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 15, 2003
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.
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.
Tuesday, August 26, 2003
Afterlife Goes From Edinburgh to L.A. via London
The New Found Film, Afterlife, a Gabriel Films productions supported by Scottish TV, Grampian TV and Scottish Screen received news today that it will appear at the prestigious American Film Institute International Film Festival in November.
Afterlife, which collected three awards over the last weekend, the EIFF Audience Award and two Herald Angel Awards, will also appear at the London Film Festival on Friday 31 October at the Odeon in Leicester Square.
Commenting on the film's continuing success, Sandy Ross Managing Director of Scottish TV said:
"We are delighted at the response and the attention it received at the Edinburgh International Film Festival and from that the buzz the film has created. It is a tribute to the quality of the film and the film-makers who produced it."
The New Found Film, Afterlife, a Gabriel Films productions supported by Scottish TV, Grampian TV and Scottish Screen received news today that it will appear at the prestigious American Film Institute International Film Festival in November.
Afterlife, which collected three awards over the last weekend, the EIFF Audience Award and two Herald Angel Awards, will also appear at the London Film Festival on Friday 31 October at the Odeon in Leicester Square.
Commenting on the film's continuing success, Sandy Ross Managing Director of Scottish TV said:
"We are delighted at the response and the attention it received at the Edinburgh International Film Festival and from that the buzz the film has created. It is a tribute to the quality of the film and the film-makers who produced it."
Double delight for Scottish TV at Edinburgh International Film Festival 2003
Scottish TV has double cause for celebration today as two of it's talent schemes, 'New Found Films and This Scotland', for film and documentary makers, picked up top awards at this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival.
In the first instance, The Audience Award, given to the film which has had the most impact and gained the biggest number of votes from the public, went to Afterlife the New Found Film, from first time feature director Alison Peebles. Afterlife tells the heart-warming and moving story of a young journalist on the brink of a career breakthrough who is forced to re-assess his values in the light of a family crisis. The film, funded by, Scottish
TV, Grampian TV and Scottish Screen introduced to the screen young Down's Syndrome actress Paula Sage, acting alongside the established talent of Kevin McKidd and Shirley Henderson. Sir Sean Connery attended a screening of the film and was visibly moved by the story and the remarkable performances from the cast. Kevin and Paula each received the additional honour of being presented with a Herald Angel for their performances.
Secondly, She Toon the Bingo City, a 'This Scotland' documentary, has won the prestigious Grierson Prize for Documentary at the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
She Toon - the Bingo City looks at Dundee, considered the bingo capital of Scotland and the women play the game. Women in Dundee were traditionally regarded as the breadwinners due to the economic situation there and this brilliant short documentary reflects the part women have played in Dundee's development.
Directed by talented young director Craig Collinson for Nobles Gate the documentary triumphed over a strong field of contenders to win the coveted prize.
Executive producer for Scottish TV & Grampian TV, Henry Eagles commented.
"This is marvellous news for both the broadcasters and Scottish Screen. My fellow Executive producer from Scottish Screen, Becky Lloyd and I were most impressed with the quality of this film and we are delighted that its originality has been recognised by the Grierson jury. It proves that fine documentary making is alive and thriving in Scotland, the country of its originator John Grierson. We are absolutely delighted."
She Toon- The Bingo City, will be transmitted as part of the This Scotland documentary strand, on Scottish TV and Grampian TV in the autumn.
Sandy Ross Managing Director of Scottish TV said:
"Naturally we are delighted that both productions teams behind these ventures have seen their efforts rewarded. These awards are a vindication of the depth and breadth of production talent that resides here in Scotland, and given the right opportunity, which these schemes present, can flourish and produce world-class films and documentaries."
Scottish TV has double cause for celebration today as two of it's talent schemes, 'New Found Films and This Scotland', for film and documentary makers, picked up top awards at this year's Edinburgh International Film Festival.
In the first instance, The Audience Award, given to the film which has had the most impact and gained the biggest number of votes from the public, went to Afterlife the New Found Film, from first time feature director Alison Peebles. Afterlife tells the heart-warming and moving story of a young journalist on the brink of a career breakthrough who is forced to re-assess his values in the light of a family crisis. The film, funded by, Scottish
TV, Grampian TV and Scottish Screen introduced to the screen young Down's Syndrome actress Paula Sage, acting alongside the established talent of Kevin McKidd and Shirley Henderson. Sir Sean Connery attended a screening of the film and was visibly moved by the story and the remarkable performances from the cast. Kevin and Paula each received the additional honour of being presented with a Herald Angel for their performances.
Secondly, She Toon the Bingo City, a 'This Scotland' documentary, has won the prestigious Grierson Prize for Documentary at the Edinburgh International Film Festival.
She Toon - the Bingo City looks at Dundee, considered the bingo capital of Scotland and the women play the game. Women in Dundee were traditionally regarded as the breadwinners due to the economic situation there and this brilliant short documentary reflects the part women have played in Dundee's development.
Directed by talented young director Craig Collinson for Nobles Gate the documentary triumphed over a strong field of contenders to win the coveted prize.
Executive producer for Scottish TV & Grampian TV, Henry Eagles commented.
"This is marvellous news for both the broadcasters and Scottish Screen. My fellow Executive producer from Scottish Screen, Becky Lloyd and I were most impressed with the quality of this film and we are delighted that its originality has been recognised by the Grierson jury. It proves that fine documentary making is alive and thriving in Scotland, the country of its originator John Grierson. We are absolutely delighted."
She Toon- The Bingo City, will be transmitted as part of the This Scotland documentary strand, on Scottish TV and Grampian TV in the autumn.
Sandy Ross Managing Director of Scottish TV said:
"Naturally we are delighted that both productions teams behind these ventures have seen their efforts rewarded. These awards are a vindication of the depth and breadth of production talent that resides here in Scotland, and given the right opportunity, which these schemes present, can flourish and produce world-class films and documentaries."
Friday, August 22, 2003
IT GIRL A HIT
Alex P. Michaels' short "The IT girl" gets 3 and a half stars on a Film Threat Review of the SHORTKUTZ – VOLUME III
"Some strange happenings are going on here, but it’s definitely
different and that’s the cool part.
To read the review, go to
http://www.filmthreat.com/Reviews.asp?Id=4872
and scroll down to "The IT girl."
You can purchase a copy of the DVD at
http://www.shortkutzdvd.com/catalogue.htm
For more news on Prelude2Cinema, Alex Michaels and the IT girl, go to:
www.prelude2cinema.com
Alex P. Michaels' short "The IT girl" gets 3 and a half stars on a Film Threat Review of the SHORTKUTZ – VOLUME III
"Some strange happenings are going on here, but it’s definitely
different and that’s the cool part.
To read the review, go to
http://www.filmthreat.com/Reviews.asp?Id=4872
and scroll down to "The IT girl."
You can purchase a copy of the DVD at
http://www.shortkutzdvd.com/catalogue.htm
For more news on Prelude2Cinema, Alex Michaels and the IT girl, go to:
www.prelude2cinema.com
Thursday, August 21, 2003
HITCHCOCK UNVEILED at GAINSBOROUGH STUDIOS
A Hitchcock Season in association with the British Film Institute (bfi) 16 September - 8 October 2003
This autumn Gainsborough Studios in association with the British Film Institute, will be hosting a Hitchcock Season - a series of film screenings and events. The occasion celebrates Gainsborough’s long association with British filmmaking and its new incarnation as a residential development and cultural centre.
The season begins with Anthony Minghella, Chairman of the British Film Institute, unveiling a specially commissioned sculpture by the artist Antony Donaldson. “Master of Suspense” is a massive bust of Hitchcock’s head which at three storeys high, aims to capture the size and drama of the cinema screen and Hitchcock himself. It also acts as a homage to the many famous directors and actors who passed through Gainsborough’s doors during the 1930s when it was dubbed “Hollywood on the Canal”.
Tuesday 16th September, 6-8pm - “Master of Suspense” unveiled by Anthony Minghella, Chairman of the British Film Institute
FILM SCREENINGS
The three films chosen have rarely been screened in public since their original release. Drawn from various stages of Hitchcock’s career, the films are all set in London and explore recurring themes of serial murders, wrongly accused men and the power of the mob.
Wednesday 1st October 7.30pm - The Lodger (1926),100mins approx. Silent - accompanied by live music. A young man is wrongly suspected of being a serial murderer. Can he prove his innocence before he is attacked by a dangerous gang of vigilantes hunting the killer?
Thursday 2nd October 7.30pm - Sabotage (1936), 77 mins
Alfred Hitchcock once described suspense as a bomb that the audience knows will explode but can do nothing to stop. Sabotage takes this metaphor literally building suspense and tension right to the final breath-taking conclusion of the film.
Tuesday 7th October 7.30pm - Frenzy (1972), 116 mins
Hitchcock’s second to last film, Frenzy was the first film he had made in London for 20 years. Like The Lodger, Frenzy explores themes of mistaken identity, serial murderers and reflects the prevailing sexual and political attitudes of 1970s Britain.
Wednesday 8th October 7.30pm - Talk by Jack Cardiff. The acclaimed cinematographer worked with Hitchcock on The Skin Game (1931), Under Capricorn (1949), and will no doubt provide a fascinating insight into the great director’s working methods as well as his own long career in the film industry.
There are 250 complimentary tickets available for each event which can obtained by sending your name, address, daytime telephone number and film name to:
stephen@gainsboroughstudios.co.uk
Gainsborough Studios - 1 Poole Street, London, N1
Nearest Tube - Old Street or Angel
A Hitchcock Season in association with the British Film Institute (bfi) 16 September - 8 October 2003
This autumn Gainsborough Studios in association with the British Film Institute, will be hosting a Hitchcock Season - a series of film screenings and events. The occasion celebrates Gainsborough’s long association with British filmmaking and its new incarnation as a residential development and cultural centre.
The season begins with Anthony Minghella, Chairman of the British Film Institute, unveiling a specially commissioned sculpture by the artist Antony Donaldson. “Master of Suspense” is a massive bust of Hitchcock’s head which at three storeys high, aims to capture the size and drama of the cinema screen and Hitchcock himself. It also acts as a homage to the many famous directors and actors who passed through Gainsborough’s doors during the 1930s when it was dubbed “Hollywood on the Canal”.
Tuesday 16th September, 6-8pm - “Master of Suspense” unveiled by Anthony Minghella, Chairman of the British Film Institute
FILM SCREENINGS
The three films chosen have rarely been screened in public since their original release. Drawn from various stages of Hitchcock’s career, the films are all set in London and explore recurring themes of serial murders, wrongly accused men and the power of the mob.
Wednesday 1st October 7.30pm - The Lodger (1926),100mins approx. Silent - accompanied by live music. A young man is wrongly suspected of being a serial murderer. Can he prove his innocence before he is attacked by a dangerous gang of vigilantes hunting the killer?
Thursday 2nd October 7.30pm - Sabotage (1936), 77 mins
Alfred Hitchcock once described suspense as a bomb that the audience knows will explode but can do nothing to stop. Sabotage takes this metaphor literally building suspense and tension right to the final breath-taking conclusion of the film.
Tuesday 7th October 7.30pm - Frenzy (1972), 116 mins
Hitchcock’s second to last film, Frenzy was the first film he had made in London for 20 years. Like The Lodger, Frenzy explores themes of mistaken identity, serial murderers and reflects the prevailing sexual and political attitudes of 1970s Britain.
Wednesday 8th October 7.30pm - Talk by Jack Cardiff. The acclaimed cinematographer worked with Hitchcock on The Skin Game (1931), Under Capricorn (1949), and will no doubt provide a fascinating insight into the great director’s working methods as well as his own long career in the film industry.
There are 250 complimentary tickets available for each event which can obtained by sending your name, address, daytime telephone number and film name to:
stephen@gainsboroughstudios.co.uk
Gainsborough Studios - 1 Poole Street, London, N1
Nearest Tube - Old Street or Angel
Wednesday, August 20, 2003
See acclaimed new short films online free
From today, film fans will be now be able to see the world’s very best film shorts thanks to a new section on the Tiscali UK web site.
Each month, the site http://www.tiscali.co.uk/entertainment/shortfilms
will show two exclusive short films that can’t be seen anywhere else on the web. The films will be available for the month to stream on demand and those accessing the site will also be able to critique and discuss the films with fellow shorts fans.
The site, which has been developed in partnership with short film specialists BritShorts, will introduce two new shorts per month and is designed to take short films to a wider broadband audience while also inspiring a new generation of film makers.
The First Films
1) The Brixtonian (Directed by Josh and Misha, UK)
The Brixtonian is a spoof documentary about a white trustafarian who wants to be black. The film follows the protagonist around the mean streets of Brixton, and features interviews with his parents in their plush Surrey home. The film was a big-hit at the Raindance Film Festival.
2) Sixth Scent (Directed by Petrina Buckley, Australia)
According to writer, producer and director Petrina Buckley, Sixth Scent is “a comic tale about the laws of karma at work in the superficial world of love and lust in the big city”. Winner of the Alternative Film festival in Italy 2003, the film also picked up the Platinum Award at the Worldfest in Houston and the Best Actress Award at the Mikrokino Fest.
Richard Ayers, Tiscali’s Portal Director says, “We’ve worked closely with BritShorts to produce an exciting site that will give film fans on the Internet the chance to see the cream of international short film making.”
From today, film fans will be now be able to see the world’s very best film shorts thanks to a new section on the Tiscali UK web site.
Each month, the site http://www.tiscali.co.uk/entertainment/shortfilms
will show two exclusive short films that can’t be seen anywhere else on the web. The films will be available for the month to stream on demand and those accessing the site will also be able to critique and discuss the films with fellow shorts fans.
The site, which has been developed in partnership with short film specialists BritShorts, will introduce two new shorts per month and is designed to take short films to a wider broadband audience while also inspiring a new generation of film makers.
The First Films
1) The Brixtonian (Directed by Josh and Misha, UK)
The Brixtonian is a spoof documentary about a white trustafarian who wants to be black. The film follows the protagonist around the mean streets of Brixton, and features interviews with his parents in their plush Surrey home. The film was a big-hit at the Raindance Film Festival.
2) Sixth Scent (Directed by Petrina Buckley, Australia)
According to writer, producer and director Petrina Buckley, Sixth Scent is “a comic tale about the laws of karma at work in the superficial world of love and lust in the big city”. Winner of the Alternative Film festival in Italy 2003, the film also picked up the Platinum Award at the Worldfest in Houston and the Best Actress Award at the Mikrokino Fest.
Richard Ayers, Tiscali’s Portal Director says, “We’ve worked closely with BritShorts to produce an exciting site that will give film fans on the Internet the chance to see the cream of international short film making.”
Monday, August 18, 2003
Lord of the Rings Exhibition a Great Success
The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition has sold more advance tickets than the hugely successful Bond and Star Trek exhibitions put together.
The unprecedented demand means that while some tickets will be available at the door when the Science Museum exhibition opens on 16 September, advanced booking is now strongly advised to avoid disappointment.
The eagerly awaited family exhibition arrives before the final instalment of the film trilogy and will be the only chance for European fans to explore for themselves the fantastic world created for The Lord of the Rings films. It closes on 11 January 2004.
Hundreds of artefacts from the movies including models, armoury and animatronics will feature alongside interactive computer and mechanical demonstrations of the cutting-edge technology used to bring the story to life.
The fascinating exhibition will transport visitors into the world of
Middle-earth, allowing them to become Hobbit-sized, see prosthetics and props including Hobbit feet and the contact lenses used to give the Orcs their unique look, giant models including Hobbiton Mill and Treebeard, and a dazzling array of armour and costumes from the films.
The exhibition culminates with a face-to-face encounter with the central icon from the films - the One Ring itself.
Tickets can be pre-booked on 0870 870 4868 between 8.30am and 6pm (booking fee applies) or at www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
No cameras, mobile phones or bags of any kind or are permitted inside this exhibition. We recommend that visitors leave these items at home. Although photography is not allowed, visitors can buy a souvenir photo of themselves transformed to the size of a Hobbit in the interactive scaling area.
Ticket Prices:
Monday - Friday: Adults £9.95, Children/Concessions £6.95
Saturday - Sunday: Adults £11.95, Children/Concessions £8.95
The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition has sold more advance tickets than the hugely successful Bond and Star Trek exhibitions put together.
The unprecedented demand means that while some tickets will be available at the door when the Science Museum exhibition opens on 16 September, advanced booking is now strongly advised to avoid disappointment.
The eagerly awaited family exhibition arrives before the final instalment of the film trilogy and will be the only chance for European fans to explore for themselves the fantastic world created for The Lord of the Rings films. It closes on 11 January 2004.
Hundreds of artefacts from the movies including models, armoury and animatronics will feature alongside interactive computer and mechanical demonstrations of the cutting-edge technology used to bring the story to life.
The fascinating exhibition will transport visitors into the world of
Middle-earth, allowing them to become Hobbit-sized, see prosthetics and props including Hobbit feet and the contact lenses used to give the Orcs their unique look, giant models including Hobbiton Mill and Treebeard, and a dazzling array of armour and costumes from the films.
The exhibition culminates with a face-to-face encounter with the central icon from the films - the One Ring itself.
Tickets can be pre-booked on 0870 870 4868 between 8.30am and 6pm (booking fee applies) or at www.sciencemuseum.org.uk
No cameras, mobile phones or bags of any kind or are permitted inside this exhibition. We recommend that visitors leave these items at home. Although photography is not allowed, visitors can buy a souvenir photo of themselves transformed to the size of a Hobbit in the interactive scaling area.
Ticket Prices:
Monday - Friday: Adults £9.95, Children/Concessions £6.95
Saturday - Sunday: Adults £11.95, Children/Concessions £8.95
Friday, August 15, 2003
MINISTER LAUNCHES SECOND ‘NEW EUROPE FILM SEASON’ TO TACKLE KNOWLEDGE GAP ON EU EXPANSION 9 September, 2003
The second ‘New Europe Film Season’ is a rare opportunity for the public to see a programme of critically acclaimed films from future EU countries. This showcase for under represented talent aims to boost awareness of the countries involved, by celebrating their achievements in film and highlighting the rich diversity they will bring to the EU.
Denis MacShane, Minister for Europe, will launch the ‘New Europe Film Season’ on 9 September at the Foreign Office. The season will then tour City Screen’s Picturehouse cinemas in London, Edinburgh, Brighton and Liverpool during September and October.
The films include Vizontele, which drew the largest crowds ever for a feature film in Turkey, Blind Spot (Slovenia) by award winning director Hanna AW Slak which has most recently been well received at the Edinburgh Festival and Good Hands (Estonia/Latvia), described as a ‘bona fide jewel from an unexpected source’.
Tony Jones, Director of City Screen, said: “City Screen is delighted to be working with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to present an exciting and varied selection of films. This season is a great opportunity to celebrate the quality and diversity of the continent’s film culture.”
Recent research shows that nearly half of the UK public cannot name a single one of the 13 countries in line to join the EU.
Denis MacShane said: Europe’s biggest ever expansion is less than a year away. This will mark the unification of Europe after decades of division. It will bring economic, social and cultural benefits to us all. Awareness of this historic event is growing, but still very low. We have a responsibility to make sure everyone in Britain is aware of our future neighbours and what difference they can make to our lives - and we to theirs.
“The New Europe Film Season will give people in cities around the UK the chance to appreciate the breadth of film-making talent across Europe. We share a long and great history with our future neighbours. They have a proud cultural heritage and have made major contributions to our own cultural development. What better way is there to celebrate the diversity and talent across Europe than through film?”
The second ‘New Europe Film Season’ is a rare opportunity for the public to see a programme of critically acclaimed films from future EU countries. This showcase for under represented talent aims to boost awareness of the countries involved, by celebrating their achievements in film and highlighting the rich diversity they will bring to the EU.
Denis MacShane, Minister for Europe, will launch the ‘New Europe Film Season’ on 9 September at the Foreign Office. The season will then tour City Screen’s Picturehouse cinemas in London, Edinburgh, Brighton and Liverpool during September and October.
The films include Vizontele, which drew the largest crowds ever for a feature film in Turkey, Blind Spot (Slovenia) by award winning director Hanna AW Slak which has most recently been well received at the Edinburgh Festival and Good Hands (Estonia/Latvia), described as a ‘bona fide jewel from an unexpected source’.
Tony Jones, Director of City Screen, said: “City Screen is delighted to be working with the Foreign and Commonwealth Office to present an exciting and varied selection of films. This season is a great opportunity to celebrate the quality and diversity of the continent’s film culture.”
Recent research shows that nearly half of the UK public cannot name a single one of the 13 countries in line to join the EU.
Denis MacShane said: Europe’s biggest ever expansion is less than a year away. This will mark the unification of Europe after decades of division. It will bring economic, social and cultural benefits to us all. Awareness of this historic event is growing, but still very low. We have a responsibility to make sure everyone in Britain is aware of our future neighbours and what difference they can make to our lives - and we to theirs.
“The New Europe Film Season will give people in cities around the UK the chance to appreciate the breadth of film-making talent across Europe. We share a long and great history with our future neighbours. They have a proud cultural heritage and have made major contributions to our own cultural development. What better way is there to celebrate the diversity and talent across Europe than through film?”
Tuesday, August 12, 2003
JVC displays HD images for ground-breaking The Actors Cut acting course
JVC is providing a DLA-QX1 projector to screen high definition images of a unique two-week Equity film-acting course named The Actors Cut. The course is to be led by distinguished actor, Denis Lawson and is co-ordinated by the Scottish Actors Studio. The course will commence on Monday, August 11th to Sunday, August 23rd at the Sadler's Wells Theatre.
Twenty professional actors will be given the once in a lifetime opportunity to gain practical experience, rehearse and perform leading film scripts, observed by other actors and industry professionals. The actors will be working with a professional film crew and world-renowned director of photography, Robin Vidgeon (Tomb Raiders, Fly 2, Memphis Belle).
During the course, actors will be filmed in HD. Assessment and critique of performance will be played back with the QX1 projecting on to a 20x30 ft screen in the main theatre at Sadlers Well's Theatre. The QXGA projector from JVC Professional has a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels and an extended contrast of more than 1000:1 and matches and exceeds the current quality
achieved by 35mm film. With an outstanding brightness of 7000 ANSI lumens, the DLA-QX1G projector delivers clear, sharp and film-like HD detail on a large screen. Situated in the audience will be two JVC colour plasma monitors. These monitors will mirror the images projected by the QX1.
"The course is a first of its kind to be run anywhere in the world. It is providing not only free training to professionals, it is the first course to be shot and critiqued in HD. We have had an overwhelming response from young and budding actors and are very pleased to have JVC on board" comments Andrew Byatt, Director, Scottish Actors Studio.
JVC is providing a DLA-QX1 projector to screen high definition images of a unique two-week Equity film-acting course named The Actors Cut. The course is to be led by distinguished actor, Denis Lawson and is co-ordinated by the Scottish Actors Studio. The course will commence on Monday, August 11th to Sunday, August 23rd at the Sadler's Wells Theatre.
Twenty professional actors will be given the once in a lifetime opportunity to gain practical experience, rehearse and perform leading film scripts, observed by other actors and industry professionals. The actors will be working with a professional film crew and world-renowned director of photography, Robin Vidgeon (Tomb Raiders, Fly 2, Memphis Belle).
During the course, actors will be filmed in HD. Assessment and critique of performance will be played back with the QX1 projecting on to a 20x30 ft screen in the main theatre at Sadlers Well's Theatre. The QXGA projector from JVC Professional has a resolution of 2048 x 1536 pixels and an extended contrast of more than 1000:1 and matches and exceeds the current quality
achieved by 35mm film. With an outstanding brightness of 7000 ANSI lumens, the DLA-QX1G projector delivers clear, sharp and film-like HD detail on a large screen. Situated in the audience will be two JVC colour plasma monitors. These monitors will mirror the images projected by the QX1.
"The course is a first of its kind to be run anywhere in the world. It is providing not only free training to professionals, it is the first course to be shot and critiqued in HD. We have had an overwhelming response from young and budding actors and are very pleased to have JVC on board" comments Andrew Byatt, Director, Scottish Actors Studio.
JVC introduces hand-held professional HD camcorder into European market
JVC is pleased to announce the world's first professional hand-held
camcorder with complete HD recording capabilities: the JY-HD10E. Programme makers on a limited budget, in such industries as events, education, broadcast, medical, corporate communications, advertising, and government, can now produce in high definition without having to invest significantly in new equipment.
This single CCD (1.18 million pixel, 16:9) professional camcorder offers the unique ability to record at various resolution modes. Bundled with the camera is MPEG Edit StudioTM Pro LE v1.0, a complete non-linear editing (NLE) software package that permits easy, frame-accurate editing of MPEG-2 footage. This complete editing package has been developed by KDDI.
Additional facilities make the JY-HD10E a total package with a wealth of features that makes the recording, editing, and archiving process very simple. JVC has introduced an optical image stabilizer system, which turns on and off at the flick of a switch, so videographers can capture quality images even in the most rugged conditions. The camcorder also comes complete with a high definition lens.
John Carpenter, general manager, marketing services comments,
"Traditionally, the cost to produce in HD has been prohibitive for most video professionals. JVC has responded to their needs by developing this compact, new, HD professional camcorder that enables them to embark on the growing European HD production market.
He adds, "The introduction of this camcorder further solidifies our position as the leading provider of innovative, professional video equipment in the digital age."
www.jvcproeurope.com
JVC is pleased to announce the world's first professional hand-held
camcorder with complete HD recording capabilities: the JY-HD10E. Programme makers on a limited budget, in such industries as events, education, broadcast, medical, corporate communications, advertising, and government, can now produce in high definition without having to invest significantly in new equipment.
This single CCD (1.18 million pixel, 16:9) professional camcorder offers the unique ability to record at various resolution modes. Bundled with the camera is MPEG Edit StudioTM Pro LE v1.0, a complete non-linear editing (NLE) software package that permits easy, frame-accurate editing of MPEG-2 footage. This complete editing package has been developed by KDDI.
Additional facilities make the JY-HD10E a total package with a wealth of features that makes the recording, editing, and archiving process very simple. JVC has introduced an optical image stabilizer system, which turns on and off at the flick of a switch, so videographers can capture quality images even in the most rugged conditions. The camcorder also comes complete with a high definition lens.
John Carpenter, general manager, marketing services comments,
"Traditionally, the cost to produce in HD has been prohibitive for most video professionals. JVC has responded to their needs by developing this compact, new, HD professional camcorder that enables them to embark on the growing European HD production market.
He adds, "The introduction of this camcorder further solidifies our position as the leading provider of innovative, professional video equipment in the digital age."
www.jvcproeurope.com
Monday, August 11, 2003
ASOLOARTFILMFESTIVAL
22 - 28 SETTEMBRE 2003
Asolo - Montebelluna
Among the 363 films representing 31 countries, 59 works were admitted to the competition.
The 2003 edition of the AsoloArtFilmFestival will be held in Asolo, at the Teatro E. Duse and at the Centro Culturale La Fornace as well as in Montebelluna, at the Cinema Italia Eden, from 22 to 28 September. The festival is divided into four sections: Films on Art, Artists’ Lives, Video/Computer Art, Experimental Productions made by recognised film schools, special secondary schools and universities.
In addition to the prestigious GRAN PREMIO ASOLO for the best cinematographic work and to the PREMIO SPECIALE GIAN FRANCESCO MALIPIERO for the best sound track, the international Jury will award the following prizes to the four categories:
Premio Asolo For the best film on art
Premio Asolo For the best film on artists’ lives
Premio Asolo For the best video/computer art work
Premio Asolo For the best experimental production
AsoloArtFilmFestival website:
www.asolofilmfestival.it
22 - 28 SETTEMBRE 2003
Asolo - Montebelluna
Among the 363 films representing 31 countries, 59 works were admitted to the competition.
The 2003 edition of the AsoloArtFilmFestival will be held in Asolo, at the Teatro E. Duse and at the Centro Culturale La Fornace as well as in Montebelluna, at the Cinema Italia Eden, from 22 to 28 September. The festival is divided into four sections: Films on Art, Artists’ Lives, Video/Computer Art, Experimental Productions made by recognised film schools, special secondary schools and universities.
In addition to the prestigious GRAN PREMIO ASOLO for the best cinematographic work and to the PREMIO SPECIALE GIAN FRANCESCO MALIPIERO for the best sound track, the international Jury will award the following prizes to the four categories:
Premio Asolo For the best film on art
Premio Asolo For the best film on artists’ lives
Premio Asolo For the best video/computer art work
Premio Asolo For the best experimental production
AsoloArtFilmFestival website:
www.asolofilmfestival.it
PINK PICTURES PLAY PROUD IN MANCHESTER
Gay and lesbian cinema is set to make its mark amongst a summer of frivolity in the north at the 3rd Manchester Lesbian & Gay Film Festival.
After the last two phenomenally successful annual events, this year’s line-up of 23 films boasts a heady mix of groundbreaking drama, riotous comedy, touching love stories and glorious camp classics.
With all eyes on Manchester this summer, UCI Cinemas hope to contribute to the success of the city’s first Europride by subsidising the entry price for all films in the festival to just £2.95.
Once again, Manchester landmark UCI thefilmworks will welcome a cross section of locals and visitors to experience the cream of gay and lesbian film, some of which will be screened for the first time in the city.
Highlights of this year’s festival include a wild selection of the very best new lesbian and gay films from across the globe and two sexy packages of short films, highlighting a commitment to new filmmakers and the short film industry. Camp dazzling classics like Victor/Victoria and Cabaret are back on the big screen, alongside a lesbian literary coupling of The Hours and Mrs Dalloway.
The festival programme includes stunning new features like Blue Gate Crossing, Suddenly, Luster, and Food of Love. Enjoying an exclusive preview at the festival, Camp is one film tipped for box office success when the “Fame meets Beaches” comedy-musical gets a nationwide release in September.
The two-week film-fest is the longest of its kind in the UK and opens on Friday 15th August with a spectacular, star-studded gala screening of Mango Soufflé. The following night sees legendary flop Showgirls treated to a glam-and-glitter screening, with anyone dressed in ‘showgirls’ couture receiving free entry to the film.
Pre-release buzz has already started around the festival’s closing film Party Monster, the true story of New York clubbing legend Michael Alig, starring Macaulay Culkin, Chloe Sevigny and Marilyn Manson. The two-week festival will come to a close with an exclusive Party Monster-themed club event at the popular Canal Street lounge bar Poptastic Barbelow on Thursday 28 August.
Andrew Woodyatt, Film Marketing Manager at UCI Cinemas, comments:
“The films featured will entertain, thrill, shock, provoke discussion and show the world exactly what queer cinema has to offer.
“We couldn’t be happier with the selection we’ve secured and we’re hoping that both visitors and Mancunians alike will support the festival and enable us to return to the city year after year.”
Gay and lesbian cinema is set to make its mark amongst a summer of frivolity in the north at the 3rd Manchester Lesbian & Gay Film Festival.
After the last two phenomenally successful annual events, this year’s line-up of 23 films boasts a heady mix of groundbreaking drama, riotous comedy, touching love stories and glorious camp classics.
With all eyes on Manchester this summer, UCI Cinemas hope to contribute to the success of the city’s first Europride by subsidising the entry price for all films in the festival to just £2.95.
Once again, Manchester landmark UCI thefilmworks will welcome a cross section of locals and visitors to experience the cream of gay and lesbian film, some of which will be screened for the first time in the city.
Highlights of this year’s festival include a wild selection of the very best new lesbian and gay films from across the globe and two sexy packages of short films, highlighting a commitment to new filmmakers and the short film industry. Camp dazzling classics like Victor/Victoria and Cabaret are back on the big screen, alongside a lesbian literary coupling of The Hours and Mrs Dalloway.
The festival programme includes stunning new features like Blue Gate Crossing, Suddenly, Luster, and Food of Love. Enjoying an exclusive preview at the festival, Camp is one film tipped for box office success when the “Fame meets Beaches” comedy-musical gets a nationwide release in September.
The two-week film-fest is the longest of its kind in the UK and opens on Friday 15th August with a spectacular, star-studded gala screening of Mango Soufflé. The following night sees legendary flop Showgirls treated to a glam-and-glitter screening, with anyone dressed in ‘showgirls’ couture receiving free entry to the film.
Pre-release buzz has already started around the festival’s closing film Party Monster, the true story of New York clubbing legend Michael Alig, starring Macaulay Culkin, Chloe Sevigny and Marilyn Manson. The two-week festival will come to a close with an exclusive Party Monster-themed club event at the popular Canal Street lounge bar Poptastic Barbelow on Thursday 28 August.
Andrew Woodyatt, Film Marketing Manager at UCI Cinemas, comments:
“The films featured will entertain, thrill, shock, provoke discussion and show the world exactly what queer cinema has to offer.
“We couldn’t be happier with the selection we’ve secured and we’re hoping that both visitors and Mancunians alike will support the festival and enable us to return to the city year after year.”
Friday, August 01, 2003
SPELLBOUND FILM GALA
CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF HITCHCOCK:SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION
AUGUST 13TH 2003
To celebrate the 104th birthday of revered director, Alfred Hitchcock, County Hall Gallery is holding a special screening of the
1945 classic Spellbound (starring Ingrid Bergman and Gregory Peck) followed by a discussion panel on the film.
Expert comment and analysis will be provided by Emma Cochrane (Contributing Editor, Empire), Charles Barr (Author of
Vertigo), and Simon Hunter (Director of modern thriller, Lighthouse).
County Hall Gallery is the permanent home of the monumental canvas Spellbound, a Dalί painting commissioned for the
dream sequences in the movie and a highlight of the Dalà Universe exhibition, Europe’s most important surrealist
collection.
Film Gala – Spellbound (1945, Alfred Hitchcock)
- August 13th 2003
- Doors open 7pm, Screening 8pm
- Tickets £16.95 at County Hall Gallery Box Office (Limited availability) or on www.ticketweb.co.uk
A SPECIAL SCREENING
Visitors will be given the opportunity to see the film in the special screening room at County Hall Gallery, accompanied by
a private viewing of the Dalί Universe exhibition and Spellbound canvas, as well as a complimentary bar and nibbles.
In addition, a special panel of experts have been brought together to discuss the film and its director. Charles Barr will
chair the event looking at how Spellbound fits into Hitchcock’s career, referring to his interests in psychology and art,
notably modern art. Emma Cochrane will be examining the history and myths surrounding the film itself - throwing in
some movie trivia about the making of the film.
ABOUT SPELLBOUND
This Oscar-nominated masterpiece was the first film to explore psychoanalysis in mainstream Hollywood cinema.
When the head of a mental asylum retires and is replaced with the renowned Dr Edwards (Gregory Peck), it soon
becomes apparent he is an imposter and amnesiac. Ingrid Bergman plays the psychiatrist who falls in love with Edwards
and who eventually risks everything to run away with him to help solve the dark mystery that surrounds the mysterious
doctor.
Hitchcock commissioned Dalà to design the magnificent Spellbound canvas for the dream sequence for the film, as well
as the sets featuring a bizarre set of tables and chairs with human legs.
CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF HITCHCOCK:SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION
AUGUST 13TH 2003
To celebrate the 104th birthday of revered director, Alfred Hitchcock, County Hall Gallery is holding a special screening of the
1945 classic Spellbound (starring Ingrid Bergman and Gregory Peck) followed by a discussion panel on the film.
Expert comment and analysis will be provided by Emma Cochrane (Contributing Editor, Empire), Charles Barr (Author of
Vertigo), and Simon Hunter (Director of modern thriller, Lighthouse).
County Hall Gallery is the permanent home of the monumental canvas Spellbound, a Dalί painting commissioned for the
dream sequences in the movie and a highlight of the Dalà Universe exhibition, Europe’s most important surrealist
collection.
Film Gala – Spellbound (1945, Alfred Hitchcock)
- August 13th 2003
- Doors open 7pm, Screening 8pm
- Tickets £16.95 at County Hall Gallery Box Office (Limited availability) or on www.ticketweb.co.uk
A SPECIAL SCREENING
Visitors will be given the opportunity to see the film in the special screening room at County Hall Gallery, accompanied by
a private viewing of the Dalί Universe exhibition and Spellbound canvas, as well as a complimentary bar and nibbles.
In addition, a special panel of experts have been brought together to discuss the film and its director. Charles Barr will
chair the event looking at how Spellbound fits into Hitchcock’s career, referring to his interests in psychology and art,
notably modern art. Emma Cochrane will be examining the history and myths surrounding the film itself - throwing in
some movie trivia about the making of the film.
ABOUT SPELLBOUND
This Oscar-nominated masterpiece was the first film to explore psychoanalysis in mainstream Hollywood cinema.
When the head of a mental asylum retires and is replaced with the renowned Dr Edwards (Gregory Peck), it soon
becomes apparent he is an imposter and amnesiac. Ingrid Bergman plays the psychiatrist who falls in love with Edwards
and who eventually risks everything to run away with him to help solve the dark mystery that surrounds the mysterious
doctor.
Hitchcock commissioned Dalà to design the magnificent Spellbound canvas for the dream sequence for the film, as well
as the sets featuring a bizarre set of tables and chairs with human legs.
SPELLBOUND FILM GALA
CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF HITCHCOCK:SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION
AUGUST 13TH 2003
To celebrate the 104th birthday of revered director, Alfred Hitchcock, County Hall Gallery is holding a special screening of the
1945 classic Spellbound (starring Ingrid Bergman and Gregory Peck) followed by a discussion panel on the film.
Expert comment and analysis will be provided by Emma Cochrane (Contributing Editor, Empire), Charles Barr (Author of
Vertigo), and Simon Hunter (Director of modern thriller, Lighthouse).
County Hall Gallery is the permanent home of the monumental canvas Spellbound, a Dalί painting commissioned for the
dream sequences in the movie and a highlight of the Dalà Universe exhibition, Europe’s most important surrealist
collection.
Film Gala – Spellbound (1945, Alfred Hitchcock)
- August 13th 2003
- Doors open 7pm, Screening 8pm
- Tickets £16.95 at County Hall Gallery Box Office (Limited availability) or on www.ticketweb.co.uk
A SPECIAL SCREENING
Visitors will be given the opportunity to see the film in the special screening room at County Hall Gallery, accompanied by
a private viewing of the Dalί Universe exhibition and Spellbound canvas, as well as a complimentary bar and nibbles.
In addition, a special panel of experts have been brought together to discuss the film and its director. Charles Barr will
chair the event looking at how Spellbound fits into Hitchcock’s career, referring to his interests in psychology and art,
notably modern art. Emma Cochrane will be examining the history and myths surrounding the film itself - throwing in
some movie trivia about the making of the film.
ABOUT SPELLBOUND
This Oscar-nominated masterpiece was the first film to explore psychoanalysis in mainstream Hollywood cinema.
When the head of a mental asylum retires and is replaced with the renowned Dr Edwards (Gregory Peck), it soon
becomes apparent he is an imposter and amnesiac. Ingrid Bergman plays the psychiatrist who falls in love with Edwards
and who eventually risks everything to run away with him to help solve the dark mystery that surrounds the mysterious
doctor.
Hitchcock commissioned Dalà to design the magnificent Spellbound canvas for the dream sequence for the film, as well
as the sets featuring a bizarre set of tables and chairs with human legs.
CELEBRATING THE LEGACY OF HITCHCOCK:SCREENING AND PANEL DISCUSSION
AUGUST 13TH 2003
To celebrate the 104th birthday of revered director, Alfred Hitchcock, County Hall Gallery is holding a special screening of the
1945 classic Spellbound (starring Ingrid Bergman and Gregory Peck) followed by a discussion panel on the film.
Expert comment and analysis will be provided by Emma Cochrane (Contributing Editor, Empire), Charles Barr (Author of
Vertigo), and Simon Hunter (Director of modern thriller, Lighthouse).
County Hall Gallery is the permanent home of the monumental canvas Spellbound, a Dalί painting commissioned for the
dream sequences in the movie and a highlight of the Dalà Universe exhibition, Europe’s most important surrealist
collection.
Film Gala – Spellbound (1945, Alfred Hitchcock)
- August 13th 2003
- Doors open 7pm, Screening 8pm
- Tickets £16.95 at County Hall Gallery Box Office (Limited availability) or on www.ticketweb.co.uk
A SPECIAL SCREENING
Visitors will be given the opportunity to see the film in the special screening room at County Hall Gallery, accompanied by
a private viewing of the Dalί Universe exhibition and Spellbound canvas, as well as a complimentary bar and nibbles.
In addition, a special panel of experts have been brought together to discuss the film and its director. Charles Barr will
chair the event looking at how Spellbound fits into Hitchcock’s career, referring to his interests in psychology and art,
notably modern art. Emma Cochrane will be examining the history and myths surrounding the film itself - throwing in
some movie trivia about the making of the film.
ABOUT SPELLBOUND
This Oscar-nominated masterpiece was the first film to explore psychoanalysis in mainstream Hollywood cinema.
When the head of a mental asylum retires and is replaced with the renowned Dr Edwards (Gregory Peck), it soon
becomes apparent he is an imposter and amnesiac. Ingrid Bergman plays the psychiatrist who falls in love with Edwards
and who eventually risks everything to run away with him to help solve the dark mystery that surrounds the mysterious
doctor.
Hitchcock commissioned Dalà to design the magnificent Spellbound canvas for the dream sequence for the film, as well
as the sets featuring a bizarre set of tables and chairs with human legs.
Tuesday, July 29, 2003
Hull Film Festival
Hull International Short Film Festival (15-19 October 2003) is the leading short film event in the North. This year organisers are preparing a bold new project: Festival Market.
In the context of the third Hull film festival, featuring screenings and events of some of the best short film around the globe, organisers have developed a two-day market platform to engage and address the key issues facing short film production and distribution.
The Festival Market will pull together key industry players to debate the big questions about the short film's role in the UK film industry. What are the industry perceptions and approaches to the short? Is it just a training ground for emerging filmmakers, a calling card for wannabe feature directors? How do these approaches compromise the capacity of the short film as a creative platform? Is the 10-minute straitjacket a formula for
success or is it endangering the whole of short film production?
The Festival Market will also feature: presentations on regional industry developments, information on training opportunities, exciting new company initiatives, exhibitions and literature exchange and screenwriting masterclasses.
For more information visit their website at:
www.hullfilm.co.uk
Hull International Short Film Festival (15-19 October 2003) is the leading short film event in the North. This year organisers are preparing a bold new project: Festival Market.
In the context of the third Hull film festival, featuring screenings and events of some of the best short film around the globe, organisers have developed a two-day market platform to engage and address the key issues facing short film production and distribution.
The Festival Market will pull together key industry players to debate the big questions about the short film's role in the UK film industry. What are the industry perceptions and approaches to the short? Is it just a training ground for emerging filmmakers, a calling card for wannabe feature directors? How do these approaches compromise the capacity of the short film as a creative platform? Is the 10-minute straitjacket a formula for
success or is it endangering the whole of short film production?
The Festival Market will also feature: presentations on regional industry developments, information on training opportunities, exciting new company initiatives, exhibitions and literature exchange and screenwriting masterclasses.
For more information visit their website at:
www.hullfilm.co.uk
Monday, July 28, 2003
The 12th Chichester Film Festival
21st August - 7th September 2003
The South Coast Cinematic Event of the Year
Festival Booking opens Monday 4th August at 11am...
The Film Festival is the highlight of the Chichester Cinema’s calendar and we are hoping to build on last years success, when over 5,000 people came to see films during the 18 days of the Festival.
This year, we are very proud to open and close the 12th Chichester Film Festival with two important UK productions - Jim Sheridan’s moving In America (21st August) and the hilarious Calendar Girls. (7th September). Sandwiched between these two prestigious films will be over 70 films, including 12 UK premieres and 25 previews of world cinema including: From Australia (the much anticipated Ned Kelly), UK (The Four Features), East-Asia (The Grudge) and the US (Gods and Generals).
There will be retrospectives of the work of leading film-makers (Luchino Visconti and Bertrand Tavernier), as well as themed programming such as the Anthony Minghella Triple Bill and a look at the four films based on Patricia Highsmith’s Ripley books. A series of discussions and Q&A sessions with visiting producers, directors and actors will support the programming. There will also be a repeat of the highly successful International Short Film Competition.
Previews
Angel on the Right (Tadjikistan)
Bad Guy (South Korea)
Black and White (Aus)
Blind Spot: Hitler’s Secretary (Austria)
Blue Gate Crossing (Taiwan)
The Boy David Story (UK)
Calendar Girls (UK)
Crackerjack (Aus)
Food of Love (Spain/Germany)
Holes (US)
House of 1000 Corpses (US)
Jeremy Hardy v Israeli Army (UK)
Love You Baby (Spain)
Luster (US)
The Man Who Sued God (Aus)
Ma Vie (France)
Mango Soufflé (India)
Raising Victor Vargas (US)
Scorched (US)
Small Cuts (France)
Spellbound (US)
The Three Marias (Brazil)
Time of the Wolf (France)
Together With You (China)
Winged Migration (France)
Special Events
Selective retrospectives on LUCHINO VISCONTI
and BERTRAND TAVERNIER
17th London Lesbian and Gay
Film Festival on Tour
East-Asian Cinema
late night eXtreme cinema
World Cinema
Previews and Premieres
Family Matinees
Ripley’s Talents
Anthony Minghella Triple Bill
Discussions, talks and personal
appearances of filmmakers
International Short Film Competition
Premieres
Camp (US)
Crimson Gold (Iran)
Cypher (US)
The Grudge (Japan)
Horse Play (Aus)
The Hours of the Day (Spain)
In America (UK)
Ned Kelly (Aus)
Take Away (Aus)
Triggerman (UK)
Wilbur (UK)
Young Adam (UK)
For more information go to:
www.chichestercinema.org
Box Office: 01243 786650
21st August - 7th September 2003
The South Coast Cinematic Event of the Year
Festival Booking opens Monday 4th August at 11am...
The Film Festival is the highlight of the Chichester Cinema’s calendar and we are hoping to build on last years success, when over 5,000 people came to see films during the 18 days of the Festival.
This year, we are very proud to open and close the 12th Chichester Film Festival with two important UK productions - Jim Sheridan’s moving In America (21st August) and the hilarious Calendar Girls. (7th September). Sandwiched between these two prestigious films will be over 70 films, including 12 UK premieres and 25 previews of world cinema including: From Australia (the much anticipated Ned Kelly), UK (The Four Features), East-Asia (The Grudge) and the US (Gods and Generals).
There will be retrospectives of the work of leading film-makers (Luchino Visconti and Bertrand Tavernier), as well as themed programming such as the Anthony Minghella Triple Bill and a look at the four films based on Patricia Highsmith’s Ripley books. A series of discussions and Q&A sessions with visiting producers, directors and actors will support the programming. There will also be a repeat of the highly successful International Short Film Competition.
Previews
Angel on the Right (Tadjikistan)
Bad Guy (South Korea)
Black and White (Aus)
Blind Spot: Hitler’s Secretary (Austria)
Blue Gate Crossing (Taiwan)
The Boy David Story (UK)
Calendar Girls (UK)
Crackerjack (Aus)
Food of Love (Spain/Germany)
Holes (US)
House of 1000 Corpses (US)
Jeremy Hardy v Israeli Army (UK)
Love You Baby (Spain)
Luster (US)
The Man Who Sued God (Aus)
Ma Vie (France)
Mango Soufflé (India)
Raising Victor Vargas (US)
Scorched (US)
Small Cuts (France)
Spellbound (US)
The Three Marias (Brazil)
Time of the Wolf (France)
Together With You (China)
Winged Migration (France)
Special Events
Selective retrospectives on LUCHINO VISCONTI
and BERTRAND TAVERNIER
17th London Lesbian and Gay
Film Festival on Tour
East-Asian Cinema
late night eXtreme cinema
World Cinema
Previews and Premieres
Family Matinees
Ripley’s Talents
Anthony Minghella Triple Bill
Discussions, talks and personal
appearances of filmmakers
International Short Film Competition
Premieres
Camp (US)
Crimson Gold (Iran)
Cypher (US)
The Grudge (Japan)
Horse Play (Aus)
The Hours of the Day (Spain)
In America (UK)
Ned Kelly (Aus)
Take Away (Aus)
Triggerman (UK)
Wilbur (UK)
Young Adam (UK)
For more information go to:
www.chichestercinema.org
Box Office: 01243 786650
Over £1million awarded to talented North West film makers
The North West’s most promising film makers, scriptwriters and media development organisations are celebrating after being awarded over £1million funding through North West Vision.
Since April 2002 North West Vision the TV, Film and Moving image Development Agency for englandsnorthwest has received 291 lottery applications with 93 being successful. The funding from lottery funding and treasury money has been a tremendous benefit to the region not just for film makers but for businesses and cultural organisation’s with filming production generating millions for the local economy.
Of the total £1million, £530,000 has been allocated to key partner organisations, including the Cornerhouse in Manchester; WFA based in Trafford and First Take in Liverpool. Filmmakers and creative media cultural organisations have benefited from the remaining £470,000.
In the recent round of lottery funding over £140,000 was awarded to 27 out of a total of 106 applicants. The money will be spent making innovative films, organising exciting media events, and diverse film festivals. To date the funding has been a fantastic way of helping to develop and promote the creative talent in the region and put the North West on the International Media map.
Alice Morrison, Chief Executive for North West Vision said:
“The wealth of talent that we have in the North West is overwhelming and North West Vision is extremely proud to be able to offer exciting opportunities and support for new and emerging film makers in the region. North West Vision is passionate about the region as a media destination and a vibrant, innovative cultural centre. The growth of the film making industry will have a positive knock on effect on the sustainable growth of the media industry and tourism and business development in the North West as a whole”.
Brief Information on recent round of allocated Funding
Promising Manchester Producer Mike Ogden has set up a number of challenging short film projects for North West Vision over the past year. Mike who is originally from Salford has been working in TV for over ten years. Since making his first award winning short film ‘Me, You and the Dead’ for North West Vision in 2002, Mike has gone on to full time directing for Mersey TV. His current projects for North West Vision include ‘Small World’ a film about a group of semi unrelated characters who sort out their lives through a self help book and ‘Pots and Pans’ a comedy that explores the feelings of friendship and childhood.
‘Script top Screen is a Liverpool based pro-active project that North West Vision is proud to support. It is run by BAFTA North and will run a series of events that pull together the creative teams of the North West’s best Network drama’s such as Clocking Off and Cops, to show clips and discuss the creative process when getting a programme from script to screen.
Kendal Mountain Film Festival is one of the best Film Festivals in the world. It attracts hundreds of visitors from all over the world. This year’s festival will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first ascent of Everest with many guests from the mountain climbing profession. The festival will screen features, shorts, documentaries, IMAX and will run an education programme. The BBC and North West Media will run the ‘Filming Extreme’ film school. This is an annual event at which the BBC provides workshops and support to encourage young and aspiring filmmakers to explore any mountain subjects, culture, sport and the environment.
All funded projects and events are set in a variety of North West locations including Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cumbria, Cheshire and Lancashire.
The North West’s most promising film makers, scriptwriters and media development organisations are celebrating after being awarded over £1million funding through North West Vision.
Since April 2002 North West Vision the TV, Film and Moving image Development Agency for englandsnorthwest has received 291 lottery applications with 93 being successful. The funding from lottery funding and treasury money has been a tremendous benefit to the region not just for film makers but for businesses and cultural organisation’s with filming production generating millions for the local economy.
Of the total £1million, £530,000 has been allocated to key partner organisations, including the Cornerhouse in Manchester; WFA based in Trafford and First Take in Liverpool. Filmmakers and creative media cultural organisations have benefited from the remaining £470,000.
In the recent round of lottery funding over £140,000 was awarded to 27 out of a total of 106 applicants. The money will be spent making innovative films, organising exciting media events, and diverse film festivals. To date the funding has been a fantastic way of helping to develop and promote the creative talent in the region and put the North West on the International Media map.
Alice Morrison, Chief Executive for North West Vision said:
“The wealth of talent that we have in the North West is overwhelming and North West Vision is extremely proud to be able to offer exciting opportunities and support for new and emerging film makers in the region. North West Vision is passionate about the region as a media destination and a vibrant, innovative cultural centre. The growth of the film making industry will have a positive knock on effect on the sustainable growth of the media industry and tourism and business development in the North West as a whole”.
Brief Information on recent round of allocated Funding
Promising Manchester Producer Mike Ogden has set up a number of challenging short film projects for North West Vision over the past year. Mike who is originally from Salford has been working in TV for over ten years. Since making his first award winning short film ‘Me, You and the Dead’ for North West Vision in 2002, Mike has gone on to full time directing for Mersey TV. His current projects for North West Vision include ‘Small World’ a film about a group of semi unrelated characters who sort out their lives through a self help book and ‘Pots and Pans’ a comedy that explores the feelings of friendship and childhood.
‘Script top Screen is a Liverpool based pro-active project that North West Vision is proud to support. It is run by BAFTA North and will run a series of events that pull together the creative teams of the North West’s best Network drama’s such as Clocking Off and Cops, to show clips and discuss the creative process when getting a programme from script to screen.
Kendal Mountain Film Festival is one of the best Film Festivals in the world. It attracts hundreds of visitors from all over the world. This year’s festival will celebrate the 50th anniversary of the first ascent of Everest with many guests from the mountain climbing profession. The festival will screen features, shorts, documentaries, IMAX and will run an education programme. The BBC and North West Media will run the ‘Filming Extreme’ film school. This is an annual event at which the BBC provides workshops and support to encourage young and aspiring filmmakers to explore any mountain subjects, culture, sport and the environment.
All funded projects and events are set in a variety of North West locations including Greater Manchester, Merseyside, Cumbria, Cheshire and Lancashire.
Friday, July 25, 2003
The Futurist Cinema Company presents
MOVING CONVERSATIONS
STAND UP TO CELLULOID
Six Moving Conversations about comedy followed by a classic comedy feature 4,7,11,14,18,21 August, 6.30pm, Warner Village Cinema, Edinburgh.
Moving Conversations is making six appearances at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Each night we will have three different comedians (some local, some from out of town) who will identify their essential comedy movies and discuss the finer points of stand up comedy i.e. how to cope with abusive punters or how to deliver a contemporary routine without swearing.
The comedy line-up includes:
Gordon Southern [BBC1’s Stand Up Show & R4’s Cheese Shop]
Noel James [Skitzaphrantic]
Will Smith [Will Smith is Much Obliged]
Stephen Grant [Stephen Grant’s Route 1]
The 'classic' (and we use the word advisedly) movies on show are as follows:
4th Le Diner de Cons (1998)
7th Being John Malkovitch (1999)
11th Blazing Saddles (1974)
14th Groundhog Day (1993)
18th Wayne's World (1992)
21st Ferris Buellers Day Off (1986)
Tickets cost a Fringetastic £7.50 (£5.50 concession) and can be obtained at the Fringe box office or via the Warner Village Cinema (Tel: 0131 557 3964).
Note that we are running a 2 for 1 offer on the 4th and a group discount applies for those purchasing 10 tickets or more for any of the shows.
MOVING CONVERSATIONS
STAND UP TO CELLULOID
Six Moving Conversations about comedy followed by a classic comedy feature 4,7,11,14,18,21 August, 6.30pm, Warner Village Cinema, Edinburgh.
Moving Conversations is making six appearances at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Each night we will have three different comedians (some local, some from out of town) who will identify their essential comedy movies and discuss the finer points of stand up comedy i.e. how to cope with abusive punters or how to deliver a contemporary routine without swearing.
The comedy line-up includes:
Gordon Southern [BBC1’s Stand Up Show & R4’s Cheese Shop]
Noel James [Skitzaphrantic]
Will Smith [Will Smith is Much Obliged]
Stephen Grant [Stephen Grant’s Route 1]
The 'classic' (and we use the word advisedly) movies on show are as follows:
4th Le Diner de Cons (1998)
7th Being John Malkovitch (1999)
11th Blazing Saddles (1974)
14th Groundhog Day (1993)
18th Wayne's World (1992)
21st Ferris Buellers Day Off (1986)
Tickets cost a Fringetastic £7.50 (£5.50 concession) and can be obtained at the Fringe box office or via the Warner Village Cinema (Tel: 0131 557 3964).
Note that we are running a 2 for 1 offer on the 4th and a group discount applies for those purchasing 10 tickets or more for any of the shows.
OFT REVIEWS FILM DISTRIBUTORS ORDERS AND UNDERTAKINGS
Orders covering the distribution of films are to be reviewed by the OFT.
The Orders and undertakings followed reports by the then Monopolies and Mergers Commission (now the Competition Commission) and were designed to remedy restrictions on competition. These reviews are the beginning of a programme of reviews of Orders and undertakings imposed under the monopoly provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1973.
The OFT has a duty to keep such orders and undertakings under review.
Film Orders
The film Orders resulted from MMC monopoly reports in 1983 and 1994 into the supply of films in cinemas, which found that a number of practices of the large distributors and cinema chains restricted
competition.
The Orders ban exclusive agreements between distributors and cinemas which cover more than one film, and prevent distributors from imposing lengthy minimum exhibition periods on cinemas.
The review is expected to be completed by April 2004.
Full details of the Film Orders were given in DTI press notice
96/942 issued on 16 December 1996.
PUBLIC enquiries: 0845 7224499 enquiries@oft.gov.uk OFT reports and consumer information leaflets are available free from: OFT, PO Box 366, Hayes UB3 1XB 0870 6060321 oft@eclogistics.co.uk
Orders covering the distribution of films are to be reviewed by the OFT.
The Orders and undertakings followed reports by the then Monopolies and Mergers Commission (now the Competition Commission) and were designed to remedy restrictions on competition. These reviews are the beginning of a programme of reviews of Orders and undertakings imposed under the monopoly provisions of the Fair Trading Act 1973.
The OFT has a duty to keep such orders and undertakings under review.
Film Orders
The film Orders resulted from MMC monopoly reports in 1983 and 1994 into the supply of films in cinemas, which found that a number of practices of the large distributors and cinema chains restricted
competition.
The Orders ban exclusive agreements between distributors and cinemas which cover more than one film, and prevent distributors from imposing lengthy minimum exhibition periods on cinemas.
The review is expected to be completed by April 2004.
Full details of the Film Orders were given in DTI press notice
96/942 issued on 16 December 1996.
PUBLIC enquiries: 0845 7224499 enquiries@oft.gov.uk OFT reports and consumer information leaflets are available free from: OFT, PO Box 366, Hayes UB3 1XB 0870 6060321 oft@eclogistics.co.uk
Thursday, July 24, 2003
Afterlife (New Found Films)
At the Edinburgh International Film Festival 2003
Afterlife is a beautifully crafted, delightfully scripted film from first time feature-film makers Gabriel Films.
Written by Andrea Gibb, directed by Alison Peebles and produced by Catherine Aitken, the film stars Kevin McKidd, Lindsay Duncan, Shirley Henderson and introducing newcomer Paula Sage.
The film is centred around a young determined, cut-throat journalist, Kenny (McKidd), who is on the verge of a major career breakthrough. His date with destiny and America, is interrupted by a trip home during Easter to visit his mother May (Duncan), after she suffers a fall and injures herself, and his sister Roberta (Sage) who has Downs Syndrome.
Two very different siblings. Two very different lives. But everything is about to change when tragedy strikes and they are forced to reassess their future lives.
Afterlife (World Premiere) Tuesday 19 August - 8.30pm at UGC Fountain Park, Dundee Street, Edinburgh, EH11.
Afterlife (Repeat public performance) Thursday 21 August - 8.30pm at location above.
At the Edinburgh International Film Festival 2003
Afterlife is a beautifully crafted, delightfully scripted film from first time feature-film makers Gabriel Films.
Written by Andrea Gibb, directed by Alison Peebles and produced by Catherine Aitken, the film stars Kevin McKidd, Lindsay Duncan, Shirley Henderson and introducing newcomer Paula Sage.
The film is centred around a young determined, cut-throat journalist, Kenny (McKidd), who is on the verge of a major career breakthrough. His date with destiny and America, is interrupted by a trip home during Easter to visit his mother May (Duncan), after she suffers a fall and injures herself, and his sister Roberta (Sage) who has Downs Syndrome.
Two very different siblings. Two very different lives. But everything is about to change when tragedy strikes and they are forced to reassess their future lives.
Afterlife (World Premiere) Tuesday 19 August - 8.30pm at UGC Fountain Park, Dundee Street, Edinburgh, EH11.
Afterlife (Repeat public performance) Thursday 21 August - 8.30pm at location above.
Friday, July 18, 2003
ONCE UPON A TIME IN THE MIDLANDS
A contemporary British comedy with a western twist, Once Upon a Time in the Midlands is available to buy on video and DVD from 29 September by FilmFour/VCI. The third feature film from the industry respected, Midlands-born director Shane Meadows features an all-star Brit cast including Robert Carlyle, Ricky Tomlinson, Kathy Burke and Rhys Ifans. This critically acclaimed movie also packs in hilarious cameos from Vanessa Feltz, Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer.
Set in a Midlands suburb, this comedy drama is a poignant insight into the lives of live-in partners Dek and Shirley. Together they look after Marlene, Shirley's only daughter by first-love and all round jack-the-lad Jimmy (Robert Carlyle).
The film starts with dull Dek proposing to Shirley live on 'Face to Feltz'. Jimmy sees the proposal on TV and it isn't long before he rides into town to win back the love of his life…little does he know he faces a real, pistols-at-dawn, family standoff.
Baseball bats and Ford Sierras replace rifles and wagons in this story of lost love, honesty and revenge, but as with all great Westerns, good triumphs over evil to win the day - all to the sound of a country-style, guitar-twanging sound-track!
First released to cinemas nationwide in September 2002, Once Upon a Time in the Midlands, was nominated for the Grand Prix Asturias at the 2002 Gijon International Film Festival. It is released on video and DVD from 29 September. Presented as a Double Disk set, the DVD also incorporates, early rehearsal footage, 'Once Upon A Time Around Britain' a hilarious video-diary/documentary on the film's promotional tour, the full 'Face To Feltz' episode, deleted scenes and much more.
A contemporary British comedy with a western twist, Once Upon a Time in the Midlands is available to buy on video and DVD from 29 September by FilmFour/VCI. The third feature film from the industry respected, Midlands-born director Shane Meadows features an all-star Brit cast including Robert Carlyle, Ricky Tomlinson, Kathy Burke and Rhys Ifans. This critically acclaimed movie also packs in hilarious cameos from Vanessa Feltz, Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer.
Set in a Midlands suburb, this comedy drama is a poignant insight into the lives of live-in partners Dek and Shirley. Together they look after Marlene, Shirley's only daughter by first-love and all round jack-the-lad Jimmy (Robert Carlyle).
The film starts with dull Dek proposing to Shirley live on 'Face to Feltz'. Jimmy sees the proposal on TV and it isn't long before he rides into town to win back the love of his life…little does he know he faces a real, pistols-at-dawn, family standoff.
Baseball bats and Ford Sierras replace rifles and wagons in this story of lost love, honesty and revenge, but as with all great Westerns, good triumphs over evil to win the day - all to the sound of a country-style, guitar-twanging sound-track!
First released to cinemas nationwide in September 2002, Once Upon a Time in the Midlands, was nominated for the Grand Prix Asturias at the 2002 Gijon International Film Festival. It is released on video and DVD from 29 September. Presented as a Double Disk set, the DVD also incorporates, early rehearsal footage, 'Once Upon A Time Around Britain' a hilarious video-diary/documentary on the film's promotional tour, the full 'Face To Feltz' episode, deleted scenes and much more.
Thursday, July 17, 2003
AsoloArtFilmFestival
Asolo – Montebelluna
22 – 28 September 2003
Three hundred and sixty-three films representing thirty-one countries. This is the extraordinary result of participation in the third AsoloArtFilmFestival, launched in the wake of the Asolo Festival Internazionale del Film sull’Arte e di Biografie d’Artista which was in turn founded way back in 1973 by Flavia Paulon.
This is highly satisfying both to promoters and organisers.
The AsoloArtFilmFestival will take place in Asolo, at the Teatro E. Duse, and Montebelluna, at the Cinema Italia Eden, from 22 to 28 September 2003.
The works submitted have been undergoing selection for more than a month, in what is no easy task given the high overall quality.
The organising body, under the artistic direction of Anna Maria Cerrato, has set the end of July for listing the definitive selection of works to be admitted to the competition.
For details go to:
www.asolofilmfestival.it
Asolo – Montebelluna
22 – 28 September 2003
Three hundred and sixty-three films representing thirty-one countries. This is the extraordinary result of participation in the third AsoloArtFilmFestival, launched in the wake of the Asolo Festival Internazionale del Film sull’Arte e di Biografie d’Artista which was in turn founded way back in 1973 by Flavia Paulon.
This is highly satisfying both to promoters and organisers.
The AsoloArtFilmFestival will take place in Asolo, at the Teatro E. Duse, and Montebelluna, at the Cinema Italia Eden, from 22 to 28 September 2003.
The works submitted have been undergoing selection for more than a month, in what is no easy task given the high overall quality.
The organising body, under the artistic direction of Anna Maria Cerrato, has set the end of July for listing the definitive selection of works to be admitted to the competition.
For details go to:
www.asolofilmfestival.it
Moving Conversations
Edinburgh based ‘itinerant’ cinema operator, The Futurist, is to offer its acclaimed Moving Conversations events at the Warner Village cinema in Edinburgh. Moving Conversations offer a lively panel discussion about a range of subjects, before showing a main feature movie. The Futurist has already partnered with the Royal Museum and the Filmhouse to cover topics such as the Scottish video games industry, personal recollections of the Nazi holocaust, acting and journalism. Now the Futurist has teamed up with
Warner Village to offer a series of these events, initially turning its
sights on comedy and technology...
The Futurist Cinema Company presents
MOVING CONVERSATIONS
WARNER VILLAGE CINEMA, EDINBURGH, 6.30pm, 24th JULY 2003
SPAMMERS & SPOOLS
Moving Conversations, the popular panel discussion with a twist, dips its toes into the world of computers and technology on 24th July at the Warner Village Cinema in Greenside Place, Edinburgh. Scottish technology gurus such as David Farquhar from Interactive University, Dr Aydin Kurt Elli from edNET, Tracey Ward from MX Alliance and Ian Preece from The National Trust for Scotland will each choose a film that represents the best or the worst
of technology. These movies will be impossible to predict, however the choice will be backed up by an impassioned and eloquent argument. The debate will be followed by a showing of the digital cinema masterpiece, Russian Ark - a unique journey through time and Russian history and the first entirely unedited, single take, full-length feature film. All for a mere £6.50 (£5.50 conc).
This is guaranteed to be one technology bubble bursting with goodness and value.
Tickets can be purchased on the door, in advance at the Warner Village box office (Tel 0131 557 3964) or via the automated booking number 0870 2406020.
The Futurist Cinema Company presents
MOVING CONVERSATIONS
STAND UP TO CELLULOID
Six Moving Conversations about comedy followed by a classic comedy feature 4,7,11,14,18,21 August, 6.30pm, Warner Village Cinema, Edinburgh Moving Conversations is making six appearances at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Each night we will have three different comedians (some local, some from out of town) who will identify their essential comedy movies and discuss the finer points of stand up comedy i.e. how to cope with abusive punters or how to deliver a contemporary routine without swearing.
The comedy line-up includes:
Gordon Southern [BBC1’s Stand Up Show & R4’s Cheese Shop]
Noel James [Skitzaphrantic]
Will Smith [Will Smith is Much Obliged]
Stephen Grant [Stephen Grant’s Route 1]
The 'classic' (and we use the word advisedly) movies on show are as follows:
4th Le Diner de Cons (1998)
7th Being John Malkovitch (1999)
11th Blazing Saddles (1974)
14th Groundhog Day (1993)
18th Wayne's World (1992)
21st Ferris Buellers Day Off (1986)
Tickets cost a Fringetastic £7.50 (£5.50 concession) and can be obtained at the Fringe box office or via the Warner Village Cinema (Tel: 0131 557 3964).
Note that we are running a 2 for 1 offer on the 4th and a group discount applies for those purchasing 10 tickets or more for any of the shows.
For more information on Moving Conversations and The Futurist visit
www.futuristcinema.com
Edinburgh based ‘itinerant’ cinema operator, The Futurist, is to offer its acclaimed Moving Conversations events at the Warner Village cinema in Edinburgh. Moving Conversations offer a lively panel discussion about a range of subjects, before showing a main feature movie. The Futurist has already partnered with the Royal Museum and the Filmhouse to cover topics such as the Scottish video games industry, personal recollections of the Nazi holocaust, acting and journalism. Now the Futurist has teamed up with
Warner Village to offer a series of these events, initially turning its
sights on comedy and technology...
The Futurist Cinema Company presents
MOVING CONVERSATIONS
WARNER VILLAGE CINEMA, EDINBURGH, 6.30pm, 24th JULY 2003
SPAMMERS & SPOOLS
Moving Conversations, the popular panel discussion with a twist, dips its toes into the world of computers and technology on 24th July at the Warner Village Cinema in Greenside Place, Edinburgh. Scottish technology gurus such as David Farquhar from Interactive University, Dr Aydin Kurt Elli from edNET, Tracey Ward from MX Alliance and Ian Preece from The National Trust for Scotland will each choose a film that represents the best or the worst
of technology. These movies will be impossible to predict, however the choice will be backed up by an impassioned and eloquent argument. The debate will be followed by a showing of the digital cinema masterpiece, Russian Ark - a unique journey through time and Russian history and the first entirely unedited, single take, full-length feature film. All for a mere £6.50 (£5.50 conc).
This is guaranteed to be one technology bubble bursting with goodness and value.
Tickets can be purchased on the door, in advance at the Warner Village box office (Tel 0131 557 3964) or via the automated booking number 0870 2406020.
The Futurist Cinema Company presents
MOVING CONVERSATIONS
STAND UP TO CELLULOID
Six Moving Conversations about comedy followed by a classic comedy feature 4,7,11,14,18,21 August, 6.30pm, Warner Village Cinema, Edinburgh Moving Conversations is making six appearances at this year's Edinburgh Festival Fringe. Each night we will have three different comedians (some local, some from out of town) who will identify their essential comedy movies and discuss the finer points of stand up comedy i.e. how to cope with abusive punters or how to deliver a contemporary routine without swearing.
The comedy line-up includes:
Gordon Southern [BBC1’s Stand Up Show & R4’s Cheese Shop]
Noel James [Skitzaphrantic]
Will Smith [Will Smith is Much Obliged]
Stephen Grant [Stephen Grant’s Route 1]
The 'classic' (and we use the word advisedly) movies on show are as follows:
4th Le Diner de Cons (1998)
7th Being John Malkovitch (1999)
11th Blazing Saddles (1974)
14th Groundhog Day (1993)
18th Wayne's World (1992)
21st Ferris Buellers Day Off (1986)
Tickets cost a Fringetastic £7.50 (£5.50 concession) and can be obtained at the Fringe box office or via the Warner Village Cinema (Tel: 0131 557 3964).
Note that we are running a 2 for 1 offer on the 4th and a group discount applies for those purchasing 10 tickets or more for any of the shows.
For more information on Moving Conversations and The Futurist visit
www.futuristcinema.com
Tuesday, July 15, 2003
bfi pays tribute to film critic and broadcaster Alexander Walker
The British Film Institute today paid tribute to former bfi governor Alexander Walker whose death was announced this morning.
bfi Chairman Anthony Minghella said: "Alexander Walker's contribution to the appreciation and understanding of British film was unique.
"He was passionate about film and that love affair with cinema was clear in everything he wrote.
"He was much more than a film critic. He was a champion for quality cinema in this country. As a broadcaster, commentator and film historian he had no equal. He was a good friend and sometime critic of the bfi. As a former governor he had strong views about the future of film and the work of the Institute. It is to his credit that he never shied away from expressing his views which were always informed."
He added: "The London film world and British cinema are a smaller and less colourful place without him."
bfi Director Amanda Nevill added: " I am sure I speak for everyone at the bfi when I say we are saddened that we have lost such a substantial figure in the cinema world.
"He was film."
She added: "Part of the landscape of film culture has gone with his passing and British cinema is the poorer as a result.
"His association with the British Film Institute goes back a long way. He was a former member governor of the bfi and was never shy to express his views about the organisation and its direction. Throughout, he was a tenacious, determined and vocal advocate for film in this country and although not always a fan, was a supporter of the work of the British Film Institute.
"He was passionate about the movies and had an unrivalled knowledge of Hollywood and the classic years of British and American cinema.
"This is a loss not only to British newspapers and film criticism but to everyone who loves film in this country."
In 'Dietrich' by Malene Sheppard Skaerved (Haus Publishing, 2003) it notes that Marlene hated biographers and covered her edition of Walker's book 'Dietrich' (Harper & Row, 1984) with scribbled notes. She accuses him of lying and writes on one page 'Rot, Rot. Bullshit, double Bullshit.' So he obviously made an impact with her!
The British Film Institute today paid tribute to former bfi governor Alexander Walker whose death was announced this morning.
bfi Chairman Anthony Minghella said: "Alexander Walker's contribution to the appreciation and understanding of British film was unique.
"He was passionate about film and that love affair with cinema was clear in everything he wrote.
"He was much more than a film critic. He was a champion for quality cinema in this country. As a broadcaster, commentator and film historian he had no equal. He was a good friend and sometime critic of the bfi. As a former governor he had strong views about the future of film and the work of the Institute. It is to his credit that he never shied away from expressing his views which were always informed."
He added: "The London film world and British cinema are a smaller and less colourful place without him."
bfi Director Amanda Nevill added: " I am sure I speak for everyone at the bfi when I say we are saddened that we have lost such a substantial figure in the cinema world.
"He was film."
She added: "Part of the landscape of film culture has gone with his passing and British cinema is the poorer as a result.
"His association with the British Film Institute goes back a long way. He was a former member governor of the bfi and was never shy to express his views about the organisation and its direction. Throughout, he was a tenacious, determined and vocal advocate for film in this country and although not always a fan, was a supporter of the work of the British Film Institute.
"He was passionate about the movies and had an unrivalled knowledge of Hollywood and the classic years of British and American cinema.
"This is a loss not only to British newspapers and film criticism but to everyone who loves film in this country."
In 'Dietrich' by Malene Sheppard Skaerved (Haus Publishing, 2003) it notes that Marlene hated biographers and covered her edition of Walker's book 'Dietrich' (Harper & Row, 1984) with scribbled notes. She accuses him of lying and writes on one page 'Rot, Rot. Bullshit, double Bullshit.' So he obviously made an impact with her!
Tuesday, July 08, 2003
Promoting British Talent
The British Independent Film Awards, which last year won the Hollis
Sponsorship Award for Best Low Budget Sponsorship and The Raindance Film Festival, are working with Transmission Inc. Ltd to secure a three year title sponsorship deal.
Although separate projects, both events are intrinsically linked and form the cornerstone of new talent in independent British Film Making. Transmission Inc. Ltd is working with the in-house team to put together a package aimed at building a long-term relationship with a commercial partner whilst promoting British talent in filmmaking.
In its sixth year, the British Independent Film Awards continue to grow in size and stature, filling an important niche in the UK and Independent filmmaking calendar. Over-subscribed for the last five years, this is the UK's fastest growing film event.
This year will also see the introduction of the Best British Feature
Documentary. The organisers feel this is a welcome addition to the current categories, highlighting and publicising an important educational and prolific genre of British independent filmmaking.
The British Independent Film Awards, which last year won the Hollis
Sponsorship Award for Best Low Budget Sponsorship and The Raindance Film Festival, are working with Transmission Inc. Ltd to secure a three year title sponsorship deal.
Although separate projects, both events are intrinsically linked and form the cornerstone of new talent in independent British Film Making. Transmission Inc. Ltd is working with the in-house team to put together a package aimed at building a long-term relationship with a commercial partner whilst promoting British talent in filmmaking.
In its sixth year, the British Independent Film Awards continue to grow in size and stature, filling an important niche in the UK and Independent filmmaking calendar. Over-subscribed for the last five years, this is the UK's fastest growing film event.
This year will also see the introduction of the Best British Feature
Documentary. The organisers feel this is a welcome addition to the current categories, highlighting and publicising an important educational and prolific genre of British independent filmmaking.
Award-winning South African film Amandla added to respectFilm festival
AMANDLA! A Revolution In Four-Part Harmony (2003)
Lee Hirsch/South Africa/2003/103mins/certificate tbc
Curzon Mayfair - Tuesday 15 July 6.30pm £8.50
38 Curzon Street Mayfair London W1J 7TY, 020 7495 0500 www.curzoncinemas.com
tube: Green Park/Hyde Park Corner
The power of song to communicate, motivate, console, unite and, ultimately, beget change: that ideal, gloriously realized, lies at the heart of director Lee Hirsch's inspiring feature-film documentary Amandla! A Revolution In Four-Part Harmony.
Winner of the Audience Award and Freedom of Expression Award at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival, Amandla! tells the story of black South African freedom music and reveals the central role it played in the long battle against apartheid. The first film to specifically consider the music that sustained and galvanized black South Africans for more than 40 years, Amandla!'s focus is on the struggle's spiritual dimension, as articulated and embodied in song. It is unlike any other film yet made on the subject of apartheid, and an electrically expressive portrait of South African life then and now.
AMANDLA! A Revolution In Four-Part Harmony (2003)
Lee Hirsch/South Africa/2003/103mins/certificate tbc
Curzon Mayfair - Tuesday 15 July 6.30pm £8.50
38 Curzon Street Mayfair London W1J 7TY, 020 7495 0500 www.curzoncinemas.com
tube: Green Park/Hyde Park Corner
The power of song to communicate, motivate, console, unite and, ultimately, beget change: that ideal, gloriously realized, lies at the heart of director Lee Hirsch's inspiring feature-film documentary Amandla! A Revolution In Four-Part Harmony.
Winner of the Audience Award and Freedom of Expression Award at the 2002 Sundance Film Festival, Amandla! tells the story of black South African freedom music and reveals the central role it played in the long battle against apartheid. The first film to specifically consider the music that sustained and galvanized black South Africans for more than 40 years, Amandla!'s focus is on the struggle's spiritual dimension, as articulated and embodied in song. It is unlike any other film yet made on the subject of apartheid, and an electrically expressive portrait of South African life then and now.
Monday, July 07, 2003
The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition
This is a unique visitor experience based on the famous films, opens at the Science Museum on 16 September 2003.
The family exhibition arrives before the eagerly awaited final instalment of the film trilogy and will be the only chance for European fans to explore for themselves the fantastic world created for The Lord of the Rings films.
Hundreds of artefacts from the movies including models, armoury and animatronics will feature alongside interactive computer and mechanical demonstrations of the cutting-edge technology used to bring the story to life.
The fascinating exhibition includes:
* Demonstrations of special effects, including the combining of 'real' and 'digital' action and CGI (computer-generated-image technology)
* A scaling interactive allowing visitors to become Hobbit sized in a scene from The Fellowship of the Ring - and then buy a print of themselves
* A display on prosthetics including Hobbit feet, Orc teeth and the contact lenses used to give the Orcs their unique look
* Giant models including Hobbiton Mill, Treebeard and a cave troll
* An 'armour corridor' featuring weapons belonging to Arwen, Gandalf, Frodo, and Aragorn
Ø Outfits including Arwen's riding costume, Galadriel's stunning dress, and Gandalf's robes
Visitors will be transported into the world of Middle-earth where they will be met by Frodo and his Hobbit companions, the wizards, the Black Riders, the cultures of Middle-earth and the fearsome warriors - all in the authentic costumes created for the films.
The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition will enable visitors to experience first hand some of the awe-inspiring special effects used to make the blockbuster films.
Head of the Science Museum, Jon Tucker, said: "This excellent exhibition provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the science and technology which made the film trilogy possible - from the computer generated special effects to the development of the complex animatronics that created such stunning results."
The exhibition culminates with a face-to-face encounter with the central icon from the films - the One Ring itself.
· Due to the expected demand for tickets to see this exhibition, tickets can be pre-booked on 0870 870 4868.
· The Science Museum will be running a series of adult and family events during the autumn half term and Christmas holidays investigating traditional and state-of-the-art filmmaking techniques.
Exhibition
16 September 2003 to 11 January 2004
Ticket Prices
Monday - Friday: Adults £9.95, Children/Concessions £6.95
Saturday - Sunday: Adults £11.95, Children/Concessions £8.95
Information and booking line
0870 870 4868
This is a unique visitor experience based on the famous films, opens at the Science Museum on 16 September 2003.
The family exhibition arrives before the eagerly awaited final instalment of the film trilogy and will be the only chance for European fans to explore for themselves the fantastic world created for The Lord of the Rings films.
Hundreds of artefacts from the movies including models, armoury and animatronics will feature alongside interactive computer and mechanical demonstrations of the cutting-edge technology used to bring the story to life.
The fascinating exhibition includes:
* Demonstrations of special effects, including the combining of 'real' and 'digital' action and CGI (computer-generated-image technology)
* A scaling interactive allowing visitors to become Hobbit sized in a scene from The Fellowship of the Ring - and then buy a print of themselves
* A display on prosthetics including Hobbit feet, Orc teeth and the contact lenses used to give the Orcs their unique look
* Giant models including Hobbiton Mill, Treebeard and a cave troll
* An 'armour corridor' featuring weapons belonging to Arwen, Gandalf, Frodo, and Aragorn
Ø Outfits including Arwen's riding costume, Galadriel's stunning dress, and Gandalf's robes
Visitors will be transported into the world of Middle-earth where they will be met by Frodo and his Hobbit companions, the wizards, the Black Riders, the cultures of Middle-earth and the fearsome warriors - all in the authentic costumes created for the films.
The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition will enable visitors to experience first hand some of the awe-inspiring special effects used to make the blockbuster films.
Head of the Science Museum, Jon Tucker, said: "This excellent exhibition provides a unique behind-the-scenes look at the science and technology which made the film trilogy possible - from the computer generated special effects to the development of the complex animatronics that created such stunning results."
The exhibition culminates with a face-to-face encounter with the central icon from the films - the One Ring itself.
· Due to the expected demand for tickets to see this exhibition, tickets can be pre-booked on 0870 870 4868.
· The Science Museum will be running a series of adult and family events during the autumn half term and Christmas holidays investigating traditional and state-of-the-art filmmaking techniques.
Exhibition
16 September 2003 to 11 January 2004
Ticket Prices
Monday - Friday: Adults £9.95, Children/Concessions £6.95
Saturday - Sunday: Adults £11.95, Children/Concessions £8.95
Information and booking line
0870 870 4868
Tuesday, July 01, 2003
GERRY ANDERSON AND THE THUNDERBIRDS MOVIE
Gerry Anderson, creator of the original Thunderbirds series, has issued the following statement regarding the Thunderbirds Movie that is currently in production by Working Title Films at Pinewood Studios:
"A number of journalists I have spoken to, are under the impression that I am both involved with and supporting this feature film.
For the record, I would like to clarify my position with regards to the Thunderbirds Film, once and for all.
I was not approached by anyone, either before or at the outset of production of this movie, to be creatively involved. As a result I know very little about the film. I have not seen the script and have made it my business not to attempt to find out about it - despite the close physical proximity of filming to the facility that I am setting up for the creation of the new Captain Scarlet TV series.
I have a good relationship with the film's Director, Jonathan Frakes, whose previous work I rate highly, however, I am certainly in no position to endorse the film - or otherwise - and I would like this to be clearly understood."
Gerry Anderson, creator of the original Thunderbirds series, has issued the following statement regarding the Thunderbirds Movie that is currently in production by Working Title Films at Pinewood Studios:
"A number of journalists I have spoken to, are under the impression that I am both involved with and supporting this feature film.
For the record, I would like to clarify my position with regards to the Thunderbirds Film, once and for all.
I was not approached by anyone, either before or at the outset of production of this movie, to be creatively involved. As a result I know very little about the film. I have not seen the script and have made it my business not to attempt to find out about it - despite the close physical proximity of filming to the facility that I am setting up for the creation of the new Captain Scarlet TV series.
I have a good relationship with the film's Director, Jonathan Frakes, whose previous work I rate highly, however, I am certainly in no position to endorse the film - or otherwise - and I would like this to be clearly understood."
Monday, June 30, 2003
007 Heaven in Cornwall
Your car-filled fantasies are about to become true, as James Bond's Aston Martin Vanquish from "Die Another Day", K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider, the Batmobile and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang all roar down to St Agnes in Cornwall.
The National Film Exhibition will bring out the big kid in you as you wander around the other stars of the show; 007's Lotus Espirit from "The Spy Who
Loved Me" and his Aston Martin V8 from "Living Daylights". Wallace and Gromit, the animation figures will be there, as will Kevin Costner's costume from "Robin Hood Prince of Thieves".
For those who are mad about beautiful cars and enjoy their films, Travelsmith has a holiday package that includes free admission to the
National Film Exhibition at the brand new South West Film studios in St Agnes. Stay in your private two-bedroom apartment (that sleeps four), set in
the heart the beautiful village that is located near the sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and rolling surf of the Atlantic Coast. The Church View apartment comes with modern private facilities and nearby free parking areas.
Prices for seven night holidays commencing Saturdays start from #310 per apartment and in peak rise to #560 per apartment. All prices include free admission to the film exhibition. Please note Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is on display on certain days by special arrangement and these days can be found by visiting www.thenationalfilmexhibition.com
For more information call Travelsmith on 01621 784 666 quoting "Offer C685".
Your car-filled fantasies are about to become true, as James Bond's Aston Martin Vanquish from "Die Another Day", K.I.T.T. from Knight Rider, the Batmobile and Chitty Chitty Bang Bang all roar down to St Agnes in Cornwall.
The National Film Exhibition will bring out the big kid in you as you wander around the other stars of the show; 007's Lotus Espirit from "The Spy Who
Loved Me" and his Aston Martin V8 from "Living Daylights". Wallace and Gromit, the animation figures will be there, as will Kevin Costner's costume from "Robin Hood Prince of Thieves".
For those who are mad about beautiful cars and enjoy their films, Travelsmith has a holiday package that includes free admission to the
National Film Exhibition at the brand new South West Film studios in St Agnes. Stay in your private two-bedroom apartment (that sleeps four), set in
the heart the beautiful village that is located near the sandy beaches, dramatic cliffs and rolling surf of the Atlantic Coast. The Church View apartment comes with modern private facilities and nearby free parking areas.
Prices for seven night holidays commencing Saturdays start from #310 per apartment and in peak rise to #560 per apartment. All prices include free admission to the film exhibition. Please note Chitty Chitty Bang Bang is on display on certain days by special arrangement and these days can be found by visiting www.thenationalfilmexhibition.com
For more information call Travelsmith on 01621 784 666 quoting "Offer C685".
RIDLEY SCOTT BACKS NEW UK TALENT INITIATIVE
Escape Studios, the UK’s premier visual effects school has announced the Ridley Scott Awards, a new initiative to seek out and support film, television and computer games creatives.
Award winning British director Ridley Scott who is supporting the awards has launched a new enterprise that seeks to reward and promote the very best creative talent in the visual effects and games industries. Ridley Scott, who used extensive special effects in films such as Gladiator, Alien and Blade Runner, said: "I am honoured to have these awards named after me. Escape's initiative is vital to the discovery of new talent for the UK's creative industries."
Together with Ridley Scott, Escape Studios has recognised that with the UK fast becoming a strong force in all areas of visual effects and games production, it is vital that efforts to encourage and develop the next generation of artists is maintained. For the Awards’ winners, the prizes on offer - which includes an exclusive training package at Escape Studios- will provide an enormous foot-up into a notoriously inaccessible profession; for Escape Studios, the winners will continue the flow of creative talent passing through their doors.
The Ridley Scott Awards comprises of four categories - Animation, Visual Effects, Motion Graphics and Games - with each of these individually sponsored by a key organisation from the creative industry.
The Ridley Scott Awards provide a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to enter the visual effects, games, television or animation industries but who doesn’t know how. Winners from each category will be given full training at Escape Studios; full copies of both Alias Wavefront’s Oscar winning 3D Animation package, Maya and Apple’s industry standard tool for digital compositing Shake, and an exclusive work experience placement with the corresponding sponsoring facility.
Escape’s Managing Director Dominic Davenport said: “Escape Studios are honoured to have the support of an industry luminary such as Ridley Scott as it only emphasises the importance of such an initiative and the benefits of industry focused education.”
Entry to the award scheme is open to anyone who is not currently employed in the fields of visual effects, 3D animation, motion graphics or games development. School leavers, college leavers and graduates or those wishing to enter the industry from other fields are all invited to participate. The closing date is Tuesday, 30 September 2003 and no entries received after this will be judged.
All entrants must enter online at www.escapestudios.co.uk in order to be eligible for the awards.
Escape’s Managing Director Dominic Davenport adds: “The Ridley Scott Awards are designed for those who have artistic skill but haven’t had the opportunity to be educated in the techniques and processes. These awards reward potential rather than accomplishment, a concept which is central to Escape Studios ethos.”
5104696
Escape Studios, the UK’s premier visual effects school has announced the Ridley Scott Awards, a new initiative to seek out and support film, television and computer games creatives.
Award winning British director Ridley Scott who is supporting the awards has launched a new enterprise that seeks to reward and promote the very best creative talent in the visual effects and games industries. Ridley Scott, who used extensive special effects in films such as Gladiator, Alien and Blade Runner, said: "I am honoured to have these awards named after me. Escape's initiative is vital to the discovery of new talent for the UK's creative industries."
Together with Ridley Scott, Escape Studios has recognised that with the UK fast becoming a strong force in all areas of visual effects and games production, it is vital that efforts to encourage and develop the next generation of artists is maintained. For the Awards’ winners, the prizes on offer - which includes an exclusive training package at Escape Studios- will provide an enormous foot-up into a notoriously inaccessible profession; for Escape Studios, the winners will continue the flow of creative talent passing through their doors.
The Ridley Scott Awards comprises of four categories - Animation, Visual Effects, Motion Graphics and Games - with each of these individually sponsored by a key organisation from the creative industry.
The Ridley Scott Awards provide a fantastic opportunity for anyone wanting to enter the visual effects, games, television or animation industries but who doesn’t know how. Winners from each category will be given full training at Escape Studios; full copies of both Alias Wavefront’s Oscar winning 3D Animation package, Maya and Apple’s industry standard tool for digital compositing Shake, and an exclusive work experience placement with the corresponding sponsoring facility.
Escape’s Managing Director Dominic Davenport said: “Escape Studios are honoured to have the support of an industry luminary such as Ridley Scott as it only emphasises the importance of such an initiative and the benefits of industry focused education.”
Entry to the award scheme is open to anyone who is not currently employed in the fields of visual effects, 3D animation, motion graphics or games development. School leavers, college leavers and graduates or those wishing to enter the industry from other fields are all invited to participate. The closing date is Tuesday, 30 September 2003 and no entries received after this will be judged.
All entrants must enter online at www.escapestudios.co.uk in order to be eligible for the awards.
Escape’s Managing Director Dominic Davenport adds: “The Ridley Scott Awards are designed for those who have artistic skill but haven’t had the opportunity to be educated in the techniques and processes. These awards reward potential rather than accomplishment, a concept which is central to Escape Studios ethos.”
5104696
Thursday, June 26, 2003
INDUSTRY GREAT AND GOOD GATHER TO SUPPORT GLASGOW FILM FESTIVAL
A star studded line up of screen greats such as Ken Loach, Peter Mullan and Daniella Nardini will grace the UGC Cinema in Renfrew Street in Glasgow this Thursday (26 June) for the ninth Real to Reel Film Festival created by Cardonald College, Glasgow.
Legendary Film Director Ken Loach (currently filming in Glasgow) will make a speech on why he is so keen to return to Glasgow and Scotland time and time again to make films.
The acclaimed director and actor Peter Mullan, patron of the Real to Reel Film Festival, will open the ceremony via video as he is currently on location in LA.
"I am delighted to be patron of The Real to Reel Film Festival. I feel that the basic ideology of Real to Reel facilitates a great chance for new talent, based solely on merit and regardless of culture and budget providing
a genuine opportunity for new filmmakers from the international working classes," Mr Mullan said.
The ceremony is being presented by BBC Scotland's Janice Forsyth and award presenters include Daniella Nardini (This Life, Sirens, Rough Treatment) Gary Lewis (Billy Elliot, Gangs of New York), Martin Compston (Sweet Sixteen) Kathleen McDermott (Morven Callar) amongst others.
Nick Park (Wallace and Gromit) has sent a very amusing video endorsement congratulating the winner of the animation category and Craig Armstrong (Moulin Rouge) has left a good luck message to be read out during the proceedings requesting a new music category for next year!
Peter Mullan also hopes that his support will help Real to Reel expand into an independent, professional event for next year becoming Glasgow's International Short Film Festival.
The Festival consists of 5 categories: Drama, Documentary, Animation, Open and a New Community category to encourage young film makers from youth and drama groups.
A star studded line up of screen greats such as Ken Loach, Peter Mullan and Daniella Nardini will grace the UGC Cinema in Renfrew Street in Glasgow this Thursday (26 June) for the ninth Real to Reel Film Festival created by Cardonald College, Glasgow.
Legendary Film Director Ken Loach (currently filming in Glasgow) will make a speech on why he is so keen to return to Glasgow and Scotland time and time again to make films.
The acclaimed director and actor Peter Mullan, patron of the Real to Reel Film Festival, will open the ceremony via video as he is currently on location in LA.
"I am delighted to be patron of The Real to Reel Film Festival. I feel that the basic ideology of Real to Reel facilitates a great chance for new talent, based solely on merit and regardless of culture and budget providing
a genuine opportunity for new filmmakers from the international working classes," Mr Mullan said.
The ceremony is being presented by BBC Scotland's Janice Forsyth and award presenters include Daniella Nardini (This Life, Sirens, Rough Treatment) Gary Lewis (Billy Elliot, Gangs of New York), Martin Compston (Sweet Sixteen) Kathleen McDermott (Morven Callar) amongst others.
Nick Park (Wallace and Gromit) has sent a very amusing video endorsement congratulating the winner of the animation category and Craig Armstrong (Moulin Rouge) has left a good luck message to be read out during the proceedings requesting a new music category for next year!
Peter Mullan also hopes that his support will help Real to Reel expand into an independent, professional event for next year becoming Glasgow's International Short Film Festival.
The Festival consists of 5 categories: Drama, Documentary, Animation, Open and a New Community category to encourage young film makers from youth and drama groups.
SNAP UP THE LATEST POCKET DVD DIGITAL CAMCORDERS ON NIFTY-GADGETS.NET
Steven Spielberg wannabes, Brad Pitt look-alikes and budding Nicole Kidmans are clawing to get their hands on the latest pocket DVD camcorders, available now on the Web's newest online gadget site, www.nifty-gadgets.net.
Retailing from just 99, some of the best mini movie-makers around - including Aiptek's immensely popular DV2 and DV3100 - are finding their way into the hands of tomorrow's film stars. Currently in stock and in high
demand is Aiptek's bestseller, the DV2 - a Pocket DVD camcorder that features a 1.4" colour LCD screen, expandable memory (through additional CompactFlash cards that can also be purchased through Nifty-Gadgets.net), audio/video out and a generous 1.3 Mega-Pixel resolution.
Visitors to Nifty-Gadgets.net looking for a digital camera will also be pleased to find Aiptek's PocketCam digital camera that comes complete with a digital zoom, 16 MB CF Card, TV out and 1.5" TFT LCD screen.
Steve Harris, General Manager, Nifty-Gadgets.net, enthused, "Pocket-sized DVD camcorders are definitely one of 2003's must-have gadgets and I am confident Nifty-Gadgets.net will be swamped with requests for digitals
cameras - especially with online stores such as Nifty-Gadgets.net slashing the prices consumers are paying on the high street."
For more information about Nifty-Gadgets.net log on to www.nifty-gadgets.net
Steven Spielberg wannabes, Brad Pitt look-alikes and budding Nicole Kidmans are clawing to get their hands on the latest pocket DVD camcorders, available now on the Web's newest online gadget site, www.nifty-gadgets.net.
Retailing from just 99, some of the best mini movie-makers around - including Aiptek's immensely popular DV2 and DV3100 - are finding their way into the hands of tomorrow's film stars. Currently in stock and in high
demand is Aiptek's bestseller, the DV2 - a Pocket DVD camcorder that features a 1.4" colour LCD screen, expandable memory (through additional CompactFlash cards that can also be purchased through Nifty-Gadgets.net), audio/video out and a generous 1.3 Mega-Pixel resolution.
Visitors to Nifty-Gadgets.net looking for a digital camera will also be pleased to find Aiptek's PocketCam digital camera that comes complete with a digital zoom, 16 MB CF Card, TV out and 1.5" TFT LCD screen.
Steve Harris, General Manager, Nifty-Gadgets.net, enthused, "Pocket-sized DVD camcorders are definitely one of 2003's must-have gadgets and I am confident Nifty-Gadgets.net will be swamped with requests for digitals
cameras - especially with online stores such as Nifty-Gadgets.net slashing the prices consumers are paying on the high street."
For more information about Nifty-Gadgets.net log on to www.nifty-gadgets.net
Tuesday, June 24, 2003
respect Festival
10-17 July 2003
a celebration of diversity through film
First ever respect film festival launches with gala screening of Raising Victor Vargas
RAISING VICTOR VARGAS by award winning director Peter Sollett will have an exclusive screening at the opening gala for the very first respectfilm, a week long season of films celebrating diversity from around the world, at cinemas across London from 10-17 July. Raising Victor Vargas tells the story of young love in New York's Lower East Side and has received excellent reviews in the States. The film will be screened at the Curzon Mayfair on Thursday 10 July.
respectFilm is being programmed by Marc Boothe on behalf of the Mayor of London and will be one of the highlights of respect week , a wide-ranging programme of arts, community and educational events taking place across the capital in the run up to the Mayor's respect anti-racist festival at the Dome, Greenwich on 19 July.
Amongst several premieres and exclusive screening are STANDING IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN, the documentary and live performance film about the pivotal role played by the Funk Brothers in the musical legacy that spawned the once ubiquitous 'Motown sound', which changed the course of music around the world, will close the festival at the Ritzy, Brixton, on Thursday 17 July.
There will be world premiere screenings of SCARRED, TASVIH and A LONG WAY FROM PICCADILLY, three films made by and for refugees living in London and funded by the Princess Diana Memorial Fund and the Prince’s Trust. Other festival highlights include Rick Famuyiwa's hip-hop tale BROWN SUGAR and Rick Elgood and Don Letts' Jamaican feature ONE LOVE, about love across religious and social borders.
There will also be an exclusive preview screening of THE MAKING OF 1 GIANT LEAP, the Duncan Bridgeman-Jamie Catto movie record of their musical tour of 25 countries, including a Q&A with Jamie Catto and Duncan Bridgeman.
Other special events include Q&As with Sophie Fiennes (director, HOOVER STREET REVIVAL); Michael Ocelot (KIRIKOU – THE SORCERESS); Safina Uberoi (MY MOTHER INDIA), whilst One Love will be introduced by directors Rick Elgood and Don Letts.
Also due to take part in education events are screenwriter Tony Grisoni at a special screening of Michael Winterbottom's IN THIS WORLD and broadcaster Henry Bonsu, who will be talking to actor Chiwetel Ejiofor from Stephen Frears' DIRTY PRETTY THINGS. Playwright and critic Bonnie Greer will be interviewed by film critic Peter Curran at a special showing of her favourite film, THE THIRD MAN.
Marc Boothe says: 'The respectFilm festival provide a unique and much needed platform for London's multi-ethnic communities to celebrate the wealth and diversity of stories from the around the world on the 'Big Screen. It's a great honour to be part of something that is so positive and inclusive.'
respectFilm takes place from 10-17 July at the Curzon Mayfair, the Other Cinema, Ritzy Cinema, Brixton, Rio Cinema, Hackney, Genesis Cinema, Mile End, and the ICA.
The festival programme is as follows:
RespectFilm
THURSDAY 10 JULY
RAISING VICTOR VARGAS OPENING NIGHT GALA
Peter Sollett/US/2003/88mins/cert 15
Victor Vargas (Victor Rasuk), is a self-styled lower east-side teenage Casanova who, despite his adolescent hubris, has a lot to learn about love. Caught between regaining his grandmother’s trust and helping his kid brother and sister negotiate the oft-baffling ways of the world, Victor discovers that there’s a difference between acting like a man and becoming one.
Plus
SCARRED World Premiere
UK/2003/12mins/cert 16
See special events
Curzon Mayfair Thursday 10 July 6.30pm £8.50
FRIDAY 11 JULY
THE CLAY BIRD (Matir Mona)
Tareque Masud/Bangladesh/2002/100mins/English subtitles/cert 15
Cannes award-winning story tells of family life during the upheavals of East Pakistan in the 1960s.
Check Box Office for details 020 7780 2000
Genesis Friday 11 July at 3pm 6pm 9pm £5.50/£4.50/£3.65
MY MOTHER INDIA
Safina Uberoi/Australia/2001/52mins/no certificate
Delightful portrait of the director’s family introduces us to a kitsch academic father, an Australian mother and their Indian neighbours. What begins as a humorous documentary unfolds into a complex commentary on the social, political and religious events of the anti-Sikh riots in 1984, which tore this family apart. Includes Q&A with director Safina Uberoi
ICA Friday 11 & Friday 18 July at 7pm £6.50/£5.50
SATURDAY 12 JULY
SERIOUS ABOUT SHORTS: DIASPORA SHORTS SHOWCASE
Produced by B3 media
A short film showcase featuring the best in short films from the UK’s Black and Asian filmmakers. Shot on film and digitally the showcase will provide a unique opportunity to discover tomorrow’s hot talent today.
Curzon Mayfair Saturday 12 July 11am £3
COWBOY BE-BOP: the Movie
Shinichiro Watanabe/Japan/2003/115mins/English subtitles/Cert 12A
In the days leading up to Halloween 2071 the bounty hunting crew of the spaceship BeBop are bored and broke. This Bladerunner-esque post-modern anime epic delights with its goony touches and unexpected delicacy.
ICA Saturday 12 July 2pm & 10.30pm £6.50/£5.50
HOOVER STREET REVIVAL
Sophie Fiennes/US/2002/100mins/Cert U
This unique and innovative film takes as its subject life, death and the Word of God as experienced around Greater Bethany Community Church, in the notorious South Central, LA.
Includes Q&A with director Sophie Fiennes
The Other Cinema Saturday 12 July 6.30pm £7/£4
SUNDAY 13 JULY
'MY FAVORITE FILM': THE THIRD MAN
Carol Reed/US/1949/105mins/cert U
Playwright and critic Bonnie Greer introduces a special showing of her favourite film: Carol Reed’s classic THE THIRD MAN. Interviewed by Peter Curran from BBC LDN The Big Picture 94.9FM.
Curzon Mayfair Sunday 13 July 1pm £6
Double Bill
HAMMAM - THE TURKISH BATH
Ferzan Ozpetek/Italy-Turkey-Spain/1997/98mins/English subtitles/Cert 15
Rome interior designer Francesco leaves his fading marriage behind when he travels to Istanbul to assess the inheritance left by his aunt, an old-fashioned Turkish bath (or 'hammam').
+ IGNORANT FAIRIES
Ferzan Ozpetek/Italy/2001/105mins/English subtitles/Cert 15
Stefano Accorsi, Margherita Buy.
Contrasting lifestyles and unveiling desires, the third film from Turkish-born director Ozpetek is his first based fully in Italy. An affluent thirtysomething doctor (Buy) is distraught after the death of her husband and shocked to discover that he had long-term male lover.
Rio Cinema Sunday 13 July 2pm £7/£5.50
KIRIKOU – THE SORCERESS
Michael Ocelot/ France/1998/74mins/Cert U
The tiny Kirikou is born into an African village upon which a sorceress called Karaba has cast a terrible spell. His adventure-filled voyage leads him to the forbidden mountain, where the wise man of the mountain, who knows of Karaba and her secrets awaits him. Kirikou's stunning visuals are accented by a traditional music soundtrack by African music giant Youssou N'Dour of Senegal.
plus face painters and live African drumming and Q&A with Michael Ocelot.
Ritzy Cinema Sunday 13 July 4.30pm £5
BROWN SUGAR EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW SCREENING
Rick Famuyiwa/US/2002/109mins/cert 12A
Starring: Taye Diggs, Sanaa Lathan, Mos Def, Queen Latifah. Dre and Sidney attribute their friendship and their careers to a single moment - the day they discovered hip-hop. Now some 15 years later, as they lay down the tracks toward their futures, hip-hop isn't the only thing that keeps them coming back to that moment.
Ritzy Brixton Sunday 13 July 7pm £7/£4
MONDAY 14 JULY
BREATH CONTROL: HISTORY OF THE HUMAN BEAT BOX
Joey Garfield/ 2002/ US/ 74mins/cert 15
Forget samplers, drum machines and devices: this is the real deal. Going back as far as the DJ and breakdancing in Hip Hop culture is the art of making music using just the human voice. The first documentary on this skill, using new interviews with those involved, including Doug E. Fresh, Biz Markie (The Diabolical) and The Fat Boys. + Diaspora Shorts
The Other Cinema Monday 14 July 7pm £4
TUESDAY 15 JULY
ONE LOVE LONDON PREMIERE
Rick Elgood & Don Letts/Jamaica/2003/tbc mins/cert tbc
Starring Ky-Mani Marley, Cherine Anderson and Vas Blackwood. A contemporary Jamaican 'Romeo and Juliet', One Love tells the tale of young Rasta reggae musician Kassa and Serena, the gospel singing daughter of a Pentecostal preacher who are brought together through their mutual love of music. Introduced by the directors.
Curzon Mayfair Tuesday 15 July 6.30pm £8.50
MON-RAK TRANSISTOR (A Transistor Love Story)
Pen-ek Ratanaruang/Thailand/2001/120mins/English subtitles/Cert 15
From the producers of Tears of the Black Tiger comes the perfect summer movie, a potent blend of Elvis Presley-style musical, love story and poisonous social satire in Hysteric Glamour t-shirts.
ICA ALL WEEK 8.45pm £6.50/£5.50
WEDNESDAY 16 JULY
THE MAKING OF 1 GIANT LEAP EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW
Duncan Bridgeman, Jamie Catto/UK/2002/155min/cert PG
In 2001, Jamie Catto, film-maker and founding member of Faithless and artist/producer Duncan Bridgeman, joined forces to create the project, 1 Giant Leap. They embarked upon a journey of 25 countries including Senegal, Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, India, Australia, the United States and United Kingdom, equipped solely with a digital camera and a laptop. This is the story of that journey.
+ Diaspora Shorts and masterclass Q&A with Jamie Catto and Duncan Bridgeman
The Other Cinema Wednesday 16 July 6.30pm £7/£4
THURSDAY 17 JULY
STANDING IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN CLOSING NIGHT GALA
Paul Justman /US/2002/116mins/cert PG
Their music is famous around the world, though their names are not. Known as the Funk Brothers, they put the soul into the hits of such legendary performers as Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. Standing In The Shadows of Motown tells their story, combining exclusive interviews, archival footage and thrilling new performances, the Funk Brothers backing up Chaka Khan, Ben Harper, Me’shell Ndegeocello, Bootsy Collins.
Ritzy Brixton Thursday 17 July 9pm £7/£4
SPECIAL EVENTS
'23:59' Digital Short Film Competition
Calling all 'guerrilla' filmmakers! The rules are simple: 24 hours to shoot; 24 hours to edit. All you need is an idea, a crew and a weekend. For more information contact info@b3media.co.uk.
Ritzy Brixton 18-20 July
Refugee Short Film Project
In partnership with the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fund, the Prince's Trust has supported The Transient Film exchange to bring together a group of young refugees living in London, to produce short hard-hitting dramas shot on video. The films, Scarred, Tasvih and A Long Way from Piccadilly will be shown throughout the week before our features and documentaries.
EDUCATION EVENTS
Produced by Film Education in association with B3 Media, suitable for people with or without knowledge of film. 15 years and above. All seats cost £1.
IN THIS WORLD
Michael Winterbottom/UK/2002/89mins/cert 15
This highly acclaimed film follows Jamal and Enayatullah as they set out to travel overland to London, passing through Iran, Turkey, Italy and France, in a journey which is so arduous and life threatening that one is constantly aware of the desperation that lies behind it. Includes Q&A with screenwriter Tony Grisoni.
Curzon Mayfair Friday 11 July at 10.30am
DIRTY PRETTY THINGS
Stephen Frears/UK /2002/97mins/cert 15
An urban thriller in which an African night porter enlists the help of a prostitute, a chambermaid and a mortuary technician to solve a bizarre murder. Set in a world of asylum seekers that lies behind the familiar urban metropolis, it is a tale of two cities, both set in London. Includes Q&A with Chiwetel Ejiofor (TBC) and Broadcaster Henry Bonsu.
Curzon Mayfair Monday 14 July 10.30am
More information at:
respect Festival
10-17 July 2003
a celebration of diversity through film
First ever respect film festival launches with gala screening of Raising Victor Vargas
RAISING VICTOR VARGAS by award winning director Peter Sollett will have an exclusive screening at the opening gala for the very first respectfilm, a week long season of films celebrating diversity from around the world, at cinemas across London from 10-17 July. Raising Victor Vargas tells the story of young love in New York's Lower East Side and has received excellent reviews in the States. The film will be screened at the Curzon Mayfair on Thursday 10 July.
respectFilm is being programmed by Marc Boothe on behalf of the Mayor of London and will be one of the highlights of respect week , a wide-ranging programme of arts, community and educational events taking place across the capital in the run up to the Mayor's respect anti-racist festival at the Dome, Greenwich on 19 July.
Amongst several premieres and exclusive screening are STANDING IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN, the documentary and live performance film about the pivotal role played by the Funk Brothers in the musical legacy that spawned the once ubiquitous 'Motown sound', which changed the course of music around the world, will close the festival at the Ritzy, Brixton, on Thursday 17 July.
There will be world premiere screenings of SCARRED, TASVIH and A LONG WAY FROM PICCADILLY, three films made by and for refugees living in London and funded by the Princess Diana Memorial Fund and the Prince’s Trust. Other festival highlights include Rick Famuyiwa's hip-hop tale BROWN SUGAR and Rick Elgood and Don Letts' Jamaican feature ONE LOVE, about love across religious and social borders.
There will also be an exclusive preview screening of THE MAKING OF 1 GIANT LEAP, the Duncan Bridgeman-Jamie Catto movie record of their musical tour of 25 countries, including a Q&A with Jamie Catto and Duncan Bridgeman.
Other special events include Q&As with Sophie Fiennes (director, HOOVER STREET REVIVAL); Michael Ocelot (KIRIKOU – THE SORCERESS); Safina Uberoi (MY MOTHER INDIA), whilst One Love will be introduced by directors Rick Elgood and Don Letts.
Also due to take part in education events are screenwriter Tony Grisoni at a special screening of Michael Winterbottom's IN THIS WORLD and broadcaster Henry Bonsu, who will be talking to actor Chiwetel Ejiofor from Stephen Frears' DIRTY PRETTY THINGS. Playwright and critic Bonnie Greer will be interviewed by film critic Peter Curran at a special showing of her favourite film, THE THIRD MAN.
Marc Boothe says: 'The respectFilm festival provide a unique and much needed platform for London's multi-ethnic communities to celebrate the wealth and diversity of stories from the around the world on the 'Big Screen. It's a great honour to be part of something that is so positive and inclusive.'
respectFilm takes place from 10-17 July at the Curzon Mayfair, the Other Cinema, Ritzy Cinema, Brixton, Rio Cinema, Hackney, Genesis Cinema, Mile End, and the ICA.
The festival programme is as follows:
RespectFilm
THURSDAY 10 JULY
RAISING VICTOR VARGAS OPENING NIGHT GALA
Peter Sollett/US/2003/88mins/cert 15
Victor Vargas (Victor Rasuk), is a self-styled lower east-side teenage Casanova who, despite his adolescent hubris, has a lot to learn about love. Caught between regaining his grandmother’s trust and helping his kid brother and sister negotiate the oft-baffling ways of the world, Victor discovers that there’s a difference between acting like a man and becoming one.
Plus
SCARRED World Premiere
UK/2003/12mins/cert 16
See special events
Curzon Mayfair Thursday 10 July 6.30pm £8.50
FRIDAY 11 JULY
THE CLAY BIRD (Matir Mona)
Tareque Masud/Bangladesh/2002/100mins/English subtitles/cert 15
Cannes award-winning story tells of family life during the upheavals of East Pakistan in the 1960s.
Check Box Office for details 020 7780 2000
Genesis Friday 11 July at 3pm 6pm 9pm £5.50/£4.50/£3.65
MY MOTHER INDIA
Safina Uberoi/Australia/2001/52mins/no certificate
Delightful portrait of the director’s family introduces us to a kitsch academic father, an Australian mother and their Indian neighbours. What begins as a humorous documentary unfolds into a complex commentary on the social, political and religious events of the anti-Sikh riots in 1984, which tore this family apart. Includes Q&A with director Safina Uberoi
ICA Friday 11 & Friday 18 July at 7pm £6.50/£5.50
SATURDAY 12 JULY
SERIOUS ABOUT SHORTS: DIASPORA SHORTS SHOWCASE
Produced by B3 media
A short film showcase featuring the best in short films from the UK’s Black and Asian filmmakers. Shot on film and digitally the showcase will provide a unique opportunity to discover tomorrow’s hot talent today.
Curzon Mayfair Saturday 12 July 11am £3
COWBOY BE-BOP: the Movie
Shinichiro Watanabe/Japan/2003/115mins/English subtitles/Cert 12A
In the days leading up to Halloween 2071 the bounty hunting crew of the spaceship BeBop are bored and broke. This Bladerunner-esque post-modern anime epic delights with its goony touches and unexpected delicacy.
ICA Saturday 12 July 2pm & 10.30pm £6.50/£5.50
HOOVER STREET REVIVAL
Sophie Fiennes/US/2002/100mins/Cert U
This unique and innovative film takes as its subject life, death and the Word of God as experienced around Greater Bethany Community Church, in the notorious South Central, LA.
Includes Q&A with director Sophie Fiennes
The Other Cinema Saturday 12 July 6.30pm £7/£4
SUNDAY 13 JULY
'MY FAVORITE FILM': THE THIRD MAN
Carol Reed/US/1949/105mins/cert U
Playwright and critic Bonnie Greer introduces a special showing of her favourite film: Carol Reed’s classic THE THIRD MAN. Interviewed by Peter Curran from BBC LDN The Big Picture 94.9FM.
Curzon Mayfair Sunday 13 July 1pm £6
Double Bill
HAMMAM - THE TURKISH BATH
Ferzan Ozpetek/Italy-Turkey-Spain/1997/98mins/English subtitles/Cert 15
Rome interior designer Francesco leaves his fading marriage behind when he travels to Istanbul to assess the inheritance left by his aunt, an old-fashioned Turkish bath (or 'hammam').
+ IGNORANT FAIRIES
Ferzan Ozpetek/Italy/2001/105mins/English subtitles/Cert 15
Stefano Accorsi, Margherita Buy.
Contrasting lifestyles and unveiling desires, the third film from Turkish-born director Ozpetek is his first based fully in Italy. An affluent thirtysomething doctor (Buy) is distraught after the death of her husband and shocked to discover that he had long-term male lover.
Rio Cinema Sunday 13 July 2pm £7/£5.50
KIRIKOU – THE SORCERESS
Michael Ocelot/ France/1998/74mins/Cert U
The tiny Kirikou is born into an African village upon which a sorceress called Karaba has cast a terrible spell. His adventure-filled voyage leads him to the forbidden mountain, where the wise man of the mountain, who knows of Karaba and her secrets awaits him. Kirikou's stunning visuals are accented by a traditional music soundtrack by African music giant Youssou N'Dour of Senegal.
plus face painters and live African drumming and Q&A with Michael Ocelot.
Ritzy Cinema Sunday 13 July 4.30pm £5
BROWN SUGAR EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW SCREENING
Rick Famuyiwa/US/2002/109mins/cert 12A
Starring: Taye Diggs, Sanaa Lathan, Mos Def, Queen Latifah. Dre and Sidney attribute their friendship and their careers to a single moment - the day they discovered hip-hop. Now some 15 years later, as they lay down the tracks toward their futures, hip-hop isn't the only thing that keeps them coming back to that moment.
Ritzy Brixton Sunday 13 July 7pm £7/£4
MONDAY 14 JULY
BREATH CONTROL: HISTORY OF THE HUMAN BEAT BOX
Joey Garfield/ 2002/ US/ 74mins/cert 15
Forget samplers, drum machines and devices: this is the real deal. Going back as far as the DJ and breakdancing in Hip Hop culture is the art of making music using just the human voice. The first documentary on this skill, using new interviews with those involved, including Doug E. Fresh, Biz Markie (The Diabolical) and The Fat Boys. + Diaspora Shorts
The Other Cinema Monday 14 July 7pm £4
TUESDAY 15 JULY
ONE LOVE LONDON PREMIERE
Rick Elgood & Don Letts/Jamaica/2003/tbc mins/cert tbc
Starring Ky-Mani Marley, Cherine Anderson and Vas Blackwood. A contemporary Jamaican 'Romeo and Juliet', One Love tells the tale of young Rasta reggae musician Kassa and Serena, the gospel singing daughter of a Pentecostal preacher who are brought together through their mutual love of music. Introduced by the directors.
Curzon Mayfair Tuesday 15 July 6.30pm £8.50
MON-RAK TRANSISTOR (A Transistor Love Story)
Pen-ek Ratanaruang/Thailand/2001/120mins/English subtitles/Cert 15
From the producers of Tears of the Black Tiger comes the perfect summer movie, a potent blend of Elvis Presley-style musical, love story and poisonous social satire in Hysteric Glamour t-shirts.
ICA ALL WEEK 8.45pm £6.50/£5.50
WEDNESDAY 16 JULY
THE MAKING OF 1 GIANT LEAP EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW
Duncan Bridgeman, Jamie Catto/UK/2002/155min/cert PG
In 2001, Jamie Catto, film-maker and founding member of Faithless and artist/producer Duncan Bridgeman, joined forces to create the project, 1 Giant Leap. They embarked upon a journey of 25 countries including Senegal, Ghana, South Africa, Uganda, India, Australia, the United States and United Kingdom, equipped solely with a digital camera and a laptop. This is the story of that journey.
+ Diaspora Shorts and masterclass Q&A with Jamie Catto and Duncan Bridgeman
The Other Cinema Wednesday 16 July 6.30pm £7/£4
THURSDAY 17 JULY
STANDING IN THE SHADOWS OF MOTOWN CLOSING NIGHT GALA
Paul Justman /US/2002/116mins/cert PG
Their music is famous around the world, though their names are not. Known as the Funk Brothers, they put the soul into the hits of such legendary performers as Diana Ross and the Supremes, Marvin Gaye and Stevie Wonder. Standing In The Shadows of Motown tells their story, combining exclusive interviews, archival footage and thrilling new performances, the Funk Brothers backing up Chaka Khan, Ben Harper, Me’shell Ndegeocello, Bootsy Collins.
Ritzy Brixton Thursday 17 July 9pm £7/£4
SPECIAL EVENTS
'23:59' Digital Short Film Competition
Calling all 'guerrilla' filmmakers! The rules are simple: 24 hours to shoot; 24 hours to edit. All you need is an idea, a crew and a weekend. For more information contact info@b3media.co.uk.
Ritzy Brixton 18-20 July
Refugee Short Film Project
In partnership with the Diana Princess of Wales Memorial Fund, the Prince's Trust has supported The Transient Film exchange to bring together a group of young refugees living in London, to produce short hard-hitting dramas shot on video. The films, Scarred, Tasvih and A Long Way from Piccadilly will be shown throughout the week before our features and documentaries.
EDUCATION EVENTS
Produced by Film Education in association with B3 Media, suitable for people with or without knowledge of film. 15 years and above. All seats cost £1.
IN THIS WORLD
Michael Winterbottom/UK/2002/89mins/cert 15
This highly acclaimed film follows Jamal and Enayatullah as they set out to travel overland to London, passing through Iran, Turkey, Italy and France, in a journey which is so arduous and life threatening that one is constantly aware of the desperation that lies behind it. Includes Q&A with screenwriter Tony Grisoni.
Curzon Mayfair Friday 11 July at 10.30am
DIRTY PRETTY THINGS
Stephen Frears/UK /2002/97mins/cert 15
An urban thriller in which an African night porter enlists the help of a prostitute, a chambermaid and a mortuary technician to solve a bizarre murder. Set in a world of asylum seekers that lies behind the familiar urban metropolis, it is a tale of two cities, both set in London. Includes Q&A with Chiwetel Ejiofor (TBC) and Broadcaster Henry Bonsu.
Curzon Mayfair Monday 14 July 10.30am
More information at:
respect Festival
Monday, June 23, 2003
Talking Pictures
Virtual Stuntmen Debut in Hollywood Epic Troy
Oxford technology chosen for Warner Bros production starring Brad Pitt
The first ever Virtual Stuntmen will be used in Troy, the Hollywood Iliad adaptation directed by Wolfgang Petersen, starring Brad Pitt (Fight Club, Seven) as Achilles.
Leading visual effects house The Moving Picture Company chose virtual humans developed by NaturalMotion, an Oxford University spin-off company, to help create ultra-realistic action scenes for the movie.
NaturalMotion's software endorphin, born out of Oxford University Zoology research into human motion, uniquely creates virtual characters whose bodies react exactly like real humans to whatever forces are applied to them - offering infinite and totally realistic reactions to, for example, explosions, falls, punches or whatever else an action scene might require.
endorphin uses NaturalMotion's Active Character Technology, which simulates the actor's brain as well as their body. The virtual actors learn how to move and react using neural networks and artificial evolution. They sense and react to the environment and can be directed just like real actors.
Torsten Reil, CEO of NaturalMotion, was doing a Zoology DPhil in Zoology at Oxford, studying the neurobiology of human motion through computer modelling, when he and his colleagues realised the commercial possibilities of their work. Founded in 2001 with Colm Massey and David Raubenheimer, the company looks set to hit new levels of success with this kind of Hollywood collaboration. "We're proud that MPC have chosen our technology for this project," said Torsten. "endorphin is a powerful piece of software, and with MPC's track record, we're looking forward to some incredible scenes."
Julian Mann of The Moving Picture Company said: "endorphin gives us the ability to identify stunt requirements and generate motion capture in a matter of minutes. The data from endorphin is the perfect complement to traditional motion capture data. endorphin stunt men never sleep, they never need an ambulance and they quite happily work after being decapitated."
Torsten Reil: "We spent a long time teaching our virtual actors the necessary skills for this. It's a great feeling seeing them used in such an impressive project."
Shooting for Troy has started in April. The film will be in cinemas in 2004.
Hmmm...so now there'll be films that will not injure or distress animals AND humans during their making, which is good but the next move is to have virtual audiences who won't drop pop corn or slurp cola all over multi-plex seats.
Virtual Stuntmen Debut in Hollywood Epic Troy
Oxford technology chosen for Warner Bros production starring Brad Pitt
The first ever Virtual Stuntmen will be used in Troy, the Hollywood Iliad adaptation directed by Wolfgang Petersen, starring Brad Pitt (Fight Club, Seven) as Achilles.
Leading visual effects house The Moving Picture Company chose virtual humans developed by NaturalMotion, an Oxford University spin-off company, to help create ultra-realistic action scenes for the movie.
NaturalMotion's software endorphin, born out of Oxford University Zoology research into human motion, uniquely creates virtual characters whose bodies react exactly like real humans to whatever forces are applied to them - offering infinite and totally realistic reactions to, for example, explosions, falls, punches or whatever else an action scene might require.
endorphin uses NaturalMotion's Active Character Technology, which simulates the actor's brain as well as their body. The virtual actors learn how to move and react using neural networks and artificial evolution. They sense and react to the environment and can be directed just like real actors.
Torsten Reil, CEO of NaturalMotion, was doing a Zoology DPhil in Zoology at Oxford, studying the neurobiology of human motion through computer modelling, when he and his colleagues realised the commercial possibilities of their work. Founded in 2001 with Colm Massey and David Raubenheimer, the company looks set to hit new levels of success with this kind of Hollywood collaboration. "We're proud that MPC have chosen our technology for this project," said Torsten. "endorphin is a powerful piece of software, and with MPC's track record, we're looking forward to some incredible scenes."
Julian Mann of The Moving Picture Company said: "endorphin gives us the ability to identify stunt requirements and generate motion capture in a matter of minutes. The data from endorphin is the perfect complement to traditional motion capture data. endorphin stunt men never sleep, they never need an ambulance and they quite happily work after being decapitated."
Torsten Reil: "We spent a long time teaching our virtual actors the necessary skills for this. It's a great feeling seeing them used in such an impressive project."
Shooting for Troy has started in April. The film will be in cinemas in 2004.
Hmmm...so now there'll be films that will not injure or distress animals AND humans during their making, which is good but the next move is to have virtual audiences who won't drop pop corn or slurp cola all over multi-plex seats.
Thursday, June 19, 2003
Talking Pictures
Exploring your Mind
Award winning producers, Undercurrents have just released Evolving Minds, a documentary exploring altered realities. We ask just how useful is a Spiritual path? what is the connection between madness and what we eat? Why were British troops given LSD?
Director of the ground breaking work, Melissa Gunasena asks: "What is reality and who defines it? Within Evolving Minds I offer a fresh perspective on alternatives to the mental health system. By presenting clear information in a humorous style I have covered diverse topics such as shamanism, nutrition, war, psychotherapy, meditation and protest against mental health legislation. I believe this will be useful film for anyone suffering from the stress of todays fast paced world."
Evolving Minds can be viewed here:
http://showcase.commedia.org.uk/article/articleview/354/1/75/
VHS Copies of Evolving Minds are available for purchase from:
http://www.undercurrents.org/minds
Exploring your Mind
Award winning producers, Undercurrents have just released Evolving Minds, a documentary exploring altered realities. We ask just how useful is a Spiritual path? what is the connection between madness and what we eat? Why were British troops given LSD?
Director of the ground breaking work, Melissa Gunasena asks: "What is reality and who defines it? Within Evolving Minds I offer a fresh perspective on alternatives to the mental health system. By presenting clear information in a humorous style I have covered diverse topics such as shamanism, nutrition, war, psychotherapy, meditation and protest against mental health legislation. I believe this will be useful film for anyone suffering from the stress of todays fast paced world."
Evolving Minds can be viewed here:
http://showcase.commedia.org.uk/article/articleview/354/1/75/
VHS Copies of Evolving Minds are available for purchase from:
http://www.undercurrents.org/minds
Wednesday, June 18, 2003
CITIZEN KANE
It's rated by most critics as the greatest movie of all time. Certainly it is Orson Welles' first and best film. To judge for yourself Universal are releasing a freshly re-mastered video and two-disc DVD special edition of this classic. See our review at:
Citizen Kane
It's rated by most critics as the greatest movie of all time. Certainly it is Orson Welles' first and best film. To judge for yourself Universal are releasing a freshly re-mastered video and two-disc DVD special edition of this classic. See our review at:
Citizen Kane
Tuesday, June 17, 2003
Reel Madness Film Festival
Only two days until the launch of the Reel Madness Film Festival
On Saturday 21st June at 7pm Dr Raj Persaud introduces ‘Completely Cuckoo’ in the UK premier of this illuminating documentary about the making of the ground-breaking ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’
‘Completely Cuckoo’ is Charles Kiselyak’s 1988 documentary about the pre-history, the making, and the reception of the film, featuring luminaries such as real hospital psychiatrist Dean R Brooks playing Dr John Spivey; producer Michael Douglas and director Milos Foreman.
To see what the Guardian had to say about the film go to -
film.guardian.co.uk
For tickets call the ICA box office on 020 726 7722
See full details at: www.reelmadness.co.uk
Further info email: sheena@reelmadness.co.uk
Only two days until the launch of the Reel Madness Film Festival
On Saturday 21st June at 7pm Dr Raj Persaud introduces ‘Completely Cuckoo’ in the UK premier of this illuminating documentary about the making of the ground-breaking ‘One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest.’
‘Completely Cuckoo’ is Charles Kiselyak’s 1988 documentary about the pre-history, the making, and the reception of the film, featuring luminaries such as real hospital psychiatrist Dean R Brooks playing Dr John Spivey; producer Michael Douglas and director Milos Foreman.
To see what the Guardian had to say about the film go to -
film.guardian.co.uk
For tickets call the ICA box office on 020 726 7722
See full details at: www.reelmadness.co.uk
Further info email: sheena@reelmadness.co.uk
Monday, June 16, 2003
Talking Pictures
Portobello Film Festival 2003
1 - 18 August 2003
Westbourne Studios Acklam Road London W10
Emslie Hornimans Park Kensal Road London W10
Electric Cinema Portobello Road London W11
The Tabernacle Powis Square London W11
The Portobello Film Festival is unlike any other. This is filmmaking of the raw and, sometimes, rude school, passionate, obsessive, and, above all, experimental.
With a breathtaking programme of over 500 shorts and features, audiences will experience some of the most innovative and culturally diverse filmmaking around. Documentaries, music, animation, drama and travel are just some of the genres featured, others we couldn’t categorise. (Nor would we want to).
Showing everything from “A Tribute To Joe Strummer” featuring rare and unseen Clash footage to the best in new Iranian short filmmaking, from an Extreme Sports selection to an Italian evening, from club films by Pinkypoos and Kinky Gerlinky to an exciting contemporary South African programme.
The Festival climaxes with three days of Megascreen madness in one of Portobello’s superb local parks. This is cinema alfresco at its best, a superbly programmed festival-within-a-festival, featuring everything from family films, to classics, to independent shorts. Sunshine guaranteed.
Free-for-all
Entry to the Festival is free. Free to enter, free to leave, free to think and free to be…
Portobello Film Festival was founded in 1996 as a showcase for Independent film. One of Europe’s largest, it provides a mutually supportive platform on which to show films, share ideas and promote grass-root creativity.Submission policy.
We don’t have one - every film submitted is screened. The festival accepts either shorts or feature length, on DVD and video. We’re especially looking for pieces, which challenge cinematic boundaries but, above all, inspire and motivate others to create film.
Weekly screenings throughout the year.
Find us at portobellofilmfestival.com - where you can download an entry form. Alternatively, we’re at the Video Café, Westbourne Studios, Acklam Road, W10, every Wednesday from 6 – 11pm.
For more info visit their website at:
http://www.portobellofilmfestival.com/pff2003preview.html
Contact Jonathan Barnett on 020 8960 0996
Portobello Film Festival 2003
1 - 18 August 2003
Westbourne Studios Acklam Road London W10
Emslie Hornimans Park Kensal Road London W10
Electric Cinema Portobello Road London W11
The Tabernacle Powis Square London W11
The Portobello Film Festival is unlike any other. This is filmmaking of the raw and, sometimes, rude school, passionate, obsessive, and, above all, experimental.
With a breathtaking programme of over 500 shorts and features, audiences will experience some of the most innovative and culturally diverse filmmaking around. Documentaries, music, animation, drama and travel are just some of the genres featured, others we couldn’t categorise. (Nor would we want to).
Showing everything from “A Tribute To Joe Strummer” featuring rare and unseen Clash footage to the best in new Iranian short filmmaking, from an Extreme Sports selection to an Italian evening, from club films by Pinkypoos and Kinky Gerlinky to an exciting contemporary South African programme.
The Festival climaxes with three days of Megascreen madness in one of Portobello’s superb local parks. This is cinema alfresco at its best, a superbly programmed festival-within-a-festival, featuring everything from family films, to classics, to independent shorts. Sunshine guaranteed.
Free-for-all
Entry to the Festival is free. Free to enter, free to leave, free to think and free to be…
Portobello Film Festival was founded in 1996 as a showcase for Independent film. One of Europe’s largest, it provides a mutually supportive platform on which to show films, share ideas and promote grass-root creativity.Submission policy.
We don’t have one - every film submitted is screened. The festival accepts either shorts or feature length, on DVD and video. We’re especially looking for pieces, which challenge cinematic boundaries but, above all, inspire and motivate others to create film.
Weekly screenings throughout the year.
Find us at portobellofilmfestival.com - where you can download an entry form. Alternatively, we’re at the Video Café, Westbourne Studios, Acklam Road, W10, every Wednesday from 6 – 11pm.
For more info visit their website at:
http://www.portobellofilmfestival.com/pff2003preview.html
Contact Jonathan Barnett on 020 8960 0996
Friday, June 13, 2003
London Respect Festival
This year's Mayor's respect free anti-racist festival takes place at the Greenwich Dome on Saturday 19 July and will be dedicated to Stephen Lawrence. respect will be London’s biggest music event this summer and will round off respect week which runs from July 12-19.
The Mayor’s respect week profiles events celebrating London’s rich diversity that are taking place in locations across London in boroughs, arts and cultural centres, museums and galleries. There is a wide-range of indoor and out door activities for all ages and interests. Many events are free and are open to all. Check with individual venues and centres for full details:
Film
respectfilm
A week long season of films celebrating diversity from around the globe will be shown at the Curzon Mayfair, The Other Cinema, Ritzy, Brixton, Genesis, Mile End, and ICA. Highlights include UK premieres of Latino love story Raising Victor Vargas, Jamaican Romeo and Juliet One Love (both at Curzon, Mayfair) and Motown documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown (Ritzy, Brixton). Plus the premieres of three films Scarred, Tavih and A Long Way from Piccadilly, made by and for refugees living in London and funded by the Princess Diana Memorial Fund and The Prince’s Trust (The Other Cinema) .
respectfilm includes special educational events where directors and writers of major films will discuss their work after screenings. For ages 15 and above.
For more details see the http://www.respectfestival.org.uk website or call the cinemas direct.
Curzon Mayfair 020 7495 0500
The Other Cinema 020 7734 1506
Ritzy Brixton 020 7733 2229
Genesis, Mile End 020 7780 2000
ICA 020 7930 3647
This year's Mayor's respect free anti-racist festival takes place at the Greenwich Dome on Saturday 19 July and will be dedicated to Stephen Lawrence. respect will be London’s biggest music event this summer and will round off respect week which runs from July 12-19.
The Mayor’s respect week profiles events celebrating London’s rich diversity that are taking place in locations across London in boroughs, arts and cultural centres, museums and galleries. There is a wide-range of indoor and out door activities for all ages and interests. Many events are free and are open to all. Check with individual venues and centres for full details:
Film
respectfilm
A week long season of films celebrating diversity from around the globe will be shown at the Curzon Mayfair, The Other Cinema, Ritzy, Brixton, Genesis, Mile End, and ICA. Highlights include UK premieres of Latino love story Raising Victor Vargas, Jamaican Romeo and Juliet One Love (both at Curzon, Mayfair) and Motown documentary Standing in the Shadows of Motown (Ritzy, Brixton). Plus the premieres of three films Scarred, Tavih and A Long Way from Piccadilly, made by and for refugees living in London and funded by the Princess Diana Memorial Fund and The Prince’s Trust (The Other Cinema) .
respectfilm includes special educational events where directors and writers of major films will discuss their work after screenings. For ages 15 and above.
For more details see the http://www.respectfestival.org.uk website or call the cinemas direct.
Curzon Mayfair 020 7495 0500
The Other Cinema 020 7734 1506
Ritzy Brixton 020 7733 2229
Genesis, Mile End 020 7780 2000
ICA 020 7930 3647
Plagiarism or coincidence?
I've just posted this article where it is alleged that Hollywood stole a screen writer's idea. Let me know what your views are on this subject. Email me at: valis23a@aol.com.
I've just posted this article where it is alleged that Hollywood stole a screen writer's idea. Let me know what your views are on this subject. Email me at: valis23a@aol.com.
Thursday, June 12, 2003
Bite the Mango Film Festival 2003
20 To 26 June 2003
Experience The Difference
The Bite the Mango Film Festival is back for its ninth year celebrating the very best of world cinema. Presented by the award-winning National Museum of Photography, Film & Television in Bradford, this year the festival promises to serve a real treat for all movie lovers. With premieres, previews, retrospectives, master-classes and seminars by renowned guests, Bite the Mango will this year focus on 'music in film'.
There's a mini retrospective of Indian cinema's favourite, Anil Kapoor and he's sure to end the festival in style by talking about his career on stage at the closing night gala.
As well as the best new talent, Bite the Mango is proud to take an exclusive look at the work of legendary Hindi film maker V. Shantaram. This is a rare opportunity to see Shantaram's work and appreciate a genius at his best. At the time of his death, Shantaram was almost 90 years old and had devoted 73 of those years to Indian cinema.
A season of contemporary Nigerian cinema gets a rare UK outing, the Oscar-nominated but much under-rated Hollywood actor Laurence Fishburne gets a long-overdue retrospective, as does the aforementioned A R Rahman, whose collaboration with Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Don Black brought Bollywood Dreams to London's theatre land.
With a eclectic mix of the latest previews and premieres from Hong Kong, USA, India, UK, South Korea, Belgium, Palestine, France and Japan, Bite the Mango this year lives up to its billing as the leading festival of its kind celebrating the best of cinema from around the globe.
Besides the festival itself the museum itself is well worth a look if you've got a day to spare in Bradford.
For more details of the festival go to:
Bite the Mango Film Festival 2003
20 To 26 June 2003
Experience The Difference
The Bite the Mango Film Festival is back for its ninth year celebrating the very best of world cinema. Presented by the award-winning National Museum of Photography, Film & Television in Bradford, this year the festival promises to serve a real treat for all movie lovers. With premieres, previews, retrospectives, master-classes and seminars by renowned guests, Bite the Mango will this year focus on 'music in film'.
There's a mini retrospective of Indian cinema's favourite, Anil Kapoor and he's sure to end the festival in style by talking about his career on stage at the closing night gala.
As well as the best new talent, Bite the Mango is proud to take an exclusive look at the work of legendary Hindi film maker V. Shantaram. This is a rare opportunity to see Shantaram's work and appreciate a genius at his best. At the time of his death, Shantaram was almost 90 years old and had devoted 73 of those years to Indian cinema.
A season of contemporary Nigerian cinema gets a rare UK outing, the Oscar-nominated but much under-rated Hollywood actor Laurence Fishburne gets a long-overdue retrospective, as does the aforementioned A R Rahman, whose collaboration with Andrew Lloyd Webber and lyricist Don Black brought Bollywood Dreams to London's theatre land.
With a eclectic mix of the latest previews and premieres from Hong Kong, USA, India, UK, South Korea, Belgium, Palestine, France and Japan, Bite the Mango this year lives up to its billing as the leading festival of its kind celebrating the best of cinema from around the globe.
Besides the festival itself the museum itself is well worth a look if you've got a day to spare in Bradford.
For more details of the festival go to:
Bite the Mango Film Festival 2003
Talking Pictures
The Wrong Turn
A new feature of WRONG TURN is now viewable at:
Wrong Turn
There are regional screenings of the Wrong Turn planned for Blackpool, Coventry, Liverpool, Newcastle, Southampton and Stoke on Trent.
The Wrong Turn
A new feature of WRONG TURN is now viewable at:
Wrong Turn
There are regional screenings of the Wrong Turn planned for Blackpool, Coventry, Liverpool, Newcastle, Southampton and Stoke on Trent.
Talking Pictures
Debates and talks at the Reel Madness Film Festival
19th – 22nd June 2003, ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art), London
www.reelmadness.co.uk
The Politics of Madness
Saturday 21st June at 5pm
The history of psychiatry has been a mixture of scientific advances and social control. What constitutes a mental illness often says as much about the state of society as the state of medical knowledge. Peter Campbell, founder of Survivors Speak Out, and Professor Graham Thornicroft, Professor of Community Psychiatry at the Institute of Psychiatry, kick off this debate by outlining - with film footage - key developments of the past forty years: new treatments; significant legal and policy changes; the expansion of activism and medical developments.
The panel will then reflect upon the 'Politics of Madness'. Will advances in understanding genetics deliver long-awaited wonder drugs, or just create a genetic underclass? Are there any positive implications of receiving a mental health diagnosis? Is there space for separatist politics within the politics of madness, for example, should survivors follow the lead of other rights movements and create a 'mad only' culture in regards to identity, rights and arts? Is discrimination best tackled by promoting greater understanding of mental distress or by challenging stereotypes?
Panelists represent viewpoints from both individuals with direct experience of mental distress, and those with background in a mental health profession, bringing an vital diversity of opinion and experience to the debate. Panelists include Paul Gray (Mental Health Consultant & Project Co-ordinator of Unlocking Potential), Shushrut Jadhav (Senior Lecturer in Cross-Cultural Psychiatry at University College London & Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist at St Pancras Hospital, London), John Bowis (former Minister with responsibility for Mental Health and MEP), and Andrew McCulloch (Chief Executive, Mental Health Foundation).
Madness on Film
Thursday 19th June at 7.30pm
Filmmakers from different cinematic traditions have portrayed and interpreted madness in many different ways, sometimes helping to further our understanding and at other times reinforcing our prejudices and sacrificing integrity for the sake of offering entertainment. This talk focuses on the ways in which the representation of madness in both drama and non-fiction has been constantly changing, and questions the relationship such portrayals have with both our scientific and social understanding of mental illness. There is an important focus on discussing the ethical decisions that must often face a filmmaker working with this subject matter.
Against the backdrop of numerous film clips, a panel will explore one of the central themes of this year's festival. Guests include filmmaker Andy Lee, whose recent documentary “Being Bonkers” for Channel 4 told his personal story of being misdiagnosed as having schizophrenia and being sectioned in a Psychiatric Hospital. Alison Cowen will also talk about her experience of being filmed by the BBC for a film documenting her experiences of clinical depression. Dinesh Bhugra is Professor of Mental Health and Cultural Diversity at the Institute of Psychiatry and has written and talked extensively about the portrayal of mental illness in cinema. Dr Cleo Van Velson has written on violence and the therapist-patient relationship as portrayed in feature films.
Psychosurgery
Friday 20th June at 5.30pm
This talk includes a screening of It’s a Bit Frightening, a documentary made in 1976 and screened on Yorkshire Television. The film takes a close look at a very personal subject: we literally look inside Margaret’s head as she undergoes psychosurgery, a procedure intended to calm her fits of violent rage. The filmmakers also probe – although more gently - asking Margaret, her children and friends about her life, her community, and her “condition”. They also press the surgeon about how much anyone fully understands, at this stage, the operation he is about to perform. The surgeon’s have-a-go approach is perhaps as frightening as the Clockwork Orange-style surgery shots that follow.
The film is dated in filmic style, but it still packs a punch. We’ve invited the film’s executive producer Duncan Dallas to take part in a Q&A with the audience after the screening, offering his account of making the film and of being a part of that particular period in Margaret’s life. With him will be Dr Trevor Turner, a consultant psychiatrist from Homerton Hospital, discussing the context of psychosurgery. Why was it an accepted procedure during that era? How is psychosurgery practiced now? What’s the relationship between this most medical of procedures and the deeply personal aspects of who we are and how we relate to others?
Reel Madness is the first national festival dedicated to exploring portrayals of mind and madness on film and will be taking place at the ICA (Institute of Contemporary Arts), The Mall, London from June 19-22nd 2003.
All details of the films can be found at:
www.reelmadness.co.uk
The ICA Box Office is now accepting bookings.
Ring 020 7930 3647 to book your tickets (UKP6.50/5.00/4.50).
Reel Madness festival office: Tel 020 7267 7722 / email: info@reelmadness.co.uk
Debates and talks at the Reel Madness Film Festival
19th – 22nd June 2003, ICA (Institute of Contemporary Art), London
www.reelmadness.co.uk
The Politics of Madness
Saturday 21st June at 5pm
The history of psychiatry has been a mixture of scientific advances and social control. What constitutes a mental illness often says as much about the state of society as the state of medical knowledge. Peter Campbell, founder of Survivors Speak Out, and Professor Graham Thornicroft, Professor of Community Psychiatry at the Institute of Psychiatry, kick off this debate by outlining - with film footage - key developments of the past forty years: new treatments; significant legal and policy changes; the expansion of activism and medical developments.
The panel will then reflect upon the 'Politics of Madness'. Will advances in understanding genetics deliver long-awaited wonder drugs, or just create a genetic underclass? Are there any positive implications of receiving a mental health diagnosis? Is there space for separatist politics within the politics of madness, for example, should survivors follow the lead of other rights movements and create a 'mad only' culture in regards to identity, rights and arts? Is discrimination best tackled by promoting greater understanding of mental distress or by challenging stereotypes?
Panelists represent viewpoints from both individuals with direct experience of mental distress, and those with background in a mental health profession, bringing an vital diversity of opinion and experience to the debate. Panelists include Paul Gray (Mental Health Consultant & Project Co-ordinator of Unlocking Potential), Shushrut Jadhav (Senior Lecturer in Cross-Cultural Psychiatry at University College London & Honorary Consultant Psychiatrist at St Pancras Hospital, London), John Bowis (former Minister with responsibility for Mental Health and MEP), and Andrew McCulloch (Chief Executive, Mental Health Foundation).
Madness on Film
Thursday 19th June at 7.30pm
Filmmakers from different cinematic traditions have portrayed and interpreted madness in many different ways, sometimes helping to further our understanding and at other times reinforcing our prejudices and sacrificing integrity for the sake of offering entertainment. This talk focuses on the ways in which the representation of madness in both drama and non-fiction has been constantly changing, and questions the relationship such portrayals have with both our scientific and social understanding of mental illness. There is an important focus on discussing the ethical decisions that must often face a filmmaker working with this subject matter.
Against the backdrop of numerous film clips, a panel will explore one of the central themes of this year's festival. Guests include filmmaker Andy Lee, whose recent documentary “Being Bonkers” for Channel 4 told his personal story of being misdiagnosed as having schizophrenia and being sectioned in a Psychiatric Hospital. Alison Cowen will also talk about her experience of being filmed by the BBC for a film documenting her experiences of clinical depression. Dinesh Bhugra is Professor of Mental Health and Cultural Diversity at the Institute of Psychiatry and has written and talked extensively about the portrayal of mental illness in cinema. Dr Cleo Van Velson has written on violence and the therapist-patient relationship as portrayed in feature films.
Psychosurgery
Friday 20th June at 5.30pm
This talk includes a screening of It’s a Bit Frightening, a documentary made in 1976 and screened on Yorkshire Television. The film takes a close look at a very personal subject: we literally look inside Margaret’s head as she undergoes psychosurgery, a procedure intended to calm her fits of violent rage. The filmmakers also probe – although more gently - asking Margaret, her children and friends about her life, her community, and her “condition”. They also press the surgeon about how much anyone fully understands, at this stage, the operation he is about to perform. The surgeon’s have-a-go approach is perhaps as frightening as the Clockwork Orange-style surgery shots that follow.
The film is dated in filmic style, but it still packs a punch. We’ve invited the film’s executive producer Duncan Dallas to take part in a Q&A with the audience after the screening, offering his account of making the film and of being a part of that particular period in Margaret’s life. With him will be Dr Trevor Turner, a consultant psychiatrist from Homerton Hospital, discussing the context of psychosurgery. Why was it an accepted procedure during that era? How is psychosurgery practiced now? What’s the relationship between this most medical of procedures and the deeply personal aspects of who we are and how we relate to others?
Reel Madness is the first national festival dedicated to exploring portrayals of mind and madness on film and will be taking place at the ICA (Institute of Contemporary Arts), The Mall, London from June 19-22nd 2003.
All details of the films can be found at:
www.reelmadness.co.uk
The ICA Box Office is now accepting bookings.
Ring 020 7930 3647 to book your tickets (UKP6.50/5.00/4.50).
Reel Madness festival office: Tel 020 7267 7722 / email: info@reelmadness.co.uk
Monday, June 09, 2003
Talking Pictures
Middle-earth to land at the Science Museum
The Science Museum today announced its next blockbuster exhibition - The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition.
The family exhibition, which will open before the eagerly awaited final
instalment of the film trilogy this Autumn, will allow visitors to explore
for themselves the fantastic world created for the Lord of the Rings films.
Props, costumes and artefacts from the films - including samples of the
models, armoury, animatronics and miniatures - will feature alongside
interactive computer and mechanical demonstrations of the cutting-edge technology used to bring the story to life.
The exhibition, which will run from 16 September 2003 to 11 January 2004, is expected to be a huge success.
Tickets for the Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition
will go on sale later in the summer.
The exhibition is developed and presented by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in partnership with New Line Cinema.
The Science Museum is currently both London Tourist Board Visitor Attraction of the Year and English Tourism Council Visitor Attraction of the Year.
Middle-earth to land at the Science Museum
The Science Museum today announced its next blockbuster exhibition - The Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition.
The family exhibition, which will open before the eagerly awaited final
instalment of the film trilogy this Autumn, will allow visitors to explore
for themselves the fantastic world created for the Lord of the Rings films.
Props, costumes and artefacts from the films - including samples of the
models, armoury, animatronics and miniatures - will feature alongside
interactive computer and mechanical demonstrations of the cutting-edge technology used to bring the story to life.
The exhibition, which will run from 16 September 2003 to 11 January 2004, is expected to be a huge success.
Tickets for the Lord of the Rings Motion Picture Trilogy - The Exhibition
will go on sale later in the summer.
The exhibition is developed and presented by the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa in partnership with New Line Cinema.
The Science Museum is currently both London Tourist Board Visitor Attraction of the Year and English Tourism Council Visitor Attraction of the Year.
Talking Pictures
Dustbingate Movie Project
Optioned by Norfilms ahead of Hollywood studio.
British movie project "Dustbingate", based on the true story of the political scandal that almost brought the British government down in 1998, has been optioned by indie production co. Northern Filmmakers (Norfilms.com) in an agreement that's going to make its original participants even richer then before. Although one Hollywood studio has been reaching out to the writers for the option Norfilms beat them to the deal in a flurry of activity in just seven days of discussion and meetings.
This true tale tells of how a handful of night shift factory workers beat professional investigative journalists to the story of local sleaze surrounding property dealings involving British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and his son. The resulting scandal made the world's headlines for ten days in 1998 and eventually reached the House of Commons.
Although everyone thought at the time that the men involved were intent of some vendetta to destroy John Prescott's reputation or some socialist attempt to overthrow the New Labour government of Tony Blair the truth was far simpler - the lads just wanted a way to break out of their dead-end jobs and lives. As a result of breaking the story themselves the lads went on to earn enough money from the book of their story to change their lives forever.
Norfilms expect that the film will have a comparable return on investment to other British comedy movies of recent years. A consortium of private investors have already expressed interest in backing the project.. The producer's next step is to find a director suitable for the story and its commercial potential at the world box offices.
Not surprisingly, the government haven't commented. I'm sure Prescott is likely to give it two fingers.
Further details are available at the company's web site: www.norfilms.com/
Dustbingate Movie Project
Optioned by Norfilms ahead of Hollywood studio.
British movie project "Dustbingate", based on the true story of the political scandal that almost brought the British government down in 1998, has been optioned by indie production co. Northern Filmmakers (Norfilms.com) in an agreement that's going to make its original participants even richer then before. Although one Hollywood studio has been reaching out to the writers for the option Norfilms beat them to the deal in a flurry of activity in just seven days of discussion and meetings.
This true tale tells of how a handful of night shift factory workers beat professional investigative journalists to the story of local sleaze surrounding property dealings involving British Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott and his son. The resulting scandal made the world's headlines for ten days in 1998 and eventually reached the House of Commons.
Although everyone thought at the time that the men involved were intent of some vendetta to destroy John Prescott's reputation or some socialist attempt to overthrow the New Labour government of Tony Blair the truth was far simpler - the lads just wanted a way to break out of their dead-end jobs and lives. As a result of breaking the story themselves the lads went on to earn enough money from the book of their story to change their lives forever.
Norfilms expect that the film will have a comparable return on investment to other British comedy movies of recent years. A consortium of private investors have already expressed interest in backing the project.. The producer's next step is to find a director suitable for the story and its commercial potential at the world box offices.
Not surprisingly, the government haven't commented. I'm sure Prescott is likely to give it two fingers.
Further details are available at the company's web site: www.norfilms.com/
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