“… plays like a tribute to the very best of Ealing and Bill Forsyth” – Channel 4
“Very funny! Warm, sweet.....” – New York Times
THE RECIPIENT of a host of national and international awards - including the Audience Award (World Cinema) at the Sundance Film Festival - ‘Seducing Dr Lewis’ is the hugely acclaimed new comedy that has been delighting audiences wherever it has played. Fresh from its successful UK theatrical opening courtesy of Dogwoof Productions, Warner Vision is now delighted to announce that the title will be released on DVD on 26th June.
Directed by Jean-François Pouliot, ‘Seducing Dr Lewis’ is a charming and very funny take on truth and falsehood that follows in the hallowed footsteps of the likes of ‘The Full Monty’ and ‘Local Hero’. It has the rare distinction of being selected for Sundance, Cannes (Closing Night, Director’s Fortnight) and Toronto (Special Presentation). In French Canada, the film grossed over an incredible $8 million, topping the likes of ‘The Matrix Reloaded’.
‘Seducing Dr Lewis’ was produced in Canada and is filmed in French with English subtitles.
In the little harbour village of St-Marie-La-Mauderne, the vanishing fish stocks have had a devastating impact on the once thriving community. When a small company considers building a factory on the island, the inhabitants see an opportunity for the village to be restored to greatness. There is just one fly in the ointment - the factory cannot be built without a resident doctor.
The situation seems hopeless until young, handsome and sophisticated Montreal-based physician Dr Lewis (David Boutin) has an unfortunate incident with a traffic cop and strikes a deal to spend a month on the island.
Led by their mayor, Germain Lesage (Raymond Bouchard), the villagers determine to make sure that Dr Lewis’ temporary stay becomes a permanent one. From tapped phones to a hastily assembled cricket team to something called Festival de Beef Stroganoff, they’ll do everything they can to convince the doc that their little town offers all the charms of a thriving metropolis.
However, as their deception continues, so it becomes increasingly difficult to maintain.
Release Date: 26 June 2006
Cat No: 51011-4424-2
Certificate: 15
Running Time: 104 minutes
Retail Price: £17.99
Audio: Dolby Digital 5.1 surround and DTS 5.1 surround
Subtitles: English
Bonus Features: Theatrical Trailer, Photo Gallery, Theatrical Poster
Thursday, June 22, 2006
J-HORROR - REINCARNATION
From the people who brought you the original Ring trilogy, the Ju-On movies, Dark
Water and the re-make of The Grudge, comes an exciting new wave of films that will
once again re-invigorate the horror genre and prove that Japanese cinema has lost
none of its ability to scare the living sushi out of audiences.
Takashige “Taka” Ichise, the producer of these hugely successful movies, all of
which have spawned Hollywood remakes, is currently producing a new ongoing
series of six horror films under the banner of J-Horror. Three films have already been completed and will be released on DVD courtesy of Tartan Video Asia Extreme.
Premonition is available on 26 June 2006, Infection on 24 July 2006 and
Reincarnation the third in the series will be released on 21August 2006.
REINCARNATION
RELEASE DATE: 21 AUGUST 2006
RRP: £19.99
From acclaimed director Takashi Shimizu (The Grudge) comes the
third instalment of the J-Horror series. On the set of a film based on a
series of horrific murders committed during the 1970s, a young actress
begins to experience the murders as if they were actually happening
around her.When she discovers of a mysterious 8mm camera and has
it developed, it leads to a string of terrifying consequences. This atmospheric and
involving mystery is a supernatural whodunit directed with consummate style.
Special Features: DTS Digital 5.1 Surround, Original Theatrical Trailer, Tartan
Trailer Reel.
INFECTION - RELEASE DATE: 27 JULY 2006
RRP: £19.99
A patient in a hospital dies due to malpractice. In a panic, the doctors responsible
stage a cover-up. Shortly thereafter, another patient is left at the hospital doors dying of bizarre symptoms. When the patient dies, the doctors involved in the cover-up begin acting strangely…then one by one develop the same mysterious and deadly symptoms.
PREMONITION – OUT NOW
RRP: £19.99
Premonition sees director Norio Tsuruta (Ring 0) weave a chilling tale of a man who
can foresee the future.
Water and the re-make of The Grudge, comes an exciting new wave of films that will
once again re-invigorate the horror genre and prove that Japanese cinema has lost
none of its ability to scare the living sushi out of audiences.
Takashige “Taka” Ichise, the producer of these hugely successful movies, all of
which have spawned Hollywood remakes, is currently producing a new ongoing
series of six horror films under the banner of J-Horror. Three films have already been completed and will be released on DVD courtesy of Tartan Video Asia Extreme.
Premonition is available on 26 June 2006, Infection on 24 July 2006 and
Reincarnation the third in the series will be released on 21August 2006.
REINCARNATION
RELEASE DATE: 21 AUGUST 2006
RRP: £19.99
From acclaimed director Takashi Shimizu (The Grudge) comes the
third instalment of the J-Horror series. On the set of a film based on a
series of horrific murders committed during the 1970s, a young actress
begins to experience the murders as if they were actually happening
around her.When she discovers of a mysterious 8mm camera and has
it developed, it leads to a string of terrifying consequences. This atmospheric and
involving mystery is a supernatural whodunit directed with consummate style.
Special Features: DTS Digital 5.1 Surround, Original Theatrical Trailer, Tartan
Trailer Reel.
INFECTION - RELEASE DATE: 27 JULY 2006
RRP: £19.99
A patient in a hospital dies due to malpractice. In a panic, the doctors responsible
stage a cover-up. Shortly thereafter, another patient is left at the hospital doors dying of bizarre symptoms. When the patient dies, the doctors involved in the cover-up begin acting strangely…then one by one develop the same mysterious and deadly symptoms.
PREMONITION – OUT NOW
RRP: £19.99
Premonition sees director Norio Tsuruta (Ring 0) weave a chilling tale of a man who
can foresee the future.
Tuesday, May 16, 2006
Nostradamus
TV debut for 'chancer' Nostradamus
He has been credited with predicting the death of kings, the rise of tyrants and catastrophes like 9/11, but Nostradamus was just a 'chancer', according to the man who has brought the prophet of doom to the small screen.
Scriptwriter John Milne, a lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, has uncovered the myth and speculation behind the legendary figure in the Discovery Channel's first ever factual drama, tomorrow night (Wednesday 17 May, 2006, 9pm).
The lecturer of English says Nostradamus, whose cryptic poems are still claimed by some to have predicted events from the rise of Hitler to the destruction of the space shuttle Challenger, was handsome, charming and an opportunist, contrary to public opinion.
Bermondsey-born John said:
"People have an image of Nostradamus as an old man; a wizard-type figure with white hair and a long beard, but we've portrayed him as a handsome young man, a bit of a charmer really. He was a complex personality though, and the programme is about revealing the person behind the myth.
"It's a real historical story of a man who was involved in some amazing events. It explores his relationship with the French Queen, Catherine de Medici, and how he predicted the death of King Henry II, who was killed when a lance punctured his eye."
The programme, which stars Oliver Dimsdale (He Knew He Was Right) as the prophet and Kerry Fox (Shallow Grave, Waking the Dead) as Catherine de Medici, is based on actual events and information from historical documents and private journals.
"It's a fascinating story, but in my opinion, Nostradamus was just a plague doctor who took his chance. In an age of global terror, his predictions still strike a chord because they seem to address some deep-seated need in human nature to find a way to explain seemingly inexplicable events; the feeling that there could be something more out there".
Born Michel de Nostredame in 1503, Nostradamus has become one of the world's most widely known and read prophets. He wrote 942 cryptic 'quatrains', which he organised into 'Centuries'.
John Milne has written for The Bill, Silent Witness and Waking the Dead. His other television credits include episodes of Bergerac, Eastenders, Lovejoy and Taggart. Also a novelist, John's first book Tyro was published in 1982. His other works include Out of the Blue, which won the John Llewellyn Rhys Award in 1985, Daddy's Girl and Alive and Kicking.
He is currently writing a biopic on the early life of Karol Wojtyla, Pope John Paul II for BBC/Wall to Wall TV.
'Nostradamus' (Menthorn Films/Discovery Channel) is on the Discovery Channel on Wednesday 17 May at 9pm.
He has been credited with predicting the death of kings, the rise of tyrants and catastrophes like 9/11, but Nostradamus was just a 'chancer', according to the man who has brought the prophet of doom to the small screen.
Scriptwriter John Milne, a lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University, has uncovered the myth and speculation behind the legendary figure in the Discovery Channel's first ever factual drama, tomorrow night (Wednesday 17 May, 2006, 9pm).
The lecturer of English says Nostradamus, whose cryptic poems are still claimed by some to have predicted events from the rise of Hitler to the destruction of the space shuttle Challenger, was handsome, charming and an opportunist, contrary to public opinion.
Bermondsey-born John said:
"People have an image of Nostradamus as an old man; a wizard-type figure with white hair and a long beard, but we've portrayed him as a handsome young man, a bit of a charmer really. He was a complex personality though, and the programme is about revealing the person behind the myth.
"It's a real historical story of a man who was involved in some amazing events. It explores his relationship with the French Queen, Catherine de Medici, and how he predicted the death of King Henry II, who was killed when a lance punctured his eye."
The programme, which stars Oliver Dimsdale (He Knew He Was Right) as the prophet and Kerry Fox (Shallow Grave, Waking the Dead) as Catherine de Medici, is based on actual events and information from historical documents and private journals.
"It's a fascinating story, but in my opinion, Nostradamus was just a plague doctor who took his chance. In an age of global terror, his predictions still strike a chord because they seem to address some deep-seated need in human nature to find a way to explain seemingly inexplicable events; the feeling that there could be something more out there".
Born Michel de Nostredame in 1503, Nostradamus has become one of the world's most widely known and read prophets. He wrote 942 cryptic 'quatrains', which he organised into 'Centuries'.
John Milne has written for The Bill, Silent Witness and Waking the Dead. His other television credits include episodes of Bergerac, Eastenders, Lovejoy and Taggart. Also a novelist, John's first book Tyro was published in 1982. His other works include Out of the Blue, which won the John Llewellyn Rhys Award in 1985, Daddy's Girl and Alive and Kicking.
He is currently writing a biopic on the early life of Karol Wojtyla, Pope John Paul II for BBC/Wall to Wall TV.
'Nostradamus' (Menthorn Films/Discovery Channel) is on the Discovery Channel on Wednesday 17 May at 9pm.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Poseidon
Poseidon: The IMAX Experience to open on Thursday 1 June
Epic film digitally re-mastered into The IMAX Experience®
Audiences will be holding their breath for Poseidon: The IMAX Experience to open at the bfi London IMAX Cinema on 1 June. Digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience with proprietary IMAX DMR* (digital re-mastering) technology, Poseidon: The IMAX Experience will debut concurrently with the nationwide 35mm release from Warner Bros. Pictures.
Moviegoers will experience the impact of the rogue wave - a monstrous wall of water over one hundred feet high - on a giant IMAX screen nearly as high. The large 15/70 film frame, combined with the IMAX projection technology and remarkable sound system, will provide bfi London IMAX Cinema moviegoers with an extraordinary cinematic experience.
"Poseidon is a thrill ride," says Academy Award nominated director Wolfgang Petersen. "We want people to feel as though they are on the ship when the giant wave hits. We want to pull them under the water and bring them back up to catch their breath. The IMAX format is so immersive, it's perfectly designed to help draw audiences into the action."
After a rogue wave capsizes a luxury cruise ship in the North Atlantic, a small group of survivors find themselves unlikely allies in the ensuing battle for their lives in Poseidon. Determined to fight their way to the surface, they must forge a path upward through layers of wreckage as the ship continues to sink, drawing upon skills and strengths they didn't even know they had, fighting against time for their own survival and for each other.
Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Virtual Studios, a Radiant Production / Next Entertainment / Irwin Allen Productions / Synthesis Entertainment Production of a Wolfgang Petersen film: Kurt Russell, Josh Lucas and Richard Dreyfuss star in Poseidon, also starring Jacinda Barrett, Emmy Rossum, Mike Vogel, Mia Maestro, Jimmy Bennett and Andre Braugher. Directed by Wolfgang Petersen from a screenplay by Mark Protosevich, based on the novel by Paul Gallico, Poseidon is produced by Wolfgang Petersen, Duncan Henderson, Mike Fleiss and Akiva Goldsman. Kevin Burns, Jon Jashni, Sheila Allen and Benjamin Waisbren are the executive producers. John Seale, A.C.S., A.S.C., is the director of photography; William Sandell, the production designer; and Peter Honess, A.C.E., the editor. Music by Klaus Badelt. Costumes designed by Erica Edell Phillips. Poseidon will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. Certificate 12A TBC (Contains sustained threat and images of death that may disturb).
The bfi London IMAX Cinema is located at South Bank, London SE1. For information on tickets and showtimes, please call 0870 787 2525 or visit the website at www.bfi.org.uk/imax Tickets are on sale now priced £12.00 for adults and £9.75 for concessions. The reduced rate for groups of 10 people or more is £11.00 for adults and £8.75 for concessions.
Epic film digitally re-mastered into The IMAX Experience®
Audiences will be holding their breath for Poseidon: The IMAX Experience to open at the bfi London IMAX Cinema on 1 June. Digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience with proprietary IMAX DMR* (digital re-mastering) technology, Poseidon: The IMAX Experience will debut concurrently with the nationwide 35mm release from Warner Bros. Pictures.
Moviegoers will experience the impact of the rogue wave - a monstrous wall of water over one hundred feet high - on a giant IMAX screen nearly as high. The large 15/70 film frame, combined with the IMAX projection technology and remarkable sound system, will provide bfi London IMAX Cinema moviegoers with an extraordinary cinematic experience.
"Poseidon is a thrill ride," says Academy Award nominated director Wolfgang Petersen. "We want people to feel as though they are on the ship when the giant wave hits. We want to pull them under the water and bring them back up to catch their breath. The IMAX format is so immersive, it's perfectly designed to help draw audiences into the action."
After a rogue wave capsizes a luxury cruise ship in the North Atlantic, a small group of survivors find themselves unlikely allies in the ensuing battle for their lives in Poseidon. Determined to fight their way to the surface, they must forge a path upward through layers of wreckage as the ship continues to sink, drawing upon skills and strengths they didn't even know they had, fighting against time for their own survival and for each other.
Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Virtual Studios, a Radiant Production / Next Entertainment / Irwin Allen Productions / Synthesis Entertainment Production of a Wolfgang Petersen film: Kurt Russell, Josh Lucas and Richard Dreyfuss star in Poseidon, also starring Jacinda Barrett, Emmy Rossum, Mike Vogel, Mia Maestro, Jimmy Bennett and Andre Braugher. Directed by Wolfgang Petersen from a screenplay by Mark Protosevich, based on the novel by Paul Gallico, Poseidon is produced by Wolfgang Petersen, Duncan Henderson, Mike Fleiss and Akiva Goldsman. Kevin Burns, Jon Jashni, Sheila Allen and Benjamin Waisbren are the executive producers. John Seale, A.C.S., A.S.C., is the director of photography; William Sandell, the production designer; and Peter Honess, A.C.E., the editor. Music by Klaus Badelt. Costumes designed by Erica Edell Phillips. Poseidon will be distributed worldwide by Warner Bros. Pictures, a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company. Certificate 12A TBC (Contains sustained threat and images of death that may disturb).
The bfi London IMAX Cinema is located at South Bank, London SE1. For information on tickets and showtimes, please call 0870 787 2525 or visit the website at www.bfi.org.uk/imax Tickets are on sale now priced £12.00 for adults and £9.75 for concessions. The reduced rate for groups of 10 people or more is £11.00 for adults and £8.75 for concessions.
Thursday, May 11, 2006
Finding Yourself
18-year-old award winning director Kate Lane screened short film in Framestore CFC in Oxford Circus, home to the largest visual effects studio in Europe with working credits on Harry Potter, Troy and Cold Mountain.
The 12 minute short film titled ‘Finding Yourself’ attracted a wide diverse audience in search of fresh new talent. Amongst cast and crew, numerous industry professionals attended the screening. Mike Woods, head of production at MobTV comments ‘Excellent sequences that point towards someone who's dedicated and talented.’ Mary Lewis, a former BBC employee adds ‘To make a 12 minute film there never seems to be enough time to squeeze in a good story. ‘Finding Yourself’ achieves that.’
‘Finding Yourself’ is about a young play writer called Rachel (Sasha Jackson) torn between fitting in and being normal, or pursuing her dreams but at a cost of having to sacrifice everything else.
Writer, director, producer and editor Kate Lane was awarded Best short film at the Peter Kittel Film festival for her last film ‘Young Souls.’ She then went on to secure funding for her next project ‘Finding Yourself’ and assembled a strong professional cast and crew. She comments ‘the experience of working in a professional environment enabled me to develop the talent that I acquired as well as grow as a filmmaker.’
Lead actress Sasha Jackson has appeared in commercials as well as TV (ITV, BBC and Channel 4) working alongside Harry Enfield. She has since completed numerous short films and two feature films, one of which is bound for American and European release. Sasha comments on Kate ‘She brought out the best in my performance and took me back to some really tough times in my life and relate those to the situations that Rachel faces, and this helped to bring a realism to the emotions.’
Co-starring with Sasha was Ian Keir Attard, playing Jamie a teenage heartthrob. Ian started his professional career in theatre playing Richard, Duke of York, in Richard III at the Leicester Haymarket and has toured twice to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Ian adds ‘This young film directors enthusiasm and dedication will I’m sure result in more new films of her high quality standard.’
In ‘Finding Yourself’, the young play writer struggles with a mother who believes she is pursuing a hopeless dream. Amanda Fullerton who plays Rachel’s mum has been cast in several short films and a feature. The feature will be distributed in 2006 and will compete at Cannes.
‘Finding Yourself’ deals with universal themes of teenage life. Kate describes the film as ‘a personal journey that is close to my heart. It is inspired by the realities of life and the obstacles that I have encountered as a teenager. The film explores identity and people feeling the need to fit in, in order to feel accepted. It reflects the importance of following the most truthful and honest path we can, even if that means making sacrifices.’
From the age of 7, Kate started as a professional actress for television at Sylvia Young agency, landing roles in commercials, a BBC television series and the hit series Casualty. Then at the age of 13 she discovered her true passion in life, and before even picking up a video camera, she created her company name ‘Heart and Soul Films.’ ‘It is and will always be my aim to make films that affect people and have an emotional response that is more than entertainment. This is why I wanted to be a filmmaker, to tell stories that matter and make a difference.’
The film was shot in four days in her local town Watford. A great team was pulled together including Andrew Mott, the Director of Photography. With 25 years of experience working for the BBC TV center, Andrew’s credits include BBC2’s culture show, channel 4’s Saturday night TV, football focus and Blue Peter. Alongside the team is Music composer Dave Loughran whose credits include the Rat Pack in the West End Savoy theatre and work for the Birmingham Rep Theatre.
‘Finding Yourself’ was Executive produced by Chee Keong Cheung of Intense Productions.
Kate has received positive feedback and is exited to be taking it to international festivals. She is now looking to attract a producer and funding for her next project, which will start in July.
For further information on Kate please visit www.heartandsoulfilms.co.uk
The 12 minute short film titled ‘Finding Yourself’ attracted a wide diverse audience in search of fresh new talent. Amongst cast and crew, numerous industry professionals attended the screening. Mike Woods, head of production at MobTV comments ‘Excellent sequences that point towards someone who's dedicated and talented.’ Mary Lewis, a former BBC employee adds ‘To make a 12 minute film there never seems to be enough time to squeeze in a good story. ‘Finding Yourself’ achieves that.’
‘Finding Yourself’ is about a young play writer called Rachel (Sasha Jackson) torn between fitting in and being normal, or pursuing her dreams but at a cost of having to sacrifice everything else.
Writer, director, producer and editor Kate Lane was awarded Best short film at the Peter Kittel Film festival for her last film ‘Young Souls.’ She then went on to secure funding for her next project ‘Finding Yourself’ and assembled a strong professional cast and crew. She comments ‘the experience of working in a professional environment enabled me to develop the talent that I acquired as well as grow as a filmmaker.’
Lead actress Sasha Jackson has appeared in commercials as well as TV (ITV, BBC and Channel 4) working alongside Harry Enfield. She has since completed numerous short films and two feature films, one of which is bound for American and European release. Sasha comments on Kate ‘She brought out the best in my performance and took me back to some really tough times in my life and relate those to the situations that Rachel faces, and this helped to bring a realism to the emotions.’
Co-starring with Sasha was Ian Keir Attard, playing Jamie a teenage heartthrob. Ian started his professional career in theatre playing Richard, Duke of York, in Richard III at the Leicester Haymarket and has toured twice to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Ian adds ‘This young film directors enthusiasm and dedication will I’m sure result in more new films of her high quality standard.’
In ‘Finding Yourself’, the young play writer struggles with a mother who believes she is pursuing a hopeless dream. Amanda Fullerton who plays Rachel’s mum has been cast in several short films and a feature. The feature will be distributed in 2006 and will compete at Cannes.
‘Finding Yourself’ deals with universal themes of teenage life. Kate describes the film as ‘a personal journey that is close to my heart. It is inspired by the realities of life and the obstacles that I have encountered as a teenager. The film explores identity and people feeling the need to fit in, in order to feel accepted. It reflects the importance of following the most truthful and honest path we can, even if that means making sacrifices.’
From the age of 7, Kate started as a professional actress for television at Sylvia Young agency, landing roles in commercials, a BBC television series and the hit series Casualty. Then at the age of 13 she discovered her true passion in life, and before even picking up a video camera, she created her company name ‘Heart and Soul Films.’ ‘It is and will always be my aim to make films that affect people and have an emotional response that is more than entertainment. This is why I wanted to be a filmmaker, to tell stories that matter and make a difference.’
The film was shot in four days in her local town Watford. A great team was pulled together including Andrew Mott, the Director of Photography. With 25 years of experience working for the BBC TV center, Andrew’s credits include BBC2’s culture show, channel 4’s Saturday night TV, football focus and Blue Peter. Alongside the team is Music composer Dave Loughran whose credits include the Rat Pack in the West End Savoy theatre and work for the Birmingham Rep Theatre.
‘Finding Yourself’ was Executive produced by Chee Keong Cheung of Intense Productions.
Kate has received positive feedback and is exited to be taking it to international festivals. She is now looking to attract a producer and funding for her next project, which will start in July.
For further information on Kate please visit www.heartandsoulfilms.co.uk
Monday, May 08, 2006
YOUNG UP AND COMING FILMMAKER PREMIERS SHORT FILM IN LONDON
At the premier. Producer, director Kate Lane stands in the middle of her Director of Photography Andrew Mott and lead actress Sasha Jackson.
London, 7th May 2006 – 18-year-old award winning director Kate Lane screens short film in Framestore CFC in Oxford Circus, home to the largest visual effects studio in Europe with working credits on Harry Potter, Troy and Cold Mountain.
The 12 minute short film titled ‘Finding Yourself’ attracted a wide diverse audience in search of fresh new talent. Amongst cast and crew, numerous industry professionals attended the screening. Mike Woods, head of production at MobTV comments ‘Excellent sequences that point towards someone who's dedicated and talented.’ Mary Lewis, a former BBC employee adds ‘To make a 12 minute film there never seems to be enough time to squeeze in a good story. ‘Finding Yourself’ achieves that.’
‘Finding Yourself’ is about a young play writer called Rachel (Sasha Jackson) torn between fitting in and being normal, or pursuing her dreams but at a cost of having to sacrifice everything else.
Writer, director, producer and editor Kate Lane was awarded Best short film at the Peter Kittel Film festival for her last film ‘Young Souls.’ She then went on to secure funding for her next project ‘Finding Yourself’ and assembled a strong professional cast and crew. She comments ‘the experience of working in a professional environment enabled me to develop the talent that I acquired as well as grow as a filmmaker.’
Lead actress Sasha Jackson has appeared in commercials as well as TV (ITV, BBC and Channel 4) working alongside Harry Enfield. She has since completed numerous short films and a feature film ‘Everything to dance for’ that is now awaiting distribution deals in America. Sasha comments on Kate ‘She brought out the best in my performance and took me back to some really tough times in my life and relate those to the situations that Rachel faces, and this helped to bring a realism to the emotions.’
Co-starring with Sasha was Ian Keir Attard, playing Jamie a teenage heartthrob. Ian started his professional career in theatre playing Richard, Duke of York, in Richard III at the Leicester Haymarket and has toured twice to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Ian adds ‘This young film directors enthusiasm and dedication will I’m sure result in more new films of her high quality standard.’
In ‘Finding Yourself’, the young play writer struggles with a mother who believes she is pursuing a hopeless dream. Amanda Fullerton who plays Rachel’s mum has been cast in several short films and a feature. The feature will be distributed in 2006 and will compete at Cannes.
‘Finding Yourself’ deals with universal themes of teenage life. Kate describes the film as ‘a personal journey that is close to my heart. It is inspired by the realities of life and the obstacles that I have encountered as a teenager. The film explores identity and people feeling the need to fit in, in order to feel accepted. It reflects the importance of following the most truthful and honest path we can, even if that means making sacrifices.’
From the age of 7, Kate started as a professional actress for television at Sylvia Young agency, landing roles in commercials, a BBC television series and the hit series Casualty. Then at the age of 13 she discovered her true passion in life, and before even picking up a video camera, she created her company name ‘Heart and Soul Films.’ ‘It is and will always be my aim to make films that affect people and have an emotional response that is more than entertainment. This is why I wanted to be a filmmaker, to tell stories that matter and make a difference.’
The film was shot in four days in her local town Watford. A great team was pulled together including Andrew Mott, the Director of Photography. With 25 years of experience working for the BBC TV center, Andrew’s credits include BBC2’s culture show, channel 4’s Saturday night TV, football focus and Blue Peter. Alongside the team is Music composer Dave Loughran whose credits include the Rat Pack in the West End Savoy theatre and work for the Birmingham Rep Theatre.
‘Finding Yourself’ was Executive produced by Chee Keong Cheung of Intense Productions.
Kate has received positive feedback and is exited to be taking it to international festivals. She is now looking to attract a producer and funding for her next project, which will start in July.
For further information on Kate please visit www.heartandsoulfilms.co.uk
London, 7th May 2006 – 18-year-old award winning director Kate Lane screens short film in Framestore CFC in Oxford Circus, home to the largest visual effects studio in Europe with working credits on Harry Potter, Troy and Cold Mountain.
The 12 minute short film titled ‘Finding Yourself’ attracted a wide diverse audience in search of fresh new talent. Amongst cast and crew, numerous industry professionals attended the screening. Mike Woods, head of production at MobTV comments ‘Excellent sequences that point towards someone who's dedicated and talented.’ Mary Lewis, a former BBC employee adds ‘To make a 12 minute film there never seems to be enough time to squeeze in a good story. ‘Finding Yourself’ achieves that.’
‘Finding Yourself’ is about a young play writer called Rachel (Sasha Jackson) torn between fitting in and being normal, or pursuing her dreams but at a cost of having to sacrifice everything else.
Writer, director, producer and editor Kate Lane was awarded Best short film at the Peter Kittel Film festival for her last film ‘Young Souls.’ She then went on to secure funding for her next project ‘Finding Yourself’ and assembled a strong professional cast and crew. She comments ‘the experience of working in a professional environment enabled me to develop the talent that I acquired as well as grow as a filmmaker.’
Lead actress Sasha Jackson has appeared in commercials as well as TV (ITV, BBC and Channel 4) working alongside Harry Enfield. She has since completed numerous short films and a feature film ‘Everything to dance for’ that is now awaiting distribution deals in America. Sasha comments on Kate ‘She brought out the best in my performance and took me back to some really tough times in my life and relate those to the situations that Rachel faces, and this helped to bring a realism to the emotions.’
Co-starring with Sasha was Ian Keir Attard, playing Jamie a teenage heartthrob. Ian started his professional career in theatre playing Richard, Duke of York, in Richard III at the Leicester Haymarket and has toured twice to the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Ian adds ‘This young film directors enthusiasm and dedication will I’m sure result in more new films of her high quality standard.’
In ‘Finding Yourself’, the young play writer struggles with a mother who believes she is pursuing a hopeless dream. Amanda Fullerton who plays Rachel’s mum has been cast in several short films and a feature. The feature will be distributed in 2006 and will compete at Cannes.
‘Finding Yourself’ deals with universal themes of teenage life. Kate describes the film as ‘a personal journey that is close to my heart. It is inspired by the realities of life and the obstacles that I have encountered as a teenager. The film explores identity and people feeling the need to fit in, in order to feel accepted. It reflects the importance of following the most truthful and honest path we can, even if that means making sacrifices.’
From the age of 7, Kate started as a professional actress for television at Sylvia Young agency, landing roles in commercials, a BBC television series and the hit series Casualty. Then at the age of 13 she discovered her true passion in life, and before even picking up a video camera, she created her company name ‘Heart and Soul Films.’ ‘It is and will always be my aim to make films that affect people and have an emotional response that is more than entertainment. This is why I wanted to be a filmmaker, to tell stories that matter and make a difference.’
The film was shot in four days in her local town Watford. A great team was pulled together including Andrew Mott, the Director of Photography. With 25 years of experience working for the BBC TV center, Andrew’s credits include BBC2’s culture show, channel 4’s Saturday night TV, football focus and Blue Peter. Alongside the team is Music composer Dave Loughran whose credits include the Rat Pack in the West End Savoy theatre and work for the Birmingham Rep Theatre.
‘Finding Yourself’ was Executive produced by Chee Keong Cheung of Intense Productions.
Kate has received positive feedback and is exited to be taking it to international festivals. She is now looking to attract a producer and funding for her next project, which will start in July.
For further information on Kate please visit www.heartandsoulfilms.co.uk
DVD Releases
THE ASSOCIATES
The Associates received the Agency Of The Year Award at the Home Entertainment Week Awards on Friday night. They thank Anchor Bay UK and Manga for nominating them.
DVD NEWS
THE COLLINGSWOOD STORY (Anchor Bay UK). Availalbe to buy on DVD from 19th June priced £14.99.
Director Michael Costanza is now available for interviews.
The Collingswood Story is an atmospheric supernatural chiller that has already become a 'word of mouth' hit amongst horror fans gradually piles on the tension building to a truly terrifying last twenty minutes that will keep even the most hardened horror fans on the edges of their seats until the film's final, shocking frame.
FEED (Showbox Home Entertainment). Available to buy on DVD from 29th May 2006 priced £15.99.
FEED, Brett Leonard's daring and controversial shocker that employs conventions of the serial killer genre to tackle the morally complex world of 'Feeders' and 'Gainers'.
TRAILER/CLIP OF THE WEEK
SURVIVE STYLE 5+ (Manga). Available to buy on DVD from 29th May 2006 priced £16.99.
Imagine Vinnie Jones Lost in Translation mashed up with a Japanese take on Pulp Fiction and a dash of Brazil and you've got Survive Style 5+, a surrealist comedy thriller that's breathtaking in its confident swagger. It's one of those rare films that keeps rampaging through your head at the most inappropriate moments during the day. Try it out if you suffer from dull meeting syndrome and need a good brain distraction...
High Res:
http://onlinemoviepromo.com/player.php?id=660
Medium Res:
http://onlinemoviepromo.com/player.php?id=659
Low Res:
http://onlinemoviepromo.com/player.php?id=661
RELEASE SCHEDULE
Out this week:
Burst Angel - Volume 3 (MVM)
Flight 93 (High Fliers)
Gungrave - Volume 5 (MVM)
Long Distance (High Fliers)
Tenjho Tenge - Volume 1 ( MVM)
Texhnolyze - Volume 4 (MVM)
Out 15th May:
Ghost In The Shell: STand Alone Complex 2nd GIG - Volume 3 (Manga)
Heat Guy J - Volume 2 (Manga)
Lizard Woman (Anchor Bay UK)
Roseanne - The Complete Third Series (Anchor Bay UK)
Samurai Commando (Momentum Asia)
She Shoots Straight (Hong Kong Legends)
She, The Ultimate Weapon - Volume 1 (Manga)
The Adventures Of Blake and Mortimer (Anchor Bay UK)
The Dead Next Door (Anchor Bay UK)
The Fallen Ones (Anchor Bay UK)
Out 22nd May:
Kung Fu Wonder Child (55th Chamber)
The Flash Legs (55th Chamber)
Attack Of The Joyful Goddess (55th Chamber)
Fausto 5.0 (Nucleus Films)
Gantz - Volume 4 (MVM)
Gunslinger Girl - Volume 2 (MVM)
Paranoia Agent - Volume 4 (MVM)
The Associates received the Agency Of The Year Award at the Home Entertainment Week Awards on Friday night. They thank Anchor Bay UK and Manga for nominating them.
DVD NEWS
THE COLLINGSWOOD STORY (Anchor Bay UK). Availalbe to buy on DVD from 19th June priced £14.99.
Director Michael Costanza is now available for interviews.
The Collingswood Story is an atmospheric supernatural chiller that has already become a 'word of mouth' hit amongst horror fans gradually piles on the tension building to a truly terrifying last twenty minutes that will keep even the most hardened horror fans on the edges of their seats until the film's final, shocking frame.
FEED (Showbox Home Entertainment). Available to buy on DVD from 29th May 2006 priced £15.99.
FEED, Brett Leonard's daring and controversial shocker that employs conventions of the serial killer genre to tackle the morally complex world of 'Feeders' and 'Gainers'.
TRAILER/CLIP OF THE WEEK
SURVIVE STYLE 5+ (Manga). Available to buy on DVD from 29th May 2006 priced £16.99.
Imagine Vinnie Jones Lost in Translation mashed up with a Japanese take on Pulp Fiction and a dash of Brazil and you've got Survive Style 5+, a surrealist comedy thriller that's breathtaking in its confident swagger. It's one of those rare films that keeps rampaging through your head at the most inappropriate moments during the day. Try it out if you suffer from dull meeting syndrome and need a good brain distraction...
High Res:
http://onlinemoviepromo.com/player.php?id=660
Medium Res:
http://onlinemoviepromo.com/player.php?id=659
Low Res:
http://onlinemoviepromo.com/player.php?id=661
RELEASE SCHEDULE
Out this week:
Burst Angel - Volume 3 (MVM)
Flight 93 (High Fliers)
Gungrave - Volume 5 (MVM)
Long Distance (High Fliers)
Tenjho Tenge - Volume 1 ( MVM)
Texhnolyze - Volume 4 (MVM)
Out 15th May:
Ghost In The Shell: STand Alone Complex 2nd GIG - Volume 3 (Manga)
Heat Guy J - Volume 2 (Manga)
Lizard Woman (Anchor Bay UK)
Roseanne - The Complete Third Series (Anchor Bay UK)
Samurai Commando (Momentum Asia)
She Shoots Straight (Hong Kong Legends)
She, The Ultimate Weapon - Volume 1 (Manga)
The Adventures Of Blake and Mortimer (Anchor Bay UK)
The Dead Next Door (Anchor Bay UK)
The Fallen Ones (Anchor Bay UK)
Out 22nd May:
Kung Fu Wonder Child (55th Chamber)
The Flash Legs (55th Chamber)
Attack Of The Joyful Goddess (55th Chamber)
Fausto 5.0 (Nucleus Films)
Gantz - Volume 4 (MVM)
Gunslinger Girl - Volume 2 (MVM)
Paranoia Agent - Volume 4 (MVM)
Lads Guide To Rio
World Cup Winner Ronaldo Launches The Lads Guide To Rio
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo has launched the world’s sexiest travel DVD – The Lads Guide To Rio.
100 minutes of the most beautiful women in the most beautiful location on earth. This is the DVD with the highest booty count all year, or your money back.
Rio’s most famous son Ronaldo gives an exclusive introduction to the Lads Guide, saying: “There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Rio. Brazil is a wonderful country and Rio de Janeiro is THE marvellous city.
“Everything here has great passion. The city, the women, the music and the football. So come and visit our country.”
The Lads Guide to Rio shows the best beaches, clubs and is hosted by three stunning babes. British Page 3 Superbabe Rebekah Teasdale, Dutch Playboy covergirl Rachel Ter Horst and Brazilian beauty Cynthia Howlett-Martin.
From the thongs of Copacabana beach to the naked dancing girls of Rio Carnival, The Lads Guide To Rio will show you exactly where to go for the trip of a lifetime.
Watch Rebekah, Rachel and Cynthia as they investigate the thriving red-light district, trawl through the cities hottest nightspots and discover the secret topless and nude bathing areas – surprisingly it is illegal to sunbathe topless in Brazil.
Also they take us behind the scenes at the Girl From Ipanema Booty Contest, visit the amazing 200,000 capacity Maracana stadium on match day, and see inside some of the funkiest clubs on the planet.
If you’re after a bit of culture there’s a journey round Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the amazing displays of Capoeira, the Brazilian martial art, but you’ll be back in time to see the silky skills of the beach football players and the most jaw-droppingly beautiful women in the world.
The Lads Guide To Rio
Total running time is approx 99 minutes. Special features include an interview with Noel Gallagher, Ronaldo feature and Beach, Ball and Samba Babes.
On sale – July 2006.
RRP £17.99 available from major outlets
Available worldwide from www.theladsguide.com £15.99 plus £2 P+P
Brazilian football legend Ronaldo has launched the world’s sexiest travel DVD – The Lads Guide To Rio.
100 minutes of the most beautiful women in the most beautiful location on earth. This is the DVD with the highest booty count all year, or your money back.
Rio’s most famous son Ronaldo gives an exclusive introduction to the Lads Guide, saying: “There are so many wonderful things to see and do in Rio. Brazil is a wonderful country and Rio de Janeiro is THE marvellous city.
“Everything here has great passion. The city, the women, the music and the football. So come and visit our country.”
The Lads Guide to Rio shows the best beaches, clubs and is hosted by three stunning babes. British Page 3 Superbabe Rebekah Teasdale, Dutch Playboy covergirl Rachel Ter Horst and Brazilian beauty Cynthia Howlett-Martin.
From the thongs of Copacabana beach to the naked dancing girls of Rio Carnival, The Lads Guide To Rio will show you exactly where to go for the trip of a lifetime.
Watch Rebekah, Rachel and Cynthia as they investigate the thriving red-light district, trawl through the cities hottest nightspots and discover the secret topless and nude bathing areas – surprisingly it is illegal to sunbathe topless in Brazil.
Also they take us behind the scenes at the Girl From Ipanema Booty Contest, visit the amazing 200,000 capacity Maracana stadium on match day, and see inside some of the funkiest clubs on the planet.
If you’re after a bit of culture there’s a journey round Sugar Loaf Mountain, and the amazing displays of Capoeira, the Brazilian martial art, but you’ll be back in time to see the silky skills of the beach football players and the most jaw-droppingly beautiful women in the world.
The Lads Guide To Rio
Total running time is approx 99 minutes. Special features include an interview with Noel Gallagher, Ronaldo feature and Beach, Ball and Samba Babes.
On sale – July 2006.
RRP £17.99 available from major outlets
Available worldwide from www.theladsguide.com £15.99 plus £2 P+P
Sunday, May 07, 2006
BRITS WANT TO SHARE A HOTEL ROOM WITH
BRITS WANT TO SHARE A HOTEL ROOM WITH KEIRA KNIGHTLY AND RAY WINSTONE
Keira Knightly and Ray Winstone are the sexy stars most Brits would love to share a hotel room with, according to a new survey.
Travelodge conducted research after being inundated with customer requests at its “Room with a View” trial hotel at London City Airport.
Travelodge’s “Room With A View” pilot is trialling the nation’s favourite views in the form of window transfers. Guests can choose from a Caribbean Beach, the Taj Mahal, Niagara Falls, or the Manhattan skyline.
The trial has created such a buzz at the hotel, that guests have also been requesting images of their favourite celebrity as an alternative choice.
Pride and Prejudice beauty Keira Knightly, 22, topped the poll as the woman most men would like to see in their room.
Knightly shot to fame in the 2002 comedy Bend It Like Beckham and now has a string of hits to her name including Love Actually and Pirates of the Caribbean.
The beautiful Brit babe came ahead of Zorro temptress Catherine Zeta Jones and star of The English patient Juliette Binoche.
Tough guy Ray Winstone romped into first place in the poll as women’s favourite hotel room guest. Winstone, 49, has become a Tinsel Town favourite with lead roles in cult hit Sexy Beast, King Arthur and the hard hitting Nil By Mouth.
The ex-boxer is also the star of hit ITV series Vincent where he plays a tough cop turned private investigator.
Winstone’s rough charm beat another Hollywood hunk, Oscar winning Ocean’s Eleven and Twelve lead George Clooney into second place.
The new James Bond, Daniel Craig, had to settle for third place ahead of Countdown smoothie Des Lynam.
Alex Gibson, London City Airport hotel manager said: “We gave customers the choice of a great view from their room and whilst this was well received we have had lots of requests for their favourite celebrity”.
Travelodge is continuing its trial at London City Airport.
Keira Knightly and Ray Winstone are the sexy stars most Brits would love to share a hotel room with, according to a new survey.
Travelodge conducted research after being inundated with customer requests at its “Room with a View” trial hotel at London City Airport.
Travelodge’s “Room With A View” pilot is trialling the nation’s favourite views in the form of window transfers. Guests can choose from a Caribbean Beach, the Taj Mahal, Niagara Falls, or the Manhattan skyline.
The trial has created such a buzz at the hotel, that guests have also been requesting images of their favourite celebrity as an alternative choice.
Pride and Prejudice beauty Keira Knightly, 22, topped the poll as the woman most men would like to see in their room.
Knightly shot to fame in the 2002 comedy Bend It Like Beckham and now has a string of hits to her name including Love Actually and Pirates of the Caribbean.
The beautiful Brit babe came ahead of Zorro temptress Catherine Zeta Jones and star of The English patient Juliette Binoche.
Tough guy Ray Winstone romped into first place in the poll as women’s favourite hotel room guest. Winstone, 49, has become a Tinsel Town favourite with lead roles in cult hit Sexy Beast, King Arthur and the hard hitting Nil By Mouth.
The ex-boxer is also the star of hit ITV series Vincent where he plays a tough cop turned private investigator.
Winstone’s rough charm beat another Hollywood hunk, Oscar winning Ocean’s Eleven and Twelve lead George Clooney into second place.
The new James Bond, Daniel Craig, had to settle for third place ahead of Countdown smoothie Des Lynam.
Alex Gibson, London City Airport hotel manager said: “We gave customers the choice of a great view from their room and whilst this was well received we have had lots of requests for their favourite celebrity”.
Travelodge is continuing its trial at London City Airport.
Friday, May 05, 2006
DVD Releases
DVDs Out this week:
Dragon Takeaway Box Set (Dragon DVD)
Snuff Bottle Connection (Soulblade)
Out 8th May:
Burst Angel - Volume 3 (MVM)
Flight 93 (High Fliers)
Gungrave - Volume 5 (MVM)
Long Distance (High Fliers)
Tenjho Tenge - Volume 1 ( MVM)
Texhnolyze - Volume 4 (MVM)
Out 15th May:
Demon Hunter (Anchor Bay UK)
Fist From Shaolin (Dragon DVD)
Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd GIG - Volume 3 (Manga)
Heat Guy J - Volume 2 (Manga)
Lizard Woman (Anchor Bay UK)
Roseanne - The Complete Third Series (Anchor Bay UK)
Samurai Commando (Momentum Asia)
Secret RIvals (Soulblade)
She Shoots Straight (Hong Kong Legends)
She, The Ultimate Weapon - Volume 1 (Manga)
The Adventures Of Blake And Mortimer (Anchor Bay UK)
The Dead Next Door (Anchor Bay UK)
The Fallen Ones (Anchor Bay UK)
Dragon Takeaway Box Set (Dragon DVD)
Snuff Bottle Connection (Soulblade)
Out 8th May:
Burst Angel - Volume 3 (MVM)
Flight 93 (High Fliers)
Gungrave - Volume 5 (MVM)
Long Distance (High Fliers)
Tenjho Tenge - Volume 1 ( MVM)
Texhnolyze - Volume 4 (MVM)
Out 15th May:
Demon Hunter (Anchor Bay UK)
Fist From Shaolin (Dragon DVD)
Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex 2nd GIG - Volume 3 (Manga)
Heat Guy J - Volume 2 (Manga)
Lizard Woman (Anchor Bay UK)
Roseanne - The Complete Third Series (Anchor Bay UK)
Samurai Commando (Momentum Asia)
Secret RIvals (Soulblade)
She Shoots Straight (Hong Kong Legends)
She, The Ultimate Weapon - Volume 1 (Manga)
The Adventures Of Blake And Mortimer (Anchor Bay UK)
The Dead Next Door (Anchor Bay UK)
The Fallen Ones (Anchor Bay UK)
Fiona Richmond
A classic threesome starring the 1970s sex icon
Fiona Richmond in...
Exposé
Hardcore
Let’s Get Laid
Fiona Richmond was one of the first true British adult superstars, who mixed raunchy scenes with a healthy dollop of British sauce. Her name is synonymous with sex in the1970s and now, some of her finest outings have been pulled together in a no holds barred threesome.
The titles on offer, Exposé, Hardcore and Let’s Get Laid, feature a cast list that reads like a who’s who of British character actors and range from farcical comedies (Let’s Get Laid, starring, among others Confessions… lead Robin Askwith) to notorious erotic thrillers (Exposé, also known as House On Straw Hill, once on the banned list of video nasties). The DVD will be available courtesy of Village on 12 July 2006.
Exposé (1976)
This psychological thriller has lashings of nudity and violence and features Fiona Richmond in her first screen role. A novelist (Udo Kier) moves to a rural retreat with his highly sexed girlfriend (Richmond) to complete his forthcoming novel. His agent sends a temp secretary (Linda Hayden) to help him meet his deadline, but she is a woman scorned, hell bent on revenge and goes on a murderous rampage. It also stars Karl Howman, Patsy Smart and Vic Armstrong.
Hardcore (1977)
This heavily fictionalised ‘autobiography’ sees Fiona charting her life from vicar's daughter to sexual superstar. Fiona confides her life story to Anthony Steel, from flirtatious schoolgirl, through Soho showgirl to fully fledged star. It also stars Victor Spinetti, Ronald Fraser, Graham Stark and Graham Crowden,.
Let’s Get Laid (1977)
Robin Askwith plays Gordon Laid a demobbed soldier returning home from World War II in this British farce. He meets actress Maxine Lupercal (Richmond) on the ship home and due to a case of mistaken identity becomes embroiled in various murders and an espionage plot.
RRP: £19.99 Catalogue No.: VLG008
Release Date: 12th July 2006
Fiona Richmond in...
Exposé
Hardcore
Let’s Get Laid
Fiona Richmond was one of the first true British adult superstars, who mixed raunchy scenes with a healthy dollop of British sauce. Her name is synonymous with sex in the1970s and now, some of her finest outings have been pulled together in a no holds barred threesome.
The titles on offer, Exposé, Hardcore and Let’s Get Laid, feature a cast list that reads like a who’s who of British character actors and range from farcical comedies (Let’s Get Laid, starring, among others Confessions… lead Robin Askwith) to notorious erotic thrillers (Exposé, also known as House On Straw Hill, once on the banned list of video nasties). The DVD will be available courtesy of Village on 12 July 2006.
Exposé (1976)
This psychological thriller has lashings of nudity and violence and features Fiona Richmond in her first screen role. A novelist (Udo Kier) moves to a rural retreat with his highly sexed girlfriend (Richmond) to complete his forthcoming novel. His agent sends a temp secretary (Linda Hayden) to help him meet his deadline, but she is a woman scorned, hell bent on revenge and goes on a murderous rampage. It also stars Karl Howman, Patsy Smart and Vic Armstrong.
Hardcore (1977)
This heavily fictionalised ‘autobiography’ sees Fiona charting her life from vicar's daughter to sexual superstar. Fiona confides her life story to Anthony Steel, from flirtatious schoolgirl, through Soho showgirl to fully fledged star. It also stars Victor Spinetti, Ronald Fraser, Graham Stark and Graham Crowden,.
Let’s Get Laid (1977)
Robin Askwith plays Gordon Laid a demobbed soldier returning home from World War II in this British farce. He meets actress Maxine Lupercal (Richmond) on the ship home and due to a case of mistaken identity becomes embroiled in various murders and an espionage plot.
RRP: £19.99 Catalogue No.: VLG008
Release Date: 12th July 2006
Thursday, May 04, 2006
CHINA-CINEMA-MODERNITY
CHINA-CINEMA-MODERNITY: A CELEBRATION OF 100 YEARS OF CHINESE CINEMA
BROADWAY CINEMA (May 5-7, 2006)
A festival of Chinese film, organised by Nottingham Trent University's Institute for Cultural Analysis (ICAn) takes place this weekend at Broadway Cinema, Hockley, in Nottingham. China-Cinema-Modernity: A Celebration of 100 Years of Chinese Cinema, will explore the distinctive character of modernity in 20th century China through its cinema.
Six iconic films rarely seen in the UK will give audiences a flavour of three periods: the vibrant early modernity of the 1920s-1940s Shanghai film industry; the controversial 'alternative modernity' of the mid-century Communist period; and the flowering of a diverse and sophisticated film culture from the 1980s.
Professor John Tomlimson, the Director of ICAn, said: "This event celebrates 100 years of Chinese cinema. But more than this, it marks the increasing relevance of China, not just as an economic, but a cultural force in the modern globalised world. It is particularly appropriate that Nottingham, with its increasingly close links to China through its universities and business enterprises, should host this festival."
He added: "Our hope in staging it is that it adds to the understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture amongst British audiences."
BROADWAY CINEMA (May 5-7, 2006)
A festival of Chinese film, organised by Nottingham Trent University's Institute for Cultural Analysis (ICAn) takes place this weekend at Broadway Cinema, Hockley, in Nottingham. China-Cinema-Modernity: A Celebration of 100 Years of Chinese Cinema, will explore the distinctive character of modernity in 20th century China through its cinema.
Six iconic films rarely seen in the UK will give audiences a flavour of three periods: the vibrant early modernity of the 1920s-1940s Shanghai film industry; the controversial 'alternative modernity' of the mid-century Communist period; and the flowering of a diverse and sophisticated film culture from the 1980s.
Professor John Tomlimson, the Director of ICAn, said: "This event celebrates 100 years of Chinese cinema. But more than this, it marks the increasing relevance of China, not just as an economic, but a cultural force in the modern globalised world. It is particularly appropriate that Nottingham, with its increasingly close links to China through its universities and business enterprises, should host this festival."
He added: "Our hope in staging it is that it adds to the understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture amongst British audiences."
AE’s Aego M-System
AE’s Aego M-System
Whether it’s Guild Wars on PC, Lara on PS2, Fifa footie on the XBOX or Lemmings on your PSP, AE’s Aego M-System packs a sonic punch with every gaming system. Plug-and-play connectivity, three built-in amplifiers totalling 100Watts of power, alloy satellite speakers and a high-output sub-woofer mean the M-System really puts the boom into Doom.
For just £99, the Aego M-System connects to all the big name full-size and hand-held gaming systems and comes with all the cables you need. Simply plug into the mains, crank up the volume and experience a sound that blows cheap plastic PC-speaker systems into Elder Scrolls Oblivion!
The Aego M-System builds on the strengths of the award winning Acoustic Energy Aego 2 plug-and-play loudspeaker package. The new sleekly styled satellites have smoother treble and a funky rounded design and the modern textured finish in black or white matches a wide range of games consoles and hand-helds.
When you are not gaming, simply hook up the AE Aego M-System to your iPod, MP3 phone, PC, AE Wi-Fi Radio or DVD player for hi-fi stereo sound that fills the room. With just one cable the M-System turns any personal music device into the heart of a home entertainment system.
Designed by legendary British hi-fi loudspeaker maker Acoustic Energy, the Aego M-System is not just a boom-box either. The satellite and subwoofer drive units are AE’s hi-fi grade devices and the subwoofer offers adjustable bass control so you can tailor the sound to suit your room. The subwoofer’s front mounted volume knob gives instant volume control for every situation - from a late night Sims session to an all night party with room shaking bass.
No other add-on speaker package offers so much performance, build quality and hi-fi heritage for gaming and music. Add to this the high-style cutting edge design and superb value for money and the AE Aego M-System is set to be the biggest gaming accessory since the Elastoplast thumb plaster.
Give your games an Aego!
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
Whether it’s Guild Wars on PC, Lara on PS2, Fifa footie on the XBOX or Lemmings on your PSP, AE’s Aego M-System packs a sonic punch with every gaming system. Plug-and-play connectivity, three built-in amplifiers totalling 100Watts of power, alloy satellite speakers and a high-output sub-woofer mean the M-System really puts the boom into Doom.
For just £99, the Aego M-System connects to all the big name full-size and hand-held gaming systems and comes with all the cables you need. Simply plug into the mains, crank up the volume and experience a sound that blows cheap plastic PC-speaker systems into Elder Scrolls Oblivion!
The Aego M-System builds on the strengths of the award winning Acoustic Energy Aego 2 plug-and-play loudspeaker package. The new sleekly styled satellites have smoother treble and a funky rounded design and the modern textured finish in black or white matches a wide range of games consoles and hand-helds.
When you are not gaming, simply hook up the AE Aego M-System to your iPod, MP3 phone, PC, AE Wi-Fi Radio or DVD player for hi-fi stereo sound that fills the room. With just one cable the M-System turns any personal music device into the heart of a home entertainment system.
Designed by legendary British hi-fi loudspeaker maker Acoustic Energy, the Aego M-System is not just a boom-box either. The satellite and subwoofer drive units are AE’s hi-fi grade devices and the subwoofer offers adjustable bass control so you can tailor the sound to suit your room. The subwoofer’s front mounted volume knob gives instant volume control for every situation - from a late night Sims session to an all night party with room shaking bass.
No other add-on speaker package offers so much performance, build quality and hi-fi heritage for gaming and music. Add to this the high-style cutting edge design and superb value for money and the AE Aego M-System is set to be the biggest gaming accessory since the Elastoplast thumb plaster.
Give your games an Aego!
www.acoustic-energy.co.uk
Da Vinci Competition
The Search Begins For The World’s Best Codecracker
As Eurostar Invites You To “Join The Quest”
+ Eurostar launches global puzzle competition
+ Winner collects €200,000 + free travel on Eurostar for life + deluxe accommodation at The Ritz, Paris and Claridge’s, London
Eurostar, the high-speed train service and global partner of The Da Vinci Code movie, has begun the search for the world’s best codecracker.
In one of the biggest ever online competitions, anyone over the age of 18 living in the US, Great Britain, France, Belgium and Australia/New Zealand can register to join the Eurostar Quest at www.jointhequest.com and pit their wits against players from other countries.
The Eurostar Quest consists of 16 puzzles – all games of knowledge or skill – linked over three levels with a grand prize puzzle at the end of the Quest. The puzzles get harder as the competition progresses before the close on 30th May 2006.
At the end of the competition, the five winning finalists will be brought to London for a one-night stay at Claridge’s, London before travelling by Eurostar Leisure Select to Paris. Once there, they will stay at The Ritz, Paris and take part in the Grand Final, where the world’s best codecracker will be crowned.
The prize fund is unique. The winner will receive:
o Free travel on Eurostar for life, with a partner
o Deluxe accommodation at The Ritz, Paris and Claridge’s, London for five years
o €180,000 to spend in London and Paris
o €10,000 to spend in a “behind closed doors” shopping experience at Galeries Lafayette, Paris
o €10,000 to spend as a VIP at Harrods, London with a personal shopper
o Other bespoke experiences in London and Paris tailored to the winner’s needs
The four runners-up will receive a four-night trip to London and Paris with Eurostar Leisure Select travel between the two cities.
Prizes can also be won at different stages of the game, including Sony PSP Consoles, Sony PS2 Consoles and games, and the soundtrack of ‘The Da Vinci Code’ movie.
Guillaume Pepy, Chairman, Eurostar, commented: “The Eurostar Quest is one of the most innovative competitions ever created in the world. We believe we can find the world’s best codecracker, the online equivalent of a Professor Robert Langdon, and help them collect one of the world’s best prize experiences.”
Full details about the competition can be found at www.jointhequest.com. The Eurostar Quest closes on 30th May, 2006.
The Eurostar Quest in detail:
3rd May – Level One and Level Two of the Eurostar Quest go live. There are 10 puzzles to crack. At the end of each level, players can choose to play a Prize Puzzle and win prizes such as the soundtrack of Columbia Pictures’ The Da Vinci Code, Sony PSP games, a collector’s edition of The Da Vinci Code book and Eurostar standard class tickets.
19th May – Level Three of the Eurostar Quest goes live. There are 5 more puzzles to solve and a further Prize Puzzle, where players can win Sony PSP consoles, Sony PS2 The Da Vinci Code games and consoles and Eurostar Leisure Select tickets.
25th May – The Grand Prize Puzzle is released. Five players – one each from France, Belgium, Great Britain, US and Australia/New Zealand – who solve the Grand Prize Puzzle in the fewest attempts will go through to the Grand Final in mid-June.
30th May – The competition to win prizes closes but the website stays open so that puzzles can still be played for fun.
Mid-June – The Grand Final of the Eurostar Quest is held in Paris.
The Eurostar Quest Partners are:
Virgin Atlantic – will carry prizewinners to London from around the world
Sony Ericsson – will supply mobile phones to winners
Sony PSP – will supply consoles to winners
Claridge’s, London – will supply luxury hotel accommodation
The Ritz, Paris – will supply luxury hotel accommodation and host The Grand Final
Transworld/Random House – will supply copies of the Illustrated Collector’s Edition of The Da Vinci Code™ novel
2K/Take Two – will supply The Da Vinci Code PS2 game to winners
Decca Records – will supply the soundtrack of The Da Vinci Code
Harrods, London – will supply a personal shopper and VIP treatment for the Eurostar Quest winner
Galeries Lafayette, Paris – who will close their store for the Eurostar Quest winner to spend in privacy.
As Eurostar Invites You To “Join The Quest”
+ Eurostar launches global puzzle competition
+ Winner collects €200,000 + free travel on Eurostar for life + deluxe accommodation at The Ritz, Paris and Claridge’s, London
Eurostar, the high-speed train service and global partner of The Da Vinci Code movie, has begun the search for the world’s best codecracker.
In one of the biggest ever online competitions, anyone over the age of 18 living in the US, Great Britain, France, Belgium and Australia/New Zealand can register to join the Eurostar Quest at www.jointhequest.com and pit their wits against players from other countries.
The Eurostar Quest consists of 16 puzzles – all games of knowledge or skill – linked over three levels with a grand prize puzzle at the end of the Quest. The puzzles get harder as the competition progresses before the close on 30th May 2006.
At the end of the competition, the five winning finalists will be brought to London for a one-night stay at Claridge’s, London before travelling by Eurostar Leisure Select to Paris. Once there, they will stay at The Ritz, Paris and take part in the Grand Final, where the world’s best codecracker will be crowned.
The prize fund is unique. The winner will receive:
o Free travel on Eurostar for life, with a partner
o Deluxe accommodation at The Ritz, Paris and Claridge’s, London for five years
o €180,000 to spend in London and Paris
o €10,000 to spend in a “behind closed doors” shopping experience at Galeries Lafayette, Paris
o €10,000 to spend as a VIP at Harrods, London with a personal shopper
o Other bespoke experiences in London and Paris tailored to the winner’s needs
The four runners-up will receive a four-night trip to London and Paris with Eurostar Leisure Select travel between the two cities.
Prizes can also be won at different stages of the game, including Sony PSP Consoles, Sony PS2 Consoles and games, and the soundtrack of ‘The Da Vinci Code’ movie.
Guillaume Pepy, Chairman, Eurostar, commented: “The Eurostar Quest is one of the most innovative competitions ever created in the world. We believe we can find the world’s best codecracker, the online equivalent of a Professor Robert Langdon, and help them collect one of the world’s best prize experiences.”
Full details about the competition can be found at www.jointhequest.com. The Eurostar Quest closes on 30th May, 2006.
The Eurostar Quest in detail:
3rd May – Level One and Level Two of the Eurostar Quest go live. There are 10 puzzles to crack. At the end of each level, players can choose to play a Prize Puzzle and win prizes such as the soundtrack of Columbia Pictures’ The Da Vinci Code, Sony PSP games, a collector’s edition of The Da Vinci Code book and Eurostar standard class tickets.
19th May – Level Three of the Eurostar Quest goes live. There are 5 more puzzles to solve and a further Prize Puzzle, where players can win Sony PSP consoles, Sony PS2 The Da Vinci Code games and consoles and Eurostar Leisure Select tickets.
25th May – The Grand Prize Puzzle is released. Five players – one each from France, Belgium, Great Britain, US and Australia/New Zealand – who solve the Grand Prize Puzzle in the fewest attempts will go through to the Grand Final in mid-June.
30th May – The competition to win prizes closes but the website stays open so that puzzles can still be played for fun.
Mid-June – The Grand Final of the Eurostar Quest is held in Paris.
The Eurostar Quest Partners are:
Virgin Atlantic – will carry prizewinners to London from around the world
Sony Ericsson – will supply mobile phones to winners
Sony PSP – will supply consoles to winners
Claridge’s, London – will supply luxury hotel accommodation
The Ritz, Paris – will supply luxury hotel accommodation and host The Grand Final
Transworld/Random House – will supply copies of the Illustrated Collector’s Edition of The Da Vinci Code™ novel
2K/Take Two – will supply The Da Vinci Code PS2 game to winners
Decca Records – will supply the soundtrack of The Da Vinci Code
Harrods, London – will supply a personal shopper and VIP treatment for the Eurostar Quest winner
Galeries Lafayette, Paris – who will close their store for the Eurostar Quest winner to spend in privacy.
Wednesday, May 03, 2006
Global Sales
Global Sales company 111 Pictures to launch at Cannes
111 pictures will launch its fantastic library collection of classic independent films as well as its slate on new Hollywood and British Movies at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival.
111 Pictures Ltd. Is a partnership between Alki David and Elliott Kastner. They have head hunted Tony Lytle from In Motion, formerly of New Line and J&M for
heading up sales. VP of sales is Eroulla Constantine former head of sales for Sullivan Entertainment.
The company will be unveiling a new software and platform for testing of the
FULL ON DVD DOWNLOAD NETWORK to select distributors. The FULL ON DVD DOWNLOAD NETWORK is the future of DVD / Television distribution. It is a business to business system that is a complex rights management system for DVD downloads and Broadband broadcasting.
The company has opened up impressive offices in Wardour Street, in the heart of Soho, London. They will also be at Cannes to launch an independent film called ‘OPA’, a romantic comedy. The film tells the story of an American archaeologist (Matthew Modine) who arrives on the Greek Island of Patmos in search of a lost Biblical artefact that his late father had searched for in vain. He falls in love with a woman (Agni Scott) who owns the village taverna, under which the artefact may be buried.
The film won Best Film at Toronto Film Festival.
OPA is a UK-USA production directed by Udayan Prassad and starring Matthew Modine (Bye Bye Love, Any Given Sunday), Richard Griffiths (Harry Potter, Withnail and I), Alki David (The Freediver) and newcomer Agni Scott.
111 pictures will launch its fantastic library collection of classic independent films as well as its slate on new Hollywood and British Movies at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival.
111 Pictures Ltd. Is a partnership between Alki David and Elliott Kastner. They have head hunted Tony Lytle from In Motion, formerly of New Line and J&M for
heading up sales. VP of sales is Eroulla Constantine former head of sales for Sullivan Entertainment.
The company will be unveiling a new software and platform for testing of the
FULL ON DVD DOWNLOAD NETWORK to select distributors. The FULL ON DVD DOWNLOAD NETWORK is the future of DVD / Television distribution. It is a business to business system that is a complex rights management system for DVD downloads and Broadband broadcasting.
The company has opened up impressive offices in Wardour Street, in the heart of Soho, London. They will also be at Cannes to launch an independent film called ‘OPA’, a romantic comedy. The film tells the story of an American archaeologist (Matthew Modine) who arrives on the Greek Island of Patmos in search of a lost Biblical artefact that his late father had searched for in vain. He falls in love with a woman (Agni Scott) who owns the village taverna, under which the artefact may be buried.
The film won Best Film at Toronto Film Festival.
OPA is a UK-USA production directed by Udayan Prassad and starring Matthew Modine (Bye Bye Love, Any Given Sunday), Richard Griffiths (Harry Potter, Withnail and I), Alki David (The Freediver) and newcomer Agni Scott.
BBC Training & Development launches
new online HD resource centre
BBC Training & Development today launched a new HD online resource centre; http://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/production/hd.shtml which also includes WAP access to top tips for HD.
The resource is aimed at the Broadcast production community and covers all aspects of producing television in High Definition.
On the site you can find:
o Introduction to HD – a 10 minute online training module
o Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) related to HD
o A downloadable HD guide aimed at producers
o Top tips for HD covering areas such as pre-production, set design, makeup, production management, shooting, lighting, sound, post-production etc.
A new unique feature is the possibility to have top tips or FAQs sent directly to any UK mobile phone anywhere in the world. This option is especially useful for crews working in remote places who need instant information and don’t have access to the internet. Simply text “HD” to 81010 and receive the link to the top tips on your mobile.
BBC has announced its commitment to producing virtually all content in HD by 2010 and the first BBC HD technical trial starts in June. 2006 is definitely the year when HD will become a reality, and there is great need for information and development to quickly get everyone up to speed with HD across the entire Broadcast Industry.
“The recently published White paper emphasizes the BBC’s responsibility to drive development of skills in the wider broadcast industry especially in relation to technology development. We have gathered a lot of expertise in HD production at the BBC and it’s great that we now can share best practice among, not only our own staff, but also with the UK broadcast sector”, said Caroline Prendergast, BBC Head of Training & Development Delivery.
The HD site will continue to grow when new information and other resources are added and hopefully it can be used as a first port of call for anyone with HD queries.
new online HD resource centre
BBC Training & Development today launched a new HD online resource centre; http://www.bbc.co.uk/commissioning/production/hd.shtml which also includes WAP access to top tips for HD.
The resource is aimed at the Broadcast production community and covers all aspects of producing television in High Definition.
On the site you can find:
o Introduction to HD – a 10 minute online training module
o Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) related to HD
o A downloadable HD guide aimed at producers
o Top tips for HD covering areas such as pre-production, set design, makeup, production management, shooting, lighting, sound, post-production etc.
A new unique feature is the possibility to have top tips or FAQs sent directly to any UK mobile phone anywhere in the world. This option is especially useful for crews working in remote places who need instant information and don’t have access to the internet. Simply text “HD” to 81010 and receive the link to the top tips on your mobile.
BBC has announced its commitment to producing virtually all content in HD by 2010 and the first BBC HD technical trial starts in June. 2006 is definitely the year when HD will become a reality, and there is great need for information and development to quickly get everyone up to speed with HD across the entire Broadcast Industry.
“The recently published White paper emphasizes the BBC’s responsibility to drive development of skills in the wider broadcast industry especially in relation to technology development. We have gathered a lot of expertise in HD production at the BBC and it’s great that we now can share best practice among, not only our own staff, but also with the UK broadcast sector”, said Caroline Prendergast, BBC Head of Training & Development Delivery.
The HD site will continue to grow when new information and other resources are added and hopefully it can be used as a first port of call for anyone with HD queries.
BBC Film Network begins showcasing short films as high-resolution downloads
BBC Film Network (bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork) - the interactive showcase for new British filmmakers – continues its mission to promote new filmmakers with the addition of high-resolution downloads to the site. BBC Film Network will make selected short films available as downloads for a trial period of 12 months.
The download application, which will be available to the first 10,000 visitors to sign up, will allow users to watch a selection of the very best shorts in full screen, at a quality similar to a DVD. Users may also subscribe, for free, to automatically receive three great new shorts every fortnight and be alerted when new films are ready to watch.
The application will use similar technology to that used during the iMP trail, which concluded earlier this year. The Film Network trial uses a legal peer-to-peer network to deliver films as high quality video files. Users are granted a licence through the digital rights management software to view the film for 28-days and, when this expires, the files will automatically remove themselves from their hard drive.
There will be a choice of six shorts available at any one time. By offering the best films with a picture quality comparable to DVDs, the BBC aims to test the audience’s appetite for British made short films and also test broadband as a viable platform for showcasing new film content from the most promising new talent.
The service will launch with ‘How To Tell If A Relationship Is Over’, a 90-second race through the tell-tale signs of a relationship meltdown, featuring The Mighty Boosh’s Julian Barratt; ‘Fishy’ the appropriately named aquatic romance starring Shirley Henderson, a joint runner up in the BBC's Talent awards. Also included is the award-winning Chris Shepherd animation, ‘Dad’s Dead’.
Gerard O’Malley, Interactive Executive for film said,
“In the free-for-all that is the internet, how the audience experiences film content on the web is key, as are their expectations in terms of the quality of video content. We are here to back British filmmaking talent and bring there work to an as wider audience as possible. That’s why BBC Film Network is running this trial, to test the reaction and appetite of our audience to high quality short films on demand.”
bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork
BBC Film Network (bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork) - the interactive showcase for new British filmmakers – continues its mission to promote new filmmakers with the addition of high-resolution downloads to the site. BBC Film Network will make selected short films available as downloads for a trial period of 12 months.
The download application, which will be available to the first 10,000 visitors to sign up, will allow users to watch a selection of the very best shorts in full screen, at a quality similar to a DVD. Users may also subscribe, for free, to automatically receive three great new shorts every fortnight and be alerted when new films are ready to watch.
The application will use similar technology to that used during the iMP trail, which concluded earlier this year. The Film Network trial uses a legal peer-to-peer network to deliver films as high quality video files. Users are granted a licence through the digital rights management software to view the film for 28-days and, when this expires, the files will automatically remove themselves from their hard drive.
There will be a choice of six shorts available at any one time. By offering the best films with a picture quality comparable to DVDs, the BBC aims to test the audience’s appetite for British made short films and also test broadband as a viable platform for showcasing new film content from the most promising new talent.
The service will launch with ‘How To Tell If A Relationship Is Over’, a 90-second race through the tell-tale signs of a relationship meltdown, featuring The Mighty Boosh’s Julian Barratt; ‘Fishy’ the appropriately named aquatic romance starring Shirley Henderson, a joint runner up in the BBC's Talent awards. Also included is the award-winning Chris Shepherd animation, ‘Dad’s Dead’.
Gerard O’Malley, Interactive Executive for film said,
“In the free-for-all that is the internet, how the audience experiences film content on the web is key, as are their expectations in terms of the quality of video content. We are here to back British filmmaking talent and bring there work to an as wider audience as possible. That’s why BBC Film Network is running this trial, to test the reaction and appetite of our audience to high quality short films on demand.”
bbc.co.uk/filmnetwork
Local filmmakers to see their big ideas on the small screen
Three local filmmakers have been selected to make films about the North East, in a new commission launched by Northern Film & Media in partnership with digital TV station Community Channel.
In January a call was made to local filmmakers to submit their proposals to receive a substantial grant from Northern Film & Media. Three documentaries have been chosen for production, all showing that it's not so grim up North and that there are people across the region who are setting out to make a difference, changing their lives and their communities.
Community Channel proposes to air the three North East documentaries in their Autumn 2006 schedule alongside their range of other programmes dedicated to highlighting issues from both local and international communities as well as the voluntary and charitable sectors.
The three films that have been chosen are: Sing Your Hearts Out: Produced by Emily Barber. A documentary about Heaton Voices, a community choir with a difference as they prepare to host this years National Street Choir Festival.
The Chevy Chase: Produced by Louise Rea. The film will take a close look at community life in rural Northumberland. Specifically the small town of Wooler and it's annual, gruelling, 20 mile run the 'Chevy Chase'.
The Grass Never Goes: Produced by Reuben Jacob Abraham. The Lawnmowers is a group of people with learning difficulties based in Gateshead who use comedy theatre to educate and entertain the public about disability.
Tom Harvey, Chief Executive of Northern Film & Media, says: “It is important to us that this series of programmes will be broadcast to a national audience and that viewers all over the UK are entertained, informed and inspired by real stories from the North East.”
Nick Ware, Community Channel Controller, says: “We're delighted to team up with Northern Film & Media and look forward to seeing the films from the people of the North-East. We're keen to show the positive side of communities around the UK and hope this is the first of many partnerships with regional film agencies from across the UK.“
Three local filmmakers have been selected to make films about the North East, in a new commission launched by Northern Film & Media in partnership with digital TV station Community Channel.
In January a call was made to local filmmakers to submit their proposals to receive a substantial grant from Northern Film & Media. Three documentaries have been chosen for production, all showing that it's not so grim up North and that there are people across the region who are setting out to make a difference, changing their lives and their communities.
Community Channel proposes to air the three North East documentaries in their Autumn 2006 schedule alongside their range of other programmes dedicated to highlighting issues from both local and international communities as well as the voluntary and charitable sectors.
The three films that have been chosen are: Sing Your Hearts Out: Produced by Emily Barber. A documentary about Heaton Voices, a community choir with a difference as they prepare to host this years National Street Choir Festival.
The Chevy Chase: Produced by Louise Rea. The film will take a close look at community life in rural Northumberland. Specifically the small town of Wooler and it's annual, gruelling, 20 mile run the 'Chevy Chase'.
The Grass Never Goes: Produced by Reuben Jacob Abraham. The Lawnmowers is a group of people with learning difficulties based in Gateshead who use comedy theatre to educate and entertain the public about disability.
Tom Harvey, Chief Executive of Northern Film & Media, says: “It is important to us that this series of programmes will be broadcast to a national audience and that viewers all over the UK are entertained, informed and inspired by real stories from the North East.”
Nick Ware, Community Channel Controller, says: “We're delighted to team up with Northern Film & Media and look forward to seeing the films from the people of the North-East. We're keen to show the positive side of communities around the UK and hope this is the first of many partnerships with regional film agencies from across the UK.“
FORMER BOND AND EX-PYTHON HELP TCM TO FIND THE BEST BRITISH SHORT FILM OF 2006
London, 2nd May, 2006: Pierce Brosnan and Terry Gilliam are just two of the high profile judges Who are going to be deciding TCM Classic Shorts competition’s winner of 2006. The seventh annual short film competition run by TCM (Turner Classic Movies) launches today (2nd May) and the award ceremony, to honour the finalists, is held during the 50th The Times bfi London Film Festival in November. The competition has grown in stature and exposure since it’s inception in 2000 and this is reflected by the distinguished names from the UK and US film industry that have agreed to participate as judges.
TCM Classic Shorts is one of the most prestigious and valuable short film competitions in Europe awarding £10,000 of prize money. In addition it gives the entrants exposure to a celebrated panel of judges who bring their expertise from all angles of the film industry. This year’s panel is:
Pierce Brosnan Die Another Day, The Thomas Crown Affair- Actor
Terry Gillliam Brazil, Time Bandits- Actor, writer, director, animator and composer
Imelda Staunton Vera Drake, Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix- Actress
Matthew Modine Full Metal Jacket, Short Cuts- Actor, director, screenwriter and author
Sally Potter Orlando, Yes- Director, screenwriter, composer, producer and editor
Stephen Poliakoff Close My Eyes, The Lost Prince- Screenwriter and director
Richard E Grant Withnail and I, Gosford Park- Actor, screenwriter and director
Stephen Woolley The Crying Game, Stoned - Producer and director
Wendy Ide The Times Film critic and film festival programmer
Jason Solomons BBC film critic
Paul Trijbits Head of the Film Council’s New Cinema Fund
Matt Mueller Editor Editor-At-Large Total Film
Dan Jolin Empire magazine Reviews Editor
Tina McCann General Manager of Turner Entertainment Networks Europe
The competition prides itself on having discovered some of the best new film making talent in the UK in recent years; last year’s winner Jane Lloyd has been snapped up by David Gray who is using an edited down version as the video for his new single, Alibi. Many of the short-listed films from previous years have also gone on to receive further acclaim; 2004 winner Nits directed by Harry Wootliff received a BAFTA nomination, whilst 2002 entry Brown Paper Bag directed by Michael Baig Clifford and 2001 winner About A Girl directed by Brian Percival, both went on to win BAFTAs for Best Short Film.
Once again TCM is sponsoring the Short Cuts and Animation strand of the Times bfi London Film Festival. The strand premieres the very best international short and animated films and as such is an important launch pad for new film-makers, student films and independent productions, as well as launching the careers of many high profile actors.
TCM Classic Shorts is open to all UK made short films. The opening date is 2nd May 2006 and all films must be received by 1st September 2006 at the very latest. The short-listed nominations are aired during a special weekend of programming on TCM and also screened at The Times bfi London Film Festival during the awards ceremony.
Further information and entry forms are available at: www.tcmonline.co.uk/classicshorts
For further information about The Times bfi London Film Festival, please log on to: www.lff.org.uk
London, 2nd May, 2006: Pierce Brosnan and Terry Gilliam are just two of the high profile judges Who are going to be deciding TCM Classic Shorts competition’s winner of 2006. The seventh annual short film competition run by TCM (Turner Classic Movies) launches today (2nd May) and the award ceremony, to honour the finalists, is held during the 50th The Times bfi London Film Festival in November. The competition has grown in stature and exposure since it’s inception in 2000 and this is reflected by the distinguished names from the UK and US film industry that have agreed to participate as judges.
TCM Classic Shorts is one of the most prestigious and valuable short film competitions in Europe awarding £10,000 of prize money. In addition it gives the entrants exposure to a celebrated panel of judges who bring their expertise from all angles of the film industry. This year’s panel is:
Pierce Brosnan Die Another Day, The Thomas Crown Affair- Actor
Terry Gillliam Brazil, Time Bandits- Actor, writer, director, animator and composer
Imelda Staunton Vera Drake, Harry Potter & the Order of the Phoenix- Actress
Matthew Modine Full Metal Jacket, Short Cuts- Actor, director, screenwriter and author
Sally Potter Orlando, Yes- Director, screenwriter, composer, producer and editor
Stephen Poliakoff Close My Eyes, The Lost Prince- Screenwriter and director
Richard E Grant Withnail and I, Gosford Park- Actor, screenwriter and director
Stephen Woolley The Crying Game, Stoned - Producer and director
Wendy Ide The Times Film critic and film festival programmer
Jason Solomons BBC film critic
Paul Trijbits Head of the Film Council’s New Cinema Fund
Matt Mueller Editor Editor-At-Large Total Film
Dan Jolin Empire magazine Reviews Editor
Tina McCann General Manager of Turner Entertainment Networks Europe
The competition prides itself on having discovered some of the best new film making talent in the UK in recent years; last year’s winner Jane Lloyd has been snapped up by David Gray who is using an edited down version as the video for his new single, Alibi. Many of the short-listed films from previous years have also gone on to receive further acclaim; 2004 winner Nits directed by Harry Wootliff received a BAFTA nomination, whilst 2002 entry Brown Paper Bag directed by Michael Baig Clifford and 2001 winner About A Girl directed by Brian Percival, both went on to win BAFTAs for Best Short Film.
Once again TCM is sponsoring the Short Cuts and Animation strand of the Times bfi London Film Festival. The strand premieres the very best international short and animated films and as such is an important launch pad for new film-makers, student films and independent productions, as well as launching the careers of many high profile actors.
TCM Classic Shorts is open to all UK made short films. The opening date is 2nd May 2006 and all films must be received by 1st September 2006 at the very latest. The short-listed nominations are aired during a special weekend of programming on TCM and also screened at The Times bfi London Film Festival during the awards ceremony.
Further information and entry forms are available at: www.tcmonline.co.uk/classicshorts
For further information about The Times bfi London Film Festival, please log on to: www.lff.org.uk
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Capital FX Awards
Capital FX awarded the five winners of its CFX Short Film Awards their 35mm prints.
The winning films were:
- Attack directed by Timothy Smith
- Pitch Perfect directed by J Blakeson
- Rabbit directed by Run Wrake
- Screen Kiss directed by Steven Sander
- The Little Thief directed by Adam Sharp.
There is no doubt that currently demand is not great enough for cinemas to gravitate towards showing short films without there being some outside encouragement. The CFX Short Film Award hopes to be part of this drive and looks forward to developing this with UK filmmakers.
The Winning Films and Filmmakers
Attack
Timothy Smith - Director
Synopsis:
Steve, the leader of a local gang apprehends a neo-Nazi skinhead because he has attacked two of his black teenage friends in a nearby alley. The police arrive and take statements from Steve and the two teenage boys. Malcolm, the skinhead, lies unconscious. As we're taken back through the story we realise that perhaps the boys aren't telling the whole truth and things may not be as black and white as they first appear.
Timothy's biography:
Timothy was born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1972. Between 1994 and 1997 he studied film production and animation in Melbourne. Then from 1997 to 1998 he worked in the film industry in Sydney before relocating to London in 2002. Here he completed a Masters degree in Media at Westminster University. Timothy currently works as a freelance writer, director and camera operator.
Pitch Perfect
J Blakeson - Director
Synopsis:
Bob and Ellis are screenwriters with integrity, talent and the willingness to do absolutely anything to sell their movie. Over four frustrating meetings with film executives, they desperately rethink their pitch, ready to go to any lengths to make that elusive sale. But how far is too far?
J's biography:
Based on writer/director J Blakeson's real life experiences pitching feature ideas to executives, 'Pitch Perfect' was shot on DVcam and HD. The film was self funded by J and producer Sacha Guttenstein through production and then won Film Council completion funding. It premiered at the 2005 Edinburgh International Film Festival and has gone on to play at Brief Encounters Short Film Festival in Athens, and Ohio Film Festival. It was also nominated for Best Short Film at the 2005 British Independent Film Awards.
Rabbit
Run Wrake - Director
Synopsis:
A selection of 1950s educational stickers, found in a provincial junkshop twenty years ago provide the ingredients for this adult fairytale. Once they were new, delivering a simple message to the young. Like us, however, they have grown older and now present a more complex meaning. The dark shade and casual violence of the story clash with the childhood connotations of the artwork to create an atmosphere of lost innocence, and tell a tale of greed and the random justice of nature.
Run's biography:
Since graduating from RCA in 1990 Run has worked as a freelance animation director and illustrator. He has worked on a wide variety of projects include short film, promos, television graphics, commercials, live visuals and illustration. Career highlights include working on a series of freeform promos, presenting storyboards to Roy Lichtenstein in his New York studio for U2's Popmart tour visuals and 'Rabbit'.
Screen Kiss
Steven Sander - Director
Synopsis:
In a mock documentary style, Screen Kiss explores the duplicity of two actors and their director. The actors kiss on screen but away from the camera they secretly hate each other.
Steven's biography:
Steve graduated with a History degree from Cambridge University in 1999. He started in the film industry as a runner at Union Commercials, Union Pictures and Natural Nylon in London. Since then he's gained a reputation as a TV commercials director with Quiet Storm Films, working for clients such as BT, Nokia, News International and BMW Mini Cooper. He is currently working on a short film and documentary project.
The Little Thief
Adam Sharp - Director
Synopsis:
After stealing a toy plane from a shop the little thief runs off to play with his prize in the woods, but the sun is setting and darkness soon comes. Unwittingly he is led to the grounds of a deserted mansion, where toys hang from the trees like overripe fruit.
Adams's biography:
A flair for the macabre and a strong artistic talent, singled Adam out as unusual from an early age. Adam Graduated in 1997 with a degree in Animation, and quickly found work as a freelance animator and illustrator. Initially working with more traditional forms of hand drawn animation Adam later began to use computers as his main tool. He has worked on numerous productions including pilots, children's series, idents for Channel 4, and TV ads, as well as the recent Gorillaz 'Feel Good Inc.' music video. Adam is now co-director of Itchy Pictures, a rapidly growing animation and VFX studio.
Capital FX awarded the five winners of its CFX Short Film Awards their 35mm prints.
The winning films were:
- Attack directed by Timothy Smith
- Pitch Perfect directed by J Blakeson
- Rabbit directed by Run Wrake
- Screen Kiss directed by Steven Sander
- The Little Thief directed by Adam Sharp.
There is no doubt that currently demand is not great enough for cinemas to gravitate towards showing short films without there being some outside encouragement. The CFX Short Film Award hopes to be part of this drive and looks forward to developing this with UK filmmakers.
The Winning Films and Filmmakers
Attack
Timothy Smith - Director
Synopsis:
Steve, the leader of a local gang apprehends a neo-Nazi skinhead because he has attacked two of his black teenage friends in a nearby alley. The police arrive and take statements from Steve and the two teenage boys. Malcolm, the skinhead, lies unconscious. As we're taken back through the story we realise that perhaps the boys aren't telling the whole truth and things may not be as black and white as they first appear.
Timothy's biography:
Timothy was born in Melbourne, Australia, in 1972. Between 1994 and 1997 he studied film production and animation in Melbourne. Then from 1997 to 1998 he worked in the film industry in Sydney before relocating to London in 2002. Here he completed a Masters degree in Media at Westminster University. Timothy currently works as a freelance writer, director and camera operator.
Pitch Perfect
J Blakeson - Director
Synopsis:
Bob and Ellis are screenwriters with integrity, talent and the willingness to do absolutely anything to sell their movie. Over four frustrating meetings with film executives, they desperately rethink their pitch, ready to go to any lengths to make that elusive sale. But how far is too far?
J's biography:
Based on writer/director J Blakeson's real life experiences pitching feature ideas to executives, 'Pitch Perfect' was shot on DVcam and HD. The film was self funded by J and producer Sacha Guttenstein through production and then won Film Council completion funding. It premiered at the 2005 Edinburgh International Film Festival and has gone on to play at Brief Encounters Short Film Festival in Athens, and Ohio Film Festival. It was also nominated for Best Short Film at the 2005 British Independent Film Awards.
Rabbit
Run Wrake - Director
Synopsis:
A selection of 1950s educational stickers, found in a provincial junkshop twenty years ago provide the ingredients for this adult fairytale. Once they were new, delivering a simple message to the young. Like us, however, they have grown older and now present a more complex meaning. The dark shade and casual violence of the story clash with the childhood connotations of the artwork to create an atmosphere of lost innocence, and tell a tale of greed and the random justice of nature.
Run's biography:
Since graduating from RCA in 1990 Run has worked as a freelance animation director and illustrator. He has worked on a wide variety of projects include short film, promos, television graphics, commercials, live visuals and illustration. Career highlights include working on a series of freeform promos, presenting storyboards to Roy Lichtenstein in his New York studio for U2's Popmart tour visuals and 'Rabbit'.
Screen Kiss
Steven Sander - Director
Synopsis:
In a mock documentary style, Screen Kiss explores the duplicity of two actors and their director. The actors kiss on screen but away from the camera they secretly hate each other.
Steven's biography:
Steve graduated with a History degree from Cambridge University in 1999. He started in the film industry as a runner at Union Commercials, Union Pictures and Natural Nylon in London. Since then he's gained a reputation as a TV commercials director with Quiet Storm Films, working for clients such as BT, Nokia, News International and BMW Mini Cooper. He is currently working on a short film and documentary project.
The Little Thief
Adam Sharp - Director
Synopsis:
After stealing a toy plane from a shop the little thief runs off to play with his prize in the woods, but the sun is setting and darkness soon comes. Unwittingly he is led to the grounds of a deserted mansion, where toys hang from the trees like overripe fruit.
Adams's biography:
A flair for the macabre and a strong artistic talent, singled Adam out as unusual from an early age. Adam Graduated in 1997 with a degree in Animation, and quickly found work as a freelance animator and illustrator. Initially working with more traditional forms of hand drawn animation Adam later began to use computers as his main tool. He has worked on numerous productions including pilots, children's series, idents for Channel 4, and TV ads, as well as the recent Gorillaz 'Feel Good Inc.' music video. Adam is now co-director of Itchy Pictures, a rapidly growing animation and VFX studio.
Thursday, April 27, 2006
SING-A-LONG WIZARD OF OZ
In a special treat and to coincide with the launch of TCM 2 channel, audiences can
sing along to the catchy numbers of The Wizard of Oz (1939) from 2nd- 6th May.
The lyrics will be visible to all on the screen.
TCM 2 LAUNCH GUARANTEES GREAT MOVIES
On 2nd May, the red carpet rolls out for the premiere of TCM 2, a new channel to complement the original film channel TCM that promises to become a byword for the best examples of the original cinematic art. In a move giving viewers access to some of the most cherished films ever made, the channel will screen core titles from TCM’s vast archive. These are the movies with a genuine claim to the title “timeless”, from three-handkerchief weepies like Casablanca (1942), through epic dramas such as Gone with the Wind (1939) to the kind of family movies like The Philadelphia Story (1940). Great productions such as The Wizard of Oz (1939) and musicals like West Side Story, as well as top-rated thrillers of the calibre of The Maltese Falcon, are also on offer.
And sticking with one of the most popular features on TCM, viewers can enjoy originally-produced content including OFF SET interviews where present-day stars and acclaimed directors describe why Hollywood classics mean so much to them. TCM will continue broadcasting a wider range of material, including new documentaries, more contemporary classics and international films.
The launch of the complementary channel means more creative programming across two channels rather than one, TCM viewers will have an embarrassment of riches to tuck into. In a feast of viewing entertainment, TCM 2 will, for its first four months, show four movies at the same time every night for a week from 7pm, with the selection changing every Sunday evening to give viewers more opportunities to catch the all-time classics.
TCM 2 broadcasts from 7pm to 3am daily on channel 320 on SKY and is complementary to its sister channel TCM which draws on a library of 20th century movies from Hollywood’s golden age to contemporary classics. TCM 2 provides further choice by celebrating the original classics from Hollywood’s history and giving film heritage enthusiasts the chance to revel in universally loved films.
For information on TCM see www.tcmonline.co.uk
In a special treat and to coincide with the launch of TCM 2 channel, audiences can
sing along to the catchy numbers of The Wizard of Oz (1939) from 2nd- 6th May.
The lyrics will be visible to all on the screen.
TCM 2 LAUNCH GUARANTEES GREAT MOVIES
On 2nd May, the red carpet rolls out for the premiere of TCM 2, a new channel to complement the original film channel TCM that promises to become a byword for the best examples of the original cinematic art. In a move giving viewers access to some of the most cherished films ever made, the channel will screen core titles from TCM’s vast archive. These are the movies with a genuine claim to the title “timeless”, from three-handkerchief weepies like Casablanca (1942), through epic dramas such as Gone with the Wind (1939) to the kind of family movies like The Philadelphia Story (1940). Great productions such as The Wizard of Oz (1939) and musicals like West Side Story, as well as top-rated thrillers of the calibre of The Maltese Falcon, are also on offer.
And sticking with one of the most popular features on TCM, viewers can enjoy originally-produced content including OFF SET interviews where present-day stars and acclaimed directors describe why Hollywood classics mean so much to them. TCM will continue broadcasting a wider range of material, including new documentaries, more contemporary classics and international films.
The launch of the complementary channel means more creative programming across two channels rather than one, TCM viewers will have an embarrassment of riches to tuck into. In a feast of viewing entertainment, TCM 2 will, for its first four months, show four movies at the same time every night for a week from 7pm, with the selection changing every Sunday evening to give viewers more opportunities to catch the all-time classics.
TCM 2 broadcasts from 7pm to 3am daily on channel 320 on SKY and is complementary to its sister channel TCM which draws on a library of 20th century movies from Hollywood’s golden age to contemporary classics. TCM 2 provides further choice by celebrating the original classics from Hollywood’s history and giving film heritage enthusiasts the chance to revel in universally loved films.
For information on TCM see www.tcmonline.co.uk
Local film stars support aspiring young filmmakers
in the North East
A group of budding young filmmakers from the North East had the experience of a lifetime yesterday when they attended a workshop with professionals from film and advertising industries to learn some ‘tricks of the trade’.
The workshops were conducted as part of the Futures in Motion film competition run by First Light, the UK Film Council’s youth initiative, in conjunction with The National Lottery, and which aims to showcase the creativity of young people across the region.
Part of Newcastle’s Centre for Life was transformed into a film set for the day with cameras and props, and local film star Peter Flannery, scriptwriter for films including Funny Bones and The One and Only, as well as BAFTA winning Newcastle television program Our Friends in the North dropped by to lend his support and share his experiences. Multiple Oscar® winning director Ridley Scott, who is responsible classic films such Alien and Gladiator, and who grew up in South Shields, has also lent his support to what he calls a “great initiative”.
***************
i-blink
Coventry’s film festival is about to go International and will be scouring Europe for fresh new writing talent
The former blink film festival is going to be i-blink and to celebrate; the organisers have created a wonderful opportunity for budding film-makers to get their films made.
i-blink 2007 is to give young film makers from all over Europe the chance to have their scripts made into 10-minute films and the best 10 scripts submitted will be made into films and screened at the festival next January.
The innovative international scriptwriting competition is a key part of the film festival and is open budding directors, screenwriters and producers living or working in Europe.
Pete Woodbridge, one of the organisers of the i-blink film festival and a lecturer at Coventry University, said:
“We want the i-blink festival to become one of the fixtures and fittings of the international film festival scene and by launching the scriptwriting competition with the prize of having the script made into a film is a way of getting the film-makers to take notice.
“Coventry is a city a reputation for excellence in so many areas and an international film festival is the next logical step.
“We are looking for scripts about any subject of about 10 minutes in duration. There is no age limit and it’s open to everyone.”
Scripts are now being accepted and short-listed screenwriters will be identified later in the year. Film production will take place over the summer to produce the final 10 films by the end of November 2006.
The films will have their debut screening at the i-blink film festival which will form part of the internationally renowned MeCCSA and AMPE* conference which Coventry is hosting in 2007.
Pete Woodbridge added:
“Who knows, we could discover some rare talent who could go on to become the next Spielberg, Hitchcock or Lean. It is a wonderful opportunity for someone to see their work come to life and I hope it will fire peoples’ imagination.”
****************
IAFT ONE-YEAR IMMERSION PROGRAM GAINING MOMENTUM
2nd Session Continues To Attract Aspiring Filmmakers From Philippines and Around The Globe
CEBU, PHILIPPINES (April 27, 2006) – Upon successful completion of its inaugural session, the International Academy of Film and Television’s (IAFT) One-Year Immersion program rolls into its next batch of classes poised for another great session.
In addition to an influx of promising new students from as far the United Kingdom, the IAFT proudly announces the addition of three esteemed new mentors:
* Mark Gary, has worked as both director and Director of Photography for television commercials, with corporate clients such as Sprite, Wrigley, Sara Lee and Unilever;
* Roberto Minervini, Italian-born filmmaker and photographer who gained international recognition in 2001 for the experimental short film To Be A Woman; and
* Fred Straughen, who has worked in television production for over 20 years with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation as well as throughout Asia and Indonesia.
These new members will join highly regarded resident mentors Timothy Doolen and Fritz Kohle. Doolen has provided valuable instruction to students through IAFT’s short-term workshops and its first session.
Even with the stellar line-up of film industry veterans, unique beachside campus and state-of-the-art facilities, the cost of the One-Year Immersion Program will remain comparatively low at US$8,000 for international students and US$5,000 for local Filipino students.
The admissions department of IAFT notes that, given these favorable factors, there is an increasing amount of enquiries about the program from countries as far away as Australia and the United States.
To encourage budding filmmakers, IAFT has previously established a Scholarship Fund for students who wish to attend its courses. The Fund comprises three assistance programs: one need-based award, CineLikha Young Filmmaker Scholarship, and two merit-based awards, IAFT Lumière Fellowship and Emergent Artists Award.
Awards will be granted based on student’s annual income (for the need-based award) or prior creative history and demonstrated potential (for merit-based awards). For the second session, the Emergent Artists Award was granted to Filipino Joe Siclot, a Fine Arts graduate who demonstrated exceptional talent and would like to further his creative pursuits in the realm of filmmaking.
“We look forward to offering aspiring filmmakers from all corners of the world the opportunity to practice their craft at a world-class media facility,” says Kacy Andrews, CEO of Bigfoot Entertainment, the fully-integrated parent company of IAFT. “For many students, it’s their first exposure to the rigors and rewards of a career in the entertainment industry.”
The One-Year Immersion program, which consists of five 9-week courses, includes courses on cinematography, editing, directing, screenwriting, producing, filmmaking, sound design and other electives. Students will also get to work closely with the faculty members to for their final project which can be part of their professional reel.
IAFT accepts a new student intake every two months so subsequent terms will begin on June 5, August 14 and October 23. Housing is available for students at the 68-room Casablanca Gardens, which is a two-minute walk on campus.
For more information, please call +63-32-342-8889 or 1-866-300-7207 (toll-free from U.S.). Alternatively, you can visit www.filmschool.ph
****************
SHOOTLIVE TO CAPTURE CRIMINALS IN 11 SECONDS
Worldwide launch of revolutionary new technology at International Police Expo Conference 2006
ShootLive, www.shootlive.com a patent pending photography delivery process developed by the world renowned photography agency EMPICS, is to be unveiled for the first time at the International Police Expo Conference 2006 in Birmingham on 9 – 11 May.
ShootLive enables police photographers to take high resolution pictures in real-time and then send the images to a central hub over a wireless internet connection within 11 seconds of the camera click.
in the North East
A group of budding young filmmakers from the North East had the experience of a lifetime yesterday when they attended a workshop with professionals from film and advertising industries to learn some ‘tricks of the trade’.
The workshops were conducted as part of the Futures in Motion film competition run by First Light, the UK Film Council’s youth initiative, in conjunction with The National Lottery, and which aims to showcase the creativity of young people across the region.
Part of Newcastle’s Centre for Life was transformed into a film set for the day with cameras and props, and local film star Peter Flannery, scriptwriter for films including Funny Bones and The One and Only, as well as BAFTA winning Newcastle television program Our Friends in the North dropped by to lend his support and share his experiences. Multiple Oscar® winning director Ridley Scott, who is responsible classic films such Alien and Gladiator, and who grew up in South Shields, has also lent his support to what he calls a “great initiative”.
***************
i-blink
Coventry’s film festival is about to go International and will be scouring Europe for fresh new writing talent
The former blink film festival is going to be i-blink and to celebrate; the organisers have created a wonderful opportunity for budding film-makers to get their films made.
i-blink 2007 is to give young film makers from all over Europe the chance to have their scripts made into 10-minute films and the best 10 scripts submitted will be made into films and screened at the festival next January.
The innovative international scriptwriting competition is a key part of the film festival and is open budding directors, screenwriters and producers living or working in Europe.
Pete Woodbridge, one of the organisers of the i-blink film festival and a lecturer at Coventry University, said:
“We want the i-blink festival to become one of the fixtures and fittings of the international film festival scene and by launching the scriptwriting competition with the prize of having the script made into a film is a way of getting the film-makers to take notice.
“Coventry is a city a reputation for excellence in so many areas and an international film festival is the next logical step.
“We are looking for scripts about any subject of about 10 minutes in duration. There is no age limit and it’s open to everyone.”
Scripts are now being accepted and short-listed screenwriters will be identified later in the year. Film production will take place over the summer to produce the final 10 films by the end of November 2006.
The films will have their debut screening at the i-blink film festival which will form part of the internationally renowned MeCCSA and AMPE* conference which Coventry is hosting in 2007.
Pete Woodbridge added:
“Who knows, we could discover some rare talent who could go on to become the next Spielberg, Hitchcock or Lean. It is a wonderful opportunity for someone to see their work come to life and I hope it will fire peoples’ imagination.”
****************
IAFT ONE-YEAR IMMERSION PROGRAM GAINING MOMENTUM
2nd Session Continues To Attract Aspiring Filmmakers From Philippines and Around The Globe
CEBU, PHILIPPINES (April 27, 2006) – Upon successful completion of its inaugural session, the International Academy of Film and Television’s (IAFT) One-Year Immersion program rolls into its next batch of classes poised for another great session.
In addition to an influx of promising new students from as far the United Kingdom, the IAFT proudly announces the addition of three esteemed new mentors:
* Mark Gary, has worked as both director and Director of Photography for television commercials, with corporate clients such as Sprite, Wrigley, Sara Lee and Unilever;
* Roberto Minervini, Italian-born filmmaker and photographer who gained international recognition in 2001 for the experimental short film To Be A Woman; and
* Fred Straughen, who has worked in television production for over 20 years with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation as well as throughout Asia and Indonesia.
These new members will join highly regarded resident mentors Timothy Doolen and Fritz Kohle. Doolen has provided valuable instruction to students through IAFT’s short-term workshops and its first session.
Even with the stellar line-up of film industry veterans, unique beachside campus and state-of-the-art facilities, the cost of the One-Year Immersion Program will remain comparatively low at US$8,000 for international students and US$5,000 for local Filipino students.
The admissions department of IAFT notes that, given these favorable factors, there is an increasing amount of enquiries about the program from countries as far away as Australia and the United States.
To encourage budding filmmakers, IAFT has previously established a Scholarship Fund for students who wish to attend its courses. The Fund comprises three assistance programs: one need-based award, CineLikha Young Filmmaker Scholarship, and two merit-based awards, IAFT Lumière Fellowship and Emergent Artists Award.
Awards will be granted based on student’s annual income (for the need-based award) or prior creative history and demonstrated potential (for merit-based awards). For the second session, the Emergent Artists Award was granted to Filipino Joe Siclot, a Fine Arts graduate who demonstrated exceptional talent and would like to further his creative pursuits in the realm of filmmaking.
“We look forward to offering aspiring filmmakers from all corners of the world the opportunity to practice their craft at a world-class media facility,” says Kacy Andrews, CEO of Bigfoot Entertainment, the fully-integrated parent company of IAFT. “For many students, it’s their first exposure to the rigors and rewards of a career in the entertainment industry.”
The One-Year Immersion program, which consists of five 9-week courses, includes courses on cinematography, editing, directing, screenwriting, producing, filmmaking, sound design and other electives. Students will also get to work closely with the faculty members to for their final project which can be part of their professional reel.
IAFT accepts a new student intake every two months so subsequent terms will begin on June 5, August 14 and October 23. Housing is available for students at the 68-room Casablanca Gardens, which is a two-minute walk on campus.
For more information, please call +63-32-342-8889 or 1-866-300-7207 (toll-free from U.S.). Alternatively, you can visit www.filmschool.ph
****************
SHOOTLIVE TO CAPTURE CRIMINALS IN 11 SECONDS
Worldwide launch of revolutionary new technology at International Police Expo Conference 2006
ShootLive, www.shootlive.com a patent pending photography delivery process developed by the world renowned photography agency EMPICS, is to be unveiled for the first time at the International Police Expo Conference 2006 in Birmingham on 9 – 11 May.
ShootLive enables police photographers to take high resolution pictures in real-time and then send the images to a central hub over a wireless internet connection within 11 seconds of the camera click.
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Breaking into film and TV is tough if you're young and black
The need to have a vast array of personal contacts and to be able to work for months without pay is making it difficult for many young black and Asian media students to break into the film and broadcasting industry in London, according to new research published today.
Undertaken for the Southern and Eastern Region of the TUC (SERTUC), Skillset and BECTU by the Working Lives Research Institute at London Metropolitan University, the research says that whilst black and Asian employees make up 32 per cent of the capital's workforce, only 8 per cent of the people working in film and TV in London are from ethnic minorities.
According to the report, 'Making the transition from college to work: Experiences of media, film and television students in London's audio-visual industries', around a quarter of the UK's audio visual companies are based in London, employing a workforce of some 125,000. Given that every year around 25,000 students nationally graduate from media related courses, it's not easy for young people to get a foot in the door.
One of the key findings of the study which questioned almost 250 final-year and recently graduated students was that the freelance nature of the industry - over two-thirds (65 per cent) of the 21-30 year olds working in film and TV in London do so on a freelance basis - meant that an address book of contacts was key to finding work.
The report also refers to a recent survey which found that three-quarters of youngsters aged 20-23 had found it necessary to work for free for up to three months before finding permanent paid work. Some had put in up to six months unpaid work experience. And those fortunate enough to be able to take up work placement opportunities complained that they were often ignored, or seemed to spend their whole time delivering parcels or making tea and sandwiches.
'Making the transition' says that working as an unpaid runner for months on end is simply out of reach of the overwhelming majority of black and Asian students who tend to come from lower income backgrounds. Leaving college with student debts, combined with the high cost of living in London, meant that working for nothing - especially as the salary for those starting out in the audio visual industry can be as little as £12,000 - was simply not an option for most of the students surveyed.
The black and Asian students questioned by the researchers were also often critical of their colleges for not making the courses practical enough and for not helping them be prepared enough to enter the world of work. It was felt that better and earlier careers advice would help, as would the forging of stronger links with industry and the setting up of more work placements.
SERTUC Regional Secretary Mick Connolly said: "With so many film and TV wanabees leaving college every year desperate to work in film and TV, it's never going to be possible for everyone to land their dream job. But with the dice clearly loaded against students from lower income families, many of whom will be from ethnic minority backgrounds, they are going to find it much tougher than friends from more privileged backgrounds."
Dinah Caine, Chief Executive of Skillset, said: "Research such as this is critical if we are to support making sure that diversity is at the top of the agenda. Our workforce must be representative of our society if the content we produce is to reach the widest audience and be successful economically and culturally. Skillset has been working with the industry to address the issue but there is still more to be done, by every party involved."
Janice Turner, diversity officer at BECTU, said: "This research proves
what we'd known anecdotally for a long time that to get a foot in the door
and build a career you need contacts or money and preferably both, and
many newly qualified black and Asian youngsters have neither. The fact that there is such appalling under-representation of workers from ethnic minorities in the industry shows that real action needs to be taken. This is why BECTU has undertaken its two-year Move on Up initiative, aiming to bring together industry executives and young black and Asian professionals keen to get on in film and broadcast."
The research is to be presented later today to a seminar at SERTUC's offices in Congress House, attended by senior executives from film and TV companies in the capital.
The need to have a vast array of personal contacts and to be able to work for months without pay is making it difficult for many young black and Asian media students to break into the film and broadcasting industry in London, according to new research published today.
Undertaken for the Southern and Eastern Region of the TUC (SERTUC), Skillset and BECTU by the Working Lives Research Institute at London Metropolitan University, the research says that whilst black and Asian employees make up 32 per cent of the capital's workforce, only 8 per cent of the people working in film and TV in London are from ethnic minorities.
According to the report, 'Making the transition from college to work: Experiences of media, film and television students in London's audio-visual industries', around a quarter of the UK's audio visual companies are based in London, employing a workforce of some 125,000. Given that every year around 25,000 students nationally graduate from media related courses, it's not easy for young people to get a foot in the door.
One of the key findings of the study which questioned almost 250 final-year and recently graduated students was that the freelance nature of the industry - over two-thirds (65 per cent) of the 21-30 year olds working in film and TV in London do so on a freelance basis - meant that an address book of contacts was key to finding work.
The report also refers to a recent survey which found that three-quarters of youngsters aged 20-23 had found it necessary to work for free for up to three months before finding permanent paid work. Some had put in up to six months unpaid work experience. And those fortunate enough to be able to take up work placement opportunities complained that they were often ignored, or seemed to spend their whole time delivering parcels or making tea and sandwiches.
'Making the transition' says that working as an unpaid runner for months on end is simply out of reach of the overwhelming majority of black and Asian students who tend to come from lower income backgrounds. Leaving college with student debts, combined with the high cost of living in London, meant that working for nothing - especially as the salary for those starting out in the audio visual industry can be as little as £12,000 - was simply not an option for most of the students surveyed.
The black and Asian students questioned by the researchers were also often critical of their colleges for not making the courses practical enough and for not helping them be prepared enough to enter the world of work. It was felt that better and earlier careers advice would help, as would the forging of stronger links with industry and the setting up of more work placements.
SERTUC Regional Secretary Mick Connolly said: "With so many film and TV wanabees leaving college every year desperate to work in film and TV, it's never going to be possible for everyone to land their dream job. But with the dice clearly loaded against students from lower income families, many of whom will be from ethnic minority backgrounds, they are going to find it much tougher than friends from more privileged backgrounds."
Dinah Caine, Chief Executive of Skillset, said: "Research such as this is critical if we are to support making sure that diversity is at the top of the agenda. Our workforce must be representative of our society if the content we produce is to reach the widest audience and be successful economically and culturally. Skillset has been working with the industry to address the issue but there is still more to be done, by every party involved."
Janice Turner, diversity officer at BECTU, said: "This research proves
what we'd known anecdotally for a long time that to get a foot in the door
and build a career you need contacts or money and preferably both, and
many newly qualified black and Asian youngsters have neither. The fact that there is such appalling under-representation of workers from ethnic minorities in the industry shows that real action needs to be taken. This is why BECTU has undertaken its two-year Move on Up initiative, aiming to bring together industry executives and young black and Asian professionals keen to get on in film and broadcast."
The research is to be presented later today to a seminar at SERTUC's offices in Congress House, attended by senior executives from film and TV companies in the capital.
Tuesday, April 25, 2006
Boost For Capital’s Film Festivals
Lottery Funding provides greater choice of film for Londoners
Next round of applications now open
12 film festivals and education projects across London are set to receive funding and support from Film London’s Audience Development Fund, designed to increase the range of film available in the capital.
Over the next six months London will host film festivals on Spanish, Bangladeshi, African, Brazilian, and Black cinema, with venues across the capital participating in a wide range of screenings, talks and workshops.
The fund supports a varied calendar of events including the first-ever Fashion in Film Festival run by The Central Martin’s College of Art and Design in May, which will explore subjects as diverse as wartime fashion and wardrobe emergencies; Birds Eye View which will celebrate women’s film-making with a programme of shorts, features and silent films from May to September; and the London International Animation Festival which takes place in August.
Other projects to benefit include the forthcoming East End Film Festival which reflects the many communities in the area, whilst West London’s Portobello Film Festival will train unemployed people in event management alongside screenings of new films. The Curzon Soho Cinema is running a Short Film Summer School and Youth Animation Media will offer digital film-making and animation workshops for young people in Peckham.
Adrian Wootton, CEO of Film London said:
“Film is a great way to celebrate the diversity of the capital and these projects are all testament to London’s cultural vitality. We hope these festivals will also attract new audiences, increase the range of cinema available to local communities and inspire new film-makers.”
Applications are now invited for the new round of the Film London Audience Development Fund from cinema projects and film festivals taking place in the capital between 1 October 2006 and 31 March 2007.
The deadline for the new round of applications for the Film London Audience Development Fund is 12 noon, Friday 30 June 2006. Free information sessions will be held on 18 May, 11am-1pm and 7 June, 4-6pm at Film London, Suite 6.10, The Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JJ. To attend, please contact: morinade.akinbobola@filmlondon.org.uk.
The Film London Audience Development Fund is the result of RIFE (Regional Investment Fund of England) Lottery Funds, distributed by Film London on behalf of the UK Film Council.
The following projects have received funding in the latest round of awards:
BLACK FILMMAKERS’ MAGAZINE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
£5,000
BFM International Film Festival will run over seven days at the ICA and Prince Charles Cinema in Central London from 8-16 September. This annual event showcases black world cinema and aims to create new audiences for this work. This year’s programme has a special focus on the Nigerian film industry (‘Nollywood’) and will also include a black film retrospective, screening some of the most important films that have shaped British black film-making.
In addition to screenings, the festival provides a platform for the work of UK black film-makers across genre; introduces new film-makers to mainstream audiences through its Short Film Awards; and provides opportunities for black individuals and businesses to network with industry professionals through workshops run in partnership with ITV, BBC and London Film Academy.
BIRDS EYE VIEW
£7,500
Birds Eye View runs special events, festivals and educational programmes to promote the work of women film-makers. This season extends from March to September, and comprises a documentary season at the ICA (11-13 May); a shorts and features strand at Apollo, Regent Street (1-4 May) with screenings, master-classes and Q&As with women filmmakers with new films; a City Screenings and Education Programme with daytime workshops for teenagers at Rio Dalston, Phoenix East Finchley, David Lean Croydon and Watermans in Brent (May-July); and Sound & Silents, with live music accompaniment to screenings of archive and contemporary shorts (September). Highlights of the programme will also tour nationally.
FASHION IN FILM FESTIVAL
£4,000
Central St Martins College of Art and Design will run the first Fashion in Film Festival from 12-21 May 2006. The festival will take place at the ICA, Cine Lumiere and The Horse Hospital as well as at venues in the London Boroughs of Camden, Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea. Partners include the Imperial War Museum, Italian Cultural Institute and a range of other organisations and individuals. There will be 11 screenings and several talks and events. Films to be screened include Vertigo, The Gay Shoe Clerk, Paris is Burning and Chop Suey.
SHORT FILM SUMMER SCHOOL
£3,000
The Short Film Summer School will run from 12-15 July 2006 at the Curzon Soho and will showcase recent and archive shorts and host panel discussions, Q&As, workshops and networking sessions. This year will have a focus on young people, HD-produced shorts and Behind the Scenes workshops. This project is also to be funded via Film London’s Skills and Training budget.
EDMONTON AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL
£2,000
Run by Enfield Arts Partnership, the Edmonton African Film Festival will take place at the ArtsZone, Enfield from 30 May-4 June 2006, showing films from South Africa, Burkina Faso, Mali and Senegal.
THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FILM FESTIVAL
£8,000
The London International Animation Film Festival 2006 will run from April-November 2006, including over 200 short and feature animated films, several satellite events and open air screenings as well as animation workshops for children and young adults.
PORTOBELLO FILM FESTIVAL
£8,000
The Portobello Film Festival 2006 runs from 3-22 August in West London. The festival will screen over 500 new films in different strands. The programme will include a family circus tent and an award ceremony at The Electric Cinema.
THE 2nd UK BRAZILIAN FILM FESTIVAL
£ 3,000
The 2nd UK Brazilian Film Festival programme will include features, medium-length films and shorts covering documentary, fiction, animation and experimental formats as well as debates, Q&As and a retrospective of director Domingos de Oliveira. The Festival will work alongside the University of London to run a workshop combined with talks from film scholars and will also host a photography exhibition by Brazilian Fernando Barbera and a retrospective of Brazilian video art at the Tate Modern.
Screenings will take place at the Genesis Cinema and at other venues in West and South London. As well as the main festival, a monthly night of shorts will run from March to August at the Corbet Place Bar, Old Truman Brewery.
THE EAST END FILM FESTIVAL
£7,500
The East End Film Festival, 27 April-4 May 2006, will run a week long programme of films, special events and workshops in venues across East London including Genesis Cinema, Mile End; The Rio, Dalston; The Rich Mix, Bethnal Green; Stratford Circus; Picture House, Newham; and the UGC West India Quay.
The Festival has eight main strands, ranging from the main screening programmes, to education and professional development events, and provides opportunities for emerging and established film-makers living in the region, as well as programmes of high-quality films from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, chosen to reflect one of the core communities of the East End. In addition, Eastern European, East Asian and African and Caribbean strands further represents the increasing diversity of the region. The Professional Development strand, comprising workshops, panel discussions, competitions, networking events and master classes is a new development for 2006.
THE SPANISH FILM FESTIVAL
£ 5,000
The 2006 Spanish Film Festival will take place at Cine Lumiere from 22-28 September 2006. There will be a selection of around 15 Spanish films with Q&As, directors’ talks, a schools’ screening, and a seminar at the Institute Cervantes.
YOUTH ANIMATION AND MEDIA
£2,000
Based in Peckham, Youth Animation Media will run digital film-making and animation workshops for young people during the school mid-term break from 29 May-2 June 2006. Completed films will be screened at the centre alongside a retrospective of previous films and the audience choice will be shown on 18 June at Peckham Multiplex.
THE BANGLADESHI FILM FESTIVAL
£3,000
The 7th Bangladeshi Film Festival in East London, 4-11 June 2006, will include seminars and workshops. The festival coincides with the 50th year of Bangladeshi cinema and extra activities around the festival including programming from the last 50 years, a photo/poster exhibition and the publication of a special book on 50 years of Bangladeshi Film are also planned. Bangladeshi films will be screened in at least 10 schools in Tower Hamlets.
******
Film London is the capital’s film and media agency. Film London sustains, promotes and develops London as a major international film-making and film cultural capital. This includes all the screen industries based in London – film, television, video, commercials and new interactive media. Film London is supported by the UK Film Council and the London Development Agency through Creative London. Film London also receives significant support from Arts Council England London, the European Regional Development Fund, the Mayor of London and Skillset.
www.filmlondon.org.uk
Lottery Funding provides greater choice of film for Londoners
Next round of applications now open
12 film festivals and education projects across London are set to receive funding and support from Film London’s Audience Development Fund, designed to increase the range of film available in the capital.
Over the next six months London will host film festivals on Spanish, Bangladeshi, African, Brazilian, and Black cinema, with venues across the capital participating in a wide range of screenings, talks and workshops.
The fund supports a varied calendar of events including the first-ever Fashion in Film Festival run by The Central Martin’s College of Art and Design in May, which will explore subjects as diverse as wartime fashion and wardrobe emergencies; Birds Eye View which will celebrate women’s film-making with a programme of shorts, features and silent films from May to September; and the London International Animation Festival which takes place in August.
Other projects to benefit include the forthcoming East End Film Festival which reflects the many communities in the area, whilst West London’s Portobello Film Festival will train unemployed people in event management alongside screenings of new films. The Curzon Soho Cinema is running a Short Film Summer School and Youth Animation Media will offer digital film-making and animation workshops for young people in Peckham.
Adrian Wootton, CEO of Film London said:
“Film is a great way to celebrate the diversity of the capital and these projects are all testament to London’s cultural vitality. We hope these festivals will also attract new audiences, increase the range of cinema available to local communities and inspire new film-makers.”
Applications are now invited for the new round of the Film London Audience Development Fund from cinema projects and film festivals taking place in the capital between 1 October 2006 and 31 March 2007.
The deadline for the new round of applications for the Film London Audience Development Fund is 12 noon, Friday 30 June 2006. Free information sessions will be held on 18 May, 11am-1pm and 7 June, 4-6pm at Film London, Suite 6.10, The Tea Building, 56 Shoreditch High Street, London E1 6JJ. To attend, please contact: morinade.akinbobola@filmlondon.org.uk.
The Film London Audience Development Fund is the result of RIFE (Regional Investment Fund of England) Lottery Funds, distributed by Film London on behalf of the UK Film Council.
The following projects have received funding in the latest round of awards:
BLACK FILMMAKERS’ MAGAZINE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL
£5,000
BFM International Film Festival will run over seven days at the ICA and Prince Charles Cinema in Central London from 8-16 September. This annual event showcases black world cinema and aims to create new audiences for this work. This year’s programme has a special focus on the Nigerian film industry (‘Nollywood’) and will also include a black film retrospective, screening some of the most important films that have shaped British black film-making.
In addition to screenings, the festival provides a platform for the work of UK black film-makers across genre; introduces new film-makers to mainstream audiences through its Short Film Awards; and provides opportunities for black individuals and businesses to network with industry professionals through workshops run in partnership with ITV, BBC and London Film Academy.
BIRDS EYE VIEW
£7,500
Birds Eye View runs special events, festivals and educational programmes to promote the work of women film-makers. This season extends from March to September, and comprises a documentary season at the ICA (11-13 May); a shorts and features strand at Apollo, Regent Street (1-4 May) with screenings, master-classes and Q&As with women filmmakers with new films; a City Screenings and Education Programme with daytime workshops for teenagers at Rio Dalston, Phoenix East Finchley, David Lean Croydon and Watermans in Brent (May-July); and Sound & Silents, with live music accompaniment to screenings of archive and contemporary shorts (September). Highlights of the programme will also tour nationally.
FASHION IN FILM FESTIVAL
£4,000
Central St Martins College of Art and Design will run the first Fashion in Film Festival from 12-21 May 2006. The festival will take place at the ICA, Cine Lumiere and The Horse Hospital as well as at venues in the London Boroughs of Camden, Westminster and Kensington and Chelsea. Partners include the Imperial War Museum, Italian Cultural Institute and a range of other organisations and individuals. There will be 11 screenings and several talks and events. Films to be screened include Vertigo, The Gay Shoe Clerk, Paris is Burning and Chop Suey.
SHORT FILM SUMMER SCHOOL
£3,000
The Short Film Summer School will run from 12-15 July 2006 at the Curzon Soho and will showcase recent and archive shorts and host panel discussions, Q&As, workshops and networking sessions. This year will have a focus on young people, HD-produced shorts and Behind the Scenes workshops. This project is also to be funded via Film London’s Skills and Training budget.
EDMONTON AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL
£2,000
Run by Enfield Arts Partnership, the Edmonton African Film Festival will take place at the ArtsZone, Enfield from 30 May-4 June 2006, showing films from South Africa, Burkina Faso, Mali and Senegal.
THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL ANIMATION FILM FESTIVAL
£8,000
The London International Animation Film Festival 2006 will run from April-November 2006, including over 200 short and feature animated films, several satellite events and open air screenings as well as animation workshops for children and young adults.
PORTOBELLO FILM FESTIVAL
£8,000
The Portobello Film Festival 2006 runs from 3-22 August in West London. The festival will screen over 500 new films in different strands. The programme will include a family circus tent and an award ceremony at The Electric Cinema.
THE 2nd UK BRAZILIAN FILM FESTIVAL
£ 3,000
The 2nd UK Brazilian Film Festival programme will include features, medium-length films and shorts covering documentary, fiction, animation and experimental formats as well as debates, Q&As and a retrospective of director Domingos de Oliveira. The Festival will work alongside the University of London to run a workshop combined with talks from film scholars and will also host a photography exhibition by Brazilian Fernando Barbera and a retrospective of Brazilian video art at the Tate Modern.
Screenings will take place at the Genesis Cinema and at other venues in West and South London. As well as the main festival, a monthly night of shorts will run from March to August at the Corbet Place Bar, Old Truman Brewery.
THE EAST END FILM FESTIVAL
£7,500
The East End Film Festival, 27 April-4 May 2006, will run a week long programme of films, special events and workshops in venues across East London including Genesis Cinema, Mile End; The Rio, Dalston; The Rich Mix, Bethnal Green; Stratford Circus; Picture House, Newham; and the UGC West India Quay.
The Festival has eight main strands, ranging from the main screening programmes, to education and professional development events, and provides opportunities for emerging and established film-makers living in the region, as well as programmes of high-quality films from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, chosen to reflect one of the core communities of the East End. In addition, Eastern European, East Asian and African and Caribbean strands further represents the increasing diversity of the region. The Professional Development strand, comprising workshops, panel discussions, competitions, networking events and master classes is a new development for 2006.
THE SPANISH FILM FESTIVAL
£ 5,000
The 2006 Spanish Film Festival will take place at Cine Lumiere from 22-28 September 2006. There will be a selection of around 15 Spanish films with Q&As, directors’ talks, a schools’ screening, and a seminar at the Institute Cervantes.
YOUTH ANIMATION AND MEDIA
£2,000
Based in Peckham, Youth Animation Media will run digital film-making and animation workshops for young people during the school mid-term break from 29 May-2 June 2006. Completed films will be screened at the centre alongside a retrospective of previous films and the audience choice will be shown on 18 June at Peckham Multiplex.
THE BANGLADESHI FILM FESTIVAL
£3,000
The 7th Bangladeshi Film Festival in East London, 4-11 June 2006, will include seminars and workshops. The festival coincides with the 50th year of Bangladeshi cinema and extra activities around the festival including programming from the last 50 years, a photo/poster exhibition and the publication of a special book on 50 years of Bangladeshi Film are also planned. Bangladeshi films will be screened in at least 10 schools in Tower Hamlets.
******
Film London is the capital’s film and media agency. Film London sustains, promotes and develops London as a major international film-making and film cultural capital. This includes all the screen industries based in London – film, television, video, commercials and new interactive media. Film London is supported by the UK Film Council and the London Development Agency through Creative London. Film London also receives significant support from Arts Council England London, the European Regional Development Fund, the Mayor of London and Skillset.
www.filmlondon.org.uk
CUT! HORROR COMPETITION
THE HORROR CHANNEL PRESENTS
UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY FOR ASPIRING DIRECTORS
Bloodthirsty budding directors with a passion for horror are being offered a unique opportunity to have
their work judged by experts in the movie industry.
The Horror Channel, in association with Ghost House Mobile, is running a unique short film competition
and has secured a panel of elite judges including US producer Rob Tapert (The Grudge and
The Evil Dead), New York director Lloyd Kaufman (Toxic Avenger, Tromeo & Juliet and the upcoming
Poultrygeist) and internationally renowned film critic Alan Jones.
The aptly-titled competition CUT!, launches in the UK on April 17 and entrants are encouraged to send
in a two-minute horror film. The winners will get the chance to see their names in lights and their films
on the big screen. The films will also be edited for mobile and made available on an exclusive Horror
Channel WAP site launching in mid-April and on Ghost House Mobile.
The winner of the Short Film Competition will receive £5000 and the top three winning films will be
shown to a packed public theatre at the next prestigious Frightfest at The Odeon in Leicester Square.
There are also excellent cash prizes for runner ups.
“The movie industry can be a cut-throat business and we are delighted to be able to provide a platform
for a filmmaker to showcase their work from,” says Zone Vision’s Chief Business Development and
New Media Officer Tanya Gugenheim. “Zone Vision, which owns The Horror Channel, continues to be
at the forefront of new media trends, and working with some of the industry’s top talent such as
Rob Tapert and Lloyd Kaufman, also helps us to reach new audiences.”
“I think this is a great way to find new, exciting talent. The CUT! competition is open to anyone with
a camera, an idea and the desire to shoot something cool and scary. I'm really looking forward to
seeing what the filmmakers of tomorrow create,” says Rob Tapert.
Lloyd Kaufman says: “This competition is more exciting than the Commonwealth Games!”
The closing date for CUT! is June 16
For more information about how to enter, log onto www.thehorrorchannel.tv
HORROR CHANNEL WAP SITE:
http://horror.zonemobile.tv or text the word HORROR to 83239
GHOST HOUSE MOBILE WAP SITE:
www.wap.ghosthousemobile.com or text the word: GHOST to 86222
Vividas launches landmark video streaming suite
Vivcast Encoding Suite solves complexity of publishing large quantities
of video content online
London 25 April, 2006: Vividas, one of the world's leading developers and providers of full-screen video streaming technology, today announces the launch of its Vivcast Encoding Suite. This new range provides an all-in-one digital encoder for any organisation that wishes to publish large quantities of video content on the Internet.
The Vivcast units are a simple, cost-effective means for organisations or resellers to deliver platform independent, full-screen, broadcast-quality video content instantly to an unlimited global audience. Whether it's a broadcaster wanting to stream the latest TV programme, or a company making its annual CEO announcement, Vivcast has been specially designed to stream video content quickly and conveniently, without users needing to download software before viewing.
In the past, companies had to rely on a number of different suppliers to provide the hardware, software and hosting services to make large-scale video communications possible. This caused logistical nightmares, compounded by the management of encoding to a range of different formats. Vivcast technology offers the whole package in one box and one universal format, with a simple pricing structure and product support. Companies will be charged for the box rental, as well as pay per view charge for each user.
Vivcast has a broad market base, developed to cater for the video requirements of anyone from advertising agencies and those looking to set-up an internet TV station, to video resellers and the big internet players like Google and AOL. The unit is simply rented for a monthly flat fee, rather than users being charged confusing tariffs based on gigabytes per month or set-up fees. Vividas uses a standard web server to deliver the video, so it can easily be integrated into existing companies infrastructure.
Vivcast offers the additional benefit of security, allowing organisations to produce, encode and distribute videos with sensitive company data internally, rather than relying on an outside supplier, and with Full Digital Rights Management support (DRM).
Vivcast also provides video that can be viewed by anyone with internet access, from a dial-up connection to high-speed broadband.
Richard Collins, CEO of Vividas, commented: "Until now, large-scale video communications have been complicated to set-up and expensive to maintain. We are offering corporates a one-stop-shop for their video requirements with a simple pricing structure and unlimited number of streams. Quite simply, Vividas is making full-screen, mass video streaming affordable and simple for the first time. We're looking forward to rapid expansion over the next few months as the product suite really takes off."
Monday, April 24, 2006
TCM 2 TO LAUNCH ON SKY ON MAY 2ND
London, 24th April, 2006: TCM (Turner Classic Movies) On Tuesday 2nd May 2006 TCM 2 launches exclusively in the UK on Sky channel 320, next to TCM on 319 on the SKY Guide. The new channel will broadcasts from 7pm to 3am daily and is set to complement its sister channel TCM, which draws on a library of the 20th century movies from Hollywood’s golden age to contemporary classics.
TCM 2 provides further choice for the existing movie-loving audience by celebrating the original classics from Hollywood’s history. It also gives film heritage enthusiasts the chance to revel in universally loved films such as The Wizard of Oz, North By Northwest, The Maltese Falcon, Dr Zhivago and Casablanca. Helping to enrich the cinematic experience, audiences will also be given the chance to sing-a-long with some of the most magical musicals ever made. TCM 2’s schedule will also include originally produced content like its OFF SET interviews where current movie stars and directors talk about their love of original Hollywood.
TCM 2 introduces a bold new approach to scheduling for the first four months showing the same 3 or 4 movies every night for a week. The movies start from 7pm, with the prime time movie being shown at either 9pm or 9.30pm and the late night movie at either 11.30 pm or midnight. The selection of films will change on Sundays. This means that TCM 2 viewers get every possible opportunity to enjoy their favourite movies on a day that is convenient for them. Moreover, it will also attract new audiences who have yet to experience the original glamour of Hollywood’s golden era. During the first week of its life on air, between 2-6th May, TCM 2 is broadcasting a sing-a-long version of the Wizard of Oz.
An individual new look campaign for TCM 2, building on the existing TCM brand, is being created for the new channel. TCM is working with a US-based design agency, Fuel, to produce a 60” launch promo and cut downs to give TCM 2 a clear identity of its own but with a definite link to TCM. By taking the back-projected light boxes, which are integral to the TCM brand, Fuel has developed a bright, new look for TCM 2. This exciting approach works with the central theme of natural light and combines it with fascinating imagery of natural phenomena. Light is woven through, and explodes around, a series of classic film clips culminating in a swirl that reveals the number two and ends with TCM 2 displayed in a light box.
Alan Musa TCM VP and Channel Manager commented: ‘By creating a new home for our original classics, TCM 2 gives us a great opportunity to celebrate the wonderful movies in our vast library. TCM will continue to show some of these classic favourites but we can now expand and develop. By introducing new documentaries, more contemporary classics and international films we can ensure that there is always something new for our viewers to experience on TCM while they can find a guaranteed favourite on TCM 2.’
Nicola Bamford, Director of Channels and Operations at Sky said:
‘The launch of TCM 2 on Sky reinforces our platform’s position as the number one entertainment choice, offering the widest range of movie channels in the UK and Ireland.’
TAB HUNTER IN PERSON
In addition to the May 1 visit of Isabella Rossellini, considerable star wattage will be generated on Saturday, May 13, when actor and American screen icon Tab Hunter joins us to present a newly restored 35mm print of director Phil Karlson’s overlooked psychological Western, Gunman’s Walk (1958).
Gunman’s Walk is a personal favorite of Hunter’s films, and, post-screening, he will discuss his career, answer audience questions, and sign copies of his tell-all autobiography. The book, Tab Hunter Confidential, reveals Hunter’s secret life as a gay man within the Hollywood star system. Hunter’s considerable charm, blond hair, and athletic good looks made him one of the most popular leading men of the late 1950s and early 1960s.
His motion picture career spans more than five decades and covers such gems as Damn Yankees (1958) and John Waters’s Polyester (1981). His co-stars include Natalie Wood, Robert Mitchum, John Wayne, Sophia Loren, and Gary Cooper, and he was directed by such legendary figures as Raoul Walsh, Stanley Donen, William Wellman, and Sidney Lumet. He is also a veteran of stage and television. In Gunman’s Walk, Hunter offers his most riveting performance as the violent and hotheaded Ed Hackett, the son of gunslinger-turned-land-baron Lee Hackett (Van Heflin). The elder Hackett encourages Ed’s disturbing behavior, while virtually ignoring his law-abiding younger son Davy (Hunter’s fellow teen idol James Darren). Inevitably, Ed goes one step too far, forcing Lee to make a devastating decision. Veteran director Karlson’s inventive use of CinemaScope is just one reason to discover this powerful drama on the Dryden’s big screen.
Tickets are $10, $8 members and students. Advance tickets are available at the Dryden box office, the Museum’s admissions desk, by Credit Card Online, or by calling (585) 271-3361 ext. 218. No Take-10 tickets or passes will be accepted for this event.
Programs/Events: http://www.eastmanhouse.org/inc/programs_events/film.php
Credit Card Online: http://shop-eastmanhouse.org/index.html#tickets
Buy Tab's Book: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1565124669/ref=ase_tabhuntercom-20/104-8778789-4247124?s=books&v=glance&n=283155&tagActionCode=tabhuntercom-20
Friday, April 21, 2006
THE CULT INDIE HORROR-COMEDY NOW ON DVD FOR THE FIRST TIME EVER!
Set to do for serial killer genre what "Shaun Of The Dead" did for zombie flicks, the cult indie horror-comedy, FREAK OUT, comes to DVD in May as an extras-packed, two-disc edition courtesy of Anchor Bay UK. Already a massive hit on the independent film festival circuit and winner of both the Best Genre Cross Over Award at the Rhode Island International Film Festival and the Commendation Award at Manchester's International Festival of Fantastic Films, FREAK OUT has been hailed by acclaimed horror director Mick Garris (Masters Of Horror; The Shining) as "a wild, woolly sledgehammer to the face of Hollywood conformity."
Geeky horror movie fan Merv Doody (James Heathcote) receives the ultimate reality check when he unexpectedly discovers an inept and potentially homicidal lunatic hiding in his shower. Instead of following the time-honoured horror tradition of screaming like a girl and running for his life, Merv decides upon a less conventional option ? turning his would-be attacker into the ultimate masked maniac. With the help of his best friend Onkey (Dan Palmer), Merv sets about training Looney in the ways of the silver screen's most unstoppable killing machines ? Jason Vorhees, Freddy Krueger and Michael Myers. But Looney learns his lessons too well and, armed with his deadly cooking spatula, goes on an uncontrollable rampage carving his way through the residents of the previously quiet island town of Redwater Cove. Among those in Looney's psychotic sights are a gang of hard-drinking lesbians, a horde of crazed Larry Hagman fans and US ska-punk legends, Less Than Jake. The question is: can Merv and Onkey stop their monster before it's too late?
Four years in the making, FREAK OUT is a hilarious and irreverent parody of the slasher genre, packed with juvenile double-entendres, witty pop-culture references and knowing nods to numerous horror classics. A treat for horror aficionados who don't take their terror too seriously, it is a must-see for splatter fans and comedy buffs alike.
The two-disc edition of FREAK OUT (cert. 15) will be released on DVD (?16.99) by Anchor Bay UK on 29th May 2006.
Special Features
Disc One
Audio commentary by director Christian James, actor/writer Dan Palmer and actor/producer Yazz Fetto; audio commentary by director Christian James, actor/writer Dan Palmer and cast members James Heathcote, Nicola Connell and Chilli Gold moderated by BBC Radio 1 movie critic James King; stereo 2.0; optional Dolby Digital 5.1 and DTS; optional English subtitles for the hard of hearing; scene selection.
Disc Two
Making Out ? behind the scenes of the four-year shoot of the film; Bum Feeling 101; Geek Out ? internet movie critics express their opinions; Zaniac music video; 5 Minute Film School ? tips for wannabe filmmakers; Honey I Blew Up The Looney; deleted scenes; The Video Store.
Thursday, April 20, 2006
GWENDOLINE
"EMMANUELLE" MEETS "RAIDERS OF THE LOST IN ARK" IN THE GUILTY PLEASURE MOVIE TO END THEM ALL!
Freely adapted from John Willie's celebrated erotic comic strip, which appeared in his bondage and fetish magazine "Bizarre" during the late 1940s and early 1950s, and directed by acclaimed master of erotica Just Jaeckin (Lady Chatterley's Lover; The Story Of O; Emmanuelle), the much sought after fantastical comedy-adventure GWENDOLINE is without a doubt one of the greatest "guilty pleasure" movies of all time. Now, this cult classic is finally coming to DVD, uncut for the first time in the UK and loaded with extra features.
Combining the sensual imagery of "Emmanuelle" with the tongue-in-cheek heroics of the Indiana Jones movies, GWENDOLINE stars Brent Huff (Glass Trap; Submerged; Beautiful), French model and actress Zabou (La crise; C'est la vie) and, as the eponymous heroine, Tawny Kitaen (Hercules:The Legendary Journeys; Witchboard; Bachelor
Party), the former Mrs. David Coverdale best known for her appearances in the now legendary "trilogy" of Whitesnake music videos.
In search of her father who has mysteriously disappeared while on a mission to find a mythical species of butterfly, Gwendoline (Tawny Kitaen)and her sexy sidekick Beth (Zabou) travel as stowaways on a ship bound for the Far East. On arrival, the cute companions are abducted and imprisoned by a gang of lecherous seamen with
extremely dishonourable intentions. Luckily, the two heroines are rescued by a hunky but mercenary adventurer, Willard (Brent Huff), a man for whom money means more than anything. Quickly realizing that Willard could be of some assistance,Gwendoline blackmails him into joining her and Beth on their quest and soon the trio are
embarking on a daring and deadly journey into the Land of the Yik Yak, a country ruled by a diabolical dominant Amazon queen and her army of scantily-clad, fetishistic female warriors. There, Gwendoline must defeat the evil queen and
prevent Willard from being forced to spawn a new race of female warriors before facing certain death.
A fun-filled voyeuristic voyage into a fantasy world of flesh-baring fetishists, GWENDOLINE is an unmissable adventure guaranteed to delight fans of off-the-wall cult cinema.
GWENDOLINE (cert. 18) will be released on DVD by Nucleus Films on 5th June 2006. Special Features include: widescreen (2.35:1) presentation enhanced for widescreen TVs; audio commentary by director Just Jaeckin and Frédéric Albert Levy,
moderated by Tony Crawley; The Perils of Just - an all new interview with director Just Jaeckin; Gwendoline and the BBFC (the BBFC cuts lists for the original UK 1984 cinema and video releases); Tawny Kitaen's Lui Magazine Glamour Shoot;
theatrical trailer; UK promo trailer; American opening credits; image gallery (posters, stills, press books, poster art, video art); double-sided
sleeve; English Stereo 2.0; English Stereo 5.1; French Stereo 2.0 (with English subtitles); French Stereo 5.1 (with English subtitles).
"EMMANUELLE" MEETS "RAIDERS OF THE LOST IN ARK" IN THE GUILTY PLEASURE MOVIE TO END THEM ALL!
Freely adapted from John Willie's celebrated erotic comic strip, which appeared in his bondage and fetish magazine "Bizarre" during the late 1940s and early 1950s, and directed by acclaimed master of erotica Just Jaeckin (Lady Chatterley's Lover; The Story Of O; Emmanuelle), the much sought after fantastical comedy-adventure GWENDOLINE is without a doubt one of the greatest "guilty pleasure" movies of all time. Now, this cult classic is finally coming to DVD, uncut for the first time in the UK and loaded with extra features.
Combining the sensual imagery of "Emmanuelle" with the tongue-in-cheek heroics of the Indiana Jones movies, GWENDOLINE stars Brent Huff (Glass Trap; Submerged; Beautiful), French model and actress Zabou (La crise; C'est la vie) and, as the eponymous heroine, Tawny Kitaen (Hercules:The Legendary Journeys; Witchboard; Bachelor
Party), the former Mrs. David Coverdale best known for her appearances in the now legendary "trilogy" of Whitesnake music videos.
In search of her father who has mysteriously disappeared while on a mission to find a mythical species of butterfly, Gwendoline (Tawny Kitaen)and her sexy sidekick Beth (Zabou) travel as stowaways on a ship bound for the Far East. On arrival, the cute companions are abducted and imprisoned by a gang of lecherous seamen with
extremely dishonourable intentions. Luckily, the two heroines are rescued by a hunky but mercenary adventurer, Willard (Brent Huff), a man for whom money means more than anything. Quickly realizing that Willard could be of some assistance,Gwendoline blackmails him into joining her and Beth on their quest and soon the trio are
embarking on a daring and deadly journey into the Land of the Yik Yak, a country ruled by a diabolical dominant Amazon queen and her army of scantily-clad, fetishistic female warriors. There, Gwendoline must defeat the evil queen and
prevent Willard from being forced to spawn a new race of female warriors before facing certain death.
A fun-filled voyeuristic voyage into a fantasy world of flesh-baring fetishists, GWENDOLINE is an unmissable adventure guaranteed to delight fans of off-the-wall cult cinema.
GWENDOLINE (cert. 18) will be released on DVD by Nucleus Films on 5th June 2006. Special Features include: widescreen (2.35:1) presentation enhanced for widescreen TVs; audio commentary by director Just Jaeckin and Frédéric Albert Levy,
moderated by Tony Crawley; The Perils of Just - an all new interview with director Just Jaeckin; Gwendoline and the BBFC (the BBFC cuts lists for the original UK 1984 cinema and video releases); Tawny Kitaen's Lui Magazine Glamour Shoot;
theatrical trailer; UK promo trailer; American opening credits; image gallery (posters, stills, press books, poster art, video art); double-sided
sleeve; English Stereo 2.0; English Stereo 5.1; French Stereo 2.0 (with English subtitles); French Stereo 5.1 (with English subtitles).
Toto The Hero
Second Sight is delighted to announce the long awaited release of the multi-award winning world cinema classic Toto The Hero. It will be released for the first time ever on DVD on 15 May 2006.
Former circus performer Jaco Van Dormael’s first feature proved a sweeping hit at film festivals and box office alike, garnering the prestigious Camera D’Or at Cannes Film Festival and a BAFTA nomination.
Convinced that a nursery fire lead to them being mixed up as babies, Thomas has been consumed with jealous hatred for his wealthy and successful neighbour Alfred, the man he believes stole the life that should have been his. And now, an old man, he reflects on the past, the tragedies of his own life and his thoughts turn to vengeance.
The film switches between the three ages of Thomas: the youngster (Thomas Godet), the adult (Jo De Backer) and the bitter old man (Michel Bouquet). The song Boum by famed French singer Charles Trenet continually recurs as an anthem to his nostalgia.
Skilfully cutting between past and present, comedy and tragedy, Van Dormael’s poignant, dream-like film has been hailed as a true original.
Extras include 52 minute ‘making of’.
Title: Toto The Hero
Release Date: 15 May 2006
RRP: £19.99
*****************
Monsieur Hire
This stylish psychological drama from one of France’s most acclaimed directors, Patrice Leconte, will be released for the first time ever on DVD courtesy of Second Sight on 15 May 2006.
Starring Sandrine Bonnairre (La Ceremonie) one of the most esteemed actresses in her homeland and Michel Blanc, (Tenue De Soiree) one of France’s most popular and prolific funny men, who has also turned his hand to acting and directing with great aplomb.
A young girl is found murdered and the police are led to the reclusive Monsieur Hire (Blanc). Living a mundane existence his greatest pleasure is to watch Alice (Bonnaire) who lives in the opposite apartment. One night she catches sight of his pallid face at the window, illuminated momentarily by a flash of lightning. Her initial fear gives way to seemingly seductive intentions as they are drawn into each other”s lives.
Patrice Leconte’s highly acclaimed film is an enigmatic tale of love and obsession played with haunting subtlety.
With such films as The Hairdresser's Husband and The Girl On the Bridge, Leconte has built a reputation as one of the most respected and versatile French directors.
Title: Monsiur Hire
Release Date: 15 May 2006
RRP: £19.99
****************
THE GAME – SPECIAL EDITION DVD
“Extremely stylish”
The Times
Universal Pictures is delighted to announce the release of the Special Edition of David Fincher’s stylish psychological thriller The Game.
Available on DVD from 8 May 2006 this Special Edition DVD includes:
* Alternate ending
* Director’s Commentary
* 30 mins On Location Footage
* CGI Test Footage
Starring Michael Douglas (Wonder Boys, Falling Down) alongside Sean Penn (Mystic River, 21 Grams) and Deborah Kara Unger (Crash, White Noise).
Nicholas Van Orton (Douglas), a wealthy San Francisco investment banker, appears to have everything a man could desire - huge house, expensive clothes, executive car.
On his 48th birthday, however, his younger brother Conrad (Penn) buys him an invite to take part in an exclusive, elaborate live-action game - a game which soon turns into Van Orton’s worst nightmare. Thrown into a world where the line between reality and fiction is dangerously blurred Van Orton loses the one thing most important to him - his ability to be in control.
From the visionary director David Fincher (Fight Club, Se7en), The Game is a grippingly dark and imaginative thriller played out against a sinister backdrop of dim and dirty city streets.
“Clever and unsettling…those who dare to play will enjoy the intriguing ride.”
The Mirror
Title: The Game Special Edition Release Date: 8 May 2006
RRP (recommended retail price): £15.99
Second Sight is delighted to announce the long awaited release of the multi-award winning world cinema classic Toto The Hero. It will be released for the first time ever on DVD on 15 May 2006.
Former circus performer Jaco Van Dormael’s first feature proved a sweeping hit at film festivals and box office alike, garnering the prestigious Camera D’Or at Cannes Film Festival and a BAFTA nomination.
Convinced that a nursery fire lead to them being mixed up as babies, Thomas has been consumed with jealous hatred for his wealthy and successful neighbour Alfred, the man he believes stole the life that should have been his. And now, an old man, he reflects on the past, the tragedies of his own life and his thoughts turn to vengeance.
The film switches between the three ages of Thomas: the youngster (Thomas Godet), the adult (Jo De Backer) and the bitter old man (Michel Bouquet). The song Boum by famed French singer Charles Trenet continually recurs as an anthem to his nostalgia.
Skilfully cutting between past and present, comedy and tragedy, Van Dormael’s poignant, dream-like film has been hailed as a true original.
Extras include 52 minute ‘making of’.
Title: Toto The Hero
Release Date: 15 May 2006
RRP: £19.99
*****************
Monsieur Hire
This stylish psychological drama from one of France’s most acclaimed directors, Patrice Leconte, will be released for the first time ever on DVD courtesy of Second Sight on 15 May 2006.
Starring Sandrine Bonnairre (La Ceremonie) one of the most esteemed actresses in her homeland and Michel Blanc, (Tenue De Soiree) one of France’s most popular and prolific funny men, who has also turned his hand to acting and directing with great aplomb.
A young girl is found murdered and the police are led to the reclusive Monsieur Hire (Blanc). Living a mundane existence his greatest pleasure is to watch Alice (Bonnaire) who lives in the opposite apartment. One night she catches sight of his pallid face at the window, illuminated momentarily by a flash of lightning. Her initial fear gives way to seemingly seductive intentions as they are drawn into each other”s lives.
Patrice Leconte’s highly acclaimed film is an enigmatic tale of love and obsession played with haunting subtlety.
With such films as The Hairdresser's Husband and The Girl On the Bridge, Leconte has built a reputation as one of the most respected and versatile French directors.
Title: Monsiur Hire
Release Date: 15 May 2006
RRP: £19.99
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THE GAME – SPECIAL EDITION DVD
“Extremely stylish”
The Times
Universal Pictures is delighted to announce the release of the Special Edition of David Fincher’s stylish psychological thriller The Game.
Available on DVD from 8 May 2006 this Special Edition DVD includes:
* Alternate ending
* Director’s Commentary
* 30 mins On Location Footage
* CGI Test Footage
Starring Michael Douglas (Wonder Boys, Falling Down) alongside Sean Penn (Mystic River, 21 Grams) and Deborah Kara Unger (Crash, White Noise).
Nicholas Van Orton (Douglas), a wealthy San Francisco investment banker, appears to have everything a man could desire - huge house, expensive clothes, executive car.
On his 48th birthday, however, his younger brother Conrad (Penn) buys him an invite to take part in an exclusive, elaborate live-action game - a game which soon turns into Van Orton’s worst nightmare. Thrown into a world where the line between reality and fiction is dangerously blurred Van Orton loses the one thing most important to him - his ability to be in control.
From the visionary director David Fincher (Fight Club, Se7en), The Game is a grippingly dark and imaginative thriller played out against a sinister backdrop of dim and dirty city streets.
“Clever and unsettling…those who dare to play will enjoy the intriguing ride.”
The Mirror
Title: The Game Special Edition Release Date: 8 May 2006
RRP (recommended retail price): £15.99
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