Tuesday, April 27, 2004

BRASIL 40°

SELFRIDGES TO SCREEN BRAZILIAN MASTERPIECES IN OWN CINEMA

In a daring and unprecedented move SELFRIDGES is augmenting its May celebration of all things Brazilian, BRASIL 40°, by building a cinema inside its Oxford Street store and staging a major Brazilian Contemporary Film Festival.

All the movies to be shown are full-length features in the original Portuguese with English subtitles, directed by some of South America’s most distinguished filmmakers. BRASIL 40° is a major cultural event set to run throughout May filling SELFRIDGES stores with the vibrancy and excitement of Brasil.

BIA LESSA, Award-winning director and Creative Adviser to BRASIL 40° explains ‘We have musicians, dancers, chefs, sportsmen, painters and writers coming...so of course we have to include cinema – it’s one of Brasil’s greatest achievements, and we’re thrilled to be doing it in such style.”

ISABEL DIEGUES is a respected producer in Brasil, daughter of Cacá Diegues, the film director. She has selected the 24 contemporary Brazilian films to be screened. Isabel has included the controversial film MADAME SATAN about the legendary bisexual cabaret star and criminal of the 1930s, set in the slums of Rio where desperate dreams spring from poverty and squalor.

Also to be shown is the Oscar-nominated film CITY OF GOD (‘Cidade de Deus’), directed by FERNANDO MEIRELLES and KATIA LUND. This highly-praised, box-office hit was adapted from author Paulo Lins’ harsh Brazilian slice -of-life novel and honoured not only by receiving four ACADEMY AWARD nominations but also sweeping the Cinema Brasil Grand Prix awards and the HAVANA FILM FESTIVAL. Fernando Meirelles will be answering questions following the screening on May 25th.

Among other titles to be screened at BRASIL 40°...

O XANGO DE BAKER STREET, an hilarious thriller in which Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson arrive in Rio in pursuit of a stolen violin but end up giving themselves over to the sensual delights of the city...

GOD IS BRAZILIAN (Deus e Brasileiro) in which the Almighty joins a tyre repairman to search for a new saint in Brazil so he can take a much-needed holiday...

THE DOG’S WILL (O Auto da Compadecida) three intertwined comic stories contrast 1930s Brazil with Europe in the Middle Ages...

ME YOU THEM (Eu Tu Eles) set in the arid landscape of Brazil’s North-East where a woman shares her modest home with three husbands...

COPACABANA, a lyrical comedy about remembering the delights of life in Copacabana at any age...

TAINAH, AN AMAZON ADVENTURE (Taina) A young girl and her grandfather combat animal smugglers in the jungle...

WINDOW OF THE SOUL (Janela da Alma) a moving documentary about blindness and sight, featuring Wim Wnders, Oliver Sacks and 17 others alternating between philosophy, humour and poetry...

THE OYSTER AND THE WIND (A Ostra e o Vento) a love story and fantasy set on a mysterious island ruled by the wind...

MIDNIGHT (O Primeiro Dia) a desperate love story set in Copacabana on December 31st 1999...

ORFEU is a love story and thrilling evocation of Carnival featuring the music of Caetano Veloso...

THE TRESPASSER (O Invasor) in which two businessmen hire the hitman from hell and let loose a level of violence they have no chance of controlling...

THE HAPPY CRICKET (O Grilo Feliz) A moral tale set in an insect village attacked by a bad lizard.

OTHER STORIES (Outras Historias) A parable in which a beautiful sorceress bewitches her boss...

TWO SUMMERS (Houve uma Vez dois Veroes) Teenage love angst on the beach, as boy meets girl and summer turns to winter...

THE THREE MARIAS (As Tres Marias) Three sisters are used as bait in a revenge thriller set in Pernambuco...

TICKETS priced at £3 can be booked by telephoning 08708 371 007, tickets will also be sold at the market place kiosk on the lower ground atrium. All proceeds will go towards SELFRIDGES’ charitable link with the ABC TRUST (ACTION FOR BRASIL’S CHILDREN TRUST) (www.abctrust.org.uk). THE ABC TRUST is dedicated to fighting for the rights of millions of impoverished children in Brasil, and to the generation of projects designed to empower them and transform their lives.

BRASIL 40° offers an explosion of Brazilian cultural energy never before seen in this country. SELFRIDGES invites all-comers to experience it as a vibrant tribute to Brasil and its society.

BRASIL 40° runs from May 5th - 31st 2004
www.selfridges.com/brasil

Titan Books is proud to present,

SHREK

For the first time in comics, here comes Shrek, the loveable ogre from the smash-hit animated movie!

The first Shrek movie released in 2002, was a runaway success, an unconventional fairytale which quickly won over audiences of both children and adults alike. Featuring the vocal talents of Mike Myers, Eddie Murphy and Cameron Diaz, Shrek was one of the smash-hit movies of the year, grossing over $267 million worldwide!

The eagerly awaited sequel is due for release this July and now you can enjoy even more Shrek with an all-new, all-action, all laughter series of adventures in his first graphic novel escapades!

Shrek, the shy but surly ogre, teams up with a loud, motor-mouthed donkey and, after a fairy tale romance, ends up married to the beautiful Princess Fiona. But the honeymoon is spoiled when Fiona is stolen by the evil (and dead) Lord Farquaad. And then there’s the business with the stone dragons, and the witch in the gingerbread house which, has gone stale like the biscuit down the back of the sofar...

Prepare for laugh-out-loud fun and action with these hilarious, original adventures of the world’s sweetest ogre!

Shrek 2, featuring all the original voice cast, hits cinemas in July 2004, with a major publicity campaign — sure to be a summer blockbuster!

Titan will be publishing a Shrek 2 tie-in magazine in June!

Titan Books - 25th June 2004 - £5.99 - Paperback
WWW.TITANBOOKS.COM
http://WWW.SHREK2.COM/
TIGER TELEMATICS AND TOYS 'R' US ANNOUNCE AGREEMENT FOR UK GIZMONDO DISTRIBUTION

Gizmondo Europe Ltd, previously named Gametrac Europe Ltd, subsidiary of Jacksonville, FL based Tiger Telematics Inc (TIGR) announced today that its much-anticipated mobile entertainment device, Gizmondo (previously named Gametrac), will be distributed in the UK first by Toys 'R' Us.

The Tiger Telematics' device, bearing the name Gizmondo, is best described as a multi-entertainer - a wireless, handheld device featuring cutting-edge gaming, an MP3 music player, movie player, multimedia messaging, in-built camera and GPS function, is scheduled to be released in the UK later this year.
Sandra Bullock Movie Wardrobe to Be Sold at Online Auction

A sweat top and dress Sandra Bullock wore in the film "Speed" (co-starring Keanu Reeves and Dennis Hopper) will go up for auction on April 27. The outfit is part of BondedSale.com's auction and has a starting bid of $2,499 with no reserve. The most recognizable costume from the hit movie "Speed", the set includes the highly distinctive Arizona "Wildcats" sweat top heavily referred to by both Dennis Hopper and Keanu Reeves. Also included is the light flowery dress that she wears. This is one of 4 sets used in the movie according to information from Fox Studios wardrobe. The set was obtained by a woman in Queensland, Australia. She and a friend won a radio contest on B105 Brisbane in 1995. The contest was called "A Day in the Life of Keanu Reeves" and coincided with the film's video release. The grand prize was an all-expense paid trip to Los Angeles and a personal tour of 20th-Century Fox Studios. During the tour, an employee from the wardrobe department presented her with several items that Keanu Reeves wore on the film set as well as the Sandra Bullock worn sweat top and dress. We purchased the set directly from the owner. All of this is detailed in a statutory declaration along with other documentation from the original owner. An 8x10 movie promo and original movie poster will be included with the set.

The BondedSale.com auction begins on April 27 and runs for 6 days. It is the world’s first bonded online-auction event. Every participating seller has passed a comprehensive background check by buySAFE and is bonded by The Hartford. Buyers are financially protected since every purchase is guaranteed up to $10,000.

Celebrity Autographs at Strickler's Sports will also sell several authentic autographed entertainment related items including a Paul McCartney autographed promo placard, a U2/Bono group signed album and a Dave Matthews autographed acoustic guitar.

Monday, April 26, 2004

UNPRECEDENTED MOTION PICTURE AND NETWORK TELEVISION EVENT

OSCAR NOMINATED FILMMAKER AND MODERN DAY MASTER OF SUSPENSE M. NIGHT SHYAMALAN HOSTS TWO NIGHTS OF PROGRAMMING ON ABC -- APRIL 26 & MAY 3

On APRIL 26 (8:00 – 11:00 p.m., ET) M. Night Shyamalan will host an ABC Network telecast of “The Sixth Sense,” during which he will present an exclusive, world premiere trailer of his next film, “The Village” – in theaters nationwide on July 30, 2004.

One week later, on MAY 3 (8:00-11:00 p.m., ET), Shyamalan hosts the ABC network television debut of “Unbreakable.” During the telecast Shyamalan will showcase never before seen material for “The Village,” including a groundbreaking 15 minutes of unique programming including a first look at scenes from the film, interviews, and behind-the-scenes access.

In M. Night Shyamalan’s “The Village,” the Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker assembles an all-star cast, including Academy Award®-nominees Joaquin Phoenix and Sigourney Weaver and Academy Award®-winners Adrien Brody and William Hurt. “The Village” tells the chilling tale of a close-knit community that lives with the frightening knowledge that creatures reside in the woods around them and the courage of one young man who challenges them. “The Village” will be in theaters nationwide on July 30, 2004.

“The Village” Official Website: http://thevillage.movies.com

Thursday, April 15, 2004

In Justice - 2004 Philadelphia Film Festival's Hot Topic

Though this year's 13th Annual Philadelphia Film Festival has proven to be quickly rising and gaining popularity with more movies and celebrity guest appearances, it also proves to still hold true to the words "independent film festival," as a new filmmaker, Alexander Ballas arrives on the scene with his knockout film debut.

Ballas, 26 year old native of Philadelphia wrote, produced and directed the 35mm feature film In Justice, a drama set in the Philly police department. In Justice is a dark story of Frank Miller who awakens to a city where he is the prime suspect in his wife’s murder and swears an oath to hunt down the three men that murdered Angela, to find the video tape they made the night of her death, and to confront the Fourth Man who led the conspiracy against him.

Not only do the film’s powerful still images draw people’s curiosity, but the buzz circulating about “a guy who made a 35mm feature in only two weeks on a crumb budget” is hitting the streets furiously and making Ballas a hero among fellow filmmakers.

"This film was (remarkably) made in less than two weeks, entirely through volunteer support from cast and crew. Yet its dark, gritty feel contains absolutely no evidence of production shortcomings. The director credits his cast and crew “who worked tirelessly, constantly" in completing this very effective tale of love, hate and human redemption.--Scott Johnston

Ballas' cinematography is truly stunning and one of the main attractions to this film. His dark and gritty street style coupled with a breath taking pivotal scene on a deserted beach at sunrise, gives this film otherworldly radiance and looming darkness. He overpoweringly deploys certain colors, most notably red or green consistently bathed in a pool of shadows. The brighter scenes glow with character Angela always in red, presenting a feeling of life, love and innocent bloodshed. Then death, danger, and hate are bathed in dark shadows with minimal light. The film begins switching and juxtaposing them creating underlying tension as it slips in between dreams, hope, life, and death.

The cast of In Justice is flawless as every single actor gives a supreme performance, creating unique and chilling characters. Surprisingly, most of the actors are relatively new discoveries by Ballas after intense casting sessions between New York and Philadelphia. The film is headed by the moving performances of Mike Tyler (Frank Miller) and April Evans (Angela Miller). April, a stunning Texas beauty, gives a lovely and subtle, yet effective performance as a young wife in love on the brink of a new life. Truly a find, she is well matched with the film's star Mike Tyler who's portrayal of Frank Miller is nothing short of exceptional. Other cast members include Ron Gordan, Jonathon Hemmingway, Karl Jacob, Markus Hinkle, Peter Salzer, and Troy Perrin.

Though rumored to be almost sold out, a remarkable occurrence for a first timer, you can still see In Justice at the festival Sunday, April 18th. There will also be an after party directly following the screening in which you can meet Ballas, the cast and crew.


In Justice
US 2004, 75 min
Showtimes:
International House Sunday, April 18 7:15 Tickets $9.00

For more information, please visit the film's website www.in-justice.com or the Philadelphia Film Festival website www.phillyfests.com
LifeLine Entertainment to Begin Principle Photography on its Second Feature-Length Motion Picture, “11:11.”

The long awaited follow-up project to LifeLine Entertainment’s acclaimed feature debut “Return to Innocence”, has finally been announced and is slated for production on May 01, 2004 in Orange County. “11:11” is a two-sided feature film that uniquely combines a coming-of-age tale with a hard-hitting crime drama, all within its 90-minute duration.

The film will be shot in two segments. ACT 1, with a 1985 summertime setting, will begin production in May, followed by a four-month hiatus, and then ACT 2 will start up in October. Reasons for the unique shooting schedule is that of the film’s writer/director, Rocky Costanzo. “The mood and setting of this film is very important to me.” Says Costanzo. “I want the audience to be heavily involved in the story as if they are living the experience through the characters on screen.”

Costanzo, 30, has literally grown up on film production sets, having worked on hit television shows as “The Wonder Years,” “Evening Shade,” “Party of Five,” among others. His 2001 feature film debut, “Return to Innocence”, launched his career as an independent film director and has helped to set up his sophomore film project (11:11) which is loosely based on his own Orange County upbringing. Also worth noting is Costanzo’s 1993 film short, “Straight Talk,” a documentary on troubled youths, which earned him a Community Access Producers Award for best educational film in 1993.

ACT 1 of “11:11” takes place in the summer of 1985 along the pacific shores of Huntington Beach, California… a popular beach community of Orange County. The focus of the story rests on the backs of two young boys enjoying their typical summer of innocence. The two leading roles have been confirmed and announced. 13 year-old Myles Jeffrey will portray Young Zachary Fishman, a young rebel in the making, constantly flirting with trouble.

Myles is already a veteran in the film/television industry. He has earned numerous film and substantial television credits along with awards for his efforts. He has appeared in Guest Staring roles for "ER" and "Popular", and as a special Guest Star on "Family Law" and “Touched By An Angel.” He is currently a series regular voice on the cartoon "Stuart Little" for HBO, "Recess" as T.J. on Disney and "Whatever Happened to Robot Jones" for Cartoon Network.

11 year-old Darian Weiss has won the role of Young Parker Matthews, a small and fragile boy who hangs on the coat tails of his buddy, Zach. Darian is no stranger to LifeLine Entertainment, having appeared in the above mentioned title, “Return to Innocence,” but Darian has since worked a year on the popular daytime television program, “Days of our Lives” and starred in a handful of short films and theater productions.

Also on board is actor, Noah Fleiss, who has signed on to play Zach’s older cousin Derek. Noah has certainly earned his acting stripes, from his breakout performance in the award-winning feature film “Joe the King,” and in other film festival favorites like “Double Parked” and “Todd Solondz’s Storytelling.” The addition of Noah to the film’s cast once again was the decision of the film’s director, Rocky Costanzo. “Noah is the perfect ingredient to an already great cast.” Costanzo explains. “Not only does he fit the character perfectly, he also brings with him experience that will hopefully contribute to the performances of our younger actors who share scenes with him.”

“11:11” will be in-and-out of production this year and will then be showcased in domestic and international film festivals throughout 2005. An official web site is in the works, but for now you can visit LifeLine Entertainment’s home on the web at www.LifeLineEntertainment.com for updated information regarding this film and other works.
“E-GIRL” Confidant Won't Tell All

Hollywood, CA (PRWEB) April 14, 2004 -- What happens when a resourceful 17-year-old wannabe screenwriter, working for the world’s largest internet service provider, obtains the screen names of Hollywood’s biggest celebrities and power brokers? In Hollywood, it means a film project based on the true story of Heather Robinson and her incredible escapade as an online confidant to the stars!

Robinson, who has already parlayed her adolescent charade as a pretend suitor for her lonely mom into Universal’s forthcoming film, “The Perfect Man” starring Hilary Duff, is at it again with “E-Girl”--her even zanier adventure as an internet intimate to some of Hollywood’s biggest names.

The full-fledged writer/producer maintains her prior cyber-subterfuge with major personalities and power players while a teenage customer service agent was neither malicious nor insincere and hardly worse than chumming up to movie stars at a private party or lifting a director’s cell phone number from an agency rolodex.

“Given the chance, what hopeful wouldn’t look up a few screen names if it meant they could meet their favorite player?” Heather reasons, “but I followed company rules and only contacted those who had an online profile or were in a chat room.”

Most celebrities had no clue at the time she knew who they really were, Robinson admits and that, of course, made her unorthodox approach so amenable to most.

“They were gracious, authentic and supportive,” Robinson says of nearly all of her idol encounters, “and what strange ‘proclivities’ a few may have exhibited will remain secret because most of them are close friends or colleagues now.”

Robinson vows “E-Girl” will only depict the clever, amazing and heartrending aspects of her online escapades and, who knows, perhaps some of her internet pals will appear in the film.

Friday, April 09, 2004

Japanese audiences stunned into silence by charity advert

In what is the first time that a non-governmental organisation has been able to show a cinema advert in Japan, thousands of cinema goers have been shocked into silence by a powerful new advert highlighting the misery of Japan's bear parks.

Made by NAGAI productions on behalf of the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA) and its Japanese member society All Life in a Viable Environment (ALIVE), the advert shows powerful scenes of the terrible conditions endured by bears in Japan's notorious bear parks. The commentary takes the form of a conversation between a mother and her son, with the child being told of the reason why bears kept together in small concrete pits show abnormal behaviour. Mr Nagai, a director of NAGAI productions who created the advert, described the reaction in Japan, "As soon as the advert started, everyone suddenly stopped talking and the theatre became very quiet. It seemed to capture everyone's attention, including even young children. That this advert has been allowed to be shown is a historical moment for NGOs and the advertising industry in Japan."

The advert is being shown before performances of Disney's 'Brother Bear' in two of the largest multiplex cinemas in Tokyo (Ikebukuro SunShine Movie Theater, from 20/3 to 2/4, and Kinshichou Cinema Movie Theater, from 27/3 to 9/4), as well as twice hourly for 12 hours a day throughout April on a large outdoor screen in the city centre. WSPA estimates that at least 50,000 people will get to see it during this time.

This is the latest move in a long running campaign by WSPA and ALIVE to close down Japan's eight bear parks. It follows the news earlier this year that at least one park (in Jyozankei) has announced that it is to close, with two others considering their future.

Victor Watkins, WSPA's Libearty Director, commented, "There is a growing movement to reject places like bear parks, where animals are kept in terrible conditions that are bad for their welfare. WSPA will continue to press for effective legislation in Japan to prevent the cruelty to animals that is clearly inherent in the bear park industry."

In response to growing concerns over the bear parks, Ed McAlister, President of the World Association of Zoos and Aquaria (WAZA), recently stated to WSPA, "We will not countenance welfare abuse in any form; this applies to practices outside zoos just as much as some which occasionally occur in organisations which masquerade under the name of zoos. If the money or the will to improve is not there we will move to have the 'zoo' closed down."
Titan Books Presents
Mythology – The DC Comics Art of Alex Ross

THE ULTIMATE BOOK FROM THE ULTIMATE COMICS ARTIST!

The best-loved comic characters in the world, Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, the JLA and many more, are all brought to life by the number one fan-favourite artist working in the medium today, the incomparable Alex Ross.

In this beautiful hardback edition you will enjoy the evolution of Ross’s work, from his early sketches aged three, to his contemporary masterpieces such as Batman: War on Crime and more recently his stunning Smallville covers which he designed exclusively for TV Guide.

This book reveals Ross’s lifelong love of these classic superheroes and his vision — taking you into the studio for a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, with hundreds of never-before seen sketches, limited edition prints, and prototype sculptures. Ross’s dynamic art combines with Chip Kidd’s kinetic design to make his most memorable stories soar off the page.

What was it about DC Comics super heroes that inspired Alex Ross as a child?
“As an adolescent you need order in your world, and super heroes have that, a sense of ethics that would never change – they would never be less than perfect, fighting for their ideals.” Alex Ross

* Alex Ross artwork will feature in the movie sequel Spider-Man 2

* National Comics Week is 24-30 May 2004

* Alex Ross is the number one fan-favourite artist working in comics today. This hotly anticipated book is the first collection of his work

* Features scores of rare and previously unpublished pieces

* Introduction by M. Night Shyamalan, acclaimed director (Signs; The Sixth Sense)

* Plus a new, exclusive Superman-Batman story, written by Kidd and painted by Ross!

“Iconic... Ross brings to his work an unparalleled sense of the real.”
— Entertainment Weekly ‘A’ grade review

“Alex’s art completely changed the way I thought of comics... amazing”
—Ain’t It Cool News


FROM: TITAN BOOKS
OUT: 21 MAY 2004
PRICED: £24.99
FORMAT: HARDBACK

Monday, April 05, 2004

‘RINGS’ ANIMATOR MAKING CUTTING EDGE 3D ANIMATION IN ENGLAND’S NORTHWEST

Manchester based production company The Box; have launched an exciting collaboration with talented and highly acclaimed Lord of the Rings animator Miles Bellas.

Miles, who is originally from Wigan, Greater Manchester, has just returned from New Zealand where he worked for over two years on the multi award winning movies. His other credits include Titanic, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and The Fifth Element. Miles will be working with The Box on a five minute 3D digitally animated character based DVD over the next twelve months.

North West Vision, the TV and Film agency for England’s Northwest are contributing £20,000 from its lottery funding towards the making of this short 3D film.

Alice Morrison, Chief Executive of North West Vision said:

“By supporting this innovative project we are helping to raise the UK’s 3D animation profile by reaching out to a whole new adult audience. North West Vision are committed to raising the profile and shaping the region’s film industry, spearheaded by the growing reputation of 3D animation in Manchester”

This witty 3D film (yet to be titled) will be unique and innovative and is aimed at an adult audience.
The making of the production will involve approximately 15 people. The Box hopes to develop and maintain strong links with North West educational establishments and training providers in the making of this short film.

Mike Kirwin, Director of the Box said:

“This is fantastic project and we are so thrilled to have established a partnership with Miles Bellas and funding support from North West Vision. Pre-production for our digital 3D animation will start very shortly and we hope to be completed by summer 2005.”

Thursday, April 01, 2004

New Archers Theme Tune

This morning Radio 4 reported that the long-running radio soap opera, The Archers, would be getting a new theme tune produced by Brian Eno. It sounded terrible, and it would be obvious that the ultra conservative listeners of this station would be on the war path. Even I was shocked by this earth-shattering change - then I remembered the date; April 1st.
The Spirit of Tinseltown

Tinseltown TV is the world's first weekly entertainment show to bridge the gap between Hollywood and Bollywood, taking mainstream Hollywood and celebrities to Asian audiences throughout the world.

Tinseltown Entertainment was founded in 2003 by London-born Sheeraz Hasan, who also hosts and produces the show. Sheeraz's story is a true rags to riches tale - from landing in LA eighteen months ago with no contacts or experience in the entertainment industry Sheeraz has become the host of a show that reaches an audience of 500 million around the world, half of Hollywood knows him by name, he has interviewed all the A-list Hollywood celebrities and has been labelled as the New American Dream by Fortune Magazine.

Sheeraz is a true entrepreneur, and his aim over the next year is to expand the Tinseltown brand even further to reach an audience of a billion viewers.

Tinseltown TV itself is not only unique in its reach, but also in its content. The show moves away from the traditional red carpet interviews to focus on the spiritual side of Hollywood, questioning celebrities on the role of spirituality in their lives and providing a unparalleled insight into how they stay focused and grounded - an approach which has earned it the reputation as the number one entertainment show in Hollywood amongst the Hollywood elite.

Friday, March 26, 2004

FACT witnesses an increase in counterfeit goods

Figures announced by the Federation Against Copyright Theft (FACT) highlight a massive increase of over 400% in the seizure of pirated films in 2003. This trend is by no means on the decline, over 250,000 pirated films have been seized since January 2004 – this batch includes counterfeit versions of Mel Gibson’s The Passion of The Christ which will be released in the UK on March 26th. This latest seizure represents a loss of over £1.25 million to the black economy.
Director of Operations Jim Angell said: "The fact that we have seized 50% more titles this year compared to the same period last year indicates that piracy is a booming trade. However, our figures only represent a small proportion of the counterfeit products entering the country. FACT can only make a difference if the entertainment industry unites in our fight to put these criminals out of business.

"There is a simple message for the general public: don't waste your money on substandard counterfeit goods. Not only will you be stifling the developing and expanding British film industry, but you will also be supporting the unsavoury and, quite frankly, terrifying activities of criminal gangs."

This message lies at the heart of a new hard hitting media campaign launched by FACT and is designed to educate members of the entertainment industry and the general public to help stamp out film piracy in the UK.

Jim Angell continues: "It is important that people realise the extent of intellectual property theft and the negative impact it has both on the industry and far beyond. We can only make a difference if industry members join us in our efforts to rid the UK of this hugely damaging black market."

The most popular titles seized by FACT in 2003 were Finding Nemo, Master and Commander, Pirates of The Caribbean, Kill Bill, Brother Bear, Calendar Girls and Love Actually.

Figures for 2003 seizures by FACT are as follows:
VCD 125,275
VHS 86,866
DVDR/ DVD Comp/ DVDR Comp 190,004
DVD 1,614,328
There Ain't No Wakeboarding In Iraq (WakinAMovie.com)

NY filmmaker Monroe Mann has been working for years to put together the world’s first wakeboarding feature film, to be shot in Orlando, Florida this fall. That is... until the Army stepped in and told him otherwise.

Despite all the obstacles of being an independent filmmaker, Monroe Mann has been able to line up Avril Lavigne & Sum41 for the soundtrack to their film and gain the support of the entire pro-wakeboarding community. Lieutenant Mann, however, also just got a call from his commanding officer. He and his battalion from the NY Army National Guard are packing their bags, leaving their civilian lives behind, and heading off to Iraq on May 15th.

Despite being confused and nervous about going to war, and despite the lack of funds and time, this Lieutenant filmmaker is still determined to fulfill his dream of making this movie.

"Among the many things I've learned by being in the Army,' says Mann, 26, "I've learned that impossible is not an option when success is the only alternative. Somehow, someway, we're going to make this movie."

How? By enlisting the support of the American people.

Mann and his crew at Loco Dawn Films have set up a website at www.WakinAMovie.com to help raise the money to make their film before he has to ship out to Iraq for war. They are hoping that people will actually go there, donate money, and help make movie history. The website is designed to appeal to wakeboarders, film buffs, those with military affiliations… and to anyone who has ever had a dream.

Wakeboarding is a cross between snowboarding and waterskiing and is the fastest growing extreme sport in the world. In the words of Jason Bingham of Wakeboarding Magazine, “Those who choose to be a part of this film, choose to be a part of a revolution in extreme sports.”

Monroe Mann (26) is a twice published author and the owner of the Unstoppable Actors Business School in Manhattan. His book "To Benning and Back - The Making of a Citizen Soldier" is the country's only first person journal account of modern basic training and officer candidate school.

Animated marketing for Alex Rider

Walker Books and Screenbase Media have joined forces to create the first animated "viral" promotion for a children's book. Scorpia Mission offers an interactive slice of the action, mystery and suspense from the fifth of Anthony Horowitz's Alex Rider books, Scorpia, on sale from 1 April 2004.

Next week, 250,000 children will be invited to watch the dramatic promo at
http://www.scorpiamission.com

Fans can discover what Scorpia is and the dark secrets about Alex Rider's father in an animated trailer. For those who cannot wait for the book, Scorpia Mission offers an exclusive extract of the first chapter, as well as details about Anthony Horowitz and further information about the Alex Rider series.

Walker Books approached Screenbase for this project, as their core-sector expertise lies in publishing, film and TV. They have developed and built author and title brands, including Douglas Coupland's Hey Nostradamus, Salam Pax's The Baghdad Blog and the Life of Pi promotion, which won an award at the 2003 Flash Forward Film Festival. Screenbase has worked with some of the largest media brands in the UK to provide a unique mix of creative and technical services that encompass marketing, graphic and web design. Previous clients include HarperCollins, Canongate Books, Edinburgh International Film Festival and Channel 4.

Anthony Horowitz, author of the Alex Rider series, said:

"I just love it. It really grips you from the start, and I particularly like the fact that it's so adult in nature - not at all condescending. I hope it entices a few kids away from their computers and into the books."

Alison Morrison, Head of Marketing at Walker Books, said:
"We are always looking for new and exciting ways to reach a wider audience in an environment that they respond to. Screenbase has produced a gripping trailer which will ignite anticipation among those who know the Alex Rider series, while establishing new readers as well!"

To preview the site visit Scorpia Mission at
http://www.scorpiamission.com

Thursday, March 04, 2004

Major Website Enhancement for JVC Professional Europe

JVC Professionals UK website: www.jvcpro.co.uk, has been upgraded and went live on 2 March 2004.

While JVC continually adds new features and content to its website, this is a major upgrade that cannot go unnoticed. The refreshing site displays a reorganised content page set to make the website a lot more user friendly and for information to be a lot easier to find.

The websites previous colours of red and mustard have been changed to blue and white making the visit to the site a considerably more enjoyable and more relaxing experience.

New features include:

· Latest products and news
· Flicker free Projection
· The Jerry Bruckheimer perfect theatre experience
· Speak to an Expert
· A dedicated security section
· A dedicated Computer Imaging area
· A dedicated Data Storage section
· A Meet us section

John Carpenter, General Manager Marketing Services, JVC Professional says, "The aim of the upgraded website is not only for aesthetic appeal but also to keep site visitors fully, and more clearly, informed. "
STAR WARS MAGAZINE
Issue #49

This month, Star Wars Magazine brings fans across the Star Wars universe interviews with The Phantom Menace star Ray Park (Darth Maul) and Star Wars make-up creator Stuart Freeborn. We study the new aliens introduced in Attack of the Clones, look into the world of invisible effects from The Phantom Menace and take you behind-the-scenes of the Star Wars animated micro series Clone Wars.

As always, SWM is packed with all the latest scoops – including an Episode III post-production update and exclusive new photos from the set, plus much, much more!
Don’t miss your free Darth Maul poster with this issue!

THE PHANTOM MENACE
Stuntman-turned-actor Ray Park, best known to Star Wars fans as Darth Maul, the demonic apprentice to Darth Sidious, chats to SWM about life before, during and after The Phantom Menace, plus he reveals the latest on his role as Danny Rand in the upcoming Marvel comic adaptation, Iron Fist.

ALIEN FACES
SWM talks to Star Wars make-up creator Stuart Freeborn to discover how he created the looks for some of the most famous faces in Star Wars: Episode IV, V & VI, including Chewbacca, Yoda and Jabba the Hutt.

THE ALIENS FROM ATTACK OF THE CLONES
Star Wars aliens have played on our affections, our fears and our imaginations for over a quarter of a century. SWM studies the new aliens introduced to the Star Wars universe in Attack of the Clones, including the giraffe-necked Kaminoans and the bug-like Geonosians.

INVISIBLE EFFECTS FROM THE PHANTOM MENACE
There’s a good argument that the most impressive effects are the ones not even the most keen-eyed viewers can detect. SWM looks into the world of invisible effects from The Phantom Menace.

MAKING THE CLONE WARS!
SWM visits the Cartoon Network headquarters to take you behind-the-scenes of the Star Wars animated micro series Clone Wars.

ALSO INCLUDED IN ISSUE #49
Rob Coleman: Behind the Magic
Set Piece: The Outlander Club
Comlink
Star Wars Q&A
Win Star Wars LEGO sets!
Plus, LOADS more!

GET IT DIRECT TO YOUR DOOR!
Subscribe to SWM by calling 0153 6764 646 or email: starwarssubs@titanemail.com, quoting reference P103.

ISSUE #49 ON SALE NOW!
ĂŁ Lucasfilm Ltd. All Rights Reserved.
dreamwatch

Issue #115

In Issue #115, the ultra glossy dreamwatch magazine brings you interviews with Alias actor Michael Vartan (Michael Vaughn), Stargate SG-1 stars Michael Shanks (Dr Daniel Jackson) & Christopher Judge (Teal’c), Hellboy star Ron Perlman (Hellboy), Angel star David Boreanaz (Angel) and series creator/executive producer Joss Whedon.

We visit the Scooby-Doo 2 set to meet the cast and crew; director Jonathan Hensleigh gives us a preview of the latest Marvel comic-strip movie; The Punisher; newly announced Doctor Who producer Phil Collinson outlines his plans for the show’s revival, and writer/executive producer Karl Schaefer reveals all on the upcoming third season of The Dead Zone.

As always, dreamwatch is packed with all the latest scoops from the world of sci-fi and fantasy entertainment – including news that Academy Award-winning actor Chris Cooper has turned down the role as Detective Jim Gordon in the new Batman film, Beyonce Knowles confirms her interest in the new Superman movie and the original Star Wars trilogy gets its DVD release date, plus much, much more!

ANGEL
When Buffy spin-off Angel made its television debut in October 1999, no-one really knew if it would be a hit. But the series quickly established itself and recently reached its 100th episode. Series creator/executive producer Joss Whedon chats to dreamwatch about the past, present and future of Angel.
David Boreanaz who is in his eighth year playing Angel, tells us about the revamped fifth season and his directorial debut on Angel episode “Soul Purpose”. Plus, a full report on the show’s shock cancellation!

ALIAS STAR MICHAEL VARTAN INTERROGATED!
With the third season of Alias making its UK debut in March, dreamwatch talks to Michael Vartan, who plays CIA agent Michael Vaughn, about the action-packed season and finds out about his real life relationship with the show’s star, Jennifer Garner.

SCOOBY-DOO 2: SET VISIT!
dreamwatch visits the set of Scooby-Doo 2: Monsters Unleashed and meets the cast and crew, including Sarah Michelle Gellar (Daphne), Matthew Lillard (Shaggy), Linda Cardellini (Velma) and director Raja Gosnell to find out what cinemagoers can expect from Scooby’s second live-action movie adventure.

STARGATE SG-1 : MICHAEL SHANKS & CHRISTOPHER JUDGE
Stargate SG-1 stars Michael Shanks (Dr Daniel Jackson) & Christopher Judge (Teal’c) reveal to dreamwatch how the new season is shaping up and what it’s like working with the newly promoted General Jack O’Neil.

HELLBOY
Mike Mignola’s popular comic-book saga Hellboy has been brought to the big screen with Ron Perlman in the title role. The prolific character actor tells dreamwatch about his long wait to play the demonic hero.

ALSO INCLUDED IN ISSUE #115
Head writer/executive producer David Greenwalt talks about the
cancellation of Jake 2.0
Star Trek: Enterprise’s Linda Blair (Hoshi Sato) outlines her characters development and reveals her thoughts on the character’s reduced screen time.
Battlestar Galactica’s Jamie Bamber (Captain Lee Adama) reveals what life is like aboard the re-imagined Galactica.
dreamwatch Hot Topic: Can Star Trek be saved?

PLUS: The very latest news, reviews and competitions

All this and much, much more in dreamwatch Issue#115!
ON SALE 26 FEB (UK) 16 MAR (US)

Get dreamwatch delivered to your door!
UK, call 01536 764646 or email dreamwatchsubs@titanemail.com.
US, call (1-877) 363-1310 or email expressmag@expressmag.com.
Please quote reference number P103.
Buffy issue#58

Well here it is, the one you’ve been begging, pleading and waiting for, the Spike issue! That’s right, we’re dedicating issue 58 of Buffy Magazine to the platinum enigma that was (in Buffy) and is (in Angel), Spike!

Printed in full Spike-o-rama, we have an interview with Spike actor James Marsters, a chance for you to test your Spike knowledge in our quiz and there’s a great Spike poster! The Glorious Clare Kramer joins us for a little Q&A as does Buffy Stuntwoman April Weedon-Washington, and we take a closer look at some of the Big Bads that Buffy has dealt with.

The Sunnydale Round-Up
In the Buffy news this month: Sarah Michelle Gellar’s decision on appearing in Angel, Alyson Hannigan makes her London West End debut in the stage version of When Harry Met Sally, and find out what the cast and crew are up to away from Sunnydale.

Marsters Class
From struggling New York actor, to founding two theatres and acting in over 70 plays, James Marsters has earned his stripes the hard way. We talk about life pre-Spike, resurrection on Angel and his current raison d’etre, his band, Ghost of the Robot.

Glory Hunter
Actress Clare Kramer tells us her feelings on body swapping and resurrecting Glory in Season Seven.

The Monster Hall of Fame
We take a season-by-season look at the many adversaries to have crossed Buffy’s path, taking in such luminaries as the follicly challenged Master in Season One, through Angelus, The Mayor, Dark Willow and finally, The First.

And there’s more…
Win a copy of the Best of Buffy DVD and a combination TV/DVD!
Meet Buffy stuntwoman and actress April Weedon-Washington!
‘Where are they now?’ – with Holden the Vampire (a.k.a. Jonathon Woodward)


Subscribe to Buffy and get the mag direct to your doorstep!
Subscribe to Buffy Magazine now and ensure that you never miss an issue of your fave mag by getting the magazine delivered directly to you! No more running down to the newsagents to grab your copy before they fly off the shelves! To subscribe, call 01536 764 646 or email buffysubs@titanemail.com quoting reference number P103.

Issue 58 of Buffy Magazine on sale 4 March!
Need an instant Buffy e-fix? To subscribe to the Buffy e-zine, simply send an email to: buffyezine@titanemail.com, writing ‘subscribe’ in the subject box.