those interested in the process of making movies there is also a series of forums on scriptwriting and distributing movies. Day of the Writer is a series of forums about the basics of writing for the screen and what to do with your script once its written. Day of Distribution is a pair of forums about producing and selling independent films.
There are a total of 68 films being screened at the festival, 15 of them world premiers. The films come from all around the world, and there are showcases of Norwegian, Pacific Basin, and Latino films. Theres something here for everyone, from the desert documentary The Story of the Weeping Camel to sci-fi ghost tale Spectres to short films of every stripe.
Cinequest 14, San Joses annual film festival, is running March 3 through March 14 this year and its schedule is packed with maverick films and events honoring maverick filmmakers. This year the honored guests are Kurt Miller, David and Janet Peoples, and Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger.
|
An Afternoon With David & Janet Peoples
3/12/04 2:00 pm
Morris Dailey Auditorium, San Jose State University An Evening with Kurt Miller 3/11/04 9:00 pm Morris Dailey Auditorium, San Jose State University Life of a Maverick (Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger) Tentatively scheduled during Cinequest Date and time TBD Check www.cinequest.org for schedule updates Tickets available by calling (408) 295-FEST or at www.cinequest.org |
David and Janet Peoples are screenwriters whose resume includes Blade Runner, Unforgiven, Ladyhawke, and 12 Monkeys. They are known for their meticulous work habits and well-crafted characters, and many of their scripts have become widely-praised films. They will be presented with a Maverick Spirit Award during the festival, and will spend an afternoon sharing their personal perspectives on screenwriting and filmmaking.
Kurt Miller, son of famed filmmaker Warren Miller, will also be presented with a Maverick Spirit Award. The Millers go to the edge, making films about extreme sports and catching the worlds greatest athletes on film as the pushed themselves to the limit. An entrepreneur as well as a director and producer, Kurt Miller expanded his fathers audience and spent fifteen years as President and Chairperson of Warren Miller Entertainment. He sold the company to AOL Time Warner in 2002 and now is heading Synergy Group, which specializes in live events.
Finally, a Maverick Spirit Award will be presented to Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at the Life of a Maverick event. Governor Schwarzenegger has long been known for setting lofty goals for himself and always reaching them. From dominating the sport of bodybuilding to taking box offices by storm as an actor, Schwarzenegger has long been in the public eye. Former Mayor of San Jose Tom McEnery will moderate a conversation with the Governor, with select audience questions to follow.
Cinequest 14 will also feature a series of forums on Digital Media. These forums will discuss the current state of the technology as well as speculating on what is to come. The Cinequest Digital Media Showcase will convert the four digital venues into state-of-the-art digital movie houses to screen six films all shot in Hi-Definition 24p.
For those interested in the process of making movies there is also a series of forums on scriptwriting and distributing movies. Day of the Writer is a series of forums about the basics of writing for the screen and what to do with your script once its written. Day of Distribution is a pair of forums about producing and selling independent films.
There are a total of 68 films being screened at the festival, 15 of them world premiers. The films come from all around the world, and there are showcases of Norwegian, Pacific Basin, and Latino films. Theres something here for everyone, from the desert documentary The Story of the Weeping Camel to sci-fi ghost tale Spectres to short films of every stripe.
There are plenty of film festivals every year, all over the country. Those of us in the San Francisco Bay area are particularly lucky, for we have not only the wealth of small film festivals that pop up irregularly during the year but also Cinequest, the annual festival in San Jose.
Cinequest isn't just another film festival, either. Along with Cannes, Toronto, Telluride, and Sundance, it has been named one of the Top Ten Film Festivals in the world by the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide.
The festival begins on March 3, 2004 and runs through March 14, 2004. 58,000 people are expected to flood into San Jose to see the 68 films which make up this year's program. Of those films, many will be premiering 15 world premiers, 12 North American premiers, and 11 United States premiers. 10 of the feature-length films were made right here in the Bay Area, and a number of the short films are by local students. This year Cinequest will feature events honoring maverick filmmakers of all stripes, from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to writers David and Janet Peoples to extreme movie maker Kurt Miller.
There are Cinequest schedule books available for free anywhere you'd find free publications. They include schedule information, summaries of the films, and information about the other events taking place during the festival. Be sure to pick one up! You don't have to buy an expensive pass if you just want to see some of the movies.
Watch this space for information and reviews as the festival approaches.
There are plenty of film festivals every year, all over the country. Those of us in the San Francisco Bay area are particularly lucky, for we have not only the wealth of small film festivals that pop up irregularly during the year but also Cinequest, the annual festival in San Jose.
Cinequest isn't just another film festival, either. Along with Cannes, Toronto, Telluride, and Sundance, it has been named one of the Top Ten Film Festivals in the world by the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide.
The festival begins on March 3, 2004 and runs through March 14, 2004. 58,000 people are expected to flood into San Jose to see the 68 films which make up this year's program. Of those films, many will be premiering 15 world premiers, 12 North American premiers, and 11 United States premiers. 10 of the feature-length films were made right here in the Bay Area, and a number of the short films are by local students. This year Cinequest will feature events honoring maverick filmmakers of all stripes, from Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger to writers David and Janet Peoples to extreme movie maker Kurt Miller.
There are Cinequest schedule books available for free anywhere you'd find free publications. They include schedule information, summaries of the films, and information about the other events taking place during the festival. Be sure to pick one up! You don't have to buy an expensive pass if you just want to see some of the movies.
Watch this space for information and reviews as the festival approaches.