Interview with Festival Director Shira Dubrovner (Mammoth Lakes Film Festival)

Awarded in 2016 by MovieMaker Magazine as a top 50 film festival worth the entry fee. In 2017, the Mammoth Lakes Film Festival will screen over 60 features and shorts in the spectacular setting of Mammoth Lakes—California’s premier mountain resort, high in the Eastern Sierra. It will take place on the Wednesday through Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.

http://www.mammothlakesfilmfestival.com/

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Shira Dubrovner: We combine our commitment to cutting-edge programming with our efforts to create a friendly, nurturing, fun atmosphere, giving our filmmakers a unique experience to be a part of what’s new and exciting in the independent film world and to make personal and professional connections in a truly unique setting. We believe films can change the world, but we also believe in art for art’s sake. Our slogan is “Movies Unfiltered,” and we make a point of showcasing work that digs deep, gets personal, and gets real and raw and confrontational when necessary. We put our filmmakers first, and make every effort to bring them to the festival and give them an unforgettable experience. We are truly a filmmaker friendly film festival. We offer all our filmmakers travel stipends and housing. We take over a student housing facility and house all the filmmakers under one roof, which creates a great synergy and a “Filmmaker-First Festival”.

What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

We create an intimate atmosphere where everyone feels comfortable to connect: filmmaker to filmmaker, filmmaker to audience, and filmmaker to industry professionals (from our Jury) and sponsors. Whether you are a filmmaker or cinephile you will be inspired and challenged with the lineup of films that we carefully procure for our audiences. We also have both guided and spontaneous outings to visit the amazing natural surroundings.

What are the qualifications for the selected films?

For this year, 2017, they must have been completed after January 1, 2016. They also must not have had a theatrical release.

Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

I think the bigger festivals rely on reaching out to established filmmakers and organizations for their programming, and submitted films can become an afterthought. We make a point of carefully evaluating all submitted films and drawing a large percentage of our program from blind submissions.

What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

Our commitment to find films with a specific and original vision. We love discovering the filmmakers of the future. Our director of programming Paul Sbrizzi discovered Lena Dunham and Ben Zeitlen before their careers took off. We love discovering and nurturing young filmmakers’ careers and watching them grow. We also love to showcase fresh and stimulating work by established filmmakers.

How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

Very smooth. We find the platform very easy to use and easy to keep all the submissions organized and we are able to communicate with all the programmers well through the platform.

Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Our goal is to be a destination festival that is known for showcasing a selection of the best new work from around the world as well as finding up-and-coming talent. We are well on our way and intend on achieving that by 2020.

What film have you seen the most times in your life?

The Wizard of Oz because it comes on T.V. every year and it brings out the kid in me.

In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A naturally gifted filmmaker who is unafraid of expressing a personal, inspired vision with style and sensitivity.

How is the film scene in your city?

Mammoth Lakes is a ski resort where many second-home-owners are industry professionals with a passion for filmmaking and a great interest in new talent. A lot of the year-round locals have a taste for art and culture; they welcome the festival and the filmmakers with open arms.

mammothlakes1.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Film Review: SHADOWS OF PARADISE

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival: http://www.wildsound.ca

shadows_of_paradise.jpgDirector: Sebastian Lange
Writer: Sebastian Lange

Review by Gilbert Seah

SHADOWS OF PARADISE is a not-your-usual documentary about Transcendental Meditation. It answers the question how do TM’s adherents continue when a spiritual luminary dies.

With intimate access to two of Transcendental Meditation’s new leaders – iconic filmmaker David Lynch and dedicated disciple Bobby Roth – director Sebastian Lange documents the Movement’s metamorphosis following the passing of its founder, Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Having himself grown up within the Movement, director Sebastian Lange approaches his subject through an introspective and essayistic lens, seeking to reconcile TM’s present-day incarnation with the teachings and practices that have shaped his worldview. The film documents the star-studded galas hosted by Lynch’s Manhattan-based foundation to a perilous cliffside cave in Madhya Pradesh.

Word of warning: The inspiration of the teachings propaganda-d in this film originated from Guru Dev. Guru Dev lived in a distant cave, north of India and dismissed normal life for meditation. So, this film might not be for everyone. In fact many will likely laugh at the film’s teachings, so if you are not with open mind, it is best to skip reading this review as well as the film – no insult to the person involved. Even if one is of open mind, there is a lot to take and believe in this film. Before reading this review, please bear in mind that this reviewer is no proponent of transcendental meditation (TM). This reviewer is a nonbeliever of TM, but will try to have an open mind in reviewing the film and in the examination of the subject.

Director David Lynch is a champion of the cause of TM. He has made MULHOLLAND DRIVE, a film critically acclaimed as one of the greatest films of all time. It is a film that is as weird as it is brilliant and covers multiple layers of consciousness. But I wonder now if Lynch has not lost some of his marbles. His hairstyle in the film – a streaked white coiffe does not help his looks either. Other celebrities involved whose presence are seen on screen include Paul McCartney and Ringo Starr. Lynch has a special ‘Lynch Foundation’ that collects money and donations for the cause.
Director Lange is quick to point out that TM is neither a religion, cult, government or industry. But he fails to define what TM really is.

For a film that champions TM, there is little about what TM actually is. It is only near the end of the film when the audiences sees a practical illustration of TM as executed by both Roth and Lynch. The director of the film Sebastian Lange is also a believer. His goal, which forms the climax of the film is to understand TM as well. His quest is to search for this remote cave that both Maharashi and Guru Dev spent years in. But it is reputed that the cave is swamped with bees and many who have ventured there have ended up in hospital.

Trailer: https://vimeo.com/184505918
 
_________

Also, Free logline submissions. The Writing Festival network averages over 95,000 unique visitors a day.
Great way to get your story out: http://www.wildsound.ca/logline.html

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival:http://www.wildsound.ca

Watch recent Writing Festival Videos. At least 15 winning videos a month:http://www.wildsoundfestival.com

Film Review: I AM NOT YOUR NEGRO (USA/Fr/Belg/Switz 2016) ***1/2

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival: http://www.wildsound.ca

iamnotyournego.jpgDirector: Raoul Peck
Writer: James Baldwin
Stars: Samuel L. Jackson, James Baldwin, Dick Cavett

Review by Gilbert Seah

The title of this new documentary immediately implies a film that would rock the boat in the topic of racism. It also implies an era when the ’n’ word was widely used before deemed inappropriate. The opening credits are done in black and white to emphasize the film’s seriousness.

I AM NOT YOUR NEGRO, by Raoul Peck attempts to reveal that the ‘negro’ thought understood by most Americans is in fact a stereotyped misunderstood one The doc is based on the unfinished book by James Baldwin (narrated by Samuel L.Jackson) and looks at the impressions made by 3 murdered negroes – Medgar Evers, Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr. The three black men were killed roughly three years apart. As informed by the voiceover, these are three different men, each of whom have done so much for the people who have betrayed them.

The premise of the film is to tell the history of the black men as seen from the eyes of Medgar, Malcolm and Martin Luther as purported by a book that is to be written by James Baldwin. The book never got past 30 pages, due to Baldwin’s death. The film illustrates what happened and which truths have been revealed. The film gives the feel that director Peck wants his film to be as controversial as possible, hopefully to stir discussion on the topic of racism.

Peck spends screen time mourning the deaths of the three – with voiceover relating the details. He also mentions through Baldwin, that the Americans do not know what to do with the black population while the ‘nigger’ has never been happy in his place, just trying to survive in America. John Wayne and George Washington were the typical white men as perceived by a black person. Often he sees the piles of black men pile up. When the black stands up, he attacks the power structure of the entire world.

The film offers many arguments illustrated with many archive stills. The most interesting revelation of the film is the argument between King and Malcolm X – showing the two different approaches of dealing with black racism. The doc also includes rare clips of ‘negro’ old movies (WAY OUT, A RAISIN IN THE SUN, THE DEFIANT ONES, all with Sidney Poitier who appears in all the controversial movies) which were acceptable then but considered unacceptable now. Also shown are unforgettable scenes like one on on a bus with the segregation of black and white seating at the back and front of the bus respectively.

The film ends up successfully criticizing America from the black man’s point of view. It also riles up emotions of the black man with appropriate examples given. The film ends with the footage of the Rodney King beaten by white police – still a very disturbing scene to watch.

The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival last year (with long line-ups), garnering praises together with other racial-themed films like MOONLIGHT, LOVING and A UNITED KINGDOM. The film has been nominated for the Best Documentary Oscar.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rNUYdgIyaPM

_________

Also, Free logline submissions. The Writing Festival network averages over 95,000 unique visitors a day.
Great way to get your story out: http://www.wildsound.ca/logline.html

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival:http://www.wildsound.ca

Watch recent Writing Festival Videos. At least 15 winning videos a month:http://www.wildsoundfestival.com

Film Review: LOGAN (USA 2017) ***

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival: http://www.wildsound.ca

logan.jpgDirector: James Mangold
Writers: Michael Green (screenplay), Scott Frank (screenplay)
Stars: Hugh Jackman, Patrick Stewart, Dafne Keen

Review by Gilbert Seah

 
For those unfamiliar with the Marvel comic universe – LOGAN is the name of the Wolverine mutant in the X-MEN series. He has been played by actor Hugh Jackson in the past as well as in this latest edition, which is supposed to be his last. To put everyone in line with the Wolverine Universe, LOGAN is intended to be the tenth installment in the X-Men film series, as well as the third and final Wolverine solo film following X-Men Origins: Wolverine (2009) and The Wolverine (2013).

Director James Mangold has made a slew of movies, but I fir
st noticed his film COP LAND which dealt with an ageing sheriff played by Sylvester Stallone, forced out of his complacency to do what is right. The premise of LOGAN is quite the same. Wolverine (Jackman) just wants to be left alone – drinking and driving his car for hire, until he encounters mutants running away from a government control experiment gone haywire.

The setting of the story is the near future with Wolverine. dealing with his age and ailment. His abilities are not what they once were”. So, a weary Logan cares for an ailing Professor X aka Charles Xavier (Patrick Stewart) with an albino mutant called Caliban (Steven Mercahnt) in a hideout on the Mexican border. (Caliban is named after Prospero’s slave, the ugly monster of the island he is shipwrecked in, in Shakespeare’s THE TEMPEST). His attempts to hide from the world and his legacy, however, are up-ended when a young mutant, Laura (Dane Keen) arrives, being pursued by dark force. The first fight arrives a late 45 minutes into the film.

As in the Marvel action films, the fight scenes have to be awesome. The ones here meet the standard, being violent enough with head rolling off and sharp blade slicing up bodies. The editing is quick, but the scenes held long enough for the audience to figure out what is happening.

The script, partly written by Mangold together with Scott Frank and Michael Green, shows occasional bouts of brilliance. At one point in the film, Logan discovers X-MEN comic books in Aurora’s bag. Reading them, he finds that the Eden place that they are going to is described in the comic book as well as certain past events. The film here takes an eerie look, with a chilly feel similar to what could be felt in David Lynch’s MULHOLLAND DRIVE. The story also pays a clever nod to the classic western SHANE that appears on the television. Logan, Charles and Laura on their journey to find Eden, encounter a family, just as the stranger SHANE does in the film, and their encounter affects the destiny of the family who like the movie SHANE, is being hustled out of the land by mercenary gunmen. The script does not shy away from senseless killings, which is a good thing. A lot of innocent people die in this movie.

LOGAN costs a whopping 127 million to make. It is a handsomely mounted production with impressive special effects and great fight choreography. It should make is money back based on the fact that the film is quite good. Only thing is that much publicity is required to let the world be aware that this is actually another X-MEN movie despite the words “X-MEN” missing from the innocently chosen title.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Div0iP65aZo

_________

Also, Free logline submissions. The Writing Festival network averages over 95,000 unique visitors a day.
Great way to get your story out: http://www.wildsound.ca/logline.html

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival:http://www.wildsound.ca

Watch recent Writing Festival Videos. At least 15 winning videos a month:http://www.wildsoundfestival.com

Interview with Festival Founder Matt Beurois (Paris Art and Movie Awards Film Festival)

The Paris Art and Movie Awards is the leading independent film festival in Paris. The « PAMA » has been ranked, as soon as its second year, the second festival not to miss in Paris, by The Culture Trip Magazine. Their goal is to help independent filmmakers screening their films, awarding them, show their films to high level industry talents and public figures.

http://parisartandmovieawards.com/

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

A: The best feedback proof we have is filmmakers coming back to the PAMA and submit again when they have a new film. They tell us our festival is a real opportunity to network. We had directors finding actresses, we had filmmaker matching with a producer, scriptwriters connecting with directors. And of course with the audience. We’re going to try and continue this so the Paris Art and Movie Awards stay human and films connected.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

A: As we move to a new movie theatre every year, audience and filmmakers will have the films screen in a new location in 2017 again. Every year we get bigger in attendance, so in seats capacity.

Also the Judges : we usually have about 5 international judges. We had Mark Dacascos, and French legendary actor Alain Doutey. This year, we already announced 10 judges, and I can tell you two more are coming, minimum.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

A: We’re looking for quality of course, but we’re not ashamed to say we’re expecting ambition. The PAMA is the leading independent film festival in Paris, and we want to screen and promote filmmakers who want to reach out, to jump out of the box, to achieve something. Out selection process rewards the ambition you have, and how you manage to make a movie, to fully complete it, which is no easy task.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

A: It is less and less true. Because there are more and more film festivals, and that’s, in some ways, good for filmmakers : they can target the events that fit them, where their films will be a match. What I personally think, is that there is a huge gap between the A-Class worldwide film festivals, and the indy festivals. This is why the Paris Art and Movie Award was created ; to stand there, remain accessible, but clearly offering high quality screenings, events, networking.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

A: The people. The filmmakers, and the lovers of cinema. During the 2016 opening speech of the festival, I said we care about the people who make the films, and I mean it. When you se all the artists and filmmakers that stayed in touch after the different editions of the festival, that is truly rewarding to us. That feeling makes me want to go on and on for that.

MT: How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

A: We just opened submissions, and that’s amazing : that’s the biggests start we had since the creation of the festival. It’s like people were somehow expecting us to accept entries and… Here we are !

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

A: I would love the festival to reach a large venue, and even several venue to host the many screenings and events. 2020, I’d also say we’ll have secured partnerships with USA and the festival being included in an international network connecting Paris, Los Angeles, Vancouver and London…

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

A: The Frighteners, by Peter Jackson. The perfect, most ignored and under-estimated feature by Jackson, which is the perfect balance between comedy and genre. And Terminator 2 by James Cameron. One of the film that founded my love for cinema.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A: Not a sentence, a word: script.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

A: The festival scene is booming, but I wonder how many festivals will still be around in two to three years. As for the movie business in Paris, the films in the middle -between 1 and 4M€ budget- are disappearing and that’s a dramatic loss for independent filmmakers. The influence of Luc Besson did some real good, for tax rebate and obviously to give something the new generation of artists can build from. Regarding the independent short films scene, it is hard to tell as it’s mostly in the dark. I will tell you that when we’ll have the 2017 selection at the PAMA.

 

parisart1.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Janet Rose (EQUUS International Film Festival)

 From the heart of the American West, in the cradle of the Northern Rockies, the EQUUS INTERNATIONAL Film Festival fills a niche in international film and media programming with an exclusive focus on the world of EQUUS, and all things equine. It was the first all-equine film event, launching in 2011 with a global view of the equine arena. An outreach project of an equine rescue and adoption organization, our mission is to enhance the equine/human bond and improve the welfare of the horse and other equines through excellence in film, television and other media.

Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

A: It is our greatest hope that the EQUUS INTERNATIONAL Film Festival is giving a voice and a platform to filmmakers for whom equine issues is their focus. For many years, there have been magnificent and important films made about equine topics and issues but there hasn’t been a platform in which to share these incredible stories. Through EIFF, we now hope there is.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

A: Attending the festival this year is an opportunity to both tell your story in a receptive environment, in a place where film and horses go hand in hand because Missoula is becoming a very significant place for film, filmmakers and film festivals. It’s also a breathtaking environment. So we expect great networking opportunities, great exposure for the films and a magnificent place to experience.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

A: As it should be with all films, excellent story-telling, great cinematography, an inspiring, interesting or significant subject. But the centerpiece of selected films is that they tell a great story on an equine issue or subject.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

A: Absolutely yes. Sometimes the judging criteria are skewed. Sometimes there are just too many good films entered into a festival for all of them to get the best judgment on their entry into the festival. In, other words, sometimes there is simply so much competition, such as with film festivals that have hundreds or thousands of entries, it’s almost impossible to pick out all of the good ones.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

A: That’s a really easy question — a passion for the subject matter (equine) and a realization and knowledge that a film festival and the films are incredible tools for raising awareness and promoting an understanding of issues. This is a venue where we can engage, inspire, educate and at the same time provide a platform for filmmakers to share the essence and the “heart” of what they do. That certainly is our goal.

MT: How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

A: It’s been great – it’s a very easy, affordable way to both receive and review film entries. I think the more we can promote FilmFreeway as a means for filmmakers to get their films entered, it will be a wonderful outlet for film entries. We also love the simplicity and ease of use.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

A: We hope that the EQUUS INTERNATIONAL Film Festival will continue to grow and become a louder and a stronger voice for films on equine issues. We hope to elevate and enhance its impact as a place for filmmakers whose genre is pretty subject specific to network with a wide range of others in the equine arena with a shared interest. We expect and hope to see an expansion of its impact and its outreach and certainly to build the audience that becomes a more global, international as well as national one. This is currently the premier venue for equine film but we would still like to expand our awards recognition, the festival’s benefits to filmmakers and the global reach of EIFF for the sake of filmmakers, equine advocates and many others concerned with or passionate about equine welfare.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

A: Oh, that’s a tough one since I don’t generally like to see a film many times over but because it’s a holiday tradition in our home, probably Gremlins. LOL, no horses in that one but it’s still in my mind, about animal welfare. J

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

A: It’s a film that rocks your world, touches you to the core, moves you, inspires you, makes you come away just saying “wow.”

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

A: The film scene in Missoula, Montana is thriving — part of it is probably the incredible setting of the Northern Rockies, some of it is simply that a number of major film festivals had their birth in Missoula, and it’s a creative environment with great subject matter so Missoula is definitely a film capital of the west – casual sophistication mixed with incredible creative inspiration and a backdrop like few others.

equus1.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Jax Griffin (The Drunken Film Festival)

Drunken Film Fest started after an angry tweet about the discontinuation of the major film festival in Bradford, West Yorkshire. It took off from there and had its first season in July 2016. Aimed at the independent filmmaker, DFF is currently accepting submissions worldwide for its second season, set to take place in Bradford across 10 days in 13 venues.

 Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Jax Griffin: DFF works really hard to represent filmmakers from around the globe and level the playing field a bit. So low budget, big budget, we are less concerned with that. What we want is to give an audience to films with something interesting to say, and I’m proud to say that we’re definitely succeeding in that goal.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

JG: Our festival is a little different. Our venues are almost all bars or cafes – non-theatre spaces. So the tone is more conversational and relaxed, but still very respectful to the filmmakers and their work. We incorporate local live music into the events – Bradford has an amazing live music scene – and this year we’re looking at bringing some interactive installation style pieces for some of the bigger parties.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

JG: As long as a film is engaging and interesting, I’m willing to give it space in our program. I try to remember that one person’s idea of interesting is different from another’s, and I think our programming reflects the diversity of submissions as well as the diverse nature of the city of Bradford.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

JG: Definitely and it’s one of the reasons this festival exists. If you scraped your film together on favours and blood, sweat, and tears, you don’t have a ton of money at the end for submission fees, so a lot of the bigger festivals are immediately not available to you. Yes, most festivals depend on submission fees to function and it’s an important part of the process, but it does create a bit of a boundary and that’s something we’re trying to find a balance for.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

JG: Is it too cheesy to say passion? I’m a filmmaker myself and I love the idea of finding and promoting new talent from unexpected places. When you see a film from a 10 year old Iranian girl, it kind of changes your view on what’s possible.

MT: How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

JG: I can not express enough how amazing it is working with Film Freeway. When I began the festival, I hadn’t heard of them and thought I was going to be stuck with Withoutabox, which I’d used extensively as a filmmaker. Luckily I came across Film Freeway first and haven’t looked back. The support team is always gracious, helpful, and expedient and the ease of use makes sorting submissions far less of a task than anticipated.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

JG: I’m ambitious, so I’d like us to be one of the top festivals for independent filmmakers. By 2020, my dream is that my plans to move the festival into production both locally and abroad will not only be in action, but successful and we’ll be active in promoting the local independent film industry.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

JG: Dr. Strangelove. I even have a tattoo of Slim Pickins riding a nuke on my forearm.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

JG: A great film is entertaining, with no dead space, and leaves you with something to think about.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

JG: Bradford has a very rich film culture. It’s actually the very first UNESCO City of Film and has a fascinating history of local production with films like Meaning of Life, Billy Liar, and Room At The Top. The National Media Museum is here where a few years ago they discovered the first ever colour film that was actually from 1902. Major productions are constantly in and out of the city doing filming and the indie scene is growing, if a bit hidden from view.

drunkenfilmfest1.jpg

Interviewee BIO: Jax Griffin moved to her ancestral homeland of Great Britain from the US nearly five years ago to complete a masters. She’s happily settling into British life, though she refuses to say “aluminium”. Aside from the film festival, Jax co-owns a small media production company in Bradford with fellow University of Bradford alum Rachel Bottomley. She actually hates long walks on the beach because sand is course and rough and irritating and it gets everywhere, but she does enjoy video games, live music, and puzzles.

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Jennifer De Carolis (RedCorner Film Festival)

RedCorner FilmFestival is an event not to be missed for international filmmakers. There is the opportunity to compete with the best emerging and famous artists, making you achieve a higher level of international filmography. They decided to encourage filmmakers that use film. A wide area of the event will be dedicated to all those who make films with 35 mm and 16 mm camera. Section 35 mm will also have special prizes.

 
Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Jennifer De Carolis: The RedCorner Film Festival was created with the intention and ambition to promote the works of filmmakers in a historical and international context, giving the possibility of securing international awards and certificates of merit on the part of a multi ethnic jury. The major developments concerning the possibility to compete in the category of films in 16 -35 mm. We have divided the festival into two six-month sessions, each of them with a live screening appropriate, in order to facilitate the promotion of the submitted work, guaranteeing the filmmakers of the more chance than other festivals.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

JD: First of all I expect professional success and that the filmmakers can feel pleased to have participated. What I am learning is that most every movie / script entered has its own soul, this makes me proud and is giving me extensive experience to make the tough eligibility decisions.I also hope that the synergistic relationship that is being created between the staff and the filmmakers become increasingly close.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

JD: The difficult process of selection of films is very complex and in several stages. Initially there is a visual assessment, evaluating the quality of the film (do not accept low-resolution film). Subsequently evaluating the audio quality and finally the average level of acting. are frequent cases in which, improvised filmmakers, have of the work which are too far apart from acting and look like small movies filmed in the family. Then our judges (are from 8 varying number 10) viewing the film and give a 1-5 rating, this is called “preliminary report”. Usually the next step is to relate the film a second time to confirm or deny the assigned rating. different however is done for scripts. The judges are chosen from a week earlier in odd numbers and attribute in a first phase a pass, or a YES / NO on the script. When the majority of the judges expressed positive assessment the script passes the evaluation phase, otherwise it is excluded from the festival.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

JD: I think that not all festivals are equal. Many festivals tend to a more economic aspect not valuing the filmmakers and their films. The RCFF is a partner and supporter of filmmakers, promoting their initiatives and acting much on social networks. We think that the small productions also in this way can have their spaces.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

JD: I have always loved the cinema. Ever since I was a little girl. The reasons arise independently. I carefully chose my staff, element by element, working with my partner Alexandre Di Martini (director and stunt). Alexandre, thanks to his experience, he helped me a lot to manage the different directors who have signed up at the festival. Actually RCFF cooperate with USA Directors, Producers and actors.

MT: How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

JD: Through the site FilmFreeway, one of the best in terms of promotion and filmmakers, we assign our judges some categories of registration. Some will have films and documentaries, other scripts and other trailers. Alexandre Di Martini has its film category in 16-35mm he cares a lot and we are honored to be one of the few to have this category Festival. The selection process is quite difficult. 70% of judges must agree on the choice of the film. In this way we avoid that the value of a film is only linked to an arithmetical average

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

JD: I hope with all my heart that the RCFF can aspire to great international stages. Our goal is to organize the festival in the most important cities in the world.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

JD: Resident Evil. I love Milla Jovovich in action films

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

JD: The plot, the acting level of the cast and what is transmitted to the viewer. In one sentence: the soul of a movie!

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

JD: Generally they shoot films that have themes those linked to the Mafia. Not infrequently, we witness some detective film. Although our local producers, such as the Unconventional Movies, produced by years of quality indie horror themes and action. I myself am making a short film on violence against women entitled “Unloved” and is due out in March.

 

redcorner1.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Travis Legge (Forest City Comic Con Film Festival)

The Third Annual FC3 (Forest City Comic Con) Film Festival takes place in Rockford, Illinois May 26-27, 2017. The festival will be held at the Rockford Public Library Nordlof Center Performing Arts Theatre

Submit via FilmFreeway

 
Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Travis Legge: The Fc3 Film Festival provides a networking opportunity for filmmakers in the Northern Illinois/Southern Wisconsin area, as well as access to a broad audience of film fans from the greater Rockford area who may not normally be exposed to the work of these filmmakers.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2017)?

TL: We will be holding multiple screening blocks in the beautiful Nordlof center in downtown Rockford. There will also be an opportunity for networking and socializing in the spacious theatre lobby between screening blocks.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

TL: We have a panel of judges who determine which films will screen based on 10 metrics of storytelling, including pacing, cinematography, sound quality, performances and more.

MT: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals? And if so, why?

TL: I do, I believe a lack of diversity in some judging panels can lead to certain films being judged unfairly. As director of Fc3 I am bending every effort to ensure that’s not an issue we have. All genres, subject matters, and levels of content are welcome.

MT: What motivates you and your team to do this festival?

TL: I like watching movies. I like sharing the experience. Also, as a filmmaker in Rockford, it is in my interest to support the film community in any way that I can.

MT: How has your FilmFreeway submission process been?

TL: Excellent. I love working with FilmFreeway. It’s truly made this herculean task of setting up the festival manageable.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

TL: I’m honestly not sure, but I am excited to find out.

MT: What film have you seen the most times in your life?

TL: That’s an excellent question. If I had to hazard a guess I’d probably say Big Trouble in Little China, but ask me again next week and I might recall differently.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film?

TL: Great storytelling makes a great film. Everything else is window dressing.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

TL: Vibrant. Diverse. Beautiful.
 

forestcity1.jpg

_____

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 20-50 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto, and Los Angeles at least 2 times a month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Film Review: FIST FIGHT

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival: http://www.wildsound.ca

fist_fight.jpgDirector: Richie Keen
Writers: Van Robichaux (screenplay), Evan Susser (screenplay)
Stars: Ice Cube, Charlie Day, Tracy Morgan

Review by Gilbert Seah

As the title suggests, the climax and the soul purpose of the film is the FIST FIGHT that will happen at three o’clock after school at the school parking lot between the film’s two lead characters.

This is a pretty thin premise for a full length feature, so a running time of 90 minutes is not surprising. The goal of the script is to keep the audience attentive for the rest of the movie before the FIST FIGHT.

The beginning of the film sets up the incidents leading to the provocation of the challenge of the fight. This takes 15 minutes or so. It all boils down to a silly excuse of one teacher, Andy Campbell (Charles Day) telling on his fellow teacher, Ron Strickland (Ice Cube) as one of the two will be fired by the principal (Dean Norris).
Strickland challenges him to a fight after school in the parking lot. The news goes viral, in this modern day and age. The actual fight also takes a full 15 minutes. To director Keen’s credit, the fight choreography is well executed with a solid blend of excitement and hilarity.

The script by by Van Robichaux and Evan Susser introduces an assortment of weird characters to the comedy mayhem. Some work and some don’t. Miss Monet (played by Christina Hendricks, who has been voted before as America’s sexiest woman), the sexy drama teacher who has the hots for Strickland is one that works. She brings spice and unpredictability to the proceedings and her gait and mannerisms are priceless. Jillian Bell as the meth taking Councelor Holly who is constantly on the look-out for sex with her students is also funny.The principal’s (Dean Norris) role could have been funnier. A lesson could be taken from another adult school comedy STRANGERS WITH CANDY’s principal, who is the funniest bumbling idiot ever.

The film takes a while to land on its feet. Charles Day, playing the protagonist Andy Campbell is all over the place, partly due to the script. For the audience to root for him, he is given too many ‘vices’ for his character to be liked. For example, he is deemed a coward and snitch. To escape the fight, he plans to plant drugs on Strickland.

Ice Cube, has prove his mettle in comedy in the past, particularly in the JUMP STREET movies, and proves himself a better lead than Day.

It is hard to figure the film’s target audience. The language is quite foul with lots of swearing and references to sex and drug use. I am assuming the filmmakers take their audience to be partying teens in or just out of the school system. As one characters says in the film, “The best place to buy drugs is in an American high school.” School kids know more than adults give them credit for.

As the saying goes, if one does not have ones hopes up too high, one will not end up disappointed. I chose the screening of FIST FIGHT over A GREAT WALL as the last thing I would want to see is a pretentious movie about a glorified white man in China directed by Zhang Yimou who has turned exciting martial-art movies into boring pretty pictures (HERO). At least, FIST FIGHT is unpretentious. Crass though it may be, I got what is expected – silly, raunchy and adulterated entertainment.

Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9aIzXYo6VCE

_________

Also, Free logline submissions. The Writing Festival network averages over 95,000 unique visitors a day.
Great way to get your story out: http://www.wildsound.ca/logline.html

Deadlines to Submit your Screenplay, Novel, Story, or Poem to the festival:http://www.wildsound.ca

Watch recent Writing Festival Videos. At least 15 winning videos a month:http://www.wildsoundfestival.com