NYIndieSeen

Movie Review: State of Play

2012-10-02T08:25:00.001-04:00

Grrr arggg, Don't you hate it when you've challenged your cocky ass hole friend to an old fashioned, Race ya to the end of the block style dash off?
He's huffing and puffing and right out of the gate you've got this douche beat.
You start off with a burst of energy that this, criss-crossed cardigan over chest, dick-wad can't possibly keep up with.
I mean the guys a drinker, you drink too but this guy goes heavy on the Jagger bombs.
The end of the block is just within your grasp, you can feel it, taste it. step on it dance around and laugh at his face when you reach it.
but you didn't see that pebble coming, that pebble that snuck its way into your path just as you were reaching the finish line.
The one that causes you to embarrassingly tumble down, face first to the ground.
and allows professor douche-meister with the developing beer belly and sky blue cardigan dangling behind him in the wind to steal the lead and win the race.

such is the state of State of Play. the new political thriller from director Kevin Macdonald.
oh it starts off so well, with the perfect blend of spy thriller action and political intrigue.
recapping plots is always rather tedious.. and I think a disservice to viewers, I mean the fun part about watching a flick is having it unfold before your eyes.
So I will give you bare minimum
Russel Crowe plays a seasoned reporter at a Washington newspaper, headed by a balls to the wall editor in Helen Mirren.
She's got pressure from the big bosses to turn a profit with the paper.
Ben Affleck is an up and coming political poster boy senator who has set his sites on taking down a large defense company with shady dealings, after one of the senators aides turns up dead questions are asked, secrets are spilled and Crowe is given the task of unravelling the story for the paper, did we mention however that Crowe and Affleck's characters are old college buddies, thus placing Crowe in the difficult position of having to choose between his integrity as a reporter or as a friend.

Based upon a six part television series, that aired on the BBC, Screenwriters: Billy Ray, Tony Gilroy and Michael Matthew Carnahan, pull off the balancing act of a terse political thriller and character drama, ignoring the obvious age differences between Affleck and Crowe,the casting works.
Crowe as the staunch weathered old school reporter works, Robin wright Penn as the Senators wife caught in the middle works and even Rachel Mcadams doing her best Lois Lane as an on-line division reporter works here .
The director has written a sort of hallmark card to journalism, with its get the story by any means necessary inter cut clips of coffee fueled all nighters and Sources "butter upping" (not really a word)
it seemingly gets it all right. until those last 10 minutes.
in what may be the only bad play by the director, we are subjected to not one but "two" twist endings. the problem is that only one of them really works.
the first spin at the end delivers.
Its intense , plausible and satisfying.
Had the film just closed up shop at that point we would have had a solid story on our hands.
but nooo, it had to get greedy.
That pebble in the way of my almost victory lap is a massive fossil that sends the whole story toppling down to a scraped knee.
The "real" ending seems to forced, and the way the wheels work for one of the characters to "uncover" this other twist?, well I'm just not buying it.
the film is still worth checking out.. but try and leave when you first think its over.

BRIDESMAIDS a film review by Maia

2011-05-23T00:56:00.008-04:00

Bridesmaids stars SNL cast member Kristen Wiig as Annie the down on her luck single gal whose best friend Lillian (former SNL cast member Maya Rudolph) suddenly and unexpectedly becomes engaged. At this point Annie still has yet to get her life in control. She attempted to open a bake shop, but due to the recession it failed. And with it's failure her passion for her job and life went with it. So she decides to settle in life. Her job as a sales clerk in a jewelry store is unfullfilling and frustrating. She has to sit back and watch all the young in love couples buy engagement rings as she sulks and makes snide comments and gives then the stink eye. Albeit unintentionally. She lives with not one but two roommates who are gross and intrusive and her love life is lackluster. She is reduced to a rich assholes booty call and of course he treats her like crap. And worst of all she allows it.
Annie's feelings over Lillian getting engaged are mixed with genuine joy for her friend, depression that her life hasn't taken the right turns to get her where she needs to be at this age in life , to resentment and anger that her position as best friend is being usurped by Lillian's new friend Helen (Rose Byrne). Helen desperately battles with Annie for the coveted position of maid of honor, and as a single, broke, woman in her 30's Annie feels that she can't measure up to the perfect, beautiful, rich trophy wife that Helen represents.The other bridesmaids that are included in the wedding is the wonderful but underused Wendi Mclendon-Covey, Ellie Kemper, and break-out star Melissa McCarthy as tough, unpolished Megan.
Other critics say that McCarthy steals the movie, but to me the one who clearly owns the film is Wiig. Who knew the girl had such range? She is able to portray bona fide emotions such as fear, insecurity, anger, and hopelessness but in a simple turn can crack you up with her sharp sarcastic wit and rubbery faced features. She is the true breakout star. Writing and co-producing a smart, heartfelt film about the bonds and love between women and their close friends. And most importantly casts women that are authentically talented and funny not just pretty faces or matinee idols.
If you've haven't seen this movie yet, go now!! As soon as you can! Do not wait for the DVD because this is best enjoyed in a theater with others. And don't worry guys this is no mere chick flick or boring, bland rom-com. You'll dig it too! Truthfully I haven't' laughed this hard at a film all year. If you don't like it then your funny bone is clearly broken.

Tirbeca Film Festival Shorts: The Dungeon Master reviewed by Maia

2011-05-09T23:03:00.004-04:00

Newcomer filmmakers Shiloh and Rider Strong (of Boy meets World fame) first short film shows a lot of promise. It opens with a couple of friends Shane and Cooper chatting about how much they used to love the role playing game Dungeons and Dragons in high school. Cooper says he knows a guy who is totally into the game and can be their dungeon master. So one night, they get a few friends together to play D&D. Maximilian the Dungeon Master arrives totally in character and dressed for the part wearing a floor length cape and of course his multi-sided die. The guys are not into the game as much as Maximilian and are clearly amused about how excited a grown man is to play D&D. However, this film takes an unexpected turn when the tone suddenly changes and Shane starts belittling and humiliating Maximilian because of his love and dedication to Dungeons and Dragons. Without wanting to give too much away I will say that the guys don't expect Maximilian to be as authentic a Dungeon Master as he is and has a surprise in store for them.
I found this movie to be pretty good but not great. The pacing is done well; however, the change of tone towards the end is a little abrupt and not without a lot of explanation. The ending was too open for my taste with no real resolution or feeling of closure, but it does leave you wanting to see more. If this short film were a part of a series or perhaps a full length film then it would have been a lot better. So to the Strong Brothers I say make this film into a mini series.

Tribecca Film Festival Shorts: Year Zero Reviewed by Maia

2011-04-26T19:12:00.007-04:00

In the very near future a "zombie" plague rages through New York City. The protaganist is trapped within his one bedroom apartment as chaos breaks loose just outside his doors. Being trapped inside he must confront the imminent threat of boredom, isolation, and starvation. Watching him I was wondering if he would escape his predicament as he slowly starts to lose his mind and become emaciated. A person can only go so long in total seclusion without any food before succumbing to hallucinations and physical weakness. Will he be a hero and face the monsters outside or give in to cowardice and hide within his apartment waiting for a cure and to be saved?
The good and the bad. The short film is pretty good but nothing new is explored. The pacing wasn't too bad considering it is completely told from a first person narrative and mostly takes place in one room. The running time of 23 minutes is enough time to tell the film without it getting too stale or old, but it is slightly predictable. As far as the "zombies" are concerned Year Zero alludes to the fact that these are not really zombies, or undead, but actually people being infected by a bacterial strain that transforms then into mindless, violent cannibals a la 28 days later.
However, as an avid zombie enthusiast I was thrilled to see a zombie flick set within New York City. We mostly see zombie flicks set within either the suburbs or in a desolate country setting. I'm more than positive this is all about budget restrictions as it would be too expensive to film withing the confines of New York(and no comments about I am Legend because those were vampire hybrids). So for this film animation can bring this story to life. The horrors of being trapped in a city of millions and millions of infected, as they come for you.

Scream 4! The premier in pictures.

2011-04-12T13:46:00.008-04:00

The Scream 4 premier rocked Hollywood last night. The mega event brought together Scream alumni and new faces alike. The premier streamed live on-line at 9:30 Eastern time, here's some of our fave pics from the star studded event.
Scream 4 hits theaters THIS FRIDAY people. Get into it!

Someones taken their love of Scream movies one step too far.

2011-04-10T16:08:00.005-04:00

I'm a pretty damn cool guy, I rock my leather jackets collar up. I wear my pants sagged down so that my stained polka-dot boxers peak out from underneath. I'm usually cold and aloof about my feelings, I sprinkle words like "totes" and "gnarly" into everyday conversation. I also (insert one more bad ass thing here) . Basically, I'm the coolest thing under the sun. But nothing brings the secret dork out of me like a Screa m movie.
Those damn Scream movies! It's the one series (X-men excluded) that can put me into full tilt Fan boy mode. I check the websites for the latest updates. I feed on production gossip like it sustains me and yes I even frequent the fan forums to dissect, argue and even countdown to the latest happenings of our beloved Woodsboro crew. I nerd out, I admit it. I've come to terms with it. Scream is the Star wars of horror films and I'm sleeping overnight at the ticket booth dressed as Princess Leia. Between Kevin Williamsons razor-sharp scripts, Wes Cravens brisk and tormenting at the drop of a dime eye, and a trio of characters I've grown to love, these films are cinematic crack.
The fascination started at 13, captivated by the commercials for this R rated film, that seemed so taboo and so painfully cool at the same time. Months after its initial run in theaters I was finally able to see it, (thank you early pay-per-view) It hooked me. It was the horror movie that was smarter than horror movies. These characters existed in our world. It was approachable horror and it opened the floodgates for my love of the genre, something I will always be grateful to the series for doing.
Riveting, Shocking and addicting all at once. Scream delivered!
When news of casting for the sequel began to leak, and I learned that my favorite ingénue at the time, Sarah michelle-gellar (Swans Crossing 4Life!) , and an actual black person would be in it, Jada Pinkett (giving Ms. Drew a run for her money) They had me, hook line and sinker.
After seeing scream 2 opening night (thanks mom), I was officially full on obsessed.
A sequel that in my opinion was better than the original!
Kevin Williamson became my god, and I discovered a new fascination with celluloid. It would surprise those who aren't fans of the series to know how many people of my generation the Scream films have inspired to become writers and filmmakers. There is an energy about the movies, a freshness that I liken to Tarantino’s early oeuvre.
Naturally, as Scream 3 reared it's head I devoured every new piece of information I could. Kevin Williamson was too busy, with his new television series Wasteland, to pen the third and reportedly final installment. So they brought in Ehren Krueger (the Ring, Arlington Road), to write the script, big mistake!. I won't recount all the hoopla and drama associated with this decision .. It’s been discussed ad-nauseum on-line, simply search "Scream 3 mess" . The Series suffered, Ehren just didn't get "it". The voice, the intelligence of the first two films was muffled by a cliché' ,Scooby doo mystery vibe. Scream 3 disappointed critically and was the least successful of the original trilogy. Scream had become what it was sent out to kill, what should have ended the Iconic series with a bang ended in a whimper.
Kevin Williamson, is Scream; period. That is why fans rejoiced when we'd learned that he would be returning for sole writing duties on Scream 4. The voice was back! Kevins idea for the 4th film was apparently so good it convinced the ever weary star of the Scream films Neve Campbell, Wes Craven, Courtney Cox and David Arquette to return Everyone was back.
Now 11 years after Scream 3, an excitement that I have not felt for the release of a film since , well the third one, has returned. Stronger than ever. I'm trolling the forums. I'm buying the Limited edition magazine covers and Dammit I'm counting down till the release of this epic series. (there are red X’s on my wall calendar if you wanna take a look). Will it be worth the wait? Early test screenings have been incredibly positive, most reviews calling it the best of all the sequels... seeing as how much I loved Scream 2, that's saying a hell of a lot. With a fresh new cast that includes Alison brie, Emma Roberts, Hayden Pantierre, Adam Brody, Veronica Mars, and a bunch of actresses from CW shows that I'm too old to watch, buzz is deafening for Scream 4, and I'm not ashamed to admit that if you listen close enough, you can hear my voice among them.
Scream 4 comes out April 15th!

Tribeca Cinemas Screenings This Week

2011-04-05T22:48:00.004-04:00

April 2011 Events at Tribeca Cinemas As we wait for Spring to arrive, Tribeca Cinemas springs itself into the new season with some great upcoming events. This month also marks the 10th Tribeca Film Festival. Be sure to scroll down to check out what's coming up, and for more information about when and how to get your Festival tickets and official swag.

April 5th & 19th: THE KOREAN CULTURAL SERVICE SCREENINGS

Everyone knows all about Japanese animation, but what do we know about Korean? There are stories about North Korean animation sweatshops employed to work on The Lion King and The Simpsons and there’s the fact that most television animation in the 90’s was drawn in Korea, but since 1967, South Korea has been releasing its own animated films that are almost never shown in the United States. After the glut of Korean animation in the 90’s things died down but recently there has been a new explosion of talent and experimental techniques that are once again putting Korean animation on the world stage.

Tuesday, April 5 @ 7:00 pm

WHAT IS NOT ROMANCE (2009)Directed by Hong Eun-ji, Park Jae-ok, and Soo KyoungA surprisingly moving animated film, WHAT IS NOT ROMANCE is all about a middle aged couple approaching their anniversary and it’s as tender, delicate and subtle as the best arthouse movie. Tensions are rising, dinner table conversation is nonexistent and all their romance seems dead. Leaping backwards in time it returns to the beginning of their marriage when they were head over heels in love with each other and traces it to the present when they barely talk and tries to see if there’s any way for a couple married for years to get back to the way things were.What is not Romance trailer at Animation Insider

Tuesday, April 19 @ 7:00 pmAUDITION (2008)

What line-up of Korean animation would be complete without a glitzy, gaudy, crowd-pleasing anime-style manhwa (Korean manga) adaptation? Based on the most popular manhwa of the late 90’s, AUDITION is a teen-girl-ready romance about four dudes, all misfits, who form a rock band. All the main characters are already licensed products in Korea and this feature film version of their well-known story took 8 years to make. It’s pure pop culture cream cheese: smooth and delicious.Admission is free, and is based on a first come first serve basis.

For questions call 212-759-9550.

For more information and the screening schedule click HERE

April 7th: THE NEW YORK WILD FILM FESTIVALA WILD preview event -- The New York WILD Film Festival, is the first annual documentary film festival in New York to assemble the best films about the wild world around us. These carefully selected films from around the world will cover a spectrum of wild topics, from exploration and adventure to wildlife and conservation environment. The festival celebrates the filmmakers who - through the power of their images and storytelling - promote awareness, educate, and inspire interest in protecting the natural world around us.

For more information check out http://www.nywildfilmfestival.com/. April 12th: TELLING AMY'S STORYTHE MAYOR’S FUND TO ADVANCE NEW YORK CITY and the NYC MAYOR’S OFFICE TO COMBAT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE present a special screening of “Telling Amy’s Story”Telling Amy’s Story is a documentary film chronicling the experience of a victim of domestic violence. It is a public service media project made possible by Verizon Wireless HopeLine and the Verizon Foundation.

A panel discussion with distinguished guests will follow. Light refreshments will be served. Space is very limited. RSVP to 212-788-7794 or email fund@cityhall.nyc.govAngel Supporter: $250 (priority seating) Ticket: $100Please note that 100% of ticket sales and donations are fully tax deductible to the extent provided by law.For more information or to donate to the fund, visit www.nyc.gov/fund.

April 19th: STAINSSTAINS

is a Saidiana Productions feature length documentary confronting the challenges the formerly incarcerated and their families face. The film allows a perspective through dual lenses and focuses on the impact of social disinvestment in prisoners, their families and communities. The need to connect society around this crisis is the driving force behind the production of STAINS. Lou Myers, an Audalco award winner, Broadway, film and television star who is best known for his role as the irascible ‘Mr. Gaines’ in A Different World”, narrates. Grammy nominated storyteller, Diane Ferlatte serves as the voice of the voiceless. America can no longer look away and say ‘they’ got what they deserved. America can no longer live by the ‘we’ versus ‘they’ code of ethics. America can no longer hide behind the refrain of that old familiar standard - ‘it’s not our responsibility’. We can no longer rationalize our inhumanity. While it may not be America’s responsibility – it is our duty – we are our brother’s keeper and when we don’t live by that code, we suffer - by ignoring it. This is a film whose time has come – don’t miss it!Join us for the premiere on April 19 at 7:00 PM and 9:45 PM. Free admission. There are no reserved seats – first come first serve. For more information, please visit the website at http://www.stainsthemovie.com/ or e-mail at stainsthemovie@aol.com

April 20th - May 1st: TRIBECA FILM FESTIVAL

Tickets go on sale beginning April 12 to American Express Cardmembers, April 17 to downtown residents, and April 18 to the general public. Discount ticket packages will be available to help customize your Festival experience, or buy a Festival pass and not worry about single tickets to access screenings and panel discussions. The new line-up of Official TFF Merchandise is now on sale online, or visit one of the retail outlet locations throughout Festival venues and events. Go to Tribecafilm.com to find out more about everything happening in and around the Festival. To keep track of all 2011 Tribeca Film Festival announcements, follow us on Twitter and become a fan on Facebook.

You can also register for My Tribeca and sign up for the weekly newsletter.COMING SOON May 4th - 8th: NY INDIAN FILM FESTIVAl 11th ANNUAL IAAC FILM FESTIVALSAVE THE DATES!! New York Indian Film Festival Eleventh Annual IAAC Film Festival May 4-8, 2011

The Indo-American Arts Council is a 501 ©3 not-for-profit arts organization passionately dedicated to promoting, showcasing and building an awareness of artists of Indian origin in the performing arts, visual arts, literary arts and folk arts. For more information please visit http://iaac.us/nyiff2011/

May 13th - 14th: THE BOSNIAN-HERZEGOVINIAN FILM FESTIVAL

March 15th is the official call for entries deadline! Click HERE to download the official press release.  For more information and to purchase tickets, visit http://www.bhffnyc.org/ UPCOMING FILM FESTIVALSTribeca Cinemas will be the home to a variety of film festivals next year. Keep checking TribecaCinemas.com for all of our exciting upcoming festivals. For up to date information, and how to purchase tickets, be sure to bookmark tribecacinemas.com.

Tribeca Cinemas is a classic downtown venue located on the northern tip of Tribeca, just 10 minutes from Midtown. Perfectly suited and conveniently located for film premieres, screenings, cocktail parties, dinners, corporate meetings and presentations, receptions, personal affairs and celebrations, holiday parties and so much more. Fully equipped with ground-floor access, outdoor signage opportunities, two theaters and an adjacent reception space, which features a full bar and kitchen as well as a talented team of in-house event producers. Tribeca Cinemas is a multi-functional venue for a wide array of events. Continue to check in for updates at the Tribeca Cinemas website and stay up to date with our year-round schedule of events. www.TribecaCinemas.com

TFF TO CLOSE 10th EDITION WITH EDWARD BURNS’ NEWLYWEDS

2011-03-31T09:56:00.000-04:00

The Tribeca Film Festival (TFF), presented by American Express,

announced today it will close its 10th edition with the world premiere of Edward Burns’ Newlyweds. The

film will premiere Saturday, April 30, at BMCC TPAC.

Newlyweds is the tenth film written and directed by Ed Burns and the sixth to premiere at TFF. Burns,

who wrote, directed and stars in Newlyweds, has had a strong connection with TFF since its founding. Ash

Wednesday world premiered as part of the inaugural TFF lineup in 2002, and Looking for Kitty, Purple

Violets and Nice Guy Johnny have also been Festival premieres over subsequent years.

The film, shot almost exclusively in New York City’s TriBeCa neighborhood, is a chronicle of modern

marriage, pointing out an essential truth: When you get married, you’re not just getting a husband or

wife—you’re getting the family, the friends, and even the exes. With crackling humor and sharp insights

into contemporary relationships, Burns tracks a newly wedded couple whose honeymoon period is

upended by the arrival of the husband’s wild-child baby sister and the crumbling marriage of the wife’s

meddlesome sister. The cast includes Burns, Caitlin Fitzgerald, Max Baker, Marsha Dietlein Bennett and

Kerry Bishé. Burns produced the film with producing partner Aaron Lubin and William Rexer. Mike

Harrop served as executive producer.

“There is no better way to close this year’s festival than with this film, Newlyweds by Edward Burns,”

said Nancy Schafer, Executive Director of TFF. “He is one of Tribeca’s best friends. He lives in our

community, and this film, which is exceptional and may very well be his best, was both shot in the

neighborhood and captures the zeitgeist of a community and its relationships that is intimate and fun and

so true. Closing night will be like coming home for all of us.”

“Tribeca is my home in every sense—it’s where I live, and it’s also the place where I have been so proud

to show my work,” said Burns. “And from the beginning, the Festival has been a wonderful place for me

to showcase my films and enjoy the kinds of conversations that I love as a filmmaker and a New Yorker.”

The 10th annual Tribeca Film Festival will take place from April 20 through May 1, 2011.

Whatever happened to …………….Mario Van Peebles? By Maia Morgan

2011-03-30T22:33:00.006-04:00

In an offhand conversation I was having with my roommate one day the movie Panther came up. He mentioned he had never seen the movie before. I haven't seen it since college and decided to refresh my memory. So hence a screening of the movie was to take place in our home about a week later. Upon viewing the movie I was struck with strong, powerful images of Black characters and thoroughly enjoyed a movie with fine acting and a great story. That got me to thinking whatever happened to Mario Van Peebles? As the director of Panther he gave new eyes to the Black Panther Party movement in Oakland, CA for those of us too young to have experienced those events firsthand. He had movie star good looks and directed some great flicks in the 90s. So where is he?

In the 90’s he was one of the premiere black directors to tell stories of inner city drug abuse and distress with his feature film directorial debut New Jack City. The film was hit and catapulted Wesley Snipes’ career. Posse followed shortly thereafter and it played a lot like a classic Sergio Leone spaghetti western. A Black soldier of the Spanish American war goes AWOL to avenge his lynched reverend father with the rest of his predominantly black infantry in tow. The most I remember about this movie was that it was a fun cowboy flick and very refreshing to see the portrayal of Black Cowboys due to the lack of their presence in films, TV, and history books. Panther was his follow up film and was basically a commercial flop. See it anyway if you haven’t. It tells and amazing powerful story and has a great cast with a lot of unexpected cameos. Solo was his next big film to follow and I’ll point out he was merely the star not the director. This was a very big miss. It was one of the most boring “action” films I’ve ever seen.( Anytime someone is playing a robot it really seems like they can’t act. That kind of thing is best left to Arnold.) But I thought surely if anything was to turn his career around it would have been Badassssss!, which was the film he directed and starred in playing his father Melvin Van Peebles as he attempted to film and distribute his birth to the blaxploitaion era Sweet Sweetback’s Badassss Song. The movie was a small scale independent film and didn’t fare too well at the box office despite its critical praise.

I looked up his info on IMDB and it seems Mr. Van Peebles is a much busier man than I gave him credit for. He merely made the transition to TV directing episodes of Damages, Law and Order and even an episode of Lost to include just some of his credits. He had made sporadic TV appearances in television and films but I wish he would get back in the director’s seat for more films. He had an honest voice and gave us positive, intelligent Black characters you don’t always get to see in films nowadays, if you do see any black characters. Come back Mario!!! Tyler Perry cannot be the only one doing black films.

Panel Schedules Updated!

2011-03-23T16:08:00.000-04:00

2011 FESTIVAL INTRODUCES NEW TRIBECA TALKS: DIRECTORS SERIES IN CELEBRATION OF THE TENTH FESTIVAL WITH MARTIN SCORSESE AND SOULEYMANE CISSÉ, BRIAN WILLIAMS AND ROBERT DE NIRO,

ALEC BALDWIN AND DOUG LIMAN

***

Tribeca Talks Showcases Five New Documentary Titles with Accompanying Panels with Sean Penn, Harry Belafonte, and Others, and Features World Premiere of Interactive Crime Thriller L.A. Noire, With Panel Exploring Crossover

between the Film and Gaming Industries

***

Academy Award® Winners Ron Howard, Brian Grazer, and Akiva Goldsman Recall the Art and Science of A Beautiful Mind At Special 10th Anniversary Screening and Discussion

New York, NY [March 23, 2011] – The 2011 Tribeca Film Festival (TFF), presented by American Express®, today announced its lineup for the 2011 Special Events and Tribeca Talks® panel series. The component programs are “Tribeca Talks: After the Movie,” “Tribeca Talks: Industry,” “Tribeca Talks: Pen to Paper, hosted by Barnes & Noble,” the Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival panel, and new this year, in celebration of the tenth Festival, the “Tribeca Talks: Directors Series,” featuring one-on-one conversations with acclaimed filmmakers, plus the premiere of five new documentary films and a one-of-a-kind videogame-film event.

This year, Tribeca’s annual panel series, a collection of special events, conversations and audience Q&A’s designed to spark a richer dialogue about film, has expanded to include the “Tribeca Talks: Directors Series.” The series invites audiences to join entertainment industry icons from Brian Williams to Alec Baldwin to Martin Scorsese as they moderate discussions with noted industry figures such as actor-producer and Tribeca co-founder Robert De Niro and acclaimed directors Doug Liman and Souleymane Cissé, respectively. The Festival also unveiled five new documentary titles – The Education of Dee Dee Ricks; Love Hate Love; Off the Rez; Grandma, A Thousand Times; and Sing Your Song – which will receive exclusive screenings as part of the “Tribeca Talks: After the Movie” series. Another one-of-a-kind world premiere event will be the screening and examination of L.A. Noire, a new interactive crime thriller being released in the spring by Rockstar Games.

The Tribeca Talks panel series will bring film enthusiasts together with some of the biggest name directors, actors and industry leaders to explore topics from multi-platform filmmaking to financing to the role of women in film. This year’s participants include Academy Award®-winning actors Robert De Niro and Sean Penn, Academy Award®-winning directors Martin Scorsese, Ron Howard and Alex Gibney, filmmaker Doug Liman, Alec Baldwin, Kelly Ripa, war photographer Greg Marinovich, and industry leaders ESPN, Rockstar Games and more. The Tribeca Talks panel series is open to the public and will take place throughout TFF, which will run from April 20 to May 1, 2011 in lower Manhattan.

Also part of “Tribeca Talks: After the Movie” are the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation’s presentation of the 10th anniversary screening and panel discussion of A Beautiful Mind, Universal Pictures’ Academy Award®-winning masterpiece from director Ron Howard, and an exclusive preview of Rockstar Games’ new digital state-of-the-art crime thriller, L.A. Noire, followed by a special Q&A exploring the cinematic elements of filmmaking that have crossed over into interactive entertainment. The L.A. Noire Q&A will follow a live demonstration of the new detective game where players solve complex, historically-inspired crimes in a beautifully recreated and fully interactive rendition of 1947 Los Angeles. Tribeca’s special events and discussions series is rounded out by the Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival screening and discussion on Alex Gibney’s Catching Hell, about notorious Chicago Cubs fan Steve Bartman; the free “Tribeca Talks: Industry” panels, designed for industry professionals to explore the ways they can use new digital platforms to advance their film projects; and free “Tribeca Talks: Pen to Paper” panels hosted by Barnes & Noble, which focus on the artistic process of screenwriting.

“We wanted to celebrate our Tenth Festival by inviting some of the finest filmmakers, media artists and actors of our time to share their insights and experiences through our Tribeca Talks” series said Nancy Schaefer Executive Director of TFF. “We have over the years established a tradition of conversations that both engage audiences in the details and revelations of contemporary film making as well as offer a perspective as to the direction and the future of storytelling and the industry. This is so much a part of what festivals can do to enrich the viewing experience for their audiences and we are proud to present this special series.”

“Tribeca Talks: Directors Series” will include one-on-one conversations with:

Tribeca Film Festival Co-founder and Academy Award®-winning actor Robert De Niro, interviewed by Brian Williams.

Blockbuster filmmaker Doug Liman (The Bourne Identity) interviewed by Academy Award® nominee and multiple Emmy Award winner Alec Baldwin.

Souleymane Cissé, Malian filmmaker and first filmmaker of African descent to win a major award at the Cannes Film Festival, interviewed by legendary director Martin Scorsese.

“Tribeca Talks: After the Movie” will include:

· The Alfred P. Sloan Foundation presents a 10th anniversary screening of Universal Pictures’ Academy Award®-winning film A Beautiful Mind from director Ron Howard that examines the life of Nobel Prize-winning mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr.; followed by a conversation that includes director Ron Howard, producer Brian Grazer, screenwriter Akiva Goldsman, the film’s math consultant, Dave Bayer, author Sylvia Nasar, whose book inspired the film, and theoretical physicist and mathematician Brian Greene. Moderated by NPR’s Ira Flatow.

· The world premiere of The Education of Dee Dee Ricks, a documentary showing how a successful businesswoman and mother’s life changed when, after being diagnosed with breast cancer, she set out to make life easier for less fortunate cancer patients; followed by a conversation with Dee Dee Ricks, producer Lisa Cohen, Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention founder Harold P. Freeman MD, and public health advocates. Moderated by the film’s director, Perri Peltz.

· The North American premiere of Grandma, A Thousand Times, a documentary examining a family matriarch as she struggles to cope with the silence of her once-buzzing house and imagines what waits her beyond death. Hosted by the Doha Tribeca Film Festival, where the film captured the Audience Award for Best Documentary Film in 2010, the screening will be followed by a discussion with director Mahmoud Kaabour and others on the experience of making films in the Middle East.

· The world premiere of Love Hate Love, an inspirational documentary that examines the difficult journeys of three families torn apart by three separate acts of terrorism: the attacks on the World Trade Center, the London bus bombing and the Sari Club bombing in Bali; followed by a conversation with executive producer Sean Penn, directors Dana Nachman and Don Hardy as well family members featured in the film: Liz Alderman, Steve Alderman, Esther Hyman, and Ben Tullipan.

· The New York premiere of The Loving Story, a documentary recounting the unknown love story of Mildred and Richard Loving, the couple behind the 1967 Supreme Court ruling overturning anti-miscegenation laws in the United States; followed by a discussion with director Nancy Buirski, attorney Phil Hirschkop, who represented the Lovings, Anthony Romero, Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union, and others as they discuss this landmark case and current issues surrounding race and marriage equality.

· The world premiere of Off the Rez, a documentary following Shoni Schimmel, a Umatilla Indian and one of the best high school basketball players in the country, whose hoop dreams of being the first from her tribe to get a college scholarship are threatened after her family leaves the Umatillia Indian Reservation; followed by a conversation with executive producers Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, director Jonathan Hock, Discovery and TLC Networks president Eileen O’Neill, and others. Moderated by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Friday Night Lights, Buzz Bissinger.

· The world premiere of Revenge of the Electric Car, a look behind the closed doors of Nissan, General Motors and Tesla Motors as they race to develop the world’s first and most economically accessible electric car; followed by a discussion with director Chris Paine, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nissan Motor Co. Carlos Ghosn, Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk, and Pulitzer Prize-winning Wall Street Journal columnist Dan Neil. Moderated by actor, writer, and director David Duchovny.

· An interactive demonstration from Rockstar Games’ groundbreaking videogame L.A. Noire, to be followed by a Q&A about the videogame, the technology behind it, and narrative and action in this medium, moderated by Tribeca Enterprises chief creative officer Geoffrey Gilmore.

· New York premiere of Sing Your Song, a stirring documentary that examines legendary entertainer Harry Belafonte’s continued humanitarian contributions to the arts, the U.S. Civil Rights Movement, the fight against Apartheid, combating starvation in Ethiopia and more; followed by a conversation with Harry Belafonte. Moderated by noted broadcaster Tavis Smiley.

· Screenings of 11 short films exploring the contributions of women filmmakers in the canon of the American experimental avant-garde. This program also celebrates 15 years of direct financial support for preservation of historically under-recognized films by women through the Women’s Film Preservation Fund of New York Women in Film & Television; followed by a discussion with an eclectic group of women filmmakers who helped shape avant-garde cinema.

“Tribeca Talks: Industry” will feature:

Digital by Design, a conversation with producers, filmmakers, SAP and industry executives about the emergence of online digital platforms and applications that provoke filmmakers to confront technology head-on including funding models, intellectual property management and distribution channels. Sponsored by SAP. Panelists include Richard Whittington, senior vice president of media and entertainment at SAP, and writer/director Edward Burns, and others.

· Shooting Film on a Budget, sponsored by Kodak. One of the most important aspects of realizing your independent feature is determining the right look. How will you capture your images and bring the script to the screen in a meaningful, visual way? Filmmakers and cinematographers must consider many variables: mood of the story, production restrictions, post workflow, etc. Too often these important decisions are determined by the bottom line. However, many filmmakers are able to get the most out of their budgets while still shooting film. Join Kodak and Michael Cuesta, writer/director of Roadie, producer Karen Chien, and others to learn how they create beautiful and cost-effective cinematic narratives on film.

The Business of Entertainment, sponsored by Bloomberg. This new program will explore the issues and trends that affect the economics of the film business and the broader entertainment industry. This year's panel will convene leading CEOs, producers, financiers, media, and other industry leaders who will focus on how to finance films in the 21st century.

Are Documentary Films Changing the World? A discussion with filmmakers, distributors and community groups about the new trend in documentary filmmaking of collaboration between filmmakers and NGOs to increase distribution and influence public perception and policy. Panelists include filmmaker and activist Abigail Disney, and director of Give Up Tomorrow Michael Collins, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Impact Partners Dan Cogan, and others.

Amplify the Message: Social Media, a conversation examining how film producers and directors engage new interactive audiences through such networks as Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, GetGlue and Foursquare, and how much of an impact social networking has on a movie’s success or failure on multiple platforms. Moderated by Marc Schiller, CEO and Founder of Electric Artists. Panelists include Rider Strong, director/screenwriter of The Dungeon Master, Howard Tullman, President & CEO of Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy, and others. The conversation will be streamed live on the Tribeca Online Film Festival website: tribecaonline.com.

Meet the Documentary Broadcasters, a conversation with industry broadcasters about the type of nonfiction films they’re drawn to and thoughts on where this genre is headed. Panelists include Sheila Nevins, President, HBO Documentary Films; Anna Miralis, Editor, True Stories, Channel 4 Documentaries; Connor Schell, Executive Producer, ESPN Films, and others.

“Tribeca Talks: Pen to Paper hosted by Barnes & Noble” will include:

Based on True Events, a discussion with writers who turn true events into a screenplay that will explore the line between a great narrative film and the truth of the events. Panelists include director and screenwriter of The Bang Bang Club Steven Silver, photographer and co-author of The Bang Bang Club: Snapshots from a Hidden War Greg Marinovich, Adam Kassen and Mark Kassen, directors of Puncture, and Chris Lopata, screenwriter of Puncture.

In Conversation with Peter Bart, a conversation looking back to filmmaking in the 1970s between author and Variety editorial director Peter Bart and Tribeca Enterprises chief creative officer Geoffrey Gilmore. From the larger-than-life personalities and conflicts that resulted in some of the most acclaimed films of a generation, to the funny anecdotes that captured the world, Bart and Gilmore will look back at a time that changed how stories were told. Bart will also sign copies of his new memoir Infamous Players: A Tale of Movies, The Mob, (And Sex) about his time running Paramount Pictures alongside Robert Evans and overseeing films such as The Godfather, Love Story and Harold and Maude.

Writing Documentary, a dialogue with filmmakers about the difficulties of writing a script for a documentary film and the challenges they face once production begins. Panelists include David Gelb, director of Jiro Dreams of Sushi, Maria Ramström, director of Love Always, Carolyn, and others.

In addition, the Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival will present:

The world premiere of Catching Hell, a documentary that explores the relationship between Chicago Cubs fans and Steve Bartman following his infamous near-catch of a foul ball in Game 6 of the 2003 National League Championship Series; followed by a conversation director Alex Gibney, who will discuss the psychology of die-hard sports fans and the phenomenon of scapegoating. Sponsored by Time Warner Cable.

And a special Tribeca Talks event:

· Youth Radicalization Redefined: With 60 percent of the world under the age of 30 and a majority of those “at risk” —either socially, economically, or both—there is an oversupply of young people susceptible to recruitment by extremist, religious, or ideological groups. Violent extremism is one of the world’s most vexing challenges. TFF, Google Ideas, and the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) will present a discussion involving six former extremists who have renounced violence and are working together to promote a sense of community and youth education. The aim is to provide a forum for high school students and their parents to identify signs of recruitment and the subsequent dangers of radicalization The conversation will be moderated by Jared Cohen, director of Google Ideas and a CFR adjunct fellow.

The full schedule for the 2011 Tribeca Talks series follows:

“Tribeca Talks: Directors Series”

Robert De Niro with Brian Williams

Tribeca Film Festival Co-founder and Academy Award®-winning actor Robert De Niro will be interviewed by Brian Williams

DATE: Saturday, April 23

TIME: 3:00 PM

LOCATION: BMCC

Doug Liman with Alec Baldwin

Blockbuster filmmaker and television producer Doug Liman will be interviewed by Alec Baldwin

DATE: Tuesday, April 26

TIME: 6:00 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

Souleymane Cissé with Martin Scorsese

Souleymane Cissé, Malian filmmaker and first filmmaker of African descent to win a major award at the Cannes Film Festival, will be interviewed by Academy Award®-winning director Martin Scorsese

DATE: Friday, April 29

TIME: 4:00 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

“Tribeca Talks: After the Movie”

Revenge of the Electric Car

Directed by Chris Paine. (USA) – World Premiere.

Behind the closed doors of Nissan, General Motors, and Tesla Motors, the race is on to develop the world’s first, and most economically accessible, electric car. Director Chris Paine’s energetic and beautifully shot follow-up to Who Killed The Electric Car? follows the innovative business models engineered by CEOs and independent entrepreneurs looking to jump-start the global resurgence of electric cars and win over a skeptical public.

After the Movie: Join director Chris Paine, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nissan Motor Co. Carlos Ghosn, Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk, and Pulitzer Prize-winning Wall Street Journal columnist Dan Neil for a conversation about the global resurgence of electric cars. Moderated by actor, writer, and director David Duchovny.

DATE: Saturday, April 23

TIME: 5:00 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Grandma, A Thousand Times

Directed by Mahmoud Kaabour. (United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Lebanon) – North American Premiere.

Teta Fatima is the 83-year-old matriarch of the Kaabour family and the sharp-witted queen bee of an old Beiruti quarter. This playful magical-realist documentary looks at Fatima’s larger-than-life character as she struggles to cope with the silence of her once-buzzing house and imagines what awaits her beyond death. Hosted by the Doha Tribeca Film Festival.

After the Movie: Doha Tribeca Film Festival is pleased to invite New York audiences to celebrate Arab cinema with a special screening of the 2010 DTFF Audience Award Winner for Best Documentary followed by a panel discussion on the experience of making films in the Middle East with director Mahmoud Kaabour and others.

DATE: Monday, April 25

TIME: 3:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

L.A. Noire

Produced and developed by Rockstar Games and Team Bondi (Australia, UK, USA) – World Premiere.

L.A. Noire is a violent crime thriller that blends breathtaking action with true detective work to deliver an unprecedented interactive experience. Interrogate witnesses, search for clues, and chase down suspects as you struggle to find the truth in a city where everyone has something to hide.

After the Movie: Join us for a conversation about the video game, the technology behind it, and narrative and action in this medium. Moderated by Rockstar Games and Geoffrey Gilmore, Chief Creative Officer of Tribeca Enterprises.

DATE: Monday, April 25

TIME: 5:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Love Hate Love

Directed by Dana Nachman and Don Hardy. (USA) – World Premiere.

Countless lives were shattered by three separate acts of terrorism: the attacks on the World Trade Center and bombings in the London Underground and Bali. This inspirational documentary tracks the difficult journeys of three families torn apart by these events as they struggle to pick up the pieces, build legacies of loved ones lost, and make sure love triumphs over hatred.

After the Movie: Join us for a conversation with executive producer Sean Penn and directors Dana Nachman and Don Hardy along with family members featured in the film: Liz Alderman, Steve Alderman, Esther Hyman, and Ben Tullipan as they discuss the importance of making movies that lead to social action.

DATE: Tuesday, April 26

TIME: 5:30 PM

LOCATION: BMCC

Off the Rez

Directed by Jonathan Hock. (USA) – World Premiere.

Shoni Schimmel, a Umatilla Indian and one of the best high school basketball players in the country, dreams of being the first from her tribe to get a college scholarship. Shoni and her mother/coach Ceci battle together to redeem generations of struggle for their family and their people, but her hoop dreams are threatened after her family leaves the Umatilla Indian Reservation.

After the Movie: Join director Jonathan Hock, executive producers Kelly Ripa and Mark Consuelos, and Eileen O'Neill, Group President of Discovery & TLC Networks, and others for a discussion about the pressures on elite high school athletes and Shoni Schimmel's challenging journey as a Native American female athlete into the college sports arena. Moderated by Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author of Friday Night Lights, Buzz Bissinger.

DATE: Tuesday, April 26

TIME: 6:30PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

The Loving Story

Directed by Nancy Buirski. (USA) – New York Premiere.

Nancy Buirski’s moving, evocative documentary recounts the unknown love story of Mildred and Richard Loving, the couple behind the 1967 Supreme Court ruling overturning anti-miscegenation laws in the United States. Drawing from a wealth of stunning archival footage, The Loving Story recreates a seminal moment in history in uncommon style, anchoring a timely message of marriage equality in a personal, human love story.

After the Movie: Join director Nancy Buirski, attorney Phil Hirschkop, who represented the Lovings, Anthony Romero, Executive Director of the American Civil Liberties Union, and others as they discuss this landmark case and the current issues surrounding race and marriage equality.

DATE: Wednesday, April 27

TIME: 5:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Sing Your Song

A Film by Susanne Rostock. (USA) – New York Premiere.

Most people know the lasting legacy of Harry Belafonte, the entertainer. But, as Sing Your Song proves in a most stirring way, Belafonte has had a significant and lasting impact on the ongoing worldwide struggle for human rights. This powerful documentary reveals Belafonte’s multifaceted contributions to the arts, the U.S. Civil Rights movement, the fight against Apartheid, ending starvation in Ethiopia, and much more.

After the Movie: Join us for a conversation with Harry Belafonte. Moderated by noted broadcaster Tavis Smiley.

DATE: Friday, April 29

TIME: 6:00 PM

LOCATION: BMCC

A Beautiful Mind

Ten years ago, Universal Pictures’ A Beautiful Mind made Nobel Prize-winning mathematician John Forbes Nash Jr. a household name. This stunning portrait of a brilliant but troubled man won four Academy Awards® and gave audiences an insider’s look into the unique world of mathematics. On its 10th anniversary, we salute A Beautiful Mind for its powerful filmmaking, fine performances, and intriguing subject. Sponsored by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation.

After the Movie: Join us for a conversation moderated by NPR’s Ira Flatow featuring special guests from science and screen including A Beautiful Mind’s Oscar®-winning filmmakers—director Ron Howard, producer Brian Grazer, and screenwriter Akiva Goldsman—as well as its math consultant, Dave Bayer, author Sylvia Nasar, whose book inspired the film, and theoretical physicist and mathematician Brian Greene. Panelists will discuss the film’s exploration of scientific and mathematical concepts and the challenges and rewards of portraying them on-screen.

DATE: Saturday, April 30

TIME: 3:00 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

Independent Women: 15 Years of NYWIFT-Funded Film Preservation

Dating from 1950 to 1984, these 11 short films contain experimental narratives, personal documentaries, and abstract animation from the likes of Mary Ellen Bute, Storm de Hirsch, Faith Hubley, and Marie Menken, as well as contemporary voices of living female artists. Asserting the contributions of women filmmakers in the canon of the American experimental avant-garde, this program also celebrates 15 years of direct financial support for preservation of historically under-recognized films by women through the Women’s Film Preservation Fund of New York Women in Film & Television.

After the Movie: Join us for a conversation with an eclectic group of women filmmakers who helped shape avant-garde cinema. Panelists to include: directors Liane Brandon, Lisa Crafts, Barbara Hammer, Jane Aaron, Bette Gordon, Caroline Mouris, as well as Cecile Starr, Bute films curator/collector, animator Emily Hubley, and Tribeca Film Festival Experimental Film Programmer Jon Gartenberg. Moderated by Drake Stutesman, Co-Chair of The Women’s Film Preservation Fund and Editor, Framework: The Journal of Cinema and Media

DATE: Saturday, April 30

TIME: 7pm

LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

The Education of Dee Dee Ricks

Directed by Perri Peltz. (USA) – World Premiere

Dee Dee Ricks was living her dream—she had a successful business, two beautiful kids, and a whirlwind social life as one of New York’s elite. Then, at age 39, breast cancer changed her world. Director Perri Peltz candidly tracks the emotional rebirth of a survivor determined to help make life easier for less fortunate cancer patients even as she undergoes her own grueling treatment.

After the Movie: Join Dee Dee Ricks, producer Lisa Cohen, president and founder of the Ralph Lauren Center for Cancer Care and Prevention Harold P. Freeman M.D., and public health advocates as they discuss the issue of breast cancer treatment for the poor and uninsured. Moderated by Perri Peltz.

DATE: Sunday, May 1

TIME: 3:00 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 1

“Tribeca Talks: Industry”

Amplify the Message: Social Media

Twitter, Facebook, Tumblr, GetGlue, Foursquare. Social media has changed the way we interact with the world around us. These days, filmmakers don’t just need a press kit and a Web site; they need a social media presence. How should producers and directors engage with this new interactive audience and how much of an impact does this audience have on a movie’s success or failure on multiple platforms? Join us for a candid discussion on the importance of this growing medium. Moderated by Marc Schiller, CEO and Founder of Electric Artists. Panelists include Rider Strong, director/screenwriter The Dungeon Master, Howard Tullman, President & CEO of Tribeca Flashpoint Media Arts Academy, and others. Panel will be streamed live on the Tribeca Online Film Festival website: tribecaonline.com

DATE: Friday, April 22

TIME: 2:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Meet the Documentary Broadcasters

Documentaries are more popular than ever. Today they are being watched on every platform and networks are filling up their slots with a wide array of topics to meet with the demands of a growing audience. Hear from Sheila Nevins, President, HBO Documentary Films; Anna Miralis, Editor, True Stories, Channel 4 Documentaries; Connor Schell, Executive Producer, ESPN Films, and others as they discuss the type of films they’re drawn to and thoughts on where this genre is headed.

DATE: Saturday, April 23

TIME: 2:30PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Are Documentary Films Changing the World?

Documentary films unveil important truths, challenge assumptions, and often compel audiences to take action. Many of today’s filmmakers are faced with an additional challenge—how do they ensure their film will have a significant impact on the public and on the policies their story highlights? The collaboration of filmmakers with NGOs and community groups has created a new distribution model, and the measure of success now reaches beyond sales to changes in public perception and policy. Join filmmaker and activist Abigail Disney, director Michael Collins Give Up Tomorrow, Executive Director and Co-Founder of Impact Partners Dan Cogan, and others for an insightful discussion on the new paths of distribution for nonfiction films and the ways filmmakers and their subjects are making their voices heard.

DATE: Sunday, April 24

TIME: 2:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Digital By Design

The emergence of online digital platforms and applications provokes filmmakers to confront technology head-on. Join SAP and industry executives for a down-to-earth discussion about how the digital age aids today’s filmmaker in three key areas: Funding models, intellectual property management, and distribution channels. Richard Whittington, senior VP of media and entertainment at SAP, joins and writer/director Edward Burns and others to discuss these critical components of filmmaking and how they affect the filmmaker’s new marketplace. Sponsored by SAP.

DATE: Tuesday, April 26

TIME: 2:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

THE BUSINESS OF ENTERTAINMENT

Securing the funds to get a film made has historically always been a challenge, and today producers are also faced with a tough economic climate. Hear stories and advice from producers and financiers who have a flair for getting the funds they need by any means necessary. Sponsored by Bloomberg

DATE: Wednesday, April 27

TIME: 2:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Shooting Film on a Budget

One of the most important aspects of realizing your independent feature is determining the right look. How will you capture your images and bring the script to the screen in a meaningful, visual way? Filmmakers and cinematographers must consider many variables: mood of the story, production restrictions, post workflow, etc. Too often these important decisions are determined by the bottom line. However, many filmmakers are able to get the most out of their budgets while still shooting film. Join Michael Cuesta, writer/director of Roadie, producer Karen Chien, and others to learn how to create beautiful and cost-effective cinematic narratives on film. Sponsored by Kodak.

DATE: Thursday, April 28

TIME: 2:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

“Tribeca Talks: Pen to Paper”

Hosted by Barnes & Noble

Based on True Events

Writers who turn true events into films must grapple with how much truth to include or embellish to meet their cinematic ambition. If your source material is based on true events, who is the writer responsible to? From what to dramatize to what to omit, writers and filmmakers face the inevitable question: Where is the line between a great narrative film and the truth of the events. Join Steven Silver, director and screenwriter of The Bang Bang Club; Greg Marinovich, photographer and co-author of The Bang-Bang Club: Snapshots from a Hidden War; Adam Kassen and Mark Kassen, directors of Puncture; and Chris Lopata, screenwriter of Puncture; about how far over the line writers are allowed to go.

DATE: Saturday, April 23

TIME: 1:00 PM

LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Union Square

In Conversation with Peter Bart

In the past few years, film conversation has consumed itself with how digital innovation is reshaping our industry. As discussions constantly look to the future of filmmaking, we turn the discussion back. Join author, television host and Variety editorial director Peter Bart and Tribeca Enterprises chief creative officer Geoffrey Gilmore for a chat about filmmaking in the New Hollywood era of the late-1960s and early-1970s. From the larger-than-life personalities and conflicts that resulted in some of the most acclaimed films of a generation, to the funny anecdotes that captured the world, we take a look back at a time that changed how stories were told. Bart will also sign copies of his new memoir Infamous Players: A Tale of Movies, The Mob, (And Sex).

DATE: Sunday, April 24

TIME: 1:00 PM

LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Union Square

Writing the Documentary

Whether you’re following the story of a little league team struggling to win a championship or diving into the story of how the television was invented, the term “writing the documentary” might not occur to you as you watch the drama unfold before your eyes. What most people don’t realize is that documentaries also begin with the blank page and an idea. Join David Gelb, director of Jiro Dreams of Sushi,

Maria Ramström, director of Love Always, Carolyn, and others for a discussion about how that idea is turned into a narrative.

DATE: Monday, April 25

TIME: 1:00 PM

LOCATION: Barnes & Noble Union Square

Tribeca/ESPN Sports Film Festival

Catching Hell

In just a few years ESPN Films has become an industry heavyweight, breaking away from what was traditionally thought of as sports film. They’ve reinvented the genre, and by showcasing stories of passion, triumph and loss, the resurgence of sports-themed films has never been stronger. Sponsored by Time Warner Cable.

After the Movie: Join us for an intimate conversation with director Alex Gibney about the psychology of die-hard sports fans and the phenomenon of scapegoating after the screening of the latest ESPN production Catching Hell.

DATE: Sunday, April 24

TIME: 5:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

A special “Tribeca Talks” Event

Youth Radicalization Redefined

TFF, Google Ideas, and the Council on Foreign Relations (CFR) present a panel discussion involving six former extremists who have renounced violence and are working together to promote a sense of community and youth education. The conversation aims to provide a forum for high school students and their parents to identify signs of recruitment and the subsequent dangers of radicalization.

Moderated by Jared Cohen, director of Google Ideas and a CFR adjunct fellow.

DATE: Friday, April 29

TIME: 5:30 PM

LOCATION: SVA Theater 2

Tickets for 2011 Festival:

Tickets for the Festival will be $16.00 for evening and weekend screenings, and $8.00 for daytime weekday and late night screenings.

Advance selection ticket packages and passes go on sale for American Express Cardmembers on Monday, March 7, and on Monday, March 14 for the general public. All advance packages and passes can be purchased online at www.tribecafilm.com, or by telephone, toll free, at (866) 941-FEST (3378).

Single ticket and discounted ticket package sales begin for American Express Cardmembers on Tuesday, April 12, 2011, for downtown residents on Sunday, April 17, 2011, and for the general public on Monday, April 18, 2011. Single tickets can be purchased online, by telephone, or at one of the Ticket Outlets, with locations at Tribeca Cinemas at 54 Varick Street, Chelsea Clearview Cinemas at 260 West 23rd Street, and AMC Village VII at 66 3rd Avenue. The 2011 Festival will continue ticket discounts for evening and weekend screenings for students, seniors and select downtown Manhattan residents. Discounted tickets are available at Ticket Outlet locations only. Discounted ticket packages can only be purchased online and by phone. Additional information and further details on the Festival can be found at www.tribecafilm.com.

Tribeca (Online) Film Festival

2011-03-21T21:46:00.000-04:00

The 2011 Tribeca Film Festival has announced the Tribeca (Online) Film Festival, a free and unique digital initiative that allows film lovers the opportunity to interact with and experience elements of the Tribeca Film Festival from anywhere in the world. I thought you might be especially interested in this because the online festival includes some of this year’s shorts!

While the 10th edition of the Tribeca Film Festival will be happening in downtown Manhattan from April 20 to May 1, an equally exciting version will be occurring concurrently on the Web. The T(O)FF experience includes the streaming room, where domestic audiences can reserve "seats" for six feature and nine short films playing simultaneously at TFF 2011, and nine short film favorites from past Festivals; and “Live From...”, which will bring star-studded red carpets, TFF's opening press conference & awards show to global audiences for live, real-time coverage.

In addition, the online festival will host the Tribeca Q&A, which will offer online audiences the opportunity to engage with not only each other, but industry experts including Brian Williams, Whoopi Goldberg, filmmakers David Gordon Green and Zach Braff, in addition to Tribeca’s Jane Rosenthal, Geoff Gilmore, and Nancy Schafer; and many more. This interactive experience will bring never-before content directly to a participating public.

Film enthusiasts can reserve “seats” for T(O)FF screenings at tribecaonline.com beginning April 18 (April 12 for AmEx cardmembers), but the Tribeca Q&A, along with a robust offering of interactive, film-focused content is available beginning today.

You can reserve "seats" for screenings this April.

Top 10 Reasons To Go To The Tribeca Film Festival

2011-03-18T22:05:00.000-04:00

The 2011 Tribeca Film Festival from April 20-May 1 is almost underway and if you've never attended the festival or need a tiny reminder why you should come back again this year, here's 10 reasons why we think you should check it out:

10. It's in New York City.

It's located in the best city in the U.S. Okay, for some that statement may be up for debate, but let's face it--NYC has it all; bright lights, showtunes, great food, and an annual festival that brings some of the biggest A-list celebrities and international talent from all over the world.

9. You may meet DeNiro.

Robert DeNiro co-founded the festival along with Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff in 2001 following the attacks on the World Trade Center. DeNiro is very involved with the festival and throughout its run, DeNiro can be spotted at a number of events. "You lookin for me?" Bad joke...we know.

8. Impressive Sponsors.

This isn't just any other festival with mom and pop sponsors from the local deli or Bob's hardware store. With big wig companies like American Express and Cadillac, expect to see some awesome perks that come with that type of sponsorship. Not sure if you will get a free car, but you will get a pretty awesome festival gift pack!

7. An Insane Amount Of Movies Screened.

You can watch anything from 5 minute indie shorts to feature length mainstream films. It's easy to spend an entire day watching movies from a variety of locations. Check out a short film in Tribeca Cinemas off Varick St. or a movie premiere at the Ziegfeld Theater in midtown.

6. All-Access.

Having a festival pass (depending on what type) gives you entry into events such as the filmmaker lounge, to family events for the kids, to an evening with drinks and appetizers at a hip downtown bar. You pick your pleasure.

5. Tis The Season

The weather in late April and early May in NYC is at its peak. Meaning it's not too hot and not too cold. It's breezy easy weather that makes standing outside and waiting for tickets to a screening so much easier to cope with. It's the time of year right before summer hits, so you can still plan your summer getaway and it will not conflict with your festival schedule. It's right after Mardi Gras, so you have been able to get New Orleans out of your system. It takes place at the right time of year that makes you feel like it in fact is the season to be jolly---for watching movies. LOTS of em.

4. It's Two Whole Weeks!

Most film festivals last a week or even a weekend. Tribeca gives festival attendees an opportunity to enjoy two whole weeks of its awesome goodness and the cool thing is, if you're not in town to enjoy the first week of the festival, there's always the second and vice-versa.

3. Festival Staff

You gotta give props to the guys that run this festival. Some of the hardest working individuals are somehow able to pull out one of the biggest festivals in all of Hollywood. From the guys doing hard labor in the distribution teams, to the sponsorship crew and let's not forget the volunteers that put in tons of hours to help prep the festival and make it run smoothly. College students, film geeks, and industry locals all come out to help with the festival.

2. Ubiquity.

Many festivals take a place in a few theaters and a couple of venues. Although the festival initially began in TriBeCa (Triangle Below Canal St.), which is located in downtown Manhattan, the festival has several screenings throughout the island from downtown to midtown and even uptown. These events are happening all over Manhattan all at once, so it really gives the festival goer the opportunity to explore the great city of Manhattan and all its splendor.

1. Notoriety.

If you're a filmmaker, writer, or actor and your film is entered in this festival--the sky's the limit. The Tribeca seal alone on your film is going to give you the attention you deserve. You may leave the festival with a ton of voicemail messages from industry people wondering what just happened. Get prepared for fame. Filmmakers receive crazy perks too like video editing systems. You're almost treated like royalty.

Tribeca All Access – 2011 Project Selection

2011-03-17T21:17:00.001-04:00

Tribeca All Access – 2011 Project Selection

NOTE:

*BOLD Name – indicates Spotlighted Filmmaker

DOCUMENTARIES:

Boarders Without Borders

“Boarders Without Borders” follows three American snowboarders on a journey to the world-class mountains of Iran, where they meet and ride with Iranian youth snowboarders. A shared passion creates an understanding between two seemingly disparate nations.

Crew:

*Marjan Tehrani (Co-Director, Producer)

Brian Sachson (Co-Director)

Brian Sachson (Producer)

Broken Heart Land

After the tragic suicide of a gay teen, the surrounding community of gay youth and their families in the Bible Belt are left to deal with the aftermath as they struggle to prevent further deaths.
Crew:

*Randy Stulberg (Director, Producer)

Jeremy Stulberg (Director, Producer)

Eric Juhola (Producer)

Gideon's Army

Every day, more and more people are arrested, handcuffed, shoved into a

squad car, and booked. Weeks turn into months and their only line of defense is in the hands of a public defender. “Gideon’s Army” asks, are public defenders up to the fight?

Crew:

*Dawn Porter (Director, Producer)

God Loves Uganda

Evangelical missionaries from the U.S.A. export their war against immorality to Uganda, where the battle for human souls clashes with the fight for human rights.

Crew:

*Roger Ross Williams (Director, Producer),

Nick Quested (Executive Producer)

Derek Wiesehahn (DP)

Montana Medical Marijuana Film (title TBD)

Set against the sweeping vistas of the Rockies, the steamy lamplight of marijuana grow-houses, and the cold sterility of the hospice ward, “Montana Medical Marijuana Film” examines the process of turning an underground

Crew:

*Rebecca Richman Cohen (Director, Producer),

Francisco Bello (Producer, Editor)

Joshua Weinstein (Director of Photography)

NARRATIVE:

County Line (Drama)

A Southern town's underbelly exposed when its sheriff tries to rid himself of a drug alliance with a family friend and investigate the deaths of his female informants. In the process, he must confront his son's addiction to the drugs he's allowed in his county.

Crew:

*Tina Mabry (Director, Screenwriter),

Morgan Stiff (Producer, Screenwriter, Editor)

Lee Stiff (Producer, Exec. Producer)

Bradford Young (D.P.)

Meg Morman (Casting Director)

Dandekar Finds Home (Dramedy)

When a kindly middle-aged man is forced into retirement, and his daughters attempt to cheer him up by trading away his old, clunky Volvo for a brand-new one, Dandekar’s daylong journey to get his beloved old car back prepares him to move onto the next phase of his life.

Crew:

*Leena Pendharkar (Director, Screenwriter)

Megha Kadakia (Producer)

We’ll Be Gone (Drama)

“We’ll Be Gone” tells the story of a disparate group of Americans bound together by a bad mortgage in the days leading up to the economic collapse.

Crew:

*Hossein Keshavarz (Director, Screenwriter)

The Tennis Partner (Drama)

“The Tennis Partner” is an unforgettable, true story of a doctor's struggle to teach a student about medical science and, as their relationship grows, to save him from cocaine addiction. It is an adaptation of the bestselling memoir by Dr. Abraham Verghese about his medical practice in El Paso, TX.

Crew:

*Mridu Chandra (Screenwriter)

Amy Hobby (Producer)

Somebody to Love (Drama)

Chuck Banks is a broken down soul singer surviving off the fame of his late father and a hit he wrote years ago. After one too many drinks, one too many miles, and one too many fights with his band-mate and girlfriend Janelle, he finds himself in a familiar town where an old flame seems to offer the dream of settling down. Faced with a choice, Chuck struggles to find the love he thinks he wants but ultimately realizes that family is closer than he thought.

Crew:

*Alrick Brown (Director)

Mick Casale (Writer)

Edward McDonald (Producer)

Tati Barrantes (Producer)

Peter Newman (Mentor)

Susan Jacobs (Music Supervisor)

INTERNATIONAL:

UK Film Council Supported:

Giant Land (Drama)

Troubled ten year-old Ryan escapes his mother and her boyfriend by playing on the industrial wasteland near his home, where he finds an injured Afghani man hiding out in a shipping container and convinces himself he has found his estranged father.

Crew:

*Yousaf Ali Khan (Screenwriter,Director)

Canadian Film Centre (CFC) Supported:

Born into This (Comedy)

Jazz musician Benjamin, a down on his luck romantic arrives home after being kicked out of his prestigious music school. His life takes an unexpected turn when his 80 year-old grandfather gives him the family business and becomes a lively roommate.

Crew:

*Emanuel Shirinian (Director)

David Miller (Producer)

Darren Portelli (Producer)

Tribeca Film Sets Expansion of Slate in 2011

2011-03-11T10:46:00.004-05:00

Tribeca Enterprises today announced that Tribeca Film will expand to commercially release 26 films over the next year, more than double the number of titles released in 2010. The comprehensive distribution label for independent film also announced that it acquired U.S. rights to nine new titles to be released across multiple platforms. The curated selection of films includes many genres and features stars including Zach Braff, Vincent Gallo and Zoe Kravitz and filmmakers such as Peter Mullan, Jerzy Skolimowski and Vincent D’Onofrio.

Following its launch in March 2010, Tribeca Film has grown to a year-round, full-service distribution label that delivers quality independent films to audiences through innovative strategies bolstered by its partnership with American Express. Tribeca Film’s significant expansion is highlighted by Tribeca’s continued relationship with Comcast, one of the nation’s leading providers of entertainment and supporter of independent film. Tribeca Film plans to release the following titles theatrically, on video-on-demand and via other platforms throughout the coming year:

· Beware the Gonzo. From director and writer Brian Gobuloff (writer of The Basketball Diaries) comes a teen-angst comedy about an underground newspaper aiming to give voice to high school misfits. The film stars Zoe Kravitz, Ezra Miller, Jesse McCartney, Amy Sedaris, Campbell Scott, and James Urbaniak.

· The Bleeding House. Written and directed by comic book writer and first time filmmaker Philip Gelatt, this taut horror thriller is an original take on the home invasion genre about a family with a haunted past visited by a sweet-talking Texan killer who has come for retribution.

· Brother’s Justice. This Hollywood satire marks Dax Shepard’s directorial debut and is co-directed by David Palmer. The film follows Shepard as he makes the rash decision to abandon comedy in pursuit of his true dream: to become an internationally-renowned martial arts star. Winner of the audience award at the Austin Film Festival and an official selection of the Hollywood Film Festival, it features performances by Tom Arnold, Bradley Cooper, David Koechner, Michael Rosenbaum and Nate Tuck.

· Don’t Go in the Woods. Vincent D’Onofrio makes his feature-length directorial debut with this uproarious rock ‘n' roll horror musical about the fate of a young band seeking a quiet place to write songs in the wrong neck of the woods. The film has screened at the Woodstock Film Festival, the Sarasota Film Festival and the Savannah Film Festival.

· Grave Encounters. Directed and written by first time filmmakers the Vicious Brothers, this cinéma-vérité style supernatural thriller follows a ghost-hunting reality television show host and crew as they shoot an episode inside an abandoned psychiatric hospital, where unexplained phenomena have been reported for years. All in the name of good television, they voluntarily lock themselves inside the building for the night and begin a paranormal investigation, capturing everything on camera. They quickly realize that the building is more than just haunted - it is alive - and it has no intention of ever letting them leave.

· The High Cost of Living. Director Deborah Chow’s dark romantic drama about intertwined fates centers on the burgeoning relationship between an unlikely pair. Nathalie (Isabelle Blais) is expecting her first child, and Henry (Zach Braff) is on his way to his next drug deal. Their paths fatefully collide one night in an event that will irrevocably change their lives. The film was an official selection of the Toronto Film Festival.

· NEDS. Peter Mullan's third feature as a writer and director, after Orphans and The Magdalene Sisters, is a violent 1970s coming-of-age drama set in a gritty section of Glasgow. NEDS won Best Film at the San Sebastian Film Festival and was chosen Best Film at the 2011 London Evening Standard Awards.

· Ultrasuede: In Search of Halston. No one represented the 1970s quite like legendary designer Halston. In this stylish documentary, director Whitney Sudler-Smith takes a fabulous fun-and-fact-filled journey through Halston’s life and times. Interviews with friends and witnesses (including Liza Minnelli, Diane Von Furstenberg, André Leon Talley, Anjelica Huston, Bob Colacello and Billy Joel, among others) round out this glittering evocation of the man who defined the decadent era. Tribeca Film will release the following on VOD and other platforms:

· Essential Killing. A gripping adventure thriller directed by acclaimed Polish auteur Jerzy Skolimowski. A captured Taliban fighter (Vincent Gallo) is interrogated, tortured and then moved to an unnamed snowy detention camp in Europe. Following an accident involving his transport convoy, he becomes an escaped convict on a continent he does not know. Essential Killing world premiered In Competition at the Venice International Film Festival, and won the Special Jury Prize and Best Actor for Vincent Gallo's performance. Previously announced titles from Tribeca Film include the following, which will be released in theatres in multiple markets, as well as via VOD and other platforms:

· The Bang Bang Club. Award-winning documentary filmmaker Steven Silver makes his feature directorial debut with this electrifying tale of a young band of war photographers who documented the last days of apartheid in South Africa. Based on a true story, the film stars Ryan Phillippe, Malin Akerman and Taylor Kitsch and premiered at the Toronto Film Festival. · Janie Jones. Directed by David M. Rosenthal, Janie Jones is a charming rock ‘n’ roll road trip drama about a father and daughter finding their way to each other. The film stars Abigail Breslin, Alessandro Nivola, Elisabeth Shue and Brittany Snow and premiered at the Toronto Film Festival.

· Last Night. Director Massy Tadjedin makes her directorial debut with a carefully crafted romantic drama about two couples confronting temptation and the limits of fidelity over the course of one night. Starring Keira Knightley, Sam Worthington, Eva Mendes and Guillaume Canet, the film was an official selection at the Toronto, Venice and Rome Film Festivals. Fourteen more titles will be added to the Tribeca Film slate in the coming months. “With the rapidly evolving landscape, Tribeca Film provides strategic opportunities and plans to customize campaigns using new platforms for distribution,” said Tribeca co-founder Jane Rosenthal. “We see real opportunities for filmmakers and audiences.”

Upon its initial launch, Tribeca Film delivered an inaugural slate of 12 titles nationwide through a network of multi-platform distribution partnerships, beginning with an initial release via cable and telco video-on-demand and satellite pay-per-view in Spring 2010. The films were also distributed digitally via Amazon.com, the Apple iTunes Store, Netflix Streaming and Vudu, with select titles airing on Showtime. The independent label also released 11 of the films in limited theatrical engagements and partnered with New Video to launch the Tribeca Film home video label. The continued expansion of Tribeca Film attests to Tribeca Enterprises’ goal of redefining traditional models of independent film distribution and release patterns and, in conjunction with the Tribeca Film Festival and other of its media holdings, creating new opportunities and discovering new audiences for filmmakers. “Tribeca Film had a terrific launch in 2010, releasing an exciting selection of quality independent films,” said Geoff Gilmore, Chief Creative Officer at Tribeca. “In 2011, we look forward to continuing to respond to the contemporary challenges of distribution today and are especially excited to be on the cutting edge working to develop new scenarios.

We value our relationships with our distribution partners, the unique role played by American Express, and the talented filmmakers we have the pleasure of working with.” American Express is an important and unique element of Tribeca Film. American Express has reinforced its commitment to providing independent filmmakers with new platforms to deliver compelling stories to audiences, and Cardmembers, everywhere. In its second year, Tribeca Film will continue to leverage the unique marketing force of American Express to create customized release patterns that are filmmaker-friendly and provide audiences with access to films they otherwise might not have the opportunity to see.

SPIKE LEE TO BE HONORED AT AUCTION BENEFITING CHILDREN¹S CHARITY, CAMP BROOKLYN, ON WEDNESDAY, DEC 9

2009-11-26T12:43:00.001-05:00

Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz will present the 20th Anniversary Mickey Mantle Community Service Award to director and actor Spike Lee as well as Denise Arbesu of Citibank at an annual sports and entertainment fantasy auction benefiting Camp Brooklyn on December 9th.

Camp Brooklyn was founded by Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz to give children from low-income homes an opportunity to attend a sleep-away camp no cost to the camper. The Camp Brooklyn Fund gives these children a chance to leave their urban environment and learn about teamwork, loyalty, wholesome health habits, responsibility, personal respect and appreciation for nature, all of which are a part of a child¹s education at summer camp.

Since 2002 Camp Brooklyn sent more than 1500 Brooklyn children to summer camp. To help raise funds - - and send over 400 children to camp in 2010 - - Camp Brooklyn will auction off a number of unique and exclusive items at the event, including:

·A walk-on role In Spike Lee¹s next movie
·A Bruce Springsteen signed acoustic guitar
·A week-long stay along the Amalfi Coast in Italy with breakfast and gourmet
dinners in a sea view room at the 4-star rated Hotel Bonadies
· 4 or 5 day Carnival Cruise, sailing from the Port of New York
·An Alex Rodriguez #13 autographed New York Yankees pinstripe jersey

In addition to the above, a vacation package with Carnival Cruise Lines, VIP seats to the Late Show with David Letterman, The Daily Show with Jon Stewart and Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, getaways to Orlando, Salt Lake and Las Vegas and over 50 other items will also be auctioned.

The week leading up to the event, Camp Brooklyn will also host several items on-line at www.charitybuzz.com. This on-line auction will begin on Tuesday, December 1st and close at noon on December 9th. All on-line items will then be available for bidding at the event.

Tickets are $200 and available to the general public. All proceeds will benefit Camp Brooklyn. Tickets include a full buffet dinner, open bar, the award ceremony hosted by Jamie and Marty Markowitz and silent and live auctions with Q104¹s Ken Dashow as the auctioneer.

To purchase tickets or donate to the Camp Brooklyn Fund, visit: http://www.active.com/donate/campbrooklyn2009

Details:
Camp Brooklyn Fundraiser
Wednesday, December 9th.
6pm-9pm
Mickey Mantle¹s Restaurant
42 Central Park South
New York, NY 10019
(business attire recommended)

For more information, please contact Karen Rosenberg at Empire Events Group, Inc. 212-625-1025 or email: karen@empireeventsgroup.com or Brendan Gilmartin at Shore Fire Media (bgilmartin@shorefire.com) 718-522-7171 x. 12
Nancie S. Martin at Shore Fire Media (nsmartin@shorefire.com) 718-522-7171 x. 23

Media Coalition For Artists Of Color

2009-11-26T12:38:00.002-05:00

The indigenous people of the Americas had no idea that the Thanksgiving Dinner with the European Pilgrims would become a "Last Supper" for their people throughout the "New World".
in this issue DV Republic Leadership Blogging in the Liberated Zone Media Coalition Networking Salon Martial Arts Challengers: Karate vs Kung Fu Blogging in the Liberated Zone

DV Republic provides a media digest to trigger online discussion in the "public square" of the DV Republic liberated zone. We monitor the intersection of media, technology, and social justice to bring you the latest news and information that deserves your attention and commentary.As a DV Republic citizen, we invite you to post your comments and engage in this dynamic online discussion.

Media Coalition Networking Salon

The next Media Coalition of Artists of Color networking salon will be November 30, 2009 and features a talk with Neema Barnette, a pioneering filmmaker among African American women in film and TV. This event is being held at the Dwyer Cultural Center in Harlem and hosted by the International Communication Association with the Harlem Arts Alliance.The International Communication Association is reaching out to alumni of the Community Film Workshop, Third World Cinema, and Institute of New Cinema Artist (INCA) and encourages them all to register and attend this event.The Media Coalition of Artist of Color includes African American Women in Cinema, Asian Cinevision, BFF, Black Documentary Collective, Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment, dvRepublic, National Association of Latino Independent Producers, and Tribeca All Access.

Magnolia Pictures presents Adrienne Shelly’s SERIOUS MOONLIGHT

2009-11-22T14:29:00.002-05:00

Opens in theaters on December 4, 2009

Director Cheryl Hines (Actress on “Curb Your Enthusiasm”, “Waitress”) Starring Meg Ryan, Timothy Hutton, Kristen Bell and Justin LongDirected by Cheryl Hines. Written by Adrienne Shelly. Produced by Andy Ostroy and Michael Roiff High-powered Manhattan lawyer Louise (Meg Ryan) is touched when she comes home for the weekend to her upstate getaway house to find it strewn with rose petals by Ian, (Timothy Hutton) her husband of 13 years.

Unfortunately, as Louise quickly discovers, Ian is not expecting her and has laid out the spread for his much younger girlfriend (Kristen Bell) who was meeting him for a secret getaway. In fact, he’s in the process of writing Louise a letter explaining his intention to leave her for good. But Louise has other plans--one thing leads to another, and Ian soon finds himself held captive by an oddly cool Louise who calmly explains that she won't release him until he professes his love for her and commits to working on their marriage together. And when Ian’s impatient mistress shows up, not to mention an opportunistic gardener (Justin Long), that’s where things start to get really weird.

Movie Review: Frailty

2009-11-19T20:18:00.004-05:00

I know this movie is an oldie...but its also a goodie. "There are demons among us" echoes the voice of Mr. Meiks played by Bill Paxton as a man who has a vision by an angel and becomes a messenger of mercy from God to destroy demons. In the movie Frailty, the story begins with Fenton Meiks played by Matthew McConaughey as man who claims he knows the man who is known as the God's Hands killer. He admits that the serial killer is his own brother.

From there Meiks tells the story to FBI agent Wesley Doyle played by Powers Boothe the story of his childhood and what it was like growing up in a single parent home with his father and brother. His father is sent on a mission from God to destroy the demons that are among us. These demons appear in human form and young Fenton believes his father is killing innocent human beings and not demons.

Fenton tries to tell the local police that his father is crazy, but no one believes him. Soon after Fenton is punished by his father forced to stay imprisioned in the backyard of a makeshift dungeon he created for disposing the bodies of his victims.

This film is a thriller/horror film that will have you on the edge of you seat minute by minute. Stunning performance by Bill Paxton, who also directed the film. A late review, but a film certainly worth its wait!!!

The summary of the movie ends here, because there is a pretty intense plot twist that shall remain secret until you have seen the film, but let's just say as someone who can predict a plotline very well, I didn't see it comin! As a sidenote; it was good to see McConaughey in a film where he didn't play a stoner or a wisecrackin douche who has commitment issues with women. Of course this film came out in 2001 and he hasn't really played against type since. Poor Matthew.

City's film business in a cliff-hanger? - Crain's New York Business

2009-10-22T20:45:00.001-04:00

City's film business in a cliff-hanger? - Crain's New York Business

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2009 Screenwriting Expo

2009-10-10T20:10:00.002-04:00

Sup peeps!
if you're in L.A. from OCT. 16th - 18th, this is one event you DON'T want to miss! Use the ISA code and receive 10% off your registration!

2009 Screenwriting Expo
For information or to register go to: click here.
If You Are Or Want To Be A Screenwriter, Here's Why You Should Attend The Screenwriting Expo...

SAVE 10% on Registration with the discount code below!- 135 seminars to improve your screenwriting and your skills at selling your scripts - A chance to hear and ask a question of our Guests of Honor: famous screenwriters and producers (so far this year, William Goldman, John Cleese, producer/exec Mike Medavoy, CSI’s Anthony Zuiker, Karey Kirkpatrick, Shane Black, Franklin Leonard (creator of The Black List) and Emmy-winning TV writers/producers James Manos and Erik Bork are on the program). - Network: rub elbows with 2,000 other screenwriters, agents, producers, directors, screenwriting teachers, and script consultants.

- Visit the exhibit hall for discounts on every screenwriting supply, book, or resource imaginable

- Practice pitching your stories at Pitch Boot Camp, then pitch your script and maybe close a deal.

- Save 10% off the registration fee with this coupon: ISA If you're a seasoned pro, the Expo has great tuneup and specific-topic classes for you -- writing an opening, character arc, dialogue, endings, pitching, managing your career. If you're an absolute beginner, the Expo is the place to start. It even has classes on how to use the screenwriting software of your choice.

If you're somewhere in between, they you're like most Expo registrants. From October 16-18 (Fri-Sun), the 2009 Screenwriting Expo will once again host the best pitch event in existence: The Golden Pitch Festival. With the best collection of studios, production companies, agencies and management companies we've ever presented, the Golden Pitch Festival gives you unparalleled access to industry professionals at top companies who are actively seeking new clients and material. For legal reasons, many of these companies must reject unsolicited material from unrepresented writers year-round - yet for 3 days this October, they've opened their doors exclusively for you!

Companies attending this year include Warner Bros, UTA, Gersh, Lionsgate, Summit, Imagine Entertainment, Relativity Media, Laura Ziskin Prods., Kurtman/Orci, Smoke House (George Clooney), Phoenix Pictures, and many many many more! The sooner you register, the better shot you have at nabbing slots with these amazing companies,. The ON-SALE date for these tickets is just A COUPLE DAYS AWAY. Make sure you are part of our attendee list so you will have your chance to get your idea out there. Come to the 2009 Screenwriting Expo – you won’t regret your decision!

For information or to enter, click here.

The Mourning After

2009-09-12T13:11:00.001-04:00

There have been a number of films within the last five years that deal with circumstances around the tragedy of 9/11 in New York City. A new film by budding director, Lawrence LAW Watford called The Mourning After is about an extramarital relationship between a man and a woman and affair that took place the night of Sept 10th that would change their lives forever.

Chris and Felicia work at the World Trade Center and on the evening of Sept 10th, the two decide to rent a room in a high rise Manhattan hotel suite. The film begins with Chris and Felicia preparing to go to work when the sounds of police sirens and fire trucks surround the background. Chris' cell phone is ringing off the hook and he immediately turns on the television to see what is going on. The face of Geroge W. Bush is seen annoucing to the world that two airplanes crashed into the twin towers in New York City.

The story turns now to Chris and Felicia, who were supposed to be in that building if not for their heated affair the night before, and both live with not only the guilt of cheating on their spouses, but also the torment of what would have been if they decided to stay faithful to their partners. The film takes a dramatic turn when Chris' life after the affair changes significantly compared to that of Felicia's and the two are battling feelings of shame, pity, and resentment that comes to a climactic close.

There are solid performances in this film and stunning shots of New York City's ground zero. It's a film that shows meaning and purpose in a meaningless act that occured on September 11th. The film was shot on a shoestring budget, but asthetically looks like it was made on larger scale indie budget. The Mourning After is definitely a film worth seeing and shows an intensity in a small sliver of screen time that has you yearning for more.

The film was made on a $12,000 budget in New York City. The trailer of the film can be seen here. Please contact Lawville Solutions if you are interested in more information about the film.

Take a look at the trailer here:

Movie Review: State of Play

2009-09-10T13:17:00.000-04:00

The Mourning After

2009-06-18T21:59:00.009-04:00

Here is an inside look at the upcoming film "The Mourning After" directed by Lawrence "Law" Watford.

The film is "The Mourning After"… It’s the story of two corporate executives who were supposed to be in the World Trade Center on 9/11, but instead were in a near by hotel room having an affair. They reunite 3 years later, still deeply affected by the event and why they survived.

The script is an adaptation of a one-act play, written by David Ray. Lawrence’s grad school classmate. "I always loved the story. I was there when David pitched it back in film school. The challenge for David and I was figuring out how to make the most tragic event in U.S. history a backdrop and not the story itself."

The script was originally written in 2002 and was a finalist in filmmaker.com’s short screenplay competition in 2004. But while there was a lot of interest in the topic, nobody thought it was a safe bet as a film…

In 2005 Lawrence contacted David after he completed his last film "A Christmas Wish" and asked if the script was still available… It was and Lawrence immediately began the development… His first target was pitching to actress, Nia Long in 2005. "Melvin Van Peebles introduced me to her at the American Black Film Festival, where "A Christmas Wish" premiered… I asked her if she was interested in producing and she said yes and went from there, but it didn’t develop pass that point"… the project needed funding.

Before he knew it years had passed. During that time, he brought on some friends to help in the development, but the lack of funding made it impossible keep them from other immediate and pressing commitments out in LA.

As more time passed, and having no new material to show Law became antsy and began to randomly reach out to Hollywood talent in the hope that they’d be as attracted to the dramatic nature of the project as he was. "I know that there are a lot of well-known actors in Hollywood, who are pigeon-holed into comedies, or adventure, or television and I was hoping that one of them would see the project as mutually beneficial… I provide them with material that allows them to really demonstrate their chops and they provide me with the celebrity that will help me get the film out in major film festivals"

Law’s efforts eventually paid off when actress Keesha Sharp (Girlfriends) decided to come on board. "Before she came on, there was no project. Just a lot of hope. But once she said she was in, the shoot date became whenever she was free and the budget became whatever I could raise to make it happen"

In an effort to make it worth Sharp’s journey from LA to New York, Law began to search for another Hollywood male to co-star. To help in that effort he brought on talent agent Angela Gulizio, of G&G Talent. "I met Angela on the set of "I Am Legend" and we hit it off. She’s tough and no nonsense, but a genuinely good person who I felt I could trust"

Lawrence and Angela began contacting talent reps, who he thought were attracted to the "audacity" of the concept and the script. "we had interest from Kevin Bacon’s reps, as well as Adam Beach (Flags of Our Fathers). The last meeting we had was with Malik Yoba. We had a great lunch and we were close, but his schedule didn’t allow for him to participate"

In the end it would be the intense and fast approaching schedule, coupled with an inflexible budget that would leave his film starless.

Law would eventually pull from his friends and the production became a cast and crew of familiars, with some new additions. "The crew was fantastic! We shoot for 5 days with a crew of 5, plus 2 interns… but in the end, everyone, including the actors were taking on crew positions"

Law admits that the schedule was grueling, with one day going as long as 17 hours. "It was the hardest thing I’ve ever done, and I know that a no budget indies are like that, but I can’t wait for the day when I can do this as a low budget idie with 14 hour days and three weeks to shoot"

With the film almost ready for release, Law is hoping to score big, with a spot at the major national and international film festivals, where he hopes the subject of 9/11, along with the films intense drama would connect will audiences.

You can contact Lawville Solutions at:

Publicist: Donnette Dunbar, Dash Media 212-758-7394

Visit the Lawville Solutions website at http://www.lawvillesolutions.com/

Where My Blacktors At?

2009-04-17T21:20:00.016-04:00

As of lately this movie reviewer has been watching her fair share of black romantic comedies. When I was talking to my best friend about this situation she put it simply because "Girl you're black , and looking for love." Maybe. Or maybe I was watching them because I cant find my quality black romantic comedies and black love stories in the theaters any more!!

Remember there was a time from about 1999 to 2004 when we had this nice steady stream of black romantic movies. Films such as Brown Sugar, The Wood, The Brothers, Two Can Play That Game, Breaking all The Rules, Deliver Us From Eva, Love Jones, Love and Basketball and to me the top of the heap The Best Man. It also would include what I've branded the "Black Pack". The most common players in these movies would include Taye Diggs, Morris Chestnut, Sanaa Lathan and Gabriel Union with a few supporting characters like Omar Epps, Vivica Fox, Nia Long, Tamala Jones, maybe a rapper turned actor like L.L. Cool J and Queen Latifah to round out the cast.

These films would be like any other romantic comedy. You know the whole boy meets girl, boy falls for girl, some issue happens where they are mad at each other, then they make up and get together and all that jazz. The only major difference would just be the color of the cast and usually some comedian would be in it to be the comic relief. Not since the blaxploitation movies of the 70's and the break dancing/rap movies of the 80's had we seen such a large swell of movies that showcased new upcoming black actors. These movies were enthusiatically recieved by audiences of all colors. So why arent' they in the movie theatres now!?!

However, if I were to walk down the aisle in Blockbuster video or go on Netflix I would see a long list of straight to video black films that I've never even heard of. Does Hollywood think they are non-profitable so they put them straight to DVD? Were we not supporting these movies like we should have? Is it because Black Folks watch too many damn bootleg movies so these films werent seeing the profit that they should have? Maybe. But also we have to look into finding good material to film, because if I have to sit through another film like the Seat Filler I will hurt somebody.

Fortunately Tyler Perry has been picking up some of the slack in recent years with the black romantic comedy through his blockbusters Diary of Mad Black Woman, Madea's Family Reunion, and Why Did I Get Married ?just to name a few. Bottom line is we have to support these films, because in the end no matter what race you are you're just watching a good movie. And that is what it's all about.

So excuse me, it's time for me to watch my guilty pleasure B*A*P*S

NY indieseen readers!! I want to hear your opinions on black films. I wanna hear what your favorite black romantic comedies and black love stories are. Email me at moviechik80@hotmail.com

Movie Review:The Seat Filler

2009-04-09T00:26:00.006-04:00

Well I came across this film on my Netflix queue, because it was a recommended movie and it was a watch instantly film, so I said “Hey, why not.” In this movie Duane Martin (remember him? Mr. Tisha Campbell) is Derrick a man trying to find his way in life and LA. He has a law degree and MBA, but alas no job. That means crashing at his friend’s apartment and taking the bus.

In order to get some extra cash to pay for his classes that prepare him to take the California State Bar Exam he becomes a seat filler. You know one of those people that sits in empty seats at award shows whenever someone goes to the bathroom, doesn’t show up, etc. While sitting in a seat at a music award show he meets R & B singer Jhnelle (played by Kelly Rowland in a major acting stretch), who literally falls into Derricks arms when she breaks a heel. They strike up a conversation and she sees what a nice and good looking guy Derrick is. However, Jhnelle doesn’t realize Derrick is merely a seat filler and thinks he is actually in “the business”.

Jhenelle sees Derrick at another awards show and thinks he is in fact Alonzo Grant the man whose seat he is filling. Derrick keeps up the charade of being Alonzo Grant, who is a powerful entertainment lawyer, because he is afraid that Jhnelle will find out that he isn’t rich, powerful, or drives a sports car. Derrick also goes to such great lengths as “borrowing” a Bentley, posing at Alonzo Grants office, and pretending to be a VIP at the club. Also while he is dating Jhnelle he starts missing his bar exam classes and he has to deal with her jack ass of a playboy ex-boyfriend (Shemar Moore playing a soap star. Once again an acting stretch).

Ok. So let me say I really watched this movie because Shemar Moore is in it, and I still have my high school-girl crush on him. I looked at the imdb page and saw it was released in 2004 and I wondered “Why didn’t I hear about this movie before?” I’ll tell you why. It went straight to DVD because this movie isn’t all that great. It had not one, not two, but three writers which include Duane Martin, Tisha Campbell-Martin, and Mark Brown to write this? Plus as a Romantic Comedy its “Comedy” really missed. DeRay Davis is the so called comic relief as Derricks friend EJ, who I didn’t find funny so much as annoying. Every time he cracked a joke I thought “Could you please SHUT UP!!!!”

The movie had potential with an interesting premise with the whole seat filler aspect (and honestly I wish I could be one to earn a little extra cash), but its just totally a by the numbers romantic comedy and entirely predictable. Don’t even get me started on Kelly Roland. As pretty as she is, I kept thinking as I watched her perform her songs in the movie “She ain’t no Beyonce!” She just doesn’t have that OOOMPH, IT, RAZMATAZZ that some popular perfomers’ have.

Even as much as I want to support my Black Romantic Comedies, I just cant stand behind this one. It seemed to drag on even at a mere 1 ½ hours. Now everyone has a different opinion and if you want to check it out and see for yourself then I say go ahead, but don’t come back whining to me that you want that 90 minutes of your life back.

I give it 1 ½ out of 5 tickets.