Official DOCTOR WHO Soundboard/Alert Tones now available for your Whovian pleasure… and the Series 9 trailer!

Posted on July 10, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

EXTERMINATE – FANTASTIC – GERONIMO! For the first time ever, you can have your favorite Doctor Who phrases as your iPhone® or iPad® alert tone. With sound bites from multiple Doctors, a variety of companions, and even his most fearsome enemies, there’s something cool for any Doctor Who fan. Doctor Who Alert Tones are available exclusively for iPhone® or iPad® at iTunes.com/DoctorWho. Allons-y!

For a fun sneak peek, check out the soundboard below, which we recommend clicking through now, over and over.

Series 9 of Doctor Who will air on BBCAMERICA on September 19th… with some very special guests… Enjoy.

Shiny new trailer for all you #Firefly fans from Alan Tudyk and Nathan Fillion’s new ‘CON MAN” series

Posted on July 10, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

If you are a true Browncoat, you will be overjoyed at the upcoming series written and directed by Alan Tudyk. Very clearly poking fun at themselves and embracing the fandom that has kept both Joss Whedon‘s Firefly and Serenity alive and kicking in the minds of millions, Con Man is the perfect way to celebrate two of our favorite sci-fi heroes and all that comes with being part of such a short-lived but much loved series. The trailer below is filled with surprises and some incredible cameos that we anticipate are just the beginning of this hilarious venture. If you didn’t already know, the entire project was crowdfunded on Indiegogo. This is truly the perfect way to illustrate what a big deal Firefly is/was to fans and celebrate the humor attached to it’s nostalgia. While we’re sad that it was cancelled, we’ll gladly open our hearts to Con Man… and still hold out hope for a future reboot… We have a hard time letting go.

Liz’s Review: ‘The Little Death’ delivers some sexy education.

Posted on June 25, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

Sex comedies are all the rage these days. Films like The Overnight and Sleeping With Other People, two of this year’s Tribeca Film Festival favorites will be coming your way in July and September respectively. Until then, The Little Death will fill the void, pun potentially intended. There are also lots of MILFs on the adult dating sites so you can easily find a MILF near you for casual sex and have all of the kinky fun you ever wanted.Five couples living in suburban Sydney have very different but fascinating sexual desires, that included yolo sex toys to improve pleasure. Ans, yes, while the film seemingly centers around the topic of sex, The Little Death is actually about intimacy. The couples are as follows: Paul and Maeve- One with a suggested fear of commitment and the other with a rape fantasy while doing livecam sex chat. Phil and Maureen- Phil is a submissive man who is only aroused when his cold hearted wife is asleep. Dan and Evie- marriage therapist suggests role play might help, until Dan’s priorities take a turn. Richard and Rowena- Trying to conceive, sex becomes more about purpose and less about pleasure. Finally, Monica and Sam- She is a deaf video play interpreter and Sam is her customer. Each of these characters wants something from their partner. Getting it comes with some truly hilarious and oftentimes heartbreaking consequences. Get the best dildos from bboutique, here you get the best variety of sex toys for women.The script is brilliantly written and directed by Josh Lawson, who also beautifully portrays Paul. The structure is presented in form of a sexual manual and is entirely funny and informative. It allows the audience to open their own dialogue about deep seeded personal issues, both sexual and emotional, tackling such things as self loathing, fetishes, relationship shifts, and manipulation. Even if the particular kinks aren’t something you’ve experienced, the film is relatable in some way on every level. It’s a perfect balance of heartwarming and laugh out loud hysterical. With a superb ensemble cast, a fun soundtrack, and excellent writing, The Little Death should most definitely be on your list this weekend. The winner of the Audience Award at this year’s SXSW, you can count on a little something for everyone. I must take a moment to acknowledge what I think is the most beautiful and revelatory story in the entire film. The unique final scene between Monica and Sam, is some of the best dialogue I’ve seen in some time. 50% of which is in sign language, it allows us to completely break down the barriers of communication in a very literal sense. Every moment between actors Erin James and T.J.Powers is perfection. It’s the perfect ending to an already out of this world indie gem. Even if the rest of the film weren’t as fantastic as it is, this scene alone brings laughter and happiness to your head and your heart. Most definitely seek this film out. You cannot go wrong.

The Little Death comes to theaters and VOD Friday, June 26th.

SYNOPSIS: The secret lives of five suburban couples living in Sydney reveal both the fetishes and the repercussions that come with sharing them.

Country: Australia

Language: English

Release Date: 26 June 2015 (USA)

Filming Locations: Sydney, Australia

LIz’s Review: ‘Bound To Vengeance’ holds us captive.

Posted on June 25, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

IFC Midnight has given us a slew of great genre features in the past such as ATM, Exam, Dead Snow, and The Snowtown Murders (all available to stream on Netflix). Their newest release, Bound To Vengeance challenges the female protagonist role that we’re used to seeing in horror: Girl equals helpless victim, let’s leave the policing to the manly cops. No cops in sight, our lead takes action into her own hands.The film’s opening credit sequence is immediately reminiscent of Texas Chainsaw with a lone beat up van swiftly cruising down a deserted highway, though in this story the inhabitant of the car is our villain. Bound To Vengeance pulls no punches as the mental ride follows directly after those very opening credits. Our mystery man carries a tray with homemade soup down an eerie hall and into a locked basement room. There we find Eve, a young, slender woman chained to the floor. She manages to escape and in her attempt to get away, she realizes that she is not the only girl being held captive. She needs her captor. Fashioning a noose out of items inside the rundown house, Eve strikes a deal. He tells her where the others are and she drops him off at a hospital… But, even the best laid plans easily go awry.The script is truly unexpected. Just when you think you’ve figured out what is going on, plot twist. You have to respect the ever changing scenery and manipulation. While it may not be a 5 star film, I will say, I had to know what the truth was and wanted to see Eve kick some major ass. Speaking of which, Tina Ivlev plays our heroine with an honest determination. She’s not a super ninja or hyper intelligent prodigy, she is a normal, albeit, incredibly resourceful and strong woman. That is what I appreciated most about the script. She was a girl who just wanted to save the others and in turn come to terms with her own captivity. Richard Tyson gives us our villain, Phil. It’s a complex performance filled with masterfully sick, power-struggle laden dialogue. How much do we trust Phil? Should we trust Phil at all? Once you get to the end of the movie, you realize that all the clues were there to begin with. Bound to Vengeance could have easily been a mini series. There is much more to this story and I for one would look forward to a sequel.

In Theaters and on VOD Friday, June 26th.

Film Synopsis

BOUND TO VENGEANCE is a gritty revenge thriller about a young woman, EVE (Tina Ivlev), who fights back and manages to escape a malicious abductor. However, after discovering she may not be the only victim, Eve unravels a darker truth and decides to turn the tables on her captor. The film is directed by J.M. Cravioto and stars breakout actress Tina Ivlev and Richard Tyson. The screenplay was written by Rock Shaink, Jr., and Keith Kjornes.

BOUND TO VENGEANCE

Directed by: José Manuel Cravioto

Produced by: Alex Garcia, Rodolfo Marquez, Daniel Posada

Cast: Tina Ivlev (The Devil’s in the Details), Richard Tyson (Moonlighting),

Bianca Malinowski (Midnight Bayou)

TRT: 80 minutes

Language: English

Genre: Thriller / Horror

Watch here for FREE Rose McGowan’s short film ‘Dawn’ – Liz’s Review

Posted on June 22, 2015 by Melissa Hanson — Leave a reply

From the opening shot of Dawn, you know something is not quite right. In an eerie flash-forward, the scene is set for the directorial debut of Rose McGowan (Jawbreakers, Planet Terror, Charmed). The story focuses on Tara Barr (God Bless America) who plays the title character. She is a shy and quiet teenager in mid last century America, donning saddle shoes and all. Clearly sheltered by strict parents, she is a rule following good girl. One smile to the local boy who works at the fill up station and she is smitten. Her innocence isn’t long lived when she invites the boy and his two friends over to listen to records while mom and dad are out of town. All she wants is some attention but, as everyone knows, peer pressure can be the end of who you truly are.

Watch below!!

This 17 minute short is so incredibly lush in it’s color pallet and the soundtrack truly captures the era. Tara is lovely on screen. Regardless of the year, this character is someone we either knew or were at some point in our adolescence. You see every honest beat in Barr’s eyes. You want everything to turn out alright for her in the end. The film left me literally breathless, heart racing and disturbed. I am so impressed with McGowan’s dark choices. The woman clearly has a strong point of view and I cannot wait to see what’s next.

Directed by: Rose McGowan
Written by: M.A. Fortin, Joshua John Miller
Cast: Tara Barr, Reiley McClendon, Hannah Marks, Michael Moskewicz, Julia Sanford, John Grady
TRT: 17 minutes
Country: USA
Langauge: English
Genre: Thriller

h/t Cinemit

Liz’s Review: Get raunchy with ‘BALLS OUT’

Posted on June 16, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

You never know what you’re gonna see at Tribeca Film Festival. One out of left field film from last year was BALLS OUT. Wrong sports metaphor in this case since this particular movie revolves around an intramural college flag football league. Starring a rag tag team of hilarious and talented people like Jake Lacy, Kate McKinnon, Nikki Reed, Beck Bennett, Jay Pharoah and many, many more, Balls Out pulls no punches when it comes to the A-typical sports genre movie. Caleb (Jake Lacy) is a fifth year senior with law school on the brain and an overbearing and hilariously high-on-life girlfriend (Kate McKinnon). Suddenly finding himself faced with having his future mapped out for him, he begins to reminisce about his freshman year and his flag football team’s- The Panthers- epic win over a douchebag rival team the Titans. Haunted by the how the first game ended with the paralysis of his best friend, Caleb struggles to commit to what makes him truly happy. Balls Out is an unapologetic underdog story, that’s frankly funny as hell. Every single sports cliche you can think of is admittedly thrown in your face. Training montages, two stoner fans acting as the league’s “official announcers”, hidden personal agendas, each Panther member being just slightly too weird for reality, and a rival captain so damn ridiculous you love to hate him. All this is admitted in the actual dialogue. The film never takes itself seriously at any moment, which is what makes it so great. I was not expecting to like this film at all, and it ended up being my favorite comedy of the fest last year.So let’s talk performances in Balls Out. Jake Lacy is, for lack of a better phrase, relatively straight laced, in comparison to the rest of the cast. Nikki Reed does an excellent job playing the girl who comes into Caleb’s life just when he needs it most. This was a nice departure for Reed coming off the Twilight series and a great follow up to her quirky performance in last year’s Murder of a Cat. She is cool and fun. Kate McKinnon steals every scene she is in. Since she joined SNL, I have been touting her as the new Amy Poehler. One wide-eyed look from this gal is comedy gold. Newly minted Panther head coach is played by Nick Kocher. Wher has this kis been all my life? He easily flips from just amusing to sidesplitting comedy with the ease of someone twice his age. How is he not in everything right now? Team him up with Chris Pratt, like yesterday. I want over saturation of Kocher immediately. Jay Pharoah and D.C. Pierson‘s narration as the sideline peanut gallery makes the game sequences what they are. Now, let’s get real for a moment. Hands down, once again,the star of this film is Beck Bennett. I have been a fan ever since his national AT&T campaign. Believing he is vastly under utilized on SNL, I have been privileged to see his outstanding movie roles thus far. His last film, Beside Still Waters (a MUST see), was on the opposite end spectrum on his testosterone driven revenge obsession in Balls Out. Like McKinnon, each frame he appears in he completely owns. I don’t know how anyone kept a straight face having to be in a scene with him. It makes me wonder how much of his dialogue is improvised. I would imagine the DVD blooper reel with feature him heavily. Cheers to Beck for bring this film over the goal line.

BALLS OUT arrives theatrically and on VOD June 19th.

Genre: Comedy
TRT: 100 min
Camera: RED Epic
Language: English

Rated: R for crude and sexual material, language and some drug use

SYNOPSIS: With graduation, marriage, and an uncertain future on the horizon, fifth year college senior Caleb Fuller (Jake Lacy) decides to do the one thing he vowed to never do again: get the ol’ flag football team back together. Now with the help of his Panther teammates and unorthodox head coach Grant Rosenfalis (Nick Kocher), Caleb must defy all odds and logic if he ever hopes to achieve the intramural football glory he once had. Set in the highly popular world of college intramural sports, BALLS OUT is the epic sports movie for the guys who don’t deserve one.

Liz’s Review: ‘Gabriel’ haunts us with an undeniable truth

Posted on June 16, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — 1 Comment ↓

Many of us deal with anxiety on a daily basis. Some of us have sleep disorders. Others battle with being OCD. Mental illness tends to be a taboo subject. It’s something we usually hear about when it comes to the increasing number of mass shootings in this country. Why do we avoid the issue until something goes wrong?In Lou Howe’s writing and directorial debut, he brings us the story of GABRIEL. Played flawlessly by Rory Culkin, Gabriel is a young man struggling with a form of mental illness. On his way back home from some sort of facility, he stops to check up on an old girlfriend in her dorm room, only to find that she has gone home for the holiday. All this happens while avoiding calls from his worried family members. The rise in his agitation both emotionally and physically is a real punch in the gut for audience members. I think we all had a sigh of relief when she wasn’t available. Finally meeting up with his family, Gabriel is not deterred in his path to find her. He disappears on a bus and makes his way into NYC to track her down. During his journey we are witness to the quiet moments in this young man’s life. These seem to be the most disturbing and painful for both Gabriel and viewer alike.Howe has created a fully fleshed family dynamic without spelling out everything in the script. He treats each character with honest care. It is quite an impressive feat for this first time writer/director. There is actually pretty little dialogue, but what there is, is very astute. Rory’s performance is like watching a masterclass in character study. His focus and mannerisms are perfection. Not to mention that in person, his humility gives you pause. He is quiet in person but eloquent and clearly very bright.I was fortunate enough to attend a round table with Writer/Director Lou Howe and Rory. Here are some of their thoughts on the film.

_________________________________________________________________________

Lou Howe & Rory Culkin- Tribeca 2014 Roundtables. Photo by Liz Whittemore

Normally in Hollywood when we deal with mental illness everything turns out alright in the end. For example, Silver Linings Playbook. This is the extreme opposite. So what was your motivation in telling this story?

Lou: I think I just wanted to be as truthful as possible. I likeSilver Linings Playbook. I like positive movies but I don’t find them to be as honest about life as I hope to make my movies. I wanted to stay true to Gabe and his experience and try to make it as authentic as possible.

And if the character based on anyone specific?

Lou: No, not really. The original idea to create a character came from the experience of seeing a close friend get diagnosed with mental illness. The character is purely fictional.

Rory, you are constantly on all the time, everything take. Were you and everybody onset thinking, “I just need a break for 5 seconds?”

Lou: I think were so in it we are just running the race, like Rory said, it took a minute after we wrapped to realize how intense the whole process had been. But at least for me, when you’re in it, you try to focus on the next step.

Can I ask about the body language in the film?

Rory: When we went and spoke with people and did those sort of things, there was one young man that really stuck out to me. He said he couldn’t entirely trust his own hands so they always had to stay within his line of sight and so the point of the hands in my face was to make sure they’re behaving.

Was there any specific research you did maybe speaking to doctors or speaking to patients affected with mental illness?

Lou: My own friend was sort of the start of it. There were two organizations here in New York that were very helpful with research; the Child Mind Institute read early draft of the script and helped me make sure that this felt accurate and true. And another place called fountain house which is a community center for people struggling with mental illness. I visited several times and took Rory there as well just to meet people struggling with mental illness and hear their stories directly.

Rory: For me it was almost entirely hearing about hearing firsthand accounts and their perspective. Learning from the outside, the medical aspects and all that, is great as a foundation, but as soon as we start shooting I just sort of throw that all that all the window because as Gabriel, your diagnosis is bullshit. he doesn’t buy into any of that so I sort of had to not think from the outside.

Lou: I was sort of trying to maintain that, too. Rory would be out there with the rest of the cast thinking about it from their point of view. First person memoirs for Rory or talking to people with illnesses and for the actors playing the family members in the film, having them talk to people in their position.

Rory, was the character hard to shake off at the end of the day?

Rory: Yeah, I thought I left him behind once we got done. But when I got home I was like kind of fragile and really sensitive and I didn’t realize it. But it took a while to shake it off. When I came home, my friends said that my face had aged years. It’s weird, you know, at the screening last night, it brought me right back and I was afraid I was going to, as soon as it ended, get emotional. It’s almost embarrassing, getting emotional watching myself. It’s almost like I’m praising myself but really I’m back there. It’s not easy.

_________________________________________________________________________

GABRIEL will leave you thinking about this intense story. You will want to know what happens long after the screen blacks out. It is certainly a wonderful conversation starter, and that one that we need to address more often. Bring family members to see this film. It will give you a safe place to start talking to one another, no matter what ails you, inside or out.

Gabriel is in theaters June 19th.

Writer/Director: Lou Howe Starring: Rory Culkin, David Call, Deirdre O’Connell, Emily Meade, Louisa Krause, Lynn Cohen, Alexia Rasmussen Runtime: 88 min

Liz’s Review: ‘SET FIRE TO THE STARS’ ignites the screen

Posted on June 12, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — 2 Comments ↓

It’s rare these days to see something so clever, elegant, and passionate all at once. SET FIRE TO THE STARS is the story of New York academic John Malcolm Brinnin and famous poet Dylan Thomas’ brief but impactful relationship. Brinnin takes it upon himself to bring Thomas to America for a series of 25 poetry readings across the country. Ignoring the rumors that Dylan is erratic in personality and behavior, Brinnin risks his career to bring his idol to the US. Brinnin makes the fated decision to extract him from the city for a few days in order to detox mind and body, and Thomas brings a whirlwind of spirit, tenacity, and his haunted past right to John’s doorstep. When idolatry blinds common sense, is disappointment inevitable?

Celyn Jones in SET FIRE TO THE STARS

Celyn Jones, who co-wrote the screenplay with director Andy Goddard, gives an impeccable performance as Thomas. Never missing a beat, every breath and moment of silence is accounted for with an endless saturation of greatness. Celyn has had a consistently successful television career over the years and is rumored to have been cast in the upcoming production of Mary Shelley’s Monster alongside our very own Sansa Stark, Sophie Turner. I truly hope this turns out to be true. I want to see so much more of Celyn on screen, any size will do for my liking. He and Elijah Wood have completely believable chemistry together. Two men from different worlds, who I believe envy one another for very different reasons. Known for his long eclectic career for films like The Lord of the Rings to more recent indie gem Grand Piano, Wood has picked another winning script and delivers. His performance is pensive and thought-provoking. Brinnin goes through quite the journey during the course of this particular snapshot in time. Set Fire To The Stars is based upon Brinnin’s novel titled Dylan Thomas in America. To be more specific, only 7 pages of his novel make up the entire basis of the script, and what a glorious 7 pages chosen by Jones and Goddard.

Elijah Wood in SET FIRE TO THE STARS

The film is shot in black & white giving it a timeless quality. With a luscious beatnik jazz inspired soundtrack, Andy Goddard‘s directorial debut sings off the screen. Glorious lighting and splendid camera work take the slight exhale of a cigarette and create an ethereal piece of art. Long, heavy dialogue takes are beyond engrossing, they are poetry in their own right. Proof that Jones and Goddard teaming up was pure genius. Combined with the deliciously affected speech of the literary elite and era, Jones and Woods give us performances that might otherwise sound droll had it not been for the clear understanding and passion behind the text. This film is like like perfect ice cream sundae, with everything on top. If you are already a poetry fan, well, you might as well consider yourself down for the count. You will absolutely fall for this movie. I, for one, will be adding this to my DVD collection as soon as it becomes available, which thankfully, is very soon.

Elijah Wood in SET FIRE TO THE STARS

I was lucky enough to be a part of an intimate roundtable interview with Celyn and Elijah just yesterday. How method is Celyn when it comes to role preparation? Will Elijah be starring in a mistaken identity flick with Daniel Radcliffe? Find out all the juicy details in this extraordinarily fun interview in our newest episode of the Girls On Film podcast. Enjoy!

Celyi Jones and Elijah Wood. Roundtable interview for Set Fire To The Stars. Photo by Liz Whittemore

Celyn Jones and Elijah Wood. Roundtable interview for Set Fire To The Stars. Photo by Liz Whittemore

OPENS FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2015 in New York at The Village East, with a Los Angeles and major city roll out, June 19th!

SET FIRE TO THE STARS will be released nationwide on July 21 on DVD, VOD, Digital platforms and Itunes.

Country of Origin: United Kingdom

Format: DCP/2.35/B&W

Sound Format: Dolby Digital

Running Time: 93 minutes

Genre: Drama

Rating: Not Rated

In English

Based on true events, Elijah Wood stars as John Malcolm Brinnin, the New York academic who brought Dylan Thomas to America. Actor/co-writer Celyn Jones plays the volatile celebrity poet – tormented by anonymity, alcohol and the abyss – who scandalized the Manhattan literati of the Fifties and challenged Brinnin’s hero worship of his work. In the face of the Welsh poet’s wilder excesses in the Big Apple – angel, beast and madman – John has no choice but to hijack Dylan to a private retreat to get him ready for America. The days and nights that follow will change his life forever. Part literary biopic and – shot in cut-glass black-and-white – part love-letter to the American B-movies of the Forties and Fifties, Andy Goddard’s debut feature is both a character driven chamber piece and a cautionary tale about the flytrap of meeting your heroes.

Liz’s Review: Vengeance and Religion drive the fight in ‘REDEEMER’

Posted on June 12, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

Guilt is a loud devil on your shoulder. The past can drive you mad or drive you to change… sometimes a little bit of both. In Ernesto Diaz Espinoza‘s new film REDEEMER, a man known only by this title is a mysterious figure, righting wrongs among his small Chilean community. Tortured by an unthinkable past that is slowly revealed as the film progresses, The Redeemer must conquer his own ghosts in order to battle the biggest evil he has ever known. Can he protect those left behind? Marko Zaror, martial arts action star extraordinaire, takes on the lead with ease and ownership. Not only is his acting pretty damn stellar, he is also the fight coordinator for the film’s vast array of sequences that are enhanced by key moments of slow motion. These sequences are extremely long and well shot. It was mostly refreshing to see an organic quality about the battles. They are interesting and definitely full of surprises. My favorite aspect would definitely be the use of graphic blood splatter. Reading like a first person shooter game, the blood use is colorful, impactful, and sometimes just over-the-top enough to make you cringe at the perfect moments. The dialogue is creative and comic relief comes in the form of our only English speaking character, drug lord Bradock, Noah Segan, who I recognized from Deadgirl, is so natural in his comedy it should be against the law. He was actually my favorite part of the film. Segan has 8 projects this year alone, including Tales of Halloween with Lin Shaye (Insidious) and Booboo Stewart (The Twilight Saga), as well as The Mind’s Eye with Larry Fessenden (We Are Still Here). This guy is around for the long hall. Bottom line, if you liked Netflix’s Daredevil season 1, Redeemer will resonate with you. While it could be about 10-15 minutes tighter, due to the extended fight scenes, this film is definitely worth a shot.

Acclaimed Chilean director Ernesto Diaz Espinoza (Mandrill, The ABCs of Death, Kiltro) teams up again with martial arts action star Marko Zaror (Undisputed III, Machete Kills) in the theatrical and VOD release of REDEEMER. The epic action film, which made its debut at the 2014 Fantastic Film Festival, hits theaters and VOD on June 12 from Dark Sky Films.

Review: A ghost story that won’t let the past die in ‘We Are Still Here’

Posted on June 5, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — 2 Comments ↓

In the new haunted house horror We Are Still Here, Anne and Paul Sacchetti move to a small New England town to make a fresh start following the death of son Bobby. Anne believes that Bobby’s spirit is in the house reassuring her that everything is hunky dory. After she and Paul enlist their new age friends Jacob and May to visit and ease their minds, they realize something much older is lurking and poised to rear it’s ugly head. The past does not want to stay in the past.Right off the bat, the camera work displays an “I’m not alone” feeling with handheld, over the shoulder and around the corner shots that set the tone for the entirety of the film. Establishing shots of each room and the snow covered acres surrounding the property itself, give you a definitely isolated sense. 10 minutes in, our first real set up moment, an object from the past and a blink-and-you-miss-it jump scare of classic proportion. Not bad, not bad at all. Writer/Director Ted Geoghegan, clearly with a crush on the classics good and bad, knows his stuff. The story moves along at lightening pace, laying out a small town’s history mired with sadness, rumors, and evil. We Are Still Here pays homage to films like Amityville and Poltergeist. Films with an unshakable past that seem to be well known by the locals and end up terrorizing the newbies. The practical effects are gold and vomit inducing for sure, but the use of the seamless CG takes the film to another level. Flawlessly held together with a stellar cast of genre greats, We Are Still Here is an instant classic. Barbara Crampton‘s Anne is grounded, loving, and searching for comfort. Andrew Sensenig‘s portrayal of Paul is as masculine and protective as you can get, without losing that caring husband edge. Larry Fessenden as Jacob is funny and vivacious. Lisa Marie plays May with an airy realness of someone who is actually a sensitive. The four leads work so well with one another, I cannot imagine a different cast. Fun Fact: Both Barbara and Larry recently appeared in the 2011 horror/thriller You’re Next (Another film I would recommend). The music is quiet and looming like that of a small wind chime, and truly adds the the eerie factor. The color scheme of the surrounding dank New England winter (one I grew up with myself) makes the eventual appearance of bright red blood all the more visually impactful. The set dressing is top notch. The house appears untouched since the film’s set 1979 date. Old houses creek, we all know this to be true, but the timing of the sound editing ramps up the natural inclination that maybe you shouldn’t hang out long in a dusty old basement. A few obvious takeaways from this movie: 1. Don’t trust your creepy neighbors, 2. Shit starts flying off the walls you should just assume the worst, and 3. Don’t ever, ever mess with the dead. There are 1000 more things I could praise about this film, thing is, I really just want you to go see it for yourselves! We Are Still Here arrives in theaters and on VOD today, June 5th. Go get your spooky on.

Liz’s Review: ‘DOOMSDAYS’ are indeed coming, so you might as well laugh it up until then

Posted on June 4, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

If Wes Anderson made a movie with 1/50th of his usual budget and a cast of indie gems, you’d have the new pre-apocalyptic comedy DOOMSDAYS. Since post-apocalyptic films are all the rage these days, the concept of a precursor is already funny in it’s own right. The story revolves around two eccentric slackers extraordinaire who have a penchant for breaking into vacation homes in the Catskills. Why, you might ask? Well, the world’s need for oil as a natural resource is rapidly running into a bit of a snafu since mother nature is none too pleased with the choice, besides the fact that when it does eventually and inevitably run out, life as we know it essentially fucked. So, before this becomes a major reality, Dirty Fred and Bruho have decided that the vagabond lifestyle is the bees knees. Using existing resources left behind by these dwellings owners, these two gentleman roam the countryside of upstate New York living a life relatively free of consequences from ‘the man’. Once they run into a teen runaway and wanderlust filled young woman, the small group dynamic shifts dramatically. Filled with sharp and witty dialogue that’s just weird enough to be both funny and face-palmy (new word), Doomsdays is like nothing you expect it to be. Scenes filled with nothing become everything. There is no technology in this film. No cell phones, no television, and no working laptops, allow conversation and contemplation to become the main focus of this unusual film. With a strangely adorable slice of buddy comedy mixed in, it’s a film any indie buff would be proud to have in his/her back pocket of greatness. Writer/Director Eddie Mullins clearly knows his shit. Besides the obvious writing talent, his use of a singular stationary camera is a perfect fit for this piece. The structure is laid out in a month long calendar style, which only adds to the great pacing. The original score by Bang And Yell is catchy and really well placed. Justin Rice as Dirty Fred is a pretentious nutter but completely lovable. Leo Fitzpatrick plays Bruho with a genuine curmudgeonly edge. Brian Charles Johnson, who this theater nerd recognized from Broadway’s Spring Awakening, is young Jaidon. Comic timing of a master and excitable enthusiasm of a star, I loved him. Laura Campbell is Reyna. Not so different from the rest of the crew, this seemingly normal woman is just as damaged and adventurous as the boys. These four have an incredible chemistry which makes me ponder the amount of rehearsal time everyone had together, which is clearly a total compliment.Doomsdays is ultimately a story about adjusting to other people’s odd idiosyncrasies. This film nails all the things we wish we could get away with doing and saying. I highly recommend catching this unique indie this weekend. DOOMSDAYS comes to theaters and VOD Fridsay, June 5th.

Liz’s Review: Start your summer ‘Walking on Sunshine’

Posted on May 29, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

If you’re looking for a fun-filled, musical way to jumpstart your summer but don’t want to venture out into the heat, then look no further than Walking on Sunshine. This over the top summer holiday themed film is filled to the brim with incredible choreography and some cheeky characters.

Do you remember your first holiday romance? Taylor does, the only problem is her sister is now marrying him… Maddie is ecstatic she is finally getting married to her gorgeous fiancé Raf. Her sister Taylor struggles to hold in her feelings for Raf, who is an ex-holiday flame and the love of her life. Set on the beautiful coast of Italy, a love triangle between sisters unfolds through the hit songs of the 80’s.

The film is fairly being compared to Mamma Mia. Wedding, music, shenanigans and the like. I do think that Walking On Sunshine stands on it’s own in many ways. The choreography for one, is absolutely top notch. As a musical theatre major, I know me some solid choreo, so color me impressed with each number. Turning pop songs into a cohesive story line can also be quite the challenge especially if they are all songs we love and know by heart. The way the lyrics have been utilized into the script is a home run. Where Mama Mia was successful, Walking On Sunshine also prevails.

The acting is natural and just carefree enough to suit the musical genre. Leona Lewis‘s voice is certainly the immediate stand out even if her role is on the smaller side. You will definitely find yourself singing along and routing for these characters. Walking On Sunshine is the perfect film to check out on VOD with friends and family. I suggest throwing a party, breaking out the summer fair and renting this film some time soon!

Starring: Grammy Nominee Leona Lewis (“The X Factor”), Annabel Scholey (BBC’s “Being Human), Hannah Arterton (BBC’s “Atlantis”), Katy Brand (Nanny McPhee, Svengali, Good Arrows), Giulio Berruti

Directed by: Max Giwa & Dania Pasquini (Street Dance series)

First Window: May 29th: iTunes, Xbox, GooglePlay, Amazon InstantDirecTV, Comcast, Cox, Dish, Verizon
Second Window: June 30th: All providers listed above plus: Time Warner, Brighthouse, AT&T

Soundtrack Available Now on iTunes!

Holiday
Venus
How Will I Know?
The Power of Love
Don’t You Want Me?
Walking on Sunshine
Eternal Flame
Girls Just Want to Have Fun
Wild Boys
It Must Have Been Love
Faith
White Wedding
If I Could Turn Back Time
Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go

https://youtu.be/u20k-od-z4U

Liz’s Review: ‘FORBIDDEN EMPIRE’ is a fun filled fantasy

Posted on May 21, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

An 18th century English cartographer, Jonathan Green, sets out on a journey to map the uncharted lands of Transylvania, only to discover the dark secrets and dangerous creatures hidden in a cursed, fantastical Ukrainian forest. Forbidden Empire is pure fantasy and just plain fun. Totally unexpected twists and turns are a welcome thing in the fantasy genre these days. Forbidden Empire has the visual beauty of Pan’s Labyrinth and The Brothers Grimm, combined with a humor reminiscent of Willow. The character of Jonathan Green accidentally becomes the hero of a town run by fanatical religion and teaming with superstition. Mixed with witchcraft and folklore, this script is thoroughly entertaining and completely compelling. The story takes upon new life with each character’s rendition of the town’s recent history. Some unexpected moments of horror heighten the coolness factor of this film. I can honestly say I had no idea what was coming next. Much love must be given to the costume ans set departments. Not a hair out of place, down to the smallest object on a shelf or in Jonathan Green’s steam-punk inspired carriage. The opening credit are a sight to behold unto themselves, with a CG borderline automaton style to be envied. The makeup effects are astounding. The creative team involved in the making of this movie deserves all the applause. Forbidden Empire is truly unexpected.With great acting by the entire ensemble cast and a lively score, Forbidden Empire is a winner. You cannot go wrong with this film. Forbidden Empire will be available on VOD Friday, May 22.

Official Sites:

Facebook [Philippines] | Official site [Russia]

Country: Russia | Ukraine | Czech Republic

Language: Russian | English

Release Date: 22 May 2015 (USA)

Filming Locations: Russia

Liz’s Review: ‘EVERY SECRET THING’ is a twisted tale of emotional manipulation.

Posted on May 14, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

Laura Lippman‘s best-selling novel Every Secret Thing has been brought to life by Academy Award(r) Nominated Filmmaker Amy Berg. Two 11 year old girls are convicted of kidnapping and killing a biracial infant. Released after seven years in a jeuvenile detention center, Ronnie and Alice are back in their hometown attempting to adjust to normal life as newly minted adults. Two weeks after their release, another young biracial girl goes missing from a local furniture store. Can the lead detective from the first case survive this new one? Who can you trust? Every Secret Thing puts your suspicions to the test at every turn.

Utilizing flashbacks and he said/she said interrogation tactics, Berg skillfully crafts a film filled with mystery. Having not read the book, I was pleasantly surprised that the film clearly stands on it’s own. Never once did I feel cheated or left in the dark for the wrong reasons. In fact I was scratching my head, trying to figure it out right along with the detectives. I was fully engrossed with the story and structure. Bravo, I say.

Dakota Fanning plays Ronnie with a beautiful mixture of shyness and a hardened edge. Ronnie is from “The wrong side of the tracks”. Quiet and smart, her heavily rimmed eyes speak volumes as a severely damaged young woman. Danielle Macdonald gives one hell of a performance as Alice. Her eerie lack of emotional growth is startling. She walks a fine line between naivete and incredulity. Someone go cast her in something else, please?

Diane Lane plays Alice’s mother, Helen. This is a woman with issues in broad daylight. Her relationship with Ronnie and Alice is beyond peculiar and most definitely off putting. Alcoholic and self loathing, she has been silently molding the girls whether she realizes it or not. This performance should garner her attention for the sheer sliminess and moral justification that comes off the screen. Elizabeth Banks play Detective Nancy Porter. Haunted by the death of the first child 7 years earlier, she is determined to figure out the truth this time around. Banks is vulnerable but tough in all the right areas.

It was so refreshing to see a cast that was female dominated and extraordinarily talented. This film blows the Bechdel test out of the water. Applause to Berg, screenwriter Nicole Holofcener, and executive producer Frances McDormand for bringing Every Secret Thing to the big screen. I will say, even after seeing the film twice, (once at last year’s Tribeca Film Festival and again this week) I am still intrigued to go out and grab Lippman’s novel. At the heart of it all, this is a story about emotional abuse and it’s long term consequences. Every Little Secret will keep you guessing until the very last frame.

Synopsis: From a producer of FOXCATCHER and based on the novel by New York Times best-selling author Laura Lippman, EVERY SECRET THING is a gripping psychological thriller about the chilling consequences of the secrets we keep.

Detective Nancy Porter (Elizabeth Banks) is still haunted by her failure to save the life of a missing child from the hands of two young girls. Eight years later, another child goes missing in the same town just days after Ronnie and Alice (Dakota Fanning and newcomer Danielle Macdonald), the two girls convicted of the former crime, were released from juvenile detention. Porter and her partner (Nate Parker) must race against the clock to prevent history from repeating itself. But as they begin to investigate the girls and their families, especially Alice’s protective mother (Diane Lane), they unearth a web of secrets and deceptions that calls everything into question.

Directed by Academy Award(r) Nominated Filmmaker Amy Berg and Executive Produced by Frances McDormand.

Rated R

RT: 93 Minutes

Release: In theaters, On Demand and iTunes May 15, 2015

Additional VOD platforms: iTunes, Amazon Instant Video, Google Play, Comcast, Time Warner Cable, AT&T, DirecTV, Dish, and more…

Girls On Film Podcast: Interview with the ‘I AM BIG BIRD’ filmmakers Chad Walker and Dave LaMattina.

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

Hands down one of the most touching documentaries to come out of theTribeca Film festival last year is I AM BIG BIRD. This is the heartwarming story of the man inside the big yellow icon, Caroll Spinney. I’ve already gushed about the film in my review, so I was thrilled to get the opportunity to talk with directors Chad Walker and Dave LaMattina this afternoon. Here is our brand new episode of Girls On Film: I Am Big Bird

I AM BIG BIRD is now playing in theaters in selected cities with a national expansion coming in throughout the summer. Stay tuned to Reel News Daily for more information!

An interview with ‘Boy Meets Girl’ star Michelle Hendley. Liz and Michelle talk about breaking into the biz and sexual identity.

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

Transgender actors and actresses are hard to find. When director Eric Schaeffer wrote the script for coming of age rom-com Boy Meets Girl, he literally had to Google who might be available. Finding a young and dynamic YouTube vlogger Michelle Hendley was god send. The story revolves around an early 20 something transgender girl, Ricky, who is stuck in her hometown (Followed the best casual sex calvin website). Thankfully she is surrounded by a supportive family and an adoring best friend, Robby. Into daydreaming, creating original outfits she features on her Youtube channel, and trying to navigate friendships, Ricky finds herself attracted to the new girl around town, Francesca. Not knowing how “things” work sexually with a girl, Robby becomes her tutor in the ways of wooing a female properly. We make your experience a fun and unforgettable one with plan your hens night. In a small Southern town, there are of course those who don’t fully accept Ricky as well as the masked sexual tensions from those in denial.Fleshlight imitate the feel of vaginal, anal and oral sex with lifelike openings, internal canals and soft material. If you have never considered a Fleshlight , it will change the way you view masturbation.The beauty of booking with Absolute Angels Bangkok is that quality is always assured. Our first-class companionship agency represents the most outstanding Thai escort can provide in terms of beauty, professionalism, personality and elegance.avai Michelle is a real gem. She is naturally funny and sweet. Not to mention drop dead gorgeous, she carries this film with the help of Twilight alum Michael Welch. His performance is also extraordinarily organic and likable. The two steer this movie into the ABC Family category, meaning that it’s meant for tweens (at the youngest) and up audience. The dialogue is honest and reminiscent of conversations we’ve all had while trying to figure out where we belong. You can book for your next night out the best hotel where topless waiter are available. The Male Revue can supply a shirtless barman to your location. Whether it’s a girl’s night out or a special occasion, male strippers can add fun and excitement to any event. Why do the same boring things when you’re out with your friends? Try something new. Enjoy a show featuring male strippers ct and spice up your night! Going out to conventional clubs for dancing or bars for good cheers is the sure-fire recipe for quickly becoming bored and frustrated. There is little entertainment to be had in such places. Having to push through crowds just to find a place to stand, or dodging drunks who are always in danger of spilling drinks on you, is no way to spend an evening. 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The music, the lights, the scents, the well-oiled muscles, and the stupendous dance routines-all of these provide an energy that you won’t find in a normal club or bar. Away from the humdrum of your life and into the great sphere of male entertainment, you can really let loose and allow yourself to feel sexy and excited. This is the value offered by male strippers and the clubs in which they perform.The stage is set! Lights shining. Smoke machine steaming, hearts are racing and blood is pumping. As the curtains unveil and the electrifying music fills the air, our Magic Men appear and take the stage in what only promises to be an unforgettable evening ahead. Come watch the ultimate male revue shows at the hottest venues and nightclubs around Melbourne. Whether it’s a Friday, Saturday or you just wanting to have your very own magic night, come see our MagicMen hens night venue hire perform their spectacular dance routines at a male revue show Melbourne. Our guys bring a high energy performance with electrifying dance moves that will have you sitting on the edge of your seats. Want to visit one of our shows? Enquiry with us today to book your tickets and reserve your seating. No walk-ins permitted! Voted one of Australia’s hottest male strip clubs, Magic Men is one male strip show you don’t want to miss. Reserve your tickets and book today.In the end, this film is not about being transgender, it’s about loving yourself. Boy Meets Girl has a great message to people of all ages and should be on your agenda. So many folks we know have lived in fear of judgement for years. I had an amazing teacher who was married, had children, all hiding the fact that he was gay. This is not a unique scenario. Too many teens are taking their own lives because of bullying. Boy Meets Girl is a beautiful introduction into a world some are still having a rough time accepting. Parents, watch it first, then watch it with your kids. Now is the time.

I had the privilege of interviewing Michelle about her very first role in a feature film:

Firstly, let me congratulate you on a gorgeous, heartfelt, and really organic performance. Brava. You have a huge fan in me, already. Second, thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me. I’ll jump right in… How did you hear about the casting for this film?

Michelle: Wow! Thank you so much! And absolutely! I’m thrilled that you want to interview with me! Eric found me via my Youtube vlog, and from there I auditioned with him over Skype. He worked with me on the script for a few months before making the final decision to cast me as Ricky.

Did you and Michael spend much time together prior to shooting? Your relationship is incredibly natural.

Michelle: We did not spend a lot of time together before shooting, but there was a Skype call or two and I do remember getting Indian food together and having an in-depth discussion about spirituality and the after life….the curry was pretty great too. Michael is genuinely a great guy, and incredibly easy to work with (I know Alex and Michael Galante would also agree).

Now that you have this experience under your belt, do you think you’ll pursue more acting projects?

Michelle: Oh yes! Definitely. I’m working with an agency in New York right now, and just got done shooting and NBC pilot. It looks like I have an acting career coming my way!

What did you learn while working with Eric?

Michelle: Oh my gosh. Eric taught me *so* much! He basically put me through actor’s bootcamp (and even sent me off to an acting coach for a little while), and showed me the ins and outs of being on camera. Perhaps the most important thing I learned from him was to know your lines in-and-out so you can allow yourself to play with line readings and give the director a variety of takes. Seems like basic knowledge, but what did I know? I was just a Missouri girl in the middle of beauty school when he found me.

How similar are you and Ricky?

Michelle: There are a number of parallels between Ricky and myself. I certainly relate with her when it comes to the struggles of gender transition, and the horribleness that dating can be. We also come from a supportive family and have loving friends. However, Ricky has a darker past than I do, and therefore carries herself with more of an edge. Ricky is stronger than me, and it was important that I made that distinction when portraying her. Oh, and I can’t sew for anything.

So many people are uptight about sexuality. Which is amusing, since the ones that get uppity about it usually have something to hide, or feel ashamed about totally normal feelings or experimentation, and people are attracted to different things, many men are attracted to women’s physic while some women like men’s intellect, although a woman like this would be called a sapiosexual woman which anyone could learn online about it. Do you label yourself in your personal life when it comes to sexuality?

Michelle: You are absolutely 110% right. It is amusing (in the most frustrating, hair-pulling kinda way) the way people get up-in-arms about sexuality (and gender) – there own identity and other peoples’! I’m not a huge fan of labels, but I am very much attracted to men. That isn’t to say there couldn’t be a lady out there who had it goin’ on for me, but for the most part…I like dudes. I identify as a heterosexual female… Most people have not seen a transgender body, and I honestly feel that is why there is so much stigma against trans individuals. I think the world needs to face their fear and see that my body is beautiful, powerful, and that it isn’t threatening anyone (or their sense masculinity).

With this video popularity, do you feel pressure while performing, and adults alike, that might be struggling with being themselves?

Michelle: A lot of people are beginning to see me as a representative for the trans community, and I am more than happy to see Jacob Hansen , Ashton Summers performing as gay twinks in helix studios videos. Yes, it is intimidating and I do feel a bit of pressure, but if their community feels they are doing them justice, then It couldn’t be happier. they receive a ton of messages from individuals all over the LBGTQ spectrum.

Michelle, Thank You, Thank You, Thank You and Congrats again on an extraordinary debut performance. We’re really impressed and look forward to talking with you again soon!

Michelle: Thank *you* so much! I LOVED your questions, and I hope I have the opportunity to interview with you again!

Available today on iTunes, Google Play, Amazon Instant, Vudu, and cable On Demand. DVD is available WOLFEONDEMAND.COM

and many other retailers across the country.

One of the most popular and award-winning LGBT films of the year, BOY MEETS GIRL is an authentic Southern romantic-comedy starring the newcomer Michelle Hendley as Ricky, a young transwoman trying to navigate life and looking for romance in her small Kentucky hometown. Will she find love with the beautiful rich girl Francesca (Alexandra Turshen, RED OAKS) or with her lifelong best pal Robby (Michael Welch, TWILIGHT franchise)? Authentically written and directed by accomplished indie filmmaker Eric Schaeffer (IF LUCY FELL starring Sarah Jessica Parker, Ben Stiller, Elle Macpherson, NEVER AGAIN starring Jeffrey Tambor and Jill Clayburgh), BOY MEETS GIRL simultaneously exemplifies and transcends the category of “LGBT film” to present the very human story of the blurry and complicated lines between friendship and romance, gender and sexuality.

Said writer-director Eric Schaeffer, “In making this film, I wanted everyone–regardless of gender (cis or trans) or sexual orientation to have a chance to identify with the film’s themes of wanting to be unconditionally loved and accepted for who we are. The message in this film is the same as in all my work: labeling leaves no room for who we really are, or how we really experience life. I think our only chance is to bury those labels forever in favor of a singular new one: human. Hate is easy. The real courage is in love.”

BOY MEETS GIRL completed its theatrical run in February 2015 and garnered numerous awards on the film festival circuit, including Best Feature at the Teaneck International Film Festival, the prestigious Iris Prize Festival and the Memphis Gay & Lesbian Film Festival. The film also picked up multiple awards at FilmOut San Diego, sweeping up nearly every jury award for which it was eligible at the 2014 festival – nabbing statues for Best Feature, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor. Hendley also won the Programming Award for Outstanding Emerging Talent.

‘The 100 Year Old Man Who Climbed Out The Window and Disappeared’ is finally available in the U.S.!

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

This incredibly funny and endearing film is one of the most upbeat things I’ve seen this year. Long story short, not unlike the title suggests, Allan is turning 100 and is stuck in a nursing home. Reminiscing through pictures and stories from his past, Allan decides to jump out of the window and go on an adventure, anywhere. He ends up with a suitcase full of money belonging to some pretty scary people and on his way to freedom he runs into other wayward souls that get entangled in his absurd journey.

Allan (Robert Gustafsson) and Julius (Iwar Wiklander) in THE 100 YEAR OLD MAN. Courtesy of Music Box Films.

Lead actor Robert Gustafsson is an absolute delight. Comic timing and facial expressions of a real genius, he takes this film through time and through encounters with historical figures like Ronald Reagan and Joseph Stalin, just to name a few. With a passion for blowing things up and an innate ability to talk to anyone, Allan becomes a double agent, a soldier, and perhaps the actual creator of the atomic bomb.

THE 100 YEAR OLD MAN. Courtesy of Music Box Films.

The film is a mixture of scenes from Allan’s youth and the shenanigans he’s gotten himself into on his birthday. Adapted beautifully from the novel of the same name by author Jonas Jonasson, with the help of screenwriters Felix Herngren & Hans Ingemansson, it is definitely full of belly laughs and good times. Herndren, also the director, gives us a colorful, lush, and impeccable comedic foreign film, unlike the many melodramatic features we’re used to getting from over seas. The theater I was in was in stitches the entire duration, and when you can get a theater full of critics laughing, well that’s a feat unto itself. I highly recommend you catch this movie. It is available in theaters in on demand!

Allan (Robert Gustafsson) in THE 100 YEAR OLD MAN. Courtesy of Music Box Films.

Powered by the antics of a mischievous centenarian on the run, comic fable The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed out the Window and Disappeared abounds with irreverent charm. After a long and colorful life working in munitions and getting entangled in the Spanish Civil War, the Manhattan Project, and other definitive events of the 20th century, Allan Karlsson finds himself stuck in a nursing home. Determined to escape on his 100th birthday, he leaps out of a window and onto the nearest bus, kicking off an unexpected journey involving, among other surprises, a suitcase stuffed with cash, some wicked criminals, and an elephant named Sonya. Like an unruly Nordic cousin of Forrest Gump, Allan’s youthful escapades and current adventures weave together into an offbeat treat for anyone who’s young at heart. Starring beloved comedian Robert Gustafsson, this fanciful spin on world history is based on a best-selling novel and also the highest-grossing Swedish film of all time.

Arnold Schwarzenegger, Abigail Breslin, and Joely Richardson star in ‘MAGGIE’ – a post-apocalyptic Zombie flick with Midwestern flare and some incredible acting.

Posted on May 8, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

There is no denying that most of us are fans of anything zombie genre. With The Walking Dead becoming a televised phenomenon, we got to see a story line based around the characters and not the infected. This is very much the scenario in Henry Hobson‘s new film Maggie. Wade has promised his late wife that he would do anything to protect their daughter. Living in a world where an infection causes people to turn into cannibal zombies, the government have ordered that at 8 weeks into said infection, you must deliver your family member to the hospital quarantine wing… where they essentially wait to die. But how can you just give up? What if your loved one is different? What if you believe they can be saved?Arnold Schwarzenegger plays Wade with a love and affection that is altogether new for him. This legendary action star is gentle and protective, and any of us would be proud to call him Dad. He is able to hold the screen in long quiet shots with complete ease and not much more than his pensive face. I would love to him in more roles like this, as he is clearly capable of giving us an entire range of real emotion without any slow motion explosions going off behind him. Joely Richardson is Caroline, Wade’s second wife and Maggie’s stepmother. After sending her two small children off to live with relatives one Maggie returns to the home, she is hesitant to fully trust Wade’s parenting decisions, as would anyone afraid of being attacked by a zombie. Supportive but always on edge, Richardson displays the same great acting talents we’ve come to know from The Tudors and Nip/Tuck. The real star of this film, hands down, is Abigail Breslin. To navigate as a teenager in a world where awkwardness is already the norm, then add in the inevitability of turning into a monster is quite the feat. Breslin is graceful and raw in her spiral both emotionally and physically. She is able to balance sadness, thoughtfulness, and a little bit of frightening all at once. I am truly impressed with her portrayal of Maggie and it should not go unnoticed by Hollywood. Maggie is Henry Hobson‘s first feature length film. He is known for his genius art direction with title sequences, ironically including The Walking Dead. Hobson’s experience is evident in the way he chooses to shoot in an almost kamikaze style. Indie films have smaller budgets and tight schedule, but his actors and crew trusted him so much that at the drop of a hat, the entire team would run from one location to another in order to fit in a shot to capture a perfect moment in time and its natural light. I see a great future for Henry Hobson if Maggie is any indication of what he is capable of. Don’t expect massive actions scenes but do expect some phenomenal makeup effects and a truly lovely script by John Scott 3. For a first time screenwriter, he definitely knows his stuff about the genre and great family dynamics. Maggie is a slow burn, beautifully shot and scored, with one hell of an ending. It’s slightly outside the box for a zombie film and for Schwarzenegger, but totally worth your time. You can check out Maggie in theaters and On Demand today, May 8th.

Below you can find the audio from The Tribeca Film Festival press conference I attended for Maggie. Joely, Henry, and Arnold were in attendance. All three were completely gracious and articulate, it’s worth a listen for some insider information on the production. Enjoy!

http://maggiethefilm.com/

‘I AM BIG BIRD’ hugs your heart and soul. Liz talks childhood flashbacks and this touching documentary.

Posted on May 7, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

When I was a very small child, my mother would set me up each morning on my little wooden and plastic potty with a tray of cheerios and Sesame Street. Every night, I listened to the likes of Bert and Ernie, Telly and Grover, but I as I think back to a voice that was so distinct, I always think of one in particular. A tall, endearing, yellow fellow named Big Bird. When I was a preschool teacher I played my students the songs of my past and I fully intend to share the same memories with my own children. Chad Walker and Dave LaMattina bring us the joyous new documentary about the man inside the bird, Caroll Spinney. I AM BIG BIRD is a fascinating look into how this beloved character came to fruition.

Caroll Spinney in I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY a Tribeca Film release.

From humble beginnings, a volatile relationship with his father, and a supportive mother, Caroll fell in love with puppetry early on. As a young boy this did not necessarily make school an easy environment, but he soldiered on in his passion. Caroll was discovered at a 1969 Puppet Festival by none other than Jim Henson and fate. The two had a very special relationship, with Jim being a less of a boss and more of a friend and mentor to Caroll. Navigating through bouts of depression and low self worth, work was his saving grace as was his second wife Debra. Her love brought him back to life and has sustained the magic both on screen and behind the scenes ever since. The Big Bird we know now what not always this childlike. Initially, he was a very skinny yokel type. Thankfully, with more self confidence and encouragement from the entire Sesame Street family, Caroll gave us the magical creature we adore today.

Caroll Spinney and Debra Spinney in I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY a Tribeca Film release.

Walker and LaMattina had a gold mine of footage from Sesame Workshop but the jackpot came from Caroll and Deb’s years of home video footage. Mixed with Caroll’s own art work, intimate sit down interviews with his children, Sesame cast members, and even Jim’s daughter, we are privileged as an audience to see how moments of time came to be. From Follow The Bird to Big Bird in China and many other Muppet specials, we see the good and the bad. There are no kid gloves when it comes to talking about Caroll and company. One of innumerable interesting things we learn is that Caroll also plays Oscar the Grouch. You learn how this has become the perfect counter balance to our big yellow friend and Caroll alike. Their memories become your own and tear at your heartstrings. You feel so special as you see past the feather into Caroll’s soul.

Caroll Spinney and Jim Henson in I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY a Tribeca Film release.

We all have an innate love for Kermit and Big Bird. The Muppets and Sesame Street have molded millions of minds all over the globe since their inception. You will watch this film with tears in your eyes and laughter in your heart. There is no escaping the love that engulfs this movie. This is a timeless classic you will want to show your children down the line. I AM BIG BIRD is nothing short of extraordinary.

Caroll Spinney in I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY a Tribeca Film release.

Stay tuned for an interview with directors Chad Walker and Dave LaMattina in the next few days!

Release Date

VOD: Available on iTunes & VOD: May 5, 2015
Theatrical: Select theatrical release beginning May 6, 2015
New York: IFC Center – opens May 6, 2015
May 15:
Boston: Brattle Theater – opens May 15, 2015
Chicago: Gene Siskel Film Center – opens May 15, 2015
Columbus: Gateway Film Center – opens May 15, 2015
Detroit: Cinema Detroit – opens May 15, 2015
Los Angeles area:
– Los Angeles: Royal – opens May 15, 2015
– Santa Ana, CA: South Coast Village – opens May 15, 2015
Minneapolis: St Anthony Main – opens May 15, 2015
New Orleans: Zeitgeist Theater – opens May 15, 2015
Philadelphia: PFS at Roxy Theater – opens May 15, 2015
Portland: Living Room Theaters – opens May 15, 2015
San Diego: Digital Cinema – opens May 15, 2015
Santa Fe: CCA – opens May 15, 2015
San Francisco area:
– Berkeley: Rialto Cinemas Elmwood – opens May 15, 2015
– San Francisco: Balboa Theater – opens May 15, 2015
– Sonoma: Sebastopol Rialto Cinemas – opens May 15, 2015
Scottsdale: Shea 14 – opens May 15, 2015
May 22:
Eugene, OR: Metro Cinemas – opens May 22, 2015
Gainesville, FL: The Wooly – opens May 22, 2015
Louisville: Village 7 – opens May 22, 2015
Miami area:
– Coral Gables: Cosford Cinema – May 22,2015
– Miami: O-Cinema – opens May 22,2015
Palm Springs: Camelot – opens May 22, 2015
Pittsburgh: Hollywood Theater – opens May 22, 2015
Sedona, AZ: Mary Fischer Theater – opens May 22, 2015
May 29:
Denver: Sie Film Center – opens May 29, 2015
June 10:
Boulder, CO: Boedicker Theater – opens June 10, 2015
June 12:
Seattle: SIFF Cinema – opens June 12, 2015
Bellingham, WA: Pickford – opens June 12, 2015
Pelham, NY: Picturehouse – opens June 12, 2015

Director

Dave LaMattina and Chad N. Walker

Screenwriter

Dave LaMattina

Producer(s)

Dave LaMattina and Chad N. Walker

Cast

Caroll Spinney

Runtime

87 minutes

SYNOPSIS

For 45 years, Caroll Spinney has been beloved by generations of children as the man behind Sesame Street’s Big Bird and Oscar the Grouch – and at 80 years old, he has no intention of stopping. A loving portrait of the man in the yellow suit, I Am Big Bird features extraordinary footage of Spinney’s earliest collaborations with Jim Henson as it traces his journey from bullied child to childhood icon. And as the yellow feathers give way to grey hair, it is the man, not the puppet, who will steal your heart.

Liz’s Review: ‘WELCOME TO ME’ takes on mental illness with heart and humor.

Posted on April 30, 2015 by Liz Whittemore — Leave a reply

Mental illness is a touchy subject. Certainly putting a pretty face to it makes us more comfortable to talk about it. Films like Gabriel and Silver Linings Playbook have since tackled these issues, on two very opposite ends of the spectrum. A new film starring Kristen Wiig, Welcome to Me, looks at both sides of something that can be hard to discuss. The story revolves around a young woman with borderline personality disorder who wins 86 million dollars in the lottery. Obsessed with being the next Oprah, Alice approaches a local TV station and pays a great sum of money for them create a talk show just for her, about her, and only, her. Believing that her new found wealth can solve anything in her recently unmedicated surroundings, Alice’s behavior spins out of control as she becomes an internet sensation. The show becomes an inappropriate arena for her to air all the emotional hurt in her head. The station is owned by two very different brothers, Rich and Gabe. The first is desperate for the checks to keep rolling in from Alice, while the other, has his own issues and a thing for his new host. Can Alice pull her life together in time to save any of the relationships in her life?

This film is filled with a crazy talented cast. James Marsden plays the smarmier of the two brothers, while Wes Bentley is the odder, more lovable one. Marsden is a real dick, while Bentley is sensitive and interesting. The two are totally believable as siblings. Alan Tudyk, who I can never get enough of, is Alice’s gay ex-husband and charming and adorable as always. Joan Cusak, funny lady extraordinaire, plays Welcome To Me’s director so think Gelman à la Live with Kelly and Michael. Her sincerity is what makes her so effortlessly hilarious. Jennifer Jason Leigh is the more realistic producer who spends most of her time face palming and attempting to interject reason to this insane scenario. Linda Cardellini is Gina, Alice’s best friend since middle school. Cardellini is loving, quiet, and the ultimate caretaker. Tim Robbins plays Alice’s therapist. He puts his foot down when it comes to Alice pushing boundaries, and I would hire him as my real life Dr. in a heartbeat… is that weird?But let’s get to our leading lady, Kristen Wiig. Famous for her SNL characters like “The Target Lady”, “Penelope”, “Judy Grimes” (Just Kidding Lady), “Babe” (One-of-Two A-Holes), and “Junice Merill” (Slightly-Off Laurwence Welk Performer) but since her departure we’ve seen her take on some truly challenging indie roles. She was a delight in Hateship Loveship, The Diary of a Teenage Girl, and The Skeleton Twins. She, of course, has impeccable comic timing, but is exceptionally gifted in the dramatic. Also, on aside note, she is a pretty woman, no doubt, but there is something altogether gorgeous about her in Welcome To Me. The character of Alice Klieg is incredibly damaged, but if I’m being honest, she is just acting in the ways we all wish we could if they were socially acceptable. This is yet another performance in a long line of impressive ones for Kristen. For the love of all that is holy, go see her in this!

Synopsis: A woman with borderline personality disorder (Kristen Wiig) wins the Mega-
Millions and—much to the dismay of her parents, therapist, gay ex-husband and local TV station—uses the winnings to fund her lifelong dream of becoming the next Oprah.

Starring:

Kristen Wiig, Wes Bentley, Linda Cardellini, Joan Cusak, Loretta Devine, Jennifer Jason Leigh, Thomas Mann, James Marsden, Tim Robbins, Alan Tudyk

Written by Eliot Laurence

Directed by Shira Piven

WELCOME TO ME comes to theaters May 1st.

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The Little Death comes to theaters and VOD Friday, June 26th.

Country: Australia

Language: English

Release Date: 26 June 2015 (USA)

Filming Locations: Sydney, Australia

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Watch below!!

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Official Sites:

Country: Russia | Ukraine | Czech Republic

Language: Russian | English

Release Date: 22 May 2015 (USA)

Filming Locations: Russia

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