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Thursday, April 14, 2022

75th Festival de Cannes Line Up



Update May 11th, with only six (6) days to the opening day post has been updated with several news. Most interesting are the Honorary Palme d'or to Forest Whitaker, some extraordinary films in Cannes Classics section plus more movies in the Cinéma de la Plage section.

Post will be kept In Progress as official site hasn't upload any info regarding the many films in current edition; consequently, will become final when organizers release info and after list is check to confirm films, add and/or correct info.

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Tuesday, October 02, 2018

75th Venice Film Festival Award Winners


As promised and because it's easy to read in one single place all winners, here are the winners of the 2018 Biennale Cinema.

Watched awards live but ceremony was not much entertaining and with so many American movies in the festival I was not that much interested in learning winners (sigh) nor watching clips.

Nevertheless I'm glad that most awards went to interesting possibilities and well-known and much-admired-by-me directors like Jacques Audiard, Yorgos Lanthimos and Julian Schanbel.  Worth mentioning that Audiard's award relaxes me a bit as I'm still anxious about his first film in a language that is not his mother tongue as there are so-many disasters with so-few successes when extraordinary directors work on English-language productions. Sigh.

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Monday, March 16, 2015

2015 The Carrosse d'Or (Golden Coach)


The Carrosse d’Or Prize has been awarded since 2002 by the filmmakers of the Société des réalisateurs de films (SRF) to honor one of their own during Cannes Film Festival.  The Carrosse d'Or is a bronze statuette inspired by the figures of the Comedia dell'Arte and Jean Renoir's film of the same name – it was created by painter-sculptor Lili Legouvello.  The recipient is chosen from the international filmmaking community for the innovative qualities, courage and independent-mindedness of his or her work.

Since its creation in 2002, this prize has been given to Jacques Rozier, Clint Eastwood, Nanni Moretti, Sembene Ousmane, David Cronenberg, Alain Cavalier, Jim Jarmusch, Naomie Kawasé, Agnès Varda, Jafar Panahi, Nuri Bilge Ceylan, Jane Campion and Alain Resnais.

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Monday, January 12, 2015

72nd Golden Globe Awards Winners


When wrote about the nominations the first paragraph read as follows, which is exactly what I was thinking while watching the show last night.

"We tend to forget that the Golden Globe is an award given by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, meaning that is a film critics award and as such, there are NO Academy members that also are HFPA associates. Still, for merely entertainment purposes we like to forget the fact so we can pretend that this is the second TV show (after the number one: The Oscars) that we "love/hate" to watch every year."

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Saturday, May 24, 2014

67th Festival de Cannes Award Winners


In about six hours the red carpet will start followed by the awards ceremony, then the closing tribute to the western or better, the spaghetti western with Quentin Tarantino presenting For a Fistful of Dollars by Sergio Leone.

Nice closing ceremony with great award winners speeches that unfortunately chose to speak in English as the voice-over translation was loud, annoying and couldn't let you hear anything. Sigh. But imagine most will soon appear as clips all over the net. My predictions were as all Cannes predictions a futile exercise but can't deny that with one or two exceptions I approve who won the awards.

We have to realize that this year we have traditional winners but for those that wanted "fresh blood" we also have it and just for reference the youngest director in this edition, Xavier Dolan, tied with the oldest director in this edition, Jean-Luc Godard, but Alice Rohrwacher won the second top award.

So this is the end of the Cannes coverage and the end of the Festival.

À l'année prochaine!

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Monday, May 19, 2014

Day 6 at Cannes 2014


I thought it was only me having the impression that this year the festival had a weak in-competition selection but no, it is not only me who is "concern" with the quality of the films. Fest has been like a roller-coaster, one day is great with mood going up, next is not good with mood going down and you can feel everything from the brief writings of Twitter to the headlines of film reviews.

Of course there are some exceptions and according to me up-to-today, with four days to go, the only exceptions are Nuri Bilge Ceylan's film and perhaps the only Italian film in competition, both films fit what used to be the high festival standards. Still hope that there are a couple of more films with those standards.

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Sunday, May 18, 2014

Day 5 at Cannes 2014


A beautiful day in Cannes, hot, blue sky, and many people inside a movie theater watching movies. Perfect! I will admit that have done exactly that when I'm on vacations in the Caribbean -and love the air conditioning!

The Competition

The Homesman by Tommy Lee Jones

Jones fifth film has an amazing female cast, looks like a western but feels like a strong female driven drama, as far as I can tell from the multiple clips and trailer that have seen, there are some awesome visuals so I am getting more and more interested in watching. Let's see what happens with film reactions.

This is a film that if you wish you can watch the videos as are in English without the annoying voice-over translation. The best of watching the red carpet was seeing Melanie Laurent with all her female cast in Respire. Seems that everyone that is someone, ie the cast of all the movies that have screened in Cannes without a red carpet, are in today's red carpet allowing them to have their red carpet photograph moment, like right now, Mr. Depardiu, the FIFA president plus cast/crew of United Passions.  Announcer keeps reminding everyone that this is a Luc Besson production and in the press conference the American producer said that without Besson there was no The Homesman.

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Tuesday, May 13, 2014

67th Festival de Cannes Official Selection - Update 4


As this year information has been coming in drops let's update post with today's drop. The closing film is 1964 A Fistful of Dollars by Sergio Leone which will be screened after the awards ceremony on Saturday, May 24th and will be hosted by Quentin Tarantino.

Also in the same "drop" the announcement that the Cinéma de la Plage will screen the 2014 film by Frédéric Auburtin, United Passion. A film about football that will take place on Sunday May 18 with the presence of the director, Gérard Depardieu and Sepp Blatter, FIFA President. As a reminder, if you wish to learn all films in the Cinéma de la Plage section go here.

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Monday, May 05, 2014

2014 Cannes Check #7: The Canadians


A group with two directors, one was not born in Canada but grew up there and another is a true Canadian. Both have movies that I like and many more that I do not particularly like.

#7.1 Atom Egoyan

Born in Egypt to Armenian parents and raised in Western Canada, he began shooting short films at the University of Toronto until in 1984 his first feature film, Next of Kin traveled the festival circuit and became known to critics plus world audiences. Is in 1989 with Speaking Parts that he first comes to Cannes in a parallel section and in 1994 with Exotica is his first time in competition

The Captive is his tenth time in Cannes and sixth in competition; he already has won awards: in 1994 Exotica wins the FIPRESCI Award and in 1997 wins the same award again but also the Grand Prix with The Sweet Hereafter, a movie that truly impressed me and one of the few I really like, as for example his previous film, The Devil's Knot, was truly unbearable to watch, not for the story but for the Egoyan's storytelling style.

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Monday, March 10, 2014

2014 Cannes Film Festival Wish List


Know is very early but today was reading a magazine article with Cannes rumors and got really excited as the article included some movies by great directors and whether or not make it to the fest, it is absolutely necessary to have these movies recorded here for future viewing. Hope we all enjoy some if not ALL of the following films. Sorry for the French summaries posted when no English ones are available and me too lazy to translate (lol).

From French Directors

Bird People by Pascale Ferran with -the voice of- Mathieu Amalric plus Josh Charles, Anaïs Demoustier
An American arrives in Paris, checks into a hotel, turns off his cell phone and starts his life anew.

La Chambre Bleue by and with Mathiew Amalric
Un homme et une femme s’aiment en secret dans une chambre, se désirent, se veulent, se mordent même. Puis s’échangent quelques mots anodins après l’amour. Du moins l’homme le croit-il...
A man and woman who make love in secret in a bedroom. They desire and long for each other, even bite each other. Then they exchange a few banalities after making love. Or at least that’s what the man believes. Adaptation of Georges Simenon's novel with the same name (1964).

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Monday, March 04, 2013

2013 Canadian Screen Award Winners


Rebelle (War Witch) by Kim Nguyen (photo) was the big winner of the night as won 10 of the 12 categories for which it was nominated.

Winners are not yet at official site but from news these are the winners for some categories announced last night. If you wish to learn winners in all categories go here if you can't wait until the Academy publishes winners.

Winners are in *BLUE.

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Sunday, September 16, 2012

2012 Toronto International Film Festival Award Winners


We have to acknowledge that fest major and important service to the world cinema community is that has become one of the best sources to predict Oscar contenders and sometimes, winners as allows many American cinema journalists to actually see films and start the current award season media buzz. Obviously fest films clearly influences Critics' awards but we have to remember that not necessarily influences the other sectors awards, as for example and according to what I was reading, since 1999 only 3 films have won TIFF's top award and Oscar Best Picture.

I don't particularly follow the fest, but this year have to share that saw everyday developments thanks to the YouTube summary videos posted by the festival and tweets by some of the cinema journalists I follow. Festival is not that interesting for me as usually we already know most of the films in festival, thanks to following world festivals, plus fest site is not really that user friendly to understand and decode the many films that the fest screens. For example, this year there were 43 films produced or co produced by France which were really impossible to find as fest site only has film list by alphabet.

Anyway here are the award winners from news and as soon as fest site publishes list will post link.

People's Choice Awards

Feature Film: Silver Linings Playbook by David O. Russell
Runners-up: Argo by Ben Affleck and Zaytoun by Eran Riklis

Documentary: Artifact by Bartholomew Cubbins
Runners-up: Storm Surfers 3D by Christopher Nelius and Justin McMillan, and Revolution by Rob Stewart

Midnight Madness: Seven Psychopaths by Martin McDonagh
Runners-up: The Bay by Barry Levinson and John Dies at the End by Don Coscarelli

Canadian Films

Best Feature Film: Laurence Anyways by Xavier Dolan
Best First Feature Film: (tie)
Antiviral by Brandon Cronenberg
Blackbird by Jason Buxton
Best Short Film: Keep a Modest Head by Deco Dawson

FIPRESCI Awards
Special Presentations Section: Dans la maison (In the House) by François Ozon
Discovery Section: Call Girl by Mikael Marcimain

NETPAC Award: Kibô no kuni (The Land of Hope) by Sion Sono

Grolsch Film Works Discovery Award: Detroit Unleaded by Rola Nashef

If you're not familiar with the top award winner then can share that film star is none other than Jennifer Lawrence, another young actress that I follow her career closely and see everything with her (except scary movies). Also in movie Bradley Cooper, Robert De Niro and Julia Stiles; if you follow Movie On facebook page you saw the trailer a long while back.

Info is up at fest site if you wish to check their announcement go here where some pics have links to movie info.

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Sunday, May 27, 2012

65th Festival de Cannes Caméra d’Or Winner


2012 Camera d'Or winner is in *BLUE.

---///---
 5/14
The Caméra d’Or prize is awarded to the best First Film presented in the Official Selection (Competition, Out of Competition and Un Certain Regard), in Critics’ Week or Directors’ Fortnight. The Prize will be awarded by the president of the jury, Brazilian Carlos Diegues, at the Closing Ceremony on Sunday 27th May.

As you know I've been indicating in each Cannes post the first films, but this is the complete selection that includes first films in the Cannes Classics and Cinéma de la Plage programs.

These are the 25 films competing for the Camera d'Or.

Official Selection
Antiviral, Brandon Cronenberg, Canada and USA
*Beasts of the Southern Wild, Benh Zeitlin, USA
Gimme the Loot, Adam Leon, USA
La Playa, Juan Andrés Arango, Colombia
Me and Me Dad, Katrine Boorman, UK and Ireland
Red Tails, Anthony Hemingway, USA
The Sapphires, Wayne Blair, Australia
Trashed, Candida Brady, UK
Villegas, Gonzalo Tobal, Argentina, Netherlands, and France

Quinzaine des réalisateurs
Alyah, Elie Wajerman, France
돼지의 왕 Dae gi eui wang (aka Dwae-ji-ui wang) (The King of Pigs), Yeun Sang-Ho, South Korea
Infancia Clandestina (Clandestine Childhood), Benjamin Avila, Argentina, Spain and Brazil
La Sirga, William Vega, Colombia, France and Mexico
Rengaine (Hold Back), Rachid Djaidani, France
Room 237, Rodney Ascher, USA
Yek Khanévadéh-e Mohtaram ( A Respectable Family), Massoud Bakhshi, Iran

Semaine de la Critique
Aquí y Allá, Antonio Méndez Esparza, Spain, USA and Mexico
Au galop (In A Rush), Louis-Do de Lencquesaing, France
המשגיחים Les Voisins de Dieu (God's Neighbors), Meni Yaesh, Israel and France
Hors les murs (Beyond the Walls), David Lambert, Belgium, Canada and France
Peddlers, Vasan Bala, India
Los Salvajes (The Wild Ones), Alejandro Fadel, Argentina
Sofia’s Last Ambulance, Ilian Metev, Germany, Croatia and Bulgaria
Broken, Rufus Norris, UK
Augustine, Alice Winocour, France

Caméra d’or Jury
President: Carlos Diegues, director, Brazil
Gloria Satta, journalist, Italy
Rémy Chevrin, representing the French Association of Film Cinematographers, France
Hervé Icovic, on behalf of the Federation of Cinema, Audiovisual and Multimedia Industries, France
Michel Andrieu, representing the Society of Film Directors, France
Francis Gavelle, the French Union of Film Critics, France

To check list and info about each film go here.  and to read info about each jury member go here.

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Saturday, May 26, 2012

Day 10 at 2012 Cannes


Yesterday was not an easy day for me as was really hard to learn everything I learned about Reygadas film. I suppose you can say that I'm a director passionate fan and reading the negative press reactions was not pleasant at all. The great news is that after the Grand Theatre Lumiere premiere the film got a long standing ovation, suggesting that critics and audiences are on different sides of the like scale. I'm really glad and congratulate the director.

I do this intense daily fest coverage for very personal reasons as is a way to force me to learn something about every single film in the fest. I want to learn about films because these films is what I'll be watching during the next calendar year, the ones that make me very happy when I finally watch them and the ones in the top of my watching queue. It's an exercise that I have been doing for a long time, before I started this blog, when was relatively easy to read print materials and the few available net articles; then everything exponentially exploded when the fest opened their web site and every year they have been adding more and more great information.

But this year things got really crazy thanks to Twitter as critics' and almost anyone that is in Cannes or not had something to say about the fest. People have become really comfortable using Twitter and is great to be able to read critics' spontaneous reactions that later are rationalized (and many times changed) when they write the article. I simply love it as makes me feel that I'm following a process, a "creative" process, an experience that in my wildest dreams never imagined I will be able to have. Of course you need to establish a criteria -very fast- as not everything you see in Twitter is reliable.

I'm exhausted but very happy with my learning experience that, yes had a few drawbacks. This year it was impossible for me to learn about the many short films in the fest, but as soon as I recuperate my strength after next Sunday, I'll go back to learn something and maybe will share with you all.

I thank all my loyal readers from always as well as the new ones, including those that come just to grab a photo, and let's start today daily coverage. Cheers!

Main Competition

Cosmopolis by David Cronenberg

I do enjoy films by David Cronenberg, a director I follow no matter what movie he does as I have several films that I didn't liked and somehow disappointed me but didn't made stop watching his films. His last film before Cosmopolis, A Dangerous Method was a movie that I did not enjoyed much plus did not liked actors' performances. An introduction that I think was missing from what I said in my spontaneous expectations regarding this film that you can read here.

I delayed as much as possible watching movie videos as imagined that great Juliette Binoche was not going to be in them. I was right. Sigh. Photocall is noisy as expected so lower the volume and watch only to see the known actors and meet new -to me- actors. Oh! just realize that the two women are Sarah Gandon and Emily Hampshire the winners of the first Birks Canadian Diamond award.

TVFestival de Cannes has the group which also includes Cronenberg, Pattinson and Giamatti. Cronenberg dark prediction: film became a documentary. Expectation is confirmed, Pattinson is in every scene of the film. Oh gosh, Pattinson rambling answers are as bad as when he is performing (and I'm being very objective), Cronenberg comes to his help with clear precise answer. Gandon shines, can't remember her from A Dangerous Method. Giamatti is good as always, Cronenberg asked him not to read the book. Watch for entertainment purposes as you will learn very little from the movie.

Press conference has more people, two producers, novelist Don DeLillo and the screenplay writer. DeLillo has nothing to do with the script, so I ask, why is he in Cannes? Then Cronenberg says the book and the film are two different things. Oh gosh, gossip say that Stewart is awkward -awkwardness that I like, but Pattinson is worst and not in a positive way. Pattinson answers improve, become more interesting, with more info, good... but then his mind wanders, his mouth rambles and the awkwardness prevails. True, Gandon was also in Brandon Cronenberg film, she talks about similarities and differences. Like DeLillo comments about the white limousines in Manhattan. Suddenly got the impression that Pattinson hasn't grown from his Harry Potter times, odd. You will learn a few things about movie and I believe no matter what you hear or read, nothing will give you an accurate idea -or spoiler- to what you'll see in film. Suggest to watch video, mainly to "meet" Mr. DeLillo.

Got curious about novel and read a bit; learned that was received with mix reviews, most are negative. Hmm, maybe I'll read the novel, as yes story is interesting for me.

Red carpet HAS Juliette!!! OH!!! Great!! Stop showing Pattinson, go to Juliette please! Oh! Thank you!!! Every time I see her she looks younger, marvelous. Can't wait to see the photos and you know who has to be at the bottom of this post. He, he very emotional but sincere comments. Sigh. Watch to see the cast/crew plus very elegant Juliette Binoche; also young actresses look remarkably good.

We know that Cronenberg has a long history with Cannes, but lately his films have been more honored by being in the official selection than winning awards; so I don't know if this film will follow the trend or will win him another award and don't feel like speculating before watching the film.

If I believe Twitter pulse then probably will have to eat all my words regarding Pattinson as reliable critics' are saying he is good in here.  Nevertheless film seems to be on the lower side of acceptance, but then maybe critics' are just tired, as their reactions are different to premiere audiences reactions.

V Tumane (In the Fog) by Sergei Loznitsa

I have a love/hate relationship with this director as I would simply LOVE to see his films and I truly HATE the fact that I haven't seen any. His films are impossible to find near me and I'm still "dying" to be able to see 2010 My Joy with those breathtaking images that I know are also in his newest film.

I expect not to be able to watch film for years and to miss what seems like extraordinary storytelling style telling interesting stories that to my eyes and imagination seem to belong to Russia and other countries of the old USSR. This is the synopsis.

Western frontiers of the USSR, 1942. The region is under German occupation, and local partisans are fighting a brutal resistance campaign. A train is derailed not far from the village, where Sushenya, a rail worker, lives with his family. Innocent Sushenya is arrested with a group of saboteurs, but the German officer makes a decision not to hang him with the others and sets him free. Rumours of Sushenya’s treason spread quickly, and partisans Burov and Voitik arrive from the forest to get revenge.
As the partisans lead their victim through the forest, they are ambushed, and Sushenya finds himself one-to-one with his wounded enemy. Deep in an ancient forest, where there are neither friends nor enemies, and where the line between treason and heroism disappears, Sushenya is forced to make a moral choice under immoral circumstances.

Suggest to watch clips here and use the link to the director's site to explore his magnificent body of work.

Photocall introduces me to the cast, but not to the director that I knew from his 2010 visit to Cannes with My Joy. TVFestival de Cannes is interesting for answers from Loznitsa like, (paraphrasing) I've seen the film with eyes of a director... today will see film for the first time with regular spectator eyes... hope I understand it; which is perhaps the best answer I heard from all directors in fest and ever. Actors praise director. Suggest you watch it even when there is a question about the first scene that I tried not to listen.

Press conference also has the producer. Director continues to give great answers, this is not a war movie is a people movie. Oh! book writer story, interesting. Loznitsa does not want to comment about the political situation, which is highly appropriate in this venue and/or relating to the movie. I'm starting to understand the language... and directors great answers continue. German producer also gives sharp answers. Gosh, what a great answer to a journalist that wants to know what film is about. Grrr film has everything I like in films, very frustrating to know that won't see it fast. Suggest you watch this video and also the red carpet to meet more cast/crew.

Needless to say that film is Must Be Seen. Loznitsa history with Cannes is short but covers all his 2 feature films as he used to do only documentaries. If one director I wish will win the Palme is Loznitsa that really can use the Cannes exposure to promote his films.

Un Certain Regard

Gimme The Loot by Adam Leon

Film seems to me like good representative of American indie cinema, a cinema with many films that I don't like and a few that positively surprise me when I dare to watch them. Don't know if this film will surprise me or if I'll dare to watch, but somehow the graffiti element in the story calls my attention. The synopsis.

Malcolm and Sofia, two determined teens from the Bronx, are the ultimate graffiti-writers. When a rival gang buffs their latest masterpiece, they must hatch a plan to get revenge by tagging an iconic NYC landmark, but they need to raise $500 to pull off their spectacular scheme. Over the course of two whirlwind, sun-soaked summer days, Malcolm and Sofia travel on an epic urban adventure involving black market spray cans, illicit bodegas, stolen sneakers, a high wire heist, and a beautiful, rich girl’s necklace that is literally their key to becoming the biggest writers in the City.

Unfortunately film stills plus clips make me think that film will be one of the last in my watching queue.

11・25自決の日 三島由紀夫と若者たち 11.25 Jiketsu no Hi: Mishima Yukio to Wakamonotachi (11.25 The Day He Chose His Own Fate) by Kōji Wakamatsu

Clips and film stills allow me to know that visually I'll enjoy this film, but story absolutely calls my attention. The synopsis.

"If we value so highly the dignity of life, how can we not also value the dignity of death No death may be called futile." - Yukio Mishima

On November 25th 1970, a man committed ritual suicide inside the Tokyo headquarters of the Japanese Ministry of Defence, leaving behind a legacy of masterpieces and a controversy that echoes to this day. The man was Yukio Mishima, one of Japan’s greatest and most celebrated novelists. With four members of his own private army - the Tatenokai - Mishima had taken the commandant hostage and called upon the assembled military outside the Ministry to overthrow their society and restore the powers of the Emperor. When the soldiers mocked and jeered Mishima, he cut short his speech and withdrew to the commandant’s office where he committed seppuku - the samurai warrior's death - tearing open his belly with a ceremonial knife before being beheaded by one of his colleagues.
What was Mishima truly trying to express through his actions? And what did he witness during his final moments?

Will watch film the moment it comes near me.

Closing film: Renoir by Gilles Bourdos

I'm always concern with movies about painters as most of them have not pleased me with directors' vision on how to blend the bio part with the painter magnificent oeuvre. Can't deny that I'm concerned with this film but as always I'll be watching especially when is a biopic from one of my most admired painters. Not really familiar with director but film stills stimulate my visual imagination and just hope that when stills move the magic will still be there. The synopsis.

The Côte d’Azur. 1915. In his twilight years, Pierre-Auguste Renoir is tormented by the loss of his wife, the pains of arthritic old age and the terrible news that his son Jean has been wounded in action. But when a young girl miraculously enters his world, the old painter is filled with a new, wholly unexpected energy. Blazing with life, radiantly beautiful, Andrée will become his last model, and the wellspring of a remarkable rejuvenation.
Back at the family home to convalesce, Jean too falls under the spell of the new, redheaded star in the Renoir firmament. In their Mediterranean Eden - and in the face of his father's fierce opposition - he falls in love with this wild, untameable spirit... and as he does so, within weak-willed, battle-shaken Jean, a filmmaker begins to grow.

Film closes the section but winners will be known on Sunday, unless Twitter allows to learn them before.

Out of Competition

Hemingway & Gellhorn by Philip Kaufman

Great news that the director of films that I highly have enjoyed has a new movie, as his last one -that I didn't particularly liked- was released in 2004; but who can forget The Unbearable Lightness of Being or Henry & June? Not me as both are in my collection to visit and revisit.

Hemingway & Gellhorn is a TV movie, an HBO production which only makes me really happy as know will be watching very soon as film will premiere May 28th at 9:00pm EST on HBO. Great!

I'm curious about this movie because not only want to know why movie is in Cannes -believe is the second TV movie in recent times (or ever?) after Carlos- but also because Nicole Kidman stars in a role that she agreed yesterday at press conference, is the opposite to the one she played in The Paperboy. Then story seems interesting as stated in the synopsis.

Hemingway & Gellhorn recounts one of the great romances of the last century - the passionate love affair and tumultuous marriage of literary master Ernest Hemingway and the trailblazing war correspondent Martha Gellhorn - as it follows the adventurous writers through the Spanish Civil War and beyond. The combined magnetism of Hemingway and Gellhorn ushered them into social circles that included the elite of Hollywood, the aristocracy of the literary world and the First Family of the United States. As witnesses to history, they covered all the great conflicts of their time, but the war they couldn't survive was the war between themselves.

Film suggest to be more a Gellhorn than Heminway tale, which if true, could be a fascinating biopic about a remarkable and brilliant woman, a journalist/war correspondent that covered many important history events; like for example, the civil wars of Central America or the US invasion of Panama when she was 81-years-old.

I have not liked all Nicole Kidman movies but I'll watch everything with her in it, let's hope that this is one performance I like, the Cannes credentials make me think that film has to have something special. Then also hope that is not in the Official Selection only to honor Philip Kaufman work. I'll find what this movie is all about in a few days which will make it my first Cannes movie of the year. Great.

Suggest to watch Red Carpet video if just to watch Nicole Kidman, Clive Owen and Rodrigo Santoro. Nicole looks a bit tired but then she has worked hard for two days in a row.

Special Screening

Le Serment de Tobruok (The Oath of Tobruk) by Bernard-Henri Lévy and Marc Roussel

I'll be perhaps too honest about this movie that to me seems is included in the official selection more as a well-intended political statement than because of the quality of the movie. I say this because IF Cannes is willing to every year include a well-intended political statement -which I do approve-, THEN I might be wrong about what I feel and already said about Cannes absence of women directors.

IF Official Selection is partial to real awful political situations around the world, THEN the selection could be partial to women directors' and create a space to screen movies not because movie-quality but to improve women directors' exposure. Even if is only ONE movie, the void, the vacuum will be filled and the much needed women directors' exposure will start to be present in the fest.

With all this out of my system, let's talk about movie that has impressive credentials behind the making. What absolutely captures my attention is the possibility of watching "something" that has French philosopher Bernard-Henri Lévy vision, but know that film -or better said: intellectual/historic document- will be visually hard-to-watch and that will not come near me easily.

Cinéfondation

Short Films Program 4 with the last three shorts, Derrière-moi les oliviers (Behind Me Olive Trees) by Pascale Abou Jamra, Los Anfitriones (The Hosts) by Miguel Angel Moulet, and Tambylles by Michal Hogenauer

Winners will be announced today. If you wish to 'meet' this year directors' suggest to watch video here. Winners have been announced by Jean-Pierre Dardene, jury president, see post to learn them.

Cannes Classics

A Great Day in Harlem by Jean Bach

An interesting documentary dedicated to Art Kane's legendary photography with all the greatest names in jazz in the 1960s. Suggest to read fascinating story of that 1958 day and the background behind Bach's 1994 documentary. A brief summary is here.  This is the synopsis.

In August 1958, the young photographer Art Kane made his first photo report and cover for Esquire. He managed to mobilize the big names of jazz artists in Harlem for a photo shoot. 57 jazzmen and jazzwomen are for ever in this historical picture. The film A Great Day in Harlem is about this event.

As a huge jazz lover and photography fanatic this documentary joins two of my most intense passions, thus is a Must Be Seen for me. Documentary screening is preceded by two short films, All Colored Vaudeville Show by Roy Mack and Jammin' The Blues by Gjon Mili.

Cinéma de la Plage

Red Tails by Anthony Hemingway

Film was released last January but I'm not really interested in watching another version of the famous Tuskegee Airmen. But if you are interested, suggest to read article here.

Around the Selection

Masterclass with Philip Kaufman

Usually Cannes has only one Masterclass and is only this year that there were three. The usual lesson is about directing and this year is American director Philip Kaufman turn. If you wish to read more about Kaufman go here.  As we know his latest film, Heminway & Gellhorn is screened today out of competition.

Quinzaine

Closing Film: Camile Redouble (Camille Rewinds) by Noemi Lvovsky

The fifth film by 2003 prestigious Prix Louis-Delluc winner, 1999 Prix Jean-Vigo winner and her 1994 debut film was screened at the Berlinale; impressive directorial credentials for this also well-known actress that I last saw in Bonello's L'Apollonide - souvenirs de la maison close and I'm looking forward to watch in 17 Filles, plus much awaited by me Les Adieux Les Adieux à la reine.

With the above introduction you have no doubt that this film is Must Be Seen for me so even when is not necessary will tell you that I'm also attracted to film story and don't really mind if film is a comedy. The synopsis.

Camille was sixteen years old when she met Eric. They fell madly in love and had a daughter… 25 years later: Eric is leaving Camille for a younger woman. That’s New Year’s Eve, and Camille suddenly finds herself back in her past.
She is sixteen again and has returned to her parents, her girlfriends, her childhood… and Eric. Will she flee and try to change the course of their lives? Will she fall in love with him again, even though she knows how their story will end?

I know that synopsis will probably make you think about an American movie, Peggy Sue Got Married; but I can assure you -before watching- that if stories are similar, in the hands and head of a French director will be told very differently.

Awards ceremony

As we know the parallel section does not have awards to films in the selection; but besides some films competing for the Camera d'Or, section sponsors present awards. So tonight during the closing ceremony and before the screening of the closing film, we will learn the Art Cinema (CICAE) award, the SACD prize, the Europa Cinemas Label and the Illy Prize winners. If you wish to learn more about these awards go here.Winners are in the Quinzaine main post.

Semaine de la Critique

Today section screens all award winner films.

L'ACID

The last film in the section, Stalingrad Lovers by Fleur Albert with a synopsis that describes a style I like but doubt will watch because story essence. The synopsis.

A neorealist film noir that makes us discover the real life of crack dealers and users. From dealers chasing customers to addicts waiting for product, everyday life on the street is about surviving, or dying.

If you wish to learn more about film suggest you watch clip here.   Again films in this section never come near me as most does not get distribution. There are no awards in this section as surely the "award" for any film here is finding buyers; nevertheless tonight there is a closing event with a concert by Jean-François Pauvros, the musician that composed Stalingrad Lovers score.

There are some films that I skipped but will come back after Sunday to check them, but if you wish to learn about all films go here.

Cannes News

Today the Institut national de l'audiovisuel (INA) honored Nanni Moretti with a "Distinction Numérique", an award that gives him the totality of his broadcast and radio appearances in France and has more than 20 hours from almost 90 sources. INA's archive is one of my favorite reference sites that I suggest you to check, link is the first column.

The most fun Cannes award has been announced! This year Palme Dog goes to Banjo and Poppy, two Terriers in Ben Wheatley's Sightseers, screened at the Quinzaine.

Not-so-serious comments

Very wealthy people attended the amfAR's Cinema contre le sida gala as the foundation registered an historic record when 9 millions of Euros were pledged. The foundation was created by Elizabeth Taylor and yes there are two guests that pledged 850,000 Euros each to star in Karl Lagerfeld short but also an hour of tennis with Novak Djokovic got a significant pledge.

French press plays and takes their crystal ball to predict winners; le Figaro predicts Audiard will get the top award and Mungiu the grand prix; Nicole Kidman and Mads Mikkelesen with actors' awards. Actually predictions sound good to me.

Very FUN to read today's post by Steve Butterworth with the up-to-date results of his "Cannes Twitter Awards", the result of tracking Twitter news about Cannes for the last couple of weeks. Suggest you check post here.  Here are some highlights.

Which Films got the most BUZZ: In first place with 10,243 mentions, On The Road.
Which Film got the most LOVE: In first place with 94% positive sentiment, On The Road; but interesting is to find that overall positivity rating for Cannes has been very high averaging 84% positive sentiment.
People that got the most BUZZ: Not surprising for me (lol), with 14,894 mentions is Kristen Stewart. If you wonder, Pattinson is the fifth in the list.

Then the social media craze for celebrities is confirmed when out of 320K tweets, 67% are celebrity mentions versus 33% film mentions.

Photo of the Day

Impossible to find a free Julitte Binoche photo where she is alone, so here are some couples from tonight Cosmopolis premiere.

Showing posts sorted by date for query david cronenberg. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query david cronenberg. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Day 7 at 2012 Cannes


From today on HUGE Hollywood celebrities and some great actors will grace Cannes with their presence, so be prepared for absurd American media coverage... okay, not only American, worldwide media coverage. Sigh. In the competition two films that I know will watch.

Main Competition

The Angels' Share by Ken Loach

Highly enjoy Ken Loach films, but will I enjoy a comedy? His last comedy, Looking for Eric, was another of those films that I wasn't able to watch until the end. It's truly strange as British humor is dark enough to be my preferred humor of choice, so can't help but to expect me not liking another Ken Loach film. Sigh.

Here is the synopsis.
A bittersweet comedy about a Glasgow boy locked in a family feud who just wants a way out. When Robbie sneaks into the maternity hospital to visit his young girlfriend Leonie and hold his newborn son Luke for the first time, he is overwhelmed. He swears that Luke will not lead the same stricken life he has led.
On community service Robbie meets Rhino, Albert and Mo for whom, like him, work is little more than a distant dream. Little did Robbie imagine that turning to drink might change their lives - not cheap fortified wine, but the best malt whiskies in the world. What will it be for Robbie? More violence and vendettas or a new future with 'Uisge Beatha,' the 'Water of Life'? Only the angels know...

Photocall is full of people I'm not familiar with, except -of course- for Ken Loach. Oh! light is still too white, meaning not a sunny day in Cannes. Why organizers do not bring artificial warm lights? They should, video/photos will look better. Actors are so new to this kind of attention that can't help but take out their cameras and click them to record their own "crazy-yelling" photographers. Nice not-often seen naive spontaneity.

TVFestival de Cannes interview has director, scriptwriter and the main character (non)actor. Take a serious matter and use humor to put a smile in your face, but unemployment is a serious and universal tragedy, especially youth unemployment. Oh! the ruling class pov vrs ordinary people pov! Fantastic Loach answer. Like accent but need to really pay a lot of attention to follow what they say. Mr. Loach seems you are selling the film directly addressed to me and I'm listening. Suggest to watch interview if just for the excellent answers but also to let Loach seduce you into watching his film. Up-to-today this is THE best interview I have seen in this format.

Press conference with not many people sitting behind the table and more sitting in front. Too much whisky talk that's starting to make feel like drinking one, but has to be a Scotch -which is more a propos to movie story. Smart documented answers are here too. Some with glorious very-dark humor. Politics and movie facts mix most interestingly, but then is expected from Loach and Loach crew. Press is making now-actor talk about the Scarlett Johansson movie he was in, which changes the very intellectual/serious mood that I was highly appreciating. Civilized/decent life... things that have never been reality in so many countries; but yes I get it, if you had it and lost it, surely has to be more hard/evident than for those that never had it. Very intellectual press conference -with elements I really wish to see in films, let's hope this comedy has some of what I saw in press conference and since movie plays with humor, serious important matters have to be clearly shown for audiences to see or humor will wash the intentions away. At the end moderator felt the obligation to remind press that film is a comedy!

Very intellectual stimulating videos that made me think too much and wish I could really have a good scotch, straight no-ice, near me. Of course will watch film but let's hope that I don't have the same experience as I did with Loach's previous film.

Have to honest it wasn't until today that watched clips and one (the kilts and officers) made me laugh, so hopes seem could be reality. Then all these videos generating too much thinking about important world realities, fantastic exercise, but will I be able to see in film "something" remotely similar to those great comments? Don't know.

Loach Cannes history is a long one that started in 1970 and talks about three top awards including winning the Palme d'Or for great 2006 The Wind That Shakes the Barley. Is he going to get a second Palm? Maybe in the future when he goes back to great dramas, but a comedy winning Cannes top award, that's something that I have no idea if happened in the past but definitively can't imagine happening in the present.

Strongly suggest to read brief article about the long relationship between Ken Loach and Paul Laverty, Loach's screenwriter of choice; article is quite interesting and explains why Laverty gives such outstanding comments in today's' videos. Go here.

Killing Them Softly by Andrew Dominik

If you read my spontaneous reaction to Dominik film here then you know that from clips I related movie style to Ken Loach, so seems like today could be a double screening of a similar style, which is all right for me.

To be honest I was highly impressed by movie short clip I saw at the opening ceremony collage, so much that I changed my opinion about Brad Pitt possible performance and the movie in general. What I hoped in my spontaneous reactions became my expectations for this movie. Now I expect a good Brad Pitt performance (hopefully as good as in Moneyball) and definitively a story more interesting than Dominik's previous film.

Photocall is all about Brad celebrity status, so lower your volume as photographers are noisier than usual. But has very funny moment when Le Grand Soir's Gustave Kervern goes to kiss Pitt's hand -so ironically French funny that had to watch twice. Also remarkable is how Dominik (sans chewing gum) resembles Pitt -then maybe is only the long blond hair. Ah! Ray Liotta was also there as well as some other actors that I don't recognize.

TVFestival de Cannes interview talk about economic crisis in movie and the bigger picture: capitalism real crisis. Think I'm starting to learn what movie is all about and well, yes getting more interesting in watching. Liotta made me laugh, great. But then questions start to get silly, still Brad finds a way to answer smartly - which is different to what less-experienced cast/crew did in the other American movie. So is a dialogue-intense movie. Hoping that more great actors show in other videos. If you know story then you can skip this video without missing much.

Press conference starts again with Liotta being beaten instead of him beating others. Oh! so the association to real capitalism crisis is obvious and not suggested, wait is an American movie. Graphic slow-mo violence, awgh! Dominik: "I like violence ... but here violence is kind of embarrassing to characters, that's why they want to kill them softly". Like Brad answers, even when are not directly delivered. Sorry Dominik don't buy what you say about violence and fairy tales... violence has no real justification, but I know, you're talking about violence in movies ... still, let's hope that violence has a role in this movie and is not like in so many movies, placed for entertainment purposes. Screwball comedy? Hmm, is starting to sound like a movie by Tarantino. Australia is a very different country than America, there is some Australia-ness in (one) character and story. Gosh, if movie is stimulating this kind of questions and answers then I'm curious. Silly, silly questions and is amazing that Pitt answers them, very polite of him. Thank you for stopping the gossip questions. Miss Gandolfini, shame he is not there but wonder if he would be able to speak -as happened with Liotta and the other actors- as most questions were addressed and answered by Pitt and Dominik.

Quotes from press conference.

Andrew Dominik goes back to the subject of the film:
"I found the characters in George V. Higgin's Cogan’s Trade wonderful. This book depicts criminality. When I began to adapt it, I realised that it was also the tale of an economic crisis, that of capitalism. It's a never-ending story."

Dominik talks about the violence in his film:
"I love violence in films. How else can dramatic situations be depicted, if we don't use violence? Grimm's fairy tales are violent but their message is meant for children. This is a bit like what happens in Killing Them Softly. All the characters in the film know how guilty and awkward killing can make you feel, so they try to make violence painless. They want it to be as humane as possible for their victims."

Brad Pitt, on the characters in the film:
"We play characters who have clear-cut opinions in a divided country. I do not necessarily share the points of view shown in the film. I prefer playing a killer rather than a racist. Jackie Cogan tries to kill softly so that it is not too painful for his victim, who has to die no matter what happens. This last point is a reflection on business, which can be merciless."

If you wish to learn more about movie suggest you read this brief article.

Red carpet starts with camera following Brad Pitt signing autographs in sunny beautiful Cannes day (finally!), Dominik follows and learn that is Liotta's first time in Cannes. Oh! great long moment with Sandrine Bonaire while Pitt continues to sign autographs. Camera doesn't leave Pitt and yes is noisy, thousands of photographs plus fans. Pitt takes pictures too. No Gandolfini, no great Richard Jenkins, shame. And NO Angelina, lol! Wasn't going to comment, but yes I'm impress with Brad Pitt professionalism and experience, he is a celebrity, he is a star, he can be a good actor, but he knows he is working, shows respect for the business and "cares" about his fan base. Yes, suggest you watch video.

Okay I get it and got interested in watching movie, just hope is as interesting as how much my expectations got risen by what I learned from these videos and today's readings.

Ouch! quote from one review "Dominik peint une Amerique en pleine decomposition" But then British say, "smart, nasty, gripping.. with a political dimension, too" ... American "important" critics say: "movie not a hit" and one IMDb user says "this is a blah movie". Yes, I'm reading reviews and those are just some samples for you to get an idea. My net take-away is that film is coming quite close to the kind of films I like, but can't avoid hoping that my now high to moderate expectations are fulfilled. Then haven't yet found one review by a woman, so maybe I should start a petition to have women doing reviews fast (I'm kidding).

Will watch film with different eyes, different to what I usually watch what seems mainstream American movies. Film will be released on September 21st, 2012.

Does movie have Cannes top honors chances? Don't think so; but IF movie is as I imagine then maybe after all Cannes loves Tarantino and well, IF Pitt is as good as clip suggests then maybe could be consider for the actor top award.

Un Certain Regard

Le Grand Soir by Benoit Delépine and Gustave Kervern

Can't say that I have enjoyed their filmmaking style in Louise-Michel or Mammuth so my expectations are low for this social comedy that from clips and synopsis does not call my attention.

Two brothers who are complete opposites : one is a salesman in a chain store, while the other fancies himself the oldest punk-with-a-dog in Europe... But the twists of modern life will reunite them, putting them both on the street. Now confederates of the Punk Attitude, the two men put everything on the line to spark off a new revolution...

Making me laugh is not easy and I know that this comedy will not do it, thus will skip this film.

A Perdre La Raison (Loving Without Reason) by Joachim Lafosse

Very interested in watching fifth feature film by Belgian Lafosse with a surely very-hard-to-watch story that has to be superbly interpreted by fantastic cast that includes Tahar Rahim and Niels Astrup playing opposite to Emile Dequenne. The synopsis.

Murielle and Mounir love each other passionately. Ever since he was a boy, the young man has been living with Doctor Pinget who provides him with a comfortable life. When Mounir and Murielle decide to marry and have children, the couple’s dependence on the doctor becomes excessive. Murielle finds herself caught up in an unhealthy emotional climate that insidiously leads the family towards a tragic outcome.

Story is based on real events that occurred in Belgium when a mother killed her five children before attempting to commit suicide. Yes major story spoiler but I know that this film is not to be watched because story or destination, this is a film to watch because of the voyage.

Yes, this is a Must Be Seen film for me.

Special Screenings

A Musica Segundo Tom Jobin (The Music According to Tom Jobim) by Nelson Pereira Dos Santos

I have a deep love-affair with Antonio Carlos Jobim that will last until my last day in planet Earth, so watching another documentary about Tom is not essential but very-welcomed if is only to watch him and to listen to some of his fantastic music and songs. But trailer also promises that will be seeing great interpreters from the past and the present, so will watch even when yes I have in my music collection famous The Girl from Ipanema with many of those we see in trailer... and more. Read more about documentary here.

Journal de France by Claudine Nougaret and Raymond Depardon

Film follows two strands, the career of photographer-director Raymond Depardon and that of of his photographic journey for the Mission de France. I love photography and I'm more interested in the photographic value of film than anything else; but if I ever see the 300 images project presented at Bibliothèque Nationale in 2010 I'll be more than content. If you wish to learn more about this doc go here.

Trashed by Candida Brady

The second documentary by British journalist Candida Brady that records her travels all over the world to film impact human waste is having on the planet. Jeremy Irons narrates, cinematography is by Sean Bobbitt (Hunger and Shame), and music is by Vangelis. Great tech credentials to tell a very important subject matter that not many pay attention to, hope this and the other doc in fest will raise awareness and more important, personal/individual action. To read more about film go here.  Will watch.

Cannes Classics

Each year, fest selects a country and celebrates its films and customs. This year the honor falls to Brazil. To continue with the celebration today Cannes Classics screens Eduardo Coutinho's 1975 Cabra Marcado Para Morrer (Twenty Years Later). Suggest to read about the appalling yet interesting story in this documentary here.  None other than Walter Salles presented the movie.

Cinéma de la Plage

Today (again?) Le Farceur (The Joker) by Philippe de Broca, if it does not rain I assume.

Quinzaine

Fogo by Yulene Olaizola

Very curious about film that from clips appears to be my kind of film thanks to visuals, slow pace and telling a relevant story. The following is the synopsis.

The deterioration of a small community in Fogo Island is forcing its inhabitants to leave and resettle. Places once occupied by humans are now becoming part of the tundra landscape. In spite of a condemn future, there are some residents who decide to remain, holding on to their memories and grieving for the past, when life in Fogo was different.

Director thesis project and opera prima is the documentary Intimidades de Shakespeare y Victor Hugo which was highly honored in the fest circuit; second work Paraisos Artificiales was premiered at Rotterdam and awarded at Tribeca. Her third work, Fogo, takes her to Cannes and yes not only a very interesting director's trajectory but director has become one that I'll closely follow. Will watch film as soon as comes near me.

Opération Libertad by Nicolas Wadimoff

Obviously VERY interested in story told in rock guitarist turned filmmaker fifth feature; perhaps his visual style -according to what I've seen in clips- is not what I could hope for, but will watch. This is the synopsis.

In 1978, a small Swiss revolutionary group attacked a bank in a Zurich suburb. In order to prove the collusion between the Swiss financial system and dictatorships, they filmed the entire operation. In 2011, the videotapes of Operation Libertad reappeared…

I know film story is fiction, but this faux documentary story essence still seems an interesting exploration/vision on a subject matter that is obliquely (or directly?) related to Swiss context -the big banks secrecy, collusion between financial system and dictatorships-. Then director tells about how he was involved with radical groups around the 80's plus his film Temps Présent tells about the Swiss who had known Carlos. Need to learn no more, will watch movie.

Gangs of Wasseypur by Anurag Kashyap

The five hours twenty minute epic tale of a story of vengeance between two families that spans three generations stimulates my imagination but wonder if I will like movie that surely has an Indian cinema "border" style (near art but still Bollywood) that I haven't enjoyed many times. The synopsis.

Wasseypur, India. The story of vengeance between two families that spans three generations. Shahid Khan loots British trains and rules over the Ramadhir Sing clan. He becomes an outcast and must work in Ramadhir Singh's coal mines. Shahid's son, the philandering Sardar Khan, vows to restore his father's honor, becoming the most feared man in Waasseypur. It is Fazal Khan, the weed-addicted grandson, who wakes up to the vengeance his family has inherited.

I'll give movie a try when comes near me.

Semaine de la Critique

Aquí y Allá by Antonio Méndez Esparza

Debut feature film by Spain born director that has lived in New York and Mexico with a story that I expected more from a Mexican director than from a Columbia University graduate. Nevertheless story and storytelling style could be interesting, my only concern is wondering if suggested melodrama is handled adequately (realistic yet poetic), like many young-generation Mexican directors do. The long synopsis.

Aquí
Pedro returns home to a small mountain village in Guerrero, Mexico after years of working in the US. He finds his daughters older, and more distant than he imagined. His wife still has the same smile. Having saved some earnings from two trips to the US, he hopes to now finally make a better life with his family, and even to pursue his dreams on the side by starting a band: Copa Kings. He cherishes the everyday moments with his family.
Allá
The villagers think this year’s crop will be bountiful. There is also good work in a growing city an hour away. But the locals are wise to a life of insecurity, and their thoughts are often of family members or opportunities far away, north of the border. While working in the fields, Pedro meets and begins to mentor a teenager who dreams of the US. That place somehow always feels very present, practically knocking at the door.
Aquí y Allá is a story about hope, and the memories and loss of what we leave behind.

Will watch if ever comes near me and probably is good that I have low expectations so there are chances that movie will surprise me. Not many movies in this parallel section surprise me but last year winner was an unexpected big surprise, could this film be like Las Acacias? Let's hope it is.

L'ACID

Today a Sharon Bar-Ziv's Room 514, a film from Israel that from synopsis: A confrontation between Anna, an investigator from the Israeli army and an outstanding commander- seems to be a very interesting woman-centered powerful story.

As with almost all films in this section, information is truly scarce (have done google searches and for some, search gave a blank page!) but if I believe the opinion written at the site, then I think that this film by Sharon Bar-Ziv is one that I have to see for the story and Anna the lead character that believes "Israel is a free country" belief that maybe has an answer according to what reviewer comments: "No, Anna. The World is at war." Yes I know, might be a bit confusing what I wrote but from all the rambling my conclusion is that will watch film if ever comes near me.

Cannes News

There are not may news today as probably the market side of the fest is starting to fade away.

Buyers had an early screening of Daniels' The Paperboy and seems Nicole Kidman performance was highly praised, not so much the movie; Daniels next project is The Butler which has Oprah Winfrey, Jane Fonda ad Forrest Whitaker attached to star. Strange cast choice for American presidents: Matthew McConaughey as JFK, John Cusack as Nixon, and Alan Rickman as Reagan.

Tim Roth will go back to his more traditional roles in Jennifer Lynch's A Fall From Grace.

Natalie Portman to star in a western Jane Got a Gun by Lynne Ramsay. Great news, isn't?

Press have already seen Holy Motors by Carax and twitter get wild with crazy good comments; we'll see what happens tomorrow.

Not-so-serious Comments

Prada (??!!) reveal Roman Polanski (very) short film, A Therapy, starring Helena Bonham Carter and Sir Ben Kingsley, so no Lagerfeld short film this year and then Prada presents Polanski? Check preview at Movie On facebook page but be ready to see Prada coat and shoes.

Simply put, LOVE to read Screen magazine daily. Yudu is a great platform that I'm starting to think I should use it... already subscribed but haven't figure out what should I do there. Maybe an Art Magazine.

Today best headline: "Les mafieux d'Andrew Dominik e les anges de Ken Koach" (between gangsters and angels) that's exactly how I felt today while thinking about both movies.

After one week and 14 films in main competition screened, French press favorite is still Jacques Audiard film, close by Haneke film. There are no changes in Screen magazine, Mungiu and Haneke are still the favorites.

Just learned a Cannes milestone, never before there was a father and a son with films in the Official Selection; so it is a FIRST for David and Brandon Cronenberg.

Gossip sites went wild today with news that Brad and Angelina have no wedding date. That's all they got from the press conference.

Many journalist from all over the world are complaining about the 2,500 euros fee to interview Brad Pitt; maybe that is one reason why Pitt suspended all interviews, except for one with Canal+. But the news are out and not all consider it a negative procedure, still has become another Cannes scandal.

Been seeing many Berenice Marlohe photos and is today that I realize who she is, the newest "Bond Girl" in Skyfall. Watched again trailer, but she is not there, funny isn't?

Haven't seen Pitt in red carpet but I'm reading about the paparazzi frenzy... On other news, today is not fun to look for photos as there are too many Pitt photos...

Oh there was a Festival Jury Deliberation Lunch, so they're are working after all ... just saying as most photos are from them partying.

In Cannes Jeremy Irons, Lee Daniels, Kim Kardashian (?!), Kanye West (lol), Adrien Brody.

Photo of the Day

From a while back, perhaps the nicest dress in the red carpet.

Showing posts sorted by date for query david cronenberg. Sort by relevance Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by date for query david cronenberg. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Day 4 at 2012 Cannes


Today's program is fantastic with great recent and older films.

Main Competition

După dealuri (Beyond the Hills) by Cristian Mungiu

Extremely excited that one of my favorite directors, the one that made learn a new language and introduced me to Romanian New Wave cinema, has a new film.

I expect an intense emotional experience and outstanding visuals, more great visuals than what we got from his masterpiece Palme d'Or winner 4 luni, 3 săptămâni şi 2 zile (4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days) as story allows him to create fantastic outdoor compositions, check impressive clip here. If you wish to learn more about my expectations go here.

Photocall introduces me to the cast and only if wish to meet them watch video. TV Festival de France interviewer says that's a "love story" oh, my hopes improve, even do I know that lesbian interest is absolutely non-essential for me to be excited about this movie, still it is a big plus. Interview -in general- confirms that my expectations are in this film, there are some little spoilers moments that I didn't mind learning, suggest to watch if you wish to learn more about movie.

Press conference allows me to learn that story is more about "intimate friendship" between two women, which definitively motivates me to stop thinking about this non-essential issue, great as this expectation was starting to annoy me. Answers about tech specs are very exciting... perhaps I should not watch more as I'm raising even more my expectations. They're starting to asks questions about "the meaning" and no, I don't want to learn anything about Mungiu's (or any other) story interpretation before watching film. Better stop watching but I was highly enjoying Mungiu's very concrete answers. Watch only if you do not mind spoilers.

Red carpet was during day time, so looks and feels informal, there is an interview with Mungiu that gives more spoilers (sigh). We can see the Dardenne brothers who are film co-producers. Upsets me that there are very few press photographers as this is a film that really deserves media exposure.

Have to admit that checked in Twitter reactions to this film. English press comments are divided, some say is good while others call it a disappointment; Romanian comments tend to be positive, French comments also are positive, while Spanish comments tend to follow English reactions. My net take away, if I consider these reactions, is that I will like this film that has to have more European style than Mungiu's first film, which to me is just excellent!

Think will share something I already know about the story told in this film which probably is generating some not-positive reactions. This film is inspired on a true story that happened in Romania and yes, includes an exorcism that was done in the real life story. So, no surprises -in this sense- for you and me when we watch film.

Obviously film is Must Be Seen for me.

Lawless by John Hillcoat

Trailer (here) and good cast excited me and gave me hopes to have a good entertainment escape moment, let see if what I'll be learning today change my expectations.

Watch photocall only to see the fantastic cast this movie has, great Jessica Chastain, Mia Wasikowska, Tom Hardy, Shia LaBeouf, and Guy Pearce. TV Festival de Cannes is dry as interviewers did not changed his usual style and this group told him he already answered whatever he was asking, which I think is true. Only exception is Jessica that tries harder to answer, lovely and Guy Pierce. Video is kind of entertaining but nothing else, so if you skip will not miss much.

Press conference starts quite animated and as expected -after interview- is entertaining with more silly/funny answers than serious ones. Director is about the only one that gives interesting answers. But then press questions are not that good. Hillcoat gives very interesting comments about the state-of-the-cinema business in America. Finally Jessica and Mia are talking, both give good answers. Yes is true, Jessica was last year with two films and again this year with two films, quite an accomplishment for a young actress, isn't? Impressive, Jessica and Mia intervention changed the press conference mood that turned more serious and interesting. Video is entertaining with some irrelevant moments and some serious moments; yes think I'll recommend seeing both for entertaining purposes as well as for learning interesting aspects about film.


Red carpet video is worth watching just to see how beautiful Mia and Jessica are. Have to admit that I'm kind of disappointed by the performance the male cast/crew gave in Cannes, perhaps is their first time in fest or maybe in real life they're arrogant, but they have to know that they're working and the many eyes that watch Cannes deserve their respect as is not only the media who are watching them.

After all I have seen my expectations did not changed a bit, still expecting more an entertaining escape moment; which makes me wonder why this film is in the selection. Well let's hope there is more than what I expect.

My Twitter exploration mostly takes me into English comments that approve film for being "gripping, bloody and characterful", but there are some with sarcastic comments like "doesn't deserve to be part of the competition... wait, producer is Harvey Weinstein" ... reliable critics' comments tend to be not positive "cocktail of violence and sentimentality", "macho-sentimental violence".

Un Certain Regard

Les Chevaux de Dieu (God's Horses) by Nabil Ayouch

First time in Cannes director has a film that seems to have quite impressive visuals (trailer) but surely story will not be that easy to watch as was inspired by the terrorist attacks on May 16, 2003 in Casablanca, Morocco. This is the film synopsis.

Yachine is 10 years old, he lives with his family in the slum of Sidi Moumen in Casablanca. His mother, Yemma, leads the family as best as she can. His father suffers from depression, one of his brothers is in the army, another is almost autistic and the third, Hamid, 13, is the boss of the local neighborhood and Yachine’s protector. When Hamid is sent to jail, Yachine takes up jobs after jobs, though empty, to get free from the doldrums of violence, misery and drugs. Released from prison, Hamid, now an Islamic fundamentalist, persuades Yachine and his pals to join their "brothers". The Imam, Abou Zoubeir, their spiritual leader, starts to direct their long-standing physical and mental preparation.
One day, he tells them they have been chosen to become martyrs.

Not my kind of movie mainly because story; but visuals and great visual compositions definitely call my attention. If comes near me and I find the right mood maybe I'll watch it.

Antiviral by Brandon Cronenberg

I imagine that being David Cronenberg's son is not easy, especially when son follows the father steps; consequently I'm trying to be fair and forget the connection. Is not until this moment that I'm able to watch a clip from this movie at Cannes site and definitively I'm impressed with Cronenberg's storytelling style but what tells me that this could be a "crazy" movie is the synopsis.

Syd March is an employee at a clinic that sells injections of live viruses harvested from sick celebrities to obsessed fans. Biological communion - for a price. Syd also supplies illegal samples of these viruses to piracy groups, smuggling them from the clinic in his own body. When he becomes infected with the disease that kills super sensation Hannah Geist, Syd becomes a target for collectors and rabid fans. He must unravel the mystery surrounding her death before he suffers the same fate.

Twitter tells very funny comments that tell approval like "Brandon Cronenberg definitively was not adopted"; but serious reviewers tend to not spontaneously give something about movie, "I'm still not sure" says one -which I don't really know how to interpret it as there are two possibilities: be careful what you write as is about Cronenberg son or is a film that stays with you and later will become clear. But in general seems there is film approval in English for those that stay the whole film as seems some left theater.

My expectations rotate around great visuals in a horror story that could be crazy/creepy. As some of you know I do not enjoy horror films, so am I going to skip this film? Are you kidding, there is no way I'll skip this film by David Cronenberg's son, have to see it even if I get repulsed by story.

Out of Competition

The Sapphires by Wayne Blair

I'm very curious about this film that trailer plus synopsis made me wish I had to learn about the real story and the play, which immediately I did. Afterwards my curiosity was risen even more.

Film is based on an award winning play with the same name written by Tony Briggs about a singing group of four Koori women who tour Vietnam during the war, a story that's inspired in the true story of Briggs mother and aunt. Briggs co wrote the movie screenplay which is directed by Wayne Blair, who was an actor in the play. The group, the play and how they did the movie are very fascinating stories, but Blair's movie seems destined to captivate world audiences as seems like a feelgood movie. Check the film synopsis.

1968 was the year the planet went haywire. All around the globe, there were riots and revolution in the streets. There were hard drugs, soft drugs, free love and psychedelic music. There was the shock of Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy’s assassinations. And dominating every other news story. There was Vietnam. For four gorgeous young women from a remote Aboriginal mission, 1968 was the year that changed their lives forever. Sisters Gail, Julie and Cynthia, together with their cousin Kay, are discovered by Dave, a down-on-his-luck Irish musician with attitude, a taste for Irish Whiskey and an ear for Soul Music. Dave steers the girls away from their Country & Western origins then flies them to the war-zones of South Vietnam, where they sing Soul Classics for the American Marines. On tour in the Mekong Delta, the girls sing up a storm, dodge bullets. And fall in love.

I strongly suggest you read this Cannes site article as briefly tells about movie historical context. Yes this is women-centered story about what Australia was like in 1968 and which Blair sees as a way of paying homage to his Aborigine grand-mother, a passionate fan of soul music, who died in 1966 as a foreigner in her own country.

Think I like too much the story and I hope the movie is as good as the story and the award-winning play reviews are.

Red carpet video is available if you wish to meet/see the actors in this film, especially well-known Chris O'Dowd. Twitter very active Mister Thierry Fremaux after premiere was over twitted that audience gave an interminable applause.

Special Screenings

Today Dario Argento's Dracula 3D by the master of Giallo with his daughter Asia Argento and Rutger Hauer that no, I have no interest in watching as Giallo is not my cinema genre at all. But know that genre and director fans will like to watch this film.

Cannes Classics

Today Cannes Classics screens two movies that are really classics in my book.

The Ring by Alfred Hitchcock

"One of the first full-length movies directed by the master of suspense: a silent film where a love triangle tears itself apart against a background of boxing and the fairground" That is how the article at Cannes site starts, which I suggest you read it.

Master filmmaker Hitchcock deserves that this digitally restored by the British Film Institute is released in Blu ray so it can end up in my collection.

Lawrence of Arabia by David Lean

To celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the film Cannes is screening in restored print by Sony Pictures Entertainment one of the greatness film in cinema history and undoubtedly David Lean's masterpiece. Restored version was made from the Director's Cut in 1989 and includes 21 minutes of unreleased footage, bringing the total running time to 3 hours 42 minutes. Hope they release a Blu ray as this is a version I would simply LOVE to see even when I still remember the story and the absolutely impressive Peter O'Toole performance, but film also have other great performances by Anthony Quinn, Omar Sharif, Alec Guinnes, Jose Ferrer and more.


Around the Selection

Leçon de Musique Masterclass by Alexandre Desplat

Today in a packed room Alexandre Desplat gave his Masterclass about a personal history of film music. Interesting is to learn that Desplat has composed the music to all Jacques Audiard films. If you wish to learn more go here.

Cinéma de la Plage

Today Le Farceur (The Joker) by Philippe Broca a light French film that I saw a long-long time ago with very young Anouk Aimée and Jean-Pierre Cassel. Suggest you read more here and watch movie clip.

Quinzaine

La Sirga by William Vega

Trailer gives you the idea that film will be very visual with glorious slow pace but synopsis tells you that not all will be enjoyable in this film, check synopsis

Alicia is helpless. Fleeing the armed violence that has claimed the lives of those dearest to her, she ends up in La Sirga, at the guesthouse of Oscar, the only family she has left. Here, on the shores of a great lake in the Andes, she tries to rebuild her life. But this place, where she feels safe, is not spared by the fighting. The return of Freddy, the son that Oscar has been awaiting for years, his enigmatic intentions and his possible link with the warring factions bring La Sirga what Alicia fears the most.

Spontaneously this Colombian, French and Mexican production gave the impression that I was watching a Reygadas film but probably is only because trailer has a very good scenes edition. Check trailer here.

Film calls my attention and will watch when comes near me.

El Taaib by Merzak Allouache

After finally watching clips, film seems like a movie to watch because the story it tells and don't particularly find story interesting. This is the synopsis.

Algeria region of the high flatlands. As Islamist groups continue to spread terror, Rashid, a young Jihadist, leaves the mountains to return to his village. In keeping with the law « of pardon and national harmony », he has to surrender to the police and give up his weapon. He thus receives amnesty and becomes a « repenti ». But the law cannot erase his crimes and for Rachid it's the beginning of a one-way journey of violence, secrets and manipulation.

La Noche de Enfrente by Raoul Ruiz

As a special screenings Raoul Ruiz first posthumous oeuvre that I'm sure is screened to honor the prolific director. Can't say that I enjoyed all his films but this one was his going-back-to-Chile film which makes it more interesting for me. This is the film synopsis:Three ages of a man who sees death approach overlap. Raoul Ruiz's film testament.

What do I expect from film? Lots of fantasy presented as reality and lots of reality presented as fantasy, which is what director does in many of his films plus short stories in which film is inspired suggest magic could be also in film. Also expect an exploration of death, dying.

Not looking forward to watch film but know that eventually I will.

Semaine de la Critique

God's Neighbors by Meni Yaesh

Know too little about this film to have an opinion as only have seen a few scenes, some film stills and the following synopsis.

Rules must be followed. For the “supervisors” of a Bat Yam neighborhood in Israel, this means ensuring that women are dressed appropriately, that people respect Shabbat, or that Arabs from Jaffa don’t enter the neighborhood with music blaring from their cars. Avi, Kobi and Yaniv are young and know how to fight. Avi is their leader. The group’s dynamic is challenged when Avi threatens a young woman that doesn’t follow their rules, a woman he’s about to fall in love with…

Hard to believe that film is only a love story but until a trailer or more information are released is all that I know from Yaesh debut film competing for the Camera d'Or.

Augustine by Alice Winocour

Special screening of Winocour film that from clip here seems to be a very classic French film but being in La Semaine tells me that surely I'm wrong as this section usually screens very hard-to-watch and unusual films.

Still not sure why film is competing for the Queer Palm as synopsis does not suggest anything related to this award; this is the synopsis.

1885. In Paris, at Pitié Salpêtrière hospital, Professor Charcot is trying to understand an illness, hysteria, the causes of which as yet unknown. Augustine, a young woman just out of childhood, presents all the symptoms of the illness. It isn’t long before she attracts his attention. From object of study, Augustine soon becomes an object of desire, and the exclusive subject of his research, his obsession. Augustine does everything she can to seduce the Professor when he carries out experiments on her. Over the course of his examinations, their intimacy grows: the closer Charcot comes, the more he desires her; and the more he looks at her, the sicker she becomes

Film has well-known actors like Chiara Mastroianni and Vincent Landon; but it is singer Soko (aka Stéphanie Sokolinski - she also is in Despentes' Bye Bye Blondie ) that plays Agustine who gets my attention from clip.

Actually I really do not need to know more about this film that I know will watch as soon as comes near me. Expect a very French film like that ones that disturb me but are quite emotional cinematic experiences.

Short Films Program 1

Today the first short films program that screens the following shorts: Ce n’est pas un film de cow-boys by Benjamin Parent, Un dimanche matin by Damien Manivel, Hazara by Shay Levi, O Duplo by Juliana Rojas, and Yeguas y Cotorras de Natalia Garagiola.

L'ACID

Today Ini Avan by Asoka Handagama a Sri Lanka production that has the following synopsis: After the war in Sri Lanka, an ex-militant of the Tamil Tigers returns home in hope of starting a new « normal » life. Don't know much about this film and story does not call my attention, so I think I'll skip it.

Cannes News

Not many news today so will tell you about a Swedish project directed by Daniel Fridell that will bring to the big screen the biopic of Swedish porn king Berth Milton Jr.

Music Box Films picked up all North American rights to Sean Baker's Startlet with Dree Heminway (Mariel's daughter).

Other Activities

There were several parties last night and tonight there are many more, so is no surprise to find Cyndi Lauper, Ron Wood, Lyle Lovett, Boy George in Cannes.

The source of my in Cannes today is Getty Images that keep me informed about the celebrities but today I found not many photos of newcomers, so list is brief with Gerard Butler, Robert Rodriguez, and Michelle Rodriguez. Also Jane Fonda left Cannes.

Photos of the Day

Jessica Chastain and Mia Wasikowska today best photos from Lawless photocall and Red Carpet.

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