Set in a dystopian tomorrow Kevin Reynolds helmed Waterworld (1995) washed ashore in theaters nearly 30 years ago, as one of the most infamous summer sci-fi films, starring Kevin Costner. Despite the iconic amalgamation of Aquatic Western with a science-fiction twist, the movie became famous for its outrageous budget and behind-the-scenes creative battles.
Kevin Costner in Kevin Reynolds’ movie Waterworld. (Photo: Ben Glass/Universal Pictures/Courtesy: Everett Collection)
Years later looking back at Kevin Reynolds’ Waterworld, it seems a lot of those issues could have been avoided with quick thinking and foresight. Or maybe, Kevin Costner could have simply listened to Steven Spielberg’s advice, especially after he reached out to the director for suggestions, ahead of shooting.
Kevin Costner Sought Steven Spielberg’s Advice Ahead of Waterworld
Playing the role of a mysterious wanderer in a post-apocalyptic world, Kevin Costner catered to the character of Mariner in Kevin Reynolds’ renowned 1995 action sci-fi Waterworld.
Kevin Costner in Kevin Reynolds’ movie Waterworld. (Photo: Ben Glass/Universal Pictures/Courtesy: Everett Collection)
Years later looking back at Kevin Reynolds’ Waterworld, it seems a lot of those issues could have been avoided with quick thinking and foresight. Or maybe, Kevin Costner could have simply listened to Steven Spielberg’s advice, especially after he reached out to the director for suggestions, ahead of shooting.
Kevin Costner Sought Steven Spielberg’s Advice Ahead of Waterworld
Playing the role of a mysterious wanderer in a post-apocalyptic world, Kevin Costner catered to the character of Mariner in Kevin Reynolds’ renowned 1995 action sci-fi Waterworld.
- 5/2/2024
- by Krittika Mukherjee
- FandomWire
Kevin Costner is one of the most talented actor-directors in the whole film industry. Having starred and directed one of the most famous Western movies of all time, Dances with Wolves, the Yellowstone star was at the top of his career in the late ’80s and ’90s.
Kevin Costner in a still from Waterworld
However, the actor hit a new low, both professionally and personally, while shooting the movie Waterworld. Not only did he end up clashing several times with the movie’s director and his long-time collaborator Kevin Reynolds, but he was also going through a brutal $80 million divorce.
When Kevin Costner Clashed with Kevin Reynolds
A still from Waterworld
Kevin Costner and Kevin Reynolds have had a long history of collaboration. The duo has famously collaborated on movies like The Untouchables, Dances with Wolves, and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. However, it was their fourth collaboration that things...
Kevin Costner in a still from Waterworld
However, the actor hit a new low, both professionally and personally, while shooting the movie Waterworld. Not only did he end up clashing several times with the movie’s director and his long-time collaborator Kevin Reynolds, but he was also going through a brutal $80 million divorce.
When Kevin Costner Clashed with Kevin Reynolds
A still from Waterworld
Kevin Costner and Kevin Reynolds have had a long history of collaboration. The duo has famously collaborated on movies like The Untouchables, Dances with Wolves, and Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves. However, it was their fourth collaboration that things...
- 4/5/2024
- by Maria Sultan
- FandomWire
A follow-up to Universal’s 1995 movie Waterworld, starring Kevin Costner, is in the works for the small screen. The project, which hails from original producer John Davis and his Davis Entertainment is in very early development at UCP, sources tell Deadline. Davis tells Collider, which first reported the project, that Dan Trachtenberg (10 Cloverfield Lane) is attached to direct.
The series would pick up with the film’s characters 20 years later. No platform is attached, but sources close to the project say it could potentially be set at UCP sister streamer Peacock. Talks are currently underway with potential writers.
UCP would not comment.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future ravaged by climate change, the film revolves around a world that is covered in water. The polar ice cap has completely melted and the sea level has risen over 25,000 feet, covering nearly every inch of land. Costner stars as the Mariner, a drifter...
The series would pick up with the film’s characters 20 years later. No platform is attached, but sources close to the project say it could potentially be set at UCP sister streamer Peacock. Talks are currently underway with potential writers.
UCP would not comment.
Set in a post-apocalyptic future ravaged by climate change, the film revolves around a world that is covered in water. The polar ice cap has completely melted and the sea level has risen over 25,000 feet, covering nearly every inch of land. Costner stars as the Mariner, a drifter...
- 7/29/2021
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Before we bid the month of April farewell, we still have one final batch of Blu-ray and DVD releases coming our way this Tuesday to look forward to. Scream Factory is set to release a double dose of classic horror with The Brain and Tarantula, and Vinegar Syndrome is keeping busy with their terror-inducing trio of titles: The Corruption of Chris Miller, Grandmother’s House, and Darkroom.
Kino Lorber is also giving Hannibal (2001) the 4K treatment this week, and if you happened to miss them during their limited releases, both The Hole in the Ground and Level 16 are very much worth your time.
Other Blu-ray and DVD releases for April 30th include City of the Vampires, Deadly Crush, Emanuelle and Francoise, Death Warmed Up, and Motel Mist.
The Brain
Imagine a pulsating mass of gray matter, expanding in size and strength as it takes control of human minds and devours human bodies.
Kino Lorber is also giving Hannibal (2001) the 4K treatment this week, and if you happened to miss them during their limited releases, both The Hole in the Ground and Level 16 are very much worth your time.
Other Blu-ray and DVD releases for April 30th include City of the Vampires, Deadly Crush, Emanuelle and Francoise, Death Warmed Up, and Motel Mist.
The Brain
Imagine a pulsating mass of gray matter, expanding in size and strength as it takes control of human minds and devours human bodies.
- 4/30/2019
- by Heather Wixson
- DailyDead
Ryan Lambie Jul 24, 2017
It was a legendarily expensive action vehicle for Kevin Costner in 1995, but Waterworld originally began life as a subtly different story...
Tales of Waterworld's making have long since passed into legend. You've probably read about the long and difficult shoot on the open seas around Hawaii, about the soaring costs, the sinking sets and the increasingly fractious relationship between the two Kevins - director Kevin Reynolds and star Kevin Costner. You've probably heard about a pre-Buffy Joss Whedon being flown in to revise the script, and how, getting wind of all this, the Hollywood press started calling Waterworld names like "Fishtar and "Kevin's Gate".
See related Vikings renewed for season 5
What's less commonly discussed is just where Waterworld came from. It's often reported that the screenplay was written by Peter Rader and later reworked by David Twohy; what's less widely known is that Waterworld could...
It was a legendarily expensive action vehicle for Kevin Costner in 1995, but Waterworld originally began life as a subtly different story...
Tales of Waterworld's making have long since passed into legend. You've probably read about the long and difficult shoot on the open seas around Hawaii, about the soaring costs, the sinking sets and the increasingly fractious relationship between the two Kevins - director Kevin Reynolds and star Kevin Costner. You've probably heard about a pre-Buffy Joss Whedon being flown in to revise the script, and how, getting wind of all this, the Hollywood press started calling Waterworld names like "Fishtar and "Kevin's Gate".
See related Vikings renewed for season 5
What's less commonly discussed is just where Waterworld came from. It's often reported that the screenplay was written by Peter Rader and later reworked by David Twohy; what's less widely known is that Waterworld could...
- 6/30/2017
- Den of Geek
Belladonna Of Sadness
Release Date: Coming Soon from Cinelicious Pics Written By: Yoshiyuki Fukuda, Jules Michelet (novel), Eiichi Yamamoto Directed By: Eiichi Yamamoto Starring: Tatsuya Nakadai, Katsuyuki Itô, Aiko Nagayama
When I heard about Cinelicious Pics’ plans to restore and release the long lost 1973 anime Belladonna Of Sadness, I was well and truly excited. I’m a huge aficionado of 70s-era anime, and this baby has been a “holy grail” of sorts for folks like me for a good many years — much desired but damn near impossible to obtain. So that being said, and with those expectations set freakin’ sky high, let’s see if ol’ Belladonna was worth the wait or will it just fill me with sadness of my own!
Belladonna Of Sadness, based loosely (and by that I mean hardly at all) on the French novel La Sorcière by Jules Michelet, tells the brutal tale of Jeanne,...
Release Date: Coming Soon from Cinelicious Pics Written By: Yoshiyuki Fukuda, Jules Michelet (novel), Eiichi Yamamoto Directed By: Eiichi Yamamoto Starring: Tatsuya Nakadai, Katsuyuki Itô, Aiko Nagayama
When I heard about Cinelicious Pics’ plans to restore and release the long lost 1973 anime Belladonna Of Sadness, I was well and truly excited. I’m a huge aficionado of 70s-era anime, and this baby has been a “holy grail” of sorts for folks like me for a good many years — much desired but damn near impossible to obtain. So that being said, and with those expectations set freakin’ sky high, let’s see if ol’ Belladonna was worth the wait or will it just fill me with sadness of my own!
Belladonna Of Sadness, based loosely (and by that I mean hardly at all) on the French novel La Sorcière by Jules Michelet, tells the brutal tale of Jeanne,...
- 5/16/2016
- by DanielXIII
- FamousMonsters of Filmland
The 2016 Illuminate Film Festival, which will take place June 1 – 5, 2016 in Sedona, Arizona has announced the official line up of films for the 3rd annual event. The only film festival of its kind, the Illuminate Film Festival offers a collection of over 20 feature length and short films from around the world, exploring the year’s best in conscious cinema, as well as eye opening and thought provoking panels and conversations that will expand minds and inspire dialogue.
“We are proud to be the world’s premier film festival for conscious cinema” said the festival’s Executive Director Danette Wolpert, “and continue to attract movie-lovers, spiritual seekers and conscious lifestyle enthusiasts from over 25 states and 8 countries. In our third year, we will offer audiences the opportunity to enjoy the world’s best life-affirming, mind-body-spirit focused films, experience radical transformation together and meet trailblazers in the emerging genre of conscious cinema.”
Illuminate will begin on June 1st, 2016 with a pre-Festival Launch Party and Free Outdoor Screening of work-in-progress "Be More," a stirring documentary film narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, about seven activists who make it their mission to create a more compassionate world. Their goal: To transform the lives of seventeen teenagers in seven days. Filmmaker Justin Haulbrook will be in attendance.
Opening Film on June 2nd, 2016 will be "Maya Angelou and Still I Rise," which portrays the vibrant spirit of an American Legend - author, poet, Grammy-winner, civil rights activist and shining example of what it is to be empowered moment by moment in one’s life. Directed by Bob Hercules and Rita Coburn Whack, the film features interviews with Oprah Winfrey, James Earl Jones, Alice Walker and Hillary Clinton. Filmmaker Rita Coburn Whack will be in attendance.
The Festival’s Spotlight will be the emotional tour de force "Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru," directed by Academy Award® nominated Joe Berlinger. This film pulls back the curtain on the internationally renowned life and business strategist and his mammoth annual seminar, capturing the life changing transformations of the participants in real time. The Closing Film event will be a Sneak Peek of "Mantra: Sounds Into Silence," a film about the revolution underway in world Kirtan, yoga's call-and-response form of devotional music. Sneak peek clips of the film will be followed by a Q&A and live concert with world-renowned Kirtan sensation Jai Uttal. Filmmaker Georgia Wyss will be in attendance.
The Illuminate Film Festival will introduce the inaugural Conscious Visionary Award, an award honoring a pioneer in the world of conscious cinema, spirituality, and life achievement as a teacher and facilitator of human transformation. The award will be presented to the Hon. Dr. Rev. Michael Bernard Beckwith for his unparalleled record of bringing hope, love and encouragement to millions of spiritual seekers, creating the Agape worldwide community of faithful parishioners, students, healers and teachers who carry his message forward, and his complete dedication to uplifting and inspiring humanity through his church, books, audio recordings and numerous film appearances.
Chaz Ebert has signed on as the keynote speaker for the Conscious Film Convergence and will speak on the role of transformational entertainment and its potential impact on humanity. Chaz, wife of the late Roger Ebert, is the CEO of several Ebert enterprises, including President of Ebert Productions and Chairman of the Board of The Roger and Chaz Ebert Foundation, and Co-Founder and Producer of Ebertfest, the film festival now in its 18th year.
Other films in the lineup include:
"A New High" (2015), directed by Samuel Miron and Stephen Scott Scarpulla - Everyone defines their mountain. For the residents of a Seattle homeless shelter, it’s homelessness, addiction, abuse.... and the 14,400-foot Mt Rainier.
"The Connected Universe" (2016), directed by Malcom Carter – Returning after its sold out Sneak Peek at Illuminate 2015, this documentary featuring Nassim Haramein discovers the science behind the interconnection of all things in a magnificent, groundbreaking union of science and spirituality. (Private screening)
"From This Day Forward" (2015), directed by Sharon Shattuck – Filmmaker Sharon Shattuck examines the mystery at the heart of her upbringing – How her transgender father Trisha and her straight-identified mother Marcia stayed together against all odds – depicting a love that survived the most intimate of transformations.
More information Here
"Home Care" (2015), directed by Slávek Horák – The official 2016 Oscar entry for the Czech Republic, this appealing humanist tale follows Vlasta, a dedicated home nurse whose entire life is devoted to saving others, as she reluctantly ventures into spirituality and alternative medicine to find salvation for herself.
More information Here
"Icaros: A Visions" (2016), directed by Leonor Caraballo and Matteo Norzi - A film shaped like a shamanic journey utilizing the unique qualities of plant medicine, steeped in a psychoactive brew exploring fear and destiny in the jungle of the mind and the Amazon. (Southwest Premiere)
More information Here
"Love, Sweat & Tears" (2016), directed by Scott Jacobs – Dr. Pamela Dee Gaudry is on a mission to “Save The Menopausal Vaginas of America!” In this documentary, Gaudry marries medical facts with profound insights from some of today’s influential spiritual leaders such as Hon. Dr. Rev. Michael Beckwith and Rev June Gatlin, as well as riotous comedians Joan Rivers and Jenny McCarthy. (World Premiere)
More information Here
"Teal" The Making of a Spiritual Teacher" (2016), directed by Paola Marino – Referred to as “The Spiritual Catalyst” and dubbed the next Wayne Dyer, Teal Swan’s extrasensory gifts and connection to the spiritual realm are a light in the perpetual darkness of the modern age. (Work-In-Progress World Premiere)
More information Here
"Orange Sunshine" (2016), directed by William A. Kirkley – During the early 1960’s, a group of family, friends, and surfers formed a church centered around psychedelics. For The Brotherhood of Eternal Love, the mission was to enlighten the world, and the law was but a mere interference. (Arizona Premiere)
More information Here
"Planting Seeds of Mindfulness" (2016), directed by Gregory Kennedy-Salemi and Stuary Jolley –Based on the teachings of world renowned Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh, and featuring riveting music by Tina Turner, this live action-animated film about a teenager’s mindful journey is a powerful tool to help children, parents, teachers and communities develop the skills to promote peace within themselves and in the world around them. (World Premiere)
More information Here
"Pursuing Happiness" (2015), directed by Adam Shell – The desire to be happy is so intense that we spend an immeasurable amount of time and money in an effort to obtain it. This enchanting, revelatory documentary explores the happiest people in America and uncovers the secrets to their happiness.
More information Here
"Thank You For Your Service" (2016), directed by Tom Donahue – This gripping documentary about four Iraq War veterans struggling with Ptsd explores the healing aspects of meditation, native ceremony and equine therapy. Impactful interviews include former Defense Secretary Robert Gates, General David Petraeus and Mayor Rudy Guiliani. (Southwest Premiere)
More information Here
"The C Word" (2016), directed by Meghan O’Hara – Cancer is no laughing matter – but the archaic way we are battling it is. Executive produced and narrated by Morgan Freeman, this film explores hidden science, the absurdity of the status quo, and introduces a vibrant cast of characters changing the cancer game. (Southwest Premiere)
More information Here
"The Highest Past" (2011), directed by Jon Fitzgerald – Seven motorcycle riders share the journey of a lifetime along some of the most dangerous roads in the world, guided by a modern yogi and guru. (Cinema Revisited)
More information Here
"Tree Story" (2015), directed by Ward Serrill – A series of short documentary films that explore the relationship between humans and trees from every conceivable angle: the scientific, the mythical, the practical, the cultural, and the spiritual. (Festival World Premiere)
"Vegan" Everyday Stories" (2016), directed by Glenn Scott Lacey – Explore the lives of four remarkably different people who share a common thread – they’re all vegan. Follow an ultramarthon runner, a cattle rancher’s wife and an 8 year-old girl through their profound transformations. Featuring interviews with Moby, Russell Simmons and Ed Begley Jr. (World Premiere)
More information Here
Short Films:
"The Avadhut" directed by Jonathan Dubsky, Fenulla Jiwan, Zottomer Kenatarac (World Premiere)
"Catching Fire" directed by Ward Serrill (World Premiere)
"Forgotten Ritual" directed by Mirjam Hlastan (Us Premiere)
"Holistic Life Foundation" directed by Chris Farina (Southwest Premiere)
"Sister Jaguar's Journey" directed by Sande Zeig
"Today I Acknowledge" directed by Jessica Hahner (Arizona Premiere)
Conscious Film Convergence Panels and Workshops:
Spotlight Conversation: Norman Seeff On Creativity: The Power of A Dream
As a photographer for the most prolific artists of our time - Tina Turner, Johnny Cash, Jim Henson, Steve Jobs, Martin Scorsese and Will.I.Am, to name a few, Norman Seeff knows something about the creative process. Through his innovative methodology, he has developed a body of content exploring the roots of creativity, innovation and optimal performance and has identified schematics describing the archetypes of the creative process that function across all creative disciplines.
Behind The ‘Seen’ – Investing In Transformational Entertainment
Through this intimate dialogue on film finance moderated by Simon Kilmurry (Executive Director, International Documentary Association), hear from three savvy individuals who are committed to bringing transformational entertainment to mainstream audiences about the art and science of financing conscious and cause-based cinema. Guests include Geralyn Dreyfous of Impact Partners/Gamechangers, and producers Jane Charles of Greater Good Entertainment ("Sold") and Ilan Arboleda of CreativeChaos (Thank You For Your Service).
Conscious Media & The Mainstream: Finding Your Audience
Media, industry outlets and tastemakers play an essential role in building buzz and excitement around new cinema titles as they seek to find their audiences, often defining their position in the marketplace. Join Corrine Bourdeau, President of 360 Degree Communications, Bill Goodykoontz, Film Critic Az Republic & Gannett News Service, Maya Zuckerman, Huffington Post writer, and Mark DeNicola of Collective Evolution as they reveal how to best leverage the media and how conscious cinema can be branded, marketed and presented to engage audiences and maximize box office.
Act of Transformation - A Screenwriter's Workshop
Emmy Award winning screenwriter Dev Ross conducts a workshop focused on the act of transforming a conscious concept into an engaging screenplay. First, Dev will discuss how a screenplay that sets out to raise consciousness can face inherent story problems, using Joseph Campbell’s “Hero’s Journey” as a reference on how to avoid this mistake. Then, by using the model discussed in the first half, the audience will have the opportunity to participate in the creation of a three-act story outline based on audience-contributed ideas.
Distribution Therapy
Disabuse yourself from assumptions about what it’s like to tie the knot with a distributor! Get a rare chance to observe a series of conversations between filmmakers and their distributors. Join facilitator Shaeri Richards as she helps distributor-filmmaker pairs share their feelings in an entertaining format that will provide abundant wisdom on setting expectations, keeping the flame alive and when to call it quits with your distributor. Panelists: Nancy Gerstman, Co-founder/Co-president of Zeitgeist Films & filmmaker Jeremy Frindel ("One Track Heart"); Richard Lorber, CEO of Kino Lorber & producer Peter Rader ("Awake: The Life of Yogananda"); Richard Cohn, President of Beyond Words & filmmaker Patrick Solomon ("Finding Joe").
**New workshop announced!
Tools of Immersive Cinema – Virtual Reality Workshop with Sandy Smolan
Virtual Reality workshop by filmmaker Sandy Smolan entitled "Going Deep: Diving into Virtual Reality Content Creation." It will be an overview and demonstration of the technology used to create The Click Effect (Sundance 2016), a live-action, immersive Vr experience that follows two renegade marine science researchers as they attempt to free-dive a hundred feet below the ocean’s surface in a single breath to capture the “click” communication of dolphins and sperm whales.
The Launch Party and Free Outdoor Screening will take place at The Collective in the Village of Oak Creek. Festival screenings will take place at the Sedona Performing Arts Center and the Mary D. Fisher Theatre. Festival parties will be hosted by Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, the Lodge at Sedona and Picazzo’s Organic Italian Kitchen.
Illuminate Film Festival Major Sponsors
Principal: Science of Mind Magazine, ChocolaTree Organic Oasis & Sedona Chamber of Commerce
Producing: The Collective, The Lodge at Sedona, Sedona Real Inn & Suites, International Documentary Association, Picazzo’s Organic Italian Kitchen & Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Supporting: Sedona Elite Properties, Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery,
Alive Mind Cinema, and Centers for Spiritual Living
Media Sponsors: Spirituality & Health Magazine, Om Times, Conscious Life News,
Collective Evolution and Sedona Now TV.
VIP All-Access passes offer unlimited access to all events, including opening and closing night gala presentations, spotlight screenings, Reel Healing “View & Do” screenings, VIP parties and receptions, and Conscious Film Convergence panels and conversations, and provide priority ticketing access into theaters. Early Bird passes on sale now! Cost until April 20 is $349 and $444 after. Conscious Film Convergence passes are $249.
To purchase passes, visit www.illuminatefilmfestival.com. Starting May 6, individual tickets can be purchased on a space-available basis. The full schedule of films exhibiting at the 2016 Illuminate Film Festival will be posted April 19. For more information, visit www.illuminatefilmfestival.com...
“We are proud to be the world’s premier film festival for conscious cinema” said the festival’s Executive Director Danette Wolpert, “and continue to attract movie-lovers, spiritual seekers and conscious lifestyle enthusiasts from over 25 states and 8 countries. In our third year, we will offer audiences the opportunity to enjoy the world’s best life-affirming, mind-body-spirit focused films, experience radical transformation together and meet trailblazers in the emerging genre of conscious cinema.”
Illuminate will begin on June 1st, 2016 with a pre-Festival Launch Party and Free Outdoor Screening of work-in-progress "Be More," a stirring documentary film narrated by Joaquin Phoenix, about seven activists who make it their mission to create a more compassionate world. Their goal: To transform the lives of seventeen teenagers in seven days. Filmmaker Justin Haulbrook will be in attendance.
Opening Film on June 2nd, 2016 will be "Maya Angelou and Still I Rise," which portrays the vibrant spirit of an American Legend - author, poet, Grammy-winner, civil rights activist and shining example of what it is to be empowered moment by moment in one’s life. Directed by Bob Hercules and Rita Coburn Whack, the film features interviews with Oprah Winfrey, James Earl Jones, Alice Walker and Hillary Clinton. Filmmaker Rita Coburn Whack will be in attendance.
The Festival’s Spotlight will be the emotional tour de force "Tony Robbins: I Am Not Your Guru," directed by Academy Award® nominated Joe Berlinger. This film pulls back the curtain on the internationally renowned life and business strategist and his mammoth annual seminar, capturing the life changing transformations of the participants in real time. The Closing Film event will be a Sneak Peek of "Mantra: Sounds Into Silence," a film about the revolution underway in world Kirtan, yoga's call-and-response form of devotional music. Sneak peek clips of the film will be followed by a Q&A and live concert with world-renowned Kirtan sensation Jai Uttal. Filmmaker Georgia Wyss will be in attendance.
The Illuminate Film Festival will introduce the inaugural Conscious Visionary Award, an award honoring a pioneer in the world of conscious cinema, spirituality, and life achievement as a teacher and facilitator of human transformation. The award will be presented to the Hon. Dr. Rev. Michael Bernard Beckwith for his unparalleled record of bringing hope, love and encouragement to millions of spiritual seekers, creating the Agape worldwide community of faithful parishioners, students, healers and teachers who carry his message forward, and his complete dedication to uplifting and inspiring humanity through his church, books, audio recordings and numerous film appearances.
Chaz Ebert has signed on as the keynote speaker for the Conscious Film Convergence and will speak on the role of transformational entertainment and its potential impact on humanity. Chaz, wife of the late Roger Ebert, is the CEO of several Ebert enterprises, including President of Ebert Productions and Chairman of the Board of The Roger and Chaz Ebert Foundation, and Co-Founder and Producer of Ebertfest, the film festival now in its 18th year.
Other films in the lineup include:
"A New High" (2015), directed by Samuel Miron and Stephen Scott Scarpulla - Everyone defines their mountain. For the residents of a Seattle homeless shelter, it’s homelessness, addiction, abuse.... and the 14,400-foot Mt Rainier.
"The Connected Universe" (2016), directed by Malcom Carter – Returning after its sold out Sneak Peek at Illuminate 2015, this documentary featuring Nassim Haramein discovers the science behind the interconnection of all things in a magnificent, groundbreaking union of science and spirituality. (Private screening)
"From This Day Forward" (2015), directed by Sharon Shattuck – Filmmaker Sharon Shattuck examines the mystery at the heart of her upbringing – How her transgender father Trisha and her straight-identified mother Marcia stayed together against all odds – depicting a love that survived the most intimate of transformations.
More information Here
"Home Care" (2015), directed by Slávek Horák – The official 2016 Oscar entry for the Czech Republic, this appealing humanist tale follows Vlasta, a dedicated home nurse whose entire life is devoted to saving others, as she reluctantly ventures into spirituality and alternative medicine to find salvation for herself.
More information Here
"Icaros: A Visions" (2016), directed by Leonor Caraballo and Matteo Norzi - A film shaped like a shamanic journey utilizing the unique qualities of plant medicine, steeped in a psychoactive brew exploring fear and destiny in the jungle of the mind and the Amazon. (Southwest Premiere)
More information Here
"Love, Sweat & Tears" (2016), directed by Scott Jacobs – Dr. Pamela Dee Gaudry is on a mission to “Save The Menopausal Vaginas of America!” In this documentary, Gaudry marries medical facts with profound insights from some of today’s influential spiritual leaders such as Hon. Dr. Rev. Michael Beckwith and Rev June Gatlin, as well as riotous comedians Joan Rivers and Jenny McCarthy. (World Premiere)
More information Here
"Teal" The Making of a Spiritual Teacher" (2016), directed by Paola Marino – Referred to as “The Spiritual Catalyst” and dubbed the next Wayne Dyer, Teal Swan’s extrasensory gifts and connection to the spiritual realm are a light in the perpetual darkness of the modern age. (Work-In-Progress World Premiere)
More information Here
"Orange Sunshine" (2016), directed by William A. Kirkley – During the early 1960’s, a group of family, friends, and surfers formed a church centered around psychedelics. For The Brotherhood of Eternal Love, the mission was to enlighten the world, and the law was but a mere interference. (Arizona Premiere)
More information Here
"Planting Seeds of Mindfulness" (2016), directed by Gregory Kennedy-Salemi and Stuary Jolley –Based on the teachings of world renowned Zen Master, Thich Nhat Hanh, and featuring riveting music by Tina Turner, this live action-animated film about a teenager’s mindful journey is a powerful tool to help children, parents, teachers and communities develop the skills to promote peace within themselves and in the world around them. (World Premiere)
More information Here
"Pursuing Happiness" (2015), directed by Adam Shell – The desire to be happy is so intense that we spend an immeasurable amount of time and money in an effort to obtain it. This enchanting, revelatory documentary explores the happiest people in America and uncovers the secrets to their happiness.
More information Here
"Thank You For Your Service" (2016), directed by Tom Donahue – This gripping documentary about four Iraq War veterans struggling with Ptsd explores the healing aspects of meditation, native ceremony and equine therapy. Impactful interviews include former Defense Secretary Robert Gates, General David Petraeus and Mayor Rudy Guiliani. (Southwest Premiere)
More information Here
"The C Word" (2016), directed by Meghan O’Hara – Cancer is no laughing matter – but the archaic way we are battling it is. Executive produced and narrated by Morgan Freeman, this film explores hidden science, the absurdity of the status quo, and introduces a vibrant cast of characters changing the cancer game. (Southwest Premiere)
More information Here
"The Highest Past" (2011), directed by Jon Fitzgerald – Seven motorcycle riders share the journey of a lifetime along some of the most dangerous roads in the world, guided by a modern yogi and guru. (Cinema Revisited)
More information Here
"Tree Story" (2015), directed by Ward Serrill – A series of short documentary films that explore the relationship between humans and trees from every conceivable angle: the scientific, the mythical, the practical, the cultural, and the spiritual. (Festival World Premiere)
"Vegan" Everyday Stories" (2016), directed by Glenn Scott Lacey – Explore the lives of four remarkably different people who share a common thread – they’re all vegan. Follow an ultramarthon runner, a cattle rancher’s wife and an 8 year-old girl through their profound transformations. Featuring interviews with Moby, Russell Simmons and Ed Begley Jr. (World Premiere)
More information Here
Short Films:
"The Avadhut" directed by Jonathan Dubsky, Fenulla Jiwan, Zottomer Kenatarac (World Premiere)
"Catching Fire" directed by Ward Serrill (World Premiere)
"Forgotten Ritual" directed by Mirjam Hlastan (Us Premiere)
"Holistic Life Foundation" directed by Chris Farina (Southwest Premiere)
"Sister Jaguar's Journey" directed by Sande Zeig
"Today I Acknowledge" directed by Jessica Hahner (Arizona Premiere)
Conscious Film Convergence Panels and Workshops:
Spotlight Conversation: Norman Seeff On Creativity: The Power of A Dream
As a photographer for the most prolific artists of our time - Tina Turner, Johnny Cash, Jim Henson, Steve Jobs, Martin Scorsese and Will.I.Am, to name a few, Norman Seeff knows something about the creative process. Through his innovative methodology, he has developed a body of content exploring the roots of creativity, innovation and optimal performance and has identified schematics describing the archetypes of the creative process that function across all creative disciplines.
Behind The ‘Seen’ – Investing In Transformational Entertainment
Through this intimate dialogue on film finance moderated by Simon Kilmurry (Executive Director, International Documentary Association), hear from three savvy individuals who are committed to bringing transformational entertainment to mainstream audiences about the art and science of financing conscious and cause-based cinema. Guests include Geralyn Dreyfous of Impact Partners/Gamechangers, and producers Jane Charles of Greater Good Entertainment ("Sold") and Ilan Arboleda of CreativeChaos (Thank You For Your Service).
Conscious Media & The Mainstream: Finding Your Audience
Media, industry outlets and tastemakers play an essential role in building buzz and excitement around new cinema titles as they seek to find their audiences, often defining their position in the marketplace. Join Corrine Bourdeau, President of 360 Degree Communications, Bill Goodykoontz, Film Critic Az Republic & Gannett News Service, Maya Zuckerman, Huffington Post writer, and Mark DeNicola of Collective Evolution as they reveal how to best leverage the media and how conscious cinema can be branded, marketed and presented to engage audiences and maximize box office.
Act of Transformation - A Screenwriter's Workshop
Emmy Award winning screenwriter Dev Ross conducts a workshop focused on the act of transforming a conscious concept into an engaging screenplay. First, Dev will discuss how a screenplay that sets out to raise consciousness can face inherent story problems, using Joseph Campbell’s “Hero’s Journey” as a reference on how to avoid this mistake. Then, by using the model discussed in the first half, the audience will have the opportunity to participate in the creation of a three-act story outline based on audience-contributed ideas.
Distribution Therapy
Disabuse yourself from assumptions about what it’s like to tie the knot with a distributor! Get a rare chance to observe a series of conversations between filmmakers and their distributors. Join facilitator Shaeri Richards as she helps distributor-filmmaker pairs share their feelings in an entertaining format that will provide abundant wisdom on setting expectations, keeping the flame alive and when to call it quits with your distributor. Panelists: Nancy Gerstman, Co-founder/Co-president of Zeitgeist Films & filmmaker Jeremy Frindel ("One Track Heart"); Richard Lorber, CEO of Kino Lorber & producer Peter Rader ("Awake: The Life of Yogananda"); Richard Cohn, President of Beyond Words & filmmaker Patrick Solomon ("Finding Joe").
**New workshop announced!
Tools of Immersive Cinema – Virtual Reality Workshop with Sandy Smolan
Virtual Reality workshop by filmmaker Sandy Smolan entitled "Going Deep: Diving into Virtual Reality Content Creation." It will be an overview and demonstration of the technology used to create The Click Effect (Sundance 2016), a live-action, immersive Vr experience that follows two renegade marine science researchers as they attempt to free-dive a hundred feet below the ocean’s surface in a single breath to capture the “click” communication of dolphins and sperm whales.
The Launch Party and Free Outdoor Screening will take place at The Collective in the Village of Oak Creek. Festival screenings will take place at the Sedona Performing Arts Center and the Mary D. Fisher Theatre. Festival parties will be hosted by Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village, the Lodge at Sedona and Picazzo’s Organic Italian Kitchen.
Illuminate Film Festival Major Sponsors
Principal: Science of Mind Magazine, ChocolaTree Organic Oasis & Sedona Chamber of Commerce
Producing: The Collective, The Lodge at Sedona, Sedona Real Inn & Suites, International Documentary Association, Picazzo’s Organic Italian Kitchen & Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village
Supporting: Sedona Elite Properties, Javelina Leap Vineyard & Winery,
Alive Mind Cinema, and Centers for Spiritual Living
Media Sponsors: Spirituality & Health Magazine, Om Times, Conscious Life News,
Collective Evolution and Sedona Now TV.
VIP All-Access passes offer unlimited access to all events, including opening and closing night gala presentations, spotlight screenings, Reel Healing “View & Do” screenings, VIP parties and receptions, and Conscious Film Convergence panels and conversations, and provide priority ticketing access into theaters. Early Bird passes on sale now! Cost until April 20 is $349 and $444 after. Conscious Film Convergence passes are $249.
To purchase passes, visit www.illuminatefilmfestival.com. Starting May 6, individual tickets can be purchased on a space-available basis. The full schedule of films exhibiting at the 2016 Illuminate Film Festival will be posted April 19. For more information, visit www.illuminatefilmfestival.com...
- 4/18/2016
- by Peter Belsito
- Sydney's Buzz
It's been two decades, and still, the waves from the tsunami that was "Waterworld" have not receded.
Released 20 years ago this week (on July 28, 1995), the post-apocalyptic epic about the survivors of a drowned Earth became known as one of the most bloated flops of all time. That reputation wasn't really fair (the movie eventually broke even), but it was the then-most expensive movie ever made.
For a year before the film's release, stories leaked out about the waterlogged production's near-disastrous setbacks and its ego clashes between star Kevin Costner and his hand-picked director, Kevin Reynolds. Punsters were calling the movie "Fishtar" and "Kevin's Gate." By the time "Waterworld" finally came out, its underwhelming reception was a self-fulfilling prophecy. Costner's career as a bankable leading man has never really recovered.
In honor of the film turning 20 years old today, here are 20 facts you may not know about "Waterworld."
1. Initially, "Waterworld" was...
Released 20 years ago this week (on July 28, 1995), the post-apocalyptic epic about the survivors of a drowned Earth became known as one of the most bloated flops of all time. That reputation wasn't really fair (the movie eventually broke even), but it was the then-most expensive movie ever made.
For a year before the film's release, stories leaked out about the waterlogged production's near-disastrous setbacks and its ego clashes between star Kevin Costner and his hand-picked director, Kevin Reynolds. Punsters were calling the movie "Fishtar" and "Kevin's Gate." By the time "Waterworld" finally came out, its underwhelming reception was a self-fulfilling prophecy. Costner's career as a bankable leading man has never really recovered.
In honor of the film turning 20 years old today, here are 20 facts you may not know about "Waterworld."
1. Initially, "Waterworld" was...
- 7/28/2015
- by Gary Susman
- Moviefone
A case study of the success of "Awake: The Life of Yogananda" will highlight the second annual Illuminate Film Festival’s "Conscious Film Convergence," a series of workshops and panels offering filmmakers – those with experience as well as those just starting out – the opportunity to learn about developing, producing and distributing conscious films, May 27-31 in Sedona, Arizona.
After its southwest premiere at last year’s inaugural Illuminate Film Festival, "Awake: The Life of Yogananada," the unconventional biography of the legendary East Indian mystic, went on to screen at 250 venues across North America and booked more than 30,000 tickets through the Gathr® theatrical on-demand platform. At this year’s Festival, the filmmakers and their distribution partners will discuss how they combined strategic partnerships, grassroots marketing and a hybrid distribution model to gross over $1 million at the U.S. box office within the first three months of release.
Additional panels at the Conscious Film Convergence, the first gathering of significant industry executives in this independent film genre, will feature master distribution strategist Peter Broderick and industry icons Barnet Bain ("What Dreams May Come," "The Celestine Prophecy"); Elizabeth Sheldon, Senior Vice President at Kino Lorber; and Abramorama President Richard Abramowitz, among others, as part of the Festival’s five days of life-affirming cinematic works that encourage audiences to ponder existence more deeply than their daily routines.
The Illuminate Film Festival curates narrative features, documentaries and shorts in the mind-body-spirit genre, featuring inspirational human journey stories and themes related to mindfulness, self-discovery, body-mind science, yoga, meditation, spiritual practice, organic and plant-based food movements and sustainable living.
“As a launching platform for conscious cinema, our goal is to get enlightening content into movie theaters across the globe,” said Illuminate Film Festival Executive Director and Founder Danette Wolpert. “The Conscious Cinema Movement has reached a tipping point. Conscious concepts, once trivialized, have become mainstream thanks to moguls like Oprah, Russell Brand, Deepak Chopra and Russell Simmons. The Illuminate Film Festival is poised to establish conscious cinema as a viable business sector within the independent film business.”
The Conscious Film Convergence schedule is:
Friday, May 29
• Spotlight Conversation with Barnet Bain:
Bain, a television and film industry veteran whose credits include Oscar-winning "What Dreams May Come," Emmy-nominated "Homeless to Harvard," spiritual classic "The Celestine Prophecy" and the new documentary, "When I Was Young I Said I Would Be Happy," will tell you that to make a conscious film, you must first become a conscious individual. In this Q&A with Barnett, attendees will discover how to connect with their true calling and unleash their full creative potential.
• Conscious Film Financing: "The Connected Universe"
Perhaps it’s fitting that a film that explores the science behind the interconnection of all things has just become the highest funded documentary in Indiegogo history with over $290 thousand raised via the popular crowdfunding website. Join "The Connected Universe" director Malcom Carter and others for insight into cracking the crowdsourcing code.
Saturday, May 30
• The Conscious Cinema Accelerator:
Five applicants will be invited to participate in 20-minute speed meetings for personalized project and career coaching from veteran film professionals in conscious film production, finance, marketing and distribution. Submissions: https://filmfreeway.com/festival/ConsciousCinemaAccelerator.
• Powered By Your Audience with Peter Broderick
How can a filmmaker increase their independence and build a sustainable career that goes far beyond one film? Distribution guru Peter Broderick presents a comprehensive guide to help filmmakers develop and maximize their “own” audience and establish a strong foundation from which they can build a long-lasting filmmaking career. Using examples from across the Us and around the world, he will demonstrate how filmmakers are aggregating their audiences film by film and becoming empowered by followers who champion their work.
• Million Dollar Movie: "Awake: The Life of Yogananda" Case Study
Panelists: "Awake" Director Paola di Florio, Producer Peter Rader (CounterPoint Films); Richard Abramowitz (President, Abramorama); Richard Matson (Head of Distribution & Acquisitions, Gathr); The inaugural Illuminate Film Festival in 2014 was a launching platform for "Awake: The Life of Yogananada," the unconventional biography of the legendary East Indian mystic, whose box office success has turned the heads of distribution executives nationwide. Is this a model that can be replicated? Find out.
• Champions of Conscious Cinema: Meet the Distributors
Panelists: Elizabeth Sheldon (Senior Vice President, Kino Lorber), Richard Cohn (President, Beyond Words), Richard Abramowitz (President, Abramorama), Brian Parsons (Head of Content Partnerships, Tugg); Abundant Internet connectivity and social media tools beckon today’s filmmaker to flirt with the very real possibility of self-distribution, while the lure of traditional distribution offers remains strong. Join the leaders of conscious film distribution as they explore the pros and cons of "all-rights” vs. "hybrid" distribution, debate the logic of day-and-date releasing and consider direct engagement via theatrical-on-demand. Learn your best options for theatrical, broadcast, video-on-demand and educational distribution as panelists share their outlook on the future of conscious cinema and the factors they consider before acquiring a film.
Sunday, May 31
• Conscious Cinema Summit (Industry Guests Only): a roundtable discussion with conscious film industry visionaries and media change-makers to discuss how conscious cinema can become a viable business independent film-sector business. Conversations will range from how to define conscious cinema to new business models to brainstorming new collaborative strategies to increase quality, quantity and availability of conscious cinema around the globe.
To register for the Conscious Film Convergence, visit Here!
The 2015 Festival will feature 22 films and more than 50 expert facilitators, practitioners, healers, performers, musicians, speakers and new thought leaders. In addition to the panels and films, the Festival’s series of “View and Do” events will let audiences more deeply integrate a movie’s message into their lives.
The full list of films exhibiting at the 2015 Illuminate Film Festival are online. For more information, visit Here!
After its southwest premiere at last year’s inaugural Illuminate Film Festival, "Awake: The Life of Yogananada," the unconventional biography of the legendary East Indian mystic, went on to screen at 250 venues across North America and booked more than 30,000 tickets through the Gathr® theatrical on-demand platform. At this year’s Festival, the filmmakers and their distribution partners will discuss how they combined strategic partnerships, grassroots marketing and a hybrid distribution model to gross over $1 million at the U.S. box office within the first three months of release.
Additional panels at the Conscious Film Convergence, the first gathering of significant industry executives in this independent film genre, will feature master distribution strategist Peter Broderick and industry icons Barnet Bain ("What Dreams May Come," "The Celestine Prophecy"); Elizabeth Sheldon, Senior Vice President at Kino Lorber; and Abramorama President Richard Abramowitz, among others, as part of the Festival’s five days of life-affirming cinematic works that encourage audiences to ponder existence more deeply than their daily routines.
The Illuminate Film Festival curates narrative features, documentaries and shorts in the mind-body-spirit genre, featuring inspirational human journey stories and themes related to mindfulness, self-discovery, body-mind science, yoga, meditation, spiritual practice, organic and plant-based food movements and sustainable living.
“As a launching platform for conscious cinema, our goal is to get enlightening content into movie theaters across the globe,” said Illuminate Film Festival Executive Director and Founder Danette Wolpert. “The Conscious Cinema Movement has reached a tipping point. Conscious concepts, once trivialized, have become mainstream thanks to moguls like Oprah, Russell Brand, Deepak Chopra and Russell Simmons. The Illuminate Film Festival is poised to establish conscious cinema as a viable business sector within the independent film business.”
The Conscious Film Convergence schedule is:
Friday, May 29
• Spotlight Conversation with Barnet Bain:
Bain, a television and film industry veteran whose credits include Oscar-winning "What Dreams May Come," Emmy-nominated "Homeless to Harvard," spiritual classic "The Celestine Prophecy" and the new documentary, "When I Was Young I Said I Would Be Happy," will tell you that to make a conscious film, you must first become a conscious individual. In this Q&A with Barnett, attendees will discover how to connect with their true calling and unleash their full creative potential.
• Conscious Film Financing: "The Connected Universe"
Perhaps it’s fitting that a film that explores the science behind the interconnection of all things has just become the highest funded documentary in Indiegogo history with over $290 thousand raised via the popular crowdfunding website. Join "The Connected Universe" director Malcom Carter and others for insight into cracking the crowdsourcing code.
Saturday, May 30
• The Conscious Cinema Accelerator:
Five applicants will be invited to participate in 20-minute speed meetings for personalized project and career coaching from veteran film professionals in conscious film production, finance, marketing and distribution. Submissions: https://filmfreeway.com/festival/ConsciousCinemaAccelerator.
• Powered By Your Audience with Peter Broderick
How can a filmmaker increase their independence and build a sustainable career that goes far beyond one film? Distribution guru Peter Broderick presents a comprehensive guide to help filmmakers develop and maximize their “own” audience and establish a strong foundation from which they can build a long-lasting filmmaking career. Using examples from across the Us and around the world, he will demonstrate how filmmakers are aggregating their audiences film by film and becoming empowered by followers who champion their work.
• Million Dollar Movie: "Awake: The Life of Yogananda" Case Study
Panelists: "Awake" Director Paola di Florio, Producer Peter Rader (CounterPoint Films); Richard Abramowitz (President, Abramorama); Richard Matson (Head of Distribution & Acquisitions, Gathr); The inaugural Illuminate Film Festival in 2014 was a launching platform for "Awake: The Life of Yogananada," the unconventional biography of the legendary East Indian mystic, whose box office success has turned the heads of distribution executives nationwide. Is this a model that can be replicated? Find out.
• Champions of Conscious Cinema: Meet the Distributors
Panelists: Elizabeth Sheldon (Senior Vice President, Kino Lorber), Richard Cohn (President, Beyond Words), Richard Abramowitz (President, Abramorama), Brian Parsons (Head of Content Partnerships, Tugg); Abundant Internet connectivity and social media tools beckon today’s filmmaker to flirt with the very real possibility of self-distribution, while the lure of traditional distribution offers remains strong. Join the leaders of conscious film distribution as they explore the pros and cons of "all-rights” vs. "hybrid" distribution, debate the logic of day-and-date releasing and consider direct engagement via theatrical-on-demand. Learn your best options for theatrical, broadcast, video-on-demand and educational distribution as panelists share their outlook on the future of conscious cinema and the factors they consider before acquiring a film.
Sunday, May 31
• Conscious Cinema Summit (Industry Guests Only): a roundtable discussion with conscious film industry visionaries and media change-makers to discuss how conscious cinema can become a viable business independent film-sector business. Conversations will range from how to define conscious cinema to new business models to brainstorming new collaborative strategies to increase quality, quantity and availability of conscious cinema around the globe.
To register for the Conscious Film Convergence, visit Here!
The 2015 Festival will feature 22 films and more than 50 expert facilitators, practitioners, healers, performers, musicians, speakers and new thought leaders. In addition to the panels and films, the Festival’s series of “View and Do” events will let audiences more deeply integrate a movie’s message into their lives.
The full list of films exhibiting at the 2015 Illuminate Film Festival are online. For more information, visit Here!
- 5/11/2015
- by Peter Belsito
- Sydney's Buzz
The independent feature documentary, "Awake: The Life of Yogananda," has grossed well over $1 million in theatrical release and theatrical on-demand release via Gathr®, it was reported today.
The film -- exploring the life and teachings of Indian yoga master Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the best-selling classic Autobiography of a Yogi, which last month ranked number 4 on the La Times best-sellers list for non-fiction – was co-directed by Paola di Florio ("Speaking in Strings," "Home of the Brave") and Lisa Leeman ("Out of Faith," "Crazy Wisdom: The Life and Times of Chogyam Trungpa"), and produced and self-distributed by award-winning CounterPoint Films. Richard Abramowitz of Abramorama spearheaded the theatrical component of the release.
“The commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm of the 'Awake' team were essential elements in the extraordinary reception this film received in the theatrical marketplace,” says Abramowitz. “Audiences showed up in force from the first day, and continue to do so in great numbers four months later. It’s a testimony to the power of the film and the community that has embraced it. I feel privileged to be a part of it.”
"Awake: The Life of Yogananda" premiered theatrically on October 10, 2014 in New York. The film has been shown across the country in over 100 theaters, as well as in more than 150 screenings via the Gathr® “Theatrical On Demand” platform.
“We attribute the success of the film to a combination of the timeliness of the subject matter and the hybrid distribution model that we have embraced,” says "Awake" producer Peter Rader. “As part of our strategy we have relied heavily on grass roots support and the booming interest in Yoga today, as well as the flexibility of an on-demand platform like Gathr to appeal to potential movie-goers across the country, not just those in major markets.”
The successful grassroots efforts is evidenced by the film’s robust performance in certain markets with significant community outreach. As an example, in November there were times "Awake" out-grossed "Interstellar" in weekend numbers at several venues, including the Sundance Sunset in Los Angeles and The Texas Theatre in Dallas.
“It’s profoundly gratifying to see how the message of this film is reaching people of all backgrounds across the country, and soon the world,” says Paola di Florio, Co-Writer and Co-Director along with Lisa Leeman.
“Awake has broken the mold by appealing to diverse audiences with its experiential, meditative journey and its message of empowerment,” adds Rader. “We now have plans for international distribution, to be announced shortly.”
For more information about "Awake: The Life of Yogananda," visit Here...
The film -- exploring the life and teachings of Indian yoga master Paramahansa Yogananda, author of the best-selling classic Autobiography of a Yogi, which last month ranked number 4 on the La Times best-sellers list for non-fiction – was co-directed by Paola di Florio ("Speaking in Strings," "Home of the Brave") and Lisa Leeman ("Out of Faith," "Crazy Wisdom: The Life and Times of Chogyam Trungpa"), and produced and self-distributed by award-winning CounterPoint Films. Richard Abramowitz of Abramorama spearheaded the theatrical component of the release.
“The commitment, professionalism and enthusiasm of the 'Awake' team were essential elements in the extraordinary reception this film received in the theatrical marketplace,” says Abramowitz. “Audiences showed up in force from the first day, and continue to do so in great numbers four months later. It’s a testimony to the power of the film and the community that has embraced it. I feel privileged to be a part of it.”
"Awake: The Life of Yogananda" premiered theatrically on October 10, 2014 in New York. The film has been shown across the country in over 100 theaters, as well as in more than 150 screenings via the Gathr® “Theatrical On Demand” platform.
“We attribute the success of the film to a combination of the timeliness of the subject matter and the hybrid distribution model that we have embraced,” says "Awake" producer Peter Rader. “As part of our strategy we have relied heavily on grass roots support and the booming interest in Yoga today, as well as the flexibility of an on-demand platform like Gathr to appeal to potential movie-goers across the country, not just those in major markets.”
The successful grassroots efforts is evidenced by the film’s robust performance in certain markets with significant community outreach. As an example, in November there were times "Awake" out-grossed "Interstellar" in weekend numbers at several venues, including the Sundance Sunset in Los Angeles and The Texas Theatre in Dallas.
“It’s profoundly gratifying to see how the message of this film is reaching people of all backgrounds across the country, and soon the world,” says Paola di Florio, Co-Writer and Co-Director along with Lisa Leeman.
“Awake has broken the mold by appealing to diverse audiences with its experiential, meditative journey and its message of empowerment,” adds Rader. “We now have plans for international distribution, to be announced shortly.”
For more information about "Awake: The Life of Yogananda," visit Here...
- 1/12/2015
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Also known as Grandmother’s House, for the picky.
I’m not entirely sure what to say about this one. I feel as though I should watch it a few more times, but even then, it’s so hard to pin down that…well, anyway. Two kids, David and Lynn, have their father die, leaving them orphans. They get sent to live with their grandparents, Spike and…Grandma. They might be serial killers. David has dreams of them hacking up a woman, and they see the woman everywhere. Eventually it turns out she may be the kids’ mom, who isn’t really dead, just crazy. So she’s the real killer—but who is the kids’ father? Is there incest involved? Who knows? I don’t think anyone does. Director Peter Rader included.
This is a weird one. You can tell from my writing style that I’m not sure...
I’m not entirely sure what to say about this one. I feel as though I should watch it a few more times, but even then, it’s so hard to pin down that…well, anyway. Two kids, David and Lynn, have their father die, leaving them orphans. They get sent to live with their grandparents, Spike and…Grandma. They might be serial killers. David has dreams of them hacking up a woman, and they see the woman everywhere. Eventually it turns out she may be the kids’ mom, who isn’t really dead, just crazy. So she’s the real killer—but who is the kids’ father? Is there incest involved? Who knows? I don’t think anyone does. Director Peter Rader included.
This is a weird one. You can tell from my writing style that I’m not sure...
- 7/6/2012
- by Adam Bezecny
- The Liberal Dead
Chicago – The Blu-Ray Round-Up is back with this week’s collection of HD titles that may not get the buzz of something like the latest Sandra Bullock romantic comedy or what Sam Raimi brought back from Hell but could be just what you’re looking for at the mall this weekend. A few modern horror movies, a notable box office bust, and a beloved BBC show highlight this week’s list. Pick your favorite.
“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein,” “Wolf,” and “Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut” was released on October 6th, 2009.
“Waterworld” will be released on October 20th, 2009.
“Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut”
Photo credit: BBC
Synopsis: “Back To Earth takes place after “Series X.” Kochanski’s dead and the crew are hurled through a portal and discover they’re just characters from a TV series. Knowing they...
“Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein,” “Wolf,” and “Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut” was released on October 6th, 2009.
“Waterworld” will be released on October 20th, 2009.
“Red Dwarf: Back To Earth - The Director’s Cut”
Photo credit: BBC
Synopsis: “Back To Earth takes place after “Series X.” Kochanski’s dead and the crew are hurled through a portal and discover they’re just characters from a TV series. Knowing they...
- 10/15/2009
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
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