Launch of a Life Time Achievement Award
We are proud to present the third edition of the Images of Black Women Film
Festival (IBW) which will take place at the Tricycle Cinema (London, Kilburn)
from the 2nd to the 4th of March 2007. The festival spans three inspirational days where amazing work by and about Black women will be showcased to increase knowledge of their role in cinema.
The most exciting feature of this year festival is the launch of a Life Time
Achievement Award, which this year is to be presented to Julie Dash, a prominent award-winning US film director. The Life Time Achievement Award includes the screening of the breathtaking “Daughters of the Dust”, Julie Dash’s cult film which has been placed in the National Film Registry by the US Library of Congress. The film is regarded by many as being one of the most important cinematic achievements in Black Cinema in the 20th century.
The ceremony will end with a Q & A’s session with the director.
“Following the success of the festival and from the audience’s feedback of the
first two IBW Film Festival, we have decided to take the 2007 Festival one step further by introducing a symbolic award. It is, the first of such award in the UK film industry, recognising that Black women need special attention in order to overcome many of the barriers that they encounter to enter and sustain a presence in the film industry” said Sylviane Rano, one of the founders of the IBW film festival.
In addition, the IBW 2007 programme has an amazing spread of exciting
innovations including the commemoration of the abolition of the British Slave
Trade Act and a special Caribbean category, with particular focus on the themes of cultural identity. This year’s event promises to be an inspiring celebration of black female talent with an exotic festival after-show party.
Amma Asante, IBW 2005 UK patron said: "IBW is a wonderful organisation
because it seeks to acknowledge, celebrate and inspire! I believe that the entire movie industry benefits when the contributing voices are diverse and rich. It makes sense that black women should be included."
Special events include the Emerging Filmmaker Award showcasing winners of the short film competition; a fantastic line up of animations, story telling and a 3D animated workshop with the Children’s Corner. There is an exclusive selection of UK premieres of both films and documentaries from the Black Diaspora, Q & A’s, seminars and workshops by black women directors.
IMAGES OF BLACK WOMEN FILM FESTIVAL 2007: PROGRAMME
March 2007 will mark the bicentenary of the abolition of the English Slave Trade Act, this subject has been handpicked to open the festival, and features “Daughters of the Dust”, a masterpiece with remarkable scenes that shows the connection between the West African and African-American cultural and spiritual experience. A further commemoration with Remember & Reflect, includes a short film “Legacy” by Inge Blackman (UK), where the effects of slavery on intimate relationships in Black families is carefully explored; followed by a feature “Shared History“ by Felicia Furman (US), here we will witness whether it is possible for a group of African American families (slaves descents) and a white family (slave owner descent) to have an open and honest dialogue on the realities of their relationship forged through slavery. Inge Blackman will take part in a Q & A’s sessions after screenings.
The special Caribbean category, Caribbean Cousins features two cinematic
pieces embracing the traditions, language, lifestyle and culture of two Caribbean islands, Trinidad “Joebell & America” and Martinique “French wedding Caribbean style aka Zouk Mariage et Ouélé”. French Caribbean director Julius Amédé Laou as well as main actress Brigitte Damiens will take part in a Q & A’s. Special Caribbean will close with a French Caribbean Zouk Party organised in partnership with MBMB, a French Caribbean Charity based in London.
UK premieres include “Antonia” the third in a trilogy dedicated to feminine
archetypes by Tata Amaral one of Brazil most awarded filmmaker. Antonia
follows Um Céu de Estrelas (A Sky of Stars) (1997) and Através da Janela
(Through the Window) (2000). Critics elected Um Céu de Estrelas, her first
feature length film, as one of the three most important Brazilian’s films in the
90’s. Further screenings includes the awards winning “Tanayaradzwa” by
Tawanda Gunda Mupengo for Best Cinematography and Best Upcoming Actress at the African Oscars (African Academy Movie Awards). “Tanayaradzwa” is produced by filmmaker Dorothy Meck, the first Zimbabwean feature film in six years.
For the 2nd consecutive year children will have a special place with the Children’s corner, an explosion of short animated films that include “The Spacefish” by Alexandros Konstantaras a juxtaposition of animation and live-action techniques.
The director is one of the co-winners of Images of Black Women Best
International Short Film Award 2006 for “Light in Shadow”. IBW cash prize
contributed to the production of ”The Spacefihs” his latest film. Children will also have a fun 3D animation workshop by award winning director Rachel Wang (Best Romantic Short Film Award at International Horror and Sci-Fi Film Festival, Phoenix AZ & Best International Short Film Award at Images of Black Women Film Festival for “Heyday”). The Children’s Corner will close with Grace Quanah’s (aka Akuba) African-centred storytelling performance. Julie Dash will present this year’s The Emerging Filmmaker Award, along with several prizes to be made to the short film competition winners.
WORKSHOPS & MASTERCLASSES: TRAINING FOR WOMEN FILMAKERS
The Images of Black Women (IBW) Film Festival will host two seminars conducted by established black women directors. Dami Akinnusi from Darkling TV, director of “Bleach my Skin White”, will share her triumphs and challenges of working behind the camera on Prime TV for ITV. Dami Akinnusi will also give a preview of her next film project to aspiring filmmakers.
There is a chance to join as part of a selected audience with Julie Dash, a
seminar, which will reveal the secret of her creativity.
Friday, February 23, 2007
Short films celebrating Yorkshire perspectives
Applications are now open for GLOBAL STORIES, a project for would-be film makers to help them launch a career in film and television.
GLOBAL STORIES is an Equal and Screen Yorkshire supported scheme run in partnership with the University of Bradford for new and emerging talent from groups currently under-represented in the film, broadcast and digital media industries in the Yorkshire and Humberside region.
Sally Joynson, Chief Executive at Screen Yorkshire comments: “Yorkshire has a wealth of unspent talent, often found hidden in communities that struggle to access the opportunities that the film industry can offer. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who may have no previous industry experience to break into filmmaking.”
The project is looking to select 14 individuals as writers, directors, producers, camera operators, sound recordists, editors and production coordinators, who will form two production teams to write, shoot and edit a short film in eight days. Participants will receive on the job training, the support of a professional mentor and guidance throughout the process.
Ali Rashid, Director of Innovation and Enterprise in the University of Bradford’s School of Informatics, who also runs the successful television company Real Life, said: “The scheme is designed to help people who are ready to get a foot on the ladder.
“The training and mentoring will be invaluable to people serious about getting into film or TV. The fact that we push people to start and finish a film in eight days forces people to just get on with it! There is no more waiting for the perfect sunset… you are not a film maker until you have made a film and this scheme gives people that chance.”
The project is specifically for people living in Yorkshire and the Humber region. Filming takes place in Bradford from the 26th May – 2nd June 2007. Participants will receive a training allowance and those from outside Bradford will be offered accommodation for the duration of the project. The two films will be up to five minutes long and will be screened at the National Media Museum in June this year.
The deadline for applications is the 30th of March. Application packs can be downloaded from www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/globalstories
Alternatively, request an application pack in writing to: Ben Pugh, Global Stories, School of Informatics, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford BD7 1DP.
GLOBAL STORIES is an Equal and Screen Yorkshire supported scheme run in partnership with the University of Bradford for new and emerging talent from groups currently under-represented in the film, broadcast and digital media industries in the Yorkshire and Humberside region.
Sally Joynson, Chief Executive at Screen Yorkshire comments: “Yorkshire has a wealth of unspent talent, often found hidden in communities that struggle to access the opportunities that the film industry can offer. This is a fantastic opportunity for individuals who may have no previous industry experience to break into filmmaking.”
The project is looking to select 14 individuals as writers, directors, producers, camera operators, sound recordists, editors and production coordinators, who will form two production teams to write, shoot and edit a short film in eight days. Participants will receive on the job training, the support of a professional mentor and guidance throughout the process.
Ali Rashid, Director of Innovation and Enterprise in the University of Bradford’s School of Informatics, who also runs the successful television company Real Life, said: “The scheme is designed to help people who are ready to get a foot on the ladder.
“The training and mentoring will be invaluable to people serious about getting into film or TV. The fact that we push people to start and finish a film in eight days forces people to just get on with it! There is no more waiting for the perfect sunset… you are not a film maker until you have made a film and this scheme gives people that chance.”
The project is specifically for people living in Yorkshire and the Humber region. Filming takes place in Bradford from the 26th May – 2nd June 2007. Participants will receive a training allowance and those from outside Bradford will be offered accommodation for the duration of the project. The two films will be up to five minutes long and will be screened at the National Media Museum in June this year.
The deadline for applications is the 30th of March. Application packs can be downloaded from www.screenyorkshire.co.uk/globalstories
Alternatively, request an application pack in writing to: Ben Pugh, Global Stories, School of Informatics, University of Bradford, Richmond Road, Bradford BD7 1DP.
Bradford International Film Festival
BENNETT, PARKINSON AND LOACH HEADLINE BRADFORD
Amazing Grace to open, This Is England to close
Bradford International Film Festival
9-24 March 2007
National Media Museum
www.bradfordfilmfestival.org.uk
Box Office: 0870 70 10 200
Alan Bennett, Michael Parkinson and Ken Loach have been added to the roster of guests at this year’s Bradford International Film Festival. Alan Bennett (Thursday 22 March) will discuss his screenwriting career and present the prestigious Kraszna-Krausz Book Award for the best book on photography, film and television of 2006. Michael Parkinson (Wednesday 14 March) will give us his recollections of some of the world’s greatest stars while Ken Loach (Monday 19 March) will talk about his career in movies as part of a rare retrospective of his work.
Wilberforce biopic Amazing Grace starring Ioan Gruffud will open on 9 March with Director Michael Apted in attendance while the Festival will close on 24 March with a special screening of Shane Meadow’s latest This Is England.
Other confirmed guests with seasons in the Festival include: Terence Davies (Distant Voices, Still Lives) (Sunday 11 March), Patrick Keiller (Robinson in Space) (Tuesday 13 March), Denis Dercourt (The Pageturner) (Friday 16 March), veteran producer Euan Lloyd (Shalako) (Sunday 18 March), Jamil Dehlavi (Jinnah, Infinite Justice) (Tuesday 20 March) and Godfrey Reggio (Naqoyqatsi, Anima Mundi) (Thursday 22 March)
A new strand for the Festival - Uncharted States of America - brings the radical edge of American independent cinema to the UK, including an ultra rare screening of the near-legendary Dangerous Men, which we hope will be introduced by the mysterious director John S. Rad (Saturday 24 March). Meanwhile, the 3rd Film and Music conference will welcome Bond composer David Arnold (Thursday 15 March). The CineFile strand of documentaries on film includes exclusive screenings of Edge of Outside and Directed by John Ford from TCM and Anger Me in which Kenneth Anger looks back on his life and career.
Widescreen Weekend (15-19 March) returns to make the most of the National Media Museum’s projection capabilities with Burton and Taylor in Cleopatra, Omar Sharif in Mayerling while Goldfinger, 12 Angry Men and South Pacific get their UK premieres as digital prints from Pictureville’s latest projector.
Amazing Grace to open, This Is England to close
Bradford International Film Festival
9-24 March 2007
National Media Museum
www.bradfordfilmfestival.org.uk
Box Office: 0870 70 10 200
Alan Bennett, Michael Parkinson and Ken Loach have been added to the roster of guests at this year’s Bradford International Film Festival. Alan Bennett (Thursday 22 March) will discuss his screenwriting career and present the prestigious Kraszna-Krausz Book Award for the best book on photography, film and television of 2006. Michael Parkinson (Wednesday 14 March) will give us his recollections of some of the world’s greatest stars while Ken Loach (Monday 19 March) will talk about his career in movies as part of a rare retrospective of his work.
Wilberforce biopic Amazing Grace starring Ioan Gruffud will open on 9 March with Director Michael Apted in attendance while the Festival will close on 24 March with a special screening of Shane Meadow’s latest This Is England.
Other confirmed guests with seasons in the Festival include: Terence Davies (Distant Voices, Still Lives) (Sunday 11 March), Patrick Keiller (Robinson in Space) (Tuesday 13 March), Denis Dercourt (The Pageturner) (Friday 16 March), veteran producer Euan Lloyd (Shalako) (Sunday 18 March), Jamil Dehlavi (Jinnah, Infinite Justice) (Tuesday 20 March) and Godfrey Reggio (Naqoyqatsi, Anima Mundi) (Thursday 22 March)
A new strand for the Festival - Uncharted States of America - brings the radical edge of American independent cinema to the UK, including an ultra rare screening of the near-legendary Dangerous Men, which we hope will be introduced by the mysterious director John S. Rad (Saturday 24 March). Meanwhile, the 3rd Film and Music conference will welcome Bond composer David Arnold (Thursday 15 March). The CineFile strand of documentaries on film includes exclusive screenings of Edge of Outside and Directed by John Ford from TCM and Anger Me in which Kenneth Anger looks back on his life and career.
Widescreen Weekend (15-19 March) returns to make the most of the National Media Museum’s projection capabilities with Burton and Taylor in Cleopatra, Omar Sharif in Mayerling while Goldfinger, 12 Angry Men and South Pacific get their UK premieres as digital prints from Pictureville’s latest projector.
The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan
New DVD Release –
The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan
February 2007 – DVD out now: Internationally acclaimed Seventh Art Productions have released the multiple award-winning documentary The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan. This astonishing emotive documentary ventures into the life and hearts of an Afghan family. Filmed and directed by ground-breaking film director Phil Grabsky, this unique exploration follows eight-year-old refugee Mir Hussain and his family who, due to the violent destruction caused by the Taliban in 2001, are forced to live in the caves that once formed the beautiful ‘Buddhas of Bamiyan’. Powerful and surprising, this production is essential viewing for those with an interest in the political struggles of this mysterious culture or anybody concerned with the impact of war on a community. The DVD is available to buy now on amazon.com and seventh-art.com.
This beautifully shot feature length documentary is an account of the lives of the main character Mir and his family living in the caves of the Buddhas of Bamiyan. Described by Empire as a “poignant documentary…extraordinary”, the intimate access that this resilient family permitted Grabsky, allows us to get a real sense of what Mir’s existence is like. We see the family’s struggles for food, crippling ill health, and their frustrations when searching for work in the barren local economy. However, we also cannot escape Mir’s unstoppable energy, inquisitiveness and innocence as he bounds among his ruined playground and happily crunches apples in the orchard of the local militia.
Originally broadcast on Five, the breathtaking cinematography has meant this latest release from Seventh Art has been received with much acclaim. It has won awards from the Chicago Television Awards, the Valladolid International Film Festival, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and the Royal Television Society to name but a few. The DVD is available RRP £19.99 at seventh-art.com, amazon.com, moviemail-online.co.uk and theboywhoplaysonthebuddhasofbamiyan.com.
The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan is a sensitive piece that both highlights the Hussain family’s post-Taliban tribulations, yet extols their strong characters and irrepressible community spirit. In the words of the director “The similarities between people of different nations far exceed the differences. Too often I fear people forget this.
The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan
February 2007 – DVD out now: Internationally acclaimed Seventh Art Productions have released the multiple award-winning documentary The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan. This astonishing emotive documentary ventures into the life and hearts of an Afghan family. Filmed and directed by ground-breaking film director Phil Grabsky, this unique exploration follows eight-year-old refugee Mir Hussain and his family who, due to the violent destruction caused by the Taliban in 2001, are forced to live in the caves that once formed the beautiful ‘Buddhas of Bamiyan’. Powerful and surprising, this production is essential viewing for those with an interest in the political struggles of this mysterious culture or anybody concerned with the impact of war on a community. The DVD is available to buy now on amazon.com and seventh-art.com.
This beautifully shot feature length documentary is an account of the lives of the main character Mir and his family living in the caves of the Buddhas of Bamiyan. Described by Empire as a “poignant documentary…extraordinary”, the intimate access that this resilient family permitted Grabsky, allows us to get a real sense of what Mir’s existence is like. We see the family’s struggles for food, crippling ill health, and their frustrations when searching for work in the barren local economy. However, we also cannot escape Mir’s unstoppable energy, inquisitiveness and innocence as he bounds among his ruined playground and happily crunches apples in the orchard of the local militia.
Originally broadcast on Five, the breathtaking cinematography has meant this latest release from Seventh Art has been received with much acclaim. It has won awards from the Chicago Television Awards, the Valladolid International Film Festival, the Santa Barbara International Film Festival and the Royal Television Society to name but a few. The DVD is available RRP £19.99 at seventh-art.com, amazon.com, moviemail-online.co.uk and theboywhoplaysonthebuddhasofbamiyan.com.
The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan is a sensitive piece that both highlights the Hussain family’s post-Taliban tribulations, yet extols their strong characters and irrepressible community spirit. In the words of the director “The similarities between people of different nations far exceed the differences. Too often I fear people forget this.
Monday, February 19, 2007
Are you the next Scorsese or Spielberg?
Calling all amateur film makers...
See your film premiered online and win a postproduction session of your movie at the globally renowned Pinewood Studios Group
19 February 2007: Cinema 2020 - The Future Vision of Cinema is a nationwide competition aimed at up and coming film producers from universities and societies around the UK. Hosted by Vividas, the streaming video people, in conjunction with Pinewood Studios, the home of world-class film, television and commercial production and postproduction facilities, the competition aims to find the film production talent of tomorrow - today!
The internet continues to shape the way in which content is produced, distributed and viewed. This competition invites student and amateur filmmakers to submit a short film of 20 minutes or less. A panel of influential figures from the film and broadcast industry, including Radio 4's Front Row presenter, Mark Lawson, will judge the contest.
Win your own premiere!
The winning clip will be specially encoded for internet distribution by Vividas, the first streaming video company to premiere a film online. The winning entry will be available on a pay per view portal at www.vividas.com/cinema2020 for six months. Vividas' portal is a great platform for easy to access global viewing in full screen, high definition mode. All profits made from the film's online sales will go back to the film's producer for use on future projects.
The lucky winner will be invited to an exclusive postproduction session with the Pinewood Studios Group. This globally renowned facility, and its highly skilled team, create stunning sound and visual finishes on big name films, including Miss Potter and Black Book.
And if that's not enough, there are also two tickets to a forthcoming Paramount / Dreamworks premier, an opportunity to practice walking down the red carpet!
Star panel to judge entries
This is a prime opportunity for aspiring film producers to make their mark on influential figures within the industry. As well as Mark Lawson, judges include Bruce Everett of the Pinewood Studios Group, representatives from Paramount Pictures and The National Film School.
The lucky winner will also receive a tour of either Pinewood or Shepperton Studios both huge studio sites which are used to film many commercials, music videos, TV series and films. The studios have 35 sound stages, all located within easy reach of central London.
The competition opens on February 19th and will run until May 31st. It is open to all students attending film and film studies courses in the UK.
So what are you waiting for? Visit www.vividas.com/cinema2020 to download an information pack and entry terms and conditions.
See your film premiered online and win a postproduction session of your movie at the globally renowned Pinewood Studios Group
19 February 2007: Cinema 2020 - The Future Vision of Cinema is a nationwide competition aimed at up and coming film producers from universities and societies around the UK. Hosted by Vividas, the streaming video people, in conjunction with Pinewood Studios, the home of world-class film, television and commercial production and postproduction facilities, the competition aims to find the film production talent of tomorrow - today!
The internet continues to shape the way in which content is produced, distributed and viewed. This competition invites student and amateur filmmakers to submit a short film of 20 minutes or less. A panel of influential figures from the film and broadcast industry, including Radio 4's Front Row presenter, Mark Lawson, will judge the contest.
Win your own premiere!
The winning clip will be specially encoded for internet distribution by Vividas, the first streaming video company to premiere a film online. The winning entry will be available on a pay per view portal at www.vividas.com/cinema2020 for six months. Vividas' portal is a great platform for easy to access global viewing in full screen, high definition mode. All profits made from the film's online sales will go back to the film's producer for use on future projects.
The lucky winner will be invited to an exclusive postproduction session with the Pinewood Studios Group. This globally renowned facility, and its highly skilled team, create stunning sound and visual finishes on big name films, including Miss Potter and Black Book.
And if that's not enough, there are also two tickets to a forthcoming Paramount / Dreamworks premier, an opportunity to practice walking down the red carpet!
Star panel to judge entries
This is a prime opportunity for aspiring film producers to make their mark on influential figures within the industry. As well as Mark Lawson, judges include Bruce Everett of the Pinewood Studios Group, representatives from Paramount Pictures and The National Film School.
The lucky winner will also receive a tour of either Pinewood or Shepperton Studios both huge studio sites which are used to film many commercials, music videos, TV series and films. The studios have 35 sound stages, all located within easy reach of central London.
The competition opens on February 19th and will run until May 31st. It is open to all students attending film and film studies courses in the UK.
So what are you waiting for? Visit www.vividas.com/cinema2020 to download an information pack and entry terms and conditions.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Decide Fate of Hollywood Movie
LIONSGATE AND HABBO TEAM UP TO LET MILLIONS OF TEENS DECIDE THE FATE OF A HOLLYWOOD MOVIE
Innovative Step in New Media Will Allow Habbo Users Worldwide To Determine The Viability Of An Animated Feature Film Based On The Habbo Virtual World Taking Place Online January 2007
SANTA MONICA, CA/LOS ANGELES, CA (January 17, 2007) – Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), the leading independent filmed entertainment studio, goes viral this January as the company, identifying the next step in new media opportunities, has partnered with HABBO, one of the world’s largest online communities for teenagers, to allow today’s teens to determine the fate of a Habbo animated release. Utilizing this interactive technology, Lionsgate will tap directly into the online community for feedback on a potential filmmaking endeavor with Habbo. Starting on January 15, “Habbos” will be able to view ten very different animated shorts based on the Habbo World, which will be posted on Habbo.com and local Habbo sites around the world and voted on by the millions of registered users of these sites. The animated shorts were created in a variety of styles – from CGI to flash to 2-D animation by renowned animation houses from around the world. The “Habbos” will have the option to vote on whether or not Lionsgate should produce and distribute a longer feature film for the DVD and online marketplace based on their feedback on the animated shorts.These ten “Habbo”-sodes will be available for 14 days, where registered users will be invited into the venue to screen the shorts and vote “HABBO movie or not!” Based on the resulting vote, Lionsgate and Habbo will determine whether to green light a full-length film, even using this input to determine the genre and animation style of the movie. The resulting film would be released both on DVD and online, distributed by Lionsgate.
“Lionsgate has established itself as a true leader in the distribution of family entertainment and innovative marketing. Through this unique partnership with HABBO, we are going directly to the online community and putting the power in their hands by allowing them to determine what movie they want to see,” said Michael Rathauser, Vice President of Marketing, Lionsgate. “This partnership with Habbo will also provide us with valuable information and the opportunity to explore new and different targeted electronic distribution platforms for content that resonates within a very defined audience. It’s an exciting new world of opportunity.”
“We’re proud to announce our partnership with Lionsgate. We were previously approached from several major studios. However, Lionsgate stands out as an expert in the teen film market and they share Sulake’s commitment to quality, innovation and fun,” said Teemu Huuhtanen, President, North America, Sulake Corporation.
“Habbo-sodes were submitted by key animation studios located around the world and we appreciate the immense talent contributed to this project. The opportunity to now position Habbo as a leading distribution and promotional channel of all digital content from video to music is tremendous. Furthermore, by integrating our millions of Habbo users into this project, we will be spearheading a new kind of user-generated content as we empower them with the ability to determine the future of this animated film,” he added.
This partnership between Lionsgate and HABBO marks the second time the two companies have collaborated to create a unique online experience for consumers. In July 2006, HABBO.com hosted a virtual red-carpet premiere event for Ultimate Avengers 2, the highly-successful direct-to-DVD Marvel Animated Feature. Tens of thousands of Habbos attended the screening, which was the first time the online community was able to view 10 full minutes of a never-before-seen film prior to its release.
The animations can be seen at www.habbo.com/community
Screen East Online Search Engine Launched
Screen East, the Regional Screen Agency for the East of England, is delighted to launch their new improved online search engines designed to source filming locations or locally based crew and facilities companies. Over 4,800 locations, crew and facilities in the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk can now be accessed online from anywhere in the world, anytime.
Screen East promotes the East of England as the ideal location for film and television production. This valuable resource has been created to showcase the huge variety of diverse and unique locations, skills and services available in the region. It means that film and television production companies will now have instant access to thousands of location photographs and crew and facility contacts to plan and support their shoot. Kerry Ixer, Head of Locations said: “We are thrilled with the new search engines as we can now serve the filming industry’s needs at a time of day that is convenient to them wherever they are in the world.”
The economic impact of the film and creative industries is vast. In 2005/06 an estimated £25.7 million was spent on location filming in the region with the bulk of spend going to location owners, local suppliers, accommodation providers and the local workforce. Location filming therefore provides a valuable stimulus to the local economy and the enhancement of Screen East’s online searches will assist those registered with us to financially benefit from filming activity. If based in the East of England, the entire service is free of charge for anyone to register their property, freelance skills or services with Screen East.
Productions to have shot in the region have included the biggest names in film including James Bond, Star Wars, Batman Begins, Saving Private Ryan, and the
biggest production in the UK at present, Harry Potter. There are on average six production crews shooting on location in the East of England every day.
LEGACY - A PERSONAL HISTORY OF BARRY SHEENE
Documentary DVD on a Sporting Icon from EMI
"The coolest motorcycle rider in the story." Valentino Rossi
"A truly great person and personality…..Above all his personality allied to his success and the way he achieved it made him someone who was truly unforgettable."
Murray Walker
"He was just a cheeky bugger." Stephanie Sheene
A hero and inspiration to millions, Barry Sheene has a particularly unique place in the hearts of bike and sports fans the world over. Born in London in 1950, Sheene rose to fame in the 1970s for his sporting prowess, and blessed with good looks and buckets of charisma he became an inspiration to many. Breaking numerous bones and winning countless hearts along the way, he reached the pinnacle of the motor biking world, becoming a celebrity in his own right and endearing himself to the wider public. These achievements together with his personality have left an unrivalled legacy for future sporting generations. Double Jab Productions & EMI Music have produced the definitive documentary of his life and his legacy, which encompasses his childhood, to the heights of his success in the 70s, through to his untimely death in 2003 and looks at what enchanted so many people including the media. Narrated by actor and bike fan Ewan McGregor, LEGACY - A PERSONAL HISTORY OF BARRY SHEENE is a two disc DVD that features unseen footage and extras. Made with the full cooperation of his widow Stephanie Sheene, the DVD features contributions and interviews from family , friends and fellow motorsport legends such as Murray Walker, Sir Henry Cooper, Damon Hill, Valentino Rossi, Carl Fogarty, Mick Doohan and many more. LEGACY - A PERSONAL HISTORY OF BARRY SHEENE will be released in March.
LEGACY - A PERSONAL HISTORY OF BARRY SHEENE offers an intimate and frank look at the life of Sheene as a sportsman as well as the individual, putting together never before seen archive and home movie footage along with in-depth interviews with those who loved, admired and were inspired by Sheene. The DVD looks at how Sheene first became fixated with motorbikes and racing, his first race in 1969 and how in 1970 he really came into his own. Sheene rocketed to fame, winning back to back 500cc World Championships in 1976 and 1977 on his Suzuki bike, and dominated 500cc racing throughout the world for the most of the decade. The 70s was an era when safety standards were still pretty lax in the sport and the risks associated became all too apparent during his career, as Sheene was blighted with serious crashes and injuries - at one stage, he had metal plates in both knees, 28 screws in his legs and a bolt in his left wrist. A serious crash in Daytona, Florida, left him in hospital, but Sheene ever the professional still conducted interviews from his bedside. The DVD also explores Sheene's life away from the racing track, which gripped the public in equal measure and added to his persona.
Sheene enjoyed all the glamorous and lucrative fruits of his labour, and he successfully went on to establish himself as one of the UK's best loved sporting icons of his time. His popularity was in part down to his flamboyant personality and Sheen lapped up all the trappings of the good life that his success brought him; fast cars, big houses and the attention of the opposite sex. A canny operator, Sheene was aware of his marketability, and took advantage of the endorsement deals that were beginning to open up for sportsmen, including a deal with Brut, Texaco, and Faberge, Sheene's position as a household name was solidified. Once he married Stephanie McLean, a former page three girl, they became known as 'Barry and Steph' in the media, one of the most glamorous couples of the late 70s. During the 1982 British Grand Prix, Sheene suffered massive injuries from which he never truly recovered his form. Sheene eventually retired from racing in 1984, and the DVD goes on to look at Sheene's forging of a new life and career in Australia. Racing commentator, Murray Walker, knew Sheene from his childhood years, becoming a close friend and was witness to the highs as well as the lows. Together with contributions from his family and friends, these at times candid interviews, paint a rich picture of the man both on and off the race track.
“LEGACY - A PERSONAL HISTORY OF BARRY SHEENE” is made by Double Jab Productions for EMI DVD, it is produced & directed by Mark Tinkler, Executive Producer Stuart Watts.
Disc one contains the main film and extras while disc two is entirely composed of extras including extended interviews, extended home movie sequences, photo galleries and much more.
Interviews have been conducted with the following for the making of the film: Stephanie Sheene (widow), Sidonie Sheene (daughter) Freddie Sheene (son), Maggie Smart (sister), Paul Smart (brother-in-law and fellow Suzuki team rider), Murray Walker, Damon Hill, Valentino Rossi, Steve Parrish, Kenny Roberts, Mick Doohan, Carl Fogarty, Sir Henry Cooper and many many more.
Disc 2 Extras include:
Additional home movie footage, previously unseen archive material and extended interviews with the likes of Valentino Rossi, Carl Fogarty, Mick Doohan, Murray Walker, Damon Hill and many more.
Home Movies
· “Barry as a boy” commentary by Barry sister's, Maggie - watching her father's early home movies, footage never seen outside of the family before.
· “Early Racing Days” commentary by Paul & Maggie Smart, and Murray Walker & Damon Hill - watch and talk about the home movies of Sheene's early racing career from the mid-1960s to 1971,
· “The Glory Years” commentary with Andrew Marriott, Martyn Ogbourne, Peter Agg & Steve Parrish - including home movies shot by Sheene's father at Grand Prixs in 1976 & '77
Extended Interviews:
· Barry in Three words
· Barry & Steph
· Barry & Brut
· Four World Champions on Barry
Interviewees featured in “Extended Interviews” include Carl Fogarty, Mick Doohan, Kenny Roberts, Valentino Rossi, Damon Hill, Murray Walker, Sir Henry Cooper, Steve Parrish, Andrew Marriott, Maggie Smart and Barry's family of wife Stephanie and children Sidonie & Freddie.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Black Orpheus on DVD
Marcel Camus’ multi award winning film Black Orpheus made a huge impact on its original release, garnering top accolades, an Oscar, Golden Globe and Palme D’Or and putting bossa nova on the map.
This visually stunning film, based on Vinícius de Moraes musical play Orfeu da Conceição, retells the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice against the vibrant backdrop of the Rio carnival.
The outstanding soundtrack from Latin Jazz legend Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luiz Bonfa introduced the world to a new style of samba, later known as bossa nova, that was fresh, romantic and accessible to jazz hipsters.
This fantastic new transfer, featuring the extended version of the film, does full justice to the glorious colour photography and will be released for the first time on DVD courtesy of Second Sight on 19 March 2007.
“More than just showcasing samba, Black Orpheus brought this music to life, making Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luis Bonfa international stars. From the very opening title scene, where favalistas burst through an ancient frieze of Orpheus and Eurydice, to the climactic Carnival parade, music pervades practically every moment of the film”. rootsworld.com
Title: Black Orpheus
Release Date: 19 March 2007
RRP: £19.99
This visually stunning film, based on Vinícius de Moraes musical play Orfeu da Conceição, retells the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice against the vibrant backdrop of the Rio carnival.
The outstanding soundtrack from Latin Jazz legend Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luiz Bonfa introduced the world to a new style of samba, later known as bossa nova, that was fresh, romantic and accessible to jazz hipsters.
This fantastic new transfer, featuring the extended version of the film, does full justice to the glorious colour photography and will be released for the first time on DVD courtesy of Second Sight on 19 March 2007.
“More than just showcasing samba, Black Orpheus brought this music to life, making Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luis Bonfa international stars. From the very opening title scene, where favalistas burst through an ancient frieze of Orpheus and Eurydice, to the climactic Carnival parade, music pervades practically every moment of the film”. rootsworld.com
Title: Black Orpheus
Release Date: 19 March 2007
RRP: £19.99
South Bank Show Awards
On Tuesday 23rd January 2007, Melvyn Bragg will be hosting the 11th annual SOUTH BANK SHOW AWARDS at the Savoy Hotel, honouring the UK’s most creative and popular artists in front of a star-studded audience. This year's event will see the return of The South Bank Show Awards/The Times Breakthrough Award which recognises rising British talent. Together with The Times critics, THE SOUTH BANK SHOW AWARDS have short listed one breakthrough nominee for each of the ten award categories. The winner will be chosen by a public vote organised through The Times, to be announced on the day of the awards. This year’s nominees include Connie Fisher for Theatre, Rafi Gavron for Film, David Oyelowo for TV Drama, Simon Amstell for Comedy and Archie Bronson Outfit for Pop.
THE SOUTH BANK SHOW AWARDS, originated by series editor and presenter Melvyn Bragg, are unique in that they span the whole range of arts in Britain. There are ten categories: Theatre, Film, Dance, Classical Music, Pop Music, Opera, Literature, Comedy, Visual Arts and TV Drama, as well as The Arts Council England – decibel Award and Outstanding Achievement in the Arts. The South Bank Show Awards/The Times Breakthrough Award was introduced in 2005 with the likes of Razorlight and James McAvoy nominated. The film director Amma Asante was voted the eventual winner and went on to scoop a BAFTA for her debut film, ‘A Way of Life’. The 2006 awards saw a new crop of rising stars battling it out for the Breakthrough Award including the director Joe Wright and rapper M.I.A.. Billie Piper, riding on the back of her success in the new ‘Doctor Who’ series, was crowned the winner on the day.
Melvyn Bragg on the nominations; “The South Bank Show Awards/The Times Breakthrough Award has been a terrific success. The awards go to British artists across the spectrum who have achieved great things in the year. This award brings to a wide public the best of new young talent in the country many of whom, young as they are, are already out there making what could well be great and deserved reputations.”
This year’s nominations reflect the wealth of talent across the arts that have come to the fore over the last year. David Oyelowo starred in the controversial BBC Two drama ‘Shoot the Messenger’; Rafi Gavron was singled out by critics for his role in the film ‘Breaking and Entering’; Connie Fisher stormed to victory in BBC One’s ‘How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?’ and went on to critical acclaim in ‘The Sound of Music’; Archie Bronson Outfit, a 3-piece group from Wiltshire made an impact with their album ‘Derdang Derdang’; TV presenter and former host of ‘Popworld’ (C4) Simon Amstell, returned to his comedy roots in 2006 with a successful debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and as the new host of ‘Never Mind The Buzzcocks’ (BBC Two); and Scottish author Jane Harris made a stunning debut with her novel ‘The Observations’.
Alex O’Connell, Arts Editor of The Times adds; “This year's nominees are a cultural bumper crop and The Times is delighted to be associated with an award which champions the rising stars of arts and entertainment."
THE SOUTH BANK SHOW AWARDS will be transmitted on Sunday 28th January 2007 on ITV1. The full list of nominations for all ten main categories plus the Arts Council England - decibel award will be announced in early January.
THE SOUTH BANK SHOW AWARDS, originated by series editor and presenter Melvyn Bragg, are unique in that they span the whole range of arts in Britain. There are ten categories: Theatre, Film, Dance, Classical Music, Pop Music, Opera, Literature, Comedy, Visual Arts and TV Drama, as well as The Arts Council England – decibel Award and Outstanding Achievement in the Arts. The South Bank Show Awards/The Times Breakthrough Award was introduced in 2005 with the likes of Razorlight and James McAvoy nominated. The film director Amma Asante was voted the eventual winner and went on to scoop a BAFTA for her debut film, ‘A Way of Life’. The 2006 awards saw a new crop of rising stars battling it out for the Breakthrough Award including the director Joe Wright and rapper M.I.A.. Billie Piper, riding on the back of her success in the new ‘Doctor Who’ series, was crowned the winner on the day.
Melvyn Bragg on the nominations; “The South Bank Show Awards/The Times Breakthrough Award has been a terrific success. The awards go to British artists across the spectrum who have achieved great things in the year. This award brings to a wide public the best of new young talent in the country many of whom, young as they are, are already out there making what could well be great and deserved reputations.”
This year’s nominations reflect the wealth of talent across the arts that have come to the fore over the last year. David Oyelowo starred in the controversial BBC Two drama ‘Shoot the Messenger’; Rafi Gavron was singled out by critics for his role in the film ‘Breaking and Entering’; Connie Fisher stormed to victory in BBC One’s ‘How Do You Solve A Problem Like Maria?’ and went on to critical acclaim in ‘The Sound of Music’; Archie Bronson Outfit, a 3-piece group from Wiltshire made an impact with their album ‘Derdang Derdang’; TV presenter and former host of ‘Popworld’ (C4) Simon Amstell, returned to his comedy roots in 2006 with a successful debut at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and as the new host of ‘Never Mind The Buzzcocks’ (BBC Two); and Scottish author Jane Harris made a stunning debut with her novel ‘The Observations’.
Alex O’Connell, Arts Editor of The Times adds; “This year's nominees are a cultural bumper crop and The Times is delighted to be associated with an award which champions the rising stars of arts and entertainment."
THE SOUTH BANK SHOW AWARDS will be transmitted on Sunday 28th January 2007 on ITV1. The full list of nominations for all ten main categories plus the Arts Council England - decibel award will be announced in early January.
Autodesk Solutions for Blockbuster Movies
Autodesk Solutions Bring Magic to the Big Screen This Holiday Season with The Covenant, Casino Royale, Stranger Than Fiction and More
Autodesk Inc.’s (NASDAQ: ADSK) media and entertainment products have helped digital artists create some of this season’s blockbuster films. Post-production facilities relied on Autodesk solutions for visual effects creation, editing and finishing, colour grading and 3D animation.
“Autodesk provides end-to-end solutions for the entire film workflow, from idea creation and story boarding to final production,” explained Marc Petit, Autodesk’s Media & Entertainment vice president. “This allows Autodesk to have a deep understanding of all aspects of the film workflow, enabling us to create unique solutions that meet the specific needs of post-production facilities. Also, facilities with an Autodesk pipeline enjoy the seamless movement of data through the various stages of film workflows.”
The Autodesk Flame visual effects system was used by Buzz Image Group to create 33 shots for the supernatural film The Covenant. Flame artists at the facility composited 3D set extensions and actors shot on bluescreen and greenscreen into filmed backgrounds. Digital artists also used the system to create and adjust various elements such as lighthouse lighting and skies, as well as for various wire and lighting rig removals.
Furthermore, Buzz Image Group used Autodesk Flame to shape futuristic scenes for The Fountain. For one of this film’s final scenes, the system was used to create the effect of skin ripping as plants grow through it. The facility’s Flame work also involved compositing live and computer-generated (CG) growing plant elements into live-action footage. “Autodesk Flame allows us to take full advantage of our artists’ talent and creativity,” said Jacques Levesque, executive visual effects producer. “The system’s speed and interactivity let us experiment in real-time until we perfect the shot.”
Framestore CFC used the Autodesk Inferno visual effects system to create the title sequence for Casino Royale, the story of James Bond's first mission as a “double O” agent. As this was the 21st Bond film created, director and titles designer Daniel Kleinman wanted to refresh the franchise’s famous title sequence. Using gambling-related imagery and fight sequences, Framestore CFC’s Head of Inferno, William Bartlett, created a modern sequence with a retrospective feel.
Los Angeles-based LaserPacific Media Corporation used the Autodesk Lustre digital colour grading system on a variety of this season’s films, including Babel, The Black Dahlia, For Your Consideration and Stranger Than Fiction. For Stranger Than Fiction, the facility played a key role in integrating many of the film’s visual effects shots. Lustre was used to build the film’s timeline.
Colourist Mike Sowa also used the system to achieve the perfect colour choices and saturation for the film. “We recalled the look, style and feeling of Jacques Tati’s 1967 film Play Time,” said cinematographer Roberto Schafer. “Now that Roberto has seen the tremendous degree of control, he is a firm believer in the DI process,” added Sowa.
Autodesk 3ds Max 3D animation, modelling and rendering software was used by Youngu-art to model and animate legendary creatures that return to devastate planet earth in the Korean film D-War. “We chose Autodesk 3ds Max for its powerful polygon modelling, which allowed us to create the complex and detailed characters in a very intuitive and efficient way,” noted Ho-Suk Jang, computer graphic supervisor for the film. “The software’s biped character animation tools also allowed us to easily control the various types of characters as they interacted with crowds of humans.”
Several other post-production facilities used Autodesk solutions to create this season’s blockbuster films, including the following:
* Mokko Studios completed 8 hero shots for The Fountain using the Autodesk Toxik digital compositing software. In the Mayan pyramid final scene, Toxik was used to composite live-action footage of Hugh Jackman with various elements
* For Night at the Museum Rhythm & Hues used Autodesk Maya to model approximately 60 of the museum’s characters and Autodesk Inferno 2007 for compositing and colour correction. The facility also used Inferno and Maya to bring a classic story to life in Charlotte’s Web
* Cinesite used Autodesk Maya 3D animation, modelling and rendering software to create shots of a CG steam train for Miss Potter
* For The Curse of the Golden Flower Moving Picture Company created 20 shots including a CG army using Autodesk Maya
* Asylum used Autodesk Inferno and Autodesk Flame, as well as the Autodesk Smoke editing and finishing system to shape Déjà Vu. Autodesk Lustre digital colour grading system was also used to maintain colour continuity. In addition, the facility completed work for Apocalypto using Inferno, Toxik and Lustre
* Look Effects created visual effects shots for Apocalypto, Blood Diamond, Unaccompanied Minors and Rocky Balboa using Maya as well as the Autodesk Flame and Autodesk Flint visual effects systems
Autodesk Inc.’s (NASDAQ: ADSK) media and entertainment products have helped digital artists create some of this season’s blockbuster films. Post-production facilities relied on Autodesk solutions for visual effects creation, editing and finishing, colour grading and 3D animation.
“Autodesk provides end-to-end solutions for the entire film workflow, from idea creation and story boarding to final production,” explained Marc Petit, Autodesk’s Media & Entertainment vice president. “This allows Autodesk to have a deep understanding of all aspects of the film workflow, enabling us to create unique solutions that meet the specific needs of post-production facilities. Also, facilities with an Autodesk pipeline enjoy the seamless movement of data through the various stages of film workflows.”
The Autodesk Flame visual effects system was used by Buzz Image Group to create 33 shots for the supernatural film The Covenant. Flame artists at the facility composited 3D set extensions and actors shot on bluescreen and greenscreen into filmed backgrounds. Digital artists also used the system to create and adjust various elements such as lighthouse lighting and skies, as well as for various wire and lighting rig removals.
Furthermore, Buzz Image Group used Autodesk Flame to shape futuristic scenes for The Fountain. For one of this film’s final scenes, the system was used to create the effect of skin ripping as plants grow through it. The facility’s Flame work also involved compositing live and computer-generated (CG) growing plant elements into live-action footage. “Autodesk Flame allows us to take full advantage of our artists’ talent and creativity,” said Jacques Levesque, executive visual effects producer. “The system’s speed and interactivity let us experiment in real-time until we perfect the shot.”
Framestore CFC used the Autodesk Inferno visual effects system to create the title sequence for Casino Royale, the story of James Bond's first mission as a “double O” agent. As this was the 21st Bond film created, director and titles designer Daniel Kleinman wanted to refresh the franchise’s famous title sequence. Using gambling-related imagery and fight sequences, Framestore CFC’s Head of Inferno, William Bartlett, created a modern sequence with a retrospective feel.
Los Angeles-based LaserPacific Media Corporation used the Autodesk Lustre digital colour grading system on a variety of this season’s films, including Babel, The Black Dahlia, For Your Consideration and Stranger Than Fiction. For Stranger Than Fiction, the facility played a key role in integrating many of the film’s visual effects shots. Lustre was used to build the film’s timeline.
Colourist Mike Sowa also used the system to achieve the perfect colour choices and saturation for the film. “We recalled the look, style and feeling of Jacques Tati’s 1967 film Play Time,” said cinematographer Roberto Schafer. “Now that Roberto has seen the tremendous degree of control, he is a firm believer in the DI process,” added Sowa.
Autodesk 3ds Max 3D animation, modelling and rendering software was used by Youngu-art to model and animate legendary creatures that return to devastate planet earth in the Korean film D-War. “We chose Autodesk 3ds Max for its powerful polygon modelling, which allowed us to create the complex and detailed characters in a very intuitive and efficient way,” noted Ho-Suk Jang, computer graphic supervisor for the film. “The software’s biped character animation tools also allowed us to easily control the various types of characters as they interacted with crowds of humans.”
Several other post-production facilities used Autodesk solutions to create this season’s blockbuster films, including the following:
* Mokko Studios completed 8 hero shots for The Fountain using the Autodesk Toxik digital compositing software. In the Mayan pyramid final scene, Toxik was used to composite live-action footage of Hugh Jackman with various elements
* For Night at the Museum Rhythm & Hues used Autodesk Maya to model approximately 60 of the museum’s characters and Autodesk Inferno 2007 for compositing and colour correction. The facility also used Inferno and Maya to bring a classic story to life in Charlotte’s Web
* Cinesite used Autodesk Maya 3D animation, modelling and rendering software to create shots of a CG steam train for Miss Potter
* For The Curse of the Golden Flower Moving Picture Company created 20 shots including a CG army using Autodesk Maya
* Asylum used Autodesk Inferno and Autodesk Flame, as well as the Autodesk Smoke editing and finishing system to shape Déjà Vu. Autodesk Lustre digital colour grading system was also used to maintain colour continuity. In addition, the facility completed work for Apocalypto using Inferno, Toxik and Lustre
* Look Effects created visual effects shots for Apocalypto, Blood Diamond, Unaccompanied Minors and Rocky Balboa using Maya as well as the Autodesk Flame and Autodesk Flint visual effects systems
University trials new Xbox software
The University of Bradford has been giving suggestions and advice for a new piece of software developed by Microsoft which will allow video game enthusiasts the chance to create their own games for use on the Xbox 360 games console.
The software, called XNA Game Studio Express, will allow gamers to use a tools programme to create games for the Xbox 360 and share them via the Xbox Live online service.
Microsoft hopes that the software will not only be used by amateur game developers, but also by students. With this in mind, five UK universities were involved in the initial trial of the software, including Bradford, Derby, Hull, Belfast and Nottingham.
Students and gaming enthusiasts will be able to download the software for free, and many have already registered their interest in joining the XNA Creators Club, which allows DIY developers access to technical support, white papers, starter kits and other technology that will help them make the game authentic.
Head of Electronic Imaging and Media Communications (EIMC) at the University of Bradford, Dr Ian Palmer, said: “We’re very pleased to be part of the initial launch of Microsoft’s XNA Game Studio Express. The software will provide our students with the opportunity to easily experiment with their ideas with the knowledge that they will be able to see their invention in reality.
“This is a great chance for students to work on games without financial support, replicating the days when games were made with low budgets.”
For more information about courses and research within EIMC at the University of Bradford, visit: www.eimc.brad.ac.uk
The software, called XNA Game Studio Express, will allow gamers to use a tools programme to create games for the Xbox 360 and share them via the Xbox Live online service.
Microsoft hopes that the software will not only be used by amateur game developers, but also by students. With this in mind, five UK universities were involved in the initial trial of the software, including Bradford, Derby, Hull, Belfast and Nottingham.
Students and gaming enthusiasts will be able to download the software for free, and many have already registered their interest in joining the XNA Creators Club, which allows DIY developers access to technical support, white papers, starter kits and other technology that will help them make the game authentic.
Head of Electronic Imaging and Media Communications (EIMC) at the University of Bradford, Dr Ian Palmer, said: “We’re very pleased to be part of the initial launch of Microsoft’s XNA Game Studio Express. The software will provide our students with the opportunity to easily experiment with their ideas with the knowledge that they will be able to see their invention in reality.
“This is a great chance for students to work on games without financial support, replicating the days when games were made with low budgets.”
For more information about courses and research within EIMC at the University of Bradford, visit: www.eimc.brad.ac.uk
Wednesday, November 15, 2006
Chronos on DVD
Ron Fricke, visionary director of the acclaimed Baraka, made his directorial debut with the stunning visual odyssey Chronos, which makes its DVD debut courtesy of Second Sight on 26 February 2007.
The film imparts a unique vision of our world – the first non-verbal, non-fiction motion picture filmed in time-lapse photography. Presented as a visual symphony in seven movements, Chronos embarks on an unprecedented cinematic journey across the worlds of natural beauty and manmade monuments, as it explores the essence of time.
Fricke burst onto the scene as director of photography for the groundbreaking Koyaanisqatsi in 1983 and has since gone on to deliver the rousing Baraka, a huge success upon its DVD release. Award-winning composer Michael Stearns provides the rousing score.
Chronos is a visual and musical journey through time from the cradle of civilization to modern day Paris.
Bonus Features – commentary and behind the scenes feature
Title: Chronos
Release Date: 26 February 2007
RRP: £12.99
The film imparts a unique vision of our world – the first non-verbal, non-fiction motion picture filmed in time-lapse photography. Presented as a visual symphony in seven movements, Chronos embarks on an unprecedented cinematic journey across the worlds of natural beauty and manmade monuments, as it explores the essence of time.
Fricke burst onto the scene as director of photography for the groundbreaking Koyaanisqatsi in 1983 and has since gone on to deliver the rousing Baraka, a huge success upon its DVD release. Award-winning composer Michael Stearns provides the rousing score.
Chronos is a visual and musical journey through time from the cradle of civilization to modern day Paris.
Bonus Features – commentary and behind the scenes feature
Title: Chronos
Release Date: 26 February 2007
RRP: £12.99
Hellzapoppin’ On DVD
The ground-breaking and hugely influential comedy classic Hellzapoppin’ makes its DVD debut courtesy of Second Sight. The film was way ahead of its time and has inspired generations of comedians. It has been described as ‘Pythonesque’ and will be released for the first time ever on DVD courtesy of Second Sight on 5 February 2007.
The film was based on the Broadway hit of the same name, where anything went, there was no plot and no two shows were alike.
The film stars Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson and somewhere amid the non-stop gags and hysterical mayhem there’s a plot involving the staging of a musical, a romance, a bumbling private eye and a man who keeps wandering on with a pot plant for ‘Mrs Jones’! But any plot is incidental to the speed, imagination and sheer craziness that ‘outstrips the works of the Marx Brothers’ (Time Out).
Hellzapopppin’ features the most famous and most spectacular Lindy Hop scene ever preserved on film, the breathtaking routine is performed by the wonderful Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers.
Title: Hellzapoppin’
Release Date: 5 February 2007
RRP: £15.99
The film was based on the Broadway hit of the same name, where anything went, there was no plot and no two shows were alike.
The film stars Ole Olsen and Chic Johnson and somewhere amid the non-stop gags and hysterical mayhem there’s a plot involving the staging of a musical, a romance, a bumbling private eye and a man who keeps wandering on with a pot plant for ‘Mrs Jones’! But any plot is incidental to the speed, imagination and sheer craziness that ‘outstrips the works of the Marx Brothers’ (Time Out).
Hellzapopppin’ features the most famous and most spectacular Lindy Hop scene ever preserved on film, the breathtaking routine is performed by the wonderful Whitey’s Lindy Hoppers.
Title: Hellzapoppin’
Release Date: 5 February 2007
RRP: £15.99
LOVEFiLM LAUNCHES TV DOWNLOADS
LOVEFiLM.com, the UK’s number one online film rental and download service, has added TV programmes from Discovery Networks to its product line up today.
The service, which already offers over 62,000 titles in its online DVD rental range, and over 2,000 movies and short films in its download range, will now offer over 45 titles from Discovery for download rental. Discovery Networks will provide LOVEFiLM customers with a resource of real-world video content from the company’s vast library of programming, including popular series such as Mythbusters, American Chopper, Extreme Engineering, Deadliest Catch and John Lydon’s Mega Bugs as well as documentary specials such as Da Vinci Code Declassified. Additional titles will be added each month.
LOVEFiLM has transformed the UK entertainment rental market in the UK with its revolutionary DVD rental service. The ultra convenience of DVDs delivered to customer’s homes was improved by the launch of downloadable movies to the PC in the last year. Now, customers can also download shorter-form programmes from Discovery’s family of channels..
“The LOVEFiLM download service is super fast and praised for its high quality images. Our users are crying out for the kind of great programming that Discovery is bringing to downloads”, said LOVEFiLM’s Marketing Director, Simon Morris.
He continues, “The great thing is that we can also match programmes to consumers based on their existing ratings and preferences. We know an awful lot about today’s entertainment consumer, what they want to watch and when they want to watch it. It’s great to have Discovery on board.”
“By providing some of Discovery’s best content for download rental to LOVEFiLM users, we are giving fans of Discovery’s programming more ways to enjoy content that both informs and entertains from across key categories, such as engineering, motors, science, natural history, human adventure and lifestyle,” said Melanie Honnor, Vice President of New Media, Discovery Networks Europe.
* LOVEFiLM also operates a VoD service to AOL UK customers and selected titles from the Discovery range will be available on the LOVEFiLM powered AOL service. (http://www.aol.co.uk/film/downloads/)
The service, which already offers over 62,000 titles in its online DVD rental range, and over 2,000 movies and short films in its download range, will now offer over 45 titles from Discovery for download rental. Discovery Networks will provide LOVEFiLM customers with a resource of real-world video content from the company’s vast library of programming, including popular series such as Mythbusters, American Chopper, Extreme Engineering, Deadliest Catch and John Lydon’s Mega Bugs as well as documentary specials such as Da Vinci Code Declassified. Additional titles will be added each month.
LOVEFiLM has transformed the UK entertainment rental market in the UK with its revolutionary DVD rental service. The ultra convenience of DVDs delivered to customer’s homes was improved by the launch of downloadable movies to the PC in the last year. Now, customers can also download shorter-form programmes from Discovery’s family of channels..
“The LOVEFiLM download service is super fast and praised for its high quality images. Our users are crying out for the kind of great programming that Discovery is bringing to downloads”, said LOVEFiLM’s Marketing Director, Simon Morris.
He continues, “The great thing is that we can also match programmes to consumers based on their existing ratings and preferences. We know an awful lot about today’s entertainment consumer, what they want to watch and when they want to watch it. It’s great to have Discovery on board.”
“By providing some of Discovery’s best content for download rental to LOVEFiLM users, we are giving fans of Discovery’s programming more ways to enjoy content that both informs and entertains from across key categories, such as engineering, motors, science, natural history, human adventure and lifestyle,” said Melanie Honnor, Vice President of New Media, Discovery Networks Europe.
* LOVEFiLM also operates a VoD service to AOL UK customers and selected titles from the Discovery range will be available on the LOVEFiLM powered AOL service. (http://www.aol.co.uk/film/downloads/)
Universal Shows Its Bottom
THERE’S A rumbling in the basement, a rumpus in the offing and a foul smell in the air as Universal Pictures reaches for the air freshener and announces a 27th November release date for The Big Bottom Collection. With a recommended retail price of just £39.99, this brilliant new box set celebrates the very best of Rik Mayall and Ade Edmondson's anarchic creations, featuring DVD releases of no less than five live shows plus Best of Bottom Live and, as an added bonus, the depraved duo’s equally riotous feature film, Guest House Paradiso.
It was 15 years ago that sad pervie Richard Richard (Rik Mayall) and his masochistic flatmate Eddie Hitler (Adrian Edmonson) first launched their whirlwind blend of slapstick, farce and abuse onto an unsuspecting British public. Three TV series and five live theatre shows of Bottom later, these two head-banging morons whose idea of a wild night is pulling out nose hair with a pair of pliers have become two of the nation’s greatest ever comedy creations.
BOTTOM LIVE – THE STAGE SHOW
Recorded live at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton during a sell out 1993 nationwide tour which left over 250,000 fans in a state of complete delirium, this is a side of Bottom that television would never dare show! For the first time unfettered by the restrictions of TV, Bottom Live - The Stage Show transported viewers into the explosively insane world of society's most catastrophic no-hopers. Surviving on a diet of vitriol, mutually inflicted wounds, booze and rotten food, they belch, curse and smash their way through the boredom of life. Totally over-the-top, completely uncensored and bloody hilarious, this is Richie and Eddie as they were meant to be seen.
BOTTOM LIVE – THE BIG NUMBER 2
Sex is the problem for Richie and Eddie, they can't get any! In this outrageous slice of obscene live comedy filmed at the Apollo Theatre, Oxford, the boys become obsessed with the fact that everyone in the world apart from them is having sex - and no one will let them watch. Deciding to do something about it, they set out on a desperate quest to press the flesh, from the Queen to sheep.
BOTTOM LIVE – HOOLIGAN’S ISLAND
Filmed during their sell-out 1997 tour, we catch up with Richie and Eddie as they are marooned on a desert island in the middle of the Pacific with no food, and even worse, no booze or pornography. Will they build a raft and escape? Grasp the opportunity to embrace the earthly paradise around them? Or will they simply fart and fight, puke and poke their way through 100 minutes of hilariously outrageous live situation comedy?
BOTTOM LIVE – AN ARSE ODDITY
Filmed during the sell-out tour of 2001, we find Ritchie and Eddie where we left them - stuck on a Pacific island and still the saddest pair of losers the world has ever known. Surviving on a diet of bone-crunching nastiness and violently successful accidents, they encounter an exploding parrot, experiment with a chainsaw and indulge in a bout of enthusiastic pig worrying. Explosively insane and unfettered by any morals whatsoever, this is as disgusting and degrading as it is hilarious.
BOTTOM LIVE – WEAPONS GRADE Y-FRONT TOUR
Full Metal Jacket meets Apocalypse Now…..in the bog. Yes, it’s time for everyone’s favourite insane no-hopers to save the world from a war much bigger than a mere Middle Eastern conflict - the fight between good and underpants. Luckily, Eddie has invented a time travelling toilet to help them along the way...
THE BEST OF BOTTOM LIVE
The legendary Bottom Live tours were the most anarchic, squalid, violent and downright bloody hilarious comedies ever seen and now all the very best bits have been condensed into one hilarious DVD. Also featured are interviews with Rik and Ade’s unlucky neighbours, exclusive bloopers from the boy’s movie, Guest House Paradiso, and a brilliant Making of Documentary which reveals just how they managed to sink to such depths of depravity.
GUEST HOUSE PARADISO
Richie and Eddie’s feature film debut sees them joining forces with a whole host of luminaries, Bill Nighy, Simon Pegg, Vincent Cassel, Sophia Myles and Fenella Fielding to name but a few.
Richie Twat and Eddie Elizabeth Ndingombaba welcome you to the Guest House Paradiso where people pay to check in and pray to check out...
Very possibly the world’s worst hotel, its chef's a drunken illegal immigrant, the waiter's been readmitted to the psychiatric hospital, Mr Twat likes rummaging through his guests' underwear and the sea-view’s not quite what it should be.
All in all the Guest House Paradiso is the perfect hiding place for sexy Italian movie star Gina "Nipples from Naples" Carbonara (Helene Mahieau), who’s on the run after jilting her fiancé, renowned playboy and former-racing driver, Gino Bolognese.
But with her ex in hot pursuit and something decidedly iffy about the fish dinner, Richie and Eddie really are going to need a miracle.
Product Information:
Release date: 27th November 2006
Running Time: TBC
Certificate: TBC
No. of Discs: TBC
It was 15 years ago that sad pervie Richard Richard (Rik Mayall) and his masochistic flatmate Eddie Hitler (Adrian Edmonson) first launched their whirlwind blend of slapstick, farce and abuse onto an unsuspecting British public. Three TV series and five live theatre shows of Bottom later, these two head-banging morons whose idea of a wild night is pulling out nose hair with a pair of pliers have become two of the nation’s greatest ever comedy creations.
BOTTOM LIVE – THE STAGE SHOW
Recorded live at the Mayflower Theatre, Southampton during a sell out 1993 nationwide tour which left over 250,000 fans in a state of complete delirium, this is a side of Bottom that television would never dare show! For the first time unfettered by the restrictions of TV, Bottom Live - The Stage Show transported viewers into the explosively insane world of society's most catastrophic no-hopers. Surviving on a diet of vitriol, mutually inflicted wounds, booze and rotten food, they belch, curse and smash their way through the boredom of life. Totally over-the-top, completely uncensored and bloody hilarious, this is Richie and Eddie as they were meant to be seen.
BOTTOM LIVE – THE BIG NUMBER 2
Sex is the problem for Richie and Eddie, they can't get any! In this outrageous slice of obscene live comedy filmed at the Apollo Theatre, Oxford, the boys become obsessed with the fact that everyone in the world apart from them is having sex - and no one will let them watch. Deciding to do something about it, they set out on a desperate quest to press the flesh, from the Queen to sheep.
BOTTOM LIVE – HOOLIGAN’S ISLAND
Filmed during their sell-out 1997 tour, we catch up with Richie and Eddie as they are marooned on a desert island in the middle of the Pacific with no food, and even worse, no booze or pornography. Will they build a raft and escape? Grasp the opportunity to embrace the earthly paradise around them? Or will they simply fart and fight, puke and poke their way through 100 minutes of hilariously outrageous live situation comedy?
BOTTOM LIVE – AN ARSE ODDITY
Filmed during the sell-out tour of 2001, we find Ritchie and Eddie where we left them - stuck on a Pacific island and still the saddest pair of losers the world has ever known. Surviving on a diet of bone-crunching nastiness and violently successful accidents, they encounter an exploding parrot, experiment with a chainsaw and indulge in a bout of enthusiastic pig worrying. Explosively insane and unfettered by any morals whatsoever, this is as disgusting and degrading as it is hilarious.
BOTTOM LIVE – WEAPONS GRADE Y-FRONT TOUR
Full Metal Jacket meets Apocalypse Now…..in the bog. Yes, it’s time for everyone’s favourite insane no-hopers to save the world from a war much bigger than a mere Middle Eastern conflict - the fight between good and underpants. Luckily, Eddie has invented a time travelling toilet to help them along the way...
THE BEST OF BOTTOM LIVE
The legendary Bottom Live tours were the most anarchic, squalid, violent and downright bloody hilarious comedies ever seen and now all the very best bits have been condensed into one hilarious DVD. Also featured are interviews with Rik and Ade’s unlucky neighbours, exclusive bloopers from the boy’s movie, Guest House Paradiso, and a brilliant Making of Documentary which reveals just how they managed to sink to such depths of depravity.
GUEST HOUSE PARADISO
Richie and Eddie’s feature film debut sees them joining forces with a whole host of luminaries, Bill Nighy, Simon Pegg, Vincent Cassel, Sophia Myles and Fenella Fielding to name but a few.
Richie Twat and Eddie Elizabeth Ndingombaba welcome you to the Guest House Paradiso where people pay to check in and pray to check out...
Very possibly the world’s worst hotel, its chef's a drunken illegal immigrant, the waiter's been readmitted to the psychiatric hospital, Mr Twat likes rummaging through his guests' underwear and the sea-view’s not quite what it should be.
All in all the Guest House Paradiso is the perfect hiding place for sexy Italian movie star Gina "Nipples from Naples" Carbonara (Helene Mahieau), who’s on the run after jilting her fiancé, renowned playboy and former-racing driver, Gino Bolognese.
But with her ex in hot pursuit and something decidedly iffy about the fish dinner, Richie and Eddie really are going to need a miracle.
Product Information:
Release date: 27th November 2006
Running Time: TBC
Certificate: TBC
No. of Discs: TBC
Monday, November 13, 2006
Ridicule Released
Second Sight is delighted to announce the release of multi-award-winning film Ridicule from one of France’s most acclaimed directors Patrice Leconte. It will be released on DVD courtesy of Second Sight on 29 January 2007.
A poor nobleman has a plan to rid his homeland of its disease infested swamp. To do this he needs backing and so heads to the court of King Louis XV1 in a bid to solicit aid. He soon discovers that the worthiness of the plan itself will not grant him an audience with the King, at Versailles the sharpnesss of one’s wit is what gets you noticed.
Patrice Leconte’s lavish, superbly written costume drama was a BAFTA winner for best foreign language film, winner of four Cesars (French Oscars) and nominated for both an Oscar and the Palm D’Or.
With such films as The Hairdresser's Husband and Monsieur Hire, Leconte has built a reputation as one of the most respected and versatile French directors.
Bonus Feature – ‘The Story of Ridicule’
Release Date: 29 January 2007
RRP: £19.99
A poor nobleman has a plan to rid his homeland of its disease infested swamp. To do this he needs backing and so heads to the court of King Louis XV1 in a bid to solicit aid. He soon discovers that the worthiness of the plan itself will not grant him an audience with the King, at Versailles the sharpnesss of one’s wit is what gets you noticed.
Patrice Leconte’s lavish, superbly written costume drama was a BAFTA winner for best foreign language film, winner of four Cesars (French Oscars) and nominated for both an Oscar and the Palm D’Or.
With such films as The Hairdresser's Husband and Monsieur Hire, Leconte has built a reputation as one of the most respected and versatile French directors.
Bonus Feature – ‘The Story of Ridicule’
Release Date: 29 January 2007
RRP: £19.99
New company to focus on mobile entertainment content
Namco Europe Ltd’s Web & Mobile Content division today announced the formation of a new company aimed at expanding its presence in the maturing mobile content industry in Europe. NAMCO BANDAI Networks Europe Ltd will begin trading as of 1st January 2007. This is part of the overall group restructure plans, following the European restructuring by NAMCO BANDAI Group.
The new company will focus exclusively on mobile entertainment content based not only on well known Namco brands such as PAC-MAN, Galaxian and RIDGE RACER, but also the extensive portfolio of games and non-gaming content which Bandai adds, such as Tamagotchi. In addition, the company plans to publish mobile content created specifically for the European market, from both NAMCO BANDAI and third party developers.
More information about NAMCO BANDAI Networks Europe Ltd, its products and services can be found online at www.namcomobile.com
“PAC-MAN”, “Galaxian”, and “RIDGE RACER” are registered trademarks of NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. Tamagotchi (c) BANDAI, WiZ 2004-2005. All rights reserved.
The new company will focus exclusively on mobile entertainment content based not only on well known Namco brands such as PAC-MAN, Galaxian and RIDGE RACER, but also the extensive portfolio of games and non-gaming content which Bandai adds, such as Tamagotchi. In addition, the company plans to publish mobile content created specifically for the European market, from both NAMCO BANDAI and third party developers.
More information about NAMCO BANDAI Networks Europe Ltd, its products and services can be found online at www.namcomobile.com
“PAC-MAN”, “Galaxian”, and “RIDGE RACER” are registered trademarks of NAMCO BANDAI Games Inc. Tamagotchi (c) BANDAI, WiZ 2004-2005. All rights reserved.
LAUNCH OF THE IIFA AWARDS
On Wednesday 8th November 2006, celebrities, dignitaries and businesses gathered at the House of Commons to celebrate the official announcement of the International Indian Film Academy Awards Weekend (IIFAs) in Yorkshire, June 2007.
The biggest stars of Indian film, along with some of the world’s best-known international celebrities, will be arriving in Yorkshire next June for the spectacular IIFA Weekend and the exciting celebrity action will be broadcast across the world on the Star TV network. The IIFA Awards presentation ceremony has a global reach of nearly 500 million viewers.
Since its launch in 2000, the IIFA Weekend has been staged at prestigious locations across the world, including Singapore, Malaysia, Amsterdam, South Africa and Dubai, and has grown to become one of the most respected global media events.
At the House of Commons, the epitome of Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan, IIFA’s Brand Ambassador, was joined by dignitaries, including Secretary of State, Tessa Jowell, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, Kamlesh Sharma and Keith Vaz MP, to celebrate the return of the IIFA Weekend to the UK. Additionally, Judith Donovan, chairperson for the Yorkshire Tourism Board and Tom Riordan, CEO, Yorkshire Forward, the regional development authority which won the bid to host the prestigious IIFA Weekend, announced details of the IIFA Weekend and the anticipated impact for Yorkshire business and tourism.
Just before the official announcement, Mr. Bachchan along with Keith Vaz MP, Mr. Sanjeev Aga, Managing Director, Idea Cellular Ltd, Judith Donovan, Tom Roirdion, and the Wizcraft Directors had the pleasure of meeting with Rt. HON Gordon Brown, Chancellor of the Exchequer at the Treasury. Rt. HON Brown presented Mr. Bachchan and Mr. Aga with a special certificate for their support to the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIm). Amitabh Bachchan is the first celebrity and the sixth person in the world to be awarded with this certificate. Rt. HON Brown also extended his support to the upcoming IIFA Weekend in Yorkshire and congratulated Yorkshire for winning the IIFA Bid.
On the occasion Rt. HON Brown said, “The IIFA Weekend has my unprecedented support. The relationship between India and the UK is long standing and one we would like to keep developing forever.” Mr. Bachchan was honoured to receive the IFFIm bond and said, “This noble cause has my utmost support and I would be happy to help the IFFIm Bond in whatever way I can.” Mr. Bachchan also reverently supports the Unicef and the Pulse Polio Immunisation drive in India.
IFFIm works by donors floating bonds from the commercial market. Recognising the strong moral purpose underpinning IFFIm, representatives of the major faith groups including His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Chief Rabbi, the Muslim Council of Britain, the Hindu Forum of Britain and the Network of Sikh Organisations will each buy a bond, the first six of only ten to be issued, denominated at $1,000. International celebrities Bono and Sir Bob Geldof have also bought an IFFIm bond.
At the event, Mr Bachchan who was voted BBC’s Superstar of the Millennium in 2000 pushing behind Hollywood’s biggest stars, focused on the rising popularity of Indian cinema as a major global business. Mr Bachchan said: “IIFA is committed to taking Indian Cinema across the globe and into the UK with the 2007 IIFA Weekend in Yorkshire. Cinema brings together people from diverse cultures for a shared experience bridging the cultural divide. Using cinema as a key to open minds the International Indian Film Academy believes bridges should be built across cinemas, businesses, communities and nations.”
IIFA director Sabbas Joseph gave a presentation of the IIFA concept and the activities to be held throughout the IIFA weekend. These include business seminars, acting workshops with leading Indian film directors and actors, a celebrity cricket match and finally the film academy awards evening.
“IIFA has travelled to six countries across the world and has left a mark in the minds and hearts of the people. We are confident that the IIFA Weekend in Yorkshire will have the same impact”, said Sabbas Joseph, Director, IIFA.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sanjeev Aga, Managing Director, Idea Cellular, the lead sponsors of the Idea IIFA Awards said, “Idea is delighted to be associated with the IIFA movement and its journey to Yorkshire. Idea Cellular is a part of the Aditya Birla Group, which has had a very deep association with the UK over the years. We are keenly looking forward to the celebrations at the Idea IIFA Awards in June 2007.”
Supported by Prime Minister Tony Blair, Yorkshire was successful in its bid to attract the event organisers attention. Judith Donovan said: “Yorkshire is one of the premier locations in the UK and is delighted to be hosting the eighth year of the prestigious IIFA Weekend. It looks forward to opening its doors and welcoming film personalities, business stalwarts, eminent public figures of India and the rest of the world”.
The House of Commons launch event was followed by a five-city launch the next day in the company of the Mayors of York, Hull, Leeds, Sheffield and Bradford, who will flag off the IIFA Weekend announcement along with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. The five-city launch will be held at the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television (NMPFT), Bradford.
Amitabh Bachchan was joined by dignitaries from Yorkshire Forward, the Yorkshire Tourism Board, Baroness Anne Taylor of Bolton and the directors from the International Indian Film Academy. Among those discussing the potential benefits of having the event on Yorkshire’s doorstep were Peter Wybenga and Amina Toher whose countries hosted the two previous IIFA Weekends in Amsterdam 2005 and Dubai 2006.
The UK and India have a long and profitable history of business relationships and the UK is India’s number one location for investment in Europe. The economic impact of the IIFA weekend is significant and will affect sectors such as hospitality, tourism, travel, telecommunications, television and above all the world of cinema.
Terry Hodgkinson, Chair of Yorkshire Forward, said: “The Indian economy is set to grow by 10% in the next 12 months alone and companies are looking to make investments overseas – especially in the UK. Hosting the awards will act as a catalyst to access the Indian market, forging stronger business and cultural links between our region and India.
“Today, Yorkshire is a vibrant, diverse and beautiful economic powerhouse. Our cities are poised to join the most famous and successful international locations and our people are seized with a rich sense of local pride and confidence.
Previous IIFA Weekend events have hosted some of the world’s major celebrities including Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Shekhar Kapur, Ashok Amritraj, Jean Claude Van Damme, Bo Derek, Aishwarya Rai, Shah Rukh Khan and others. IIFA Weekend celebrations, which were launched at the Millennium Dome in 2000, have travelled across South Africa, Malaysia, Singapore, Amsterdam and Dubai. IIFA Weekend Yorkshire marks the return of the celebration which has already become one of the worlds most-watched and sought after event.
The IIFA Weekend Yorkshire is supported by Yorkshire Forward, Yorkshire Tourist Board, Star TV network and Idea Cellular Ltd. Elite Limousines and the Oulton Hall are some of the key partners who are helping set the stage for the mega celebration.
The biggest stars of Indian film, along with some of the world’s best-known international celebrities, will be arriving in Yorkshire next June for the spectacular IIFA Weekend and the exciting celebrity action will be broadcast across the world on the Star TV network. The IIFA Awards presentation ceremony has a global reach of nearly 500 million viewers.
Since its launch in 2000, the IIFA Weekend has been staged at prestigious locations across the world, including Singapore, Malaysia, Amsterdam, South Africa and Dubai, and has grown to become one of the most respected global media events.
At the House of Commons, the epitome of Indian cinema, Amitabh Bachchan, IIFA’s Brand Ambassador, was joined by dignitaries, including Secretary of State, Tessa Jowell, the High Commissioner of India to the UK, Kamlesh Sharma and Keith Vaz MP, to celebrate the return of the IIFA Weekend to the UK. Additionally, Judith Donovan, chairperson for the Yorkshire Tourism Board and Tom Riordan, CEO, Yorkshire Forward, the regional development authority which won the bid to host the prestigious IIFA Weekend, announced details of the IIFA Weekend and the anticipated impact for Yorkshire business and tourism.
Just before the official announcement, Mr. Bachchan along with Keith Vaz MP, Mr. Sanjeev Aga, Managing Director, Idea Cellular Ltd, Judith Donovan, Tom Roirdion, and the Wizcraft Directors had the pleasure of meeting with Rt. HON Gordon Brown, Chancellor of the Exchequer at the Treasury. Rt. HON Brown presented Mr. Bachchan and Mr. Aga with a special certificate for their support to the International Finance Facility for Immunisation (IFFIm). Amitabh Bachchan is the first celebrity and the sixth person in the world to be awarded with this certificate. Rt. HON Brown also extended his support to the upcoming IIFA Weekend in Yorkshire and congratulated Yorkshire for winning the IIFA Bid.
On the occasion Rt. HON Brown said, “The IIFA Weekend has my unprecedented support. The relationship between India and the UK is long standing and one we would like to keep developing forever.” Mr. Bachchan was honoured to receive the IFFIm bond and said, “This noble cause has my utmost support and I would be happy to help the IFFIm Bond in whatever way I can.” Mr. Bachchan also reverently supports the Unicef and the Pulse Polio Immunisation drive in India.
IFFIm works by donors floating bonds from the commercial market. Recognising the strong moral purpose underpinning IFFIm, representatives of the major faith groups including His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI, the Archbishop of Canterbury, the Chief Rabbi, the Muslim Council of Britain, the Hindu Forum of Britain and the Network of Sikh Organisations will each buy a bond, the first six of only ten to be issued, denominated at $1,000. International celebrities Bono and Sir Bob Geldof have also bought an IFFIm bond.
At the event, Mr Bachchan who was voted BBC’s Superstar of the Millennium in 2000 pushing behind Hollywood’s biggest stars, focused on the rising popularity of Indian cinema as a major global business. Mr Bachchan said: “IIFA is committed to taking Indian Cinema across the globe and into the UK with the 2007 IIFA Weekend in Yorkshire. Cinema brings together people from diverse cultures for a shared experience bridging the cultural divide. Using cinema as a key to open minds the International Indian Film Academy believes bridges should be built across cinemas, businesses, communities and nations.”
IIFA director Sabbas Joseph gave a presentation of the IIFA concept and the activities to be held throughout the IIFA weekend. These include business seminars, acting workshops with leading Indian film directors and actors, a celebrity cricket match and finally the film academy awards evening.
“IIFA has travelled to six countries across the world and has left a mark in the minds and hearts of the people. We are confident that the IIFA Weekend in Yorkshire will have the same impact”, said Sabbas Joseph, Director, IIFA.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sanjeev Aga, Managing Director, Idea Cellular, the lead sponsors of the Idea IIFA Awards said, “Idea is delighted to be associated with the IIFA movement and its journey to Yorkshire. Idea Cellular is a part of the Aditya Birla Group, which has had a very deep association with the UK over the years. We are keenly looking forward to the celebrations at the Idea IIFA Awards in June 2007.”
Supported by Prime Minister Tony Blair, Yorkshire was successful in its bid to attract the event organisers attention. Judith Donovan said: “Yorkshire is one of the premier locations in the UK and is delighted to be hosting the eighth year of the prestigious IIFA Weekend. It looks forward to opening its doors and welcoming film personalities, business stalwarts, eminent public figures of India and the rest of the world”.
The House of Commons launch event was followed by a five-city launch the next day in the company of the Mayors of York, Hull, Leeds, Sheffield and Bradford, who will flag off the IIFA Weekend announcement along with Mr. Amitabh Bachchan. The five-city launch will be held at the National Museum of Photography, Film and Television (NMPFT), Bradford.
Amitabh Bachchan was joined by dignitaries from Yorkshire Forward, the Yorkshire Tourism Board, Baroness Anne Taylor of Bolton and the directors from the International Indian Film Academy. Among those discussing the potential benefits of having the event on Yorkshire’s doorstep were Peter Wybenga and Amina Toher whose countries hosted the two previous IIFA Weekends in Amsterdam 2005 and Dubai 2006.
The UK and India have a long and profitable history of business relationships and the UK is India’s number one location for investment in Europe. The economic impact of the IIFA weekend is significant and will affect sectors such as hospitality, tourism, travel, telecommunications, television and above all the world of cinema.
Terry Hodgkinson, Chair of Yorkshire Forward, said: “The Indian economy is set to grow by 10% in the next 12 months alone and companies are looking to make investments overseas – especially in the UK. Hosting the awards will act as a catalyst to access the Indian market, forging stronger business and cultural links between our region and India.
“Today, Yorkshire is a vibrant, diverse and beautiful economic powerhouse. Our cities are poised to join the most famous and successful international locations and our people are seized with a rich sense of local pride and confidence.
Previous IIFA Weekend events have hosted some of the world’s major celebrities including Angelina Jolie, Jackie Chan, Shekhar Kapur, Ashok Amritraj, Jean Claude Van Damme, Bo Derek, Aishwarya Rai, Shah Rukh Khan and others. IIFA Weekend celebrations, which were launched at the Millennium Dome in 2000, have travelled across South Africa, Malaysia, Singapore, Amsterdam and Dubai. IIFA Weekend Yorkshire marks the return of the celebration which has already become one of the worlds most-watched and sought after event.
The IIFA Weekend Yorkshire is supported by Yorkshire Forward, Yorkshire Tourist Board, Star TV network and Idea Cellular Ltd. Elite Limousines and the Oulton Hall are some of the key partners who are helping set the stage for the mega celebration.
Friday, November 10, 2006
BiBC launches ReelMaster
BiBC launches ReelMaster to revolutionise showreel distribution - Stock libraries and content owners to make major savings through digital distribution -
BiBC is today launching a new product entitled ReelMaster™, a solution that will digitise the distribution processes of stock libraries and content owners. ReelMaster™ is set to revolutionise the previously time consuming and costly process of content owners retrieving and posting video tapes and DVDs to prospective purchasers. ReelMaster™ is available immediately.
ReelMaster™ enables the fast and secure digital distribution of new titles, showcases and archive material to prospective customers / reviewers. The range of material that can be digitally distributed is vast, from clips to full length feature films. Based on MediaMaster™, BiBC’s acclaimed media distribution platform, ReelMaster delivers to content owners their own digital showcase store, through which prospective purchasers can view and then download clips. ReelMaster is a managed service solution, with BiBC managing the end-to-end process of digitising content, through to secure distribution, meaning that there is no need for technological investment on behalf of the client.
ReelMaster™ has distinct advantages for both content owners and purchasers. Purchasers can benefit from the ability to browse and stream content to see if it is appropriate before purchase. Researchers and buyers simply type in the search term for the content they are looking for and are presented with all relevant pieces of video content. Samples can be viewed before the purchasers buy and download the content. The availability of digital clips means that purchasers do not have to wait for the post to come or pay for inappropriate clips, and are in full control of the selection process, 24/7.
With a minimal set-up fee and small monthly management fee, content owners can expect to rapidly see a tangible return on investment. The content owners also benefit from no longer having to manage the process. ReelMaster can also watermark content so that the showreels can be tracked and traced to ensure copyright remains intact.
Paul Hague, managing director of BiBC, commented: “It astonishes me that in the digital age in which we live, content owners are still distributing these reels manually, spending a fortune on transport costs, when the process lends itself to digitisation. Having talked to many content owners, the same message has been repeated over and over again – that tape distribution is an unnecessarily expensive and time-consuming process - and yet until now no other solution has been available to them. We are pleased to offer a digital solution that will save these companies both time and money, whilst improving the customer experience. ”
BiBC is today launching a new product entitled ReelMaster™, a solution that will digitise the distribution processes of stock libraries and content owners. ReelMaster™ is set to revolutionise the previously time consuming and costly process of content owners retrieving and posting video tapes and DVDs to prospective purchasers. ReelMaster™ is available immediately.
ReelMaster™ enables the fast and secure digital distribution of new titles, showcases and archive material to prospective customers / reviewers. The range of material that can be digitally distributed is vast, from clips to full length feature films. Based on MediaMaster™, BiBC’s acclaimed media distribution platform, ReelMaster delivers to content owners their own digital showcase store, through which prospective purchasers can view and then download clips. ReelMaster is a managed service solution, with BiBC managing the end-to-end process of digitising content, through to secure distribution, meaning that there is no need for technological investment on behalf of the client.
ReelMaster™ has distinct advantages for both content owners and purchasers. Purchasers can benefit from the ability to browse and stream content to see if it is appropriate before purchase. Researchers and buyers simply type in the search term for the content they are looking for and are presented with all relevant pieces of video content. Samples can be viewed before the purchasers buy and download the content. The availability of digital clips means that purchasers do not have to wait for the post to come or pay for inappropriate clips, and are in full control of the selection process, 24/7.
With a minimal set-up fee and small monthly management fee, content owners can expect to rapidly see a tangible return on investment. The content owners also benefit from no longer having to manage the process. ReelMaster can also watermark content so that the showreels can be tracked and traced to ensure copyright remains intact.
Paul Hague, managing director of BiBC, commented: “It astonishes me that in the digital age in which we live, content owners are still distributing these reels manually, spending a fortune on transport costs, when the process lends itself to digitisation. Having talked to many content owners, the same message has been repeated over and over again – that tape distribution is an unnecessarily expensive and time-consuming process - and yet until now no other solution has been available to them. We are pleased to offer a digital solution that will save these companies both time and money, whilst improving the customer experience. ”
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