film festival review

Interview with Festival Director Simon McGuire (Limerick Film Festival)

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The Limerick Film Festival is about to enter its 7th year.

https://limerickfilmfestival.net/

Interview with Festival Director Simon McGuire:

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

Simon McGuire: The Limerick Film Festival has always tried to achieve recognition for film makers locally. Limerick and the mid-west has always had competition from the other regions of Ireland in the industry and we felt that by creating a platform for film makers that it may attract some of the industry to our city and region.

Matthew: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

Simon: This year, like previous years, we try to put on a programme of guest talks that will inspire both new and professional film makers in various crafts. The process of film making is always at the heart of our festival and by bringing craftspeople, who are at the top of their game, to the festival to talk and meet and greet the audience then we have achieved our mission.

Matthew: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Simon: This is a tough question and not one easily answered. We have a team of judges who firstly short list the films into 12 categories and then select the the winner for each from those short lists. The result is different each year in that the judges have always given each film equal consideration for the categories they have been shortlisted for. The competition has increased every year and thus the challenge to judge is becoming more and more difficult however this is the challenge all film festivals meet each year.

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

If a festival has criteria (rules of submission) that are met then it should be considered in the pot with the other films. however there are short films that don’t meet the rules and guidelines for certain festivals and while they may not be successful for one festival because of this it doesn’t mean that the films won’t be accepted to other festivals. A piece of advise would be for the film makers to read carefully both the rules and background for each festival they want to enter. If you film does meet these then the film maker needs to move to the next festival rather than trying and then being obviously disappointed.

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

Simon: Each year there is a huge challenge to get the mountain of work started and completed for the Limerick Film Festival. As the festival is based in Limerick Institute of Technology, it is the staff and students who take on the roles of the team. Each year there are new students so there is always a learning curve for the team but this is the foundation of the mission for the festival. Giving opportunity to student film makers to be a part of their own festival and capitalise on meeting the professionals that attend. Getting their name out there.

Matthew: How has the festival changed since its inception?

Simon: Since its first year in 2010 the festival has grown from a one day to a three day event. There is always a challenge to get the audiences in the door and we have a staple end of festival event that does just that. Our Short Film Awards Show has been there since year one and has become recognised and our unique selling point. Its a four camera live production that is streamed live (for those who can’t make it to the venue) and honours the filmmakers, both nominated and winners, for their films that were shortlisted.

As the years has passed and we are in our seventh year, we have had the honour of hosting a series of influential guest speakers including, Brendan McCarthy, Co Author of MAD MAX Fury Road; Pat Shortt, Comedian, Writer, Producer; Lelia Doolan, Producer; Pat Comer, Director; Nathan Nuggent, Editor; Eamon Little, Director; Patrick Cassidy, Composer; Nick Ryan, Director and many more.

We have grown with our film makers over the past seven years and as their talent improves so has our small festival and we hope to continue to grow with them.

Matthew: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Simon: In 2020 it is hoped that Limerick City will be the European City of Culture, of which they are bidding for this year. We plan to be one of the year’s events to look forward to. There are also talks in place where we may expand by working with other events and festivals in the region. Collaboration with the communities and other event organisers is key for Limerick and its culture. By working with others we can create a more fruitful and media rich culture which could be appealing for all ages and tastes.

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

Simon: Since a child I have always loved John Sturges’ ‘The Great Escape’ (1963). I have several copies of the film in different formats on different devices. However ‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ is becoming another favourite.

I like films that have a large cast and intertwine them to great effect for the drama. As a professional editor too I admire the challenge of telling stories like these and keeping the audience’ attention throughout.

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

Simon: A film can be shot well, its sound touch you, the acting push the audiences emotion under the director’s artistic vision however there this cannot be achieved without the jigsaw solving talent of the editor. A great film has a great editor who’s work is seen yet goes unnoticed.

Matthew: How is the film scene in your city?

Simon: Limerick’s film scene has grown in the past 10 years and is continuing to grow. With the building of Troy Studios in the city and the increase of third level students in the region who are constantly producing short films and broadcast content there has never been a better time for film makers to set up in the region.

With support network groups such as Behind The Scenes along with film festivals such as the Limerick Film Festival. The Richard Harris International Film Festival and the Fresh Film Festival, Limerick’s film culture is one to currently be admired.
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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go tohttp://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Sam Berliner (Translations: Seattle Transgender Film Festival)

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Translations: Seattle Transgender Film Festival is not only a groundbreaking film festival that provides the Pacific Northwest with a venue for films by, for, and about transgender people and the issues facing the transgender community, but one of only a few transgender film festivals in the world. The goal of the event is to place emphasis on visibility and positive representations.

https://filmfreeway.com/festival/translations

Interview with Sam Berliner:

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

Sam Berliner: Translations creates an opportunity for transgender and gender-non-conforming stories to be embraced and shared with the Seattle community. It is one of only a handful of transgender film festivals in the world and I am honored to have this platform to honor and celebrate our filmmakers and their work.

Matthew: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

Sam: The 2016 edition of Translations: Seattle Transgender Film Festival is all about connecting audiences with stars and stories. This year we are excited to celebrate some of the champions who have led the way for transgender communities and highlight connections through an array of voices and perspectives. Here’s three early announcements:

BEING TRANSPARENT — Live event! Get the inside scoop with some of the remarkable talent from the hit series TRANSPARENT including pioneering star Alexandra Billings. Don’t miss this lively discussion on being transgender both in front of and behind the camera.

MAJOR! — Northwest Premiere! Miss Major Griffin-Gracy is a 73-year-old Black transgender woman who has fought for the rights of transwomen of color since Stonewall. MAJOR! shows one woman’s journey, a community’s history, and how caring for each other can be a revolutionary act.

SUITED — Northwest Premiere! A hit at Sundance, SUITED tells the story of Bindle & Keep, a Brooklyn tailoring company that makes custom suits for gender-nonconforming and transgender clients. An intimate documentary of living bravely in one’s own skin.

As always, there will be a number of free screenings, discussions, parties, community and fun!

Matthew: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Sam: Translations is a film festival by, for and about the transgender communities and our allies so the films must have trans content or be created by a trans filmmaker. Beyond that, it really depends on the films! Of course with our festival only lasting four days (only two of which are full days) it means that we only have so much space and that makes it quite competitive, especially because we want to share the widest variety possible—narratives, documentaries, shorts, features, all genders, a wide range of ages, from as many countries and cultures as possible etc. Above all, we want to show films that will inspire, educate, and uplift our audiences.

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

Sam: As a filmmaker and festival programmer, I really understand how complicated film festival programming can be. There are only so many films that can be screened and the competition really depends on what else is coming out that year. (For example, if two films are similar in length and about the same subject it is likely that only one will be chosen and those are things that neither filmmakers nor festivals can really control.) Another issue is length. A short film is most programmable if it is 8-10 minutes or less. It can fit into a shorts program, it can screen before a feature, there are options. When shorts get long, into 20-30 minutes, is when they are much harder to program. So that is another aspect. As a filmmaker myself who has had plenty of festival rejections in addition to great festival success, I’ve learned that it doesn’t always have to do with the film itself and whether the screening committees like it or not. There are always many many factors in play.

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

Sam: There are only a handful of transgender film festivals in the entire world and Translations is one of the oldest! It is a very unique experience for transgender and gender-variant folks to be able to come together and celebrate our community through the power of cinema. Film is such a powerful medium. As gender-variant people, recognizing ourselves on-screen and being able to relate to the characters is unbelievably affirming. Translations offers a space to celebrate, honor, mourn, learn, grow, relate, cry, empathize, accept, laugh… It is a space that we can excitedly return to each year to keep tabs on this ever shifting and beautifully evolving community. It offers visibility, community building, and education, and it’s an opportunity to strengthen alliances among people of all genders. What’s more, it’s a very exciting time for transgender film as more and more films are being made, more stories are being told, and transgender stories are reaching even larger audiences.

Film is a powerful medium. Being immersed in trans stories strongly promotes empathy and film can act as a bridge of understanding between communities. When you strip it all down, we are all simply people who want to love and be loved. I really believe that film helps audiences remember that.

Matthew: How has the festival changed since its inception?

Sam: I have only been involved in Translations as Festival Director for the past three years. This year will be the 11th festival! The first two festivals were held as part of the Gender Odyssey Conference. Since the third year, Translations has been a stand-alone event run by Three Dollar Bill Cinema and it has continued to grow and evolve into the fabulous four day event it is today.

Matthew: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Sam: Oh wow, what an exciting question! In four years (omigoodness, 2020 is only four years away?!?!?) I would love to see Translations expanded to a longer festival, perhaps 5-6 days, and at multiple venues. I would also love to have a Master Class offered during the festival each year where an established transgender filmmaker can come teach others how to use the tools of cinema to tell their stories and explore the world. There is so much fantastic transgender content being made in 2016 that I can’t even imagine how amazing things will be then! I would hope that films will be firmly established in the Trans New Wave, where the filmmakers can assume that the audience has a basic Trans 101 in their back pockets already so that characters are free to embody their sexual orientations and gender identities without calling attention to it— therefore giving the film the freedom to focus on the story. It is revolutionary! Now THAT’s the future!

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

Sam: Hm, that’s a hard question! I love movies and am quite the creature of habit so I’ve seen MANY way more times than I could count… I’d have to say THE BIRDCAGE with Robin Williams and Nathan Lane. It is one of my family’s favorites and I know every single word, tone and gesture by heart.

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

Sam: A great film for me has a strong story that motivates a stylized aesthetic with relatable characters and humor.

Matthew: How is the film scene in your city?

Sam: I actually don’t live in Seattle! I work remotely from Berkeley, CA and come up to town three times a year. But I will say that Three Dollar Bill Cinema, that runs Translations, also runs Twist: Seattle Queer Film Festival in October which is a huge event! Three Dollar Bill also does Outdoor Cinema: a campy outdoor film series in the park proudly presenting fun and free movies under the stars, every summer. There are some really great theaters in Seattle including the Northwest Film Forum that does a lot of independent exhibition and support for filmmakers, plus it’s where we hold Translations! There’s also the Cinerama where you can get delicious chocolate popcorn and watch a 3D movie on their gigantic screen and the historic SIFF Cinema Egyptian that frequently has midnight screenings of cult classics.

—

Sam Berliner is a Bay Area-based filmmaker and animator best known for his engaging and accessible films about gender non-conformity. His award-winning short films, DATING SUCKS: A GENDERQUEER MISADVENTURE, GENDERBUSTERS, PERCEPTION and FLOAT have screened at over 200 film festivals around the world. When not actively making films, Sam is the festival director of Translations: the Seattle Transgender Film Festival, run by Three Dollar Bill Cinema. He also leads workshops and gives presentations about gender at various organizations and schools. Sam graduated in 2005 from Smith College with a BA in Film & Theatre and earned an MFA in Cinema from San Francisco State University in 2013.

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to http://www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Leslie-Ann Coles (Founder & Executive Director Female Eye Film Festival)

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14th Annual Female Eye Film Festival – “Always Honest, Not Always Pretty“ June 14th – June 19th, 2016

The FEMALE EYE VOTED TOP FIFTY FILM FESTIVALS FOR THREE CONSECUTIVE YEARS (2013, 2014, 2015) by MovieMaker Magazine. 

Interview with Leslie-Ann Coles:

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

Leslie-Ann Coles: The Female Eye Film Festival celebrates its 14th annual edition June 14th – June 19th, 2016 (Toronto, Canada) in which we showcase independent films directed by women. We are known for our excellence in film programming, our professional development and industry sessions, and provide formal and informal networking opportunities to our filmmakers. *I think our most notable success is that we introduce films directed by women to the general public, industry members and stakeholders, and by doing this we help to dispel the myth that women create films for a femme centric audience. In other words, we help break the stereotype that women make “chick flicks”. Also although we present films directed by women, our script development program is open to both men and women. Script must feature a female protagonist.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

LAC: Attendees will see an eclectic selection of features and shorts in all genres directed by women from around the globe. Independent auteur films that they will not often find in mainstream cinema, or in blockbuster theatres.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

LAC: Films must be compelling and of high production value. Films must also be directed by women.

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

LAC: With the plethora of women’s film festivals being birthed around the world, I think there is a strong need to provide a forum in which to showcase films by women directors. Women are making films. Therefore, I do not feel women filmmakers are being represented adequately yet in the international film festival circuit outside of festivals dedicated to female filmmakers.

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

LAC: Passion. Dedication, and a strong compulsion to represent women filmmakers until there is gender equity in the industry at large.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

LAC: In the early years we received under 200 submissions per year. Now, we receive over 400 submissions annually. Hence, the festival has grown from a four day event to a 6 day festival to accommodate more films. Our industry programs have also evolved and we have been recognized in the “Top Fifty Film Festivals Worth the Entry Fee” for four consecutive years by Movie Maker magazine!

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

LAC: I hope to see the festival expand to ten days.

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

LAC: I tend not to watch the same movie over and over again but if there was a movie that I’ve watched multiple times, it would be The Godfather.

MT: In one sentence, what makes a great film? Feel free to use any of these…sorry can’t keep this to one sentence 🙂

LAC: A great films starts with a great story and it manifests in character, picture, and sound. It is an immersive experience where everything comes together, frame by frame.

A great film is defined by the audience. The audience make a film great. Filmmakers know when their experiencing a great film when their minds don’t wander off into directions of their own filmmaking, ha. And the audience know when they’re experiencing a great film when they are subsumed by the experience and the outer world disappears.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

LAC: Toronto, Ontario, Canada boasts the most film festivals per capita in the world now. Toronto is rich with film festivals, there’a every week of the year. I believe this is reflective of our innate appreciation for multiculturalism coupled with a deep appreciation for cinema.

 

 

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Tadd Good (Snake Alley Festival of Film)

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The Snake Alley Festival of Film is dedicated to showcasing the best short films from around the world. Films will screen at the beautifully restored Capitol Theater in the heart of downtown Burlington, Iowa.

snakealleyfestivaloffilm.com/
Interview with Festival Director Tadd Good:
Matthew Toffolo: What is your Film Festival succeeding at doing for filmmakers?

Tadd Good: The Snake Alley Festival of Film brings together filmmakers from all corners of the world to network, learn, and enjoy each others films. Many professional and personal relationships have blossomed out of our little film festival. Our festival is all about the filmmakers and giving them an outlet to show their hard work to other like-minded people.

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

TG: Our festival includes several blocks of short films, live screenplay stage readings, and this year we are working on workshops and guest speakers. We also organize after-parties for each night, and an awards ceremony to wrap up the event.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

TG: SNAFF accepts short films from almost every genre of film. The length limit is 45 minutes.

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

TG: I think all of the local film festivals I’ve attended keep an open mind.

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

TG: Our love for film and our local community is what motivates us.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

TG: Since our inceptions we try to grow each year. We look at what works as well as what doesn’t work and try to find a balance. We’ve definitely grown in number of submissions.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

TG: Bigger and better. We want to be a festival filmmakers remember and return to each year.

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

TG: John Carpenter’s Halloween.

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

TG: A great story told by a passionate filmmaker.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

TG: Our film scene is slowly growing. I actually program film at our local non-profit theater, so we’re trying to do more cult films, anniversary showings, and bigger events.

 

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Patrick Vella (Malta Horror Film Festival)

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The Malta Horror Film Festival is somehow different from many other festivals, because it is always moving from one spooky venue to another every year! The festival attracts about 3000 horror adrenaline enthusiasts who also come to experience our yearly 30 minute Horror House Experience! The films are constantly running from 7pm till 2am for 3 days! The feeling is spectacular and the atmosphere is somehow atmospheric! This year 2016 we are including the Feature film sections and including new genres, such as Horror Comedy and Horror Cartoons!

Website: http://www.maltahorrorfest.com/ 

Interview with Patrick Vella:

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

Patrick Vella: Well, besides more exposures in other countries, we do offer the best filmmakers an opportunity to film with us in Malta. Malta has been quite a target to many film Makers and Producers including Spielberg, Pitt, and lately Bay. Malta has lots to offer and is a great location for many various genres of films!

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

PV: As in the Past, our festival is a moving festival from one site to the other, We have to admit that our ScareThrough is much more famous than the film festival however thanks to the Horror House, the Festival is gaining every year more success!!! The festival is pretty vivid, and live, as you can experience (before or after) the Scarethrough! This is our 6th extended Edition!

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

PV: Shorts, Feature, Animation, and Comedy Horror.
Shorts not longer than 20 minutes, Feature we leave it open . Any language is considered as long as it is english subtitled.

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

PV: It is a tricky question! We always receive tons of films! Hundreds of Films! Some are great, some are mediocre, some are “WTF”…. however we have always issues with judges who have always different opinions!!! 🙂 The problem lies in different opinions, rarely you find unison in understanding!

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

PV: The love and passion in arts combined with media and filming making. We are artists, we wanted to create something for Malta. This is not our only project, but surely it is one that we keep it on top!

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

PV: To be honest, not much, as we love the formula! What we are working on, is better promotion for the film festival per se… as we believe it could do better! We are not ashamed to say that the festival needs more visitors as much as it gets the live scare through and the parties! However we are working on it by really choosing carefully our selections.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

PV: A fixed Place perhaps, however as I said previously we do love the change of sites, as it helps the audience to come the year after, as they love the idea of having a themed festival, in various places, being a dungeon, an abandoned Mansion or a Haunted Cinema!!!! Yet, there will have to come a day where the festival has a fixed Place ( of course it will be used for various projects)

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

PV: I must admit, without sounding Cliche … I keep watching The Exorcist ( original movie) and though the effects are not relevant for todays technology, few films, beat that story! Story is essential, plot and the sense of point of no return are essential in such genres!

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

PV: STORY – PLOT – SCRIPT – GOOD ACTORS – GOOD FILMING – GOOD PRODUCTION – GOOD POST ( as in order)

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

PV: Film scene in Malta, internationally speaking is superb. Indigenous Film making still needs a lot of advancement…

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Interview with Festival Director Nathan Fleet (Hamilton Film Festival)

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The 11th Annual Hamilton Film Festival (HFF XI) is one of Canada’s most important up-and-coming film festivals. This year’s festival will feature over $15,000 in prize value, plus the opportunity to network with, and pitch your projects to, film buyers, agents, distributors and other film-makers.

www.hamiltonfilmfestival.com

Interview with Festival Director Nathan Fleet

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

Nathan Fleet: Quality networking and in the past 2 years, getting distributors interested in our content, which is why we are bringing the Canadian Film Market this year.

So many filmmakers have met and made films because of their meeting at HFF

MT: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

NF: The biggest change is the Canadian Film Market. The focus will be on film sales, film pitches and coproductions with Canada. This will be an affordable opportunity for people to participate in a Market setting along side our film festival. As far as the festival goes, our programming team is exceptional so you will see some of the world’s best films, including Canada. Our policy is to not pre select a theme or genre. We let the submissions dictate the way our festival looks.

MT: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

NF: Honestly, if it is good, we want to see in on our screens. Again, our programming team have keen eyes for great material. It blows me away sometimes that some of the top tier don’t accept some of these. We also have room for First Time Filmmakers and Student films and we don’t scale them as harshly as we might for an established production company.

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

NF: I do and while I am sure each has their own reason, it is nearly impossible for a festival to program everything they receive.

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

NF: Initially it was a cool thing to do to gather some films and screen them one evening. What better way to network with a hundred filmmakers in one week!

I’m a filmmaker as well so this is definitely the type of event I want to attend.

MT: How has the festival changed since its inception?

NF: We grew and grew but maintained our local connection. Our tag is Locally Focused, Internationally Recognized. We always want to make sure that we have room for local filmmakers to grow and exhibit. We earn the “Hamilton” in our title.

MT: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

NF: Unless there is a drastic change in formats and viewing habits, I love the road we are on. I would love for the Festival and the Market to become a destination and I think that is where we are already headed.

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

NF: Star Wars: Episode IV

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

NF: There is no one thing as it is a combination of all craftspeople presenting their best within the project.

MT: How is the film scene in your city?

NF: It’s growing everyday. We have a new film district with Digital Canaries, we have more and more talent from Toronto moving into the city, we have an 11 year old Festival and now a Film Market. You will be able to take your film from Concept to Acquisition in Hamilton.

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Nathan Fleet is a professional musician, filmmaker and educator from Hamilton Ontario Canada.
​He runs the Hamilton Film Festival, the Hamilton Film Expo,  the Canadian Film Market and Blue Pick Media.

In 2015, Nathan travelled to Comic-Con International in San Diego to support the screening of his short comedy Air Knob, which has screened around the world in theatres, broadcast and in the air!

​He is currently working to complete his rock album Talk To The Machine, which is expected in 2016.

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Fesival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Short Film Movie Review: LIKE IN THE MOVIES (5min, Italy, Documentary)

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LIKE IN THE MOVIES played to rave reviews at the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film Festival in January 2016.

MOVIE POSTER

LIKE IN THE MOVIES, 5min, Italy, Documentary

Directed by Francesco Faralli

Following his cinephile passion, Daniele Bonarini (from the Association “Il Cenacolo Francescano”), realizes digital feature films shot with the enthusiastic support of friends and volunteers using disabled persons as actors.

Movie Review by Amanda Lomonaco:

This is the second of Francesco Faralli’s films that I’ve seen, and the second with Tiziano Barbini’s participation, and I can’t help but smile every time. There is something truly wonderful in the work that Faralli does by making films with the disabled. He creates true masterpieces, and, in pretending, provides us with a deep look into who these people really are.

There is a split second where you’re watching Faralli’s films where I noticed myself laughing at a disabled person, a concept that I had always imagined appauling. Nevertheless, it’s impossible to not laugh while watching Faralli’s work. Him and his actors create wonderfully heartwarming stories that demonstrate just what the disabled are truly capable of, and I can truly say it’s a hell of a lot more than I can do.

Tiziano Barbini is one Faralli’s most popular leading men, and together the pair have won several awards in film festivals world wide. Tiziano, at least in Faralli’s films, is a very positive, loving, and emotional person, who seems to experience every detail of the world with the intensity most of us reserve for more extreme achievements. He truly exemplifies the concept of living life to the fullest, and appreciating every moment, smiling at the smallest of details, and pointing out beauty everywhere he goes.

Perhaps it’s just because I’m a sentimental ball of mush, but I could watch Faralli’s films a million times and never get bored of them. Tiziano stole my heart in the very first of his documentaries that I watched, and without ever even meeting him, I know he’ll always be able to bring a smile to my face. I don’t know if everyone would enjoy this film as much as I did. The audience at Wild Sound certainly seemed to give it a very positive reception. In any case I urge you to look in to some of Faralli’s work. What he is doing both for the independent film industry and for the disabled community in Italy is amazing, and it deserves more attention from all of us.

Watch the Audience FEEDBACK Video of the short film

Short Film Movie Review: DISAPPEARED (5min, Canada, Fantasy/Romance)

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DISAPPEARED played to rave reviews at the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film Festival in January 2016. 

DISAPPEARED, 5min, Canada, Fantasy/Romance
Directed by Jon Silverberg

On the day he plans to propose to his girlfriend, a lowly shipping clerk finds a fountain pen that cause objects to vanish. He embraces the strange phenomenon as a novelty, until it threatens to impede his romantic plans, and very existence.

Movie Review by Amanda Lomonaco:

This film definitely played on one of my biggest fears, and despite its light-hearted nature I couldn’t help but feel a heavy knot in my gut after watching this. I have mentioned repeatedly in my reviews how much I am a fan of horror, but perhaps the very fact that Disappeared isn’t a horror film is what got my nerves jumping. Fortunately I seem to be the only person in the audience with a phobia for disappearances, as everyone else seems to have simply enjoyed it for what it was, even more so for its open-endedness.

While Jon Silverbeg’s introductory performance could have been a little more convincing, this minor flaw is quickly forgotten as the rest of the story draws us in. There’s even a certain catharsis in the very idea of a magical “erasing” pen that can make all our troubles go away. You can’t help but root for Silverberg’s character as you watch him magic all his problems away just so he can make it to dinner and propose to his girlfriend.

The best thing about this short was most certainly the ending… in a good way. It is both surprising, and vague enough to let you create your own satisfying version, and even leave you longing for a sequel. One audience members cleverly pointed out that it would have been interesting to encounter the other people or objects that the magical pen had been used on. In fact nothing says Jon Silverberg’s character wouldn’t encounter exactly that just moments later. The film ends so abruptly it leaves all that room precisely for you to interpret and decide where his life goes to from here.

It’s easy to deduce from here that this film is certainly one for the more creatively minded. Nevertheless, caution should be taken for those with a phobia of disappearing loved ones, like me. I guess that also makes this perfect for lovers of mystery. It’s always nice to appreciate good home-grown cinema, and Disappeared is definitely a good example of the capacity of the Canadian imagination.

Watch the AUDIENCE FEEDBACK Festival of the Short Film:

Interview with Festival Director Tina Borek (Comics in Film Festival)

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A film Festival for Comic and Super hero fans at Santa Fe Comic Con AND Albuquerque Comic Con Providing a weekend of Film, Celebrity guests, panels, workshops and more!

Interview with Tina Borek:

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

Tina Borek: We offer expoosure in a unique environment. A film Festival for Comic and Super hero fans at Santa Fe Comic Con AND Albuquerque Comic Con

Judged by a panel of industry luminaries, the Comics In Film Festival accepts genre-related films in the following categories: Action/Adventure, Animation, Comics-Oriented, Documentary (Pop Culture–Related), Horror/Suspense, Humor, and Science Fiction/Fantasy. Awards and prizes will be given out at Comic-Con, with film screenings all three days of the event.

Matthew: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

Tina: Providing a weekend of Film, Celebrity guests, panels, workshops and more!
http://www.santafecomiccon.com
http://www.albuquerquecomiccon.com

Matthew: What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Tina: CONTENT

To qualify as a “genre film” your movie must have at least one (or a combination) of the following themes: horror, fantasy, science-fiction, comic-book, superhero, fan-fiction, animation and parody.

Matthew: Do you think that some films really don’t get a fair shake from film festivals?

Tina: And if so, why? What I hear my friends say is film festivals are turning into beauty contests and we aim to change that. We dont choose films based on the Actors, or IMDB credits, we choose films we think are entertaining to our attendees and sometimes they may not have the best sound or lighting but there are many different criteria that go into what we choose to screen.

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

Tina: Our team is comprised of Actors, Directors, Producers, and Film Makers….. we get it, we know what Film Makers want and it isnt a certificate. We provide a networking opportunity like no other in a really fun environment by combining a pop culture convention and film we have created an amazing opportunity.

Matthew: How has the festival changed since its inception?

Tina: We have expanded our attendance every year which means film makers have a larger audience to screen too, at a really great venue. We also have added some fun perks for the film makers to get to know our fan base and inivited guests.

Matthew: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Tina: We are hoping to grow with the convention and expand to screenings at the local Theatres as well as have larger sponsors to provide great awards.

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

Tina: This is a great question, I come from the era of THE MOVIE CHANNEL, which had only a few movies a month and we watched them over and over, so I may have been skewed as to what was popular based on what was popular in my living room. I would have to say Valley Girl with Nicholas Cage, and Wedding Singer as a close runner up.

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

Tina: I personally like a movie I can’t figure out, my favorite film is The Game, for that reason.

Matthew: How is the film scene in your city?

Tina: Amazing, we film in all budget ranges from studio productions including Breaking Bad, Longmire, Better Call Saul, Preacher, The Night shift and countless others to webseries like Enter The Dojo. Our Festival is held in NM, an emerging Film location. We have an amazing crew base, talent pool and Indie scene here that has become like family.

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Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.

Interview with Festival Director Robert David Duncan (Miniature Film Festival)

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The Miniature Film Festival is exactly what it sounds like – a small celebration of small films. We want to acknowledge and promote filmmakers from around the world who make one-minute micro short films. Our inaugural event in 2015 was held at the beautiful Barclay Manor heritage venue in Vancouver. Now in our second year, we are remaining true to our roots as a small scale festival that helps create a community for tiny films and the ingenious filmmakers who make them – a miniature festival for miniature films!

Check out our festival listing here: https://filmfreeway.com/festival/MiniatureFilmFestival

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

Robert David Duncan: We are succeeding at creating a worldwide community for makers of one-minute micro short films, and the people who love those films. I also suspect that we are the first set of Official Selection laurels for many of our participants, because we seek to include films as much as possible, since there is no right or wrong way to tackle a one-minute film. Filmmakers also have a chance to meet one another at our screening event, but perhaps even more importantly, we provide a hub on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/MiniatureFilmFestival/) and Twitter (@miniatureFF) where they can connect up around the world and form a network.

Matthew: What would you expect to experience if you attend the festival this year (2016)?

Robert: If you can make it to Vancouver, you will experience an intimate gathering by filmmakers for filmmakers with the public welcome too. The films will be screened in our attractive heritage venue, and there is an opportunity for attending filmmakers to introduce their films and do Q&A. Our screenings are in a great location in downtown Vancouver, and the discussions and friendships can flow out into neighboring attractions such as the Seawall, English Bay and Stanley Park. We also award prize laurels for the films we consider to have been the best of the festival.

Matthew:  What are the qualifications for the selected films?

Robert: All films have to be one-minute or less in length, with 60 seconds being a bullseye. I personally watch each film and do the programming myself. Although I am always open to new approaches, I do have a preference for films that have a strong story or message, and get that message across effectively. If the film affects me, makes me laugh, smile, cry or think, then that is a good sign! A minute isn’t a lot of time to work with, so any special effects or music really should support the story and not detract from it. One of my mottoes is that “constraint breeds ingenuity,” and I am always impressed by the ingenuity of filmmakers out there.

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

Robert: I’m a filmmaker myself, and have had really good experiences with festivals. I think filmmakers taking the time to target the right festivals with the right offerings helps minimize disappointments all around. On the festival side, I think it is a good practice for a festival programmer or festival director to see each film, and not “job out” the selection process so much that new and innovative approaches get weeded out by an inexperienced set of eyes. This is why I see each film myself, and filmmakers can know that their work was seen by me. Finally, I think every festival can be courteous to its entrants by honoring deadlines, and communicating the results in a friendly and supportive manner. Tools like FilmFreeway make this very easy.

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

Robert: Being a filmmaker, I remember how thrilled I was when my first micro short film got accepted into a festival and I received my first ever set of Official Selection laurels. I wanted to spread that happiness and encouragement around, and decided to create a “miniature festival for miniature films.” I operate very much from a punk/DIY ethos, and believe that everybody has a story to share, and that they should just pick up their phone or whatever gear they have lying around and bash out a film, like the early punk rockers bashed out songs. It’s a labor of love for me, and has become a fun part of my busy annual calendar. I also wrote a book called “Micro Short Filmmaking: A guided learning journey” and I teach classes in order to help spread the message that anyone can and should make a film.

Matthew:  How has the festival changed since its inception?

Robert: Interestingly, my challenge is to keep the Miniature Film Festival miniature! Everything seems to have a natural tendency toward getting bigger, which is not what I want. I want the festival to always be financially self-sustaining, so that I can self-manage it and not need to rely on grants or other sources of funding. We operate with a small, no-frills budget that comes from our entry fees, and that pays for the venue rental and miniature cupcakes, which have become our signature event snack. We offer a no-fee window at the beginning of the season that helps make the festival accessible to a lot of people, and we publish deadlines before we stage in our fee increases, which I feel are are very modest and reasonable.

Matthew: Where do you see the festival by 2020?

Robert: Still miniature! Seriously, I see us building out a longer day of events that could include a teaching and filmmaking component. We are also collaborative colleagues with other festivals, and we help each other out with guest speaking and additional screening opportunities for some of our winning films. I could also see our festival traveling, and popping up in different locations over the years. But mostly, I want to be consistent in creating a fun little festival that celebrates filmmakers and builds community.

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

Robert: Hmmm… tough call! I’d have to say between “When Harry Met Sally,” “Moonstruck” and “The Godfather: Part II” that “The Godfather: Part II” would have to win. I can watch movies like these endlessly.

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

Robert: A story that moves you, makes you laugh, cry or think, and that keeps returning to your mind after seeing it.

Matthew:  How is the film scene in your city?

Robert: Vancouver is an amazing and beautiful place to make films. There is a great indie/DIY spirit here, and plenty of talent and gear floating around. I have been very fortunate to work with a wonderful collection of talented people over and over again, to the point where I can often write scripts with specific actors in mind. The only real challenge is our legendary rainfall, which makes it a headache to film outside, so you may want to write a lot of interior scenes! That said, I shot a completely exterior feature this summer and we had great weather every single filming day, so you never know.

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Robert David Duncan is an actor, filmmaker and founder of Fat Punk Productions and the Miniature Film Festival. With over 30 titles in production ranging from micro shorts to feature length films, Robert has over 100 official selections in festivals around the world, and also serves as a judge and panel speaker at festivals. He teaches acting and filmmaking and is the author of the books “Acting: A guided learning journey” and “Micro Short Filmmaking: A guided learning journey.” You can check out his IMDb page here: http://www.imdb.com/name/nm5399017

Interviewer Matthew Toffolo is currently the CEO of the WILDsound FEEDBACK Film & Writing Festival. The festival that showcases 10-20 screenplay and story readings performed by professional actors every month. And the FEEDBACK Monthly Festival held in downtown Toronto on the last Thursday of every single month. Go to www.wildsound.ca for more information and to submit your work to the festival.