I Tunes global jukebox goes visual with short movies
Global online personal jukebox Apple I Tunes begins its pioneering USA pilot project in short movie downloads with Sheffield Hallam University UK directed Point Annihilation.
Point Annihilation –‘ Surf, Sex and Tattoos’ – a coming of age story about a young New Zealand surfer, is one of only fifteen films chosen by I Tunes from thousands of potential movies. The thirty-minute narrative explores the surfer’s embracing of traditional Maori myth and culture. It is a collaboration between writer/director Virginia Health and editor Steve Sprung, both tutors from Sheffield Hallam University’s Northern Media School, and Weta Digital and Park Road Post (aka The Film Unit) - companies owned by internationally renowned Lord of the Rings director Peter Jackson.
Virginia Heath, director of Point Annihilation and senior academic at Sheffield Hallam said: “Point Annihilation was selected from heavy competition to be one of the first short films downloadable on I Tunes. I’m very proud as only two movies have been chosen from the UK to help pilot this project.
“The massive support and sponsorship by Peter Jackson’s companies gave me access to the highest quality technical expertise and creative talent in post production which helped give the film a highly polished finish. It was fantastic to see the film screened at the Cannes Film Festival in 2005. However, without the support of Shorts International, the film’s distributor, and their passion for promoting short films as quality content, we wouldn’t have made it to I Tunes.
“I’m excited that people around the world will be able to view this rites of passage story, set in New Zealand, exploring a dynamic encounter between European and Maori culture and beliefs.”
Point Annihilation is a story about a young surfer’s passion for a Maori woman tattooist, rumoured to be the sea goddess of death, who takes him on a dangerous, erotic journey of initiation into life through surf, sex and ritual Maori tattoo.
The movie is currently only available for download in the USA as I Tunes begin their pilot project, however is expected to roll out in Europe in the near future.
Sheffield Hallam University has helped inspire many other blockbuster cinema movies, including most recently top ten thriller Hard Candy. Hard Candy took more than two million pounds in its first two weeks and was directed by graduate David Slade.
In the USA you can download Point Annihilation from I Tunes Music store under short films. The trailer can be viewed around the world at www.myspace.com/85875193 - it is number two of three.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Thursday, July 27, 2006
REDEMPTION FILMS TO LAUNCH BROADBAND CHANNELS
Nigel Wingrove’s Redemption Films is set to expand with the launch of six subscription online broadband-on-demand tv channels.
Salvation TV, launched this month (July) showcases Redemption Films’ unique catalogue of gothic, horror, sleaze and vampire films. The website address is www.salvationtv.com. Movies on the channel include Sacred Flash, Black Magic Rites & the secret orgies of the 14th Century, I am the Ripper, Nude for Satan, Les Demoniaques and Requiem for a Vampire.
The second channel Nihilista TV will launch on August 14th, and will feature extreme and underground culture, with concerts, interviews, music and filmed inserts. An eponymous sister free sheet to the channel will also launch in August, distributed through clubs, bars and shops.
The channels will each have their own website and will feature nine hours of non repeat material including films, news, and incidental material daily. The programme schedules will be updated regularly each month. Subscription to each channel will be £10 per month.
Commenting on the new venture Wingrove says: “We are entering a very exciting phase of Redemption Film’s history. The channels now give us a chance to showcase our unique output globally.”
Redemption Films is working with start up channel expert Stephen McCreath and Atlantic Television, internet broadcasters using a new and unique multicast broadband system.
The new system allows television to be broadcast over the internet in a one-to-many mode (multicast) as opposed to the traditional need to create a unique stream for each view one-to-one (unicast). With this multicast system, a single TV feed is taken from a playout, recoded into the multicast format and distributed to ISP’s over existing infrastructure so that tens of thousands of internet viewers can receive the same broadcast at the same time. Buffering is eliminated using broadcasting at 400kbits per second. With a 1Mb broadband connection, a full screen service is provided using Window Media 9 Software.
The channels will be cross promoted via Wingrove’s other business ventures on the Redemption website and through is DVD and CD releases in the UK and US where they are distributed by Image Entertainment.
Salvation TV, launched this month (July) showcases Redemption Films’ unique catalogue of gothic, horror, sleaze and vampire films. The website address is www.salvationtv.com. Movies on the channel include Sacred Flash, Black Magic Rites & the secret orgies of the 14th Century, I am the Ripper, Nude for Satan, Les Demoniaques and Requiem for a Vampire.
The second channel Nihilista TV will launch on August 14th, and will feature extreme and underground culture, with concerts, interviews, music and filmed inserts. An eponymous sister free sheet to the channel will also launch in August, distributed through clubs, bars and shops.
The channels will each have their own website and will feature nine hours of non repeat material including films, news, and incidental material daily. The programme schedules will be updated regularly each month. Subscription to each channel will be £10 per month.
Commenting on the new venture Wingrove says: “We are entering a very exciting phase of Redemption Film’s history. The channels now give us a chance to showcase our unique output globally.”
Redemption Films is working with start up channel expert Stephen McCreath and Atlantic Television, internet broadcasters using a new and unique multicast broadband system.
The new system allows television to be broadcast over the internet in a one-to-many mode (multicast) as opposed to the traditional need to create a unique stream for each view one-to-one (unicast). With this multicast system, a single TV feed is taken from a playout, recoded into the multicast format and distributed to ISP’s over existing infrastructure so that tens of thousands of internet viewers can receive the same broadcast at the same time. Buffering is eliminated using broadcasting at 400kbits per second. With a 1Mb broadband connection, a full screen service is provided using Window Media 9 Software.
The channels will be cross promoted via Wingrove’s other business ventures on the Redemption website and through is DVD and CD releases in the UK and US where they are distributed by Image Entertainment.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
MILANO FILM FESTIVAL 2006
Eleventh edition
15-24 September 2006
Piccolo Teatro
"A new start, towards something different, unexplored, unexpected. A festival for people that don't have any preconceptions, that are eager to be surprised."
Eleventh edition
The submission deadline has passed, the selection is in progress. A thorough search through film schools, producers, distributors and independent festivals resulted in the submission of more than 2000 films from more than 90 countries: from Mexico to Palestine, from South Africa to Finland, from India to Chiapas.
The eleventh edition is a chance to start anew: the Festival will be a meeting point for film lovers, for not-festival-goers, for children, for music enthusiasts, for professionals, for students, for people that believe that films can portray important aspects of the world.
At the eve of a new decade, Milano Film Festival focuses its attention and energies on its various parts that are blended together to create a unique all-round event.
The Festival
For eleven years Milano Film Festival has attracted films and filmmakers from all over the world. It is independent - from the interests of major distributors, from institutional politics, from money, from fashion, from critics. But it is also dependent - on the filmmakers' creativity and talent, on the expertise, the experience and the skills of the people that organize it, on the work and commitment of hundreds of volunteers, on the curiosity and willingness to take risks of the selection committee. This Festival scouted and promoted emerging talents, for whom the Festival has often been a springboard to international success. For ten days, this festival transforms places and people that pass through them.
Overview of the 2005 edition:
* 85,000 visitors
* 80 journalists with accreditation card
* 1,200 film professionals involved in the Borsa Democratica del Cinema
* 495 films screened
* 130 filmmakers attending the festival
* 250 international guests - directors, producers, actors and film enthusiasts
First information on the competitions and out-of-competition sections
Short film competition and Feature film competition
The competitions are open to short and feature films of any genre and running time, on any format and in any language, provided that they were produced after January 1st, 2005. They won't be divided into sections and will be screened in their original language with English and Italian subtitles. Filmmakers are invited to present their films to the festival audience.
Colpe di Stato
A collection of documentaries that depict crimes, injustice and slaughters under the banner of freedom, security and religion. These screenings mark an interesting but disturbing journey around the world.
Histoire(s) du cinéma - Cinema according to Jean-Luc Godard
Through the quotes scattered in the Histoire(s) du cinéma, a video by Jean-Luc Godard in which the filmmaker traces the history of filmmaking, this season aims to show this entire work for the first time in Milan and to highlight different central films from which this flow of images moves.
In collaboration with Fondazione Cineteca Italiana - Spazio Oberdan.
motion&picture against poverty
The UN campaign for the 8 Millennium Development Goals relies on alternative means of communication, including films.
The motion&picture against poverty section, which is currently under construction, was first launched during the festival's 2005 edition to create a film season dedicated to human rights and to different issues linked with the development goals. This section is particularly focused on countries that produce films despite economic, political and social hindrances.
Incontri italiani
This section features young Italian filmmakers, screenings and meetings to help directors get together, exchange ideas and projects and create new collaborations.
Focus animazione
A search through different styles, traditional techniques and cutting-edge technologies.
Salon des refusés
A section managed by non-selected directors - democratic, open to all the films submitted to the festival.
Borsa Democratica del Cinema
After the success of the first edition and the positive feedback from exhibitors, professionals and visitors, the 2nd edition of the Borsa Democratica del Cinema will run from 21st to 24th September at the Fondazione Antonio Mazzotta.
Directors, screenwriters, actors and set designers, producers and distributors, film schools, institutions and young independent filmmakers will gather to present ideas and projects and analyse the current situation of the film industry. The aim is to perform a change by creating new cultural, professional and business relationships.
For further information: expo@milanofilmfestival.it.
Holiday project - Filmmakers' House
The Filmmakers' House is a project developed to offer alternative hospitality to filmmakers, professionals and film lovers that will attend the festival in Milan - a facility set up as a solution to the lack of low-cost accommodation in Milan, to become a meeting point and a common area.
For further information: holidays@milanofilmfestival.it.
Accreditation and discounts
Milano Film Festival has launched an accreditation campaign that offers discounts to different typologies of applicants: students, film professionals, journalists, people aged over 65.
For further information: info@milanofilmfestival.it.
Festival organization
Milano Film Festival is organized by esterni - an association of young people that have organized cultural events for eleven years. Through public spaces such as squares, tunnels, parks, disused factories and building sites, esterni boosts culture and social interaction.
Main aim of the association is the implementation of the cultural role of public spaces by means of big events such as Milano Film Festival, the Sciopero Nazionale dei Telespettatori (National TV Viewers' Strike) and the Salone dell'Arredo Urbano (Street Furniture Fair).
For further information on esterni and its events: media@esterni.org, www.esterni.org
15-24 September 2006
Piccolo Teatro
"A new start, towards something different, unexplored, unexpected. A festival for people that don't have any preconceptions, that are eager to be surprised."
Eleventh edition
The submission deadline has passed, the selection is in progress. A thorough search through film schools, producers, distributors and independent festivals resulted in the submission of more than 2000 films from more than 90 countries: from Mexico to Palestine, from South Africa to Finland, from India to Chiapas.
The eleventh edition is a chance to start anew: the Festival will be a meeting point for film lovers, for not-festival-goers, for children, for music enthusiasts, for professionals, for students, for people that believe that films can portray important aspects of the world.
At the eve of a new decade, Milano Film Festival focuses its attention and energies on its various parts that are blended together to create a unique all-round event.
The Festival
For eleven years Milano Film Festival has attracted films and filmmakers from all over the world. It is independent - from the interests of major distributors, from institutional politics, from money, from fashion, from critics. But it is also dependent - on the filmmakers' creativity and talent, on the expertise, the experience and the skills of the people that organize it, on the work and commitment of hundreds of volunteers, on the curiosity and willingness to take risks of the selection committee. This Festival scouted and promoted emerging talents, for whom the Festival has often been a springboard to international success. For ten days, this festival transforms places and people that pass through them.
Overview of the 2005 edition:
* 85,000 visitors
* 80 journalists with accreditation card
* 1,200 film professionals involved in the Borsa Democratica del Cinema
* 495 films screened
* 130 filmmakers attending the festival
* 250 international guests - directors, producers, actors and film enthusiasts
First information on the competitions and out-of-competition sections
Short film competition and Feature film competition
The competitions are open to short and feature films of any genre and running time, on any format and in any language, provided that they were produced after January 1st, 2005. They won't be divided into sections and will be screened in their original language with English and Italian subtitles. Filmmakers are invited to present their films to the festival audience.
Colpe di Stato
A collection of documentaries that depict crimes, injustice and slaughters under the banner of freedom, security and religion. These screenings mark an interesting but disturbing journey around the world.
Histoire(s) du cinéma - Cinema according to Jean-Luc Godard
Through the quotes scattered in the Histoire(s) du cinéma, a video by Jean-Luc Godard in which the filmmaker traces the history of filmmaking, this season aims to show this entire work for the first time in Milan and to highlight different central films from which this flow of images moves.
In collaboration with Fondazione Cineteca Italiana - Spazio Oberdan.
motion&picture against poverty
The UN campaign for the 8 Millennium Development Goals relies on alternative means of communication, including films.
The motion&picture against poverty section, which is currently under construction, was first launched during the festival's 2005 edition to create a film season dedicated to human rights and to different issues linked with the development goals. This section is particularly focused on countries that produce films despite economic, political and social hindrances.
Incontri italiani
This section features young Italian filmmakers, screenings and meetings to help directors get together, exchange ideas and projects and create new collaborations.
Focus animazione
A search through different styles, traditional techniques and cutting-edge technologies.
Salon des refusés
A section managed by non-selected directors - democratic, open to all the films submitted to the festival.
Borsa Democratica del Cinema
After the success of the first edition and the positive feedback from exhibitors, professionals and visitors, the 2nd edition of the Borsa Democratica del Cinema will run from 21st to 24th September at the Fondazione Antonio Mazzotta.
Directors, screenwriters, actors and set designers, producers and distributors, film schools, institutions and young independent filmmakers will gather to present ideas and projects and analyse the current situation of the film industry. The aim is to perform a change by creating new cultural, professional and business relationships.
For further information: expo@milanofilmfestival.it.
Holiday project - Filmmakers' House
The Filmmakers' House is a project developed to offer alternative hospitality to filmmakers, professionals and film lovers that will attend the festival in Milan - a facility set up as a solution to the lack of low-cost accommodation in Milan, to become a meeting point and a common area.
For further information: holidays@milanofilmfestival.it.
Accreditation and discounts
Milano Film Festival has launched an accreditation campaign that offers discounts to different typologies of applicants: students, film professionals, journalists, people aged over 65.
For further information: info@milanofilmfestival.it.
Festival organization
Milano Film Festival is organized by esterni - an association of young people that have organized cultural events for eleven years. Through public spaces such as squares, tunnels, parks, disused factories and building sites, esterni boosts culture and social interaction.
Main aim of the association is the implementation of the cultural role of public spaces by means of big events such as Milano Film Festival, the Sciopero Nazionale dei Telespettatori (National TV Viewers' Strike) and the Salone dell'Arredo Urbano (Street Furniture Fair).
For further information on esterni and its events: media@esterni.org, www.esterni.org
Chichester Film Festival
The Seaward 15th Chichester Film Festival will continue its commitment to showing the best new and yet-to-be-released films from around the world. The Festival’s Opening Gala is Pedro Almodovar’s Volver starring Penelope Cruz, and the Closing Gala will be Jeremy Brock’s Driving Lessons starring Julie Walters, Laura Linney and Rupert Grint.
Alongside the many premieres, previews and treasures from the archives we will be hosting retrospectives
John Miller, Dame Judi Dench’s biographer, will be giving a talk to launch this season on Thursday 24 August.
The season includes: Mrs Brown, Chocolat, The Shipping News, Iris, Shakespeare in Love, Ladies in Lavender, The Cherry Orchard (2 versions), Macbeth,
Ghosts, Last of the Blonde Bombshells, A Fine Romance and Saigon, Year of the Cat.
The Seaward 15
The published programme will be available out at the end of July and on
the website www.chichetercinema.org
16 Days – 70 Films – One Cinema
Over 35 Premieres and Previews
ADRIFT (US/Germany) Hans Horn
ANTIBODIES (Germany) Christian Alvet
ATOMISED (Germany) Oskar Roehler
DARK HORSE (Denmark) D. Kári
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (USA) D. Frankel
DRIVING LESSONS (UK) J. Brock
EROS (China/USA/Italy) W. Kar-Wai / S. Soderbergh / M. Antonioni
50 WAYS OF SAYING FABULOUS (New Zealand) S. Main
THE GREAT ECSTASY OF ROBERT CARMICHAEL (UK) T. Clay
HALF LIFE: Journey to Chernobyl (UK) P. Grabsky
HAPPY ENDINGS (USA) Don Ross
HOTEL HARABATI (France) B. Vauvin
INNOCENT VOICES (Mexico) L. Mandoki
INTO GREAT SILENCE (Germany) P. Groening
THE JOURNEY (India) J. Pullappally
KEANE (USA) LH. Kerrigan
KEKEXILI: MOUNTAIN PATROL (China) L. Chuan
KRISANA (Fallen) (Germany / Latvia) F. Keleman
LADY IN THE WATER (USA) M. Night Shyamalan
MAN PUSH CART (USA) R. Bahrani
MARIO’S WAR (Italy) A. Capuano
MASJÄVLAR (Sweden) M. Blom
MÜETTER (Alsace / Germany) D. Lienhard
PLAY (Chile) A. Scherson
QUINCEAÑERA (USA) W. Westmoreland
A SCANNER DARKLY (USA) R. Linklater
SHANGHAI DREAMS (China) W. Xiaoshuai
SHUT UP! (France) F. Verbel
SNOWCAKE (UK / Canada) M. Evans
TEXAS (Italy) F. Paravidino
TO DIE IN SAN HILARIO (Spain) L. Mana
TOWARDS SUNSET (Iran) I. Emami
TWELVE AND HOLDING (USA) M. Cuesta
UNVEILED (Germany) A. Maccarone
VOLVER (Spain) P. Almodovar
THE WEST WITTERING AFFAIR (UK) D. Scheinmann
Alongside the many premieres, previews and treasures from the archives we will be hosting retrospectives
John Miller, Dame Judi Dench’s biographer, will be giving a talk to launch this season on Thursday 24 August.
The season includes: Mrs Brown, Chocolat, The Shipping News, Iris, Shakespeare in Love, Ladies in Lavender, The Cherry Orchard (2 versions), Macbeth,
Ghosts, Last of the Blonde Bombshells, A Fine Romance and Saigon, Year of the Cat.
The Seaward 15
The published programme will be available out at the end of July and on
the website www.chichetercinema.org
16 Days – 70 Films – One Cinema
Over 35 Premieres and Previews
ADRIFT (US/Germany) Hans Horn
ANTIBODIES (Germany) Christian Alvet
ATOMISED (Germany) Oskar Roehler
DARK HORSE (Denmark) D. Kári
THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA (USA) D. Frankel
DRIVING LESSONS (UK) J. Brock
EROS (China/USA/Italy) W. Kar-Wai / S. Soderbergh / M. Antonioni
50 WAYS OF SAYING FABULOUS (New Zealand) S. Main
THE GREAT ECSTASY OF ROBERT CARMICHAEL (UK) T. Clay
HALF LIFE: Journey to Chernobyl (UK) P. Grabsky
HAPPY ENDINGS (USA) Don Ross
HOTEL HARABATI (France) B. Vauvin
INNOCENT VOICES (Mexico) L. Mandoki
INTO GREAT SILENCE (Germany) P. Groening
THE JOURNEY (India) J. Pullappally
KEANE (USA) LH. Kerrigan
KEKEXILI: MOUNTAIN PATROL (China) L. Chuan
KRISANA (Fallen) (Germany / Latvia) F. Keleman
LADY IN THE WATER (USA) M. Night Shyamalan
MAN PUSH CART (USA) R. Bahrani
MARIO’S WAR (Italy) A. Capuano
MASJÄVLAR (Sweden) M. Blom
MÜETTER (Alsace / Germany) D. Lienhard
PLAY (Chile) A. Scherson
QUINCEAÑERA (USA) W. Westmoreland
A SCANNER DARKLY (USA) R. Linklater
SHANGHAI DREAMS (China) W. Xiaoshuai
SHUT UP! (France) F. Verbel
SNOWCAKE (UK / Canada) M. Evans
TEXAS (Italy) F. Paravidino
TO DIE IN SAN HILARIO (Spain) L. Mana
TOWARDS SUNSET (Iran) I. Emami
TWELVE AND HOLDING (USA) M. Cuesta
UNVEILED (Germany) A. Maccarone
VOLVER (Spain) P. Almodovar
THE WEST WITTERING AFFAIR (UK) D. Scheinmann
FINAL CUT DVD
With its high-profile celebrity stars, improvised storyline and edgy ‘mock-doc’ style, Final Cut, the dark drama from the creative team behind The Krays, is one of the most bizarre and distinctive British films of the late ‘90s. It will be released on DVD courtesy of Infinity on 25 September 2006.
Made in 1998, Final Cut stars two of the most successful British actors working in
movies today: Oscar nominee Jude Law (Alfie, The Talented Mr Ripley, Cold
Mountain) and Ray Winstone (Sexy Beast, King Arthur, The Proposition). It also
features Law’s ex-wife, actress and fashion entrepreneur Sadie Frost (Shopping,
Coppola’s Dracula).
In Final Cut, the cast play characters named after themselves and the action takes
place at the funeral wake of successful writer Jude – played by Jude Law - as the
mourners gather to watch a film he’d been secretly working on for the past two years.
What they see is shocking: Jude has been filming his so-called friends’ most intimate
and depraved behaviour: stealing from each other, abusing their spouses, sleeping
with hookers, cross-dressing and worse. Husbands turn against wives and friends
against friends as the true nature of their lives and relationships is revealed. But
Jude’s biggest revelation is yet to come.
Final Cut is devised, directed and produced by Dominic Anciano and Ray Burdis,
the creative team behind such films as The Krays, Love, Honour & Obey, The
Reflecting Skin and the TV series Operation Good Guys. It was nominated for a
Golden Hitchcock award at the 1999 Dinard British Film Festival.
Extras include: Director’s Commentary, cast interviews.
Title: Final Cut Release Date: 25 September 2006 RRP: £15.99
‘this mischievous little jape…exerts a certain
fascination’
Time Out
Made in 1998, Final Cut stars two of the most successful British actors working in
movies today: Oscar nominee Jude Law (Alfie, The Talented Mr Ripley, Cold
Mountain) and Ray Winstone (Sexy Beast, King Arthur, The Proposition). It also
features Law’s ex-wife, actress and fashion entrepreneur Sadie Frost (Shopping,
Coppola’s Dracula).
In Final Cut, the cast play characters named after themselves and the action takes
place at the funeral wake of successful writer Jude – played by Jude Law - as the
mourners gather to watch a film he’d been secretly working on for the past two years.
What they see is shocking: Jude has been filming his so-called friends’ most intimate
and depraved behaviour: stealing from each other, abusing their spouses, sleeping
with hookers, cross-dressing and worse. Husbands turn against wives and friends
against friends as the true nature of their lives and relationships is revealed. But
Jude’s biggest revelation is yet to come.
Final Cut is devised, directed and produced by Dominic Anciano and Ray Burdis,
the creative team behind such films as The Krays, Love, Honour & Obey, The
Reflecting Skin and the TV series Operation Good Guys. It was nominated for a
Golden Hitchcock award at the 1999 Dinard British Film Festival.
Extras include: Director’s Commentary, cast interviews.
Title: Final Cut Release Date: 25 September 2006 RRP: £15.99
‘this mischievous little jape…exerts a certain
fascination’
Time Out
A FUNNY BUSINESS
An in depth look at the day to day life of The Comedy Club
10.30pm - Thursday, 3rd August 2006 on BBC3
Every year with the approach of August, virtually everyone’s thoughts turn to The Edinburgh Festival. It is the time of year when Comedy steps into the limelight and takes over the stage. When comedians from around the world put on shows in the hope of fame and fortune and that ever elusive Television deal. But what goes on behind the scenes? Who are the people responsible for giving the Comedians that first boost up the ladder of success?
It is no coincidence that A Funny Business has been programmed for transmission for Thursday, 3rd August, the start of The Edinburgh Festival Fringe…
Commissioned by Ben Gale at BBC3, and Produced by Award-winning Dai4 Films, A Funny Business is a ‘fly on the wall’ documentary that looks at the sometimes chaotic, sometimes confrontational – but never dull - day to day management of one of the UK’s leading entertainment businesses. This one-hour documentary is a unique opportunity to see for the first time what it really takes to stay afloat in one of the world’s most cutthroat and fickle industries.
Without a good management team behind them, Comedians will often vanish from the Comedy Circuit within months of their first appearance - passed over by a public who are always searching for the next new laugh. As the programme unfolds it becomes obvious that there is much more to comedy than just a good punch line. With bookings across the UK and abroad, The Comedy Club manage their clients’ diaries and make sure, with very few exceptions, that they are in the right place at the right time, whether that involves entertaining the passengers of a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean, launching a new comedy club in Prague or just making the punters laugh at one of the many comedy venues around the country. For The Comedy Club owner, Ian Franklin – a former entertainer himself – running the Company has become a way of life far more than just a nine to five job. With a great team behind him, Ian works constantly for the betterment of his clients, realising that their livelihoods are his responsibility. But when things go wrong they can go disastrously wrong and that’s when his skills as a diplomat and problem solver become indispensable.
This year The Comedy Club celebrates a decade as one of the leading lights of the Comedy Industry. No mean feat in an industry where companies and performers appear and disappear with the speed of a magician’s rabbit. Dai4 Films shadowed Ian, his staff and his clients for four months in order to achieve as realistic a view as possible of the energy and drive that Ian and everyone involved in Company invest in bringing tears of laughter to the eyes of audiences everywhere.
A FUNNY BUSINESS IS TRANSMITTED AS PART OF BBC3’S DOCUMENTARY SERIES WELCOME TO OUR WORLD.
www.hahaheehee.com
10.30pm - Thursday, 3rd August 2006 on BBC3
Every year with the approach of August, virtually everyone’s thoughts turn to The Edinburgh Festival. It is the time of year when Comedy steps into the limelight and takes over the stage. When comedians from around the world put on shows in the hope of fame and fortune and that ever elusive Television deal. But what goes on behind the scenes? Who are the people responsible for giving the Comedians that first boost up the ladder of success?
It is no coincidence that A Funny Business has been programmed for transmission for Thursday, 3rd August, the start of The Edinburgh Festival Fringe…
Commissioned by Ben Gale at BBC3, and Produced by Award-winning Dai4 Films, A Funny Business is a ‘fly on the wall’ documentary that looks at the sometimes chaotic, sometimes confrontational – but never dull - day to day management of one of the UK’s leading entertainment businesses. This one-hour documentary is a unique opportunity to see for the first time what it really takes to stay afloat in one of the world’s most cutthroat and fickle industries.
Without a good management team behind them, Comedians will often vanish from the Comedy Circuit within months of their first appearance - passed over by a public who are always searching for the next new laugh. As the programme unfolds it becomes obvious that there is much more to comedy than just a good punch line. With bookings across the UK and abroad, The Comedy Club manage their clients’ diaries and make sure, with very few exceptions, that they are in the right place at the right time, whether that involves entertaining the passengers of a cruise ship in the middle of the ocean, launching a new comedy club in Prague or just making the punters laugh at one of the many comedy venues around the country. For The Comedy Club owner, Ian Franklin – a former entertainer himself – running the Company has become a way of life far more than just a nine to five job. With a great team behind him, Ian works constantly for the betterment of his clients, realising that their livelihoods are his responsibility. But when things go wrong they can go disastrously wrong and that’s when his skills as a diplomat and problem solver become indispensable.
This year The Comedy Club celebrates a decade as one of the leading lights of the Comedy Industry. No mean feat in an industry where companies and performers appear and disappear with the speed of a magician’s rabbit. Dai4 Films shadowed Ian, his staff and his clients for four months in order to achieve as realistic a view as possible of the energy and drive that Ian and everyone involved in Company invest in bringing tears of laughter to the eyes of audiences everywhere.
A FUNNY BUSINESS IS TRANSMITTED AS PART OF BBC3’S DOCUMENTARY SERIES WELCOME TO OUR WORLD.
www.hahaheehee.com
BBC New Music Shorts
A new filmmaking initiative from the BBC
21 July 2006. A new filmmaking initiative called BBC New Music Shorts was launched today. BBC Electric Proms, BBC Film Network and BBC New Talent are offering a challenge to new filmmakers to develop original and creative ideas around music filmmaking as part of the programme for this Autumn?s BBC Electric Proms festival.
The BBC enjoys unparalleled links with new film talent, and has partnered with the UK?s leading independent record labels - Warp Records, Ninja Tune, Domino and 679 Recordings - who have provided six tracks from their latest releases to offer filmmakers the chance to make films inspired by them. From 17 July, budding filmmakers are invited to log on to www.bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork and submit innovative ideas for new music shorts.
The BBC New Music Shorts team will commission the best and provide a budget of up to £5,000 to fund production of each short. Each piece will be produced by Warp Films and the films will be premiered at the forthcoming BBC Electric Proms festival and online at Film Network, the BBC?s interactive showcase for new British filmmakers.
BBC Electric Proms is taking place at the Roundhouse, and a selection of other North London venues from 25 ? 29 October 2006. A mix of headline acts will front the performances at BBC Electric Proms on the main stage each night, alongside upcoming artists and acoustic sets in other parts of The Roundhouse. The film strand will complement the programme of events taking place including screenings, masterclasses and other musical and visual installations.
So, what are the BBC New Music Shorts team looking for? Ideas can be for films in any genre ? documentary, animation, drama, experimental or even a straight promo ? and run any length from one to ten minutes. The challenge is to create a film that captures the music in an original way, to create a ?new music moment? in the spirit of the BBC Electric Proms.
BBC Electric Proms Festival Director Lorna Clarke said, ?BBC Electric Proms is about encompassing all elements of the musical and cultural mix. The BBC has been a long term supporter of new filmmakers and the BBC New Music Shorts programme will develop and build on that heritage.?
BBC Electric Proms will be broadcast across a number of BBC television and radio networks including BBC Two, BBC Three, Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3, 1Xtra, 6 Music, BBC Asian Network and BBC World Service. There will be extensive online coverage, and digital television viewers will be able to enjoy performances on demand at the push of the red button.
21 July 2006. A new filmmaking initiative called BBC New Music Shorts was launched today. BBC Electric Proms, BBC Film Network and BBC New Talent are offering a challenge to new filmmakers to develop original and creative ideas around music filmmaking as part of the programme for this Autumn?s BBC Electric Proms festival.
The BBC enjoys unparalleled links with new film talent, and has partnered with the UK?s leading independent record labels - Warp Records, Ninja Tune, Domino and 679 Recordings - who have provided six tracks from their latest releases to offer filmmakers the chance to make films inspired by them. From 17 July, budding filmmakers are invited to log on to www.bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork and submit innovative ideas for new music shorts.
The BBC New Music Shorts team will commission the best and provide a budget of up to £5,000 to fund production of each short. Each piece will be produced by Warp Films and the films will be premiered at the forthcoming BBC Electric Proms festival and online at Film Network, the BBC?s interactive showcase for new British filmmakers.
BBC Electric Proms is taking place at the Roundhouse, and a selection of other North London venues from 25 ? 29 October 2006. A mix of headline acts will front the performances at BBC Electric Proms on the main stage each night, alongside upcoming artists and acoustic sets in other parts of The Roundhouse. The film strand will complement the programme of events taking place including screenings, masterclasses and other musical and visual installations.
So, what are the BBC New Music Shorts team looking for? Ideas can be for films in any genre ? documentary, animation, drama, experimental or even a straight promo ? and run any length from one to ten minutes. The challenge is to create a film that captures the music in an original way, to create a ?new music moment? in the spirit of the BBC Electric Proms.
BBC Electric Proms Festival Director Lorna Clarke said, ?BBC Electric Proms is about encompassing all elements of the musical and cultural mix. The BBC has been a long term supporter of new filmmakers and the BBC New Music Shorts programme will develop and build on that heritage.?
BBC Electric Proms will be broadcast across a number of BBC television and radio networks including BBC Two, BBC Three, Radio 1, Radio 2, Radio 3, 1Xtra, 6 Music, BBC Asian Network and BBC World Service. There will be extensive online coverage, and digital television viewers will be able to enjoy performances on demand at the push of the red button.
PREMIER LEAGUE BACKS NEW CARTOON ON CBBC
The FA Premier League has agreed an exclusive deal to work with animation property ‘The Likeaballs’, a new cartoon that has kicked off on the CBBC Channel.
The cartoon is aimed at five to nine-year-olds, and involves a team of football-shaped aliens, the Likeaballs, who do battle with their adversaries, the Dislikeaballs. The 10 minute episodes show the Likeaballs using positive attitudes such as teamwork and fair play to get through a series of challenging situations.
This is the first time that the FAPL has agreed any association with a children’s TV property. The Likeaballs is a 26-part series currently being broadcast on CBBC every day at 4pm.
Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Scudamore, said: "Although the Premier League is involved in a number of football-based community initiatives that are aimed at young people, we have never come across a property with the kind of potential that ‘The Likeaballs’ has to communicate with children on a level like this.
“The Likeaballs has the right kind of attitude and is able to get across positive messages in a fun and interesting way that youngsters can understand and relate to.
“I am delighted that we have found this innovative new way to use football in a positive fashion.”
Likeaballs creator Jim Quick added: "All of us down here at Likeaballs' Headquarters are very excited that the Premier League has decided that the Likeaballs represent the same values and principles that the FAPL hold. Together we will deliver the motto of the Likeaballs..."Let the Fun and Games Begin"’.
Likeaballs has also appointed 4KIDS International to be their global distribution partner.
The Likeaballs is broadcast every day on the CBBC at 4pm. There are 26 episodes running at 10 minutes each.
For more on the cartoon series, visit: www.likeaballs.co.uk
The cartoon is aimed at five to nine-year-olds, and involves a team of football-shaped aliens, the Likeaballs, who do battle with their adversaries, the Dislikeaballs. The 10 minute episodes show the Likeaballs using positive attitudes such as teamwork and fair play to get through a series of challenging situations.
This is the first time that the FAPL has agreed any association with a children’s TV property. The Likeaballs is a 26-part series currently being broadcast on CBBC every day at 4pm.
Premier League Chief Executive, Richard Scudamore, said: "Although the Premier League is involved in a number of football-based community initiatives that are aimed at young people, we have never come across a property with the kind of potential that ‘The Likeaballs’ has to communicate with children on a level like this.
“The Likeaballs has the right kind of attitude and is able to get across positive messages in a fun and interesting way that youngsters can understand and relate to.
“I am delighted that we have found this innovative new way to use football in a positive fashion.”
Likeaballs creator Jim Quick added: "All of us down here at Likeaballs' Headquarters are very excited that the Premier League has decided that the Likeaballs represent the same values and principles that the FAPL hold. Together we will deliver the motto of the Likeaballs..."Let the Fun and Games Begin"’.
Likeaballs has also appointed 4KIDS International to be their global distribution partner.
The Likeaballs is broadcast every day on the CBBC at 4pm. There are 26 episodes running at 10 minutes each.
For more on the cartoon series, visit: www.likeaballs.co.uk
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
A Home Of Your Own DVD
The hilarious ‘silent’ comedy A Home Of Your Own is finally available on DVD,
digitally restored and previously unavailable, it features fabulous performances
from some of the legends of British comedy.
A young couple: Richard Briers (The Good Life) and Bridget Armstrong begin
the process of building their dream home. From selecting the site, to the day –
several years and children later - when the couple finally move in, this mad-cap
comedy follows the trials and tribulations caused by the incompetent labourers
called in to help them.
The cast of builders ensure that slapstick comedy is never far away. Ronnie
Barker (The Two Ronnies, Porridge) plays the put upon cement mixer, with one
of his greatest scenes fondly remembered at his BAFTA tribute in 2004. Peter
Butterworth (Carry On…) plays the short-sited and hapless carpenter, and
Bernard Cribbins (Carry On Spying) is the equally incompetent stonemason.
This noisy but wordless comedy leads to broken windows, sections of the road
being repeatedly dug up, and countless cups of tea being made in this satirical,
but light-hearted look at the British building trade.
Bonus material: Interview with the producer Bob Kellett
Title: A Home Of Your Own
RRP: £9.99
Catalogue No.: DC10024
Release Date: 7 August 2006
“As a performer Ronnie Barker made
comedy look effortlessly funny, as
meticulous as he was talented”
BBC online
digitally restored and previously unavailable, it features fabulous performances
from some of the legends of British comedy.
A young couple: Richard Briers (The Good Life) and Bridget Armstrong begin
the process of building their dream home. From selecting the site, to the day –
several years and children later - when the couple finally move in, this mad-cap
comedy follows the trials and tribulations caused by the incompetent labourers
called in to help them.
The cast of builders ensure that slapstick comedy is never far away. Ronnie
Barker (The Two Ronnies, Porridge) plays the put upon cement mixer, with one
of his greatest scenes fondly remembered at his BAFTA tribute in 2004. Peter
Butterworth (Carry On…) plays the short-sited and hapless carpenter, and
Bernard Cribbins (Carry On Spying) is the equally incompetent stonemason.
This noisy but wordless comedy leads to broken windows, sections of the road
being repeatedly dug up, and countless cups of tea being made in this satirical,
but light-hearted look at the British building trade.
Bonus material: Interview with the producer Bob Kellett
Title: A Home Of Your Own
RRP: £9.99
Catalogue No.: DC10024
Release Date: 7 August 2006
“As a performer Ronnie Barker made
comedy look effortlessly funny, as
meticulous as he was talented”
BBC online
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Wienerworld Releases
Wienerworld is delighted to announce the release of Howard Jones – Live At Salt Lake City, Latin Quarter – Live At Full House Rock Show and The Steve Morse Band Live all available from 28th August.
Howard Jones – Live At Salt Lake City
In 1983 Howard Jones - now considered to be one of the true godfathers of electronic music - released his first single New Song. Quite unexpectedly and unbelievably for a debut single it went to #3 in the charts. Howard’s follow up single What Is Love? proved that it had been no fluke as it rocketed to #2. No surprise then that when his first album Human’s Lib was released: it blasted its way straight to the very top of the charts and went platinum.
Latin Quarter – Live At Full House Rock Show
A mix of music styles spanning reggae, rock, dance and new wave and a mix of band members – Latin Quarter have always been a band that was like a melting pot of different cultures. But they never mixed their message; their powerful and significant lyrics, covering issues such as unemployment and racism, clearly highlighting their social conscience and political convictions whilst never failing to entertain.
The Steve Morse Band Live
Since forming the Dixie Dregs in 1975 Steve Morse has graced many bands with his guitar skills. Rated as one of the finest guitar players in the world he even replaced the awesome Joe Satriani on guitar whilst touring with Deep Purple. He also played alongside other greats such as Steve Vai, Jeff Beck, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Joe Perry.
Howard Jones – Live At Salt Lake City
In 1983 Howard Jones - now considered to be one of the true godfathers of electronic music - released his first single New Song. Quite unexpectedly and unbelievably for a debut single it went to #3 in the charts. Howard’s follow up single What Is Love? proved that it had been no fluke as it rocketed to #2. No surprise then that when his first album Human’s Lib was released: it blasted its way straight to the very top of the charts and went platinum.
Latin Quarter – Live At Full House Rock Show
A mix of music styles spanning reggae, rock, dance and new wave and a mix of band members – Latin Quarter have always been a band that was like a melting pot of different cultures. But they never mixed their message; their powerful and significant lyrics, covering issues such as unemployment and racism, clearly highlighting their social conscience and political convictions whilst never failing to entertain.
The Steve Morse Band Live
Since forming the Dixie Dregs in 1975 Steve Morse has graced many bands with his guitar skills. Rated as one of the finest guitar players in the world he even replaced the awesome Joe Satriani on guitar whilst touring with Deep Purple. He also played alongside other greats such as Steve Vai, Jeff Beck, Lynyrd Skynyrd and Joe Perry.
FELLINI DVD BOX SET
Infinity Arthouse is delighted to announce the release of a stunning six-disc box set from cinematic maestro Federico Fellini. The set will be released on 14 August 2006 and features three key works, Orchestra Rehearsal, And The Ship Sails On, Ginger and Fred along with a whole host of extras, from one of cinema’s most creative and influential forces who directed such groundbreaking films as La Dolce Vita and Amarcord.
Orchestra Rehearsal is a biting musical satire from the master. In this sly social and political allegory, an orchestra assembles for a rehearsal under the inquisitive lenses of a TV crew. The wonderful music by Oscar®-winner Nino Rota (The Godfather I & II, The Leopard, Fellini’s La Dolce Vita), earned the film the Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists Silver Ribbon award for best score.
“A little masterpiece…a lovely little jeud’esprit” Daily Telegraph
Ginger and Fred is Fellini’s award winning take on the world of small time show business. It skewers the medium Fellini loved to hate with a behind-the-scenes view of a variety show broadcast. Two former dancers from the 1940s, Ginger (Giulietta Masina) and Fred (Marcello Mastroianni – La Dolce Vita), who imitated the dance routines of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, reunite after retiring for over 20 years. It was nominated for a BAFTA and a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and received great critical acclaim on its theatrical release.
“Irresistibly charming” Time Out
And The Ship Sails On is a quirky imaginative fable, following a 1914 ocean voyage to scatter the ashes of a world famous opera singer (Janet Suzman). The ship’s passengers include aristocrats, diplomats and a band of opera singers. These egocentric passengers indulge their follies and fancies both vocally and romantically, but their gilded world is about to receive a chill blast of reality. This is a majestic masterpiece made even more so by its haunting musical score featuring Tchaikovsky, Richard Strauss, Schubert and Debussy.
“Some simply stunning moments of surreal beauty and impish humour” Radio Times
Title: Fellini Box Set Release Date: 14 August 2006
RRP: £39.99 Language: Italian with English Subtitles
DVD Extras
Orchestra Rehearsal
Fellini’s Autobiography
Fellininiana Part 2: 10th Anniversary Of The Death Of Fellini
La Felliniana - Frederico In The City (Frederico In Citta)
La Felliniana - Powder Of Rimini (Polvere Di Rimini)
La Felliniana - That Train To Rome (Quel Treno Per Roma)
La Felliniana - Target The Director (Tirate Sul Regista)
La Felliniana - The Line Of The Shadow (La Linea D'ombra)
Ginger and Fred
La Felliniana: The Final Walk
La Felliniana: Silence
Marcello Mastrioianni: A Self Portrait (black and white)
And The Ship Sails On
La Felliniana: A Star Is Born
La Felliniana: A Genius at Work
Federico Fellini: A Self Portrait (black and white)
Orchestra Rehearsal is a biting musical satire from the master. In this sly social and political allegory, an orchestra assembles for a rehearsal under the inquisitive lenses of a TV crew. The wonderful music by Oscar®-winner Nino Rota (The Godfather I & II, The Leopard, Fellini’s La Dolce Vita), earned the film the Italian National Syndicate of Film Journalists Silver Ribbon award for best score.
“A little masterpiece…a lovely little jeud’esprit” Daily Telegraph
Ginger and Fred is Fellini’s award winning take on the world of small time show business. It skewers the medium Fellini loved to hate with a behind-the-scenes view of a variety show broadcast. Two former dancers from the 1940s, Ginger (Giulietta Masina) and Fred (Marcello Mastroianni – La Dolce Vita), who imitated the dance routines of Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers, reunite after retiring for over 20 years. It was nominated for a BAFTA and a Golden Globe for Best Foreign Language Film and received great critical acclaim on its theatrical release.
“Irresistibly charming” Time Out
And The Ship Sails On is a quirky imaginative fable, following a 1914 ocean voyage to scatter the ashes of a world famous opera singer (Janet Suzman). The ship’s passengers include aristocrats, diplomats and a band of opera singers. These egocentric passengers indulge their follies and fancies both vocally and romantically, but their gilded world is about to receive a chill blast of reality. This is a majestic masterpiece made even more so by its haunting musical score featuring Tchaikovsky, Richard Strauss, Schubert and Debussy.
“Some simply stunning moments of surreal beauty and impish humour” Radio Times
Title: Fellini Box Set Release Date: 14 August 2006
RRP: £39.99 Language: Italian with English Subtitles
DVD Extras
Orchestra Rehearsal
Fellini’s Autobiography
Fellininiana Part 2: 10th Anniversary Of The Death Of Fellini
La Felliniana - Frederico In The City (Frederico In Citta)
La Felliniana - Powder Of Rimini (Polvere Di Rimini)
La Felliniana - That Train To Rome (Quel Treno Per Roma)
La Felliniana - Target The Director (Tirate Sul Regista)
La Felliniana - The Line Of The Shadow (La Linea D'ombra)
Ginger and Fred
La Felliniana: The Final Walk
La Felliniana: Silence
Marcello Mastrioianni: A Self Portrait (black and white)
And The Ship Sails On
La Felliniana: A Star Is Born
La Felliniana: A Genius at Work
Federico Fellini: A Self Portrait (black and white)
Murder, She Wrote Season 3 on DVD
COMPLETE THIRD SEASON OF ‘MURDER, SHE
WROTE’ TO BE RELEASED AS 6-DISC BOXSET
JESSICA FLETCHER (Angela Lansbury) continues her investigations in Season 3 of ‘Murder She Wrote’ which is released as a 6-disc DVD boxset by Universal Playback on July 31st.
‘Murder She Wrote’ is the longest running, most watched tv detective series of all time and was nominated for a staggering 44 Emmy Awards with Lansbury winning 4 Golden Globes for her role.
It is so popular that its still airing on BBC1 and UK Gold which is a considerable achievement for a series that was originally launched in 1984! Season 3 was the most successful of all, helped no doubt by the appearance of guest stars such as George Clooney, Courtney Cox and Tom Selleck.
Jessica Fletcher is a former English teacher and famed mystery writer who has a gift for solving mysteries. It seems murder follows her around whether it be to the houses of her friends and family or to her hometown of Cabot Cove in Maine.
The boxset has over 17 hours of content including a bonus crossover episode with Magnum P1 and a ‘Great 80’s Flashback’ retrospective bonus feature.
Episode Listing:
Death Stalks the Big Top: Part 1
Death Stalks the Big Top: Part 2
Unfinished Business
One White Rose for Death
Corned Beef & Carnage
Dead Man's Gold
Deadline for Murder
Magnum on Ice
Obituary for a Dead Anchor
Stage Struck
Night of the Headless Horseman
The Corpse Flew First Class
Episode Listing cntd
Crossed Up
Murder in a Minor Key
The Bottom Line Is Murder
Death Takes a Dive
Simon Says, Color Me Dead
No Laughing Murder
No Accounting for Murder
The Cemetery Vote
The Days Dwindle Down
Murder, She Spoke Product Information:
Release date: July 31st 2006
Running Time: 17 hours 11 mins
Certificate: 12
No. of Discs: 6
No. of Episodes: 22
WROTE’ TO BE RELEASED AS 6-DISC BOXSET
JESSICA FLETCHER (Angela Lansbury) continues her investigations in Season 3 of ‘Murder She Wrote’ which is released as a 6-disc DVD boxset by Universal Playback on July 31st.
‘Murder She Wrote’ is the longest running, most watched tv detective series of all time and was nominated for a staggering 44 Emmy Awards with Lansbury winning 4 Golden Globes for her role.
It is so popular that its still airing on BBC1 and UK Gold which is a considerable achievement for a series that was originally launched in 1984! Season 3 was the most successful of all, helped no doubt by the appearance of guest stars such as George Clooney, Courtney Cox and Tom Selleck.
Jessica Fletcher is a former English teacher and famed mystery writer who has a gift for solving mysteries. It seems murder follows her around whether it be to the houses of her friends and family or to her hometown of Cabot Cove in Maine.
The boxset has over 17 hours of content including a bonus crossover episode with Magnum P1 and a ‘Great 80’s Flashback’ retrospective bonus feature.
Episode Listing:
Death Stalks the Big Top: Part 1
Death Stalks the Big Top: Part 2
Unfinished Business
One White Rose for Death
Corned Beef & Carnage
Dead Man's Gold
Deadline for Murder
Magnum on Ice
Obituary for a Dead Anchor
Stage Struck
Night of the Headless Horseman
The Corpse Flew First Class
Episode Listing cntd
Crossed Up
Murder in a Minor Key
The Bottom Line Is Murder
Death Takes a Dive
Simon Says, Color Me Dead
No Laughing Murder
No Accounting for Murder
The Cemetery Vote
The Days Dwindle Down
Murder, She Spoke Product Information:
Release date: July 31st 2006
Running Time: 17 hours 11 mins
Certificate: 12
No. of Discs: 6
No. of Episodes: 22
FLAMENCO FLIRTS AT CAMBRIDGE
Optimist Film's British comedy drama, Flirting with Flamenco, has been selected for screening at this years 26th Cambridge Film Festival, marking the second year running that a movie produced by Cambridge graduate Neville Raschid backed by the Emerging Talent Film Partnership, has been chosen.
Flirting with Flamenco's appearance follows that of the company's first title, Lost Dogs back in 2005, and debuts at the festival several months prior to its autumn release across regional digital theatres throughout the UK.
The film centres around 'plain Jane' Sylvia, a women chronically lacking in self-confidence splitting her life between her family and the call centre she works at for the monstrous Bowker and his executive assistant Karen.
Sylvia's life changes suddenly after spotting the gorgeous Pablo strutting his stuff at a Flamenco demo and passion in Perivale blossoms. The film's main case includes; Jeremy Edwards - Hollyoaks, Tom Watt - East Enders, Elize du Toit - Hollyoaks and Holly Davidson - Casualty.
Neville Raschid, Optimist Films director, commented: "Being invited to screen a movie for the second time running by one of the country's best and most respected film festivals is amazing - a true testament to all those involved."
Flirting with Flamenco's appearance follows that of the company's first title, Lost Dogs back in 2005, and debuts at the festival several months prior to its autumn release across regional digital theatres throughout the UK.
The film centres around 'plain Jane' Sylvia, a women chronically lacking in self-confidence splitting her life between her family and the call centre she works at for the monstrous Bowker and his executive assistant Karen.
Sylvia's life changes suddenly after spotting the gorgeous Pablo strutting his stuff at a Flamenco demo and passion in Perivale blossoms. The film's main case includes; Jeremy Edwards - Hollyoaks, Tom Watt - East Enders, Elize du Toit - Hollyoaks and Holly Davidson - Casualty.
Neville Raschid, Optimist Films director, commented: "Being invited to screen a movie for the second time running by one of the country's best and most respected film festivals is amazing - a true testament to all those involved."
Bloodspell Locks Horns with Cars and Shrek
Indie Fantasy Epic Movie Bloodspell Locks Horns with Cars and Shrek
Running the gauntlet of its Hollywood hi-tech rivals, Scottish indie
overlord Strange Company launches the first part of 'Bloodspell', a
computer-animated action-adventure fantasy film, produced over three
years on a budget of less than GBP £5,000.
Free to download and view on its website (http://www.bloodspell.com )
from July 2006, the feature-length Bloodspell tells the story of a world
where some people carry magic blood in their veins: when their blood is
spilled, its magical power is released. The movie follows the adventures
of Jered, a monk of the magic-hating Church of the Angels, as he
discovers he is one of the ‘blooded’ and has to flee for his life into a
bizarre magical underworld.
Strange Company, producer of ‘machinima’ films which manipulate 3D game
software to create original animated stories, shot Bloodspell using the
visual technology of the computer game 'Neverwinter Nights'
(http://nwn.bioware.com ). By using the game's existing graphics instead
of the time-consuming frame by frame rendering techniques of movie
powerhouses like Pixar and Dreamworks, and by calling on a largely
volunteer work force, Strange Company produced its epic for a tiny
fraction of any Hollywood budget.
Science fiction author Cory Doctorow says of Bloodspell: "There's some
damned fine storytelling here. The Strange Company folks are at the
forefront of using the machinima medium for feature-length drama."
Convinced that big budget commercial films mask uninspiring stories with
flashy visuals, artistic director Hugh Hancock comments: “What we lack
in slick polish we make up for in originality and passion.”
Bloodspell is released under a ‘creative commons’
(http://creativecommons.org ) licence which allows completely free
access to and circulation of the film, reflecting its grass-roots
origins.
The first part of Bloodspell and all subsequent episodes can be
downloaded free at http://www.bloodspell.com
Running the gauntlet of its Hollywood hi-tech rivals, Scottish indie
overlord Strange Company launches the first part of 'Bloodspell', a
computer-animated action-adventure fantasy film, produced over three
years on a budget of less than GBP £5,000.
Free to download and view on its website (http://www.bloodspell.com )
from July 2006, the feature-length Bloodspell tells the story of a world
where some people carry magic blood in their veins: when their blood is
spilled, its magical power is released. The movie follows the adventures
of Jered, a monk of the magic-hating Church of the Angels, as he
discovers he is one of the ‘blooded’ and has to flee for his life into a
bizarre magical underworld.
Strange Company, producer of ‘machinima’ films which manipulate 3D game
software to create original animated stories, shot Bloodspell using the
visual technology of the computer game 'Neverwinter Nights'
(http://nwn.bioware.com ). By using the game's existing graphics instead
of the time-consuming frame by frame rendering techniques of movie
powerhouses like Pixar and Dreamworks, and by calling on a largely
volunteer work force, Strange Company produced its epic for a tiny
fraction of any Hollywood budget.
Science fiction author Cory Doctorow says of Bloodspell: "There's some
damned fine storytelling here. The Strange Company folks are at the
forefront of using the machinima medium for feature-length drama."
Convinced that big budget commercial films mask uninspiring stories with
flashy visuals, artistic director Hugh Hancock comments: “What we lack
in slick polish we make up for in originality and passion.”
Bloodspell is released under a ‘creative commons’
(http://creativecommons.org ) licence which allows completely free
access to and circulation of the film, reflecting its grass-roots
origins.
The first part of Bloodspell and all subsequent episodes can be
downloaded free at http://www.bloodspell.com
‘Northern Exposure’ Season 4 on DVD
EMMY AWARD WINNING CULT TV CLASSIC
TO BE RELEASED AS 6-DISC DVD BOX SET
Season 4 of the quirky and ever-popular comedy drama ‘Northern Exposure’ is to be released by Universal Playback as a 6-disc DVD boxset on July 31. The first series was launched in 1990 and quickly attracted a large fan base before going on to become one of America’s most popular tv programmes.
Season 4 sees the return of Dr Joel Fleishman (Rob Morrow) and the offbeat citizens of Cicely, Alaska, and guest stars include Anthony Edwards from ER, Patrick Warburton from Seinfeld and 80’s pop legend Adam Ant.
Across all Seasons, ‘Northern Exposure’ was nominated for 16 Emmy Awards, winning seven of them, and the Season 4 boxset contains over 18 hours of programming, plus additional bonus material.
Joel Fleishman is fresh out of medical school and fresh out of luck. Failing to read the fine print in his scholarship conditions, he finds he has no choice but to move to the remote and somewhat eccentric town of Cicely in the wilds of Alaska.
Once there, he is welcomed with open arms by all 215 people who live in the town and as he contends with the daily lives and rituals of these trusting although not-so-normal folk, Joel starts to realise that Cicely’s quieter way of life is probably more civilized than the hustle and bustle of Manhattan where he grew up.
He soon starts to build an eclectic circle of friends which includes wealthy former astronaut Maurice Minnifield, feisty pilot Maggie O’Connell, mayor and bar owner Holling Vincoeur, intellectual ex-con and radio presenter Chris Stevens, store owner Ruth-Anne Miller and film buff Ed Chigliak
Episode Listing:
Northwest Passages
Midnight Sun…
Nothing’s Perfect
Heroes
Blowing Bubbles
On Your Own
Thanksgiving
The Bad Seed
Do The Right Thing
Crime And Punishment
Revelations
Survival Of The Species
Duets
Grosse Pointe 48230
Learning Curve
Ill Wind
Love’s Labour Mislaid
Northern Lights
Family Feud
Homesick
The Big Feast
Kaddish For Uncle Manny
Mud And Blood
Sleeping With The Enemy
Old Tree
Product Information:
Release date: July 31st 2006
Running Time: 18 hours 20mins
Certificate: 15
No. of Discs: 6
No. of Episodes: 25
TO BE RELEASED AS 6-DISC DVD BOX SET
Season 4 of the quirky and ever-popular comedy drama ‘Northern Exposure’ is to be released by Universal Playback as a 6-disc DVD boxset on July 31. The first series was launched in 1990 and quickly attracted a large fan base before going on to become one of America’s most popular tv programmes.
Season 4 sees the return of Dr Joel Fleishman (Rob Morrow) and the offbeat citizens of Cicely, Alaska, and guest stars include Anthony Edwards from ER, Patrick Warburton from Seinfeld and 80’s pop legend Adam Ant.
Across all Seasons, ‘Northern Exposure’ was nominated for 16 Emmy Awards, winning seven of them, and the Season 4 boxset contains over 18 hours of programming, plus additional bonus material.
Joel Fleishman is fresh out of medical school and fresh out of luck. Failing to read the fine print in his scholarship conditions, he finds he has no choice but to move to the remote and somewhat eccentric town of Cicely in the wilds of Alaska.
Once there, he is welcomed with open arms by all 215 people who live in the town and as he contends with the daily lives and rituals of these trusting although not-so-normal folk, Joel starts to realise that Cicely’s quieter way of life is probably more civilized than the hustle and bustle of Manhattan where he grew up.
He soon starts to build an eclectic circle of friends which includes wealthy former astronaut Maurice Minnifield, feisty pilot Maggie O’Connell, mayor and bar owner Holling Vincoeur, intellectual ex-con and radio presenter Chris Stevens, store owner Ruth-Anne Miller and film buff Ed Chigliak
Episode Listing:
Northwest Passages
Midnight Sun…
Nothing’s Perfect
Heroes
Blowing Bubbles
On Your Own
Thanksgiving
The Bad Seed
Do The Right Thing
Crime And Punishment
Revelations
Survival Of The Species
Duets
Grosse Pointe 48230
Learning Curve
Ill Wind
Love’s Labour Mislaid
Northern Lights
Family Feud
Homesick
The Big Feast
Kaddish For Uncle Manny
Mud And Blood
Sleeping With The Enemy
Old Tree
Product Information:
Release date: July 31st 2006
Running Time: 18 hours 20mins
Certificate: 15
No. of Discs: 6
No. of Episodes: 25
Talent Circle Super Shorts
Blue Star Mobile and Star Wars Director to Co-sponsor Inaugural Mobile Award
Leading mobile film content creation company, Production TLMH Ltd. (TLMH) has
announced that Blue Star Mobile Group PLC and legendary Hollywood director,
Irvin Kershner are supporting a pioneering mobile film award.
The two, in association with TLMH, are sponsoring the Talent Circle Super Shorts
Mobile Award. The award is given to a film made for screening on handheld
devices such as iPods, mobile phones and PSP's. All films must be a minimum of
20 seconds and a maximum of 60 seconds in length.
Tony Klinger, Chief Executive, Production TLMH Ltd., said:
"TLMH is proud to be a sponsor of Talent Circle in association with our partners
Blue Star. The addition of Irvin Kershner is the icing on this very rich and
special cake! Such a stellar combination reflects the growing prevalence of
content creators in the mobile entertainment market and the creative industry at
large."
Tony Klinger, Irvin Kershner and a representative from Blue Star Mobile will
form the judging panel for the Mobile Award. Irvin Kershner has also been
appointed as overall Festival Patron. The Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back
director said:
"Talent Circle's Super Shorts Film Festival is a great contribution to the
development of film Today, audiences do not see enough of new and creative film
making in the form of short films and only witness the feature length films that
come largely from Hollywood. This festival gives young film makers a chance to
exhibit their ideas and projects to the public and gives audiences a chance to
see new and refreshing films from the undiscovered future filmmakers."
TLMH is enabling audiences to view the short-listed films online and then text-
vote their favourite films. Users will receive a mobile video download as a
reward for voting.
Owen Purcell, Production Director, Blue Star Mobile Group PLC said:
"Mobile is set to become a significant addition to the meteoric growth of user-
generated entertainment channels. Super Shorts provides users with the ability
to show off their creativity and should unearth some major new talents in the
world of entertainment.
About Talent Circle Super Shorts Film Festival
www.supershorts.org.uk
Leading mobile film content creation company, Production TLMH Ltd. (TLMH) has
announced that Blue Star Mobile Group PLC and legendary Hollywood director,
Irvin Kershner are supporting a pioneering mobile film award.
The two, in association with TLMH, are sponsoring the Talent Circle Super Shorts
Mobile Award. The award is given to a film made for screening on handheld
devices such as iPods, mobile phones and PSP's. All films must be a minimum of
20 seconds and a maximum of 60 seconds in length.
Tony Klinger, Chief Executive, Production TLMH Ltd., said:
"TLMH is proud to be a sponsor of Talent Circle in association with our partners
Blue Star. The addition of Irvin Kershner is the icing on this very rich and
special cake! Such a stellar combination reflects the growing prevalence of
content creators in the mobile entertainment market and the creative industry at
large."
Tony Klinger, Irvin Kershner and a representative from Blue Star Mobile will
form the judging panel for the Mobile Award. Irvin Kershner has also been
appointed as overall Festival Patron. The Star Wars V: The Empire Strikes Back
director said:
"Talent Circle's Super Shorts Film Festival is a great contribution to the
development of film Today, audiences do not see enough of new and creative film
making in the form of short films and only witness the feature length films that
come largely from Hollywood. This festival gives young film makers a chance to
exhibit their ideas and projects to the public and gives audiences a chance to
see new and refreshing films from the undiscovered future filmmakers."
TLMH is enabling audiences to view the short-listed films online and then text-
vote their favourite films. Users will receive a mobile video download as a
reward for voting.
Owen Purcell, Production Director, Blue Star Mobile Group PLC said:
"Mobile is set to become a significant addition to the meteoric growth of user-
generated entertainment channels. Super Shorts provides users with the ability
to show off their creativity and should unearth some major new talents in the
world of entertainment.
About Talent Circle Super Shorts Film Festival
www.supershorts.org.uk
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