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Toronto Film Fest

Returning to Toronto International Film Fest – 4 Years Later!

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Hello Dayton937!

It’s been 4 years since I’ve made the trip to Toronto for TIFF (The Toronto International Film Festival), and my soul has truly missed it.  I know that this year will be very different.  Not only has COVID changed how festivals work, the ongoing writer & actor strikes will also likely change the energy at this year’s festival.  Regardless, I’m anxious to go and submerge myself in multiple screenings of international cinema for 9 days.

The illuminated sign on King Street West indicates the start of the festival!

I’m feeling a little out of practice, but I hope to update you every day with details about the films I’m seeing, the Q&A’s I’m observing and the glitterati I’m spotting.  I’m not sure how many parties will be happening this year, but I hope to pop in on a couple.

For industry folks, the fest works a little different.  I will have an opportunity to see 10 films with the general public.  These are the screenings where directors, producers and stars might walk the Red Carpet and be interviewed for television.  When people think “glamorous film festivals,” these are the screenings that come to mind.  That said, the majority of the films I screen will be in multiplex settings with other press and industry folks.  I might get sandwiched between an international sales agent on one side and someone writing for HOLLYWOOD REPORTER on the other.  It’s fun to rub elbows with a variety of people who make this industry tick.

Maya Hawke as Flannery O’Connor in WILDCAT

I already have a handful of tickets to screenings and events.  In addition to the premiere of NORTH STAR on Opening Night (the directorial debut of Kristin Scott Thomas – starring Scarlett Johansson), Taika Waititi’s latest NEXT GOAL WINS and the anticipated feature WILDCAT (directed by Ethan Hawke and produced by Dayton’s own Karri O’Reilly), I’m so delighted that I scored a ticket to IN CONVERSATION WITH PEDRO ALMODOVAR – a sit down interview (Charlie Rose-style – but in front of an audience)  with my favorite filmmaker of all time!

I’ll try to stay on top of updating this blog on a daily basis after my first day of movie watching.  (Screenings start on Sept. 7 – and I’ll have a full day!)  I’ll screen films through the 15th and head back to Dayton on the 16th.

Thanks for reading.

More soon,

Jonathan

“Celeste and Jesse” Starts Today at The Neon!

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Hello Everyone,

We’re moving along this weekend. Today we open a smart, new comedy starring Andy Samberg and Rashida Jones – CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER (the film was written by Jones, too).
THE INTOUCHABLES will hold for one more week.

Synopsis for CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER: “Celeste is convinced that divorcing Jesse is the right thing to do — she is on her way up, he is on his way nowhere, and if they do it now instead of later, they can remain supportive friends. Jesse passively accepts this transition into friendship, even though he is still in love with her. As the reality of their separation sets in, Celeste slowly and painfully realizes she has been cavalier about their relationship, and her decision, which once seemed mature and progressive, now seems impulsive and selfish. But her timing with Jesse is less than fortuitous. While navigating the turbulent changes in their lives and in their hearts, these two learn that in order to truly love someone, you may have to let them go.” (Sony Pictures Classics)  Visit the official website.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BjxbVmxgY-Q’]

The Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival has just confirmed that 2 directors will attend this year’s festival. Jonathan Lisecki, director of the opening night film GAYBY plans to attend. In addition, Travis Matthews, director of I WANT YOUR LOVE, will book his flight tomorrow. Read all about the films on the official website! The 7th Annual Fest is set for Sept. 28-30. Watch the trailers and mark your calendars…it’s gonna be great! Special thanks to DAYTON MOST METRO, WYSO and DAYTON DAILY NEWS for already committing to provide stories about this year’s films.  (Due to explicit content, viewers must be 18 and older for I WANT YOUR LOVE.)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JFo63Xhas1k’]

Folks have already been responding to the news of our benefit – set for October 14 (if you didn’t read that newsletter, you can check it out here). Thanks so much for your kind words and encouragement! Tickets can now be purchased at our box office and on-line via paypal. If you’re not able to attend our benefit, you can also make a donation on the benefit page.

Next week, I’ll be off to The Toronto International Film Festival. In my next newsletter, I’ll provide you with a link where you can keep up with my daily screenings. I’ve barely had time to look at the line-up, but I’m already excited about a few films.

FilmDayton had a great festival over the weekend. Thanks to everyone who came out and supported their screenings…and their mission.

We hope to see you soon,
Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Fri. Aug. 31 – Thu. Sept. 6:

CELESTE AND JESSE FOREVER (R) 1 Hr 32 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:50, 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

THE INTOUCHABLES (R) 1 Hr 52 Min
Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45
Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:30, 8:00

COMING SOON:
As always, all dates are tentative.
Many of these dates will change.
In some rare cases, titles may disappear.
Sept. 7 ROBOT AND FRANK
Sept. 14 FAREWELL, MY QUEEN
Sept. 21 THE MASTER
Sept. 21 ARBITRAGE
Sept. 28-30 DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL
Oct. 5 SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN
Oct. ? SLEEPWALK WITH ME
TBD THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES
TBD 2 DAYS IN NEW YORK
TBD SLEEPWALK WITH ME

HIGHER GROUND & More at THE NEON

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Hello Everyone.

Many thanks to those of you who supported this year’s Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival.  It was the most successful festival yet!  While CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE received the most enthusiastic response (if you missed this, you missed a complete gem), many attendees were also in love with WEEKEND and TOMBOY.

This weekend, we’re going to hold onto THE GUARD and THE WHISTLEBLOWERwhile opening a new film both directed by and starring Vera Farmiga – HIGHER GROUND.

Synopsis for HIGHER GROUND:  “Higher Ground, depicts the landscape of a tight-knit spiritual community thrown off-kilter when one of their own begins to question her faith. Inspired by Carolyn S. Briggs’ memoir, This Dark World, the film tells the story of a thoughtful woman’s struggles with belief, love, and trust. Faith, love and honesty are the cornerstones of this story of a woman who learns that no matter how many times she loses her footing, she has within herself all that’s necessary to get to a higher place.” (Sony Pictures Classics)  Visit the film’s official site.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRpFKwJHQ7g’]

This Sunday, The India Foundation will celebrate the birthday of Gandhi by presenting a reception and a free screening of the documentary MAHATMA.  “This one-hour documentary on the life of Mahatma Gandhi contains never-before-seen archival footage from the vaults of Films Davison of India.  Come over and join in Mahatma Gandhi’s 142nd birthday celebration.  Birthday cake, coffee, samaras in the lobby from 1:30 to 2:30.  The film starts at 3:00.  Admission is FREE – on first-come, first-seated basis.”

Below is a small collage of photos I took during this year’s Toronto International Film Festival.  Sadly, I didn’t always have my camera with me…and in some instances, I didn’t want to be “that guy” snapping pictures at a big party.  How many people can you name?

Living City is putting the final details in place for this Fall’s VAMPIRE retrospective.  Ticketing details will be available soon.  That said, you can mark your calendars now for October 17 – THE HUNGER, October 24 – DRACULA (starring Bela Lugosi), October 31 – THE LOST BOYS, November 7 – INTERVIEW WITH THE VAMPIRE, and November 14 – BRAM STOKER’S DRACULA (1992).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hsv_NQFbQzo’]

Next Friday (Oct. 7), we plan to open SENNA.  We’ve had numerous calls and e-mails about this film…so we hope that we’ll soon have another documentary hit on our hands!

Hope to see you this weekend,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 30 – October 6:

THE WHISTLEBLOWER (R) 1 Hr 52 Min

Friday, Saturday: 2:40, 7:15

Sunday: 7:15

Monday – Thursday:  3:10, 7:50

THE GUARD (R) 1 Hr 36 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday:  12:30, 5:00, 9:40

Monday – Thursday: 5:30

HIGHER GROUND (R) 1 Hr 49 Min

Friday, Saturday, Sunday: 12:20, 2:45, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

Monday – Thursday: 3:00, 5:20, 8:00

MAHATMAN (NR) 1 Hr

Sunday: 3:00 (reception begins at 1:30)

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.  Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Oct. 7   SENNA

Oct. 7 RESTLESS

Oct. 14  THE FUTURE

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18 MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Movies Galore This Weekend at THE NEON!

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Hello Everyone.

I’m back from Toronto and throwing myself right into details for the upcoming weekend at THE NEON.  Toronto was fantastic – 34 Films, a couple great parties and a chance to meet numerous people in the industry.  If you want to catch up on my daily blogs from the festival, click HERE.  In addition to my reaction to each film, I posted trailers, clips and pictures (and in the coming days, I’ll manage to upload some personal photos I took – including pictures of Tilda Swinton, Antonio Benderas, Jessica Chastain and more.)

If you still need to see SARAH’S KEY , you only have until Thursday to see it at THE NEON (visit our site for remaining showtimes).  THE GUARD – starring Brendan Gleeson & Don Cheadle – had a solid opening weekend.  It will stick around.  In addition to this weekend’s LGBT Film Festival, we will open THE WHISTLEBLOWER – starring Rachel Weisz, Vanessa Redgrave and David Strathairn on Friday.

Synopsis for THE WHISTLEBLOWER:  “Inspired by actual events, Kathy is an American police officer who takes a job working as a peacekeeper in post-war Bosnia. Her expectations of helping to rebuild a devastated country are dashed when she uncovers a dangerous reality of corruption, cover-up and intrigue amid a world of private contractors and multinational diplomatic double-talk.” (Samuel Goldwyn Pictures)  Visit the official website to read more about the film.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=al3anBiHwmI’]

The 6th Annual Downtown Dayton LGBT Film Festival is ready to go, and festival passes & single tickets are currently on sale at our box office.  Our closing movie on Sunday afternoon – a British film called WEEKEND – just received a fantastic review in The Village Voice.  To visit the official website for the festival, click HERE .  Trailers for each feature are on the site.  And don’t forget…if you get a ticket to the opening night film, you’re invited to the opening night party at Sidebar – which will include appetizers and complimentary sangria.  A movie starring Cheyenne Jackson & Julia Ormond + food & cocktails for only $8???  Almost too good to be true!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t4fZqbMrd2E’]

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On Thursday, September 29 at 7:30, director Lee Zellars has rented one of our auditoriums for the Dayton premiere of his Cincinnati-based film PURPLE HAZE. “Damian Ship was a talented musician in Haiti. He dreamed of coming to American and becoming a famous musician. This was made possible by CEO Sam Lucci – who signed him to his label but had no intention to living up to the agreement… When Damian is swindled out of monies due to him, he brings a wrath on Sam Lucci like nothing he ever experienced in all his shady dealings before. Damian Ship, later known as Purple Haze, brought forth a horror that would keep any record executive in check.”  Tickets are $10 each and are available at our box office.

Hope to see you this weekend,

Jonathan

SHOWTIMES for Sept. 23 – September 29:

THE WHISTLEBLOWER (R) 1 Hr 52 Min

Friday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

Saturday: 12:30, 5:10, 7:30

Sunday: 12:30, 2:50, 5:10, 7:30, 9:45

Monday – Thursday:  3:00, 5:30, 8:00

THE GUARD (R) 1 Hr 36 Min

Friday:  12:40, 2:50, 5:00, 9:50

Saturday: 2:50, 5:15, 9:50

Sunday: 5:10, 7:20, 9:30

Monday – Wednesday: 3:10, 5:30, 7:50

Thursday:  3:10, 5:30

DOWNTOWN DAYTON LGBT FILM FESTIVAL

Friday at 7:30 – THE GREEN

Saturday at 12:30 – GEN SILENT

Saturday at 3:00 – TOP DRAWER SHORTS

Saturday at 7:30 – TOMBOY

Saturday at 9:30 – GOING DOWN IN LA-LA LAND

Sunday at 12:30 – CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE

Sunday at 3:00 – WEEKEND

PURPLE HAZE (NR) 1 Hr 26 Min

Thursday: 7:30

COMING SOON:

As always, all dates are tentative.  Some of these dates will change.

In some cases, titles may disappear.

Sept 30   HIGHER GROUND

Sept. 30   THE FUTURE

Oct. 7   RESTLESS

Oct. 7   SENNA

Nov. 4  TAKE SHELTER

Nov. 18  MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE

Nov. 25   THE SKIN I LIVE IN

TBD   LIFE ABOVE ALL

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day 9

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Hello Everyone.

Yesterday was jam-packed, and I had to be up at 5:30 this morning in order to get to the airport on time (I’m sure glad I got there 2 hours in advance as suggested – that place was crazed at 6:30am).  Anyway, the following are the films I saw on my final day in Toronto.

First off, I saw a documentary called PATRON SAINTS.  This short piece about residents in a nursing home could have been even shorter.  In fact, I think that the poor image quality combined with the mostly poor camera work lend itself to being a better audio piece.  The only thing that makes this piece interesting are the characters – and though it’s certainly compelling to see their images, it’s their stories (and sometimes heartbreaking questions) that really count.  (Of course this trailer makes my criticism look off the mark…but perhaps a 30 minute film would have been better than 72 – given the minutes and minutes of shaky, outdoor, non-interesting photography).

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vm64o00Mvwc’]

Next up, I saw THE WOMAN IN THE FIFTH – a French film (though with lots of dialog in English) with Ethan Hawke and Kristin Scott Thomas.  The story involves a man who has returned to Paris (we’re led to believe that he just released from prison – but we begin to question all of our beliefs) in order to try and get time with his young daughter – from whom he has a restraining order.  Though he gets a few brief moments with her, he begins to write her a long letter – and eventually meets a muse (Kristin Scott Thomas) who insists that he return to writing a novel.  I liked this film, but it has me wondering if there were key details that I missed (as the last 15 minutes left me a little puzzled).  The trailer below is the French trailer (the only one available) – but there’s plenty of dialog in English.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B47yUeEQpg8′]

After that, I saw THE AWAKENING – a supernatural thriller with Rebecca Hall (with a supporting role by one of my favorites – Imelda Staunton).  This period film is about a woman who is called to an all boys’ school in order to disprove the rumors and fears that a ghost is responsible for the recent death of a student.  Interestingly, each time she disproves the presence of ghosts, she falls into a depression – because she wants nothing more than to be able to communicate with her dead lover.  The film will undoubtedly be linked to recent movies like THE OTHERS or THE ORPHANAGE…and that’s fair.  That said, I think it’s quite good.  The production values and performances make it stand out in its genre – and I jumped and shrieked with the rest of the audience.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8gShlq8cFUs’]

Lastly, I saw BEAUTY – a film set in South Africa.  The film is about a man who leads a very polished and respected life with his family – but secretly meets for group sex with a local group of closeted men.  The lead character becomes interested in the son of a family friend, and the movie becomes a spooky tale of obsession.  There are several critics/members of the gay community who loathe the depiction of gay men as leering, predatory creatures portrayed as nothing but wicked characters.  Though I certainly understand their point (it doesn’t do much in helping to create positive images of the lgbt community), this film is actually a cautionary tale about repression.  It’s the married men, hiding their true sexual identities, who should concern us.  They’re the ones who tend to be filled with self-loathing, resentment, jealousy and thus potentially unleashed anger…the ones who tend to seem the most homophobic and vote against lgbt rights (see numerous news stories regarding political and religious leaders who have been caught hiring rent boys and had public restroom encounters).  Though I don’t think this is a great film, it is well done and certainly unsettling.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WGfzaIJRLBo’]

So that’s it!  34 Films in 9 Days!

I’m home now…doing laundry, catching up on a bit of rest, and beginning to put all my thoughts into next weekend’s LGBT Film Fest at THE NEON.  (You know about that, right???)  www.daytonlgbt.com Tickets are on sale now!  If you can’t make it to everything, I personally suggest WEEKEND, TOMBOY, Top Drawer Shorts, and CAROL CHANNING: LARGER THAN LIFE.

Hope to see you soon,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day 8, Part 2

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Hello Again

Since I last wrote a blog, I’ve seen 2 films and had a great dinner with an old friend.  It’s not nearly as late as I have been writing the past several nights, and that’s refreshing.

At 3:30 today, I saw a film – AMERICANO -directed by Mathieu Demy – son of Jacques Demy & Agnes Varda.  He was also the lead actor in the film – with a supporting cast of a couple other children of well-known filmmakers – Chiara Mastoianni & Geraldine Chaplin  (if you don’t know who these kids are, I’d suggest googling them).  In addition, Selma Hayek is in the film.  Though I liked this movie, I had certain reservations with numerous plot points in the second half of the film.  The story regards a young man (in France) who receives news that his mother has passed away (in L.A.).  He makes the journey to tend to her house – claiming he has very few memories of his childhood.  However, certain images conjure memories…and for the flashbacks, Demy uses actual footage of himself  as a child that was shot by his father.  Below is a clip of the film – a trailer is not yet available.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VBLc86h-JZk’]

After that, I saw one of the best films so far.  TAKE SHELTER, which has already been dated for THE NEON, is absolutely incredible.  Jessica Chastain, who has so many films coming out this year, was present for an introduction and Q&A.  Not only is she luminous, she’s articulate, talented and also quite friendly.  The movie is about a man (played by Michael Shannon) who starts to fear that a terrible storm – unlike any other – is about to come.  His premonitions and dreams signal a need for him to create a safer living environment (as well as an underground shelter) for his family.  With an understanding that his mother has been institutionalized for mental illness, we immediately begin to understand that mental illness might be genetic.  I’m not going to write anything more…except that the two leads give incredible performances.  (AND THIS – This film was shot mostly in Ohio!! )

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I5U4TtYpKIc’]

3 or 4 more films tomorrow…then pack my bags.

More soon,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day 7 & 8

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Hello!

Last night, I saw a film that I’ve been quite interested to see for a while.  Several months ago, I first saw a trailer for SLEEPING BEAUTY – an Australian film that is “presented by Jane Campion.”  The film is a first feature for director Julia Leigh, and the story follows a college student who takes a job providing “silver service.”   The job is one in which the socially elite are served dinner and cocktails by beautiful, exposed women – and the service requires lots of protocal and particulars.  During the interview process, the woman in charge (a very sophisticated & beautifully dressed woman played by Rachael Blake) states “Your vagina will never be penetrated.  Your vagina is a temple.”  (I’ve noticed a couple recurring themes during this festival…bridges that can’t be crossed, “it’s him or me” has been stated in a few films, and now college girls becoming prostitutes to pay for tuition.)  Though captivated for the entire film, I must admit that parts of the film puzzled me…and several questions were left unanswered.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5sIGo9z2JDU&ob=av3e’]

This morning, I saw a comedy – MY WORST NIGHTMARE – by Anne Fontaine starring Isabelle Huppert (one of my favorite actresses).  The comedy is a class clash between an icy, uppity woman and the father of a boy who attends her son’s school.  Though very funny in parts (and nobody plays an ice queen like Huppert), the third act was a big dissapointment.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Yf9SImi-cOw’]

I just walked out of a film.  At this point, I’m too tired to sit through films now that aren’t capturing my attention.  I’ve got 2 more films today – then I’m meeting an old friend for dinner.  He and I met in line for Almodovar’s TALK TO HER back in 2002.

1.5 days left.

More soon,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #7, Part 1

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Hello Everyone,

I’ve seen three films already today…I have a bit of free time and I decided to write and update now (as I might be out late this evening).

First off, I saw HYSTERIA – a comedy set in 1880 starring Hugh Dancy & Maggie Gyllenhaal.  The movie is about a young doctor who is fired from his job and has to find a new place to work.  After being turned down numerous places, he is hired at a doctor’s office for women – most of whom seem to suffer from hysteria.  Though the trailer seems nothing but breezy, this little film is a gem and is actually quite touching (on par with the likes of MISS PETTIGREW LIVES FOR A DAY).  The performances, set design, costumes and score are wonderful.  NEON regulars will love this film!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zf4IlHaPRUg’]

Next I saw UNION SQUARE – starring Mira Sorvino and Emmy winner Tammy Blanchard (as well as a small part by Patti Lupone).  This rather stagey character study is relatively short, and overall, I don’t think it really worked on the big screen.  The performances are strong, but it feels like a play.  The story regards a woman who shows up on her sister’s doorstep after more than 3 years of not communicating.  One sister is in a pristine house with a husband and an organic food business…the other is from the Bronx and wonders what happened to her sister and her roots.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=34hSJwsz4-s’]

I just got out of a screening of ALPS – the new film from Yorgos Lanthimos – director of DOGTOOTH.  ALPS is the name of an underground group of roleplayers who substitute for people’s departed loved ones.  The relationships between characters in the group are often volatile, and the performances are often stagey and almost unbelievable…but the actors in the film are incredible.  I’m a big fan of DOGTOOTH, so I was excited to see this film.  It has some interesting things to say about the human condition and our need for roles.  Below is a photo I took of the director and his two leads actresses (I sadly didn’t see that Aggeliki Papoulia’s eyes were closed until I uploaded the photo to my computer) and a clip of some footage from the film.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hj2lR6Yp-gY’]

If I don’t check in again tonight, I’ll certainly be back tomorrow.

Cheers!

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #6

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Hello Everyone.

If you need showtimes for the upcoming weekend at THE NEON, please visit the official site at www.neonmovies.com.

Well…it was a mixed bag again today.

First off, I saw ELLES – a new, sexually charged film starring Juliette Binoche.  The movie is about a woman who is quite busy being a housewife…but is also a journalist.  For her latest story, she is interviewing 2 young ladies who have become prostitutes in order to put themselves through college.  While writing the story, she revisits her interviews and begins to question her marriage, her position and her own sexuality.  If you’re thinking BELLE DU JOUR (with Deneuve), so was I.  Though not as strong or provocative, I do like that it makes us think about how we perceive women.  The photography is good, and  Binoche is always a treat to watch.  There is no clip or trailer available, so all you get is the photo above.

Next I saw a film I’ve been dying to see.  The new film directed by Madonna – W.E. The movie concerns 2 stories – The relationship of Wallis Simpson and King Edward…and a contemporary story about a woman who is obsessed with the early 20th century romance.  (Though Madonna was in town for the premiere yesterday, she did not attend this 2nd screening.)  I went into the screening with a negative vibe.  I was prepared to be disappointed – as early criticism from Venice was mostly negative.  Then the movie started.  Though there were some visual choices that I didn’t care for, I was ready to stand up again the naysayers!  Andrea Riseborough – who plays Wallis Simpson – is absolutely spectacular.  The costumes are fantastic, the sets are divine.  Though camera work was a little unsettling, I was entirely engaged…for the first hour.  Then begin some moments that are simply inexcusable.  It’s really too bad…there’s a good film here, it just needs to be cut.  I’d be more than willing to offer my services.  This film needs 3 scenes cut…and overall about 20 minutes taken out…and it would be at the very least, a good film.  Below are a couple images of Riseborough and a scene from the film.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=msii9-OyZ3I’]

Lastly, I saw the latest film from Whit Stillman – who hasn’t made a film in more than a decade.  DAMSELS IN DISTRESS is CLUELESS for the college set.  I thought it was a scream.  Stillman, lead actress Greta Gerwig (who you might remember as the best part of GREENBERG), Adam Brody, and a couple other damsels were at the screening.  It’s the funniest movie I’ve seen at this year’s festival, and I think it will certainly develop a following.  Below is a clip – but by no means the funniest part of the film.

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4 Films tomorrow…need to be up by 6:00 one last time.  Thus off to bed.

Cheers,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day # 5

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We’ll soon see if I can get 5 hours of sleep tonight instead of the 3-4 hours I’ve had over the past couple nights.

I saw 4 films again…which makes a grand total of 20 so far!!

First I saw SALMON FISHING IN THE YEMEN with Ewan McGregor, Emily Blunt and Kristin Scott Thomas.  A woman beside me loved it.  Another woman at a different screening later in the day started gushing about it.  So perhaps this film was specifically made for a female audience age 45-60.  I certainly did not like it!!  Though it had a couple moments that reeled me in, it’s ultimately the most uneven and slight film I’ve seen so far.  It’s a romantic comedy & ecologically/socially conscious (though full of negative stereotypes), terrorist thriller…about salmon being introduced into the Yeman.  Cutesy one minute – terrorists the next.  AKA – A Gigantic Mess, in my opinion.  Below is a clip.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XanH9wjBAD0′]

Next off, I saw ALBERT NOBBS – starring the absolutely incredible Glenn Close.  This film was a little more whimsical than I suspected.  That said, the film does tackle some interesting ideas – and all the more interesting is the fact that the film is based on a short story from the early 1900’s.  It’s about a woman who presents herself as a man in order to gain employment as a butler in the late 1800’s.  The film reminded me, in tone, of CRANFORD or MRS. HENDERSON PRESENTS.  Relatively jovial (at first) – but with big undercurrents of sadness and yearning.  The set design, costumes and score are marvelous…and  I should hope that Ms. Close gets an Oscar nomination (though some of the other performances are also quite wonderful). Below is a clip.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG2YL7Nm_Jo’]

MONSIEUR LAHZAR was the next film I saw.  I saw this film because it was directed by the same man who did IT WASN’T ME, I SWEAR (which I saw a few years ago and loved) – Philippe Falardeau.  This French Canadian film is about a man who comes to teach in a classroom in which the former teacher had committed suicide.  He’s got his own baggage…but lots is gained from both students and teacher alike.  The frustrations of dealing with parents and administration will certainly be empathized by many of you who have taught in the public school system.  The film is very good.  The trailer below is not yet available with subtitles…as it has not yet found a distributor in The States.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xpi0LzyU0BQ’]

Lastly, I saw Christophe Honore’s new film – BELOVED – starring Chiara Mastroianni, Ludivine Sagnier, Catherine Deneuve, Louis Garrel, and a handful of other familiar faces.  First off, the film is much too long.  That said, I still loved so much about it.  If you’re familiar with Honore’s earlier film LOVE SONGS, this is similar (meaning there are several musical numbers – but almost presented as dialog (if you think, “Sounds like UMBRELLAS OF CHERBOURG” – we’re on the same page.).  The film spans several decades and is a candid and emotional look at contemporary sexual politics.  The opening scenes in the 60’s are delightful…and get heavier (though still with some moments of great joy) as the film progresses.  Because the film was in a smaller venue tonight, I decided to pack light and not take my camera with me.  I was surprised (but bummed that I didn’t have my camera) to find out that Honore and Garrel were present for an introduction and Q&A.  (I did manage to get a cell phone pic after the screening in a better lit space…though not a great picture, I have posted it at the end of this post.)  Below is a trailer.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SMmyWfjdrbA’]

More soon!!

(I didn’t make it.  Already after 1:00am…need to be up by 6:00.  Oh well.  I’ll sleep in October.)

Toronto – THE FILM – Day #4, Part 1

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OK…

Once again, I find myself getting in much too late to type a full recap…so I’ll make it short and sweet…with more to come.

The Tilda Swinton Interview/Q&A was a divine experience.  The 75 minutes flew by – I could have stayed for hours!!!

BARRYMORE – a film with Christopher Plummer reprising his role as John Barrymore (from his one-man-show on Broadway) – was solid, but not cinematic enough to get a theatrical release.  I think it will make a better Masterpiece Theatre evening.

Next, I saw SHAME – the new Steve McQueen film starring Michael Fassbender.  A film about sexual addiction, this film is highly charged and quite wonderful.  Fassbender and McQueen were at the screening.  I was in the front row.  Below is a clip.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIXj-pDHxyc’]

The last film I saw today was the new Pedro Almodovar film – THE SKIN I LIVE IN.  I won’t say too much…as I’m a little sad that I knew plot points before seeing the film.  The movie is 100x’s better than the trailer (which is below) – and I suggest not knowing a whole lot about the plot.  Just enjoy Pedro’s new highly stylized thriller that is both shocking and emotionally charged.  Both leads – Antonio Benderas & Elena Anaya – introduced the film.  Once again, I was in the front row!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EolQSTTTpI4′]

Additional sightings…IndieWire conducted interviews in the industry lounge today with Morgan Spurlock and Emily Blunt (along with the director from YOUR SISTER’S SISTER – also known for HUMPDAY).

More tomorrow!!

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #3, Part 2

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Hello Again,

With less than 4 hours of sleep, I managed to crawl out of bed this morning and get to my ticket line by 7:00.  I got the tickets I desired for Tuesday (which made me happy…and I’ll make you wait until Tuesday for you to see why).  I also managed to get the last available ticket (they made a few available this morning) to a Maverick session with Tilda Swinton – which I just attended.  I’ll write more about that later – it was divine.

Yesterday’s films were a mixed bag.

First off, I saw Andrea Arnold’s WUTHERING HEIGHTS.  Though still a period piece, this is unlike any version you’ve seen before.  With a contemporary shooting style and almost entirely without scoring, this film took a little while for me to become invested.  The dialog is quite altered (I don’t recall Bronte’s text having such vulgar language), but the story remains quite similar (though no ghosts per se)…and like FISH TANK, Arnold shot the film in 4×3 – which confines the characters more than a more panoramic aspect ratio.  The film is not something I’d want to seek out to own, but it’s worth a viewing for the sake of it’s “honest” rendering of the story…though I feel it plays a little long.  Below is a clip.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0eN8kzHJEH0′]

Next I saw the new film from Todd Solondz – DARK HORSE.  The story is about the ultimate man-child (played by Jordan Gelber) who still lives with his parents in a room filled with action figures and Absolut Vodka magazine ads lining the walls (in an early scene, we see him avoiding work by considering to pay $350 for a Thundercats action figure on e-bay).  Solondz revels in making movies about the socially awkward.  This is his most accessible film – and was quite funny for the first 45 minutes.  (Mia Farrow, who plays his mother, is quietly hysterical.)  Eventually, I thought the film got a bit stale – and the last 15 minutes was a bit of a puzzle (but perhaps my sleep deprivation was finally getting to me).  Below is a teaser – from a scene in which the lead character goes to visit the girl (played by Selma Blair) he recently met (and fell for) at a wedding.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zp9ueZ6rUA8′]

My next screening was THE DESCENDANTS.  This film is fantastic, and I already posted the trailer in yesterday’s post.  This film will be a hit – both at the box office and critically.  The film is about a man who is dealing with raising his daughters while his wife lays in a coma (which was a result of a speed-boat accident).  The film is as funny as it is touching, and the performances are fantastic across the board.  (Clooney, during the Q&A, was absolutely charming.)

And then there was the party – hosted by Fox Searchlight, Vanity Fair and Belvedere Vodka.  Lots of folks were there.  Clooney, Elizabeth Olsen (as well as numerous people from MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE), Juliette Lewis, Kirsten Dunst, Alexander Skarsgard, and several talk show corespondents.  I got to talk with several very interesting people in the film business – from producers, to a production designer, to people in marketing.  It was a great party!  The cocktails and food were delicious, and upon leaving, I once again ran into James Franco.  Always a great way to end the evening.

More soon!

Jonathan

P.S.  New Pedro Almodovar film tonight!!!

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #3 Part 1

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OK…I just got home from a party…it’s 2AM…I’ll give you more details tomorrow!

Just wanted to let you know a couple quick things.

Alexander Payne’s THE DESCENDANTS – of which I saw the “official world premiere” tonight – is absolutely wonderful.  I suspect that it will be nominated for “Best Picture.” (the picture in this post is not mine – I found by doing a google image search…it’s from the National Post’s website…that said, it’s from earlier today).

I saw three films today.  Andrea Arnold’s new adaptation of WUTHERING HEIGHTS (she’s responsible for one of my favorite films of recent years – FISH TANK), Todd Solondz’s new film DARK HORSE and Alexander Payne’s THE DESCENDANTS.

I’ll write more soon.

For now, enjoy the following trailer…

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CWHNXJ1K4yA’]

Toronto – THE FILMS – Day #2

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Hello Again,

Today was full once again…and I’m going to try and keep this “brief.”  I saw 5 films – and overall, it was a better day than yesterday.

First off, I saw MARTHA MARCY MAY MARLENE – starring Elizabeth Olsen (sister to the Olsen twins) & John Hawkes (from WINTER’S BONE).  Many people will relate WINTER’S to MARTHA.  There’s a similar backwoods tone to the film…and it’s a very human thriller…but that’s it.  This film about a girl who has escaped a cult and has difficulty assimilating into traditional “American manners” is at first quietly unsettling and eventually becomes terrifying.  Olsen is fantastic, and I’ll be concerned anytime I hear pine cones on my roof.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_k3wCsOgqk’]

Next I saw A DANGEROUS METHOD – the new film from David Cronenberg.  I liked the trailer.  On paper, the film seems ready-made for me – A period piece with high production values, actors I like, interesting subject matter (Jung & Freud), Christopher Hampton as screenwriter…but there was something about the film that didn’t make it work for me.  Knightley’s accent was a bit hard to take – but otherwise, her performance was fantastic.  I found Cassel a bit hard to take, but Fassbender was wonderful.  I just couldn’t find a way into the film – though some are already declaring it a masterpiece.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=664eq7BXQcM’]

Next I saw THE KID WITH A BIKE – the new film from the Dardenne Brothers (directors of LORNA’S SILENCE).  The most naturalistic narrative I’ve seen so far…and it’s such a simple story that is heartbreaking without really playing moments for tears.  This movie is about a boy who is left alone at a group home.  He’s certain his father is at home – but it’s evident that his father has left and even sold the boy’s bike.  Enter a woman who takes an interest in the boy and agrees to let him stay with her on the weekends.  It’s simple.  It’s great.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ce3t1YIYokY’]

And then there’s THE ARTIST.  I saw this at a public screening – the director and lead actor introduced the film…and it’s really, really terrific.  Beautifully shot.  Great performances.  And the story is a hybrid of A STAR IS BORN, SINGIN’ IN THE RAIN and SUNSET BOULEVARD…but silent!  I’ll let the trailer do the rest.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8K9AZcSQJE’]

THE ARTIST got a late start…so I had to leave early.  I got up from my seat about 5 minutes before it was over and went to the back of the auditorium.  I asked the usher if the other screening (in a theatre upstairs) had started seating yet.  She said, “No,” so I asked if I could continue watching from the back.  Moments before it ended, I had to get out in order to make it to my screening on time.  The usher led me to a back door which wouldn’t interfere with the light of the theatre.  Upon opening the door, there she was…just six feet in front of me – being ushered to the elevator for my next screening.  Tilda Swinton!  One of my favorite actresses of ALL TIME.  Absolutely stunning!

I made it to my last screening with just a few minutes to spare, and I got a front row seat.  (I’ll upload my pictures sometimes soon.)  WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN is based on a famous book about a mother reflecting on how she raised her son – and how it might have led to his violent behavior.  It’s edgy, it’s non-linear, and it is somewhat experimental.  Directed by Lynne Ramsay, this film is a rough ride.  Interestingly, I think the musing are akin to Lars von Trier…but with Ramsay, the product is organic.  It feels richer, more honest and less contrived.  Swinton is brilliant in this film (as is Ezra Miller), and I’m still thinking about it.  I’m so delighted that I got see Swinton in person…EDWARD II, ORLANDO, THE DEEP END, I AM LOVE…I could go on!

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZLRgAe2jLaw’]

Off to bed.

Until tomorrow,

Jonathan

Toronto – THE FILMS Day #1

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Hello Everyone,

I’m gonna keep this ever-so-slightly short.  It’s already after midnight…and I made the most of today.  Get ready.  I saw 5 films!!

First off, I saw Lars von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA.  I’ll start by saying I love DANCER IN THE DARK and I’m quite fond of DOGVILLE.  That said, I’m not a fan of MELANCHOLIA!  There is some truly beautiful photography and there are a couple wonderful moments.  In addition, the themes are compelling…but von Trier’s “meditation” on the collision of worlds (both figuratively and literally) is a serious story with lots of dark, comedic moments…and the two parts of the film (part one focuses on the marriage night of Kirsten Dunst’s character…the second focuses on the fear that  Charlotte Gainsbourg’s character has about a planet crashing into earth) are actually quite disjointed. Ultimately, I felt quite aggravated by most of the time – and not in a good way.

Next I saw Nadine Labaki’s new film WHERE DO WE GO NOW (she made the film CARAMEL – which I love).  Though there are a couple moments that caused me to raise an eyebrow, I ultimately found this film quite wonderful.  The women are absolutely delightful.  The story is about a small village that has essentially been shut off from the rest of the world (except for a small path/bridge that is quite scary to cross).  The village, inhabited by Muslims & Christians, have learned to live in harmony.  When they find out that there is unrest in the surrounding world, they begin to fight again…and the women decide they’ll do whatever necessary to keep their men alive.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2NO_8Nyk-qQ’]

Next I saw THE IDES OF MARCH.  This will get a wide release in the coming weeks.  I mostly saw it because I had time, because it was shot in Cincinnati, and because I’ll be at a party with George Clooney on Saturday night (he directed it).  Except for the slight tabloid-feeling story, I actually think the film is quite solid.  The performances are good (I love Gossling) and the dialog is well-written.  For the first 30 minutes of the film, I was ready to vote for Clooney for president.  (there is also a Dayton connection)

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=McCt-_yYLpo’]

For the fourth film, I saw PINA.  I posted a trailer to this film last night.  PINA was today’s highlight.  The film, under the direction of Wim Wenders (responsible for PARIS, TEXAS and WINGS OF DESIRE) is complete magic.  I’ve been moved by dance before…but never like this!  (Here is yesterday’s POSTING if you want to check out that trailer.)  Wenders introduced the film, and he put the piece into perspective.  He and Pina had been talking about making this film for 20 years.  She died before it could happen, but people twisted Wenders’ arms and he decided to move forward.  This film acts at once as a eulogy…and also a way to keep Pina alive.

Lastly, I saw RESTLESS – the new film from Gus Van Sant – starring Mia Wasikowska (from THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT and JANE EYRE) and Henry Hopper (Dennis Hopper’s son).  The story is about a boy obsessed with funerals who meets a girl (full of life) with terminal Cancer.  Mia glows at every turn, and there are a couple very good moments…but ultimately, this film had me sighing numerous times.  It’s over-scored, it has a moment of archival footage that totally doesn’t work, and the characters seem to only exist in their quirkiness – there’s not a lot of depth.  That said, some people really seemed to enjoy the film (it was a sold-out auditorium that seats 1250).  Van Sant, Mia and the producer and screenwriter were there.

Other sightings today:  Roger Ebert, Atom Egoyan, and one of my favorite film writers/critics – Peter Knegt of indiewire.

Well…it’s 1:30 now.

5 Hours sleep….then off again tomorrow morning quite early.

Thanks for reading,

Jonathan

In Toronto – Films Start Tomorrow!

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Hello!

I got to Toronto this afternoon (it’s 6:00 Wednesday evening as I write this), found my way to Banting House (the B&B where I’m staying), then scurried to the Hyatt Regency where I picked up my festival materials (my Industry pass allows me access to all Press/Industry screenings + 2 public screenings per day…though I can only get those public screening tickets 1 day in advance and based on availability).

I quickly opened my schedules and began marking and cross-referencing the films that I want to see.   Most films are offered at least once or twice to the Press/Industry folks and at least twice to the Public.  It then becomes a game – trying to determine which films I’d prefer to see in a setting with the public (which are generally screenings at which directors & stars appear…not to mention, the public seem to appreciate the work more than the often cynical P/I folks).  Making my schedule is a process that will be an on-going effort as I start to hear buzz about new and exciting films.  Every night, I will determine my best strategy for the next day…and more than likely, I’ll be out the door by 7am to try and get my most-desired tickets for the following day.  (OK – sorry – that was long-winded.)

All that said, I managed to get tickets to 2 public films for tomorrow.  I got a ticket to Wim Wenders’ PINA – a performance/documentary featuring choreography of the legendary Pina Bausch…and in 3D nonetheless (this is a film I’ve been terribly excited to see).  I also got a ticket  to Gus Van Sant’s new film RESTLESS (which is already scheduled to open at THE NEON this Fall).  In addition to these public screenings, I’ve got lots more to chose from tomorrow.  Von Trier’s MELANCHOLIA, a French film called BEAUTY, Tilda Swinton’s new film WE NEED TO TALK ABOUT KEVIN (though I think I’d prefer to see that at a public screening), WHERE DO WE GO NOW (the new film from Nadine Labaki), and THE IDES OF MARCH (George Clooney’s film – which I think he shot in Cincinnati).  Sooooo….too many films for one day – so I have to start making decisions tonight.

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4oCNsJHJDA’]

[yframe url=’http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0EnEBEZNkB4′]

Thanks for reading!  I’ll keep you posted.

Jonathan