Tuesday, September 30, 2003

‘CITY OF GOD’ DIRECTOR SUPPORTS ACTION FOR BRAZIL’S CHILDREN

Leading Brazilian director Fernando Meirelles has agreed to support Action for Brazil’s Children Trust (ABC Trust) by attending a special Charity screening of his movie at the Everyman in Hampstead, London on October 8th, 2003.

Following a reception and screening of the film, Meirelles will attend a Question & Answer session, chaired by journalist Ian Hayden-Smith. The Charity’s founder Trustee Jimena Page and CEO Mark Ereira will also answer queries relating to ABC Trust’s work.

Meirelles graduated in architecture before working on TV and then
advertising films. His 02 Filmes studio has become the largest in Brazil and he has won many prizes for his work in commercials. Meirelles directed his first feature film in 1997 and released ‘City of God’ in 2002. Based on Paulo Lins’ best selling novel ‘Cidade de Deus’ the film is shocking, thrilling and often uncomfortably funny. Set in the world’s most notorious slum, it is undeniably one of the most vital and entertaining films of the last decade. The story is based on true characters and charts the story of a young boy, whose ambition is to become a photographer and escape the world
of drug dealing and crime, which has become everyday life for millions of children living on the streets of Brazil.

Meirelles’ experiences working with street children in Rio, many of whom feature in the film, led him to set up a Charity film project, Nos Do Cinema, which is now supported by ABC Trust. Commenting on this, Meirelles said: "I am very excited at the prospect of ABC Trust supporting 'Nos do Cinema'. I have been producing a TV series with the same group of kids who
figured in 'City of Gods' and have had more outstanding results. This is so much more than Charity, this is an investment in new talent and the future! We have kids who will grow into excellent actors, directors and technicians and that is what I'm interested in: quality." Mark Ereira, who will introduce Meirelles on the 8th, said: ‘We’re delighted that Fernando has agreed to help us. ‘City of God’ itself and the local film project he has subsequently set up amply demonstrate his genuine and ongoing commitment.
The philosophy behind Nos do Cinema is in total keeping with our remit, to empower kids off the street and into a meaningful future.”

Meirelles will also attend an MVC/Warner Village screening of ‘City of God’ in Birmingham on Oct 9th to mark the DVD launch. MVC have also organised an in store signing in Chiswick on Oct 10th. These events will also support ABC Trust’s work.

For details of these screenings visit the ABC Trust website.

Friday, September 26, 2003

17th Leeds International Film Festival

There will be over 200 screenings and events from 2 to 12 October at the Leeds International Film Festival. The Opening Gala features Bright Young Things and on the last day there's a Film Music Gala at Leeds Town Hall. Full details can be found at: www.leedsfilm.com

If you would like to report on this event for Talking Pictures we can supply a press pass. Preference will be given for people who have already written for our website. We cannot pay for travel, accommodation or other expenses but this is a great opportunity to join-in one of the best film festivals in the UK, network with filmmakers, and we'll put your reviews and reports on Talking Pictures. Email me as soon as possible if you would like to attend: valis23a@aol.com

Tuesday, September 23, 2003

MOVIES GET FIRST UK SHOWINGS IN SUPPORT OF INTERNATIONAL ARMS CAMPAIGN

SPUN and SHOTTAS have their first UK showings in October as part of DJ Saved MY Life – a series of nights from AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL and the ICA to highlight their International Arms Campaign.

The impressive movie programme includes an exclusive preview screening of the speed-freak story SPUN, the first feature film from video wunderkind JONAS AKERLUND whose controversial contributions to the art form have included The Prodigy’s “Smack My Bitch Up”, Madonna’s “Ray of Light”/ “American Life” and Robbie Williams’ “Come Undone”.

Also featured is a re-mastered version of FRITZ LANG’s ground-breaking METROPOLIS, LARS VON TRIER’s DANCER IN THE DARK, the Jamaican guns and gangster film SHOTTAS (starring Wyclef Jean, Ky Mani Marley, and Lennox Lewis) and – from Brazil - CIDADE DE DEUS (CITY OF GOD) (same subject, different nation). It’s backed by NOTICIAS DE UNA GUERRA PARTICULAR (NEWS OF A PRIVATE WAR) a documentary that tells the real story of the ghetto-dwellers that inspired CITY OF GOD, co-directed by the film’s director Katia Lund.

The movies play a part in a series of nights at the ICA, that have been curated by JO WHILEY, ZANE LOWE, THE DREEM TEEM, TONY WILSON and VERITY SHARP & FIONA TALKINGTON: all under the umbrella of DJ SAVED MY LIFE.

In addition to this line-up of movies, DJ SAVED MY LIFE also features talks, discussions and major musical acts including THE THRILLS, HUNDRED REASONS, BILLY BRAGG, THE MUSIC and BIG BROVAZ.

DJ SAVED MY LIFE has been conceived to raise funds and awareness for THE INTERNATIONAL ARMS CONTROLS campaign.

AMNESTY is always finding new ways to communicate fundamental human rights messages. Entertainers have played a key, and very active role in promoting AMNESTY causes over the years. DJ SAVED MY LIFE marks a continuation of a great tradition.

Those who were at the first Secret Policeman’s Ball are now a privileged elite: DJ SAVED MY LIFE is a historic event that will open up a new front for AMNESTY as it recruits the next generation of newly-radicalised support.

www.amnesty.org.uk/dj







Christmas season set to become a DVD Blockbuster

With DVD technology becoming increasingly widespread across Europe (26.4% of Western European households own at least one DVD player, and a growing catalogue of movies and music videos to choose from, more and more families are getting hooked on DVD. This Christmas DVDs are expected to top the whole family’s wish list and Santa’s sack will be bursting with blockbuster titles and a growing variety of reasonably priced DVD players.

As the industry trade association in Europe, the DVD Entertainment Group Europe has compiled the top titles for festive gifts in 2003. By the end of the year more than 1 in 3 Western European homes (38.5%) are expected to have at least one DVD player, up from a fifth of households (20.4%) that did so last year. Christmas is a key point in the sales calendar as, typically, more than a third of DVD titles are sold in the last 12 weeks of the year. As such many families will be gathering round the DVD player this Christmas to watch their children’s favourites as well as the best-loved timeless classics.

Underworld is Game
Major movie licence deal announcement

Interactive entertainment industry pioneer Play It announced today the unveiling of an amazing movie licence deal that is sure to take a significant bite out of the interactive entertainment industry's Sony PlayStation®2 market. Due to hit cinemas across the UK on September 19th 2003, 'Underworld'', starring Kate Beckinsale and Scott Speedman, is a dark, sophisticated action movie of blood battles between the mysterious and powerful forces of warrior vampires and werewolves. The PlayStation2 game is due to hit UK stores in the weeks surrounding the movie launch.

Mark Cale, president of Play It said: "With strong action sequences, a thrilling storyline and charismatic characters, 'Underworld'' the game, is destined to cause a bloodbath at retail as consumers fight to be the first to play. We are delighted with this prestigious licence acquisition."

Game features:

'Underworld' the game - to be released by Play It (www.justplayit.com) is a 3rd person action shooter set in a 3D rendered environment featuring: Hand to hand combat, ranged weapons, Vampire abilities and Werewolf powers to master, action packed missions and fighting above and below the gothic cityscape.

Movie release 19th September 2003 www.entertheunderworld.com

Thursday, September 18, 2003

The Times bfi London Film Festival

22 October to 6 November 2003

"The only important showcase for International Cinema in Britain" Barry Norman

"The most anticipated fortnight in the London filmgoers' year" Neil Norman, Evening Standard

"It's the Joan Bakewell of cinema, the thinking fan's crumpet." James Christopher, The Times

In 2002, the Festival attracted 110,000 public admissions, together with 600 film industry delegates and 580 national and international press and media. Now entering its 47th year, The Times bfi London Film Festival promises to surpass the record-breaking success and acclaim enjoyed in previous years. With more than 300 films from over 45 countries, the Festival presents the very best of new film from the entire spectrum of world cinema.

In addition to an impressive roster of film premieres, many of which are introduced by the film's director, producer or stars, the extensive schedule of Festival activities include prestigious Opening and Closing Night Galas, industry and public forums, education events, lectures and celebrity interviews.

For online information go to:

http://www.lff.org.uk
Script Released

Prelude2Cinema is releasing the original script "The Darkest Night in Heaven" by Emmy winning writer Alex P. Michaels. The story is about a detective who places his sanity and his teenage daughter's life in jeopardy when he baby-sits a wealthy business man's whorish teenage daughter.

To pick up a copy, go to
http://www.cafeshops.com/prelude2cinema.7619351

The opening scene from the book can be read at
http://www.prelude2cinema.com/Alex_Michaels_Home_Site/APM-Scripts-Sides/DNiH-scenes.htm

Tuesday, September 16, 2003

£6 MILLION BOOST FOR FILM AND TV MAKERS IN CAPITAL OF CULTURE

Britain’s new ‘Capital of Culture 2008’ is celebrating again after securing six million pounds to develop and strengthen the vibrant and thriving Film, TV and Media Industry in Merseyside.

Liverpool, the Hollywood of the North, has been given the massive cash injection from the Merseyside Objective One programme. North West Vision, the TV, Film and Moving image agency for England’s Northwest successfully bid for the money and will use it to develop and encourage new talent and build strong businesses in Merseyside.

Liverpool is already recognised as the most film friendly city in the UK and is currently doubling up as New York for the remake of the film ‘Alfie’ starring Jude Law. The money will ensure that the local industry is developed to reinforce and build on the already strong reputation.

North West Vision will create two hundred and seventeen jobs as a result of investing in local companies and innovative TV programmes and films. The funding will also be used to encourage strong partnerships and co-production whilst working with local industry broadcasters, new and existing companies and new talent.

Steve Morrison, Chair of North West Vision, Former Chief Executive of Granada PLC, and new owner of Chrysalis TV, said:

“TV and Film industries are built on creativity but they need the money to grow. North West Vision the studio for new talent, has now got a fantastic opportunity to invest in ground breaking new projects and provide opportunities for local people”.

The main aims of the Merseyside Film and TV programme are:

To invest in the production of major local and co-produced TV, feature films, drama, entertainment and documentary in Merseyside to grow a sustainable Film and TV industry and create jobs.

To work with the Liverpool Film Office, to develop the crew, facilities and filming infrastructure in Merseyside.

To assist local companies in the script and development stage.

To attract production companies into Merseyside to work with indigenous production companies and to use the crew and facilities of the region and realise the additional spend in the local economy.

To develop the talent through short film, and regional TV programming.

To use the return on funds to reinvest in, and continue, the project in the same way.

Sue Woodward, Creative Director of Capital of Culture, said:

"This is a valuable boost to the film industry on Merseyside and will help encourage and develop the creative talent that already exists here. We now have a real chance to strengthen what we have at the moment and help grow the film and television sector, creating jobs and putting the city firmly on the movie making map."

Funding for the initiative is also being invested by the UK Film Council (£497,000), Liverpool City Council (£290,000), Granada TV (£270,000), North West Vision (£63,000) and the private Sector (£2,550,000).

Monday, September 15, 2003

Shooting People In New York

Shooting People is for the independent filmmaking community and is coming to New York this September. New York filmmakers can sign up now (free) at:

http://ny.shootingpeople.org

Shooting People has been running in Britain for 5 years and been a massive word-of-mouth success with over 26,000 members and over 250 new members joining each and every week. They join to connect with other filmmakers, crew up, debate latest innovations, swap stuff, offer tips, form creative partnerships - all collated and sent out in a daily email.

Set up by and for filmmakers, Shooting People is for directors, producers, actors, writers, cinematographers, DV operators, animators, documentary makers, crew, editors, composers, festival organisers etc. Essentially it is for anyone who is working in independent filmmaking in New York.

Shooting People will also connect its communities in New York and Britain, allowing the members of each to read and post to the other’s email bulletins in order to open up links, co-productions, advice and other collaboration between filmmakers on both sides of the Atlantic.
SLIDE SHOW HOUSE

See where the first public film show was put on by the Lumière brothers, when the University opens its doors for London Open House on Sunday 21 September, 2003.

The film show took place on 20 February 1896 at Regent Street Polytechnic, now part of the university. Brothers Auguste and Louis Lumiere demonstrated their cinematograph, the first successful machine that could show moving photographs to an audience, which they had invented the previous year.

You will also be able to see the site of one of England's earliest public swimming baths - now an impressive social space called the Deep End, with original ironwork and tiling - as well as one of London's oldest revolving doors.

Tours of the building, which take about 50 minutes, are held at 2pm and 3.30pm. There is also an exhibition and a slide show.

This event is part of London Open House weekend on 20 and 21 September, which provides free public access to hundreds of buildings of architectural and community interest in London. See www.londonopenhouse.org.

To book a place, please contact Hilary Robinson on 020 7911 5101 (mornings only, or leave a message), email: MDAdmin@wmin.ac.uk.

If you go Talking Pictures would welcome a report on your visit, email us at valis23a@aol.com.

Monday, September 08, 2003

North West Goes Hollywood For Alfie

British heartthrob Jude Law is currently in the Northwest filming a remake of Alfie, the hit film that originally starred Michael Caine.

The team of dedicated staff at the Manchester and Liverpool Film Offices have been working extremely hard to find the Hollywood Film makers first class filming locations in the North West that could double up as New York and they have succeeded!

Fantastic teams of set designers have now transformed the back streets of Manchester and Liverpool to resemble present day New York.

Filming on the Manchester set, which is located in the Northern Quarter, starts tomorrow and the designers are running around putting the last minute touches to the set.

Alice Morrsion, Chief Executive for North West Vision, the Regional Screen Agency that runs the Film Offices, said:

“This is a great boost for the North West. The filming will not only increase the profile of the region but it will also create jobs for local people and investment in the local economy. I am proud of the extremely professional way that the Manchester and Liverpool Film Offices have worked with the local City Councils and the Film Company to co-ordinate the filming”.

The Hollywood production team are estimated to spend over £1.5million in the region during their six days of filming here, with the majority of money being spent on accommodation, transport and food.