Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!!!
We have so many releases this week, it's a challenge to decide where to begin! Hmm.. well I'll just pick something I suppose! We have two Canadian releases this week, both of which were selected to Canada's Top Ten. Radiant City, a documentary on suburban sprawl as well as Congorama, a drama seeped in searching for family. I am thrilled to share that The Host opens this weekend, this South Korean horror film apparently just blew away box office records and seeing the preview I was really impressed (gotta love previews that are combination of music & visuals... you get the essence of the film with minimum content spoilage).
However, you may be looking for some giggles instead of scares in which case what could be more funny than Will Ferrell figure skating in Blades of Glory? Perhaps crime-drama's are more your thing, in which case The Lookout may be of interest. If you are looking for family fare, take yours out to Meet the Robinsons for some animated family fun.
This week, there really is something for everyone! Enjoy!
Festival Watch
Cinéfranco
10th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 23 - April 1, 2007 at The Royal, Toronto
http://www.cinefranco.com/
...............sneeky sneeky..................
The Hoax starring Richard Gere, Alfred Molina, Hope Davis and Marcia Gay Harden, directed by Lasse Hallström (Casanova, An Unfinished Life, Chocolat) has a sneak preview Saturday March 31st, 2007 at 7:00pm at Varsity, Silver City Yonge & Eglinton, Sheppard Grande and numerous other theatres.
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 30, 2007 Releases
Blades of Glory
Dir: Will Speck and Josh Gordon (Culture)
Cast: Will Ferrell, Jon Heder, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, Jenna Fischer
USA
Congorama
Writer/Dir: Philippe Falardeau (La Moitié Gauche du Frigo / The Left-Hand Side of the Fridge)
Cast: Olivier Gourmet, Paul Ahmarani, Jean-Pierre Cassel, Claudia Tagbo
Canada/Belgium/France
Limited Release
The Host / Gwoemul
Dir: Joon-ho Bong (Memories of Murder / Salinui chueok)
Cast: Kang-ho Song, Hie-bong Byeo, Hai-il Park, Du-na Bae, Ah-sung Ko
South Korea
The Lookout
Writer/Dir: Scott Frank - directorial debut
Cast: Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Jeff Daniels, Isla Fisher, Matthew Goode, Carla Gugino
USA
Meet the Robinsons
Dir: Steve Anderson - directorial film debut
Voices: Angela Bassett, Jordon Fry, Daniel Hansen, Wesley Singerman, Tom Selleck, Laurie Metcalf
USA
Radiant City
Dir: Gary Burns (A Problem with Fear) and Jim Brown - directoral debut
Documentary
Canada
Limited Release
Wednesday April 4, 2007 Releases
Are We Done Yet?
Dir: Steve Carr (Daddy Day Care, Dr. Dolittle 2)
Cast: Ice Cube, Nia Long, John C. McGinley
USA
Firehouse Dog
Dir: Todd Holland (The Wizard)
Cast: Bruce Greenwood, Josh Hutcherson, Bill Nunn
USA
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on April 4, 2007**
Friday, March 30, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
I Heart Huckabees
Director: David O. Russell (Three Kings, Spanking the Monkey)
Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Lily Tomlin, Jason Schwartzman, Isabelle Huppert, Naomi Watts, Mark Wahlberg
USA/Germany, 2004
Seen: October 21, 2006 on TMN
Reason to see: Recommended by Jamie
A duo of existential investigators. That's right - existential investigators. What a bizarre premise! Bizarre yet, amazing. I had no idea what to expect and whatever I could have expected it was something completely different. Quite and impressive cast, and a creative use of language. Great film, watch it to just go along for the ride.
Favourite Quote:
"Don't use that tone with me."
"I think you started that tone."
Shannon's Overall View:
I loved it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it, but be prepared to be outside of the box
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Dustin Hoffman, Lily Tomlin, Jason Schwartzman, Isabelle Huppert, Naomi Watts, Mark Wahlberg
USA/Germany, 2004
Seen: October 21, 2006 on TMN
Reason to see: Recommended by Jamie
A duo of existential investigators. That's right - existential investigators. What a bizarre premise! Bizarre yet, amazing. I had no idea what to expect and whatever I could have expected it was something completely different. Quite and impressive cast, and a creative use of language. Great film, watch it to just go along for the ride.
Favourite Quote:
"Don't use that tone with me."
"I think you started that tone."
Shannon's Overall View:
I loved it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it, but be prepared to be outside of the box
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Seven Brides for Seven Brothers
Director: Stanley Donen (Singing in the Rain, Funny Face, Blame it on Rio)
Cast: Howard Keel, Jane Powell, Russ Tamblyn, Jeff Richards, Julie Newmar
USA, 1954
Seen: January 8, 2007 on Turner Movie Classics
Reason to see: I'm a sucker for musicals
Oh my, what a fun movie. Although I don't think the premise sure wouldn't fly these days, it was still a joy to watch. Fun songs, charming characters and of course unlikely situations. I especially enjoyed the character Milly, I thought she was really inspirational - she didn't take any crap, but she also didn't give up on anyone and believed everyone could be a better person. I think that is what I got most out of this film.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I would watch it again
I'd recommend it, especially to fans of musicals
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Howard Keel, Jane Powell, Russ Tamblyn, Jeff Richards, Julie Newmar
USA, 1954
Seen: January 8, 2007 on Turner Movie Classics
Reason to see: I'm a sucker for musicals
Oh my, what a fun movie. Although I don't think the premise sure wouldn't fly these days, it was still a joy to watch. Fun songs, charming characters and of course unlikely situations. I especially enjoyed the character Milly, I thought she was really inspirational - she didn't take any crap, but she also didn't give up on anyone and believed everyone could be a better person. I think that is what I got most out of this film.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I would watch it again
I'd recommend it, especially to fans of musicals
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
The Lake House
Dir: Alejandro Agresti (Valentin, Buenos Aires Vice Versa)
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Christopher Plummer, Ebon Moss-Bachrach
USA, 2006
Seen: February 27, 2007
Reason to see: Looked charming, fan of both Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves
A quietly touching romantic film, this was a joy to watch. It is one that is best seen if you get all cozy and turn off your logical mind/continuity checker and just enjoy it. The acting is solid, the characters are believable and/or accessible and you can really feel their reactions be it strong or subtle you are really there with them. Don't fret about the 'whether it's possible or not', just believe what they tell ya.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again, in fact - I'd probably buy it
I'd recommend it to anyone who likes romantic films
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Keanu Reeves, Sandra Bullock, Christopher Plummer, Ebon Moss-Bachrach
USA, 2006
Seen: February 27, 2007
Reason to see: Looked charming, fan of both Sandra Bullock and Keanu Reeves
A quietly touching romantic film, this was a joy to watch. It is one that is best seen if you get all cozy and turn off your logical mind/continuity checker and just enjoy it. The acting is solid, the characters are believable and/or accessible and you can really feel their reactions be it strong or subtle you are really there with them. Don't fret about the 'whether it's possible or not', just believe what they tell ya.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again, in fact - I'd probably buy it
I'd recommend it to anyone who likes romantic films
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Nashville
Director: Robert Altman (Gosford Park, The Player, MASH)
Cast: Lily Tomlin, Henry Gibson, Karen Black, Ned Beatty, Keith Carradine, Shelley Duvall
USA, 1975
Seen: March 25, 2007 thanks to the Toronto Public Library
Reason to see: It's on my List of 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen, I wanted one film of every letter and I picked this for N; Robert Altman rocks and it was in my film textbook from college. In other words it was just 'one of those ones you think you should see'.
While watching this film I wasn't just sitting back and watching I kept thinking to myself - what is this about? What are they trying to say? Are they trying to say something? Who's that again? Oh.. the reporter I remember her, etc.
I am not saying it wasn't a good film, just that I didn't get it. I kept thinking to myself that they must be trying to make a statement but I had no idea what. Then I would be convinced that it was just stories about people, then I would flip back again, and again and then it felt like a music showcase.
The joy of it for me was Lily Tomlin. She was absolutely amazing in every scene she was in, and I was so much more interested and curious about the stories that would come back to her. For that in it of itself, it was worth it.
Great line: "Go get a Goo Goo, it's good!"
Shannon's Overall View:
I don't think I 'got' it
At 2hrs 59min, it's not likely I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it to country music fans or 70's drama fans
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Lily Tomlin, Henry Gibson, Karen Black, Ned Beatty, Keith Carradine, Shelley Duvall
USA, 1975
Seen: March 25, 2007 thanks to the Toronto Public Library
Reason to see: It's on my List of 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen, I wanted one film of every letter and I picked this for N; Robert Altman rocks and it was in my film textbook from college. In other words it was just 'one of those ones you think you should see'.
While watching this film I wasn't just sitting back and watching I kept thinking to myself - what is this about? What are they trying to say? Are they trying to say something? Who's that again? Oh.. the reporter I remember her, etc.
I am not saying it wasn't a good film, just that I didn't get it. I kept thinking to myself that they must be trying to make a statement but I had no idea what. Then I would be convinced that it was just stories about people, then I would flip back again, and again and then it felt like a music showcase.
The joy of it for me was Lily Tomlin. She was absolutely amazing in every scene she was in, and I was so much more interested and curious about the stories that would come back to her. For that in it of itself, it was worth it.
Great line: "Go get a Goo Goo, it's good!"
Shannon's Overall View:
I don't think I 'got' it
At 2hrs 59min, it's not likely I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it to country music fans or 70's drama fans
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Un Zoo la Nuit
Writer/Director: Jean-Claude Lauzon (Léolo)
Cast: Gilles Maheu, Roger Lebel, Corrado Mastropasqua, Lorne Brass, Germain Houde
Canada, 1987
Seen: March 25, 2007 thanks to the Toronto Public Library
Reason to see: It's on my List of 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen for winning 13 Genies.
Ok. BIG lesson learned while watching this film. My first note in my notebook says it all:
"Does not appear to have subtitles".
Doh.
I didn't find tons of resource to find this film so when I saw the library had it I snatched it right up! I didn't read the fine print. Considering that I was having trouble finding it I decided to watch it, in French without subtitles even though my French comprehension is a lot worse than I even realized! Technically I don't think this can be considered a review due to that but I'm committed to write about all the films I see.
What I could figure out: Mostly shady characters on both side of the law, a fair amount of violence and revenge, but also included quite touching relationship. Cinematography was quite stunning, and the use of lighting & colour (especially blue) was awesome.
Warnings: Violence, drug use, sexual violence
Shannon's Overall View:
I don't think it would be fair to say if I liked it or not
I'd watch it again, if subtitled
Again, hard to assess whom to recommend it to
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Gilles Maheu, Roger Lebel, Corrado Mastropasqua, Lorne Brass, Germain Houde
Canada, 1987
Seen: March 25, 2007 thanks to the Toronto Public Library
Reason to see: It's on my List of 101 Films I Can't Believe I Haven't Seen for winning 13 Genies.
Ok. BIG lesson learned while watching this film. My first note in my notebook says it all:
"Does not appear to have subtitles".
Doh.
I didn't find tons of resource to find this film so when I saw the library had it I snatched it right up! I didn't read the fine print. Considering that I was having trouble finding it I decided to watch it, in French without subtitles even though my French comprehension is a lot worse than I even realized! Technically I don't think this can be considered a review due to that but I'm committed to write about all the films I see.
What I could figure out: Mostly shady characters on both side of the law, a fair amount of violence and revenge, but also included quite touching relationship. Cinematography was quite stunning, and the use of lighting & colour (especially blue) was awesome.
Warnings: Violence, drug use, sexual violence
Shannon's Overall View:
I don't think it would be fair to say if I liked it or not
I'd watch it again, if subtitled
Again, hard to assess whom to recommend it to
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Monday, March 26, 2007
Solyaris / Солярис
Director: Andrei Tarkovsky (The Sacrifice / Offret, Nostalghia)
Cast: Donatas Banionis, Natalya Bondarchuk, Jüri Järvet, Anatoli Solonitsyn, Nikolai Grinko
Soviet Union, 1972
Seen: March 12, 2007 at Cinematheque Ontario with Jamie and Justin
Reason to see: A chance to see the original version of the Sci Fi film? Are you kidding me? Sign me up! Also, I am on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is the first film in week 12/52.
I was really excited to have the opportunity to see this film, of course than I remembered my reactions to other 70's sci fi film which would be in a word: scared!! (see my scariest films ever list here). Alas, this film didn't scare me and I was a little disappointed. It was pretty long, pretty slow and pretty quiet (I could hear people breathing). I also had already seen the American 2002 version of the film so I did have an idea of where the film could go, and I think ultimately that is what would have kept me from really enjoying seeing this version. There are quite a few interesting ideas in there, of which I'm not going to elaborate because I do thing they are worth experiencing as the story unfolds without knowing ahead of time.
I did enjoy the cinematography, the stylistic choices in terms of the look and feel of the environments as well as the acting, including Donatas Banionis but favourite was Natalya Bondarchuk as Hari
Shannon's Overall View:
I'm glad I saw it
I'd watch it again, probably if I could get the DVD
I'd recommend it to fans of 70's SciFi; as well as anyone who likes SciFi but whom hasn't seen the US version
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Donatas Banionis, Natalya Bondarchuk, Jüri Järvet, Anatoli Solonitsyn, Nikolai Grinko
Soviet Union, 1972
Seen: March 12, 2007 at Cinematheque Ontario with Jamie and Justin
Reason to see: A chance to see the original version of the Sci Fi film? Are you kidding me? Sign me up! Also, I am on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is the first film in week 12/52.
I was really excited to have the opportunity to see this film, of course than I remembered my reactions to other 70's sci fi film which would be in a word: scared!! (see my scariest films ever list here). Alas, this film didn't scare me and I was a little disappointed. It was pretty long, pretty slow and pretty quiet (I could hear people breathing). I also had already seen the American 2002 version of the film so I did have an idea of where the film could go, and I think ultimately that is what would have kept me from really enjoying seeing this version. There are quite a few interesting ideas in there, of which I'm not going to elaborate because I do thing they are worth experiencing as the story unfolds without knowing ahead of time.
I did enjoy the cinematography, the stylistic choices in terms of the look and feel of the environments as well as the acting, including Donatas Banionis but favourite was Natalya Bondarchuk as Hari
Shannon's Overall View:
I'm glad I saw it
I'd watch it again, probably if I could get the DVD
I'd recommend it to fans of 70's SciFi; as well as anyone who likes SciFi but whom hasn't seen the US version
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Fido
Dir: Andrew Currie (Mile Zero)
Cast: Billy Connolly, Carrie-Anne Moss, Dylan Baker, K'Sun Ray, Henry Czerny
Canada, 2007
Seen: March 21, 2007 at Paramount
Reason to see: It's Canadian! It's a Zombie film! I mean.. how could I pass that up? I am also on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 13/52.
This film was a little different than I was expected. It has its share of "Argghhhhhhhhhhhhh" & brains!!! & regular zombie moments but the setting is very different from what I would expect from a zombie flick, it's more of an idealist 50's neighbourhood where zombies are domesticated and somewhere in between house-helpers and pet's. The premise alone is amusing, and it really feels like some kind of crazy cult classic but in a new form. It's really a hilarious idea and I did enjoy watching it.
Now, the one thing that keeps tugging at the back of my mind (Braiiinnnnnnnnnnnnss!!!). Oops, sorry... got distracted there. Considering it's Canadian, I keep wondering if there was some kind of message they were trying to get across about fair treatment to all people (and zombies). Juries still out on that one, and even if they aren't trying to 'say' anything they got me to laugh, squirm and smile.
Warnings: Gore
Great movie moment: After my ticket was teared, I was prompted to see "Zombies in 5, at the end on the right"
Shout out: A big Thank-You! to the person who got off their butt and told the theatre staff that there was something wrong with the picture in the middle of the film so it was sorted quickly and swiftly. You rock!
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
12 minutes of preshow with 3 commercials and 4 previews: Hot Fuzz (looks hilarious), The Condemned, The Host (looking forward to this one!), Young Triffie
Cast: Billy Connolly, Carrie-Anne Moss, Dylan Baker, K'Sun Ray, Henry Czerny
Canada, 2007
Seen: March 21, 2007 at Paramount
Reason to see: It's Canadian! It's a Zombie film! I mean.. how could I pass that up? I am also on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 13/52.
This film was a little different than I was expected. It has its share of "Argghhhhhhhhhhhhh" & brains!!! & regular zombie moments but the setting is very different from what I would expect from a zombie flick, it's more of an idealist 50's neighbourhood where zombies are domesticated and somewhere in between house-helpers and pet's. The premise alone is amusing, and it really feels like some kind of crazy cult classic but in a new form. It's really a hilarious idea and I did enjoy watching it.
Now, the one thing that keeps tugging at the back of my mind (Braiiinnnnnnnnnnnnss!!!). Oops, sorry... got distracted there. Considering it's Canadian, I keep wondering if there was some kind of message they were trying to get across about fair treatment to all people (and zombies). Juries still out on that one, and even if they aren't trying to 'say' anything they got me to laugh, squirm and smile.
Warnings: Gore
Great movie moment: After my ticket was teared, I was prompted to see "Zombies in 5, at the end on the right"
Shout out: A big Thank-You! to the person who got off their butt and told the theatre staff that there was something wrong with the picture in the middle of the film so it was sorted quickly and swiftly. You rock!
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
12 minutes of preshow with 3 commercials and 4 previews: Hot Fuzz (looks hilarious), The Condemned, The Host (looking forward to this one!), Young Triffie
300
Dir: Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead)
Cast: Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, Dominic West, David Wenham, Vincent Regan
USA, 2007
Seen: March 16, 2007 at Paramount with Jamie
Reason to see: Epic Film, Gerard Butler as well as being on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is the second film of week 12/52.
I was thrilled that I enjoyed this film. Initially when the previews came out I thought it looked like a good epic film. My only hesitation was hearing about some of the violence as well as slight worry about gender issues* but it was fine (mostly due to the connection with folks who also worked on Sin City). The violence is very comic book like, and the gender stuff is fine - in fact, better than most and sometimes even impressive.
All in all it was a fun, epic action/adventure film with interesting characters and interesting choices. Fun. Lots of fighting, adept physicality and charm. It's like watching people who are good at what they do, it's impressive to see that kind of skill and confidence. Very enjoyable indeed.
*FYI - Shannon definition of 'gender issues' is 'sexist crap' see this review for more on that. Again, I re-iterate that I found 300 fine in this respect.
Shannon's Overall View:
I really enjoyed it
I'll watch it again, tempted to see it in the theatre again
I'd recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
12 minutes of preshow: 4 commercials and 4 previews (Pathfinder, The invisible, Next, Oceans 13)
Cast: Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, Dominic West, David Wenham, Vincent Regan
USA, 2007
Seen: March 16, 2007 at Paramount with Jamie
Reason to see: Epic Film, Gerard Butler as well as being on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is the second film of week 12/52.
I was thrilled that I enjoyed this film. Initially when the previews came out I thought it looked like a good epic film. My only hesitation was hearing about some of the violence as well as slight worry about gender issues* but it was fine (mostly due to the connection with folks who also worked on Sin City). The violence is very comic book like, and the gender stuff is fine - in fact, better than most and sometimes even impressive.
All in all it was a fun, epic action/adventure film with interesting characters and interesting choices. Fun. Lots of fighting, adept physicality and charm. It's like watching people who are good at what they do, it's impressive to see that kind of skill and confidence. Very enjoyable indeed.
*FYI - Shannon definition of 'gender issues' is 'sexist crap' see this review for more on that. Again, I re-iterate that I found 300 fine in this respect.
Shannon's Overall View:
I really enjoyed it
I'll watch it again, tempted to see it in the theatre again
I'd recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
12 minutes of preshow: 4 commercials and 4 previews (Pathfinder, The invisible, Next, Oceans 13)
Friday, March 23, 2007
Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 23, 2007!!!!
Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!!!
I am happy to share that BLUE, a short dance film by Elif Isikozlu will be showing this Sunday, March 25th, 3:30pm at the Carlton Cinemas a part of The Canadian Filmmakers Festival. BLUE was directed, choreographed and performed BLUE by Elif who is an abundantly talented woman who and I am thrilled to see the continued success of her film. Congratulations Elif!
I'm very excited with this weeks release of the Canadian film Sharkwater which is a documentary and a plea to save the shark. I know I'm going to see that one, even though I find sharks scary I find it an intriguing topic. If documentaries are your thing but perhaps sharks are not, we have a second documentary this week with the release of Air Guitar Nation. The is something odd about the idea of watching a film about people pretending to do something, but who knows - could be a cult classic in the making!
With the release of TMNT this week my curiosity got the best of me and I had to check when the first live action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, and alarmingly it was 17 years ago. Seventeen! I'm feeling old. I'm sure the green guys are still kicking butt and eating pizza, dude.
Festival Watch
The Canadian Filmmakers Festival
March 22 - 25, 2007
www.canfilmfest.ca
Cinéfranco
10th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 23 - April 1, 2007 at The Royal, Toronto
http://www.cinefranco.com/
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 23, 2007 Releases
Air Guitar Nation
Dir: Alexandra Lipsitz - directorial debut
Documentary on air guitar
USA
Limited Release
Amazing Grace
Dir: Michael Apted (Enough, The World is Not Enough, Thunderheart)
Cast: Ioan Gruffudd, Albert Finney, Rufus Sewell, Romola Garai
UK / USA
The Hills Have Eyes 2
Dir: Martin Weisz (Rohtenburg/Grimm Love)
Cast: Michael McMillian, Jessica Stroup, Daniella Alonso, Jacob Vargas
USA
The Last Mimzy
Dir: Bob Shaye (Book of Love)
Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil
USA
Pride
Dir: Sunu Gonera - directorial debut
Cast: Terrence Howard, Bernie Mac, Kimberly Elise, Tom Arnold
USA
Reign Over Me
Writer/Dir: Mike Binder (Man About Town, The Upside of Anger, Indian Summer)
Cast: Don Cheadle, Adam Sandler, Jada Pinkett Smith, Liv Tyler, Saffron Burrows, Donald Sutherland
USA
Sharkwater
Writer/Dir: Rob Stewart - directorial debut
Documentary on shark conservation
Canada
Shooter
Dir: Antoine Faqua (King Arthur, Training Day, Tears of the Sun)
Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Danny Glover, Kate Mara, Michael Peña, Elias Koteas
USA
TMNT
Writer/Dir: Kevin Munroe - directorial debut
Voices: Patrick Steward, Sarah Michelle Geller, Mitchell Whitfield, James Arnold Taylor, Mikey Kelley, Nolan North, Laurence Fishburne, Ziyi Zhang, Kevin Smith, Mako, Chris Evans
Hong Kong / USA
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 23, 2007**
I am happy to share that BLUE, a short dance film by Elif Isikozlu will be showing this Sunday, March 25th, 3:30pm at the Carlton Cinemas a part of The Canadian Filmmakers Festival. BLUE was directed, choreographed and performed BLUE by Elif who is an abundantly talented woman who and I am thrilled to see the continued success of her film. Congratulations Elif!
I'm very excited with this weeks release of the Canadian film Sharkwater which is a documentary and a plea to save the shark. I know I'm going to see that one, even though I find sharks scary I find it an intriguing topic. If documentaries are your thing but perhaps sharks are not, we have a second documentary this week with the release of Air Guitar Nation. The is something odd about the idea of watching a film about people pretending to do something, but who knows - could be a cult classic in the making!
With the release of TMNT this week my curiosity got the best of me and I had to check when the first live action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles movie, and alarmingly it was 17 years ago. Seventeen! I'm feeling old. I'm sure the green guys are still kicking butt and eating pizza, dude.
Festival Watch
The Canadian Filmmakers Festival
March 22 - 25, 2007
www.canfilmfest.ca
Cinéfranco
10th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 23 - April 1, 2007 at The Royal, Toronto
http://www.cinefranco.com/
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 23, 2007 Releases
Air Guitar Nation
Dir: Alexandra Lipsitz - directorial debut
Documentary on air guitar
USA
Limited Release
Amazing Grace
Dir: Michael Apted (Enough, The World is Not Enough, Thunderheart)
Cast: Ioan Gruffudd, Albert Finney, Rufus Sewell, Romola Garai
UK / USA
The Hills Have Eyes 2
Dir: Martin Weisz (Rohtenburg/Grimm Love)
Cast: Michael McMillian, Jessica Stroup, Daniella Alonso, Jacob Vargas
USA
The Last Mimzy
Dir: Bob Shaye (Book of Love)
Cast: Timothy Hutton, Joely Richardson, Rhiannon Leigh Wryn, Chris O'Neil
USA
Pride
Dir: Sunu Gonera - directorial debut
Cast: Terrence Howard, Bernie Mac, Kimberly Elise, Tom Arnold
USA
Reign Over Me
Writer/Dir: Mike Binder (Man About Town, The Upside of Anger, Indian Summer)
Cast: Don Cheadle, Adam Sandler, Jada Pinkett Smith, Liv Tyler, Saffron Burrows, Donald Sutherland
USA
Sharkwater
Writer/Dir: Rob Stewart - directorial debut
Documentary on shark conservation
Canada
Shooter
Dir: Antoine Faqua (King Arthur, Training Day, Tears of the Sun)
Cast: Mark Wahlberg, Danny Glover, Kate Mara, Michael Peña, Elias Koteas
USA
TMNT
Writer/Dir: Kevin Munroe - directorial debut
Voices: Patrick Steward, Sarah Michelle Geller, Mitchell Whitfield, James Arnold Taylor, Mikey Kelley, Nolan North, Laurence Fishburne, Ziyi Zhang, Kevin Smith, Mako, Chris Evans
Hong Kong / USA
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 23, 2007**
Friday, March 16, 2007
Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 16, 2007!!!!
Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!!!
One of this week's releases, Premonition, I've found to be the single most asked about film so far this year, with 300 close behind. That being said, Ken Loach's The Wind That Shakes the Barley is definitely the most hyped film of this week and it had huge buzz at the film fest last September. I'm a little surprized it's only playing in 2 theatres, but we shall see how it progresses. This week we also have Fido, a Canadian zombie movie (I don't think I've ever typed that out before!). Continuing with scary themes we have Dead Silence and I Think I Love My Wife. Ok, I'm taking some liberties saying Chris Rock's new film is scary but from the title and the preview I think we could argue that it might qualify. Our last film of the week is the German cross culture romance/drama The White Masai.
Festival Watch
Toronto International French Short Film Festival
March 15-17, 2007 at the Drake Hotel
http://www.lesnomades.org/
Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour
March 16-18, 2007 at the Bloor Cinema
http://www.banffcentre.ca/mountainculture/tour/
Toronto Singapore Film Festival
March 17, 2007 at Innis Town Hall
http://www.tsff.org/
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 16, 2007 Releases
Dead Silence
Dir: James Wan (Saw)
Cast: Donnie Wahlberg, Ryan Kwanten, Amber Valletta, Michael Fairman
USA
Fido
Dir: Andrew Currie (Mile Zero)
Cast: Billy Connolly, Carrie-Anne Moss, Dylan Baker, K'Sun Ray, Henry Czerny
Canada
I Think I Love My Wife
Dir: Chris Rock (Head of State)
Cast: Chris Rock, Kerry Washington, Gina Torres, Steve Buscemi
USA
Premonition
Dir: Mennan Yapo (Lautlos / Soundless)
Cast: Sandra Bullock, Julian McMahon, Shyanne McClure, Courtney Taylor Burness
USA
The White Masai / Weisse Massai, Die
Dir: Hermine Huntgeburth (Bibi Blocksberg, The Trio)
Cast: Nina Hoss, Jacky Ido, Katja Flint, Antonio Prester, Janek Rieke
Germany
Limited Release
The Wind that Shakes the Barley
Dir: Ken Loach (Sweet Sixteen, Bread and Roses)
Cast: Cillian Murphy, Padraic Delaney, Laim Cunningham, Gerard Kearney, William Ruane
Germany/Italy/Spain/France/Ireland/UK
Limited Release
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 16, 2007**
One of this week's releases, Premonition, I've found to be the single most asked about film so far this year, with 300 close behind. That being said, Ken Loach's The Wind That Shakes the Barley is definitely the most hyped film of this week and it had huge buzz at the film fest last September. I'm a little surprized it's only playing in 2 theatres, but we shall see how it progresses. This week we also have Fido, a Canadian zombie movie (I don't think I've ever typed that out before!). Continuing with scary themes we have Dead Silence and I Think I Love My Wife. Ok, I'm taking some liberties saying Chris Rock's new film is scary but from the title and the preview I think we could argue that it might qualify. Our last film of the week is the German cross culture romance/drama The White Masai.
Festival Watch
Toronto International French Short Film Festival
March 15-17, 2007 at the Drake Hotel
http://www.lesnomades.org/
Banff Mountain Film Festival World Tour
March 16-18, 2007 at the Bloor Cinema
http://www.banffcentre.ca/mountainculture/tour/
Toronto Singapore Film Festival
March 17, 2007 at Innis Town Hall
http://www.tsff.org/
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 16, 2007 Releases
Dead Silence
Dir: James Wan (Saw)
Cast: Donnie Wahlberg, Ryan Kwanten, Amber Valletta, Michael Fairman
USA
Fido
Dir: Andrew Currie (Mile Zero)
Cast: Billy Connolly, Carrie-Anne Moss, Dylan Baker, K'Sun Ray, Henry Czerny
Canada
I Think I Love My Wife
Dir: Chris Rock (Head of State)
Cast: Chris Rock, Kerry Washington, Gina Torres, Steve Buscemi
USA
Premonition
Dir: Mennan Yapo (Lautlos / Soundless)
Cast: Sandra Bullock, Julian McMahon, Shyanne McClure, Courtney Taylor Burness
USA
The White Masai / Weisse Massai, Die
Dir: Hermine Huntgeburth (Bibi Blocksberg, The Trio)
Cast: Nina Hoss, Jacky Ido, Katja Flint, Antonio Prester, Janek Rieke
Germany
Limited Release
The Wind that Shakes the Barley
Dir: Ken Loach (Sweet Sixteen, Bread and Roses)
Cast: Cillian Murphy, Padraic Delaney, Laim Cunningham, Gerard Kearney, William Ruane
Germany/Italy/Spain/France/Ireland/UK
Limited Release
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 16, 2007**
Sunday, March 11, 2007
John & Jane
Director: Ashim Ahluwalia (Thin Air)
Documentary
2005, India
Seen: March 8, 2007 at Cinematheque Ontario with Jamie and Justin
Reason to see: I initially wanted to see this film during the 2005 Toronto International Film Festival but I don't think the timing worked out. Also, I am on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 11/52.
This documentary is based on the life and experience of employees in call centres in India who sell/provide customer service to American customers. I have a bit of a strange reaction to this film. There was a real undertone of a kind of hopelessness. A lot of the workers don't want to be there, and certainly most of the people they contact have no interest in whatever they are selling. I found for the most part I wanted to know more. Who *does* benefit from this situation? Do people have other options than working under these conditions? What was their salary like? What would that compare to? I'm not sure if these were questions other people wanted to know, but I sure did. I think it was successful as showing portraits of the people involved in the situation but I wanted to know more about the situation as a whole.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it, but not as much as I thought
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
One-of wierdness about the screening: There was no previews, but before the film was shown it was introduced as it was part of the Human Rights Watch International Film Festival. In part, the introduction was interesting as it provided some context, however 2 of the 3people introducing talked about key parts of the film and/or the moments that they touched them the most. I just don't understand this. We've bought our tickets, we are sitting in the seats of the theatre, why are you telling me something that will be revealed to me in the format in which the director intended it to be seen in the next 2 hrs? Maybe if there was a discussion afterwards but I didn't want to hear that kind of thing before the film.
Documentary
2005, India
Seen: March 8, 2007 at Cinematheque Ontario with Jamie and Justin
Reason to see: I initially wanted to see this film during the 2005 Toronto International Film Festival but I don't think the timing worked out. Also, I am on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 11/52.
This documentary is based on the life and experience of employees in call centres in India who sell/provide customer service to American customers. I have a bit of a strange reaction to this film. There was a real undertone of a kind of hopelessness. A lot of the workers don't want to be there, and certainly most of the people they contact have no interest in whatever they are selling. I found for the most part I wanted to know more. Who *does* benefit from this situation? Do people have other options than working under these conditions? What was their salary like? What would that compare to? I'm not sure if these were questions other people wanted to know, but I sure did. I think it was successful as showing portraits of the people involved in the situation but I wanted to know more about the situation as a whole.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it, but not as much as I thought
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
One-of wierdness about the screening: There was no previews, but before the film was shown it was introduced as it was part of the Human Rights Watch International Film Festival. In part, the introduction was interesting as it provided some context, however 2 of the 3people introducing talked about key parts of the film and/or the moments that they touched them the most. I just don't understand this. We've bought our tickets, we are sitting in the seats of the theatre, why are you telling me something that will be revealed to me in the format in which the director intended it to be seen in the next 2 hrs? Maybe if there was a discussion afterwards but I didn't want to hear that kind of thing before the film.
La Vie secrète des gens heureux / The Secret Life of Happy People
Director: Stéphane Lapointe - feature film directorial debut
Cast: Gilbert Sicotte, Marie Gignac, Catherine de Léan, Marc Paquet
Canada, 2006
Seen: February 19, 2007 Academy screening at the NFB
Reason to see: 4 Genie nominations (Direction, Actress in a Supporting Role - Marie Gignac, Original Score, Original Screenplay), won the Claude Jutra award, and attempting #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 9/52.
It was so lovely to get an opportunity to see this film, which although nominated for multiple Genie's, was not released in Toronto. Revolving around a 'happy' couple and their slightly awkward son, this film blends the reality in which we live and what it takes to get it to where it is. Great acting, interesting premise and delightfully Canadian made this film enjoyable to watch.
There were some slight things I found a little unbelieveable, but not enough to really bother me.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Gilbert Sicotte, Marie Gignac, Catherine de Léan, Marc Paquet
Canada, 2006
Seen: February 19, 2007 Academy screening at the NFB
Reason to see: 4 Genie nominations (Direction, Actress in a Supporting Role - Marie Gignac, Original Score, Original Screenplay), won the Claude Jutra award, and attempting #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 9/52.
It was so lovely to get an opportunity to see this film, which although nominated for multiple Genie's, was not released in Toronto. Revolving around a 'happy' couple and their slightly awkward son, this film blends the reality in which we live and what it takes to get it to where it is. Great acting, interesting premise and delightfully Canadian made this film enjoyable to watch.
There were some slight things I found a little unbelieveable, but not enough to really bother me.
Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'd watch it again
I'd recommend it
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Letters from Iwo Jima
Dir: Clint Eastwood (Flags of our Fathers, Mystic River, Pale Rider)
Cast: Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya, Tsuyoshi Ihara, Ryo Kase, Shido Makamura
USA, 2007
Seen: January 24, 2007 at the Varsity
Reason to see: Oscar nominated for 4 Oscars: Director, Picture, Sound Editing (won) and Original Screenplay. As well, I'm working away on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is my first film for week 5/52.
In general, I don't watch war movies. I usually find them too upsetting. I'm pretty much a 'why can't we all just get along' kinda person so I don't why anyone would want to harm anyone else. That being said I braved seeing this on account of the Oscar nod's as well as the direction of Clint Eastwood and involvement of Ken Watanabe.
After seeing it, I'm still not certain if I could say I liked it but more interesting I am not sure what the point they were trying to get across. I could think of two but one seemed overly simplistic and the other was a little unbelievable and although I could see both I didn't feel either. Maybe it doesn't have a message, maybe the goal was a historical representation and illustration of a culture - it that was the case then I think it was a success. I did feel that I learned something in terms of being exposed to some new ideas/concepts.
Although I found the message a little elusive, the story and cinematography were both captivating and the performances were excellent, especially Ken Watanabe, Shido Makamura and Kazunari Ninomiya.
Shannon's Overall View:
I'm not certain how I feel about this film
I might watch it 1 more time
I'd recommend it to those whom it likely already appeals to, people interest in history and/or the human condition
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
1 commercial (2min), 2 previews: Astronaut Farmer, Oceans 13 (5min)
Cast: Ken Watanabe, Kazunari Ninomiya, Tsuyoshi Ihara, Ryo Kase, Shido Makamura
USA, 2007
Seen: January 24, 2007 at the Varsity
Reason to see: Oscar nominated for 4 Oscars: Director, Picture, Sound Editing (won) and Original Screenplay. As well, I'm working away on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is my first film for week 5/52.
In general, I don't watch war movies. I usually find them too upsetting. I'm pretty much a 'why can't we all just get along' kinda person so I don't why anyone would want to harm anyone else. That being said I braved seeing this on account of the Oscar nod's as well as the direction of Clint Eastwood and involvement of Ken Watanabe.
After seeing it, I'm still not certain if I could say I liked it but more interesting I am not sure what the point they were trying to get across. I could think of two but one seemed overly simplistic and the other was a little unbelievable and although I could see both I didn't feel either. Maybe it doesn't have a message, maybe the goal was a historical representation and illustration of a culture - it that was the case then I think it was a success. I did feel that I learned something in terms of being exposed to some new ideas/concepts.
Although I found the message a little elusive, the story and cinematography were both captivating and the performances were excellent, especially Ken Watanabe, Shido Makamura and Kazunari Ninomiya.
Shannon's Overall View:
I'm not certain how I feel about this film
I might watch it 1 more time
I'd recommend it to those whom it likely already appeals to, people interest in history and/or the human condition
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
1 commercial (2min), 2 previews: Astronaut Farmer, Oceans 13 (5min)
The Good Shepherd
Dir: Robert De Niro (A Bronx Tale)
Cast: Matt Damon, Angelina Jolie, Alec Baldwin, Billy Crudup, Michael Gambon, William Hurt, Timothy Hutton
USA, 2006
Seen: January 25, 2007 at the Carlton
Reason to see: Oscar nominated for art direction, also working on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is my second film for week 5/52.
This film wasn't for me. It's an interesting premise (beginning formation of the CIA), and there were a lot of good actors but it just didn't pull me in. Some of the notes I took included: What is it even about? I didn't believe...., How would you know that? slow....., etc. I felt like the audience wasn't given enough information to come to the same conclusions the characters did, and that just irks me. It's possible I didn't pick up on everything and it was there, I'm not really sure. I wanted to like it, the 'secret' things, talking in code, seamlessness of events unfolding as they came into plan but I mostly was just left confused.
Shannon's Overall View:
I was waiting for it to end
I wouldn't watch it again
I recommend it to people interested in spy/historical films but don't need there to be action
Warnings: torture
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
No commericals
6 minutes of 3 previews: The Italian, Smoken' Aces, Breach
Cast: Matt Damon, Angelina Jolie, Alec Baldwin, Billy Crudup, Michael Gambon, William Hurt, Timothy Hutton
USA, 2006
Seen: January 25, 2007 at the Carlton
Reason to see: Oscar nominated for art direction, also working on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is my second film for week 5/52.
This film wasn't for me. It's an interesting premise (beginning formation of the CIA), and there were a lot of good actors but it just didn't pull me in. Some of the notes I took included: What is it even about? I didn't believe...., How would you know that? slow....., etc. I felt like the audience wasn't given enough information to come to the same conclusions the characters did, and that just irks me. It's possible I didn't pick up on everything and it was there, I'm not really sure. I wanted to like it, the 'secret' things, talking in code, seamlessness of events unfolding as they came into plan but I mostly was just left confused.
Shannon's Overall View:
I was waiting for it to end
I wouldn't watch it again
I recommend it to people interested in spy/historical films but don't need there to be action
Warnings: torture
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
No commericals
6 minutes of 3 previews: The Italian, Smoken' Aces, Breach
Little Children
Writer/Dir: Todd Field (In the Bedroom)
Cast: Kate Winslet, Patrick Wilson, Jackie Earle Halye, Jennifer Connelly
USA, 2006
Seen: October 27, 2006 at the Varsity with Jamie
Reason to see: Hm... I'm not sure anymore why we went. Jamie had just read the book I believe, and it's always a pleasure to see anything that Kate Winslet is in.
It's a little bit of a challenge to write about this film as it saw it over 4 months ago, and didn't take any notes beyond what the previews were - but I'm going to give it my best nonetheless.
The best word I could use to describe this film, and my experience watching it, is complicated. Not as in 'hard to follow' but morally complicated. I think, in general, people take that as it shows 'real people' and of that I am not always convinced but in the case of this film, maybe so. With such an odd cast of characters it's a little hard to even root for anyone, but it does allow us to open our minds to the reasoning (logical or not) of why people do the things that they do. It's tragic, terrifying as well as tempting to watch the lives of the characters and their actions, choices and reactions to the situations they encounter or create. It pains your heart and makes your mind work so if that is what you want out of a film, its the one for you.
Shannon's Overall View:
I thought it was interesting
I would watch it again, but not over and over again
I'd recommend it to those who enjoy striking dramas
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
6 min showing 6 commercials, 7 minutes showing 3 previews (The History Boys, Stranger than Fiction, Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus)
Cast: Kate Winslet, Patrick Wilson, Jackie Earle Halye, Jennifer Connelly
USA, 2006
Seen: October 27, 2006 at the Varsity with Jamie
Reason to see: Hm... I'm not sure anymore why we went. Jamie had just read the book I believe, and it's always a pleasure to see anything that Kate Winslet is in.
It's a little bit of a challenge to write about this film as it saw it over 4 months ago, and didn't take any notes beyond what the previews were - but I'm going to give it my best nonetheless.
The best word I could use to describe this film, and my experience watching it, is complicated. Not as in 'hard to follow' but morally complicated. I think, in general, people take that as it shows 'real people' and of that I am not always convinced but in the case of this film, maybe so. With such an odd cast of characters it's a little hard to even root for anyone, but it does allow us to open our minds to the reasoning (logical or not) of why people do the things that they do. It's tragic, terrifying as well as tempting to watch the lives of the characters and their actions, choices and reactions to the situations they encounter or create. It pains your heart and makes your mind work so if that is what you want out of a film, its the one for you.
Shannon's Overall View:
I thought it was interesting
I would watch it again, but not over and over again
I'd recommend it to those who enjoy striking dramas
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
6 min showing 6 commercials, 7 minutes showing 3 previews (The History Boys, Stranger than Fiction, Fur: An Imaginary Portrait of Diane Arbus)
Saturday, March 10, 2007
Oscar-Nominated Best Documentary Short Films
If you are in the Toronto area, I highly recommend getting out in the next few days to The Bloor Cinema and watching the Oscar-Nominated Best Documentary Short Films.
I just got back from seeing them, and they are absolutely amazing.
Remaining show times are:
Sunday March 11th, 2007 at 7:15pm
Monday March 12, 2007 at 9:10pm
Tuesday March 13, 2007 at 7:00pm
The films are:
THE BLOOD OF YINGZHOU DISTRICT - Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon (Oscar winner)
RECYCLED LIFE - Leslie Iwerks and Mike Glad
REHEARSING A DREAM - Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon
TWO HANDS - Nathaniel Kahn and Susan Rose Behr
I just got back from seeing them, and they are absolutely amazing.
Remaining show times are:
Sunday March 11th, 2007 at 7:15pm
Monday March 12, 2007 at 9:10pm
Tuesday March 13, 2007 at 7:00pm
The films are:
THE BLOOD OF YINGZHOU DISTRICT - Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon (Oscar winner)
RECYCLED LIFE - Leslie Iwerks and Mike Glad
REHEARSING A DREAM - Karen Goodman and Kirk Simon
TWO HANDS - Nathaniel Kahn and Susan Rose Behr
Friday, March 09, 2007
Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 9, 2007!!!!
Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!!!
Long day, long week, short newsletter.
Festival Watch
World of Comedy Film Festival
Documentary films about visual artists
March 9-11, 2007 at Innis Town Hall, Toronto
www.worldcomedyfilmfest.com
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 9, 2007 Releases
300
Dir: Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead)
Cast: Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, Dominic West, David Wenham, Vincent Regan
USA
The Aura / El Aura
Writer/Dir: Fabián Bielinsky (Nine Queens)
Cast: Ricardo Darin, Dolores Fonzi, Alessandro Awada
Argentina/France/Spain
Limited Release
A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash
Dir: Basil Gelpke, Ray McCormack - directorial film debut
Documentary
Switzerland
Limited Release
The Namesake
Dir: Mira Nair (Vanity Fair, Monsoon Wedding, Mississippi Masala)
Cast: Kal Penn, Tabu, Irrfan Khan, Jacinda Barrett
India/USA
Limited Release
Starter for 10
Dir: Tom Vaughn - directorial feature film debut
Cast: James McAvoy, Alice Eve, Rebeca Hall, Charles Dance
UK/USA
Limited Release
The Ultimate Gift
Dir: Michael O. Sajbel (One Night with the King, The Ride, Power Play)
Cast: Drew Fuller, James Garner, Ali Hillis, Abigail Breslin
USA
Limited Release
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 9, 2007**
Long day, long week, short newsletter.
Festival Watch
World of Comedy Film Festival
Documentary films about visual artists
March 9-11, 2007 at Innis Town Hall, Toronto
www.worldcomedyfilmfest.com
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
Friday March 9, 2007 Releases
300
Dir: Zack Snyder (Dawn of the Dead)
Cast: Gerard Butler, Lena Headey, Dominic West, David Wenham, Vincent Regan
USA
The Aura / El Aura
Writer/Dir: Fabián Bielinsky (Nine Queens)
Cast: Ricardo Darin, Dolores Fonzi, Alessandro Awada
Argentina/France/Spain
Limited Release
A Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash
Dir: Basil Gelpke, Ray McCormack - directorial film debut
Documentary
Switzerland
Limited Release
The Namesake
Dir: Mira Nair (Vanity Fair, Monsoon Wedding, Mississippi Masala)
Cast: Kal Penn, Tabu, Irrfan Khan, Jacinda Barrett
India/USA
Limited Release
Starter for 10
Dir: Tom Vaughn - directorial feature film debut
Cast: James McAvoy, Alice Eve, Rebeca Hall, Charles Dance
UK/USA
Limited Release
The Ultimate Gift
Dir: Michael O. Sajbel (One Night with the King, The Ride, Power Play)
Cast: Drew Fuller, James Garner, Ali Hillis, Abigail Breslin
USA
Limited Release
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 9, 2007**
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Volver
Writer/Dir: Pedro Almodóvar (Talk to Her, Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown)
Cast: Penélope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Antonio de la Torre
Spain, 2006
Seen: March 3, 2007 at the Bloor
Reason to see: I'm a fan of Pedro Almodóvar's work, Penélope Cruz was nominated for Best Actress at the Oscar's and I am on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 10/52.
Lovely film. It was amazing to see Penélope Cruz in a Spanish film, previously I had only see her in English-speaking roles and it was so great to see her in this. I was also such a treat to see Carmen Maura, whom I loved her performance in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. I find it very interesting how many of Pedro Almodóvar are about women's stories, like this one, and done so well. It was also nice to see something a little lighter, the last one I've seen of his was Talk to Her / Hable con ella which was great but a little dark. Not that Volver is all sunshine and daisies, but it's a little more... hopeful. If you've never seen any of his work this would be a great one to start with.
Shannon's Overall View:
I really enjoyed it
I'll watch it again
I widely recommend it
No previews, no commercials. Started a few minutes late (which isn't out of the ordinary there ... it reminds me of when I worked Sundays at a pwyc box office and you really work to get as many people in as you can).
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Cast: Penélope Cruz, Carmen Maura, Antonio de la Torre
Spain, 2006
Seen: March 3, 2007 at the Bloor
Reason to see: I'm a fan of Pedro Almodóvar's work, Penélope Cruz was nominated for Best Actress at the Oscar's and I am on my third attempt of #7 on my 101 list: See 1 film a week in the theatre for a year. This is week 10/52.
Lovely film. It was amazing to see Penélope Cruz in a Spanish film, previously I had only see her in English-speaking roles and it was so great to see her in this. I was also such a treat to see Carmen Maura, whom I loved her performance in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown. I find it very interesting how many of Pedro Almodóvar are about women's stories, like this one, and done so well. It was also nice to see something a little lighter, the last one I've seen of his was Talk to Her / Hable con ella which was great but a little dark. Not that Volver is all sunshine and daisies, but it's a little more... hopeful. If you've never seen any of his work this would be a great one to start with.
Shannon's Overall View:
I really enjoyed it
I'll watch it again
I widely recommend it
No previews, no commercials. Started a few minutes late (which isn't out of the ordinary there ... it reminds me of when I worked Sundays at a pwyc box office and you really work to get as many people in as you can).
More Film Reviews here
Return to Film Fan Fridays
Friday, March 02, 2007
Film Fan Fridays for Friday March 2, 2007!!!!
Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!!!
Ahh, here we are in Post Oscar-ness. I thought it was a really fun one this year, Ellen was a lovely host and there were a lot of fun moments. Forest Whitaker's acceptance speech was my favourite. I was very surprized The Departed won best pic and well as got the most wins, but it was an unpredictable year! Congratulations to all the winners, and all the nominee's! It was a pretty interesting year.
Looking ahead, or in the now depending on how you look at it, we can have a look at this weeks releases. Mixed bag this week, the only one I had ever heard of outright was Zodiac. We also have the Canadian film Missing Victor Pellerin, a martial arts film from director Tsui Hark Seven Swords and biker buddy movie Wild Hogs. There is also Black Snake Moan, which has received some critical acclaim and although appears intriguing I think I will give it a pass as it also appears quite dark. Actually, all of the films this week do. Now, that is the way to recover from the February blahs! Maybe I'll just go watch Gidget instead...
Have a great weekend!!!
Shannon
....sneeky sneeky......
There is a screening of 300 (directed by Zach Snyder, starring Gerard Butler, Lena Headey and Dominic West) on Thursday March 8th, 2007 at midnight at the Scotiabank Theatre (formerly Paramount) and some other theatres in IMAX. Now that sounds pretty crazy, eh? Click here for more info. 300 opens in regular release next week, Friday March 9th, 2007.
Friday March 2, 2007 Releases
Black Snake Moan
Writer/Dir: Craig Brewer (Hustle & Flow, The Poor and the Hungry)
Cast: Samuel L. Jackson, Christina Ricci, Justin Timberlake
USA
Missing Victor Pellerin
Writer/Dir: Sophie Deraspe - directorial debut
Cast: Eudore Belzile, Anne Lebeau, Olga Korper, Élisabeth Legrand, Éric Devlin
Canada
Limited Release
Seven Swords / Chat gim
Dir: Tsui Hark (Once Upon a Time in China / Wong Fei Hung)
Cast: Donnie Yen, Leon Lai, Charlie Young, Sun Hong-lei
South Korea/Hong Kong/China
Limited Release
Wild Hogs
Dir: Walt Becker (Van Wilder)
Cast: Tim Allen, John Travolta, Martin Lawrence, Marisa Tomei, Jill Hennessy
USA
Zodiac
Dir: David Fincher (Panic Room, Fight Club, Se7en, The Game)
Cast: Jake Gyllenhaal, Mark Ruffalo, Robert Downey Jr., Elias Koteas
USA
**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada on March 2, 2007**
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