Category Archives: Reviews

Tribeca Film Festival Review: ‘TIGER RAID’ is a spectacular test of loyalty.

Posted on by — 1 Comment ↓

Tribeca Film Festival logo 2016

World Premiere in the Midnight Category
Section at the 2016 Tribeca Film Festival

tider raid brain and glesson and moloney

Starring:
 Brian Gleeson (Snow White and the Huntsman, The Eagle),
Damien Molony (Suspects),
Sofia Boutella (Kingsman: The Secret Service, upcoming Star Trek Beyond)  and
Rory Fleck-Byrne (The Quiet Ones)

Directed by: Simon Dixon

Written by: Simon Dixon, Mick Donnellan

While on a covert mission, two cold blooded mercenaries form an unlikely bond as they race across the desert in the dead of night. When their violent and desperate world implodes, past atrocities come to the surface threatening to tear each of them apart.

Tiger_Raid_brian gleeson

With Tarantino-esque dialogue driven scenes, TIGER RAID opens in the arid Iraq dessert, as Joe and Paddy approach their mission location. They are assigned with the kidnapping of an unknown individual, receiving orders from earpieces whose instructions are just muffled enough to be a mystery to the audience. Along the way, we learn piecemeal that each man has a haunted past. About 10 minutes in, we get our first plot twist. These flips in writer/director Simon Dixon’s script keep coming as the film’s 92 minutes roll along. I think I lost count at 4. Brian Gleeson as Joe is fierce and domineering, yet somehow totally lovable as he revels in his joy for the kill. Damien Molony shines as Paddy, a man whose emotional obsession comes between his sense of right and wrong. The story is about the extremes of loyalty and the justification of past indiscretions. For me, there is not one moment that is out of place in this film. The score has both a menacing and ethereal feel. The close-ups are delicious and meaningful. The sound design is impeccable and poignant. TIGER RAID takes you on a journey into the minds of men who kill for money and for sport. This vibrant and unapologetically violent ride is beyond engrossing from every angle. It will not disappoint.

  • Section: Midnight
  • Year: 2016
  • Length: 92 minutes
  • Language: English
  • Country: U.K.
  • Premiere: World
You can still get rush tickets for tonight’s screening. I highly recommend that you do.
9:45 PM – FRI 4/22 BOW TIE CINEMAS CHELSEA 5Icon-fg-map RUSH

Review: ‘WE THE PEOPLE: THE MARKET BASKET EFFECT’ puts the humanity in corporation.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Falco Ink LogoFilmbuff logo

PRESENTS
AN NBTV STUDIOS AND BUNGALOW MEDIA + ENTERTAINMENT FILM 

WE THE PEOPLE: THE MARKET BASKET EFFECT

We The People: The Market Basket effect
As a proud New Englander transplanted to New York City, I have a great understanding for small town living. I grew up in a storybook town in northern Connecticut, called Simsbury. It’s a place where people flock each year to see the turning of the leaves. If you’re a fan of Gilmore Girls, well Stars Hallow isn’t too far fetched when you grew up where I did. Everyone pretty much knows what’s going on with everyone else in town. When Target wanted to build a store on one of our busiest streets, well you can bet that got shut down pretty quickly. Everyone prides themselves on shopping local. We’ve got the chain grocery stores on the edge of town, but we all shopped, and still do, at Fitzgerald’s, or Fitzy’s as we so lovingly refer to it. At least one of your closest high school friends worked there at some point. It is a center point in our community. I can’t imagine what would happen if someone from with a corporate mindset came in and try to change things. If the Target incident is any indication, I’m guessing we’d raise hell. In the new doc WE THE PEOPLE: THE MARKET BASKET EFFECT, you get to see what happens when greed battles small town pride.

In an epic account of the warring Demoulas family, corporate greed breaks up a massive family empire. A groundswell of employee & community support cuts to the heart of the volatile, emotional, and dramatic conflict between Arthur T. Demoulas and arch-rival, cousin Arthur S. Demoulas over control of the $4 billion supermarket chain, Market Basket. A conflict that brought down the August 2014 U.S. jobs report by 17,000 jobs, sending shockwaves through the nation. With plot turns worthy of a Greek tragedy, the family feud raged on with the livelihoods of 25,000 employees hanging in the balance.

The film should be shown to such corporations as Johnson & Johnson and Walmart. The formula seems simple;  treat your employees with respect and high wages and productivity soars. Perhaps it doesn’t have to be about making a buck, especially when loyalty is on the line. The film utilizes intimate interviews with lifelong employees of the chain as well as a family history of the court proceedings. Dialogue from board meetings is highlighted and read to illustrate just how cut and dry this story really is. It’s like being afly on the wall in some of the largest businesses in America. At times, it’s actually heartbreaking to hear what we may already know to be true. Money makes the world go round, at least in some minds. With real time footage of protests from not only the staff but customers as well. With such love for their CEO, the people come together, sacrifice for what could have easily been a lost cause, and persevere to show who’s really the boss. It’s a beautiful depiction of what happens when small town heart overthrows greed.

Opening in New York on April 22nd
Opening In New England Starting April 14th
Opening On Demand May 18th

Narrated by Michael Chicklis 
(Gotham, American Horror Story, The Shield, Fantastic Four)

Directed by Tommy Reid 
(Danny Greene: The Rise & Fall of the Irishman, $uperthief: Inside America’s Biggest Bank Score)

Written by Jeff Pinilla
(The Earth, The Way I Left It)

Produced by
Nick Buzell
Robert Friedman
Ted Leonsis
Paul Nero

Executive produced by
Mike Buzzell & Todd Hoffman

Tribeca Film Festival Review/Interview: ‘DETOUR’ is a modern noir with two sides of one story.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Tribeca Film Festival logo 2016

detour, tye, emory, bel

Sometimes in life, a single instance, a momentary decision, is something we wish we could change. Thinking that if only you had said something else, gone the other way, chosen another path, your life might be completely different. These “what ifs” might haunt us but unless you’re a Time Lord there isn’t much you can do about them. That doesn’t stop us from wondering what life would be like. In a Tribeca Film Festival world premiere, DETOUR takes us on a ride that begs that very notion.

Harper, a seemingly naive law student, obsesses over the idea that his shifty stepfather is somehow involved in the devastating car crash that leaves his mother lying comatose in the hospital. He drowns his suspicions in whiskey and, with little forethought, finds himself suddenly entwined in conversation with a volatile grifter, Johnny, and his stripper companion, Cherry. As daylight breaks and the haziness of promises made becomes clearer, how will Harper handle the repercussions—and the violent duo—on his doorstep?

From director Christopher Smith (Creep, Black Death, Triangle), Detour is a stylized noir throwback with a trio of lead performances by of-the-moment actors: Tye Sheridan (Mud, The Tree of Life), Emory Cohen (Brooklyn) and Bel Powley (Diary of a Teenage Girl). Utilizing a unique split-narrative structure to tell his tale of deception and murder, Smith takes his audience on a twisty, thrilling ride, where it’s never quite clear what or whom can be trusted.

Detour-bel

The cast, comprised of Hollywood’s young up and comers Tye Sheridan, Emory Cohen, and Bel Powley, make this noir throwback as successful as it is. With suspicion and grief fueled motives and a $20,000 agreement, murder and mayhem are the goal. Powley, coming off her extraordinary breakout performance in Diary Of A Teenage Girl, is a stunning presence on screen. Caught somewhere between girl next door and Middle American white-trash, her quiet strength and sympathetic nature make the character of Cherry more intriguing than one might think. Emory Cohen, who was completely unrecognizable from his appearance in Brooklyn, takes on the role of Johnny with vigor. With a badass exterior, and hair trigger temper, Cohen’s  best moments are built in fear and protection. Tye Sheriden‘s Harper is whip smart and more cunning than at first glance. This young man is so incredibly comfortable in his own skin, he probably could have played Johnny had he and Cohen’s wardrobe’s been reversed. Detour-tye

Writer/Director Christopher Smith‘s script is sharp. While I knew about the multi-narrative plot going in, I wasn’t expecting to have to remain on my toes as much as I did. In fact, when I initially left the theater, I waxed poetic with a colleague for a good 25 minutes. The more I thought about it, the more I liked it. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the glorious look of the film. Shot on wide-angle lenses in South Africa (which is skillfully made to look like a road trip from America to just across the border into Mexico), Smith’s choices of color and set dressing are key to the ever so slight differentiation in the two narratives. I completely agree with producer Julie Baines, who I was fortunate enough to run into during interviews, who backed up the notion that once you’ve seen the film for the first time, you’ll want to go back and follow the breadcrumbs knowing what you now know. That is exactly how I felt the morning after. I needed to see it again. Baines also reinforced the infectious chemistry between the three leads, both on and off the screen. Think a more complex version of Sliding Doors with a noir aspect. Detour is aptly named.

I was able to sit down with Tye, Emory and Chris over the weekend. You can listen to a spirited and totally down-to-earth interview below. Ladies and Gentleman, Tye Sheridan, Emory Cohen, and Christopher Smith on their new film DETOUR… (and other musings). Enjoy!

 

Remaining screenings at the fest are Rush only, but definitely worth trying to check out now!

4:00 PM – THU 4/21 BOW TIE CINEMAS CHELSEA 9Icon-fg-map RUSH
9:30 PM – FRI 4/22 REGAL CINEMAS BATTERY PARK 11-1Icon-fg-map RUSH

Tribeca Interview/Review: Razor sharp ‘Women Who Kill’ from NYC director Ingrid Jungermann

Posted on by — Leave a reply

women who kilIn Women Who Kill, Morgan and Jean are an ex-couple who live together and host a podcast together on women serial killers in Park Slope, Brooklyn. When Morgan starts dating someone new, Jean suspects the mysterious, Simone, to be a serial killer herself. Original and hilarious, you never quite know what to believe.

The banter between Morgan and Jean is silly and witty. I really enjoyed seeing an ex-couple portrayed as people who are much better as friends than as lovers. It’s odd how often you don’t see that.

The term “first time director” is used to describe Ingrid Jungermann, who writes, directs and stars as Morgan, but she’s not a novice. She may be a first time feature director, but Jungermann has produced two different web series, The Slope and F to 7th with several A-list actors. She’s been writing and acting for over 20 years and you would never guess this is her first feature.

Episode 1: “Miserable Animals” from The Slope on Vimeo.

I got a chance to have a lovely conversation with Jungermann where we talked about everything from video stores to virtual reality. I felt an immediate connection with her after reading about her growing up in a small town and working in a video store. Both of us have a love for the escapism of the movies but unlike me, she pursued acting and directing to create her own movies.

Necessity is the mother of invention. Jungermann started acting in high school and when she realized that there weren’t many parts for her and her friends, she decided to create them herself.

I asked her what made her decide to go from short form to feature, she explains, “it was all part of the plan.” She also says, “the web series was a way for me to make my own rules and taught me about feature filmmaking.” During the second season of F to 7th, she was working on her feature and developing the three act structure.

I had never considered the difference between, but it’s all about structure. In her web series, F to 7th, each episode is about 5 minutes long and each play out as scenes as part of the entire series. They aren’t directly related, but are connected through the characters. Jungermann uses several of the stories and characters from the series in her feature, and it comes together brilliantly.

“I don’t think I really understood feature filmmaking until this film. But what I didn’t realize is how much I love web series.” She describes that she really couldn’t get a grasp on short films and when she discovered a web series option, she jumped at it.

Jungermann would also love to write a virtual reality comedy. She won me over she defended it saying that it won’t ruin movies, “it’s another dimension.”

Jungermann is working on a new sci-fi feminist thriller with Stewart Thorndike who directed Lyle (below) with Gaby Hoffman.


Also recommended was Krishna, which is playing in theaters in New York right now.

Jordan’s Review: Accepting “The Invitation”

Posted on by — Leave a reply

INVITATION_Theatrical-Poster_Web

Forget everything you know about the past films of director (Karyn Kusama) and writers (Phil Hay and Matt Manfredi). These filmmakers have created a new style and beginning for themselves in the genre of suspense that will sincerely put audiences on the edge of their seat; The Invitation is their new beginning. 

THE-INVITATION_Gathering

After two years since the tragic event that split them apart, nine friends come together to reunited at a dinner party in the Hollywood Hills. Despite their uncomfortable history, Will (Logan Marshall-Green) and his girlfriend Kira (Emayatzy Corinealdi), decided to attend this reunion hosted by his ex-wife, Eden (Tammy Blanchard), and her new husband David (Michiel Huisman). A lot has changed in two years, and in an awkward attempt to mingle as normal, certain changes start to become more and more apparent. After hearing more about Eden’s travels to Mexico and her life changing program, Will begins to feel like this invitation has a hidden agenda. While being haunted by a tragedy of the past and his ex’s strange behavior, Will and the audiences’ paranoia worsens as the night progresses.THE-INVITATION_Argument

Your unfathomable thirst for information in order to piece together this cringeworthy night is what makes the writing so great. Director Karyn Kusama said “I like movies that reward our patience and curiosity.” While paying tribute to traditional suspense films, The Invitation constantly washes us over with self doubt, and makes us question whether we should feel uneasy or are we just paranoid?  Are we the crazy ones or are they? I guess you have to see and find out for yourself.  The Invitation will be released and available on VOD on April 8th.

4 out of 5 stars

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-UVh8_mM8uM

Review: ‘THEY’RE WATCHING’ and so are we.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

THEY’RE WATCHING

A New Horror Comedy from Micah Wright and Jay Lender 

TheyreWatching_KeyArt_WebUse_new

Every Saturday, my husband and I sleep in as long as we can enjoying the bed and the mattress we got with one of those coupons for Nolah Mattress, wander out of bed after an hour of silent phone checking, and finally, migrating to the couch we turn on what we call “real estate porn”; international house hunting stories, flipping crappy property series, and how to buy a damn island in the middle of nowhere weirdness. We always make fun of the couples. One of them is usually a royal pain in the ass and the other is overly excited about a total piece a shit. Now that we’re getting into the Manhattan real estate game, we know the harsh reality of trying to purchase property in an impossible market. We’ve seen some real horror shows. But, nothing like in the new horror comedy THEY’RE WATCHING. If you own a real estate property like a parcel of land that you want to sell, you should get in touch with the right experts. We buy Kentucky land, providing property owners with a stress-free way to turn their real estate into cash without any delays.theyrewatchingstill2

When an American home improvement TV show visits a remote Eastern European village, the young crew thinks the lack of mocha lattés and free wifi will be the worst of their problems because they were going to teach these fixes you can do yourself. But after their filming interrupts the superstitious villagers’ private religious ritual, the situation takes a turn for the homicidal… and when the blood starts flowing, that’s when things get really weird. With THEY’RE WATCHING, noted graphic novelists and animators Micah Wright and Jay Lender turn a classic horror premise upside down to create a fresh, funny, eye-popping twist on the genre.

Theyrewatchingstill

The script is funny and absolutely tongue-in-cheek with both the premise and the FX. The performances from the ensemble cast are pretty tight all around. Think Blair Witch meets any of those programs on HGTV. The story kicks off during the mock series episode and picks up when the crew returns 6 months later to film the owner’s flip results. All hell breaks loose when the locals don’t take kindly to American attitude and accidental cultural disrespect. While I pretty much knew what was coming as the story rolled along, that didn’t take away from the unapologetic schlock/ blood filled ending that seemed to go on and on. If you’re an Evil Dead fan, They’re Watching will speak to your sense of comedy and visual carnage. Wright and Lender‘s backgrounds as graphic novelists and animators make this film what it is. By the time the film comes full tilt, I sort of felt like I was playing a first person video game with it’s cinematography style and true B-Horror classic slaughter-fest.  You can check out THEY’RE WATCHING today in theater and on VOD. Feast your eyes on the trailer below:

In Theaters and On Demand March 25, 2016

THEY’RE WATCHING from filmmakers Micah Wright and Jay Lender.  Starring David Alpay (“The Tudors”), Brigid Brannagh (“Army Wives”), Kris Lemche (Haven”), Carrie Genzel (“All My Children”) and Mia Faith (“Dracano”)

Runtime:95mins

Not Rated

Social Media:
Twitter: @theybewatching
Facebook: They’re Watching

Review: ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’

Posted on by — Leave a reply

BvS

To say Warner Bros. has had a hard time getting their DC Movie Universe off the ground would be an understatement. Failed projects like Green Lantern and underwhelming resurrections like Man of Steel have put the movie studio behind the eight ball as they continue to watch their rivals over at Marvel succeed, but things are about to change, or so they hope, as director Zack Snyder brings two of the biggest comic book heroes to the screen in a head to head battle in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Can bringing these two iconic heroes (well, three actually when you add Wonder Woman) put Warner and DC back on the right track and truly bring the dawn of a new cinematic universe to fruition?

BvS1

We begin where Man of Steel ends, at the battle of Metropolis. Superman (Henry Cavill) is in the midst of a furious battle with General Zod (Michael Shannon) and the chaos that ensues from the two combatants leads to much loss of life and the wrath of one billionaire vigilante, Bruce Wayne (Ben Affleck). The world begins to question the existence of Superman and his unchecked powers; the government demands there be regulations regarding Superman’s unchecked heroics and the general public is has a mixed view on his actions. As Superman continues his crusade, his actions bring consequences that lead men like Lex Luthor (Jesse Eisenberg) to look for a solution to stop the man of steel, but Luthor’s plans are much more sinister than just doing the right thing for mankind.

batman-vs-superman-ew-pics-3

Luthor is not the only one looking for a solution to stop Superman. Bruce Wayne’s mixed emotions regarding Superman bring him to the realization that he must prepare himself for battle if that moment arises. The Batman must stand against the coming storm with everything at his disposal and he will let no one stand in his way of accomplishing his goal. Wayne, convinced that Luthor may have vital information that he needs, decides to infiltrate the tech genius’ files to find a suitable answer, but Diana Prince (Gal Gadot), a mysterious woman who is also looking for answers of her own, crosses path with Wayne and leads the billionaire to a much larger discovery. As the time line accelerates, Batman and Superman must come face to face, but will their battle lead to an understanding as a larger threat rears its ugly head?

batman-v-superman-trinity

Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, on the surface, seems like a can’t lose film, but looks can be deceiving. Director Zack Snyder learns very little from his short comings with Man of Steel and continues to wrap chaotic action sequences around poorly written dialogue and tries to sell it to audiences as a complete film. The first half of the movie is a jumbled mess with too many side stories jam packed into an hour and a half. The premise is there and you can see that there is a really good story there somewhere, but Snyder proves that he is not the director to bring it out.The second half picks up and brings some amazing action sequences, but the damage is already done and you’re left trying to piece the film together on your own.

Batman-V-Superman-Movie-Doomsday-Trailer

Each of the stars battled fan boy anger over their casting and knocked their roles out of the park. Ben Affleck is fantastic as Batman and brings the darkest version of the character to the screen to date. Gal Gadot is breathtaking as Wonder Woman. She is elegant and powerful and a perfect casting for the Amazon princess. Henry Cavill‘s performance is a bit hollow, but I believe that has more to do with his character arc and less to do with the actor himself. Jesse Eisenberg was fantastic as the menacing Lex Luthor. His portrayal is very different from previous incarnations of the character and he creates a perfect version for this new dark cinematic universe. The one low point in the cast is Amy Adams as Lois Lane. Her sole purpose in the film was to show up and be rescued and denied this wonderful actress a chance to help move the story forward. This is a far cry from the character we were give in Man of Steel.

Overall, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice is a good film, but not a great film. There are elements of an epic movie underneath the chaos and that’s unfortunate because the actors were giving it their all. Should you see the film? Absolutely. Draw your own conclusions as we will all experience the film differently, but for this comic book lover, I was left wanting more.

Stars:

3 out of 5

After credit scene?

None

Trailer:

Review: ‘THE BRAINWASHING OF MY DAD’ takes on The Right and how wrong they really are.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Gravitas Ventures Logo

in association with

JSenko Productions
and Cinco Dedos Peliculas

present

The Brainwashing of My Dad_PosterEveryday, I have the urge to block friends on Facebook. The vitriolic political rhetoric being thrown around in both “article” and meme form is more over the top than it has ever been. Thank the internet gods for Snopes. Now that we’re heavy into this circus of a presidential campaign, a new film could not be more timely. Director Jen Senko brings us her personal story in her doc THE BRAINWASHING OF MY DAD.

Right-wing cable news and “conservative” talk radio attract older Americans like graying moths to an angry flame. But why would someone who was either apolitical or a Democrat in younger days become addicted to conservative talk shows in their twilight years? Filmmaker Jen Senko wondered how her WWII veteran and Kennedy Democrat father had been transformed into a Fox News fanatic, suddenly and inexplicably railing against minorities, homosexuals, poor people, and Democrats. Using her dad as an entertaining example, Senko pulls back the curtain to expose the tools and tricks of the wizards behind the right-wing media revolution. And in discovering what happened to him, Senko reveals the all-too-chilling bigger picture of what’s happening behind-the-scenes to influence our national discourse.

The Republican Noise Machine. Illustration by Bill Plympton.

The Republican Noise Machine.
Illustration by Bill Plympton.

Delving into this phenomenon in interviews with industry insiders, Senko illustrates how Right-wing media is used to manipulate conservatives. (Speaking of illustrations, the film features fantastic original art from the great Bill Plympton.) In memos and interviews, Roger Ailes and Rupert Murdoch openly admit how they use FOX News to turn people into sheeple for pure profit, and how the term “Liberal Media” was another product of the machine. “War on Christmas”? Yeah, that’s another doozy pumped out to infuriate for entertainment purposes.

Check out this clip from the film:

Clip #7: Language is Not Neutral from Cinco Dedos Peliculas on Vimeo.

Frank Luntz discusses his language techniques.

Frank Luntz discusses his language techniques.

But, it’s not just Senko’s father we’re privy to. Hundreds of people reached out to her to tell their story of how they “lost” family members to conservative radio. The film has a wonderful mix of informative visuals. The chronological breakdown of the industry is user guide friendly, with examples of each step in it’s creation. It is certainly beyond successful in it’s history lesson, though I fear it may be preaching to the choir. Democrats will adore this film, there is no doubt about it. Trying to get a viewing audience on the far right may prove just a difficult as trying to talk foreign policy with Donald Trump. (Too soon?)

The right-wing media boat pushing National Thought. Illustration by Bill Plympton.

The right-wing media boat pushing National Thought.
Illustration by Bill Plympton.

You can check out THE BRAINWASHING OF MY DAD today in theaters and on VOD and I highly recommend you do. A little knowledge is a powerful thing.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jdd6lEu9SWA&feature=youtu.be

Directed by: JEN SENKO

Narrated by: JEN SENKO and MATTHEW MODINE 

Produced by: MATTHEW MODINE & ADAM RACKOFF 

Featuring animation by Academy Award nominee BILL PLYMPTON 

 

Official Website: www.thebrainwashingofmydad.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thebrainwashingofmydadmovie?ref=hl Twitter: @brainwashingdad

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_brainwashing_of_my_dad/

Opening Theatrically in New York (Cinema Village) and Los Angeles (Laemmle Music Hall) on Friday, March 18 and on VOD (iTunes, GOOGLE PLAY, VUDU and many more)

Review: ‘THE CONFIRMATION’ tackles faith, family, and forgiveness.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

saban films logo

presents

In Select Theaters and On Demand Friday, March 18th 

The Confirmation poster

Clive Owen shines in this irresistible comedy as Walt, a down-on-his luck carpenter tasked with entertaining his eight-year-old son Anthony while Anthony’s mom (Maria Bello) and her new husband are away. But when Walt’s prized toolbox is stolen, a quiet father-and-son weekend turns into an adventure of a lifetime. Aided by an oddball drywall repairman (Patton Oswalt), Walt and Anthony go on a wildly funny search for the thieves—and find something they never imagined: a true family connection. Also featuring performances by Matthew Modine, Robert Forster, Stephen Tobolowsky, and Tim Blake Nelson.

clive owen and jeadan LieberherOn the heels of his beautiful script for Nebraska, writer/director Bob Nelson brings heart and levity to what might otherwise seem to be a mundane scenario. The estrangement of an alcoholic father and his young son is nothing new, but by adding a religious element to the mix, it makes for a funny and honest look into the innocence of a child’s mind. Clive Owen‘s portrayal of Walt is raw and real. You empathize with his struggle to do right by his son. Speaking of Anthony, St. Vincent prodigy Jaeden Lieberher is, once again, a star. His purity in presence and intention glow as a young boy thrust into religion by his Mother. Caught in between parents of opposite end spectrum, he is an old soul, yet is constantly discovering when it is okay to push social boundaries. Owen and Lieberher are a perfect pairing. Nelson’s script allows both actors to take the reins as the story progresses. Each character has the opportunity to emotionally care for the other in a truly lovely dynamic.

LOL_0537The subtlety of the film is what makes it so successful. In an era of overblown CGI fare, Bob Nelson gives us an honest to goodness family story. The Confirmation is a joy.

The Confirmation Trailer from Saban Films on Vimeo.

In Select Theaters and On Demand Friday, March 18th 

ABOUT WRITER/DIRECTOR, BOB NELSON

BOB NELSON is a screenwriter, director, and producer, whose script “Nebraska” was produced in 2013 for Paramount Pictures and directed by Alexander Payne.  The film starred Bruce Dern, Will Forte, June Squibb, and Stacy Keach.  It was nominated for six Academy Awards including Best Original Screenplay, and received the Best First Screenplay award at the Independent Spirit Awards.

 In 2016 Saban Films is releasing Nelson’s directorial debut from his original screenplay, “The Confirmation,” starring Clive Owen, Maria Bello, Patton Oswalt, Matthew Modine, Tim Blake Nelson, Robert Forster, and Stephen Tobolowsky.

The TV pilot he wrote and executed produced for Amazon, “Highston,” has been picked up for a full season and will premiere in 2017.  It’s directed by Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris, and stars Lewis Pullman, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Chris Parnell, and Curtis Armstrong.

Before screenwriting, Nelson was a journalist, talk radio producer, and wrote for Comedy Central, Fox Television, VH-1, and Bill Nye the Science Guy.  Nelson was a performer in the original Bill Nye PBS series, “Bill Nye the Science Guy” and a writer and performer for “Eyes of Nye.”

In the 1990s, Nelson was a cast member, writer, director, and segment producer for the iconic Seattle sketch show, “Almost Live!” on the NBC affiliate KING-TV.  The program was named the best local program in the United States for several years and won over 100 Emmys.  Nelson received five Emmys for writing and one for performing.  Besides a two year run on Comedy Central, “Almost Live!” was twice syndicated nationally.

Nelson was born in Yankton, South Dakota and grew up in the Seattle, Washington area.  He currently lives on Whidbey Island, north of Seattle, with his wife Valerie.

 

Review: ‘BARNEY THOMSOM’ makes murder relatively complicated.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Gravitas Ventures Logobarney thomson posterDirected by and starring Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty, Trainspotting, 28 Weeks Later) in his directorial debut the film features Emma Thompson (Sense & Sensibility, Saving Mr. Banks), Ray Winstone (The Departed) and Tom Courtenay (Quartet).

Barney Thomson, awkward, diffident, Glasgow barber, lives a life of desperate mediocrity and his uninteresting life is about to go from 0 to 60 in five seconds, as he enters the grotesque and comically absurd world of the serial killer.

barney thomson robert carlyleRobert Carlyle is a real winner in his directorial debut. His portrayal of Barney is a wonderful mixture of neurotic, depressed, and pathetic Mama’s boy. A far cry from his Once Upon A Time role as Mr Gold. His skill as a director is plain to see. Barney Thomson has an upbeat and fun vibe. If you combined Baz Lurhmann‘s Strictly Ballroom, Richard Shepard’s Dom Hemingway, with a twist of Tarantino, you’ve got the eclectic style of Barney Thomson. Casting Emma Thompson as his mother, Cemolina, was pure genius. Their chemistry is unmatched. Wait until you see the prosthetics on Emma. The slightly overdone (and orange) nature of the makeup, creates the perfect backdrop for this larger than life character.

robert and emma thompson barney thomsonThe dialogue from Richard Cowan and Colin McLaren is quippy and hilarious. Utilizing the a beautifully absurd storyline combined with rapid fire Scottish rhetoric makes for the perfect combination in style and comedy. The soundtrack is incredible and Fabian Wagner‘s cinematography is stunning. It’s clear that Carlyle knows his stuff and I, for one,  look forward to any future endeavors. Barney Thomson is a hit.

BARNEY THOMSON On Demand February 2nd, 2016  and in theaters March 11th, 2016.

 

Directed By:                   Robert Carlyle (directorial debut)

Written By:                     Richard Cowan and Colin McLaren based on the novel by Douglas Lindsay

Produced By:                 John G. Lenic, Kaleena Kiff, Holly Brydson, Brian Coffey, Holly Brydson and Richard Cowan

Starring:                           Emma Thompson (Sense & Sensibility, Saving Mr. Banks), Robert Carlyle (The Full Monty, Trainspotting, 28 Weeks Later), Ray Winstone (The Departed), Tom Courtenay (Quartet)

Distributed by:             Gravitas Ventures

Running Time:              96 Minutes

Rating:                               NR

Review: ‘Yalom’s Cure’ fights darkness and seeks illumination

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Yalom's Cure-poster

Irvin D. Yalom, is an inspiring, 80-year-old psychotherapist who believes the best cure for many of our everyday concerns are the relationships we have throughout our lives. Irvin studied the many ways of psychoanalysis and came to the conclusion that love is a powerful tool and necessity when it comes to finding happiness. Yalom’s Cure, directed and written by Sabine Gisiger, brings a beautifully constructed film of Irvin’s teachings, written works and practice, all  interwoven into his own therapeutic journey through life.

Yaloms Cure-yalom_hat

The film is calming, moving and beautiful. For a man who puts so much of his personal life out in the open, all for the benefit to others is a selfless thing. This film is therapeutic within itself, by helping audiences realize some of the things we once saw as problems may not be as bad as they seem, and instead opens our eyes to where true life happiness really lies.The US Premiere for Yalom’s Cure is on March 11th at the Laemmle Theaters in Los Angeles.

4/5 Stars

Official Selection Festival Del Film Locarno 2014

See the trailer below!

Yaloms Cure-sabine_gisiger

 

 

 

Review: Norwegian disaster film, THE WAVE, hits you like a ton of bricks… or a giant ass tsunami.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

The wave posterMother Nature is not one to be trifled with. The Earth is going to do as it sees fit, no matter what our plans may be as humans. THE WAVE is based on a very real “what-if” scenario. Not all too different from the horrors that will most certainly be coming our way in the future, if we don’t get out proverbial shit together. And very much like The Wave, this is not a matter of if, but when. The wave cast still

The Wave is an epic thriller that takes place in the majestic village of Geiranger, one of the most spectacular tourist locations on the planet. There are more than 300 unstable mountainsides in Norway, one of the largest being “Åkerneset.” When – not if – the mountain collapses due to widening cracks, the rock will crash into the fjord below, creating a massive tsunami that will hit the community. All inhabitants will have just 10 minutes to reach higher ground before tragedy strikes.

The wave mom, son, extra stillThe film centers around geologist, Kristian and his family. Leaving his current position as safety gatekeeper for the village, Kristian has a tough time letting go on his final day on the job, and for good reason. Testing fate is not something that comes easily when an entire population is at stake. When the alarms sound and the what-if becomes a reality, Kristian will do whatever it takes to save anyone he can from impending doom.
The wave still
The film has incredible effects. This is Norway’s Deep Impact. If you replaced the cast with big budget Hollywood A-listers, this could have easily been a film made in the US. THE WAVE is Scandinavia’s first-ever disaster movie. It has broken box office records in Norway and was their official entry for the Academy Awards. Hollywood is taking notice of director Roar Uthaug (Cold Prey). He just signed on to direct the upcoming Tomb Raider reboot. The cast is incredibly solid, especially our leading man, Kristoffer Joner (The Revenant). I came to care deeply for each character. The script makes an interesting statement about survival and the human condition. If you had only minutes to escape a fire, flood, or tornado, who/what would you take with you? Do you lend a hand to those outside your intimate circle? I was truly impressed with The Wave. Don’t let the language barrier stop you from checking out this well made film. (There are English subtitles) THE WAVE will bowl you over with action and remind you to respect the hell out of the environment.

THE WAVE comes to theaters and VOD today, March 4th.

Review: EMELIE is a parent’s worst nightmare.

Posted on by — 1 Comment ↓

Dark Sky Films Logopresents

EMELIE

Directed by: Michael Thelin

Starring: Sarah Bolger (ABC’s “Once Upon a Time,” AMC’s “Into the Badlands” )

EMELIE poster

 In Theaters and On Demand March 4, 2016 

As a parent, all you want is for your family babysitter to care for your kids like you would.. When you do find a reliable sitter, you hold onto then for dear life. But what happens when, once in a  while, your beloved child care provider is unavailable? You might panic and start calling other parents for recommendations, but if you’re really lucky, your babysitter has an alternative option already in the pipe line. Evening saved, right? What if the kids don’t like them? They’re probably just overreacting. What if it’s for a good reason? EMELIE is a parent’s worst nightmare.

Emelie_web_1

 

As their parents head out for a date in the city, the three young Thompson children immediately take to their new babysitter, Anna (Sarah Bolger, Into the Badlands, Once Upon a Time), who seems like a dream come true: she’s sweet, fun, and lets them do things that break all of their parents’ rules. But as Anna’s interactions with them take on a more sinister tone, the kids realize that their caretaker may not be who she claims to be. Soon it’s up to big brother Jacob to protect his siblings from the increasingly nefarious intentions of a very disturbed woman whose weapon is trust, and whose target is innocence.

Featuring tour-de-force performances from Bolger and its three young leads, EMELIE is a multidimensional, nail-biting thriller that asks the question: how can you put an end to horror after you’ve already let it in?

Emelie_3

Sarah Bolger stuns as the babysitter from Hell. Soft and cool one minute and downright sociopathic the next. Her backstory makes her motives all the more incredible. Never is there a moment when you don’t feel beyond uncomfortable. You never know what she’ll do with the constant passive aggressive look in her eyes. It is completely terrifying. Scene stealer award goes to Bolger’s foil, Joshua Rush, as Jacob. He is perfect from beat to beat. It’s a complex role for any actor, let alone someone so young. Think a slightly older Jacob Tremblay from ROOM. That’s the quality Rush gives in Emelie. He deserves much more attention and I look forward to SEEING more of him in the future, as the majority of his current body of work has been voice. Director Michael Thelin has created a quite a roller coaster of  fear. I was off my game from the first frame to the very last. EMELIE will make any parent think twice about who’s really watching their children.

 In Theaters and On Demand March 4, 2016 

#EmelieMovie
@DarkSkyFilms

Review: Now available on VOD, film festival favorite ‘ANGEL OF NANJING’ soars.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Balance Films and Blue Bus Productions PresentsANGEL OF NANJING

In the US, depression is a subject we either tackle with prescription drugs or after a suicide. Most of us are so consumed with our own lives, we oftentimes fail to look beyond the emotional scope of our own noses. In a new documentary by Jordan Horowitz and Frank L. Ferendo, ANGEL OF NANJING, one solitary man makes it his mission to save the souls on The Yangtze River Bridge.

SYNOPSIS:

The Yangtze River Bridge in Nanjing is one of the most famous landmarks in China. It is also the most popular place in the world to commit suicide. After hearing reports about this from the news, Chen Si, an average man with no professional training, decided to do something about it. On September 19, 2003, he went to the bridge with a heart-shaped sign that read, “Nothing is impossible. When God closes a door he opens a window.” That morning he saved someone, and has dedicated his life to standing vigil on that bridge ever since. Incredibly, he’s saved over 300 lives since he began.

 

Despite all the lives he’s saved, Chen’s mission has taken an unexpected toll on him. He feels incredible guilt when he learns someone committed suicide while he wasn’t at the bridge, and even more when he is there and is still unable to save them. He’s become a heavy smoker and drinker, and often finds himself battling with depression. He is also under growing pressure from his family to quit, who cannot understand why he spends so much time and money helping others when he has his own family to worry about.

ANGEL OF NANJING

The film has an incredibly organic feeling from its handheld camera work to the pulled back moments when Chen is speaking to the men and women so seemingly desperate to jump. Once rescued, the audience feels as if they’re part of the healing as they are treated to intimate face to face conflict resolution. It is a perfect snapshot into the Chinese culture. Suicide is considered extraordinarily shameful. Chinese media always refers to a desperate or depressed individual as in a “bad mood” in any aftermath coverage. Once you accept the familial implications of a suicide, you begin to understand Chen’s pragmatic approach. Cultural tactics are perfectly balanced with genuine tenderness resulting in incredibly touching rescues. Chen is a complex man, struggling with the sense of responsibility to those in such despair and his own happiness. Horowitz and Ferendo do absolute justice to Chen and this unique scenario. As an added bonus, the film’s score is both haunting and glorious. It is something I would seek out on its own. As a whole, ANGEL OF NANJING is a beautiful story of hope and humanity.

ANGEL OF NANJING

ANGEL OF NANJING is now available! Check out the trailer below…

Award-winning documentary debuted on VOD (iTunes, Amazon, and Google Play) February 16

Winner – Best Documentary, Phoenix Film Festival
Winner – Best Documentary, Catalina Film Festival
Winner – Best Documentary, SaMo Indie Fest
Winner – Best Documentary, Big Apple Film Festival
Winner – Best Documentary, New Jersey Film Festival

Directed by Jordan Horowitz and Frank Ferendo, ANGEL OF NANJING tells the story of an ordinary man doing something extraordinary, and at great personal sacrifice. It is a personal portrait of a man, who in a country of over one billion people, has chosen to dedicate himself to making a difference, one person at a time. 

Review: ‘Eddie the Eagle’

Posted on by — Leave a reply

eddie-eagle-movie-poster

Dreams do come true for those who strive to achieve them, that’s the message of Eddie the Eagle, an inspiring tale of a young man who wouldn’t stop until he reached his goal of becoming an Olympic athlete. The film stars Taron Egerton as Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards, a British skier who in 1988 became the first competitor to represent Great Britain in Olympic ski jumping, but it’s the story of how he got there that is most extraordinary.

Eddie the Eagle-5

Eddie isn’t your normal determined athlete; as a matter of fact, Eddie isn’t what you would call an athlete at all. From an early age, young Eddie Edwards had a dream to become an Olympic athlete and he didn’t care what sport it was, he just wanted to represent his country. He tried his luck at training for all sorts of events throughout his younger years, but nothing seemed to be the right fit. It became apparent to Eddie that he was looking into the wrong sort of sports as his limitations were holding him back, but a revelation came to him and he decided that skiing seemed the more logical choice to help him make the games. He became a good downhill skier, but he was told that he would never make the team. More determined than ever, he found his way to ski jumping. Why ski jumping? There were no other British ski jumpers with whom to compete for a place!

Eddie the Eagle-6

And this is where Eddie’s story takes flight. Against his parents better judgement, Eddie takes off for Germany to train at an Olympic ski jumping facility, but the sport is tougher than he thought. Enter Bronson Peary (Hugh Jackman), a disgraced former ski jumper turned slope maintenance guy who sees Eddie’s determination but little in the way of talent. Bronson, not looking to reunite with the sport that shunned him, initially deflects Eddie’s call for help, but ultimately decides to help him. The two unlikely allies begin a rough journey that they hope will land them on the slopes of the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary.

Eddie the Eagle-2

Director Dexter Fletcher tells Eddie’s wonderful story perfectly with minimal cliche’s and a ton of heart. Taron Egerton shows why he is one of the brightest stars in Hollywood today with his brilliant depiction of the titular character. Hugh Jackman works perfectly with Egerton and their chemistry is the reason the film works so perfectly.  Eddie the Eagle is a fantastic story of strong will and determination that will have you standing on your chair and flapping your arms like an eagle. A true testament to the human spirit and a story that will resonate with anyone who’s ever chased a dream.

Stars:

4 out of 5

After Credit Scene?

None

Trailer:

‘CABIN FEVER’ reboot leaves a familiar taste in your mouth.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

unnamed (2)

Presents

CABIN FEVER

A Film By Travis Zariwny

Executive Produced By Eli Roth

IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 12TH NEW YORK & LOS ANGELEScabin fever poster

In 2002, Writer/Director/Producer, Eli Roth, brought us the original Cabin Fever. I happened to be in college at the time and just finishing college. Already questioning the cleanliness of city dwelling, this film did not help. I  just kept hearing  Dave Matthews Band, “Don’t Drink The Water” over and over. Now, I know better. I tell out-of-towners that we have the best tap water in the country. In the wake of the Flint, Michigan disaster currently playing out in the national media, the release of Travis Zarwiny‘s reboot (With Roth as Exec. Prod) is both terrifying and timely. CABINFEVER2016REVFEAT

The set up is exactly the same. Five friends head to a remote cabin, man with flesh-eating disease contaminates the drinking water, people start to die. With a cast including Gage  Golightly (Teen Wolf) and Dustin Ingram (Paranormal Activity 3), the acting is strong. Shot over the course of 20 days in Oregon, this incarnation is pretty much the exact same script, save a few minor details; updated technology, weaponry, social media shout references, and some gender bending in a role. I was impressed with the practical effects in the original. Seeing how closely the reboot stayed true, oftentimes with shot for shot symmetry, there is one big uptake; gore factor. I thought you couldn’t possibly get any grosser than the first, and boy was I wrong. As a horror vet, even I had to look away for one moment in particular that I had been anticipating having to do with the character of Karen. I might just prefer the 2002 ending as I admit this version had me scratching my head a bit after the credits begin to roll. Anyhow, the reboot is a pretty good splatter-fest for those who weren’t treated to the original.

Executive producer Eli Roth presents this reboot of his instant classic gorefest, which features all new characters and all new kills. This story is familiar: fresh out of college, a group of five friends retreat to a remote cabin in the woods for one last week of partying- only to become snacks for a gruesome, flesh-eating virus. What’s surprising are the ingenious new deaths, which offer a fresh spin on a horror-comedy milestone. With Gage Golightly (Teen Wolf) and Dustin Ingram (Paranormal Activity 3).

Directed by: Travis Zariwny

Executive Produced by: Eli Roth

Starring: Gage Golightly, Dustin Ingram, Nadine Crocker, Matthew Daddario & Samuel Davis

IN THEATERS FEBRUARY 12TH NEW YORK & LOS ANGELES

Review: The raw nature of ‘Glassland’ will leave you broken hearted

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Glassland_poster

America has fortunately be given another profoundly great Irish Film. After the overwhelming feelings of isolation we felt with the Irish film, Room (2015); our emotions take another beating when witnessing the physical and mental consequences of alcoholism in Gerard Barrett’s Glassland. The film had an incredible cast who really blew me away with their performances. Alcoholism is not a joke, and this film will show audiences just how heartbreaking it really is.

Glassland-2

John (Jack Reynor) and his mother Jean (Toni Collette) reside in a low-income suburb in Dublin, Ireland. With no help from his mother, John works all night driving a taxi to help provide for his family, all while his mother falls victim to her disease. She believes a better life is found at the bottom of a bottle, even while knowing the impact her choices have on her family. Their story shows the sacrifices that have to be made from both John and Jean in order to create some hope for their future.

Glassland-3

Barrett’s shots throughout the film were powerful. The change in technique and the difference in the camera’s movements really set the tone for each scene. There are times where the camera is motionless in a single room, making the audience feel as trapped as Jack feels in the scene. Later, Barrett changes over to a shaky camera technique, giving the audience more of an unsettled feeling. The film overall is simple, and despite not having a very complex story, it is raw and beautifully demonstrated. This film shows us the heartbreaking truth that many people in this world deal with everyday;  without the amazing performances from the cast and well executed cinematography, this meaningful film might of fallen through the cracks. Check out Glassland in theaters on February 12th.

WINNER – SPECIAL JURY PRIZE – SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL 2015
BEST FILM – GALWAY FILM FESTIVAL

3/5 Stars

Review: ‘Deadpool’

Posted on by — 1 Comment ↓

teaser-one-sheet

Actor Ryan Reynolds has been passionate about bringing Marvel icon Deadpool to the big screen ever since his failed portrayal as Wade Wilson in 2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine and, after much demand, Reynolds got his wish. The actor, along with director Tim Miller, have created one of the most faithful adaptations of a comic book hero ever to grace the silver screen. Get your chimichanga’s ready cause the “Merc with the Mouth” is about to blow your mind.

deadpool-gallery-05-gallery-image

Ryan Reynolds plays Wade Wilson, a mercenary who spends most of his time extorting bad people and hanging out with Vanessa (Morena Baccarin), a call girl and the love of his life. After finding out he’s been diagnosed with cancer, Wade consents to a top secret program run by Ajax (Ed Skein), a deranged scientist who uses torture to unearth the dormant mutant gene in his human subjects, a gene in which he hopes to cure Wade’s cancer and turn him into a super soldier. The experiment ultimately leave Wilson with accelerated healing powers, but also leaves him badly scarred in the process. In an attempt to right the wrong that has been done to him, Wilson becomes the anti-hero known as Deadpool and unleashes his brand of justice on all of those associated with the program. When Ajax makes things even more personal and goes after Vanessa, Deadpool enlists the help of his best friend Weasel (T.J. Miller) and X-Men Colossus (Stefan Kapičić) and Negasonic Teenage Warhead (Brianna Hildebrand) to rescue Vanessa and hurt a lot of people…really, really bad.

deadpool-gallery-04-gallery-image

Deadpool is a labor of love and you can tell that everyone involved truly gave everything they have to make this a near perfect action comedy. Director Tim Miller sits back and manages the filming and trusts his actors to bring out the absolute best in their characters. Ryan Reynolds is absolutely superb as the titular character. Reynolds quick delivery and dry sense of humor make him perfect for the role and he delivers a portrayal of Deadpool that fans will embrace with roaring applause. The supporting cast of T.J. Miller, Morena Baccarin, Ed Skein, Brianna Hildebrand and others are each rather enjoyable, but let’s be honest here, this is Reynolds’ movie and the film lives and dies with his performance.

deadpool-gallery-01-gallery-image

Overall, Deadpool is not a film for everyone, especially not for children! The language and violence and graphic nudity will make it a hard sell for some as well, but the film is an absolute blast and one that will entertain those who are not easily offended. I can honestly say, as a Deadpool comic fan, that this is the film fans have been waiting for and they won’t be disappointed.

Stars:

4 1/2 out of 5

After credit scene?

Yes! 2 of them, so stay thru the credits til the lights come up!

Trailer:

Two newly restored gems from AGNÈS VARDA and starring JANE BIRKIN now available on Amazon and on iTunes and Blu-Ray March 8th.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Cinelicious Pics Logo

CINELICIOUS PICS & CINE-TAMARIS PRESENT:

JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V.

and

KUNG-FU MASTER! 
Jane B_Poster

JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V.

“I’ll look at you, but not at the camera. It could be a trap,” whispers Jane Birkin shyly into Agnès Varda‘s ear at the start of JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V. The director of CLEO FROM 5 TO 7 and VAGABOND once again paints a portrait of a woman, this time in a marvelously Expressionistic way. “It’s like an imaginary bio-pic,” says Varda. Jane, of course, is the famed singer (“Je t’aime … Moi non plus”), actress (BLOW UP), fashion icon (the Hermes Birkin bag) and longtime muse to Serge Gainsbourg. As Varda implies, JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V. abandons the traditional bio-pic format, favoring instead a freewheeling mix of gorgeous and unexpected fantasy sequences.

Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg in Jane B. par Agnès V. © Cinelicious Pics

Jane Birkin and Serge Gainsbourg in Jane B. par Agnès V.
© Cinelicious Pics

Newly-restored from the original 35mm camera negative, overseen by director Varda herself. The film has a quirky appeal. With a blend of personal narrative juxtaposed with fine art and Greek history, Birkin speaks of her life, fears, future plans. Varda leads her through a wondering maze of musing. It’s an unusual and unique peak into the mind of  both women.

Kung-Fu Master

KUNG-FU MASTER!

A lovely, bittersweet companion piece to JANE B. PAR AGNÈS V., KUNG-FU MASTER! has nothing to do with martial arts – the film’s title comes from an arcade video game played obsessively in the film by a teenaged boy, Julien (played by Varda’s real-life son with husband Jaques Demy). Jane Birkin delivers one of her finest performances as a lonely 40-year old woman who finds herself falling in love with the 14-year old Julien – but is it romance, or a desperate attempt to turn back time in the face of middle age? A real family affair, Birkin’s daughters, Charlotte Gainsbourg and Lou Doillon, her child with well-known filmmaker Jacques Doillon, also appear in the film.

Jane Birkin and Charlotte Gainsbourg in Kung-Fu Master! © Cinelicious Pics

Jane Birkin and Charlotte Gainsbourg in Kung-Fu Master!
© Cinelicious Pics

Long unavailable in the US, the film has been newly-restored from the original 35mm camera negative. The film is a perfect time capsule from 80’s French cinema. Addressing the AIDS crisis through nonchalance and jokes, capturing the effortless sensuality of Birkin, and highlighting the differences in the use of sexuality on screen in Europe Vs America. The performances are, as expected, top notch. The use of Birkin’s children is brilliant. The natural banter, even when the scenario might seem unnatural given the relation, is captivating. As a first time viewer of these pieces, I was glad to have watched KUNG-FU MASTER! first. The two should most definitely been seen back to back. Both titles are currently streaming on Amazon and will be available on Blu-Ray and iTunes March 8  (additional VOD platforms to be announced)

Jane Birkin and Mathieu Demy in Kung-Fu Master! © Cinelicious Pics

Jane Birkin and Mathieu Demy in Kung-Fu Master!
© Cinelicious Pics

 

BLU-RAY SPECIAL FEATURES INCLUDE:

 Video interview with Agnès Varda by Miranda July
 
Essay by Sandy Fitterman-Lewis

[FLASHBACK] Tribeca Film Festival review & podcast: TUMBLEDOWN will win hearts and fans. Including the audio from our roundtable interview with Jason Sudeikis, Dianna Agron, Director Sean Mewshaw, and Writer Desiree Van Til.

Posted on by — Leave a reply

Tumbledown

Music is part of our souls. It can heal, it can hurt, it’s like a sense memory. We’ve lost great artists in their prime like, Leonard Cohen, Kurt Cobain, and Elliot Smith. The impact of their death is felt each time we hear one of their songs. Imagine, for a moment, that your very favorite artist suddenly dies. Now imagine you were married to them. This is the very premise of TUMBLEDOWN. Hannah is the widow of indie folk singer Hunter Miles. She is hounded by gossip seekers on a daily basis. When Hofstra professor and true fan Andrew tries to get in touch with her, she brushes him off… and brushes him off again… and again. Only until realizing that her dream of writing Hunter’s story is one she cannot accomplish on her own, does she let her highly guarded heart open just a crack. Andrew and Hannah strike a deal; Andrew writes a biography on her terms for $50k. With the encouragement of his music industry girlfriend Finley, Andrew drives from NYC to Maine and moves into Hannah’s guest bedroom. He is then exposed to a world a true fan can only dream of, with one massive catch. Hannah will not stop mourning her late husband. Can fan and family see eye to eye. Can trust break down the walls of Hannah’s suffering? Will intellect stifle healing. In a film where it’s head vs heart, who wins?

Tumbledown_Press_1 TribecaRebecca Hall is flawless as Hannah. Witty, independent, strong headed, Hall plays a woman unwilling to move on with her life. Jason Sudeikis as Andrew is unstoppable. Smart, and quippy as ever, this role is something new for Sudeikis. I love this side of him and hope that the industry, and more writers, take note of his innate ability to be funny in a non-slapstick kind of way. These two are an absolute powerhouse as they match wits with one another in each scene. Rounding out an incredible cast is Dianna Agron as Finley. Life after GLEE fame should treat her well if she keeps up such a strong, believable presence on the big screen. Blythe Danner and Richard Masur play Hannah’s parents. Deeply supportive and yet totally realistic, these two are the perfect counter balance to Andrew’s inability to let go of presumption. Finally, Griffin Dunne plays Hannah’s editor and owner of the town beloved book shop. He brings warmth and charm only a small town holds.tumbledownjasonsudeikisrebeccahall

The film was 8 years in the making. Writer Desi Van Til thoughtfully crafted this story partly as a personal healing piece for a lost friend. She skillfully captures the heart of New England, the desperation of grief, and the hold that music has on everyone’s heart. For Director Sean Mewshaw, his first feature length film is a total success. It’s shot in such a way that truly shows the quaintness of the area. Finding “Hunter Miles” or singer Damien Jurado was one of his triumphs. He perfectly encapsulates the feel of the character that was created by Desi, Rebecca, Jason, and Sean. Coming in after the film was already in the can, with his music and lyrics, he “created” a musician we’re all discovering for the first time, but feel like we’ve now lost as well. It might also help that Sean and Desi are husband and wife! This team is a real tour de force and without any solid knowledge (only mere mentions) I predict many captivating projects coming down the pipeline from these two.

Grief is something so personal. No matter how big the hit we feel, it still leaves a hole in our hearts and souls. Sometimes music helps. Sometimes it’s a trigger. Either way, the songs live on long after we’re gone. So sing, I say. TUMBLEDOWN is easily in my top three narrative selections to come out the this year’s festival. It is a must see and definitely a must hear.jasonsudeikistumbledownrebeccahall

I was fortunate enough to attend a roundtable interview with Dianna Agron, Jason Sudeikis, Desi Van Til and Sean Mewshaw. We talk issues from the film, insight into the project’s journey, as well as Jason and Dianna’s other releases at the fest. Take a listen to the absolute joy around the table: *You can hear me ask a question about journalistic responsibility and one about Dianna’s similarities to the character of Hannah.* Enjoy the voices of TUMBLEDOWN!

Originally posted April 20, 2015