Romanticized of late by disgruntled Americans enraged with President Trump and threatening immigration to its friendly northern neighbor, Canada has always held a significant spot in the zeitgeist of popular culture (Celine Dion! Justin Beiber! Ryan Gosling!). “Everything is better in Canada!” has been the ubiquitous trope echoing across the United States these past four years, with promises of socialized medicine, fresh, crisp air and a bounty of polite Canadians within reach across the border — if only those borders were open.
But aside from deeply entrenched stereotypes in the way of moose, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Tim Hortons donuts, what do Americans truly know and understand about Canada?
The Whistler Film Fest, launching its 20th edition Dec. 1-20, has always emphasized its commitment to bolstering the global exposure for Canadian filmmakers — and, by proxy, Canadian cultural content. This year is no exception. With an online model in place due...
But aside from deeply entrenched stereotypes in the way of moose, the Toronto Maple Leafs and Tim Hortons donuts, what do Americans truly know and understand about Canada?
The Whistler Film Fest, launching its 20th edition Dec. 1-20, has always emphasized its commitment to bolstering the global exposure for Canadian filmmakers — and, by proxy, Canadian cultural content. This year is no exception. With an online model in place due...
- 12/1/2020
- by Malina Saval
- Variety Film + TV
In today’s film news roundup, Bruce Dern’s “The Lears” and “Angels Are Made of Light” are acquired, Cold War drama “Stanley Cage” is launched and a documentary about Madonna’s early music career gets a release.
Acquisitions
Vertical Entertainment has acquired North American rights from NeoClassics Films to “The Lears,” starring Bruce Dern in a modern-day interpretation of William Shakespeare’s “King Lear,” Variety has learned exclusively.
The film also stars Anthony Michael Hall, Sean Astin, Aly Michalka, Nic Bishop and Victoria Smurfit. Vertical is planning a day and date platform release on Feb. 15 in 10 markets.
Written and directed by Carl Bessai, “The Lears” premiered in 2017 at the Nashville Film Festival. Smurfit recently won the Irish Film & TV Academy Award for best supporting actress for her role in the film.
Dern portrays a world-renowned architect nearing retirement who summons his four dysfunctional children to a weekend family retreat...
Acquisitions
Vertical Entertainment has acquired North American rights from NeoClassics Films to “The Lears,” starring Bruce Dern in a modern-day interpretation of William Shakespeare’s “King Lear,” Variety has learned exclusively.
The film also stars Anthony Michael Hall, Sean Astin, Aly Michalka, Nic Bishop and Victoria Smurfit. Vertical is planning a day and date platform release on Feb. 15 in 10 markets.
Written and directed by Carl Bessai, “The Lears” premiered in 2017 at the Nashville Film Festival. Smurfit recently won the Irish Film & TV Academy Award for best supporting actress for her role in the film.
Dern portrays a world-renowned architect nearing retirement who summons his four dysfunctional children to a weekend family retreat...
- 1/17/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Dallas Buyers Club executive producer Tony Notargiacomo and Die Hard With A Vengeance executive producer Robert Lawrence have boarded the Canada-us project as producer and executive producer, respectively.
Carl Bessai (pictured), whose credits include Emile and Normal, will direct from a screenplay by Shannon Beaty.
Gearshift principals Borga Dorter and Jordan Barker will produce alongside Notargiacomo and Beaty.
All The Rage is based on Margaret Atwood’s critically acclaimed short story Hairball and follows a driven career woman in her 30s.
When she is lured from a cutting edge magazine in Berlin to a conservative, male-run publishing company in Toronto that stifles her ambitions, the woman plots revenge.
Production is earmarked for spring in Canada.
Carl Bessai (pictured), whose credits include Emile and Normal, will direct from a screenplay by Shannon Beaty.
Gearshift principals Borga Dorter and Jordan Barker will produce alongside Notargiacomo and Beaty.
All The Rage is based on Margaret Atwood’s critically acclaimed short story Hairball and follows a driven career woman in her 30s.
When she is lured from a cutting edge magazine in Berlin to a conservative, male-run publishing company in Toronto that stifles her ambitions, the woman plots revenge.
Production is earmarked for spring in Canada.
- 8/31/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
The Whistler Film Festival (Wff) is seeking submissions for its 16th annual festival, which runs from November 30th to December 4th, 2016 and will feature up to 90 films comprised of approximately 45 features and 45 shorts. Canadian and International filmmakers are invited to submit films of all lengths and genres by the following deadlines: April 30th for early film submissions (discount on application); June 30th for regular film deadline; and July 31st for late film deadline with the extended late film deadline on August 15th.
Cinematic excellence is at the heart of the Whistler Film Festival. To recognize the vitality of this art form, the 2016 festival will feature six juried competitive sections, one audience award, and will give out over $32,500 in cash prizes and commissions. Award categories include the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature, World Documentary Film Award, Mountain Culture Award, the International and Canadian ShortWork Awards, and the BC Student ShortWork Award. All feature length films are eligible for the Audience Award selected by the festival-going public who cast their votes for the most popular film.
"Building on the success of our first fifteen years, the Whistler Film Festival remains the last significant North American festival within each calendar year, and continues to build on its reputation as “Canada’s coolest festival”,” says Paul Gratton, Wff’s Director of Programming. “For Canadian dramatic films, all Western premieres will automatically compete for the prestigious Borsos awards, and participants at the festival will have unprecedented access to distributors, broadcasters and commissioning editors from across the country. For non-Canadian entries, Whistler affords unique publicity and distribution opportunities, and serves as an entry point to the North American market. This festival has a focus on indie production that continues to grow in prestige and influence from year to year. As a filmmaker, Whistler is one festival that you can’t afford to miss.”
Celebrating its 13th edition in 2016, the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature honors independent vision, original directorial style and the diversity of talent found in Canadian independent film. All feature films of new, narrative work by Canadian filmmakers presenting their Western Canadian premieres at the festival will be eligible. In 2015, 20 entries were presented. For twelve consecutive years, Borsos Competition entries have exuded the creative fire and artistry embodied by filmmaker Phillip Borsos, known for his inspiring work on the award-winning films "The Grey Fox" (1982), and "Bethune: The Making of a Hero" (1990). An international jury of three seasoned industry veterans adjudicate the following awards: Best Canadian Feature Film (the largest cash and commission festival prize for a Canadian film after Tiff, which includes a $15,000 cash prize and $15,000 post production prize); Best Director of a Borsos Film; Best Screenplay for a Borsos Film; Best Performance in a Borsos Film; and Best Cinematography in a Borsos Film. Esteemed jury presidents have included Carl Bessai, Jason Priestley, Luc Déry, Martin Katz, Bruce Greenwood, Ivan Reitman, Atom Egoyan, Donald Sutherland, Robert Lantos and Norman Jewison.
From the personal to the political, Whistler’s World Documentary Competition will showcase up to eight innovative and unique documentaries from around the world. With courageous viewpoints and a deep-rooted desire to explore, these films capture the human spirit in its many guises and often challenge us to look at our world from a new perspective. An international jury of three will select the winner.
Up to five films will be eligible for Whistler’s Mountain Culture Film Competition. As a reflection of the festival’s unique setting, this award honours films from around the world that capture mountain places and experiences with a cinematic flourish. All films must be Western Canadian Premieres. A jury of three will select the winner.
Whistler’s ShortWork Competition will showcase up to 50 short films (under 50 minutes in length) within five short film programs. Presented with verve and limited only by their duration, these short films display the extraordinary talent, dynamism and creative exploration found in the work of some of the world’s most interesting filmmakers. A jury of three will select the International winner and a Canadian winner, which is eligible for a $1,000 cash prize and a $1,000 cash prize to the Best Canadian ShortWork Screenplay.
The BC Student ShortWork Award will be presented to a short film produced by post-secondary students in British Columbia selected from a film program of up to ten films. A three-person jury will award a $500 Cdn prize.
Film submission guidelines are now available at www.whistlerfilmfestival.com .
Cinematic excellence is at the heart of the Whistler Film Festival. To recognize the vitality of this art form, the 2016 festival will feature six juried competitive sections, one audience award, and will give out over $32,500 in cash prizes and commissions. Award categories include the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature, World Documentary Film Award, Mountain Culture Award, the International and Canadian ShortWork Awards, and the BC Student ShortWork Award. All feature length films are eligible for the Audience Award selected by the festival-going public who cast their votes for the most popular film.
"Building on the success of our first fifteen years, the Whistler Film Festival remains the last significant North American festival within each calendar year, and continues to build on its reputation as “Canada’s coolest festival”,” says Paul Gratton, Wff’s Director of Programming. “For Canadian dramatic films, all Western premieres will automatically compete for the prestigious Borsos awards, and participants at the festival will have unprecedented access to distributors, broadcasters and commissioning editors from across the country. For non-Canadian entries, Whistler affords unique publicity and distribution opportunities, and serves as an entry point to the North American market. This festival has a focus on indie production that continues to grow in prestige and influence from year to year. As a filmmaker, Whistler is one festival that you can’t afford to miss.”
Celebrating its 13th edition in 2016, the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature honors independent vision, original directorial style and the diversity of talent found in Canadian independent film. All feature films of new, narrative work by Canadian filmmakers presenting their Western Canadian premieres at the festival will be eligible. In 2015, 20 entries were presented. For twelve consecutive years, Borsos Competition entries have exuded the creative fire and artistry embodied by filmmaker Phillip Borsos, known for his inspiring work on the award-winning films "The Grey Fox" (1982), and "Bethune: The Making of a Hero" (1990). An international jury of three seasoned industry veterans adjudicate the following awards: Best Canadian Feature Film (the largest cash and commission festival prize for a Canadian film after Tiff, which includes a $15,000 cash prize and $15,000 post production prize); Best Director of a Borsos Film; Best Screenplay for a Borsos Film; Best Performance in a Borsos Film; and Best Cinematography in a Borsos Film. Esteemed jury presidents have included Carl Bessai, Jason Priestley, Luc Déry, Martin Katz, Bruce Greenwood, Ivan Reitman, Atom Egoyan, Donald Sutherland, Robert Lantos and Norman Jewison.
From the personal to the political, Whistler’s World Documentary Competition will showcase up to eight innovative and unique documentaries from around the world. With courageous viewpoints and a deep-rooted desire to explore, these films capture the human spirit in its many guises and often challenge us to look at our world from a new perspective. An international jury of three will select the winner.
Up to five films will be eligible for Whistler’s Mountain Culture Film Competition. As a reflection of the festival’s unique setting, this award honours films from around the world that capture mountain places and experiences with a cinematic flourish. All films must be Western Canadian Premieres. A jury of three will select the winner.
Whistler’s ShortWork Competition will showcase up to 50 short films (under 50 minutes in length) within five short film programs. Presented with verve and limited only by their duration, these short films display the extraordinary talent, dynamism and creative exploration found in the work of some of the world’s most interesting filmmakers. A jury of three will select the International winner and a Canadian winner, which is eligible for a $1,000 cash prize and a $1,000 cash prize to the Best Canadian ShortWork Screenplay.
The BC Student ShortWork Award will be presented to a short film produced by post-secondary students in British Columbia selected from a film program of up to ten films. A three-person jury will award a $500 Cdn prize.
Film submission guidelines are now available at www.whistlerfilmfestival.com .
- 3/9/2016
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
The 15th anniversary celebration of the Whistler Film Festival wrapped Sunday night, living up to its title as ‘Canada’s coolest film fest’ by hosting more premieres, filmmakers, industry executives, and celebrities than ever before, including unique experiences from films, music and parties to high adrenaline races.
The Whistler Film Festival’s Pandora Audience Award went to British-American romantic drama "Carol," directed by Todd Haynes from the screenplay by Phyllis Nagy (Variety 10 Screenwriters to Watch class of 2014) starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, which received its Canadian premiere at Whistler. The Wff Audience Award runner-ups were "The Legend of Barney Thomson," character-actor Robert Carlyle's first theatrical feature and directorial debut, which received its North American premiere at the festival, followed by Ricardo Trogi’s mid-life crisis dramedy, Quebec film "Le Mirage," the highest grossing and most popular Canadian film of the year so far. The Wff Audience Award is a non-cash prize presented to the highest-rated film as voted by the audience.
Paul Gratton, Director of Programming had this to say about this year’s event: "We were very fortunate to open this year's fest with the Canadian premiere of "Carol," a film we are convinced will be a major contender in this year's awards season race. The festival took off from there, with many sold out screenings, packed and newsworthy industry sessions, and over 450 guests who made a point of trekking out to beautiful Whistler to support their films and talk business with the high-level movers and shakers also in attendance. 2015 represented another step forward towards making Wff the coolest festival in the world. Can't wait 'til next year.”
Total attendance for this year’s fest was 13,233 attendees (a 18% increase over 11,273 in 2014) . This included 7,740 film-screening attendees and 3,533 special event attendees (Signature Series, Music Café, ShortWork Showcase, R-Rated Party, Awards Brunch, L’Oreal Men Expert Bobsleigh Race and Celebrity Challenge Ski Race), in addition to 2,530 Summit attendees. Several of the feature films were at or near capacity, including: "Born to be Blue," "Chasing Bansky," "Forsaken," "How to Plan and Orgy in a Small Town," "Legend,""Legend of Barney Thomson," "Numb," "The Lady in the Van," "the Steps," and "Trumbo."
Designed to facilitate international alliances and financial partnerships, Wff’s industry Summit program presented 30 interactive sessions that addressed a range of issues affecting the film, television, and digital media industry. Overall Summit attendance was at 86% capacity with 2,530 attendees (a 13% increase over 2,231 in 2014) including 855 delegates (on par with 2014). The Whistler Summit directly connects to Wff’s slate of project development programs designed to provide creative and business immersion experiences for 42 Canadian artists including its Feature Project Lab, Praxis Screenwriters Lab, Aboriginal Filmmaker Fellowship, and Music Café. Wff also collaborates with several industry organizations by hosting specific third party initiatives at the Whistler Summit including the Women in the Director’s Chair Industry Immersion, Women in Film & Television Film Market Preparation Mentorship, and the Mppia Short Film Award Pitch with the Motion Picture Production Industry Association and Creative BC. In addition to the
204 scheduled meetings (a 10% increase over 186 in 2014) that took place during the Summit, there was again a notable increase in unscheduled meetings that took place outside of scheduled blocks proving the festival remains an important place for the industry to meet and do business. Industry guests came from Canada, USA, UK, India, and China to participate, and included some of the top talent and executives in the business.
Film met music when Morning Show, one of the ten-featured BC artists from Wff’s Music Café, performed the live score for "He Hated Pigeons." Wff’s Music Café, which expanded to include two showcases over two days and featured five music supervisors, was well received with several deals in the works and over 526 guests in attendance.
Toronto’s first-time feature director Jamie M. Dagg’s "River" dominated Whistler prize-giving, winning for best Canadian feature, Best Director and Best Screenplay in the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature presented by the Directors Guild of Canada – British Columbia. The jury also awarded French-Canadian actor Paul Savoie with Best Performance in a Borsos Film for his performance in "The Diary of an Old Man," as well as provided honorable mention for Rossif Sutherland’s work in "River" and Laura Abramsen’s roles in "Basic human Needs" and "The Sabbatical." Lastly, Best Cinematography in a Borsos Film, presented by I.A.T.S.E. Local 669, went to cinematographer Dylan Macleod for "He Hated Pigeons," directed by Ingrid Veninger. The Borsos Jury was comprised of three accomplished film industry artists that included the highly versatile director and screenwriter and WFF15 Alumni Carl Bessai ("Rehearsal), beloved actor and director Marc-André Grondin , and award-winning producer extraordinaire, Kim McCraw.
Other Whistler award winners included "Last Harvest" by first-time female director Hui (Jane) Wang that won the World Documentary Award presented by Tribute.ca with honorable mention for Brian D. Johnson’s "Al Purdy Was Here." The Best Mountain Culture Film presented by Whistler Blackcomb went to Anthony Bonello’s "Eclipse." The Canadian ShortWork Award went to "Withheld" directed by Johnathan Sousa, with an honorable mention to Amanda Strong and Bracken Hanuse Corlett’s Mia’. The International ShortWork Award was awarded to "Dissonance" by Germany filmmaker Till Nowak, with Langara College’s Canadian ShortWork Award for Best Screenplay given to Jem Garrard’s "The World Who Came to Dinner." Emily Carr University of Art and Design’s Lawrence Lam won the ShortWork Student Award presented by Capilano University Film Centre for "The Blue Jet," and Maja Aro won the Mppia Short Film Award for "Hoods" presented by Mppia and Creative BC, which consists of a $15,000 cash award plus up to $100,000 in services. The Alliance of Women Film Journalists (Awfj) Eda Awards gave Best Female-Directed Narrative Feature to Valerie Weiss’ "A Light Beneath Their Feet," Best Female-Directed Documentary to Hui (Jane) Wang’s "Last Harvest," with a special mention for Brian D. Johnson’s "Al Purdy Was Here." In addition, Céline Devaux’s "Sunday Lunch" took home the Best Female-Directed Short Award.
Receiving Wff’s Trailblazer Award and Tribute presented by Pandora, British-born Canadian actor, film producer, and film director Kiefer Sutherland discussed his extensive acting career spanning film, stage and television, with CTV Film Critic Jim Gordon , followed by the Western Canadian Premiere of his latest film, "Forsaken." Scottish-born Robert Carlyle , one of the most recognizable actors today, graced the Festival’s red carpet at this year’s Spotlight event as Wff’s Maverick Award honoree and sat down with Jim Gordon to discuss his bold choices that have led to the creation of some of the most dynamic, memorable, and beloved characters of our time before the North American Premiere of his directorial debut, "The Legend the Barny Thomson." One of Canada's hardest working and most accomplished character actors, Bruce Greenwood was the recipient of Wff’s Career Achievement Award, at the World Premiere of his latest film "Rehearsal," directed by admired Wff Alumni Carl Bessai.
The Whistler Film Festival proudly hosted the Variety 10 Screenwriters to Watch for the fourth consecutive year hosted by Variety Vice President and Executive Editor, Steven Gaydos . This year’s slate of screenwriters in attendance included Bryan Sipe ("Demolition"), John Scott III ("Maggie"), Meg LeFauve ("Inside Out"), Mike Le ("Patient Zero"), and Emma Donoghue ("Room"), who also delivered a Master Class for the Wff Praxis Screenwriters Lab participants.
To top it all off, Lauren Lee Smith ("How to Plan an Orgy in a Small Town"), Jakob Davies ("The Birdwatcher"), Taylor Russell and Rustin Gresiuk ("Suspension") were recognized as Wff’s Rising Stars sponsored by Ubcp/Actra at this year’s Keynote Filmmaker Luncheon presented by Pacific Northwest Pictures, and all had films premiering at the fest.
Over 400 guests attended the fest with other notable talent in attendance with films premiering at the fest including: actor Rossif Sutherland ("River"), director Jon Cassar ("Forsaken"), actor Callum Keith Rennie ("Born to Be Blue"), director/writer Sandy Wilson ("My American Cousin), actors Aleks Paunovic, Stefanie von Pfetten, Marie Avgeropoulos and Colin Cunningham ("Numb"), actors Chelah Horsdal and Alex Zahara ("Patterson's Wager"), actor Sage Brocklebank ("Suspension"), actors Gabrielle Rose and Camille Sullivan ("The Birdwatcher"), actor Rebecca Dalton ("The Colossal Failure of the Modern Relationship"), actor Paul Savoie ("The Diary of an Old Man"), director and founder of the Toronto Film Critics Association Brian D. Johnson ("Al Purdy Was Here"), director and co-founder of World Elephant Day Patricia Sims and co-director Michael Clark ("When Elephants Were Young"), "The Steps" director Andrew Currie and actor Steven McCarthy , and award-winning directors Philippe Lesage ("The Demons") and Ricardo Trogi ("The Miracle"). Veteran director Bruce McDonald attended as a mentor of the Wff Praxis Screenwriters Lab, as well as Canadian actress, writer, filmmaker, comedian, and social activist Mary Walsh , who participated in the Women In The Director’s Chair program and got a standing ovation as Wff’s Keynote Speaker at the Filmmaker Luncheon.
The Whistler Film Festival’s Pandora Audience Award went to British-American romantic drama "Carol," directed by Todd Haynes from the screenplay by Phyllis Nagy (Variety 10 Screenwriters to Watch class of 2014) starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, which received its Canadian premiere at Whistler. The Wff Audience Award runner-ups were "The Legend of Barney Thomson," character-actor Robert Carlyle's first theatrical feature and directorial debut, which received its North American premiere at the festival, followed by Ricardo Trogi’s mid-life crisis dramedy, Quebec film "Le Mirage," the highest grossing and most popular Canadian film of the year so far. The Wff Audience Award is a non-cash prize presented to the highest-rated film as voted by the audience.
Paul Gratton, Director of Programming had this to say about this year’s event: "We were very fortunate to open this year's fest with the Canadian premiere of "Carol," a film we are convinced will be a major contender in this year's awards season race. The festival took off from there, with many sold out screenings, packed and newsworthy industry sessions, and over 450 guests who made a point of trekking out to beautiful Whistler to support their films and talk business with the high-level movers and shakers also in attendance. 2015 represented another step forward towards making Wff the coolest festival in the world. Can't wait 'til next year.”
Total attendance for this year’s fest was 13,233 attendees (a 18% increase over 11,273 in 2014) . This included 7,740 film-screening attendees and 3,533 special event attendees (Signature Series, Music Café, ShortWork Showcase, R-Rated Party, Awards Brunch, L’Oreal Men Expert Bobsleigh Race and Celebrity Challenge Ski Race), in addition to 2,530 Summit attendees. Several of the feature films were at or near capacity, including: "Born to be Blue," "Chasing Bansky," "Forsaken," "How to Plan and Orgy in a Small Town," "Legend,""Legend of Barney Thomson," "Numb," "The Lady in the Van," "the Steps," and "Trumbo."
Designed to facilitate international alliances and financial partnerships, Wff’s industry Summit program presented 30 interactive sessions that addressed a range of issues affecting the film, television, and digital media industry. Overall Summit attendance was at 86% capacity with 2,530 attendees (a 13% increase over 2,231 in 2014) including 855 delegates (on par with 2014). The Whistler Summit directly connects to Wff’s slate of project development programs designed to provide creative and business immersion experiences for 42 Canadian artists including its Feature Project Lab, Praxis Screenwriters Lab, Aboriginal Filmmaker Fellowship, and Music Café. Wff also collaborates with several industry organizations by hosting specific third party initiatives at the Whistler Summit including the Women in the Director’s Chair Industry Immersion, Women in Film & Television Film Market Preparation Mentorship, and the Mppia Short Film Award Pitch with the Motion Picture Production Industry Association and Creative BC. In addition to the
204 scheduled meetings (a 10% increase over 186 in 2014) that took place during the Summit, there was again a notable increase in unscheduled meetings that took place outside of scheduled blocks proving the festival remains an important place for the industry to meet and do business. Industry guests came from Canada, USA, UK, India, and China to participate, and included some of the top talent and executives in the business.
Film met music when Morning Show, one of the ten-featured BC artists from Wff’s Music Café, performed the live score for "He Hated Pigeons." Wff’s Music Café, which expanded to include two showcases over two days and featured five music supervisors, was well received with several deals in the works and over 526 guests in attendance.
Toronto’s first-time feature director Jamie M. Dagg’s "River" dominated Whistler prize-giving, winning for best Canadian feature, Best Director and Best Screenplay in the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature presented by the Directors Guild of Canada – British Columbia. The jury also awarded French-Canadian actor Paul Savoie with Best Performance in a Borsos Film for his performance in "The Diary of an Old Man," as well as provided honorable mention for Rossif Sutherland’s work in "River" and Laura Abramsen’s roles in "Basic human Needs" and "The Sabbatical." Lastly, Best Cinematography in a Borsos Film, presented by I.A.T.S.E. Local 669, went to cinematographer Dylan Macleod for "He Hated Pigeons," directed by Ingrid Veninger. The Borsos Jury was comprised of three accomplished film industry artists that included the highly versatile director and screenwriter and WFF15 Alumni Carl Bessai ("Rehearsal), beloved actor and director Marc-André Grondin , and award-winning producer extraordinaire, Kim McCraw.
Other Whistler award winners included "Last Harvest" by first-time female director Hui (Jane) Wang that won the World Documentary Award presented by Tribute.ca with honorable mention for Brian D. Johnson’s "Al Purdy Was Here." The Best Mountain Culture Film presented by Whistler Blackcomb went to Anthony Bonello’s "Eclipse." The Canadian ShortWork Award went to "Withheld" directed by Johnathan Sousa, with an honorable mention to Amanda Strong and Bracken Hanuse Corlett’s Mia’. The International ShortWork Award was awarded to "Dissonance" by Germany filmmaker Till Nowak, with Langara College’s Canadian ShortWork Award for Best Screenplay given to Jem Garrard’s "The World Who Came to Dinner." Emily Carr University of Art and Design’s Lawrence Lam won the ShortWork Student Award presented by Capilano University Film Centre for "The Blue Jet," and Maja Aro won the Mppia Short Film Award for "Hoods" presented by Mppia and Creative BC, which consists of a $15,000 cash award plus up to $100,000 in services. The Alliance of Women Film Journalists (Awfj) Eda Awards gave Best Female-Directed Narrative Feature to Valerie Weiss’ "A Light Beneath Their Feet," Best Female-Directed Documentary to Hui (Jane) Wang’s "Last Harvest," with a special mention for Brian D. Johnson’s "Al Purdy Was Here." In addition, Céline Devaux’s "Sunday Lunch" took home the Best Female-Directed Short Award.
Receiving Wff’s Trailblazer Award and Tribute presented by Pandora, British-born Canadian actor, film producer, and film director Kiefer Sutherland discussed his extensive acting career spanning film, stage and television, with CTV Film Critic Jim Gordon , followed by the Western Canadian Premiere of his latest film, "Forsaken." Scottish-born Robert Carlyle , one of the most recognizable actors today, graced the Festival’s red carpet at this year’s Spotlight event as Wff’s Maverick Award honoree and sat down with Jim Gordon to discuss his bold choices that have led to the creation of some of the most dynamic, memorable, and beloved characters of our time before the North American Premiere of his directorial debut, "The Legend the Barny Thomson." One of Canada's hardest working and most accomplished character actors, Bruce Greenwood was the recipient of Wff’s Career Achievement Award, at the World Premiere of his latest film "Rehearsal," directed by admired Wff Alumni Carl Bessai.
The Whistler Film Festival proudly hosted the Variety 10 Screenwriters to Watch for the fourth consecutive year hosted by Variety Vice President and Executive Editor, Steven Gaydos . This year’s slate of screenwriters in attendance included Bryan Sipe ("Demolition"), John Scott III ("Maggie"), Meg LeFauve ("Inside Out"), Mike Le ("Patient Zero"), and Emma Donoghue ("Room"), who also delivered a Master Class for the Wff Praxis Screenwriters Lab participants.
To top it all off, Lauren Lee Smith ("How to Plan an Orgy in a Small Town"), Jakob Davies ("The Birdwatcher"), Taylor Russell and Rustin Gresiuk ("Suspension") were recognized as Wff’s Rising Stars sponsored by Ubcp/Actra at this year’s Keynote Filmmaker Luncheon presented by Pacific Northwest Pictures, and all had films premiering at the fest.
Over 400 guests attended the fest with other notable talent in attendance with films premiering at the fest including: actor Rossif Sutherland ("River"), director Jon Cassar ("Forsaken"), actor Callum Keith Rennie ("Born to Be Blue"), director/writer Sandy Wilson ("My American Cousin), actors Aleks Paunovic, Stefanie von Pfetten, Marie Avgeropoulos and Colin Cunningham ("Numb"), actors Chelah Horsdal and Alex Zahara ("Patterson's Wager"), actor Sage Brocklebank ("Suspension"), actors Gabrielle Rose and Camille Sullivan ("The Birdwatcher"), actor Rebecca Dalton ("The Colossal Failure of the Modern Relationship"), actor Paul Savoie ("The Diary of an Old Man"), director and founder of the Toronto Film Critics Association Brian D. Johnson ("Al Purdy Was Here"), director and co-founder of World Elephant Day Patricia Sims and co-director Michael Clark ("When Elephants Were Young"), "The Steps" director Andrew Currie and actor Steven McCarthy , and award-winning directors Philippe Lesage ("The Demons") and Ricardo Trogi ("The Miracle"). Veteran director Bruce McDonald attended as a mentor of the Wff Praxis Screenwriters Lab, as well as Canadian actress, writer, filmmaker, comedian, and social activist Mary Walsh , who participated in the Women In The Director’s Chair program and got a standing ovation as Wff’s Keynote Speaker at the Filmmaker Luncheon.
- 12/9/2015
- by Peter Belsito
- Sydney's Buzz
For a few years now, a chorus of individuals, myself included, have been calling the Whistler Film Festival the "Sundance of the North." The festival has always featured an impressive line-up of Canadian titles and the Borsos Competition for Best Canadian Feature has always attracted a high calibre of Canadian film but this year's Canadian features line-up features no less that 22 home grown titles, 11 of which are world premieres.
Among this year's notable titles are the world premieres of Sean Garrity's follow up to Blood Pressure (review) After the Ball, Carl Bessai's blaxploitation homage Bad City, Sophie Deraspe's Wolves, Cameron Labine's [Continued ...]...
Among this year's notable titles are the world premieres of Sean Garrity's follow up to Blood Pressure (review) After the Ball, Carl Bessai's blaxploitation homage Bad City, Sophie Deraspe's Wolves, Cameron Labine's [Continued ...]...
- 10/27/2014
- QuietEarth.us
European Film Promotion (Efp) has launched a new initiative, Producers Lab Hamburg (Plh), bringing producers from across Europe to meet with their Hamburg-based opposite numbers.
The event’s two-day programme (Oct 1-2) during this year’s Filmfest Hamburg will include seminars, pitching sessions, one-to-one meetings and a Hamburg location tour.
The ten European producers coming to Hamburg are drawn from the pool of Efp’s former Producers on the Move, including the UK’s Isabelle Stead (Human Films), Luxembourg’s Donata Rotunno (Tarantula), Norway’s Silje Hopland Eik (Cinenord Kidstory) and Spain’s Antonio Saura (Zampa Audiovisual).
Stead will be coming to Hamburg after having taken part in the fifth edition of the Producers Lab Toronto, while Rotunno is now developing Yilmaz Arslan’s new project Raqs after producing his last film Fratricide and is also looking for German partners for his own third feature film Sara Sarà.
Eik has produced and co-produced more than 20 feature films and...
The event’s two-day programme (Oct 1-2) during this year’s Filmfest Hamburg will include seminars, pitching sessions, one-to-one meetings and a Hamburg location tour.
The ten European producers coming to Hamburg are drawn from the pool of Efp’s former Producers on the Move, including the UK’s Isabelle Stead (Human Films), Luxembourg’s Donata Rotunno (Tarantula), Norway’s Silje Hopland Eik (Cinenord Kidstory) and Spain’s Antonio Saura (Zampa Audiovisual).
Stead will be coming to Hamburg after having taken part in the fifth edition of the Producers Lab Toronto, while Rotunno is now developing Yilmaz Arslan’s new project Raqs after producing his last film Fratricide and is also looking for German partners for his own third feature film Sara Sarà.
Eik has produced and co-produced more than 20 feature films and...
- 8/28/2014
- by screen.berlin@googlemail.com (Martin Blaney)
- ScreenDaily
Take another look @ footage and revealing images from director Anne Goursaud's restored 1995 horror feature "Embrace Of The Vampire", starring Alyssa Milano, available on Blu-ray from Anchor Bay Entertainment.
The film was released alongside director Carl Bessai's 2013 "Embrace Of The Vampire" update, also available on Blu-ray.
Goursaud's original feature stars Milano, Martin Kemp, Jennifer Tilly and Charlotte Lewis:
"...'Charlotte' (Milano) is a beautiful college freshman nearing her 18th birthday.
"Charlotte's boyfriend 'Chris' would like to take their relationship to the next level, but Charlotte isn't sure if she's ready.
"Meanwhile, Charlotte finds herself aggressively pursued by a mysterious new suitor (Kemp). What Charlotte doesn't know is that she's the reincarnation of a Transylvanian princess ... "
Bessai's "Embrace of the Vampire", available from Anchor Bay Films in a Blu-ray and DVD combo pack October 15, 2013, stars Sharon Hinnendael, Victor Webster, C.C. Sheffield, Tiio Horn and Robert Moloney:
"...'Charlotte' (Hinnendale) is...
The film was released alongside director Carl Bessai's 2013 "Embrace Of The Vampire" update, also available on Blu-ray.
Goursaud's original feature stars Milano, Martin Kemp, Jennifer Tilly and Charlotte Lewis:
"...'Charlotte' (Milano) is a beautiful college freshman nearing her 18th birthday.
"Charlotte's boyfriend 'Chris' would like to take their relationship to the next level, but Charlotte isn't sure if she's ready.
"Meanwhile, Charlotte finds herself aggressively pursued by a mysterious new suitor (Kemp). What Charlotte doesn't know is that she's the reincarnation of a Transylvanian princess ... "
Bessai's "Embrace of the Vampire", available from Anchor Bay Films in a Blu-ray and DVD combo pack October 15, 2013, stars Sharon Hinnendael, Victor Webster, C.C. Sheffield, Tiio Horn and Robert Moloney:
"...'Charlotte' (Hinnendale) is...
- 2/13/2014
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Welcome to “Generic Top-Tier University,” where everyone looks like an Abercrombie & Fitch model, sexual intercourse is best had with dormitory doors wide open, cunnilingus is apparently part of the curriculum, and every girl’s first time drinking ends with the mandatory lesbionic adventure. Oh, yeah, and since this movie is titled Embrace Of The Vampire, there’s some neck biting and blood sucking, but that action doesn’t kick in until an hour and four minutes in – leaving plenty of time for this direct-to-video remake to focus on the important things. You know, exploitative tits and ass! Is it just me, or are all of these sexy vampire stories becoming increasingly more repetitive?
Charlotte (Sharon Hinnendael) is an innocent, goodie-goodie kind of girl, transferring from an all-girls Catholic school to a typical co-ed college. Coming over with a full fencing scholarship, Charlotte meets her new coach/professor Mr. Cole (Victor Webster...
Charlotte (Sharon Hinnendael) is an innocent, goodie-goodie kind of girl, transferring from an all-girls Catholic school to a typical co-ed college. Coming over with a full fencing scholarship, Charlotte meets her new coach/professor Mr. Cole (Victor Webster...
- 10/28/2013
- by Matt Donato
- We Got This Covered
Title: Embrace of the Vampire Director: Carl Bessai Starring: Sharon Hinnendael, Kaniehtiio Horn, C.C. Sheffield, Victor Webster, Ryan Kennedy, Keegan Connor Tracy Running time: 91 minutes, Unrated, Also available on DVD, Release date 10/15 Special Features: None Charlotte (Sharon Hinnendael), a sheltered convent raised orphan is given a scholarship at a small co-ed university. She is intimidated by her sexually open, but kind roommate Nicole (Kaniehtiio Horn) and her slutty bully best friend Eliza (C.C. Sheffield). Charlotte excels in fencing and wins favor with the new coach Professor Cole (Victor Webster), much to the dismay of her fellow classmates who subject her to an evening of hazing by forcing her [ Read More ]
The post Embrace of the Vampire Blu-ray Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
The post Embrace of the Vampire Blu-ray Review appeared first on Shockya.com.
- 10/16/2013
- by juliana
- ShockYa
Sneak Peek footage and images from director Anne Goursaud's restored 1995 horror feature "Embrace Of The Vampire", starring Alyssa Milano, now available for the first time on Blu-ray from Anchor Bay Entertainment.
The film will be released alongside director Carl Bessai's 2013 "Embrace Of The Vampire" update, also available on Blu-ray, October 15, 2013 :
Goursaud's original feature stars Milano, Martin Kemp, Jennifer Tilly and Charlotte Lewis:
"...'Charlotte' (Milano) is a beautiful college freshman nearing her 18th birthday.
"Charlotte's boyfriend 'Chris' would like to take their relationship to the next level, but Charlotte isn't sure if she's ready.
"Meanwhile, Charlotte finds herself aggressively pursued by a mysterious new suitor (Kemp). What Charlotte doesn't know is that she's the reincarnation of a Transylvanian princess ... "
Bessai's "Embrace of the Vampire", available from Anchor Bay Films in a Blu-ray and DVD combo pack October 15, 2013, stars Sharon Hinnendael, Victor Webster, C.C. Sheffield, Tiio Horn and...
The film will be released alongside director Carl Bessai's 2013 "Embrace Of The Vampire" update, also available on Blu-ray, October 15, 2013 :
Goursaud's original feature stars Milano, Martin Kemp, Jennifer Tilly and Charlotte Lewis:
"...'Charlotte' (Milano) is a beautiful college freshman nearing her 18th birthday.
"Charlotte's boyfriend 'Chris' would like to take their relationship to the next level, but Charlotte isn't sure if she's ready.
"Meanwhile, Charlotte finds herself aggressively pursued by a mysterious new suitor (Kemp). What Charlotte doesn't know is that she's the reincarnation of a Transylvanian princess ... "
Bessai's "Embrace of the Vampire", available from Anchor Bay Films in a Blu-ray and DVD combo pack October 15, 2013, stars Sharon Hinnendael, Victor Webster, C.C. Sheffield, Tiio Horn and...
- 10/12/2013
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Sneak Peek director Carl Bessai's 2013 horror feature, "Embrace of the Vampire", available from Anchor Bay Films in a Blu-ray and DVD combo pack October 15, 2013, starring Sharon Hinnendael, Victor Webster, C.C. Sheffield, Tiio Horn and Robert Moloney:
"...'Charlotte' (Hinnendale) is a timid and sheltered teen who has just left an all-girls Catholic school for a new life at a co-ed university.
"But an ancient evil has followed her, tormenting her with disturbing nightmares and tempting her with forbidden desires.
"It is a hunger that can only be satiated by sensual pleasures of the flesh…and a thirst for blood. It’s a battle for her soul…and one she’s losing. But Charlotte is a fighter..."
Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek "Embrace Of The Vampire"...
"...'Charlotte' (Hinnendale) is a timid and sheltered teen who has just left an all-girls Catholic school for a new life at a co-ed university.
"But an ancient evil has followed her, tormenting her with disturbing nightmares and tempting her with forbidden desires.
"It is a hunger that can only be satiated by sensual pleasures of the flesh…and a thirst for blood. It’s a battle for her soul…and one she’s losing. But Charlotte is a fighter..."
Click the images to enlarge and Sneak Peek "Embrace Of The Vampire"...
- 10/7/2013
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Hitting iTunes, Xbox and Vudu over in the Us this Friday is Carl Bessai's remake of lusting lesbian blood lover horror flick 'Embrace of the Vampire'. The gorgeous Sharon Hinnendael has appeared once more in another trio of new and exclusive stills from the project, courtesy of Arrow in the Head. Kaniehtiio Horn, C.C. Sheffield, Chelsey Reist, Victor Webster, Robert Moloney, Ryan Kennedy and Keegan Connor Tracy ('Bates Motel') also star and following its digital release the redo will land on Blu-ray/DVD Combo Pack, DVD and On Demand on 15 October. Check out the new stills below....
- 10/1/2013
- Horror Asylum
A batch of new 'Embrace of the Vampire' stills have been released featuring star Sharon Hinnendael. The Carl Bessai helmed remake is based on the sexually charged vampire horror from 1995 which starred Alyssa Milano. The project comes from co-exec producer Christa Campbell ('Drive Angry', 'Spiders') and also stars Kaniehtiio Horn, C.C. Sheffield, Chelsey Reist, Victor Webster, Robert Moloney, Ryan Kennedy and Keegan Connor Tracy ('Bates Motel'). The redo is set to arrive on VOD, DVD and Blu-ray on 15 October courtesy of Anchor Bay. Head below to check out the new trio of images revealed exclusively by Styd....
- 9/26/2013
- Horror Asylum
At some point in the creation of Carl Bessai’s Sisters & Brothers, someone (probably Bessai) chose to give the film’s visuals a comic book aesthetic without it ever becoming clear how that was in any way relevant to the subject matter at hand. It’s the first of many tonally inconsistent factors that make Sisters & Brothers such a mess, but when compared to the lackluster writing that feels like something a film school student should have rewritten half a dozen times more before committing it to screen, it’s clearly not the film’s biggest problem. The film’s only strength is a few talented actors thrown into a mix with others that can barely emote at all (Glee's Cory Monteith) or who are the epitome of over acting (Gabrielle Rose), but all of them are wasted on a film that can’t decide what it wants to be.
- 9/23/2013
- by Lex Walker
- JustPressPlay.net
Getty
Source: CBC
Before his sudden death this weekend, "Glee" star Cory Monteith had been eager to show a more mature side of himself in a new Canadian film, according to the director of the project.
"I'd only seen him a few weeks ago," filmmaker Gia Milani, who directed Monteith in the as-yet-unreleased drama "All The Wrong Reasons," told CBC News Monday morning.
"[His death] is a shock, and the word shock doesn't seem deep enough. I'm floored." The Calgary-born actor was found dead in his Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel room in Vancouver midday on Saturday. He was 31. Acting Police Chief Doug LePard said there was no indication of foul play, and "the cause of death was not immediately apparent."
Monteith's body was found by hotel staff after he missed his check-out time, LePard said. Whether there will be autopsy was expected to be decided today. "We do not have a great...
Source: CBC
Before his sudden death this weekend, "Glee" star Cory Monteith had been eager to show a more mature side of himself in a new Canadian film, according to the director of the project.
"I'd only seen him a few weeks ago," filmmaker Gia Milani, who directed Monteith in the as-yet-unreleased drama "All The Wrong Reasons," told CBC News Monday morning.
"[His death] is a shock, and the word shock doesn't seem deep enough. I'm floored." The Calgary-born actor was found dead in his Fairmont Pacific Rim Hotel room in Vancouver midday on Saturday. He was 31. Acting Police Chief Doug LePard said there was no indication of foul play, and "the cause of death was not immediately apparent."
Monteith's body was found by hotel staff after he missed his check-out time, LePard said. Whether there will be autopsy was expected to be decided today. "We do not have a great...
- 7/15/2013
- by Moviefone Staff
- Moviefone
Cory Monteith dead at 31: Glee actor found dead in Vancouver hotel room Cory Monteith, best known as the character Finn Hudson in the television series Glee, was found dead at a Vancouver hotel earlier today, July 13. The Canadian-born Monteith (Calgary, on May 11, 1982) was 31. As reported on CNN, police say the cause of death is unclear, but the possibility of foul play seems to have been discarded. Cory Monteith had an unspecified drug-addiction problem, and entered rehab last April. In one interview, Monteith said he had begun using drugs at age 13. Cory Monteith movies According to the IMDb, Cory Monteith’s movie career included only 11 features, two of which currently in post-production. His first film credits date from 2006: small roles in John Whitesell’s comedy Deck the Halls, starring Danny DeVito, Matthew Broderick, and Kristin Davis; Richard Valentine’s horror thriller Bloody Mary; and James Wong’s horror mystery Final Destination 3,...
- 7/14/2013
- by Andre Soares
- Alt Film Guide
Stars: Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, Alexia Fast, Gabrielle Rose, Benjamin Ratner | Written by Arne Olsen | Directed by Carl Bessai
A Groundhog Day-esque action drama, Repeaters is one of those films that will fly under the radar of many despite its impressive pedigree. Penned by Arne Olsen, who has one hell of a writing CV having worked on Red Scorpion, Cop and a Half and Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie amongst many others, the film follows three troubled youths – Kyle, Sonia and Mike – at a drug-rehab center who, following an electric shock, end up repeating the same day over and over again. The trio quickly embrace their new gift, having all the fun they could ever want which includes committing crimes without any fear of reprisals. However once the fun starts to get a little too dangerous Kyle and Sonia decide they want to use their “gift” to help people,...
A Groundhog Day-esque action drama, Repeaters is one of those films that will fly under the radar of many despite its impressive pedigree. Penned by Arne Olsen, who has one hell of a writing CV having worked on Red Scorpion, Cop and a Half and Mighty Morphin Power Rangers: The Movie amongst many others, the film follows three troubled youths – Kyle, Sonia and Mike – at a drug-rehab center who, following an electric shock, end up repeating the same day over and over again. The trio quickly embrace their new gift, having all the fun they could ever want which includes committing crimes without any fear of reprisals. However once the fun starts to get a little too dangerous Kyle and Sonia decide they want to use their “gift” to help people,...
- 4/4/2013
- by Phil Wheat
- Nerdly
Ever get that 'been there, done that' feeling? You're gonna get it all over again with this next look at Repeaters. Ever get that 'been there, done that' feeling? You're gonna get it all over again with this next look at Repeaters. Ever get that 'been there, done tha' feeling? You're gonna get it all over again with this next look at Repeaters. Ever get that 'been there, done that' feeling? You're gonna get it all over again with this next look at Repeaters.
The flick, directed by Carl Bessai, stars Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, and Benjamin Ratner.
Synopsis
A gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the preceding one.
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Repeat yourself in the comments section below!
The flick, directed by Carl Bessai, stars Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, and Benjamin Ratner.
Synopsis
A gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the preceding one.
Visit The Evilshop @ Amazon!
Got news? Click here to submit it!
Repeat yourself in the comments section below!
- 11/7/2011
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
Alliance Films is taking the Groundhog Day route with a new horror thriller by the name of Repeaters, directed by Carl Bessai and starring Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, and Benjamin Ratner. Check out the trailer above and some new still inside that come out of Afm. The Canadian film is described as "a gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the preceding one." Dig on the trailer below. Release info when is comes available. More in the coming weeks.
- 11/7/2011
- bloody-disgusting.com
Well Day 4 started off all kinds of Amazing!!!
I was able to have brunch with "Glee" star Cory Monteith, Dustin Milligan from Shark Night 3D and director Carl Bessai. The actors and director are here promoting Sisters and Brothers. There was food in front of us but there was no time to eat. We were busy chatting about Carl’s movie and how Cory was determined to be a part of the flick. He was only able to shoot for one day and Carl made it happen. After the brunch the boys had a photo shoot to head to so we agreed to meet up at the Tastemaker's Lounge at the Intercontinental.
For more on Day 4...read on!
I was able to have brunch with "Glee" star Cory Monteith, Dustin Milligan from Shark Night 3D and director Carl Bessai. The actors and director are here promoting Sisters and Brothers. There was food in front of us but there was no time to eat. We were busy chatting about Carl’s movie and how Cory was determined to be a part of the flick. He was only able to shoot for one day and Carl made it happen. After the brunch the boys had a photo shoot to head to so we agreed to meet up at the Tastemaker's Lounge at the Intercontinental.
For more on Day 4...read on!
- 9/12/2011
- by Taylor Kaye
- Cineplex
Filed under: Celebrity Interviews, The Twilight Saga, Moviefone Canada
You know her as Emily, Sam's beautifully scarred fiancee in the 'Twilight' movies, but you probably wouldn't recognize Tinsel Korey walking down the street. While her 'Twilight' co-stars are constantly fawned over by diehard fans, Korey says that she can walk around incognito, since her character is somewhat disguised by the bangs and the scar.
Beyond 'Twilight,' Korey is best known as an indie movie queen. She garnered accolades for her role as Blue Girl in Carl Bessai's 'Unnatural & Accidental.' She's poised to wow audiences again in 'Stained,' which is being released on DVD on Aug. 30. This time around, she channels her inner dark side to play a schizophrenic serial killer.
Despite all of her serious roles, Korey is actually quite a goofball. She'll have a chance to showcase her silly side in the upcoming flick 'Fishing Naked,...
You know her as Emily, Sam's beautifully scarred fiancee in the 'Twilight' movies, but you probably wouldn't recognize Tinsel Korey walking down the street. While her 'Twilight' co-stars are constantly fawned over by diehard fans, Korey says that she can walk around incognito, since her character is somewhat disguised by the bangs and the scar.
Beyond 'Twilight,' Korey is best known as an indie movie queen. She garnered accolades for her role as Blue Girl in Carl Bessai's 'Unnatural & Accidental.' She's poised to wow audiences again in 'Stained,' which is being released on DVD on Aug. 30. This time around, she channels her inner dark side to play a schizophrenic serial killer.
Despite all of her serious roles, Korey is actually quite a goofball. She'll have a chance to showcase her silly side in the upcoming flick 'Fishing Naked,...
- 8/29/2011
- by Annette Bourdeau
- Moviefone
By Sean O’Connell
Hollywoodnews.com: Brad Pitt, Keira Knightley, George Clooney, Carey Mulligan, Rachel Weisz, Gerard Butler and Ryan Gosling are heading to Toronto for the 36tht international film festival, which kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 8.
The fest today confirmed the hundreds of celebrities that will be attending the can’t-miss event, promoting films and making the rounds as the annual awards season starts to take shape.
Davis Guggenheim, Francis Ford Coppola, Alexander Payne, Luc Besson, Oren Moverman, Malgoska Szumowska, Bennett Miller, Sarah Polley, Jessica Yu, Michael Winterbottom and Werner Herzog are just a few of the filmmakers who have confirmed their attendance.
Celebrities making the trek include Catherine Deneuve, Charlotte Rampling, Clive Owen, Jon Hamm, Shahid Kapoor, Michael Fassbender, Michelle Yeoh, Freida Pinto, Glenn Close, Matthew Goode, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Salma Hayek, Viggo Mortensen and Woody Harrelson. Musicians U2, Pearl Jam and Neil Young also are expected to...
Hollywoodnews.com: Brad Pitt, Keira Knightley, George Clooney, Carey Mulligan, Rachel Weisz, Gerard Butler and Ryan Gosling are heading to Toronto for the 36tht international film festival, which kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 8.
The fest today confirmed the hundreds of celebrities that will be attending the can’t-miss event, promoting films and making the rounds as the annual awards season starts to take shape.
Davis Guggenheim, Francis Ford Coppola, Alexander Payne, Luc Besson, Oren Moverman, Malgoska Szumowska, Bennett Miller, Sarah Polley, Jessica Yu, Michael Winterbottom and Werner Herzog are just a few of the filmmakers who have confirmed their attendance.
Celebrities making the trek include Catherine Deneuve, Charlotte Rampling, Clive Owen, Jon Hamm, Shahid Kapoor, Michael Fassbender, Michelle Yeoh, Freida Pinto, Glenn Close, Matthew Goode, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Salma Hayek, Viggo Mortensen and Woody Harrelson. Musicians U2, Pearl Jam and Neil Young also are expected to...
- 8/23/2011
- by Sean O'Connell
- Hollywoodnews.com
Toronto - The 36th Toronto International Film Festival® welcomes hundreds of guests this year. Filmmakers expected to present their world premieres in Toronto include: Davis Guggenheim, Francis Ford Coppola, Alexander Payne, Agnieszka Holland, Guy Maddin, Luc Besson, Bill Duke, Oren Moverman, Malgoska Szumowska, Bennett Miller, Darrell Roodt, Sarah Polley, Jessica Yu, Michael Winterbottom and Werner Herzog.
Actors expected to attend include Catherine Deneuve, Charlotte Rampling, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Clive Owen, Gerard Butler, Jeon Do-Yeon, Jon Hamm, Shahid Kapoor, Michael Fassbender, Michelle Yeoh, Freida Pinto, Glenn Close, Matthew Goode, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rachel Weisz, Ryan Gosling, Salma Hayek, Viggo Mortensen and Woody Harrelson. Musicians include: U2, Pearl Jam and Neil Young.
The Festival also welcomes thousands of producers and other industry professionals bringing films to us.
The following filmmakers are expected to attend the Toronto International Film Festival:
Adam Shaheen, Adam Wingard, Adolfo Borinaga Alix Jr., Agnieszka Holland, Akin Omotoso,...
Actors expected to attend include Catherine Deneuve, Charlotte Rampling, George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Clive Owen, Gerard Butler, Jeon Do-Yeon, Jon Hamm, Shahid Kapoor, Michael Fassbender, Michelle Yeoh, Freida Pinto, Glenn Close, Matthew Goode, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Rachel Weisz, Ryan Gosling, Salma Hayek, Viggo Mortensen and Woody Harrelson. Musicians include: U2, Pearl Jam and Neil Young.
The Festival also welcomes thousands of producers and other industry professionals bringing films to us.
The following filmmakers are expected to attend the Toronto International Film Festival:
Adam Shaheen, Adam Wingard, Adolfo Borinaga Alix Jr., Agnieszka Holland, Akin Omotoso,...
- 8/23/2011
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Sneak Peek attended the 2011 Toronto International Film Festival Canadian Press Conference @ Toronto's Fairmont Royal York, 100 Front Street West, August 9, 2011.
This year, the 36th annual Toronto International Film Festival (Tiff), runs for 10 days, from September 8 - 18, 2011.
Tiff organizers provided a celebratory mood for the early afternoon media crowd, with food stations and pastries, complimented by an open bar serving chilled Stella Artois beer and Skyy Vodka.
Tiff 2011 promises a strong lineup of Canadian features including new works by Canadian filmmakers Carl Bessai, Mike Clattenburg, Michael Dowse, Philippe Falardeau, Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald, Léa Pool, Jean-Marc Vallée and Ingrid Veninger.
"This year saw many Canadian filmmakers address a wide range of pressing social issues," said Steve Gravestock, Associate Director, Canadian Programming, Tiff.
"These include the dangers of progress, the possibility of privacy and identity in a hi-tech increasingly alienated world, teenage gambling, the difficulties of maintaining a traditional rural life, life during and after wartime,...
This year, the 36th annual Toronto International Film Festival (Tiff), runs for 10 days, from September 8 - 18, 2011.
Tiff organizers provided a celebratory mood for the early afternoon media crowd, with food stations and pastries, complimented by an open bar serving chilled Stella Artois beer and Skyy Vodka.
Tiff 2011 promises a strong lineup of Canadian features including new works by Canadian filmmakers Carl Bessai, Mike Clattenburg, Michael Dowse, Philippe Falardeau, Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald, Léa Pool, Jean-Marc Vallée and Ingrid Veninger.
"This year saw many Canadian filmmakers address a wide range of pressing social issues," said Steve Gravestock, Associate Director, Canadian Programming, Tiff.
"These include the dangers of progress, the possibility of privacy and identity in a hi-tech increasingly alienated world, teenage gambling, the difficulties of maintaining a traditional rural life, life during and after wartime,...
- 8/11/2011
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Yesterday, the Toronto International Film Festival, which will take place between September 8 and 18, unveiled the list of Canadian films that will be screened.
Galas
A Dangerous Method Director: David Cronenberg Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Michael Fassbender, Keira Knightley and Sarah Gadon
Starbuck
Director: Ken Scott
Cast: Patrick Huard, Antoine Bertrand and Patrick Labbé
Take This Waltz Director: Sarah Polley Cast: Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams and Sarah Silverman
Canada First
Marécages Director: Guy Édoin Cast: Pascale Bussières, Luc Picard, Gabriel Maillé and François Papineau
Amy George Directors: Yonah Lewis and Calvin Thomas Cast: Gabriel del Castillo Mullally, Claudia Dey, Don Kerr and Natasha Allan
Nuit #1 Director: Anne Émond Cast: Catherine de Léan and Dimitri Storoge
The Odds Directors: Simon Davidson Cast: Tyler Johnston, Calum Worthy and Julia Maxwell
The Patron Saints Directors: Melanie Shatzky and Brian M. Cassidy
Roméo Onze Director: Ivan Grbovic Cast: Ali Ammar, Joseph Bou Nassar, Eleonore Millier, May Hilal...
Galas
A Dangerous Method Director: David Cronenberg Cast: Viggo Mortensen, Michael Fassbender, Keira Knightley and Sarah Gadon
Starbuck
Director: Ken Scott
Cast: Patrick Huard, Antoine Bertrand and Patrick Labbé
Take This Waltz Director: Sarah Polley Cast: Seth Rogen, Michelle Williams and Sarah Silverman
Canada First
Marécages Director: Guy Édoin Cast: Pascale Bussières, Luc Picard, Gabriel Maillé and François Papineau
Amy George Directors: Yonah Lewis and Calvin Thomas Cast: Gabriel del Castillo Mullally, Claudia Dey, Don Kerr and Natasha Allan
Nuit #1 Director: Anne Émond Cast: Catherine de Léan and Dimitri Storoge
The Odds Directors: Simon Davidson Cast: Tyler Johnston, Calum Worthy and Julia Maxwell
The Patron Saints Directors: Melanie Shatzky and Brian M. Cassidy
Roméo Onze Director: Ivan Grbovic Cast: Ali Ammar, Joseph Bou Nassar, Eleonore Millier, May Hilal...
- 8/10/2011
- by noreply@blogger.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
A quick round of updates.
Battlestar Galactica: Blood and Chrome won't premiere until 2012. It's not really news, but this is the first time it's coming from a network source, Syfy President Dave Howe.
THR: Publisher Bigpoint has over 2 million registered players for Battlestar Galactica Online even without the TV show airing. What are your thoughts about the opportunities the online gaming space opens up for Battlestar and other TV shows current or past?
Howe: I think when you have a property like Battlestar Galactica, it’s timeless. Yet it’s great to have a TV series on air simultaneously, but it’s not necessary. Battlestar is a franchise that’s existed since the ‘80s. We took a run at it. Universal Pictures I think has a big development and potentially another movie. It’s a known franchise that will always work if you are true to its spirit and you...
Battlestar Galactica: Blood and Chrome won't premiere until 2012. It's not really news, but this is the first time it's coming from a network source, Syfy President Dave Howe.
THR: Publisher Bigpoint has over 2 million registered players for Battlestar Galactica Online even without the TV show airing. What are your thoughts about the opportunities the online gaming space opens up for Battlestar and other TV shows current or past?
Howe: I think when you have a property like Battlestar Galactica, it’s timeless. Yet it’s great to have a TV series on air simultaneously, but it’s not necessary. Battlestar is a franchise that’s existed since the ‘80s. We took a run at it. Universal Pictures I think has a big development and potentially another movie. It’s a known franchise that will always work if you are true to its spirit and you...
- 8/10/2011
- by fanshawe
- CapricaTV
Guy Maddin's Keyhole, Bruce McDonald's Hardcore Logo II, the Vincenzo Natali produced thriller 388 Arletta Ave, Jay Baruchel penned hockey comedy Goon and the latest from Jean Marc Vallee highlight the Canadian selections at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2011. The announcements come in two blocks. There's the Canada First selections highlighting fresh talent and then the pictures scattered through the main programs. And here they are:Toronto - The Toronto International Film Festival® boasts a strong lineup of Canadian features including new works by acclaimed Canadian filmmakers Carl Bessai, Mike Clattenburg, Michael Dowse, Philippe Falardeau, Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald, Léa Pool, Jean-Marc Vallée and Ingrid Veninger, and onscreen appearances by Jay Baruchel, Camilla Belle, Anupam Kher, Akshay Kumar, Mia Kirshner, Rob Lowe, Vanessa...
- 8/9/2011
- Screen Anarchy
There are a lot of Canadian films screening at the Toronto International Film Festival to be excited about, including works from our favourite filmmakers Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald,Vincenzo Natali and Jean Marc Vallee. Below is the list of films in the Canada First selections as well as other CanCon movies scattered through the main programs.
Toronto – The Toronto International Film Festival® boasts a strong lineup of Canadian features including new works by acclaimed Canadian filmmakers Carl Bessai, Mike Clattenburg, Michael Dowse, Philippe Falardeau, Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald, Léa Pool, Jean-Marc Vallée and Ingrid Veninger, and onscreen appearances by Jay Baruchel, Camilla Belle, Anupam Kher, Akshay Kumar, Mia Kirshner, Rob Lowe, Vanessa Paradis, Jason Patric, Alison Pill, Russell Peters, Isabella Rossellini, Liev Schreiber, Sean William Scott, Scott Speedman and Nick Stahl.
“This year saw many Canadian filmmakers address a wide range of pressing social issues including the dangers of progress...
Toronto – The Toronto International Film Festival® boasts a strong lineup of Canadian features including new works by acclaimed Canadian filmmakers Carl Bessai, Mike Clattenburg, Michael Dowse, Philippe Falardeau, Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald, Léa Pool, Jean-Marc Vallée and Ingrid Veninger, and onscreen appearances by Jay Baruchel, Camilla Belle, Anupam Kher, Akshay Kumar, Mia Kirshner, Rob Lowe, Vanessa Paradis, Jason Patric, Alison Pill, Russell Peters, Isabella Rossellini, Liev Schreiber, Sean William Scott, Scott Speedman and Nick Stahl.
“This year saw many Canadian filmmakers address a wide range of pressing social issues including the dangers of progress...
- 8/9/2011
- by Ricky
- SoundOnSight
The Toronto International Film Festival has announced the 25 feature films and 43 shorts that will make up the bulk of its Canadian programming. In addition to previously announced films by Canadian icons David Cronenberg and Sarah Polley, the lineup includes new works from Carl Bessai, Mike Clattenburg, Mike Dowse, Philippe Falardeau, Guy Maddin, Bruce McDonald, Léa Pool, Jean-Marc Vallée, Ingrid Veninger, and Mary Harron. For a complete list of ...
- 8/9/2011
- Indiewire
'Shark Night 3D' and '90210' star Dustin Milligan leads in new Canadian sci-fi thriller 'Repeaters'. The time-repetition flick which brings a darker twist to the classic 'Groundhog Day' style - makes you wonder why it hasn't been done sooner. Anyhoo, a new trailer for the movie has popped up and you can check it out below. Milligan is joined by the gorgeous 'Sex Drive' and 'Final Destination 3' star Amanda Crew (below) in the Carl Bessai helmed project from a script by 'All Dogs Go to Heaven 2'(!) scribe Arne Olsen. Richard de Klerk, Benjamin Ratner, Teach Grant , Alexia Fast, Anja Savcic, Michael Kopsa and Hrothgar Mathews co-star....
- 6/28/2011
- Horror Asylum
Ahhh, writing nonsensical titles for stories is the best part of the day. Alliance Films has just released the debut trailer for Repeaters which sees Carl Bessai behind the lens and stars Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, and Benjamin Ratner. Plot Synopsis: A gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the…...
- 6/28/2011
- Horrorbid
A new thriller is on the way from the Great White North showcasing what could be the most horrific Groundhog Day scenario ever. Read on for the first details and more!
Alliance Films has just released the trailer for Repeaters directed by Carl Bessai and starring Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, and Benjamin Ratner.
No word yet on when we'll be seeing this here in the States, but we'll keep our ears open.
Synopsis
A gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the preceding one.
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Alliance Films has just released the trailer for Repeaters directed by Carl Bessai and starring Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, and Benjamin Ratner.
No word yet on when we'll be seeing this here in the States, but we'll keep our ears open.
Synopsis
A gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the preceding one.
Visit The Evilshop @ Amazon!
Got news? Click here to submit it!
Mix it up in the comments section below!
- 6/28/2011
- by Uncle Creepy
- DreadCentral.com
A trailer is in for the Canadian production Repeaters , directed by Carl Bessai. Amanda Crew of Final Destination 3 and The Haunting in Connecticut stars in this riff on Groundhog Day which turns nasty. Dustin Milligan also appears in the film; you'll see him this summer in Shark Night 3D . A gritty mind-bending thriller about three twenty-somethings who find themselves in an impossible time labyrinth, where each day they awaken to the same terrifying day as the preceding one.
- 6/27/2011
- shocktillyoudrop.com
I recently had the pleasure of putting some questions to Canadian actress Ali Liebert, who I (and my long-time Boomtron followers) know best as “Nikki the bartender” from Harper’s Island. We talk about what her current projects are–hint: she has a lot!–and what it’s like working with people who have household name recognition. Read on to find out what she had to say!
Elena Nola: Since I know you from Harper’s Island, I want to start off with a few questions about that. First, simply, what was your favorite part about that series?
My favorite part was forming a friendship with the kind and lovely Elaine Cassidy (Abby Mills). We still hang out whenever I’m in La. Also working with my old friend Ben Cotton was fabulous. Friendships are always the best part of any show. In terms of the actual filming process, shooting...
Elena Nola: Since I know you from Harper’s Island, I want to start off with a few questions about that. First, simply, what was your favorite part about that series?
My favorite part was forming a friendship with the kind and lovely Elaine Cassidy (Abby Mills). We still hang out whenever I’m in La. Also working with my old friend Ben Cotton was fabulous. Friendships are always the best part of any show. In terms of the actual filming process, shooting...
- 5/16/2011
- by Elena Nola
- Boomtron
All right, a couple of interviews and a sneak peek before the date with the Cylon Bunny. Hope everyone has a great Easter weekend!
Eric Stoltz talked to The Orange County Register about Fort McCoy, which will be screened at the Newport Beach festival next week (April 30). Here is what he said:
"I read the script and I thought it was a very well-written and interesting and compelling true story," said Stoltz, 49. "I enjoy playing roles based on real people. As a producer, I suggest things to the directors – cuts, shots, casting, notes. We got permission from the Department of Defense to shoot at an authentic Army base. I thought that was pretty cool, because they don't always do that."
Stoltz plans to attend the screening on April 30 and stick around for the question-and-answer session afterward. "I love film festivals, because the people who come to them are the people interested in supporting the arts,...
Eric Stoltz talked to The Orange County Register about Fort McCoy, which will be screened at the Newport Beach festival next week (April 30). Here is what he said:
"I read the script and I thought it was a very well-written and interesting and compelling true story," said Stoltz, 49. "I enjoy playing roles based on real people. As a producer, I suggest things to the directors – cuts, shots, casting, notes. We got permission from the Department of Defense to shoot at an authentic Army base. I thought that was pretty cool, because they don't always do that."
Stoltz plans to attend the screening on April 30 and stick around for the question-and-answer session afterward. "I love film festivals, because the people who come to them are the people interested in supporting the arts,...
- 4/23/2011
- by fanshawe
- CapricaTV
Carl Bessai's Repeaters will be released in select Canadian theatres on April 22 after a presence at the latest Vancouver International Film Festival.
The story revolves around drug addicts at a rehab centre who fight their inner demons and live the same day over and over again. While each have some degree of volition and are able to use this day to play out fantasies seemingly with no long term consequences, none has power to change the truth that tomorrow will be the same as yesterday. Ultimately, all are forced to make choices that will affect not only their lives but the lives of everyone around them.
The film stars Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, Benjamin Ratner, Gabrielle Rose, Teach Grant, Anja Savcic and Emily Perkins.
The story revolves around drug addicts at a rehab centre who fight their inner demons and live the same day over and over again. While each have some degree of volition and are able to use this day to play out fantasies seemingly with no long term consequences, none has power to change the truth that tomorrow will be the same as yesterday. Ultimately, all are forced to make choices that will affect not only their lives but the lives of everyone around them.
The film stars Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew, Richard de Klerk, Benjamin Ratner, Gabrielle Rose, Teach Grant, Anja Savcic and Emily Perkins.
- 4/15/2011
- by anhkhoido@gmail.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
Canadian actors who move South of the border to kick start their careers are a dime a dozen. Rachel McAdams, Mike Meyers, Michael J. Fox, Ryan Gosling, Sandra Oh - the list is endless. Newcomer, and fellow Canuck Richard de Klerk, who's worked with Canadian director Carl Bessai twice in "Repeaters" and "Cole," is following in their footsteps, while at the same time staking out an career as a producer, ...
- 11/12/2010
- indieWIRE - People
Canadian actors who move South of the border to kick start their careers are a dime a dozen. Rachel McAdams, Mike Meyers, Michael J. Fox, Ryan Gosling, Sandra Oh - the list is endless. Newcomer, and fellow Canuck Richard de Klerk, who's worked with Canadian director Carl Bessai twice in "Repeaters" and "Cole," is following in their footsteps, while at the same time staking out an career as a producer, ...
- 11/12/2010
- Indiewire
Canadian actors who move South of the border to kick start their careers are a dime a dozen. Rachel McAdams, Mike Meyers, Michael J. Fox, Ryan Gosling, Sandra Oh - the list is endless. Newcomer, and fellow Canuck Richard de Klerk, who's worked with Canadian director Carl Bessai twice in "Repeaters" and "Cole," is following in their footsteps, while at the same time staking out an career as a producer, ...
- 11/12/2010
- indieWIRE - People
Canadian actors who move South of the border to kick start their careers are a dime a dozen. Rachel McAdams, Mike Meyers, Michael J. Fox, Ryan Gosling, Sandra Oh - the list is endless. Newcomer, and fellow Canuck Richard de Klerk, who's worked with Canadian director Carl Bessai twice in "Repeaters" and "Cole," is following in their footsteps, while at the same time staking out an career as a producer, ...
- 11/12/2010
- indieWIRE - People
Year: 2010
Director: Carl Bessai
Writer: Arne Olsen
IMDb: link
Trailer: link
Review by: Marina Antunes
Rating: 7 out of 10
When it comes to making movies, Carl Bessai knows what he’s doing. The prolific filmmaker pumps them out on average of one per year and this year he’s outdone himself with not one but two films. One is a family comedy titled Fathers&Sons (a must for fans of dysfunctional family comedies) and the second of the duo and Bessai’s first foray into genre film making, is Repeaters, a film many have compared to Groundhog Day based on the premise alone but which has much more in common with Bessai’s previous films than with the comedic classic.
Kyle, Sonia and Weeks are in rehab, counting through the days (and steps) until it’s all over. Today is Step 9: making amends. The group gets their day passes and...
Director: Carl Bessai
Writer: Arne Olsen
IMDb: link
Trailer: link
Review by: Marina Antunes
Rating: 7 out of 10
When it comes to making movies, Carl Bessai knows what he’s doing. The prolific filmmaker pumps them out on average of one per year and this year he’s outdone himself with not one but two films. One is a family comedy titled Fathers&Sons (a must for fans of dysfunctional family comedies) and the second of the duo and Bessai’s first foray into genre film making, is Repeaters, a film many have compared to Groundhog Day based on the premise alone but which has much more in common with Bessai’s previous films than with the comedic classic.
Kyle, Sonia and Weeks are in rehab, counting through the days (and steps) until it’s all over. Today is Step 9: making amends. The group gets their day passes and...
- 10/13/2010
- QuietEarth.us
The trailer of one of Canadian director Carl Bessai's latest films, Fathers & Sons, is now online.
This film is a spin-off of the film Mothers and Daughters , a comedy that deals with the relation some women have with their mom. In Fathers & Sons, women are replaced by men, and mothers, by fathers.
Here's the description of the story according to the studio behind the film, Raven West:
A middle-aged Jewish man meets his father for the first time at the funeral of his mother. A south-asian accountant introduces his white fiance to his father - a gay, bollywood choreographer. A recently bankrupted wall street broker has come home to borrow money from his music teacher father, and four brothers gather at the paternal home to pay their last respects and to collect their inheritance.
The film stars Stephen Lobo, Manoj Sood, Tyler Labine, Vincent Gale, Hrothgar Mathews, Tom Scholte,...
This film is a spin-off of the film Mothers and Daughters , a comedy that deals with the relation some women have with their mom. In Fathers & Sons, women are replaced by men, and mothers, by fathers.
Here's the description of the story according to the studio behind the film, Raven West:
A middle-aged Jewish man meets his father for the first time at the funeral of his mother. A south-asian accountant introduces his white fiance to his father - a gay, bollywood choreographer. A recently bankrupted wall street broker has come home to borrow money from his music teacher father, and four brothers gather at the paternal home to pay their last respects and to collect their inheritance.
The film stars Stephen Lobo, Manoj Sood, Tyler Labine, Vincent Gale, Hrothgar Mathews, Tom Scholte,...
- 10/6/2010
- by anhkhoido@hotmail.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
Yesterday, Montreal's Festival du nouveau cinéma (Fnc), which will take place from October 13 to 24, revealed its full line-up of films. Nineteen Canadian feature films and documentaries will be presented. However, don't expect to see all films that were screened at the latest Toronto or Vancouver International Film Festivals.
Opening film:
10 1/2
Director: Daniel Grou (Podz)
Starring: Claude Legault, Robert Naylor and Albert Kwan
International selection
Jo pour Jonathan
Director: Maxime Giroux
Starring: Jean-Sébastien Courchesne, Raphaël Lacaille, Jean-Alexandre Létourneau and Vanessa Pilon
Focus Québec/Canada
A Night for Dying Tigers
Director: Terry Miles
Starring: Jennifer Beals, Gil Bellows, Lauren Lee Smith, Tygh Runyan, Kathleen Robertson, John Pyper-Ferguson, Leah Gibson, Sarah Lind and Jessica Heafey
Affinity Point
Director: Deeh
Starring: Danielle Hubbard, Jason D. Pitre, Sophie Ricard and Yann Faussurier
2 fois une femme
Director: François Delisle
Starring: Evelyne Rompré, Marc Béland and Catherine de Léan
Falardeau (Documentary)
Director: German Gutierrez and Carmen Garcia...
Opening film:
10 1/2
Director: Daniel Grou (Podz)
Starring: Claude Legault, Robert Naylor and Albert Kwan
International selection
Jo pour Jonathan
Director: Maxime Giroux
Starring: Jean-Sébastien Courchesne, Raphaël Lacaille, Jean-Alexandre Létourneau and Vanessa Pilon
Focus Québec/Canada
A Night for Dying Tigers
Director: Terry Miles
Starring: Jennifer Beals, Gil Bellows, Lauren Lee Smith, Tygh Runyan, Kathleen Robertson, John Pyper-Ferguson, Leah Gibson, Sarah Lind and Jessica Heafey
Affinity Point
Director: Deeh
Starring: Danielle Hubbard, Jason D. Pitre, Sophie Ricard and Yann Faussurier
2 fois une femme
Director: François Delisle
Starring: Evelyne Rompré, Marc Béland and Catherine de Léan
Falardeau (Documentary)
Director: German Gutierrez and Carmen Garcia...
- 9/29/2010
- by anhkhoido@hotmail.com (Anh Khoi Do)
- The Cultural Post
Henry’s Crime
After living in Buffalo the past four years, I was intrigued to see how director Malcolm Venville (44 Inch Chest) would capture the disparate lifestyle and rundown city with his latest feature Henry’s Crime. Starring Keanu Reeves, James Caan and Vera Farmiga in script from Sacha Gervasi (Anvil), he tells the story of a tollbooth worker who goes to jail for a robbery he was mistakenly involved with. After getting out of prison, he plans to do the crime he did the time for.
Venville attempts to balance comedy and drama with very little success. Keanu Reeves simply can’t pull off a dramatic performance. It’s impossible to buy his relationship with Farmiga. His lifeless demeanor matches the dry tone of the film. There is absolutely no style to be found here. What could have been the most interesting aspect, the actual “heist,” is done in...
After living in Buffalo the past four years, I was intrigued to see how director Malcolm Venville (44 Inch Chest) would capture the disparate lifestyle and rundown city with his latest feature Henry’s Crime. Starring Keanu Reeves, James Caan and Vera Farmiga in script from Sacha Gervasi (Anvil), he tells the story of a tollbooth worker who goes to jail for a robbery he was mistakenly involved with. After getting out of prison, he plans to do the crime he did the time for.
Venville attempts to balance comedy and drama with very little success. Keanu Reeves simply can’t pull off a dramatic performance. It’s impossible to buy his relationship with Farmiga. His lifeless demeanor matches the dry tone of the film. There is absolutely no style to be found here. What could have been the most interesting aspect, the actual “heist,” is done in...
- 9/20/2010
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
It takes real guts to borrow the precise concept from Groundhog Day, and even more to not acknowledge the film's influence at all. And even though Repeaters does much less with the genius "repeating a day" gimmick than Harold Ramis and Bill Murray, it's an earnest and ridiculous thriller about drug addicts that's perversely fun to watch as well. It masquerades at first as a story about redemption and quite literally making amends, but once Repeaters embraces its trashy action and violence, it's an oddly compelling and energetic adventure. Be warned-- I may have only enjoyed this so much because it came in the middle of a film festival, and watching a movie with zero subtext and limited narrative logic was an odd pleasure. But Carl Bessai's film, still looking for distribution, really does have a shaggy appeal. Kyle (Dustin Milligan), Sonia (Amanda Crew) and Weeks (Richard de Klerk...
- 9/18/2010
- cinemablend.com
If you happened to have caught either of Canadian filmmaker Carl Bessai's last two films -- the familial drama 'Mothers & Daughters' or the wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance 'Cole' -- you'd go into his latest, 'Repeaters,' expecting a simple ... Read more
Filed under: Theatrical Reviews, Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Reviews, Cinematical
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Filed under: Theatrical Reviews, Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Reviews, Cinematical
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- 9/15/2010
- by Monika Bartyzel
- Moviefone
If you happened to have caught either of Canadian filmmaker Carl Bessai's last two films -- the familial drama 'Mothers & Daughters' or the wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance 'Cole' -- you'd go into his latest, 'Repeaters,' expecting a simple ... Read more
Filed under: Theatrical Reviews, Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Reviews, Cinematical
Permalink | Email this | Linking Blogs | Comments...
Filed under: Theatrical Reviews, Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Reviews, Cinematical
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- 9/15/2010
- by Monika Bartyzel
- Moviefone
If you happened to have caught either of Canadian filmmaker Carl Bessai's last two films -- the familial drama 'Mothers & Daughters' or the wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance 'Cole' -- you'd go into his latest, 'Repeaters,' expecting a simple and thoughtful indie drama. Not this time around. Though Bessai does maintain his pensive, character-focused style, he ups the ante to deliver a surprising and often kinetic look at what can happen if your days start repeating, a la 'Groundhog Day.'
Dustin Milligan -- given more to do than chill at Beverly Hills High in the first season of '90210' -- plays Kyle, an addict in mandatory rehab who faces his first day-pass out of the joint alongside friends Sonia (Amanda Crew, 'Charlie St. Cloud') and Weeks (Richard de Klerk, 'Cole'). They're on Step Nine -- making amends with the people they...
Dustin Milligan -- given more to do than chill at Beverly Hills High in the first season of '90210' -- plays Kyle, an addict in mandatory rehab who faces his first day-pass out of the joint alongside friends Sonia (Amanda Crew, 'Charlie St. Cloud') and Weeks (Richard de Klerk, 'Cole'). They're on Step Nine -- making amends with the people they...
- 9/15/2010
- by Monika Bartyzel
- Cinematical
Filed under: Theatrical Reviews, Toronto International Film Festival, Toronto Film Festival, Reviews, Cinematical
If you happened to have caught either of Canadian filmmaker Carl Bessai's last two films -- the familial drama 'Mothers & Daughters' or the wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance 'Cole' -- you'd go into his latest, 'Repeaters,' expecting a simple and thoughtful indie drama. Not this time around. Though Bessai does maintain his pensive, character-focused style, he ups the ante to deliver a surprising and often kinetic look at what can happen if your days start repeating, a la 'Groundhog Day.'
Dustin Milligan -- given more to do than chill at Beverly Hills High in the first season of '90210' -- plays Kyle, an addict in mandatory rehab who faces his first day-pass out of the joint alongside friends Sonia (Amanda Crew, 'Charlie St. Cloud') and Weeks (Richard de Klerk, '...
If you happened to have caught either of Canadian filmmaker Carl Bessai's last two films -- the familial drama 'Mothers & Daughters' or the wrong-side-of-the-tracks romance 'Cole' -- you'd go into his latest, 'Repeaters,' expecting a simple and thoughtful indie drama. Not this time around. Though Bessai does maintain his pensive, character-focused style, he ups the ante to deliver a surprising and often kinetic look at what can happen if your days start repeating, a la 'Groundhog Day.'
Dustin Milligan -- given more to do than chill at Beverly Hills High in the first season of '90210' -- plays Kyle, an addict in mandatory rehab who faces his first day-pass out of the joint alongside friends Sonia (Amanda Crew, 'Charlie St. Cloud') and Weeks (Richard de Klerk, '...
- 9/15/2010
- by Monika Bartyzel
- Cinematical
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