“Captain Abu Raed” website : http://www.captainaburaed.com/

“Captain Abu Raed” in imdb.com : http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1017428/

Last night I watched this movie.When I borowed it, I was a little bit skeptic.I tought will be another wanna be american drama movie.BUT I WAS WRONG, FOR THE FIRST TIME FROM A LONG TIME, I AM SO HAPPY THAT I WAS WRONG!

The movie is from Jordan, rarely that kind of movies, go to USA, or even Europe.We must be thankful to Amin Matalqa who written and directed this beautiful story.

I am not really good in explaining movies, so I will just write you what 2 people think about it.And IT WILL BE ENOUGH!

“A humanistic triumph…a stirring tribute to the invisible people in our world who might end up changing our lives.” – Stephen Farber from “The Hollywood Reporter”

“Feels like something Dickens might have written, if he had lived in the cinema age: it’s both tear-jerking and oddly spiritual.” – Lee Marshalll from “Screen Daily”

The ongoing 4th edition of African cinema festival in Poznan (and a few other Polish cities) called Afrykamera (http://afrykamera.pl) again drew my attention. Today I’ve seen Ethiopian ‘Teza’ – a study, or rather a deep surge into mechanisms of a birth of radical power, both in Ethiopia (totalitarism) and in Germany (racism, nationalism). Thanks to movies such as ‘Teza’ I’m convinced by those who claim that the next film industry giant, after Bollywood, is definitely situated on this still half-discovered (in terms of culture and political study) continent. It’s a must for the engaged and those who believe that there’s no black nor white power… Only the power of luv (even tho it sounds so trivial ;  ) Ok, more to see on the Festival (e.g. Polish – Burkina Faso cultural co-operatio!).

‘Teza’ trailer

An interview with the director, Haile Gerima for the Research Channel

The 8th edition of the Discovering Latin America Film Festival is taking place in London.  It’s a great opportunity to see the best Latin American cinema in London.
The Opening Night Gala is today and they will be showing ‘Blood and Rain‘ (La Sangre y la Lluvia) by Jorge Navas.

If you want to have a look at the programme, you can visit their website  http://www.discoveringlatinamerica.com/film-home.html

They also have an official Facebook page in case you want to join them.

December 3-6, Whistler Film Festival is four days of films, celebrities, red carpets and more.  Featuring over 90 films from Canada and around the world.   There is an opening gala and other cool parties.  Check out the website www.whistlerfilmfestival.com for more information.

I recently read this blog article from a woman in the Balkans and her thoughts about the place of art in culture. What messages are spoken in our music, films, painting, and dance? They certainly reflect our various stories and can tell of hope and despair, sometimes in the same moment.

“Fatalism, Pride, Pain, Mockery, Shame, Apathy… These are the recurring themes in the films that I have been attending at this year’s film festival here in Sarajevo. After three days of faithfully showing up to my ticketed seat, the heavier I feel inside when I walk out, as if my spirit is hiding from the uncertainty and oppression I am taking in with my eye and ear gates.

First of all, I love where I live, and I truly love these people. I understand them, even though they would say that I have no idea, that I’m just another American trying to come here and help. But behind that, I hear the voice of rejection, abandonment and fear. So attending this film festival has reconfirmed to me that I am exactly where I am supposed to be.”

Read more here: films-in-sarajevo-where-is-redemption

Win the new 16GB exclusive RED iPOD (it shoots VIDEO!) by simply visiting the ALM Talkies Newsletter and SUBSCRIBING NO LATER THAN DEC. 2 . . . THAT’S IT! You could be the winner. Already subscribed to the ALM Talkies newsletter? No worries, you’ll automatically be entered.

The first week of Girl In The Reds Dress Giveaway starts Nov. 26, and is sponsored by THE REDS. The first winner’s iPOD Nano will be loaded with three songs by The Reds, SIDEBUSTER, DIGGIN’ IT and BIG TOWN, PLUS a brand new film short by British director, Peter McAdam, of The Reds song SO LONG, and the first winner gets two Reds pins.

Also loaded on the iPOD, for every winner, will be Girl In The Red Dress: EP, single “Who’s That Girl,” and artwork, Dirty Step Upstage: Trailer, featurettes, unseen stills, and exclusive music video preview, a personalized video to the winner using the iPod nano video recorder, and Dirty Up Stage promotional pins, and DSU movie poster!

Hey, before you click over to the ALM Talkies web site, SUBSCRIBE to THE REDS BLOG, to get The Reds news and promotion info first.

-Posted by Tarock Music

International Horizons will be attending the UK Snow Film Fest, we are sponsors at the UK Snow Film Fest. We have some fantastic Ski Apartments in Ukraine for sale prices start from £30,350 in this up and coming ski resort, which is already really popular with the Ukrainians so much so there is not enough accomodation in the area for all the skier & snowboarders. These apartments are located only 400m from the lifts.

If you would like tickets to the event please visit the UK Snow Film Fest webiste.

More about the event:-

As the first of its kind, the UK SNOW FILM FESTIVAL is breaking new ground – this won’t be a conventional, ‘sit still in your seats and clap politely’ film fest. No,  you can expect a festival-like atmosphere, with beer, wine and food throughout the night, as well as various competitions and giveaways. Following the films – which start at 6pm each evening – there will be a banging after-party with big name guest DJs.

Get excited and celebrate the start of a new season with a Two day movie festival of the latest and greatest snow movie productions from across the world.

i wish i could come (

4 Des
OPENING MOVIE – Sang Pemimpi (The Dreamers)

5 Des
Max & Co.
Terribly Happy (Frygtelig Lykkelig)
The Damned United
Ten Conditions of Love
Three Monkeys (Üç maymun)
Swiss Shorts
Love & Rage (Vanvittig Forelsket)
You Cannot Hide from Allah
Chiko
Letters to the President
North (Nord)
15 Malaysia
The Damned United
Burma VJ: Reporting from a Closed Country (Burma VJ: Reporter i et lukket land)
Bilal
Home

6 Des
Jerichow
Troubled Water (DeUsynlige)
On a Tightrope
Fugu
A Road to Mecca: The Journey of Muhammad Asad (Der Weg nach Mekka – Die Reise des Muhammad Asad)
Balibo
Hold Me Tight, Let Me Go
Max & Co.
S-Express : Indonesia
Mammoth
Soundtrack For A Revolution
Sawasdee Bangkok
Kala Malam Bulan Mengambang (When the Full Moon Rises)

7 Des
Garuda Di Dadaku (Garuda In My Heart)
Romeo Juliet
Babi Buta Yang Ingin Terbang (Blind Pig Who Wants To Fly)
Chiko
You Cannot Hide from Allah
Letters to the President
S-Express : Singapore
Dernier Marquis (Adhen)
S-Express : Thailand
Love the Beast
The Damned United
Citizen Juling (Polamuang Juling)
Coco Before Chanel (Coco Avant Chanel)
Around the World with Joseph Stiglitz
Everlasting Moments (Maria Larssons eviga ögonblick)
Applause (Applaus)

8 Des
King
Kado Hari Jadi (The Anniversary Gift)
Pintu Terlarang (The Forbidden Door)
Hold Me Tight, Let Me Go
International Shorts
Gubra (Anxiety)
Mammoth
A Dream For Kabul
Coco Before Chanel (Coco Avant Chanel)
Malaysian Gods
Home
Soundtrack For A Revolution
Terribly Happy (Frygtelig Lykkelig)
Sepet (Slit Eye)
On a Tightrope

9 Dec
Merantau (Merantau Warrior)
Cin(t)a (God is a Director)
Jermal
Troubled Water (DeUsynlige)
S-Express : Chinese
The Beaches of Agnes (Les Plages D\’Agnes)
Ten Conditions of Love
Three Monkeys (Üç maymun)
99% Honest (99% ærlig)
Coffee & Allah
Muallaf (The Convert)
(500) Days of Summer
The Headless Woman (La Mujer Sin Cabeza)
Around the World with Joseph Stiglitz
Love the Beast

10 Dec
Get Married 2
3 Doa 3 Cinta (3 Wishes 3 Loves)
Keramat (Sacred)
A Dream For Kabul
Balibo
Sepet (Slit Eye)
S-Express : Phillipines
S-Express : Malaysia
Jerichow
At The End of Daybreak (Sham moh)
A Road to Mecca: The Journey of Muhammad Asad
Adela
Legend is Alive (Huyền Thoại Bất Tử)
North (Nord)
Dernier Marquis (Adhen)

11 Dec
Bukan Cinta Biasa (Not An Ordinary Love)
Under the Tree
Coffee & Allah
99% Honest (99% ærlig)
Identitas (Identity)
Little Soldier (Lille Soldat)
Muallaf (The Convert)
Winter Silence (Winterstilte)
Calimucho
Love & Rage (Vanvittig Forelsket)
Manila
Gubra (Anxiety)
Departures (Okuribito)
Talentime
The Beaches of Agnes (Les Plages D\’Agnes)
(500) Days of Summer
Rabun (My Failing Eyesight)
Kala Malam Bulan Mengambang (When the Full Moon Rises)

12 Dec
Calimucho
Here
Departures (Okuribito)
Swiss Shorts
Everlasting Moments (Maria Larssons eviga ögonblick)
Legend is Alive (Huyền Thoại Bất Tử)
Little Soldier (Lille Soldat)
Bilal
CLOSING MOVIE – New York I Love You

Opening dan Closing Movie hanya untuk undangan. Jadi yang ngerasa ga diundang kita tunggu aja film nya beredar secara reguler. hiks..hiks..

Kalau memang tugas saya selesai, saya mau dateng hari sabtu dan minggu. Wish me luck saja ya guys. Dan selamat menonton

cerita yaa buat yang dateng…

Damn i hate college!

Regard,

The Viewers

Lithuania is home of Vilnius Film Festival and this year Vilnius decided to          create Vilnius Comedy Film Festival and take the laughs out to the people.  “Three-Fifty” will screen in three (3) Lithuania cities in the next few weeks.   Which cities? So glad you asked.  Here is a map of the cities so you can follow along…

Lithuania has special significance for me (Melinda Augustina) as my first college level acting professor was from Lithuania.  He came to America as a young child when his family was fleeing Europe in WWII.  His name was Joseph Daubenas.  He was TOUGH — we were hopelessy naive.  We loved him and realized (somewhat) how lucky we were for him to have chosen to teach in Kansas City for a few years while working on his PhD.   He had studied and taught at American Academy of Dramatic Arts and acted and directed in New York for many years working a lot with Harold Clurman and orignating some roles Off-Broadway.   In one article Daubenas was called a “Tasmanian Devil” by a reporter who watched him direct a rehearsal in New York City. (Tasmania is pretty far from Lithuania, but it’s still a fun reference.)   One of his television roles was as a Mad Scientist — and that he was.

We are honored that “Three-Fifty” will screen in Lithuania and enjoying this great lesson that energy eventually returns from where it came.   And so we sign off with the Lithuanian National Anthem and photos of their beautiful country. Thank you, Lithuania.    http://bit.ly/1aERfs

The 50th Thessaloniki International Film Festival is ending today. So today would be the last chance for anybody who’s living or visiting Thessloniki, Greece to watch the façade projection from Urbanscreen on the “Olympion” building where the TIFF has its headquarters.

Urbanscreen projection is an artistic approach to the main motto of the 50th film festival of Thessaloniki, “Why cinema now?”. Through their eyes cinema is de constructing on the façade of  “Olympion” and reconstructing in a way that any viewer could give his own answer to the question.

Urbanscreen conceive and produce custom-made media installations using high artistic standards, an architectural approach and a consistently professional completion; in doing so, creating uniquely outstanding impressions. In order to achieve it in Thessaloniki they teamed up with Alphavision, by using their equipment and technical skills. Alphavision’s experienced audiovisual department worked with Urbanscreen, providing the necessary equipments, two Cristie LX-1500 projectors with 15000 ANSI lumens, high performance special lenses and skilled technicians for a 10 days support. The result you can see it in the video above.

“So Long,” a garage rock noir film short by British director, Peter McAdam (mcdada.com), was released today by Tarock Music.

“So Long” is track 9 on THE REDS album, Early Nothing (Tarock Music © 2009).

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD YOUR FREE COPY OF “SO LONG” FROM YouTUBE

The album EARLY NOTHING can be purchased from CD BABY, DIGSTATION, AMAZON, iTUNES, and other popular download sites.

- Posted by Tarock Music

Basu Chatterjee With Media Students At Global Festival Of Films.2009 “I have always convinced my self with the story, if I am satisfied then only I jump for direction” said the renowned film maker Basu Chatterjee, who has directed more than 50 feature films like Rajangandha, Chitchor, Choti Si Baat, Pasand Apni Apni and TV serials like Rajani, Kakaji and many others while talking to the students of AAFT, ASMS and ABS on the occasion of seminar organized on the first day of 2nd Global Festival Of Documentary Films at Noida Film City.

 Commenting on latest trends of bollywood he clearly said to media that there is no formula of successful films. It is the conviction of film makers and his passion which drives him to go for the next venture even if the last film has not done well. “I am too pleased to be here at AAFT for Global Festival Of Documentary Films and will continue to see films at IFFI next week.” Basu added.

I have decided to prepare a library of all the films of Basu Chatterjee which I believe will bring a new thinking in the minds of young film makers, said Sandeep Marwah. In a jam packed auditorium the president of Marwah Studios and GFF Sandeep Marwah honoured Basu Chatterjee with the life membership of International Film and Television Club.

The current economic climate has caused many vacationers to rethink their winter holiday plans. With a tumbling stock market and employment numbers down, a recession seems to be looming in both the United States and Canada. Traditionally, the winter is time for many Canadians, and Americans from the northern states, to plan a winter getaway from the cold and snow. However, this year, many will be searching for an alternative to an expensive southern vacation and look to uncover a vacation destination that is closer to home.

One place that vacationers might consider for a winter getaway is the city of Kingston in Ontario, Canada. Located at the eastern end of Lake Ontario, at the mouth of the historic St. Lawrence River, Kingston is a short drive from the large population centres of Toronto, Ontario’s Golden Horseshoe and New York state, making it a low cost destination. This scenic lakeside city has a wealth of attractions and winter events to entertain the entire family. History abounds here. Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald called Kingston home. Kingston is also Canada’s second oldest city and has many historic buildings, impressive architecture, and interesting attractions. The city is home to the world famous Queens University, the Royal Military College, and historic Old Fort Henry. History comes alive in Kingston with its winding cobblestone paths leading past century-old homes, parks, and museums.

During the winter, Kingston is host to a number of special festivals and events. One popular winter event is Kingston’s Feb Fest, an annual winter party that draws more than 30,000 people each year. Festival events include hockey tournaments, skating, rock concerts, ice and snow sculptures, horse-drawn wagon rides, and much more. The entire town participates, with restaurants offering special menus and shops festive displays. Throughout the winter, the city of Kingston maintains an ice-rink at Market Square located right beside the beautiful and historic city hall building. Each day, office workers join Kingston visitors and area residents for a free glide around the ice during the day or under the stars at night.

Another very popular Kingston wintertime event is The Kingston Canadian Film Festival. The film festival, which takes place for one week every February, is a not-to-be-missed experience for anyone who loves film. Now in its 8th season, the Kingston Canadian Film Festival draws movie fans and movie industry guests from all over. The festival features the best in Canadian films and hosts a wide variety of informative classes and lectures, as well as parties and receptions.

Many believe that Kingston is a great place to vacation because it is a beautiful city with so much to offer visitors every season of the year. Additionally, many tourists and residents alike understand that a trip to Kingston is like stepping back into the past. Its historic limestone stone buildings, fine old homes and intriguing history, along with the city’s abundance of gourmet eateries, delightful shops, museums and thriving theatre scene, give Kingston an truly European flare that make this an ideal vacation destination.

Kingston, Ontario has long been a favourite romantic couple’s getaway destination and leisure traveller’s preferred place to visit, relax, and indulge. By offering visitors a variety of fun winter events, Kingston will also continue to attract to the area more family holiday vacationers looking for an exiting Ontario winter getaway.

"Limits of Control," Jim Jarmusch, 2009.

Yesterday wrapped up the final day of screenings for Cairo’s International Film Festival, and though I only managed to make it to three screenings towards the end of the event, Jim Jarmusch’s May release “The Limits of Control” occupied all the filmic processing  capacity of my brain. The screening we attended was filled mostly by expats and artsy types, go figure.

The film, directed by Jarmusch, shot by Christopher Doyle (In the Mood for Love), and starring Isaach de Bankole (Coffee and Cigarettes, Night on Earth, Ghost dog: the Way of the Samurai) brought together a whimsically honest style, great locations in Spain (Madrid, Tribunal; Sevilla), glorious cinematography in a crazy, mysterious story of retribution against reality (played briefly and hilariously by none other than Bill Murray).

Needless to say, the walk out of the theatre for the group I saw it with was a slow bizzare one. Hard to say why, but the film resonated with themes in my life in a way that I can’t really understand. However, the length and meditative pace and repitition of the film had one of my fellow viewers retitle the film “Limits of my Patience.” I find this a bit harsh, but the film certainly does require the viewer to submit their viewing style to Jarmusch’s vision, which feels invasive to say the least – but that’s the success of this film in my opinion. It forced me to open up to the story, and proceeded to enter me and make things vibrate that I didn’t know existed.

Check out the trailer for ‘Limits of Control’ at Apple.

The Red Carpet became the centre of attraction on the opening of 2nd Global Festival of Documentary films at Film City Noida organized by International Film And Television Club under the president ship of Sandeep Marwah of Marwah Studios a renowned Media, Film and TV personality of this part of the World.

 “I have always believe in promoting young and talented film makers by creating an opportunity for them in this beautiful trade” said Sandeep Marwah to the international press gathered along with film makers, participants, who”s who of entertainment industry, film and TV students from all over the World.

A formal inauguration took place by lighting the lamp by the renowned, veteran writer, producer and Director Basu Chatterjee along with film director Pankaj Parashar, Manoj Pahwa the famous actor ,Tarry Parrish of Ice Academy, U.K, film maker Shekh Nasir with Suman Bajaj Kalra festival Director and President of the festival Sandeep Marwah.

 The festival started with the scheduled program of screening films in three theatres for the first hour followed by huge list of films to follow. “Not much festivals in India promoting documentaries, this festival is the real breathing to the documentary film makers and that too at this scale” said Basu Chatterjee. “I believe in the management of IFTC. This time Global has touched the documentaries, other wise there are no supporters other than government.” said Pankaj Parashar. “I have come all the way from UK to support Sandeep for his venture we need promoters and people with innovative ideas” said Terry Parrish.

 The festival is supported by Asian Academy of Film and TV, Asian School of Media Studies, Asian Business School, AAFT School of Graphics and Animation, International Film And Television Research Centre, Radio Noida 107.4FM.and others.

I recently donated a painting to the Save The Waves Film Festival. It was one of the prizes raffled off at the event. I hear it was a great night.

Sta per prender il via la 13ª edizione del Tertio Millennio Film Fest, Festival organizzato dalla Fondazione Ente dello Spettacolo, con l’adesione del Presidente della Repubblica, Il Pontificio Consiglio della Cultura, il Pontificio Consiglio delle Comunicazioni Sociali e il Comune di Roma.

Il programma della Rassegna cinematografica del Tertio Millennio Film Fest, che si terrà dal 1 al 6 dicembre 2009 presso la Sala Cinema Trevi (vicolo del Puttarello 25 – zona Fontana di Trevi), dedicato quest’anno alle “Forme di resistenza” è disponibile qui scaricando il flyer del programma.

rassegna-tertiomillennio-film-fest

Tra le anteprime del festival: “Donne senza uomini” di Shirin Neshat, “Uomini Contro” di Francesco Rosi, “Tra le nuvole” di Jason Reitman, “Lourdes” di Jessica Hausner.

Il festival verrà preceduto, come di consueto, dal Convegno Internazionale di Studi organizzato proprio nell’ambito del Tertio Millennio Film Fest: si terrà il 24 e 25 novembre 2009, sempre presso la Sala Cinema Trevi. Titolo del Convegno è “La storia dopo il cinema. Percezione, senso, azione nel mondo visto” e sono previsti i seguenti interventi:

MARTEDI’, 24 NOVEMBRE 2009, ORE 15.30

• S.E. Mons. Gianfranco Ravasi, Presidente del Pontificio Consiglio della Cultura
• Daniele Vicari, regista cinematografico
• Prof. Giorgio De Vincenti, Università Roma Tre
• Prof. Marco Maria Gazzano, Università Roma Tre
• Prof. Mario Perniola, Università Tor Vergata

MERCOLEDI’, 25 NOVEMBRE 2009, ORE 09.30

• S.E. Mons. Claudio Maria Celli, Presidente del Pontificio Consiglio delle Comunicazioni Sociali
• Marco Bellocchio, regista cinematografico
• Dott. Pietro Vereni, Università di Tor Vergata
• Dott. Giacomo Ravesi, Università Roma Tre
• Dott.ssa Elena Canadelli, Università Milano Bicocca

Coordinatore dei lavori sarà Serafino Murri, Regista cinematografico e docente IULM di Milano.

Programma Convegno

Informazioni più dettagliate sul Convegno e sul Festival sono disponibili nel sito della manifestazione  www.tertiomillenniofilmfest.org.

I had an opportunity to attend an OBS event last night. It was a short film screening of works by up-and-coming and tenured directors, writers, and producers. I must say that this event is an event that fresh faces should find time to attend.  It was an intimate crowd, maybe 30-40 people, who were all ’somebody to know’ within the industry.

I didn’t realize that so many significant people were going to be at this event, but that’s just a reminder that as an entreprenuer, you must always be on your A-game…because you just never know who you’ll meet.

OBS presented about six short films, which were all very amazing, some shining brighter than others.  My favorite was Akira’s Hip Hop Shop, written and directed by Joe Doughrity. Its a comedic story about the most untraditional interracial couple, a Black woman and a Japanese man, dealing with the social judgement of their friends and family. Every character played an intrical part of the story. It was refreshing to see Asian culture, specifically Japanese, outside of the mainstream stereo-types. It was an amazing piece and the writer Joe Doughrity said its going from short film to feature. So look out for Akira’s Hip Hop Shop..Here’s the trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhjxM37-qpk&feature=PlayList&p=5CD790331A9A4202&playnext=1&playnext_from=PL&index=48

My next favorite piece was the shortest of them all: “Choke” written & animated by, Terence Anthony. This short cartoon was laugh-out-loud funny. It could’ve easily been on cartoon network’s, Adult Swim.  Lydia, a Black woman climbing the corporate ladder is almost strangled in her car when her pompous white colleague comes to brag about how he’s on top and she’s never gonna take over..Unbeknownst to him the killer, Max is in the backseat, (with his Palin ‘12 t-shirt (hilarious!) ) and is so annoyed with him and his Yuppie attitude he just decides to Choke the s*** out of him instead; and the strangest conversation emerges thereafter between Lydia and Max. The first question I asked Terence is how the heck did you come up with this concept. It was morbidly hilarious! Its actually playing here: http://www.atom.com/funny_videos/3EFBFFFF01C3BACA001700C6D059/

One thing Terence said when asked why he decided to animate the project himself, “I couldn’t find anyone else who was interested in animating my short…so I just did it myself”–Actors, writers, producers, directors—artist…Don’t wait for networks, agents, managers to do it for you…Get your art out there! People are waiting to hear it, to see it, to experience you and your brilliant talents!

(Terence also has a play “Blood and Thunder” showing at Moving Arts-Hyperion Station…for more info: www.movingarts.org . Also, check out www.orlandosjoint.com –its an animated comedy series by Mr. Anthony aswell!)

If you have a short film and want it screened with OBS or just want to learn more about the organization and be a part of go to : http://www.obswriter.com

OBS’s next event is December 15th from 7pm-1am a screening and holiday party at Ultra Lounge 6039 Washington Blvd, Culver City, CA 90232

I’ll be there, with my business cards and A-game! Hope to see you as well!!

–Ash

Some slightly um- *mischevious* looking kids from "The Children".

Do you live in the West Midlands area? Fancy watching a film at the cinema for FREE?

If so head over to the Screen West Midlands  site to find out about the free screenings until November 29th as part of the Festival of Films season. There are all sorts of genres covered during the filmfest from romantic comedy to horror and everything in between. Films are free but you need to book your seat in advance. Click here for full schedule and venues.

We can’t say enough about all of the amazing films that are part of this year’s International Film Festival.  The festival actually launched a French Film Festival in August that we’ll have to pay closer attention to next fall.  If you haven’t made it to any films yet, here are two of the 20 showing this weekend (the children’s movie is free!).  Enjoy!

This weekend Cinema St. Louis’s International Film Festival features two new-to-St. Louis French African films: I Bring What I Love and La Reine Soleil.

For those interested in Senegal and West African Music:
Friday night Webster University will screen, “I Bring what I Love,” a documentary about mbalax and world-music start Youssou Ndour.  He is probably the most known of the Senegalese musicians and this film captures rare footage of Youssou in the very early 70s when he began his career.  It also pays particular attention to his Grammy winning album, “Egypt,” which caused some controversy in  Senegal about the role of music and religion.  Ndour maintains that he used that album to bring attention to African Islam – highlighting spiritual leaders important in the creation of brotherhoods founded in Senegal, which now have a large international following.
The screening begins at 7pm and Peace Corps representatives will  be there talking about their program as they are co-sponsoring this screening.

Full-length animated children’s feature:

Saturday morning Washington University will screen La Reine Soleil (Princess of the Sun) at 10am.

In 18th century Egypt Queen Nefertiti’s daughter sets off to find out why she has been exiled and return her to her rightful place.

This, along with photos, bio and fact sheet for D.L. went out… Check it out and share it if you can! I wrote it, with the help of D.L.’s film descriptions. Thanks. -MPO.

Manic Schematic PR Firm
Mike Phelan O’Toole
Mikeovideo@gmail.com
###-###-#### / ###-###-###
http://www.MikeOToole.net
http://www.DLPolonsky.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Boston Indie Filmmaker, Video Artists Hit PTown To Host
Retrospective, Surreal Film Showcase at The Art House Theatre

(Boston, MA, 10/1/09) – Indie filmmaker D.L. Polonsky and video artist
Mike Phelan O’Toole, after a series of acclaimed screenings at
Brookline, MA’s famous Coolidge Corner Theatre, and off the heels of a
tour stop in Providence, RI, announce the arrival of “D.L. Polonsky’s
Non-Violent Anarchy Film Festival” to Provincetown, MA. This Polonsky
“career retrospective” showcase will be a two hour movie screening of
eclectic low budget films, animation, nontraditional music videos and
esoteric video art, taking place at Provincetown’s famed Art House
Theatre, at 214 Commercial St, on October 24th at 8:00PM. The show
will be emceed by O’Toole, noted for his caustic wit in spokenword
performance, and the colorful pun-spouting Polonsky himself. A lively
question and answer session will follow the films. The event is
sponsored in part by prolific Boston video artist and cable access
show producer Lawrence Hollie. Admission is $5.00.

Polonsky’s innovative work dates back to when he was a young boy,
crafting strange and provocative films with his brother, Gabriel. The
event will exhibit a selection of modern work, such as “To Mock a
Killing Bird,” a slapstick anti-war comedy about a
draft-dodger, set from 1972-74, and “Grill, Interrupted,” which
chronicles the surreal development of a comedy cooking show, as well
as older, rare gems, such as “The Flyer.” This is a short film that
mixes live action with D.L.’s own animation, as the images of a flyer
an unsuspecting man posts begin to come to life. The festival caps off
with “The Big Wall,” a longer-form film made in the early 90’s. After
an artist is hired to draw charicatures at a same-sex wedding, one of
the men getting married is killed by gay-bashers. The movie is laced
with socio-political commentary on gay people being accepted in
mainstream society, and other social issues. In addition, the lineup
includes a promo for the film Polonsky is currently crafting, “12:54,
Half a Dozen of the Other.” This film stars Lawrence Hollie, Andy
MacBain, and event co-host Mike Phelan O’Toole. It is a comedy-drama
about a lumber salesman who finds buried coins during the current
recession.

For more information on the film lineup for “D.L. Polonsky’s
Non-Violent Anarchy Film Festival,” and to arrange interviews, please
contact Mike Phelan O’Toole. Photos and a fact sheet are available

As an Editor’s Pick, Shaula Clark, of The Boston Phoenix, proclaims
Polonsky’s “Nonviolent Anarchy” fest to include “The kind of films
that could revolutionize cinema, nonviolently or otherwise.”
Additionally, for those wanting to pin down D.L.’s style, The
Brookline Tab’s Alex Stevens winkingly suggests to “Think David Lynch,
without all the mainstream storytelling.” As a locally renowned,
openly gay artist, living in Allston, MA, D.L. has been profiled in
Boston’s version of the Bay Windows newspaper on more than one
occasion.

The showcase comes out of a desire from the trio to expand their potential
audience, and reward quality creative efforts that may be overlooked
by more pretentious “festival” outlets, “It’s a very D.I.Y, punk
approach. We want to show people that these different works can be
innovative and entertaining, and that the personalities behind them
are just as interesting,” says O’Toole. “We saw it was important to
expand outside the Boston area, and we’re really excited to meet a new
audience. D.L.’s flicks are so wild. He deserves to see his work up on
the big screen, live, and so do underground film fans everywhere, even
though he is too modest to want to have a press release put out to let
people know about this show.”

In addition to his video work, Polonsky has made a name for himself in
the Allston area as the anti-Shepard Fairy, plastering his artwork up
wherever it will stick, while simultaneously having had political
portraits published in several major newspapers and magazines.
Additionally, he has had a children’s book published that he
wrote/illustrated titled “The Letter Bandits.”

Hollie and O’Toole have been advocates of collaborative media, and
purveyors of unique video art, as producers/ hosts of the cable access
show “Random Acts,” for seven years, in addition to having co-founded
the multi-artist alternative film showcase series “Experimentally
ILL,” which has been warmly received by Boston press and audiences alike.
They are recipients of separate “Most Innovative” awards from The
Alliance For Community Media for their creative productions.

###

Manic Schematic PR Firm
Mike Phelan O’Toole
Mikeovideo@gmail.com
###-###-#### / ###-###-####
http://www.MikeOToole.net
http://www.DLPolonsky.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Boston Indie Filmmaker, Video Artists Hit The Road To Host
Retrospective, Surreal Film Showcase at The Cable Car Cinema

(Boston, MA, 8/20/09) – Indie filmmaker D.L. Polonsky and video artist
Mike Phelan O’Toole, after a series of acclaimed screenings at
Brookline, MA’s famous Coolidge Corner Theatre, announce the arrival
of “D.L. Polonsky’s Non-Violent Anarchy Film Festival” to Rhode
Island. This Polonsky “career retrospective” showcase will be a two
hour movie screening of eclectic low budget films, animation,
nontraditional music videos and esoteric video art, taking place at
Providence’s historic Cable Car Cinema on September 3rd at 9:30PM. The
show will be emceed by O’Toole, noted for his caustic wit in spoken
word performance, and the colorful pun-spouting Polonsky himself. A
lively question and answer session will follow the films. The event is
sponsored in part by prolific Boston video artist and cable access
show producer Lawrence Hollie.

Polonsky’s innovative work dates back to when he was a young boy,
crafting strange and provocative films with his brother, Gabriel. The
event will exhibit a selection of modern work, such as “To Mock a
Killing Bird,” a slapstick anti-war comedy about a
draft-dodger, set from 1972-74, and Midlife Cowboy, wherein, a cowboy,
fed up with our ubiquitous computer culture, indulges in a little of
his own “computer hacking” by smashing a computer with an axe, as well
as older, rare gems, such as “Ersatz;” made in 1974, when D.L. was 13.
This is a short film about a pulp novel writer who carries around her
dead father’s head. A Disease Called Man, a far-out crime drama, stars
O’Toole and Hollie. The film Urban Fairy, about an extraterrestrial
wanting to fly back to his planet, was co-edited by O’Toole and
Polonsky. For more information on the film lineup, “D.L. Polonsky’s
Non-Violent Anarchy Film Festival,” and to arrange interviews, please
contact Mike Phelan O’Toole.

As an Editor’s Pick, Shaula Clark, of The Boston Phoenix, proclaims
Polonsky’s “Nonviolent Anarchy” fest to include “The kind of films
that could revolutionize cinema, nonviolently or otherwise.”
Additionally, for those wanting to pin down D.L.’s style, The
Brookline Tab’s Alex Stevens winkingly suggests to “Think David Lynch,
without all the mainstream storytelling.”

The showcase comes out of a desire from the trio to expand their live
audience, and reward quality creative efforts that may be overlooked
by more pretentious “festival” outlets, “It’s a very D.I.Y, punk
approach. We want to show people that these different works can be
innovative and entertaining, and that the personalities behind them
are just as interesting,” says O’Toole. “We saw it was important to
expand outside the Boston area, and we’re really excited to meet a new
audience. D.L.’s flicks are so wild. He deserves to see his work up on
the big screen, live, and so do underground film fans everywhere. The
Q&A afterwards is the best!”

In addition to his video work, Polonsky has made a name for himself in
the Allston area as the anti-Shepard Fairy, plastering his artwork up
wherever it will stick, while simultaneously having had political
portraits published in several major newspapers and magazines.
Additionally, he has had a children’s book published that he
wrote/illustrated titled “The Letter Bandits.”

Hollie and O’Toole have been advocates of collaborative media, and
purveyors of unique video art, as producers/ hosts of the cable access
show “Random Acts,” for seven years, in addition to having co-founded
the multi-artist alternative film showcase series “Experimentally
ILL,” which has been warmly received by Boston press and audiences.
They are recipients of separate “Most Innovative” awards from The
Alliance For Community Media for their creative productions.

The next “Non-Violent Anarchy Film Fest” event, with a fresh lineup,
tours to The Provincetown Art House, in Provincetown, MA, October
24th, 2009.

###

Written by Mike Phelan O’Toole:

Local filmmaker and artist D.L. Polonsky announces the preliminary
lineup for a showcase of his work taking place at The Coolidge Corner
Theatre June 25th, 2009. Now living in the Brookline/Allston area,
D.L.’s innovative work dates back to when he was a young boy, crafting
strange and provacative films with his brother. The event will exhibit
a selection of modern work, as well as older, rare gems. The show will
be hosted by Polonsky and Mike Phelan O’Toole, a friend and actor of
Polonsky’s, noted for his previous involvement in the Coolidge’s
“Experimentally ILL” showcase. Press coverage, including interviews is
being sought. Films are available for review upon request,

Email D.L. at d.l.polonsky@hotmail.com
Email Mike with media questions at mikeovideo@gmail.com

D.L. POLONSKY’S NONVIOLENT ANARCHY FILM FESTIVAL

An Evening of the Films of Boston-based Indie Filmmaker D.L. Polonsky

WHEN: Thursday, June 25th, 2009, 7 P.M. – 9 P.M.

WHERE: At The Coolidge Corner Theatre,

290 Harvard St., Brookline, Mass., 02446

$5 admission

LINEUP:

Urban Fairy, (2005). An extraterrestrial finds severed body parts in
this surreal comedy short.

To Mock a Killing Bird, (2006). Slapstick anti-war comedy about a
draft-dodger, set from 1972-74.

Midlife Cowboy, (2007). A cowboy, fed up with our ubiquitous computer
culture, indulges in a little of his own “computer hacking” by
smashing a computer with an axe.

Dream Sequence for A Tree Grows in Brookline, (2008). Surreal montage
of images set to music.

Changing Face from The Human Race, (1983). A poster for a bar comes
alive. Paper cell animation.

Ersatz, (1974). Made when D.L. was 13, this is a short film about a
pulp novel writer who carries around her dead father’s head.

Beyond the Phosphenes, (1982). Paper cell animation of fantasy images.

A Disease Called Man: The Director’s Cut, (2008). While there’s a
killer loose in the neighborhood, potential victims have to deal with
corrupt cops and unethical doctors.

Promo for upcoming 12:54, Half a Dozen of the Other. This
work-in-progress will be a character study at least in part about a
group of people’s delusional reactions to the current recession. Due
out in the Fall of 2009.

Fore more info/media contact :

Email D.L. at d.l.polonsky@hotmail.com
Email Mike at mikeovideo@gmail.com

Manic Schematic PR Firm
Mike Phelan O’Toole
mikeovideo@gmail.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Video Artists Unveil Own Alternative Film Showcase at Coolidge Corner Theatre

(Boston, MA, 1/9/08) – Cable access show producers and local video
artists Mike Phelan O’Toole and Lawrence Hollie announce the third
installment of their “Experimentally Ill” showcase; a two hour movie
screening of eclectic low budget films, animation, music videos and
esoteric video art, taking place at Brookline’s historic Coolidge
Corner Theatre on February 26th at 7:00PM. Emceed by O’Toole and
Quincy Brisco of WBCN Boston’s “Toucher and Rich” radio program, the
event will exhibit works by O’Toole and Hollie, and other innovative
indie video-makers.

The showcase comes out of a desire from the duo to reward quality
creative efforts that may be overlooked by more pretentious “festival”
outlets, “It’s a very D.I.Y, punk approach. We want to show people
that these different works can be innovative and entertaining, and
that the personalities behind them are just as interesting,” says
O’Toole. “We saw we needed a bigger stage than simply a TV screen.
This is a love letter to small artists with big visions. The live
energy raises the stakes.”

Past screenings have included the Emmy-winning “It’s Jerry Time” web
cartoons, films of artist D.L. Polonsky, music videos of rock bands
Uncle Monsterface and Midatlantic and other works. For more on
Experimentally Ill, please contact Mike Phelan O’Toole.

Hollie and O’Toole have been advocates of collaborative media, and
purveyors of unique video art, as producers/ hosts of the cable access
show “Random Acts,” for seven years. They are recipients of separate
“Most Innovative” awards from The Alliance For Community Media for
their creative productions.

###

(Seeking interviews for features covering the artists/presenters, and
the event, or event previews, listings, and anything else. A WORD file
of the press release is attached. Alternate PHOTOS for pieces are
available upon request, if a photo shoot is not desired. Many thanks. )

Visit the following links for some previous coverage on past
shows and events.

http://www.wickedlocal.com/needham/news/x1001331782/Needham-resident-promotes-creativity-through-cable-access-show

http://www.metrobostonnews.com/us/article/2008/07/10/02/3327-66/index.xml?print=1

A brief wrieup was also in the Boston Phoenix September 11th, 2008
issue – Arts + Music + Events, pg. 3

We came to NYC on 11/13 to screen our short film Snow Bunny at the Queens International Film Fest.  Here’s what we did on Day #1.  Here’s what we did on Day #2.

DAY THREE, SUNDAY, 11/15

Brunch w/ Nina-Rose

Still high from our screening on Saturday night, Jessica and I skipped to a coffee shop in Jackson Heights for coffee, pumpkin scones, and good company. Jackson Heights, by the way, is supposedly the most diverse area in the country.  We might vouch for that. A neighborhood with people of many ages, social levels, and ethnic backgrounds. Kumbaya!

Catching up on the interwebs

Relaxing at The Verve

Found out from trusty Twitter friend Matt Shea (@MattOfAllMedia) that the QIFF awards ceremony was pushed back to 6:30pm (I’m guessing someone had to make another emergency run to Staples. Get it?  Because on Day #2…oh, nevermind…), so we decided to relax at the hotel before meeting a friend for dinner. One of us turned on a football game and fell asleep. Her name rhymes with Dessica.

Subway art

Pretty subway car (sans upholstry)

Refreshed and revitalized, we headed to Manhattan.

J & J on NYC train: "No upholstery!"

J & J on San Fran train: "Upholstery?"

Unlike the public transit in San Francisco, the NYC trains were completely upholstery-free…which we liked.

The stars of Snow Bunny

On the train, we got a message from Marci and Jeremy, the stars of Snow Bunny. Turns out their baby boy, Isaac Evan Price, arrived on the night of the Snow Bunny screening at QIFF. We don’t have a picture yet, so you’ll have to trust us that he’s beautiful.  And he definitely has star potential…Snow Bunny 2, anyone?

Justin & Julie

Julie & Jess in NYC

Met Julie’s old high school friend Justin for dinner at Little Frankie’s on the Lower East Side.  Great food.  Great conversation. Great way to spend our last night in NYC.  We flew back to Chicago the following morning.

And that brings us to the end.

• Did we enjoy our trip? Yes.

• Do we want to go to more film festivals? Absolutely.

• Anything we would have done differently? We were a bit shy at this fest, so next time we’ll try to meet more filmmakers and make more contacts.  We’ll also set aside more time to see other films.

• What was the best part about the fest? Showing Snow Bunny; meeting filmmaker Matt Shea, producer Maria Lokken & Eren Gulfidan from the Film Annex.

• What was the worst part? Showing Snow Bunny. (Just teasing…we were nervous but proud.)

• Any regrets? Just one: we never got to eat Pizza in the Cone.

Jessica + Pizza in the Cone