The Deadlines section of sf360.org is a large but selective list of festival calls for entry, upcoming seminars, artist residencies, grant and award deadlines and other opportunities for filmmakers. Are we missing an important deadline? Please write us at sgerhard[at]sffs.org.
Hot Docs – Canadian International Documentary Festival (April 26–May 6, 2012) is a competitive event seeking Canadian and international documentaries of all lengths (feature length: 60 min. or longer; mid-length: 30 to 59 min.; short: under 30 min.) and subject matter. ELIGIBILITY: Submissions must have been completed after January 1, 2011; cannot have been screened publicly prior to January 1, 2011; must be Toronto premieres; must be in English, subtitled in English; must be exhibited in one of the following screening formats: 35mm film, DigiBeta (NTSC or PAL) and HDCAM. Entry fees: $33.90 CDN for short films; $67.80 CDN (before December 2, 2011) or $118.65 CDN (before January 13, 2012) for mid and feature length films. AWARDS: Hot Docs features two juried competition programs and several noncompetitive programs. DEADLINE: December 2, 2011 (early); January 13, 2012 (late). WEBSITE: hotdocs.ca/.
International Film Festival Summit (December 4–6, 2011), held in Austin, Texas, is the largest international organization representing the film festival industry. The IFFS mission is to promote and strengthen the global film festival industry through education, networking, dissemination of information, and the cultivation of high standards. This year's featured topics include Anatomy of a Festival: South by Southwest, Programming: The Fine Art of Film Selection, Marketing Strategies: Integrating Social Media and Technology, The Festival Mission, Sponsorship Strategy, Box Office Technology Solutions, among others. Notable speakers include Richard Linklater (Before Sunrise, Before Sunset), as well as SFFS' very own Steve Jenkins, Sarah Cathers, and Linda Butler. DEADLINE: Register by September 25, 2011 to receive discounted rate. WEBSITE: filmfestivalsummit.com/iffshome.html.
SF360.org represents a nearly six-year experiment in philanthropically funded film journalism, covering films and filmmaking in the Bay Area and beyond. Published by the San Francisco Film Society, the website debuted February 27, 2006 and was created in a unique collaboration between SFFS and Indiewire, with Susan Gerhard as editor. While SF360.org is no longer publishing feature stories, the SF360 Archive remains the most comprehensive collection of articles about the Bay Area film community, with more than 1,000 feature stories and reviews as well as Indie Toolkit's informative columns about the basics of creating a film and delivering it to audiences. Articles by some of the Bay Area’s most notable voices will remain at your fingertips for the foreseeable future.
SF360.org represents a nearly six-year experiment in philanthropically funded film journalism, covering films and filmmaking in the Bay Area and beyond. Published by the San Francisco Film Society, the website debuted February 27, 2006 and was created in a unique collaboration between SFFS and Indiewire, with Susan Gerhard as editor. While SF360.org is no longer publishing feature stories, the SF360 Archive remains the most comprehensive collection of articles about the Bay Area film community, with more than 1,000 feature stories and reviews as well as Indie Toolkit's informative columns about the basics of creating a film and delivering it to audiences. Articles by some of the Bay Area’s most notable voices will remain at your fingertips for the foreseeable future.
The California Story Fund, presented by California Council for the Humanities (CCH), supports public humanities programs that bring light to compelling stories from California's diverse communities and provide opportunities for collective reflection and public discussion. ELIGIBILITY: Applicants must have California tax-exempt organizational status or partner with a California tax-exempt organization that will serve as a fiscal sponsor, not have an open grant with CCH, and be in good standing with CCH. Projects should be based on stories gathered from community members, include a public discussion component and at least one humanities expert. Film/video projects should not exceed a total budget of $50,000. AWARDS: Applicants may request up to $10,000, which must be matched by at least an equivalent contribution of non-federal funds or in-kind services. DEADLINE: November 15, 2011. WEBSITE: calhum.org/guidelines/guidelines_csf.htm.
San Francisco Arts Commission (SFAC) Cultural Equity Grants provide "financial support for the enrichment of San Francisco's multicultural landscape." ELIGIBILITY: Organization Project Grants provide up to $15,000 to support the presentation of high quality works of art and arts activities, including film and video screenings and arts festivals. All art forms will be considered. To be eligible, organizations must have 501(c)(3) status or use a fiscal sponsor. Grant Period: June 15, 2012 - December 31, 2013. AWARDS: Grants awards are up to 15,000 to support the enhancement of arts facilities in the city. DEADLINE: November 10, 2011. WEBSITE: sfartscommission.org/ceg/grants/index.html#opg.
Catapult Film Fund provides early development funding to documentary filmmakers who have a compelling story to tell. It supports powerful stories, and moving storytelling, across a broad spectrum of issues and perspectives. ELIGIBILITY: Applicant must be 18 or older. Catapult Film Fund does not award grants for student films. Documentary projects must be 28 minutes or longer. Development funds must specifically be used to complete early writing, shooting and editing once story and characters are in place. Applicants must be independent producers. They must own the copyright of their production, and have artistic, budgetary and editorial control of their project. Applicants must have previous film or television production experience in a principal role as demonstrated by submitting previously completed work sample. Applicants must be able to demonstrate that they have successfully fund-raised for an independent documentary film, in line with its original budget. AWARDS: Catapult Film Fund development grants range from $5,000 to $20,000. DEADLINE: November 7, 2011. WEBSITE: catapultfilmfund.org/.
Essential SF shines a light on the Bay Area’s legendary, idiosyncratic and multifaceted contributions to the filmmaking world at SF Film Society | New People Cinema, 7:00 pm. An outgrowth of SF360.org’s Essential SF column, the event this year also pays tribute to the half-decade-plus SF360.org project.
Essential SF shines a light on the Bay Area’s legendary, idiosyncratic and multifaceted contributions to the filmmaking world at SF Film Society | New People Cinema, 7:00 pm. An outgrowth of SF360.org’s Essential SF column, the event this year also pays tribute to the half-decade-plus SF360.org project.
Essential SF shines a light on the Bay Area’s legendary, idiosyncratic and multifaceted contributions to the filmmaking world at SF Film Society | New People Cinema, 7:00 pm. An outgrowth of SF360.org’s Essential SF column, the event this year also pays tribute to the half-decade-plus SF360.org project.
With riveting characters, cascading revelations and momentous breakthroughs, Epstein and Friedman’s work paved the way for contemporary documentary practice.
With riveting characters, cascading revelations and momentous breakthroughs, Epstein and Friedman’s work paved the way for contemporary documentary practice.
With riveting characters, cascading revelations and momentous breakthroughs, Epstein and Friedman’s work paved the way for contemporary documentary practice.
Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.
Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.
Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.
Rough Cuts is a series of work-in-progress documentary screenings that are produced at a variety of locations throughout San Francisco. The next event (November 14, 2011; 7:30 p.m.) features one rough cut of a feature-length documentary and then a conversation about the film. The post-screening discussion is designed to give the filmmaker a better, more objective sense of what is working and not working with the film, with particular attention paid to improving the film's structure and narrative clarity. ELIGIBILITY: Rough Cuts is currently accepting submissions for the next event. If you are editing a documentary that is over 40 minutes long and are seeking feedback, they encourage you to submit. Principal photography should have been completed, and filmmakers tare encouraged to submit films that are in the later stages of post-production. AWARDS: Invaluable feedback and constructive criticism. DEADLINE: November 1, 2011. Submissions must arrive by 5:00 p.m. WEBSITE: sfroughcuts.com/index.html.
"After whetting local appetites through a successful soft launch last year, 91 films are now listed in the 2011 Napa Valley Film Festival program guide. Those films—many of them short—will be played on 12 screens throughout the Napa Valley, including screenings in Calistoga, Yountville, St. Helena and the city of Napa." More at napavalleyregister.com.
Since its first event in 1998, Midnight Mass has become an SF institution, and Peaches Christ, well, she's its peerless warden and cult leader.
Since its first event in 1998, Midnight Mass has become an SF institution, and Peaches Christ, well, she's its peerless warden and cult leader.
Since its first event in 1998, Midnight Mass has become an SF institution, and Peaches Christ, well, she's its peerless warden and cult leader.
Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.
Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.
Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.
Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.
Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.
Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.
Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’
Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’
Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’
The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'
The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'
The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'
PFA plays Rainer Werner Fassbinder's magnum opus 'Berlin Alexanderplatz' in four recently restored 199-minute segments in a rare screening. Although this Friday's screening finds the series already in its second movement, film buffs are advised to enjoy at least a piece of this expansive exploration of Berlin's underworld on film before catching up with the Criterion DVD set. More info bampfa.berkeley.edu
Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’
Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’
Filmmaker and programmer Moore talks process, offers perspective on his debut feature and Cinema by the Bay opener, ‘I Think It’s Raining.’
The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'
The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'
The National Film Preservation Foundation delivers another gem with the fascinating three-disc box set 'The West 1898-1938.'
For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.
For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.
For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.
For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.
Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.
Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.
Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.
Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.
Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.
Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.
Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.
Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.
Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.
Press release: The San Francisco Jewish Film Festival announced its new Executive Director: Lexi Leban, who begins working with the festival November 7, 2011. A longtime member of the Bay Area film community, Lexi has worked in all aspects of film, from production to distribution. She’s also worked with numerous film festivals, including the Mill Valley Film Festival, the San Francisco International Film Festival, and the Global Social Change Film Festival in Bali. Lexi is currently Academic Director of the Digital Filmmaking & Video Production Program at the Art Institute of California, where she built the department from its inception. Her most recent feature documentary, Girl Trouble, which follows young girls in San Francisco’s juvenile justice system, aired on PBS’s acclaimed series Independent Lens in January of 2006, and won Best Bay Area Documentary at the San Francisco International Film Festival. More at sfjff.org.
"After their weekend-long Film Independent Forum," reports Sophia Savage, "FIND announced eleven filmmakers and nine projects for their 11th annual Producers Lab, and named Brent Hoff and Malcom Pullinger the winners of the 5th annual $25,000 Sloan Producers Grant." More at indiewire.com/thompsononhollywood.
Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.
Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.
Director Mina T. Son talks about the creation of ‘Making Noise in Silence,’ screening the United Nations Association Film Festival this week.
The San Francisco Film Society joins the New York International Children’s Film Festival to present a three-day kid-ready fest of animated and non-animated shorts and features from around the world. The brief fest kicks off with a child-friendly opening night party on Friday, and for offers another chance to enjoy Alex Law's sweet Hong Kong Film Days entry, 'Echoes of the Rainbow.' More info sffs.org.
Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.
Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.
Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.
North America's largest showcase of German-language films enters its 16th year, screening more than 20 films from Austria, Switzerland and Germany. Highlights include fest closing film 'If Not Us, Who' and thriller 'Sennentuntschi.' B&B opens Thursday with a screening of 'Almanya – Welcome to Germany' and a party to follow at the historic Castro Theatre. More info berlinbeyond.com.
YBCA screens five films by 27-year old Mexican auteur Nicolás Pereda in this lauded retrospective, justifiably making its San Francisco debut after playing earlier this year to acclaim in points east. Deadpan comedy 'Juntos' plays Thursday. More info ybca.org.
"Filmmakers and coders hunkered down for two days of creative collaboration here during a first-of-its-kind hackathon that explored the future of web video — specifically Popcorn.js, Mozilla’s HTML5 media toolkit designed to amp up interactivity" reports Angela Watercutter. More at wired.com.
"The launch of SF360.org, an online publication devoted to covering the entire Bay Area film community, was one of San Francisco Film Society Executive Director Graham Leggat's first initiatives when he took over the organization," writes Pam Grady. "...in November, a victim of financial realities and organizational changes in the wake of Leggat's recent death, SF360.org will cease publication." More at SFGate.
Press release: San Francisco Film Society announced the appointment of Bingham Ray as its executive director, effective November 7, 2011. Ray comes to the San Francisco Film Society from New York City, where he recently served as the first run programming consultant to the Film Society of Lincoln Center, executive consultant to the digital distribution company SnagFilms and adjunct professor at New York University's Tisch School of the Arts. More at sffs.org.
Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.
Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.
Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.
Saraf and Light's work is marked by an unwavering appreciation for underdogs and outsiders.
Can three film school grads from San Francisco break out without the help of Hollywood or New York connections?
Can three film school grads from San Francisco break out without the help of Hollywood or New York connections?
Can three film school grads from San Francisco break out without the help of Hollywood or New York connections?
SFFS gives Catherine Breillat's SFIFF-screened fantasy 'The Sleeping Beauty' a short run at Film Society | New People Cinema starting Monday. More info sffs.org.
The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.
The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.
The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.
Cinequest Screenwriting Competition, held in conjunction with the Cinequest Film Festival (February 28-March 11, 2012), is accepting submissions. ELIGIBILITY: The competition is open to screenplays of all genres and lengths up to 140 pages that have not been optioned, purchased, produced, or put into production. Scripts should be in English, properly formatted, and submitted in PDF format. Scripts written as adaptations of other works must have secured rights before being submitted. Entry fee $45-65. AWARDS: Finalists receive non-cash prizes, including exposure to literary agents, film studios, and producers. Top prize is $5,000. DEADLINE: September 26, 2011 (early); October 17, 2011 (late). WEBSITE: cinequest.org/sp_agent.php.
Furthering CAAM's work to nurture Asian American media professionals and advance the field of Asian American media, the second annual CAAM Fellowship Program will connect young, talented individuals with leading professionals in the field. ELIGIBILITY: Participating fellows will have access to the leading Asian American talent in film, television and digital media. Each fellowship will be individually tailored to best fit the needs of the fellows and advisers. Fellowships will range from fully integrated collaborations to regular feedback on current projects to an ongoing dialogue about professional development. AWARDS: The CAAM Fellowship Program Retreat will allow the mentor-mentee pairs to spend two full days together in a quiet and peaceful environment where they can focus on the mentees' career, whether it is a script being developed or an acting career that needs some guidance. DEADLINE: October 17, 2011. WEBSITE: caamedia.org/filmmaker-resources/fellowship/caam-fellowship-program-2011/.
"Star Wars creator George Lucas is betting millions of his own dollars that moviegoers will be drawn to an action movie about African-American fighter pilots in World War II," reports Christopher John Farley. "Mr. Lucas has self-financed a new film entitled Red Tails inspired by the true story of the first organized group of African-American fighter pilots in the U.S. armed forces." More at wsj.com.
The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.
The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.
The best is yet come for Mexican wunderkind Nicolás Pereda, whose elliptical narratives allow room meditation and imagination on the part of a viewer.
SFFS's Taiwan Film Days opens Friday with director Wang Chi-tsai's well modulated dark comedy 'Formosa Mambo' and an accompanying post-screening party at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. The now annual showcase closes Sunday evening with Chienn Hsiang's riveting 'Ranger.' More info at sffs.org.
SFFS's Taiwan Film Days opens Friday with director Wang Chi-tsai's well modulated dark comedy 'Formosa Mambo' and an accompanying post-screening party at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. The now annual showcase closes Sunday evening with Chienn Hsiang's riveting 'Ranger.' More info at sffs.org.
SF Indiefest offshoot DocFest kicks off its 10th edition this Friday with a screening of 'Dirty Pictures,' a film about underground ecstasy legend Dr. Alexander Shulgin. Featuring the wildest and wooliest independent docs emerging this year, the fest also boast a number of well-loved parties and one ’80s New Wave sing-along. More info at sfindie.virb.com.
SF Indiefest offshoot DocFest kicks off its 10th edition this Friday with a screening of 'Dirty Pictures,' a film about underground ecstasy legend Dr. Alexander Shulgin. Featuring the wildest and wooliest independent docs emerging this year, the fest also boast a number of well-loved parties and one ’80s New Wave sing-along. More info at sfindie.virb.com.
Expectations defied in Taiwan Film Days. It could be argued that Taiwanese cinema, best known through the work of three auteurs, Edward Yang, Hou Hsiao-hsien and Tsai Ming-liang, is not tied to audience-generating genres. It’s certainly been able to travel more diverse cinematic avenues than some of its neighbors. San Francisco Film Society's Taiwan Film Days running from October 14–16, however, offers evidence for any number of arguments you’d like to make about Asian cinema and Taiwan in particular. On the docket this year are ...
The Arab Film Festival, now entering its 15th year, screens more than 40 films in two weeks, beginning Thursday at SF's Castro Theatre and making stops in Berkeley and San Jose before closing in Los Angeles on the 23rd. AFF Exec Director Michel Shehadeh spoke with SF360 earlier this week. More info and ticketing at arabfilmfestival.org.
The Arab Film Festival, now entering its 15th year, screens more than 40 films in two weeks, beginning Thursday at SF's Castro Theatre and making stops in Berkeley and San Jose before closing in Los Angeles on the 23rd. AFF Exec Director Michel Shehadeh spoke with SF360 earlier this week. More info and ticketing at arabfilmfestival.org.
Expectations defied in Taiwan Film Days. It could be argued that Taiwanese cinema, best known through the work of three auteurs, Edward Yang, Hou Hsiao-hsien and Tsai Ming-liang, is not tied to audience-generating genres. It’s certainly been able to travel more diverse cinematic avenues than some of its neighbors. San Francisco Film Society's Taiwan Film Days running from October 14–16, however, offers evidence for any number of arguments you’d like to make about Asian cinema and Taiwan in particular. On the docket this year are ...
A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.
A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.
A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.
PFA finishes a short program of experimental films by teacher, multi-genre artist and Fluxus collaborator Paul Sharits this Thursday with a screening of his later work on Thursday. The Berkeley institution also screens a selection of Sharits' midcareer work this Wednesday. More info bampfa.edu.
PFA finishes a short program of experimental films by teacher, multi-genre artist and Fluxus collaborator Paul Sharits this Thursday with a screening of his later work on Thursday. The Berkeley institution also screens a selection of Sharits' midcareer work this Wednesday. More info bampfa.edu.
A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.
A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.
A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.
San Rafael’s Indigo Films makes fascinating crime fare for cable on a DIY-sized budget.
San Rafael’s Indigo Films makes fascinating crime fare for cable on a DIY-sized budget.
San Rafael’s Indigo Films makes fascinating crime fare for cable on a DIY-sized budget.
Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.
Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.
Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.
The TFI Documentary Fund provides grants and guidance to exceptional filmmakers developing engaging feature-length documentaries which emphasize character and that allow audiences to consider history, culture and society through the experiences of extraordinary individuals. ELIGIBILITY: Submissions must be non-fiction motion pictures with an intended length of at least 70 minutes and should creatively document unique character(s); submissions can be in the advanced stages of development, production or post-production and must not have aired on any form. Foreign language documentaries are eligible, but must be subtitled and suitable for an American audience. Applicants must be over 18-years old. $25 entry fee. AWARDS: Grants of at least $10,000 will be awarded in 2012. DEADLINE: October 10, 2011. WEBSITE: tribecafilminstitute.org/tfi_documentary/.
The TFI Latin America Media Arts Fund supports innovative film and video artists who are living or working in Mexico, Central and South America and working independently in their efforts to reach a larger audience. ELIGIBILITY: Submissions must be animation, documentary and/or hybrid feature-length films with an intended length of at least 70 minutes. Submissions must be in production or post-production and must not have aired on any form of television, been screened publicly or have been distributed in theaters or via the internet. Projects may be in any language or dialect. Applicants must be over 18 years old. Student films and stand-alone short films are not eligible for submission. $25 entry fee. AWARDS: Last year, the Fund administered $10,000 grants to four selected films. In addition to funding, each grantee will receive a U.S. based advisor and guidance from the Tribeca Film Institute. DEADLINE: October 10, 2011. WEBSITE: tribecafilminstitute.org/filmmakers/latin_fund/.
"Fritz Manes, who had a long association with Clint Eastwood, producing, exec producing or associate producing a dozen of the films Eastwood directed between 1977 and 1986," reports Variety, "died of lung and brain cancer on Sept. 27 in Sherman Oaks, Calif." More at variety.com.
Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.
Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.
Arab Film Festival Executive Director Michel Shehadeh speaks to building an all-encompassing international space.
Author and journalist Susan Orlean ('The Orchid Thief') appears in person at SF Film Society Cinema | New People to celebrate the release of her new book on American cinema's greatest animal actor, Rin Tin Tin. One of the canine's classics, 'Clash of the Wolves,' will screen following an illustrated introduction by Orlean. Q&A to follow. More info and tickets at sffs.org.
Author and journalist Susan Orlean ('The Orchid Thief') appears in person at SF Film Society Cinema | New People to celebrate the release of her new book on American cinema's greatest animal actor, Rin Tin Tin. One of the canine's classics, 'Clash of the Wolves,' will screen following an illustrated introduction by Orlean. Q&A to follow. More info and tickets at sffs.org.
Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.
Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.
Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.
Charles Burnett's criminally underseen meditation on urban life in future race flashpoint Watts, CA, 'Killer of Sheep,' screens this Friday as part of Pacific Film Archive's The Outsiders: New Hollywood Cinema in the Seventies. More info at bampfa.edu.
Charles Burnett's criminally underseen meditation on urban life in future race flashpoint Watts, CA, 'Killer of Sheep,' screens this Friday as part of Pacific Film Archive's The Outsiders: New Hollywood Cinema in the Seventies. More info at bampfa.edu.
The Matt Damon-narrated SFIFF hit 'American Teacher' follows the lives of a few edu-system stars, one based in San Francisco, forced by low wages and crumbling job security to reconsider their chosen profession. Filmmaker Vanessa Roth and producers Dave Eggers and Nînive Calegari will be present for Q&A following Friday's screening; special reception Tuesday, October 11. More info at roxie.com.
The Matt Damon-narrated SFIFF hit 'American Teacher' follows the lives of a few edu-system stars, one based in San Francisco, forced by low wages and crumbling job security to reconsider their chosen profession. Filmmaker Vanessa Roth and producers Dave Eggers and Nînive Calegari will be present for Q&A following Friday's screening; special reception Tuesday, October 11. More info at roxie.com.
Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.
Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.
Goldman Prize-winning environmentalists' work highlighted in short-form pieces by Parrinello, Antonelli and Dusenbery.
Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.
Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.
Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.
Fringe Tamil director Bala's mad, mondo tale of a pot-smoking, vengeance-driven holy man plays this week at YBCA. 'Naan Kadavul' screens as part of YBCA mini-program 'Cruel Cinema: New Directions in Tamil Film,' also featuring actor Sasikumar's ambitious first film, 'Subramaniapuram.' More info ybca.org.
Fringe Tamil director Bala's mad, mondo tale of a pot-smoking, vengeance-driven holy man plays this week at YBCA. 'Naan Kadavul' screens as part of YBCA mini-program 'Cruel Cinema: New Directions in Tamil Film,' also featuring actor Sasikumar's ambitious first film, 'Subramaniapuram.' More info ybca.org.
The 34th Mill Valley Film Festival continues at a number of locations, with a number of notable guests, including directors Gaston Kaboré and Luc Besson. See Dennis Harvey's extended preview on SF360 for the full story. More info and film schedule at mvff.com.
The 34th Mill Valley Film Festival continues at a number of locations, with a number of notable guests, including directors Gaston Kaboré and Luc Besson. See Dennis Harvey's extended preview on SF360 for the full story. More info and film schedule at mvff.com.
Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.
Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.
Mill Valley amps up the star wattage in its annual mix of local, international titles.
In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'
In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'
In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'
In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'
In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'
In the illusory world of what we call ‘real life’, our beloved friend Graham pursued his practice of keeping his attention fixed firmly on 'the screen.'
An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.
An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.
An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.
John Turturro 's 'Passione' illuminates the history of Neapolitan music for a second week at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. Compared favorably to Wim Wenders' beloved 'Buena Vista Social Club,' the film is the actor-director's first foray into the documentary form. More info at sffs.org.
John Turturro 's 'Passione' illuminates the history of Neapolitan music for a second week at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. Compared favorably to Wim Wenders' beloved 'Buena Vista Social Club,' the film is the actor-director's first foray into the documentary form. More info at sffs.org.
John Turturro 's 'Passione' illuminates the history of Neapolitan music for a second week at SF Film Society | New People Cinema. Compared favorably to Wim Wenders' beloved 'Buena Vista Social Club,' the film is the actor-director's first foray into the documentary form. More info at sffs.org.
An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.
An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.
An East Bay filmmaker takes another look at U.S. financial woes with 'Heist,' which world premieres at the Mill Valley Film Festival.
San Francisco Film Society and the Presidio Trust present the 10th anniversary edition of Film in the Fog, with pre-show entertainments (’50s-era newsreel, classic cartoon, music) to precede an outdoor screening of San Francisco-shot Humphrey Bogart noir treasure 'Dark Passage.' Film program begins at 7:15 p.m. at the Presidio Main Post Theater; more info at sffs.org.
San Francisco Film Society and the Presidio Trust present the 10th anniversary edition of Film in the Fog, with pre-show entertainments (’50s-era newsreel, classic cartoon, music) to precede an outdoor screening of San Francisco-shot Humphrey Bogart noir treasure 'Dark Passage.' Film program begins at 7:15 p.m. at the Presidio Main Post Theater; more info at sffs.org.
"The 15th annual Portland Lesbian and Gay Film Fest opens tonight," reports Amanda Schurr, "with a screening of David Weissman’s latest documentary, We Were Here." More at justout.com.
John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.
John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.
John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.
YBCA screens Brillante Mendoza's 'Lola,' a drama tracking the consequences of a crime on two grandmothers, one related to the victim, another the suspect. Infrequently seen on western screens, Mendoza is regarded in his native Philippines as a cinematic master and the leading light of Kapampangan film. More info at ybca.org.
YBCA screens Brillante Mendoza's 'Lola,' a drama tracking the consequences of a crime on two grandmothers, one related to the victim, another the suspect. Infrequently seen on western screens, Mendoza is regarded in his native Philippines as a cinematic master and the leading light of Kapampangan film. More info at ybca.org.
PFA series Anatolian Outlaw: Yilmaz Güney, showcasing the work of the Turkish actor-director cum revolutionary dubbed the "Ugly King" for his unique combination of charisma and rough-hewn looks, continues with the realist western riff 'The Hungry Wolves.' Series runs through October 9. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
PFA series Anatolian Outlaw: Yilmaz Güney, showcasing the work of the Turkish actor-director cum revolutionary dubbed the "Ugly King" for his unique combination of charisma and rough-hewn looks, continues with the realist western riff 'The Hungry Wolves.' Series runs through October 9. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
"After an eight-year tenure as the festival’s director," reports Dan Pine, "[Peter Stein] is stepping down Oct. 3 — and once again becoming a regular film festival fan." More at jweekly.com.
Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.
Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.
Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.
Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.
Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.
Artistic integrity is always in short supply, which makes Broughton an inspiration for every successive generation of poets and filmmakers.
Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.
Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.
Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.
SFFS's bi-monthly forum and industry show-and-tell makes its first appearance at Film Society Cinema this Tuesday. Panel discussion will be moderated by music rights exec Brooke Wentz and feature Kim Aubry of Zoetrope Aubry productions alongside Academy Award-winning soundmen Michael Semanick and Richard Beggs. More info at sffs.org.
SFFS's bi-monthly forum and industry show-and-tell makes its first appearance at Film Society Cinema this Tuesday. Panel discussion will be moderated by music rights exec Brooke Wentz and feature Kim Aubry of Zoetrope Aubry productions alongside Academy Award-winning soundmen Michael Semanick and Richard Beggs. More info at sffs.org.
Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.
Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.
Though it's legal to film illegal acts, crime can certainly complicate your filmmaking process.
Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.
Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.
Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.
Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.
Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.
Sentimental French film is no top-shelf vehicle, but Depardieu savors it as if it were the rarest vintage Bordeaux.
Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.
Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.
SF Film Society | New People Cinema screens new films by Johnnie To, Bennie Chan, Alex Law and others in a new program celebrating one of cinema's most prolific cities. The Film Society launches the festival's inaugural year with a party at Superfrog gallery on Friday. More info sffs.org.
SF Film Society | New People Cinema screens new films by Johnnie To, Bennie Chan, Alex Law and others in a new program celebrating one of cinema's most prolific cities. The Film Society launches the festival's inaugural year with a party at Superfrog gallery on Friday. More info sffs.org.
Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.
Guy Maddin talks about movies, writing, himself—and the allure of the Osmonds, re-published on the occasion of Fandor's Maddin blogathon.
Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.
Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.
Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.
Founded in 2003, The San Francisco Irish Film Festival opens this Thursday at the Roxie. Highlights include Colm Meany's turn in the charming 'Parked,' a closing night screening of 'Once' follow-up 'Swell Season,' and revival screenings of 'In the Name of The Father' and 2008 Cannes Golden Camera winner 'Hunger.' More info sfirishfilm.com.
Founded in 2003, The San Francisco Irish Film Festival opens this Thursday at the Roxie. Highlights include Colm Meany's turn in the charming 'Parked,' a closing night screening of 'Once' follow-up 'Swell Season,' and revival screenings of 'In the Name of The Father' and 2008 Cannes Golden Camera winner 'Hunger.' More info sfirishfilm.com.
Celebrating the grand opening of the SF Film Society | New People Cinema, a state-of-the-art venue for art, independent and world cinema, San Francisco Film Society offers an open house reception and ribbon cutting with food, drink, musical performances and screenings in the theater itself throughout the night. More info at sffs.org.
Peaches Christ and Dr. Carol Queen host the Sixth Annual Good Vibrations Indie Erotic Film Festival Short Film Competition this Thursday, boasting a Barbary Coast-themed party featuring food, drinks and an array of appropriately sexed-up performers and a curated screening of sexy short films from this year. Each event costs $10, more info castrotheatre.com.
Peaches Christ and Dr. Carol Queen host the Sixth Annual Good Vibrations Indie Erotic Film Festival Short Film Competition this Thursday, boasting a Barbary Coast-themed party featuring food, drinks and an array of appropriately sexed-up performers and a curated screening of sexy short films from this year. Each event costs $10, more info castrotheatre.com.
SFMOMA presents an hour-long program of contemporary artist Helga Fanderl's formalist silent Super 8mm shorts this Thursday. More info at sfmoma.org.
SFMOMA presents an hour-long program of contemporary artist Helga Fanderl's formalist silent Super 8mm shorts this Thursday. More info at sfmoma.org.
"San Francisco-based visual effects and post house SPY, a FotoKem company, recently contributed hundreds of visual effects shots, the digital intermediate and 3D conversion services for Francis Ford Coppola’s latest feature film, Twixt," reports Below the Line. More at btlnews.com.
Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.
Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.
Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.
Two Berkeley filmmakers tap vitality of 84-year-old neuroscientist Dr. Marian Diamond.
Two Berkeley filmmakers tap vitality of 84-year-old neuroscientist Dr. Marian Diamond.
Two Berkeley filmmakers tap vitality of 84-year-old neuroscientist Dr. Marian Diamond.
Dziga Vertov completed the epic documentary 'A Sixth Part of the World' after his ejection from the Cold War-era Soviet documentary film unit Sovkino. The breathtaking and broad-reaching doc, praised by revered experimentalist Chris Marker, screens Wednesday as part of PFA's annual avant-garde film program Alternative Visions. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Dziga Vertov completed the epic documentary 'A Sixth Part of the World' after his ejection from the Cold War-era Soviet documentary film unit Sovkino. The breathtaking and broad-reaching doc, praised by revered experimentalist Chris Marker, screens Wednesday as part of PFA's annual avant-garde film program Alternative Visions. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Press release: The San Francisco Film Society today announced the three winners of the inaugural SFFS Documentary Film Fund grants. The Fund was created to support the postproduction of singular feature-length nonfiction film work that is distinguished by compelling stories, intriguing characters and an innovative visual approach. Each year from 2011 to 2013, a total of $100,000 will be disbursed to further new work by documentary filmmakers nationwide. Winners are: Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson, An American Promise, $25,000; Priya Desai and Ann Kim, Match +, $25,000; Zachary Heinzerling, Cutie & the Boxe, $50,000. For more information go to: sffs.org/filmmaker-services.
"The proposal for the 82,000-square-foot facility made public Wednesday evening comes 15 months after the university-owned institution restarted the effort to build itself a new home on the downtown edge of the UC Berkeley campus at Center and Oxford streets," reports John King. Read more at sfgate.com.
Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.
Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.
Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.
Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.
Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.
Developing a style that sets your film apart is key to capturing audience attention in nonfiction.
Sex-filled fictions dominate Toronto International Film Festival; eclectic docs inspire action.
Sex-filled fictions dominate Toronto International Film Festival; eclectic docs inspire action.
Sex-filled fictions dominate Toronto International Film Festival; eclectic docs inspire action.
The San Francisco Opera & CFI Education co-present a one-hour kid-friendly version of the famous opera at the Smith Rafael Film Center, along with educational take-home materials and an introduction by SF Opera staff. Free this Saturday, more info cafilm.org.
With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.
With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.
With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.
With 'Connected,' Tiffany Shlain weaves hope into a high risk story.
SFIFF standout 'Aurora' screens at SF Film Society | New People Cinema starting this Friday. Following the lead set by his highly praised 2005 film, 'The Death of Mr. Lazarescu,' Cristi Puiu's latest is the blackest of comedies, exposing the anatomy of a crime to the smallest, most innocent detail. More info sffs.org.
Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...
Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...
SF's largest single screen shows a new restoration print of Martin Scorsese's grime classic, 'Taxi Driver.' Playing on the same double-bill is underseen noir 'Blast of Silence', an influence on filmmakers from Scorsese to Lars von Trier. More info at castrotheatre.com.
As a complement to this year's Bay Area Now program, YBCA screens two films about waste and the way it impacts our lives. 'Scrappers,' showing Thursday, tells the story of two scavengers eking out a living salvaging trash from Chicago's dumpsters and 'Waste Land,' playing Sunday, follows artist Vik Muniz to Brazil where he connects with pickers at the world's largest garbage dump. More info: ybca.org.
Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...
Unhurried, character-driven story demonstrates the filmmaking finesse that’s brought Romanian cinema to the fore. Though it had made an occasional international impression before—notably with a long history of Cannes entries and prize winners—few could have anticipated the splash Romanian cinema would create in the last few years. Or that the attention paid it would bring a number of often long, difficult, obtuse movies out of their usual habitat (the festival circuit) into theaters around the world. The collapse of Communism and execution of Romania's quarter-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu in 1989 freed the filmmaking industry from strict governmental control and propagandic content. But it took until the middle...
North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.
North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.
North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.
North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.
North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.
North Bay world, independent showcase ready to screen wide range of films in early October.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
The Cine+Mas 2011 San Francisco Latino Film Festival kicks off this Wednesday with a screening of 'Being: Cafe´ Tacvba' at Landmark's Embarcadero Center Cinema and screens through next week at venues throughout the Bay Area. The festival offers a number of new works by Latino directors based locally and internationally. More info and kickoff RSVP at sflatinofilmfestival.com.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Gavin O'Connor does a remarkable job making his two-and-a-half-hour fight film gritty, involving and as credible as humanly possible.
Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.
Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.
Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.
Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.
Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.
Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.
Week two of San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema features Argentinian Natalia Smirnoff’s first feature, a delicate character portrait in which a middle-aged housewife, cherished by her husband and two sons but nevertheless taken for granted, discovers an aptitude for jigsaw puzzles. More at sffs.org.
Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.
Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.
Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.
Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.
Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.
Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.
San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...
San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...
San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...
San Francisco loses two of its cinema icons, pioneering 'camp humorist' George Kuchar and seminal experimental filmmaker Jordan Belson. George Kuchar, the beloved San Francisco filmmaker, teacher, mentor and friend, died Tuesday night, September 6, at the age of 69. He passed away at Coming Home Hospice in the Castro, where he resided for the last month. Kuchar had been diagnosed with cancer a year and a half ago, but the sad news was not conveyed beyond a circle of close friends until recently. Kuchar and his twin brother, Mike, began making movies in their teens in their Bronx neighborhood in the late ’50s. Inspired by the florid emotions of Hollywood melodramas, they made 8mm narratives that were funny...
As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'
As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'
As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'
As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'
As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'
As an appreciation of George Kuchar's inspired presence, we offer up the filmmaker in his own words, excerpted from 'Radical Light: Alternative Film and Video in the San Francisco Bay Area, 1945–2000.'
Priya Giri Desai documents matchmaking efforts for HIV-positives in India.
Priya Giri Desai documents matchmaking efforts for HIV-positives in India.
Priya Giri Desai documents matchmaking efforts for HIV-positives in India.
Berkeley-programmed Festival is a favorite for cinephiles; features Caetano Veloso as 2011 Guest Director.
Berkeley-programmed Festival is a favorite for cinephiles; features Caetano Veloso as 2011 Guest Director.
Berkeley-programmed Festival is a favorite for cinephiles; features Caetano Veloso as 2011 Guest Director.
San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema sets sail with Jean-Luc Godard's 2010 provocation, 'Film Socialisme.' As Robert Avila writes in SF360.org later this week, the "playful, somber meditation on where history has brought us is brimming with ideas and aesthetic pleasures." Screenings begin September 2. More info on the new SFFS venue at Post Street (between Webster and Buchanan) in sffs.org.
The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.
The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.
The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.
The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.
The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.
The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.
Britta Sjogren gets a second chance to make a film about how people rebound from trauma.
Britta Sjogren gets a second chance to make a film about how people rebound from trauma.
Britta Sjogren gets a second chance to make a film about how people rebound from trauma.
Castro Theatre sets a whole week aside to celebrate the slick charms of the screen legend. Beginning on Wednesday, the institution will screen 14 of the star's films, from suspenseful actioneers 'North By Northwest' and 'Suspicion' to slap-happy comedies 'His Girl Friday' and 'I Was a Male War Bride'. The centerpiece of the retro is a new print of the beloved 'Bringing Up Baby,' also starring Katherine Hepburn. More info at castrotheatre.com.
When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.
When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.
When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.
The Roy W. Dean Film and Writing Grants fund shorts, documentaries and low budget independent features. ELIGIBILITY: New film and video projects (including works-in-progress) that are unique and benefit the society. Student filmmakers, independent producers or independent production companies are all welcome. AWARDS: Winner gets a variety of awards including scholarships and cash prizes for different production fields. DEADLINE: August 30, 2011. WEBSITE: fromtheheartproductions.com/grant-lavideo.shtml.
When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.
When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.
When news of San Francisco Executive Director Graham Leggat’s passing hit the web, responses were heartfelt and immediate. SF360 collects a few of those thoughts.
Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.
Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.
Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.
Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.
Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.
Leggat’s eventful six-year tenure with the San Francisco Film Society changed an institution as well as the filmmaking landscape in the Bay Area and beyond.
Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.
Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.
Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.
Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.
Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.
Graham Leggat (b. March 12, 1960), executive director of the San Francisco Film Society, died at his San Francisco home on August 25, 2011, after an 18-month battle with cancer. He was 51.
SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.
SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.
SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.
SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.
SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.
SF State professor Karl Cohen’s animation collection investigates the nature of pictorial movement itself.
Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.
Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.
Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.
Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.
Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.
Lynn Hershman Leeson catalogues revolutions past and pushes the art and technology envelope well into the future.
The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.
The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.
The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.
The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.
The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.
The San Francisco’s Film Commission's executive director offers notes on new incentives for production in the city.
Stock footage library and offbeat independent showcase Oddball Films screens 'An Eames Celebration,' Les Blank's doc on modern design icons the Eameses alongside a selection of the couple's own short films. RSVP to info@oddballfilm for entry at 275 Capp St., more at oddballfilm.com.
The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.
The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.
The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.
The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.
The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.
The Golden Gate Bridge remains in heavy rotation in sci-fi, action genres.
Filmmakers find themselves outside the 'buffer' zone as film about graffiti-abaters hits local screens, and streets. Editor's note: Vigilante, Vigilante: The Battle for Expression, a Bay Area-made film on graffiti "abatement," opened with a clamor last weekend at the Roxie, as San Francisco's Department of Public Works made an issue of cleaning up the film's street-art advertising campaign. The filmmakers responded that they've asked that their materials not be posted illegally, but that hasn't stopped DPW requesting them to cease and desist attracting audiences via wheatpaste. What follows is sf360.org's interview...
Filmmakers find themselves outside the 'buffer' zone as film about graffiti-abaters hits local screens, and streets. Editor's note: Vigilante, Vigilante: The Battle for Expression, a Bay Area-made film on graffiti "abatement," opened with a clamor last weekend at the Roxie, as San Francisco's Department of Public Works made an issue of cleaning up the film's street-art advertising campaign. The filmmakers responded that they've asked that their materials not be posted illegally, but that hasn't stopped DPW requesting them to cease and desist attracting audiences via wheatpaste. What follows is sf360.org's interview...
Pacific Film Archive screens 'The Makioka Sisters,' Kon Ichikawa's gorgeous and understated women's drama based on Tanizaki's novel of the same name. Lush color sequences of beautiful kimonos and cherry blossoms falling make this subtle masterpiece a joy to view on the large screen. New 35mm print shows Wednesday and Friday only. More info at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Viz Cinema wraps up its Classic Summer Weekends series in style with two Japanese cinematic landmarks. Equally unforgettable and each ravishingly gorgeous, masterworks Kenji Mizoguchi's 'Ugetsu' and Masaski Kobayashi's 'Kwaidan' screen Saturday and Sunday respectively. More info at newpeopleworld.com.
Canonized director John Huston's 'The African Queen,' now mostly remembered for its tumultuous production history, was also the director's biggest grossing film, securing Humphrey Bogart his first Oscar for acting. The Alameda Theatre screens this battle-of-the-sexes classic on film Wednesday and Thursday only. More info at alamedatheatres.com.
A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.
A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.
A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.
A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.
A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.
A collaborative project recounts the life and work of a German-born nun located outside Nairobi and the Sudanese Lost Girls she helped find.
Clio Barnard's ‘The Arbor’ takes a fascinating and unconventional look at Andrea Dunbar's brief, brilliant career.
Clio Barnard's ‘The Arbor’ takes a fascinating and unconventional look at Andrea Dunbar's brief, brilliant career.
Clio Barnard's ‘The Arbor’ takes a fascinating and unconventional look at Andrea Dunbar's brief, brilliant career.
UK Film Council, Emerging Pictures and the Mostly British Film Festival present a selection of new British films curated by Film Society of Lincoln Center. 'From Britain with Love' continues at Smith Rafael Film Center selected dates through September 18. More info at cafilm.org.
Viz Cinema, slated to begin programming as Film Society Cinema next month, continues its Classic Summer Weekends series with 35mm screenings of Akira Kurosawa's postwar lamentations 'Ikiru' and 'I Live In Fear,' playing on Friday and Saturday respectively. More info newpeopleworld.com.
Placing well-timed humor in a documentary film can be a great way to open minds.
Placing well-timed humor in a documentary film can be a great way to open minds.
Placing well-timed humor in a documentary film can be a great way to open minds.
The San Francisco Film Society and the Kenneth Rainin Foundation today announced the five winners and two honorable mentions of the fifth round of SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants. The grants are awarded twice annually to filmmakers for narrative feature films with social justice themes that will have significant economic or professional impact on the Bay Area filmmaking community. Between 2009 and 2013 the SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants will award nearly $2.5 million, including a total of $788,000 already awarded in the first five grant rounds.
Carlton Evans and Matthew Lessner (Ross), $50,000 for screenwriting; Aurora Guerrero (Mosquita y Mari), $88,000 for postproduction; Adam Keker (National Park), $35,000 for screenwriting; Timothy Kelly (The Cherokee Word for Water), $75,000 for production; Benh Zeitlin (Beasts of a Southern Wild), $55,000 for postproduction. Honorable Mentions went to: John Dilly (Rubbish), development and Ian Olds (The Western Habit), screenwriting. More at sffs.org.
The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.
The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.
The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.
The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.
The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.
The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.
Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.
Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.
Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.
Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.
Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.
Pacific Film Archive serves a full course of films by Marcel Pagnol.
Connie Field makes a radical shift to verité filmmaking, accompanied by an equally momentous switch in fundraising strategy with her latest project.
Connie Field makes a radical shift to verité filmmaking, accompanied by an equally momentous switch in fundraising strategy with her latest project.
Connie Field makes a radical shift to verité filmmaking, accompanied by an equally momentous switch in fundraising strategy with her latest project.
Film fans willing to make the trek to El Cerrito's Rialto Cinemas will be rewarded with a screening of Terrence Malick classic (and 'Badlands' companion-piece) 'Days of Heaven.' Concerning the desperate lives of a farm laborer and his lady love, Malick's bleak gem screens only once on Thursday, on the original celluloid. More info rialtocinemas.com.
The venerable Castro screen hosts a double feature of Kelly Reichardt's Malick-like 'Meek's Cutoff' and John Sayles' equally existentialist 'Limbo,' itself a good primer for less familiar viewers anticipating the release of his new film 'Amigo' in the coming months. More info castrotheatre.com.
Film buffs that missed SFJFF entry 'Between Two Worlds' at this year's festival have another opportunity to see the doc this week at the Roxie. A loose series of events beginning with the festival's own highly controversial screening of 'Rachel' in 2009, 'Between Two Worlds' is moored by a sublime ambient soundtrack by guitarist Fred Firth. For analysis, check out Ruby Rich's in-depth feature here on SF360. Filmmakers Alan Snitow and Deborah Kaufman will be present for Q&A for 7:00 pm screenings Friday, Saturday and Sunday. More info at roxie.com.
Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.
Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.
Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.
Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.
Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.
Thrill ride 'Point Blank' loses nothing in translation—it's a prime example of cinematic globalization.
The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’
The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’
The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’
Disney animation director John Musker, responsible for 'The Little Mermaid,' 'Aladdin' and a number of other contemporary favorites, appears at The Walt Disney Family Museum to give a short demonstration of the craft of animation to youth ages 8-12. Older aficionados of the director's work can head to PFA on Wednesday for a lecture and presentation by Musker. More info at sffs.org and bampfa.berkeley.edu.
The Stanford Theatre in Palo Alto screens a double feature of highly-regarded Hitchcock films 'North By Northwest' and 'Strangers on a Train' on the original celluloid. Runs through Friday, August 5. More info at stanfordtheatre.org.
SFMOMA's Opera on Film series continues with a screening of Otto Preminger's 'Carmen Jones,' based on George Bizet's 'Carmen' but recast as a WWII-era yarn with an all-black cast featuring Harry Belafonte and Dorothy Dandridge, who received an Oscar nom for her performance. Screening will be preceded by an introduction and live performance by entrancing New York artist Kalup Linzy. More info at sfmoma.org.
The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’
The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’
The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’
Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.
Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.
Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.
Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.
Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.
Filmmakers take personal approach to Jewish cultural debates.
Writes Leah Garchik, "Graham Leggat had said that it probably would be a small group, a gathering of a few friends he'd asked to come to Tosca on Tuesday night to see him. But Leggat, who a month ago stepped down as executive director of the San Francisco Film Society because of illness, has more than a few friends. And it seemed almost all of them wanted to see him, to thank him for what he'd accomplished in six years and, more than that, to embrace him with family-like affection." More at sfgate.com.
Berry Minott's work-in-progress travels to Guam seeking a cure, puzzling over scientific mystery.
Berry Minott's work-in-progress travels to Guam seeking a cure, puzzling over scientific mystery.
Berry Minott's work-in-progress travels to Guam seeking a cure, puzzling over scientific mystery.
Critics from the Bay Area and beyond weigh in on the weekend's openings.
Critics from the Bay Area and beyond weigh in on the weekend's openings.
Critics from the Bay Area and beyond weigh in on the weekend's openings.
Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.
Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.
Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.
The 31st San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, world's largest showcase of Jewish films, continues this week, opening at Berkeley's Roda Theatre on Saturday with a screening of historical drama 'Sarah's Key' starring Kristin Scott Thomas. The festival screens at a number of Bay Area venues. More info at sfjff.org.
4 Star Theatre screens John Woo's sweeping, polarizing 'Red Cliff,' still Asia's largest production at $80 million, along with its sequel 'Red Cliff II', his most recent film. Both films play uncut, on the original celluloid. More info at lntsf.com.
Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.
Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.
Deborah Peagler's case in 'Crime After Crime' gets its time in court and on screen, with moving results.
Smith Rafael presents a pre-release screening of 'Finding Joe,' a new doc centered around the teachings and discoveries of universal mythologist and screenwriter's savior Joseph Campbell, featuring appearances by artists and celebs, including Mick Fleetwood, Catherine Hardwicke, Deepak Chopra and others. Filmmaker Patrick Takaya Solomon and Joseph Campbell Foundation's Robert Walter will be in attendance for a discussion following the screening. More info at cafilm.org.
'Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff' is a lovely portrait of an innovator and consummate craftsman.
'Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff' is a lovely portrait of an innovator and consummate craftsman.
'Cameraman: The Life and Work of Jack Cardiff' is a lovely portrait of an innovator and consummate craftsman.
The best of the Bay Area's historical docs transform our understanding of previous eras, and, consequently, our own.
The best of the Bay Area's historical docs transform our understanding of previous eras, and, consequently, our own.
The best of the Bay Area's historical docs transform our understanding of previous eras, and, consequently, our own.
The planned "reversal" gives documentary filmmakers a means to build drama from otherwise anti-climactic moments.
The planned "reversal" gives documentary filmmakers a means to build drama from otherwise anti-climactic moments.
The planned "reversal" gives documentary filmmakers a means to build drama from otherwise anti-climactic moments.
In celebration of its 20th anniversary, Independent Television Service brings out an online festival, displaying 20 ITVS-supported docs between now and September 23. Representing only the tip of the iceberg of the locally based organization's vast film library, the festival features gems like 'Daughter from Danang,' 'King Corn' and 'The English Surgeon,' and screens the 20 films for three days each, for free. More info and scheduling at itvs.org.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Fassbinder's retro-chic, thought-provoking 'World on a Wire' finds the 'future' is now.
Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’
Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’
Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’
Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’
Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’
Filmmaker talks about Chicago, identity, music and the making of ‘Polish Bar.’
Written by 'Five Easy Pieces' scribe Carole Eastman and also starring Jack Nicholson, Monte Hellman's bleak, existential indie western, 'The Shooting,' is ripe for re-evaluation. Hellman, also director of polarizing American indie classic 'Two Lane Blacktop,' will be in attendance for this Saturday's screening at Smith Rafael Film Center. More info cafilm.org. Hellman will also appear Friday June 22 at SF's Roxie Theater for the local premiere of his new film 'Road to Nowhere.'
SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.
SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.
SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.
PFA opens Hands Up! with a double-bill of Polish New Wave legend Jerzy Skolimowski's early European works, 'Deep End' and 'The Shout,' both featuring bleak comedy, dynamic camera work and soundtrack contributions by then-avant touchstones (Can and Genesis, respectively). The series runs through August 25, see Dennis Harvey's in-depth coverage here. More info bampfa.berkeley.edu.
SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.
SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.
SFJFF covers broad geographic, political terrain.
SF Museum of Modern Art's Opera on Film series screens Jean-Jacques Beineix's under-appreciated 'Diva' on Thursday. The Caesar Award-winning romance/thriller hybrid deftly handles a complex, opera-centric plot littered with brilliant pop-art inspired chase scenes and features a number of standout performances, including those by Jeunet regular Dominique Pinon and real-life opera singer Wilhelmenia Wiggins Fernandez. More info sfmoma.org.
Counterpulse's Rough Cuts series continues with an in-progress screening of 'Bitter Seeds,' the latest globalization doc by Micha Peled ('Store Wars'). Emmy winners Dan Geller and Dayna Goldfine will moderate a post-film discussion. More info and RSVP at sfroughcuts.com.
The 31st San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, the world's largest showcase of Jewish film, opens at the Castro Theatre on Thursday with Israeli drama 'Mabul' (The Flood, nominated for six of Israel's 'Oscars'), and runs through August 8 at a number of Bay Area venues. An Opening Night bash follows at the Swedish American Hall. More info sfjff.org.
'If Marius Watz programmed it, then it's going to be vivid. It's going to be crisp, spiky and angular. It will be fast, bright and noisy. And there's going to be a whole, whole lot of it.'
'If Marius Watz programmed it, then it's going to be vivid. It's going to be crisp, spiky and angular. It will be fast, bright and noisy. And there's going to be a whole, whole lot of it.'
'If Marius Watz programmed it, then it's going to be vivid. It's going to be crisp, spiky and angular. It will be fast, bright and noisy. And there's going to be a whole, whole lot of it.'
Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.
Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.
Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.
Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.
Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.
Two Bay Area location-based features that speak to the moment are poised to stand the test of time.
Note to screenwriters: Don’t defeat the promise of your story by pulling your punches.
Note to screenwriters: Don’t defeat the promise of your story by pulling your punches.
Note to screenwriters: Don’t defeat the promise of your story by pulling your punches.
Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.
Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.
Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.
Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.
Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.
Pacific Film Archive’s ‘Hands Up! Essential Skolimowski’ surveys the Polish director’s confounding oeuvre.
Smith Rafael presents a sneak preview of Jennifer Fox's new Buddhist-centered doc 'My Reincarnation,' which details a son's alienation from and begrudging acceptance of his father's Buddhist teachings and the notion that he is a reincarnation of an important Tibetan monk. Screening benefits film completion fund; Fox will be in attendance for discussion. More info cafilm.org.
Actor’s first documentary outing pays tribute to Quest’s influence.
Actor’s first documentary outing pays tribute to Quest’s influence.
Actor’s first documentary outing pays tribute to Quest’s influence.
Red Vic screens Jonathan Demme's epoch-making Talking Heads concert film 'Stop Making Sense' on the original 35mm. Red Vic will close its doors forever July 25. More info redvicmoviehouse.com.
Roxie presents as-yet-unreleased-to-DVD 'Skatetown, U.S.A.,' Patrick Swayze's first on-screen appearance. The big-budget camp classic, presented on film in all its sparkling, neon-pink, disco-soaked glory, will be accompanied by a "roller disco" at Cellspace. More info roxie.com.
San Francisco Silent Film Festival features the work of the most important female director of the silent era, Lois Weber.
San Francisco Silent Film Festival features the work of the most important female director of the silent era, Lois Weber.
San Francisco Silent Film Festival features the work of the most important female director of the silent era, Lois Weber.
YBCA kicks off its Smut Captial of America series with a film of the same name by Michael Stabile, who will be present for discussion at the screening. The in-progress doc chronicles the sex scene in San Francisco in the ’60s and ’70s and the city's rise to prominence as the country's porn capital. SCoA runs through August 18. More info at ybca.org.
The SF institution returns to the Castro Theatre with 18 rediscovered films and live musical accompaniment. Highlights include a collection of Disney's Laugh-O-Grams, a travelogue of an expedition to the Antarctic and a film once cited as "the single greatest masterwork in the history of cinema" by stately film journal Cahiers du Cinema. More info castrotheatre.com.
SF filmmakers Peter Adair and Ellen Bruno created classics on religious intensity.
SF filmmakers Peter Adair and Ellen Bruno created classics on religious intensity.
SF filmmakers Peter Adair and Ellen Bruno created classics on religious intensity.
A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.
A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.
A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.
A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.
A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.
A legal expert offers advice on staying within the law while shedding extra layers.
Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.
Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.
Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.
Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.
Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.
Chusy Jardine has set out to tell the Andres Torres ADHD-to-World Series glory story in a feature-length documentary.
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
From now until mid-August, PFA screens a series of films by Italian master Bernardo Bertolucci. The series begins on Friday with Bertoluci's early-career rumination on the nature of love and youthful idealism, 'Before the Revolution.' More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Fascinating SFIFF-screened doc 'Page One: Inside the New York Times' starts its run at Smith Rafael Film Center this Friday. More at cafilm.org. (It also continues at other Bay Area theaters.)
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
'A Better Life' succeeds as an L.A.-set remake of bleak Italian neorealist classic 'The Bicycle Thief.'
Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.
Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.
Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.
Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.
Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.
Surprising characters, narratives emerge in Jamie Meltzer and Amanda Micheli’s portraits of unlikely artists.
A former Bay Area filmmaker travels the world in search of the secrets of contentment.
A former Bay Area filmmaker travels the world in search of the secrets of contentment.
A former Bay Area filmmaker travels the world in search of the secrets of contentment.
Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.
Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.
Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.
Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.
Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.
Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.
A film festival and conference offered audiences and makers opportunities to move forward.
A film festival and conference offered audiences and makers opportunities to move forward.
A film festival and conference offered audiences and makers opportunities to move forward.
Press release: The Ninth Street Independent Film Center announced today five new participants for the Center's Media Arts Incubator Program for 2011-2012. "This is a great group of participants," says Skye Christensen, Executive Director of the Ninth Street Independent Film Center. "Each brings a very dynamic project to the Program, and we're really looking forward to what they'll accomplish during their time here." Ninth Street’s Media Arts Incubator Program is designed to nurture socially relevant independent media projects at Ninth Street Independent Film Center. The Incubator Program supports independent filmmakers, start-up film festivals and small media nonprofits through access to workspace and shared resources, such as cross-promotional opportunities, co-productions, affordable meeting or exhibition space and community connections with established media arts partners (Center for Asian American Media, Frameline, San Francisco Jewish Film Festival, and others). Participants are: Rachel Caplan (CEO) and Daniela Rible (Deputy Director) of the annual SF Green Film Festival; Jennifer Tipton and Cary McQueen Morrow, the directors of Art with Impact, which is a platform for the creation of new media on critical social issues; David Evan Harris, Executive Director of the Global Lives Project, a media arts nonprofit that seeks to collaboratively build a video library of human life experience; Scarlett Shepard is Executive Director of the SF Women’s Film Festival; and J.R. Flemming, director and producer of Guarding Dogs, which is a documentary film with a crowd-sourcing model currently in production that makes the case for adopting a dog instead breeding/buying.
New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.
New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.
New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.
Pacific Film Archive's series of female-centered classic Japanese cinema continues with screenings of 'The Life of Oharu,' 'Rashomon' and 'Sancho the Bailiff'. Series runs through late August. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.
New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.
New series spotlights the fascination with Mexico in American noir.
Rick Minnick, oldest son a middle-aged father of five who started a new life after suffering from amnesia, returns to California in an attempt to discover the truth behind his father's disappearance in this haunting doc. Minnick and some film subjects will be present for Q&A at both screenings. More at redvic.com.
One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.
One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.
One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.
One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.
One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.
One day of Frameline35 finds Witi Ihimaera offering insight into the writing of 'Kawa,' dour Norweigan drag kings processing endlessly and Ma Rainey being well-remembered.
It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.
It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.
It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.
It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.
It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.
It gets better: Frameline35 offers a strong selection of work about youth.
Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.
Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.
Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.
Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.
Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.
Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.
SFFS to offer daily, year-round programming, classes and events in dedicated state-of-the-art theater for the first time in its 54-year history. The San Francisco Film Society and New People today announced significant news for Bay Area filmgoers: the signing of a lease that brings the Film Society’s exhibition, education and filmmaker services programs and events to one primary theater on a daily, year-round basis, beginning in September. The San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema opens its doors in September in the state-of-the art...
SFFS to offer daily, year-round programming, classes and events in dedicated state-of-the-art theater for the first time in its 54-year history. The San Francisco Film Society and New People today announced significant news for Bay Area filmgoers: the signing of a lease that brings the Film Society’s exhibition, education and filmmaker services programs and events to one primary theater on a daily, year-round basis, beginning in September. The San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema opens its doors in September in the state-of-the art...
SFFS to offer daily, year-round programming, classes and events in dedicated state-of-the-art theater for the first time in its 54-year history. The San Francisco Film Society and New People today announced significant news for Bay Area filmgoers: the signing of a lease that brings the Film Society’s exhibition, education and filmmaker services programs and events to one primary theater on a daily, year-round basis, beginning in September. The San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema opens its doors in September in the state-of-the art...
In its 35th anniversary year, Frameline brings a vastly diverse selection of films to the world's largest LGBT showcase. It continues through June 26. More at Frameline.org.
In its 35th anniversary year, Frameline brings a vastly diverse selection of films to the world's largest LGBT showcase. It continues through June 26. More at Frameline.org.
PFA's retrospective of experimental touchstones George and Mike Kuchar continues with a screening of rare 8mm shorts and both brothers in conversation with pioneering media theorist Gene Youngblood at 7:00 pm. Program runs through June 26. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Louie Psihoyos' and Roc O'Barry's immersive, award-winning eco-doc 'The Cove' screens with a live performance by Bob Weir of the Grateful Dead and post-film discussion with both directors at the Smith Rafael. Ticket sales benefit the Earth Island Institute and Save Japan Dolphins. More at cafilm.org.
SFFS to offer daily, year-round programming, classes and events in dedicated state-of-the-art theater for the first time in its 54-year history. The San Francisco Film Society and New People today announced significant news for Bay Area filmgoers: the signing of a lease that brings the Film Society’s exhibition, education and filmmaker services programs and events to one primary theater on a daily, year-round basis, beginning in September. The San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema opens its doors in September in the state-of-the art...
SFFS to offer daily, year-round programming, classes and events in dedicated state-of-the-art theater for the first time in its 54-year history. The San Francisco Film Society and New People today announced significant news for Bay Area filmgoers: the signing of a lease that brings the Film Society’s exhibition, education and filmmaker services programs and events to one primary theater on a daily, year-round basis, beginning in September. The San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema opens its doors in September in the state-of-the art...
SFFS to offer daily, year-round programming, classes and events in dedicated state-of-the-art theater for the first time in its 54-year history. The San Francisco Film Society and New People today announced significant news for Bay Area filmgoers: the signing of a lease that brings the Film Society’s exhibition, education and filmmaker services programs and events to one primary theater on a daily, year-round basis, beginning in September. The San Francisco Film Society | New People Cinema opens its doors in September in the state-of-the art...
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Filmmaker Jan Krawitz explores the nature of altruism in a story about a woman seeking to donate an organ to a perfect stranger.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Stabile film at Frameline, Tribeca and, soon, YBCA, looks at San Francisco’s sex-film history.
Directors Paul Mariano and Kurt Norton inspect the treasures held in the Library of Congress' revered National Film Registry and consider their lasting impact on the American experience. The locally made doc features insightful interviews with prominent celebrities and critics. Both filmmakers will be present for Q&A after screening at Smith Rafael Film Center. More at cafilm.org.
First-time doc-maker Dain Percifield offers notes on capturing the highs and lows of drag queen Anna Conda's 2010 run for S.F. Supervisor.
First-time doc-maker Dain Percifield offers notes on capturing the highs and lows of drag queen Anna Conda's 2010 run for S.F. Supervisor.
First-time doc-maker Dain Percifield offers notes on capturing the highs and lows of drag queen Anna Conda's 2010 run for S.F. Supervisor.
First-time doc-maker Dain Percifield offers notes on capturing the highs and lows of drag queen Anna Conda's 2010 run for S.F. Supervisor.
YBCA digs a delightfully disturbing live Kinski document from the archives.
YBCA digs a delightfully disturbing live Kinski document from the archives.
The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival delivers internationally as well as locally made films of every identity and genre stripe.
The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival delivers internationally as well as locally made films of every identity and genre stripe.
The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival delivers internationally as well as locally made films of every identity and genre stripe.
SF IndieFest's annual Another Hole in the Head Film Festival, which features 16 entertaining, inexplicable days of contemporary, comedic, sci-fi and dark fantasy horror films, continues for another week. The event is hosted by Roxie Theater. More at sfindie.com.
SF IndieFest's annual Another Hole in the Head Film Festival, which features 16 entertaining, inexplicable days of contemporary, comedic, sci-fi and dark fantasy horror films, continues for another week. The event is hosted by Roxie Theater. More at sfindie.com.
SF IndieFest's annual Another Hole in the Head Film Festival, which features 16 entertaining, inexplicable days of contemporary, comedic, sci-fi and dark fantasy horror films, continues for another week. The event is hosted by Roxie Theater. More at sfindie.com.
The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival delivers internationally as well as locally made films of every identity and genre stripe.
The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival delivers internationally as well as locally made films of every identity and genre stripe.
The San Francisco International LGBT Film Festival delivers internationally as well as locally made films of every identity and genre stripe.
One film was not enough to quench Frans Weisz’s fascination with Nazi-era artist Charlotte Salomon.
One film was not enough to quench Frans Weisz’s fascination with Nazi-era artist Charlotte Salomon.
One film was not enough to quench Frans Weisz’s fascination with Nazi-era artist Charlotte Salomon.
Indie/art-film portal Fandor screens the rare and influential mock-doc 'David Holzman's Diary' at the Victoria Theatre. Filmmaker Jim McBride will be in attendance. Free, RSVP required. More at eventbrite.com.
Asking the right questions is an art; a consultant speaks on how to conduct documentary interviews that will help structure your film.
Asking the right questions is an art; a consultant speaks on how to conduct documentary interviews that will help structure your film.
Asking the right questions is an art; a consultant speaks on how to conduct documentary interviews that will help structure your film.
An SF Chronicle editor speaks about his third feature, a Texas-set sex comedy making its debut at Frameline35.
An SF Chronicle editor speaks about his third feature, a Texas-set sex comedy making its debut at Frameline35.
An SF Chronicle editor speaks about his third feature, a Texas-set sex comedy making its debut at Frameline35.
An SF Chronicle editor speaks about his third feature, a Texas-set sex comedy making its debut at Frameline35.
An SF Chronicle editor speaks about his third feature, a Texas-set sex comedy making its debut at Frameline35.
An SF Chronicle editor speaks about his third feature, a Texas-set sex comedy making its debut at Frameline35.
The Historic Bal Theatre brings us a screening of Bay Area filmmaker Vincent Cortez’s latest feature, ‘The Hush,’ a 2011 Oakland International Film Festival selection and LA Festival honorable mention. The film is a locally shot supernatural film noir piece that has a hitman looking for redemption. More at mitchellstreetpictures.com.
The Historic Bal Theatre brings us a screening of Bay Area filmmaker Vincent Cortez’s latest feature, ‘The Hush,’ a 2011 Oakland International Film Festival selection and LA Festival honorable mention. The film is a locally shot supernatural film noir piece that has a hitman looking for redemption. More at mitchellstreetpictures.com.
An historical-romantic novel in screen form, 'Bride Flight' offers all the pleasures (some guilty ones) of a film made half a century ago.
An historical-romantic novel in screen form, 'Bride Flight' offers all the pleasures (some guilty ones) of a film made half a century ago.
An historical-romantic novel in screen form, 'Bride Flight' offers all the pleasures (some guilty ones) of a film made half a century ago.
Throughout the month of June, Pacific Film Archive features a half century of alternately feverish, dark, confessional, parodic work from filmmaker brothers George and Mike Kuchar, starting with their 1965 feature, ‘Sins of the Fleshapoids,’ at which Mike Kuchar appears in person. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Arthur Penn is the focus of a monthlong series at Pacific Film Archive, beginning with 1958’s Gore Vidal-written revisionist Western, ‘The Left Handed Gun,’ which features Paul Newman. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Ben Sombogaart’s ‘Bride Flight’ opens at Smith Rafael Film Center. The Dutch feature pursues drama in the stories of three women taking a plane flight to meet their awaiting fiancés. More at cafilm.org.
An historical-romantic novel in screen form, 'Bride Flight' offers all the pleasures (some guilty ones) of a film made half a century ago.
An historical-romantic novel in screen form, 'Bride Flight' offers all the pleasures (some guilty ones) of a film made half a century ago.
An historical-romantic novel in screen form, 'Bride Flight' offers all the pleasures (some guilty ones) of a film made half a century ago.
San Francisco Film Society commemorates 20 years of education programs in 2011. Since 1991, the San Francisco Film Society has been educating youth in film, but it’s not all elementary, or middle, or high school-oriented: What began as a K–12 Schools at the Festival program that brought students and international cinema together has, 20 years later, grown into year-round educational programming that serves not just under-18s, but lifelong learners, professional and novice filmmakers and university students.
San Francisco Film Society commemorates 20 years of education programs in 2011. Since 1991, the San Francisco Film Society has been educating youth in film, but it’s not all elementary, or middle, or high school-oriented: What began as a K–12 Schools at the Festival program that brought students and international cinema together has, 20 years later, grown into year-round educational programming that serves not just under-18s, but lifelong learners, professional and novice filmmakers and university students.
San Francisco Film Society commemorates 20 years of education programs in 2011. Since 1991, the San Francisco Film Society has been educating youth in film, but it’s not all elementary, or middle, or high school-oriented: What began as a K–12 Schools at the Festival program that brought students and international cinema together has, 20 years later, grown into year-round educational programming that serves not just under-18s, but lifelong learners, professional and novice filmmakers and university students.
San Francisco Film Society commemorates 20 years of education programs in 2011. Since 1991, the San Francisco Film Society has been educating youth in film, but it’s not all elementary, or middle, or high school-oriented: What began as a K–12 Schools at the Festival program that brought students and international cinema together has, 20 years later, grown into year-round educational programming that serves not just under-18s, but lifelong learners, professional and novice filmmakers and university students.
San Francisco Film Society commemorates 20 years of education programs in 2011. Since 1991, the San Francisco Film Society has been educating youth in film, but it’s not all elementary, or middle, or high school-oriented: What began as a K–12 Schools at the Festival program that brought students and international cinema together has, 20 years later, grown into year-round educational programming that serves not just under-18s, but lifelong learners, professional and novice filmmakers and university students.
San Francisco Film Society commemorates 20 years of education programs in 2011. Since 1991, the San Francisco Film Society has been educating youth in film, but it’s not all elementary, or middle, or high school-oriented: What began as a K–12 Schools at the Festival program that brought students and international cinema together has, 20 years later, grown into year-round educational programming that serves not just under-18s, but lifelong learners, professional and novice filmmakers and university students.
The 1967 nearly dialogue-free comedy ‘Playtime,’ which is the fourth feature and the most notably boldest piece from late French filmmaker-actor Jacques Tati, plays at Castro Theatre. More at castrotheatre.com.
A filmmaker finds the rigors of circus life match the rigors of growing up in poverty in Brazil.
A filmmaker finds the rigors of circus life match the rigors of growing up in poverty in Brazil.
A filmmaker finds the rigors of circus life match the rigors of growing up in poverty in Brazil.
Press release: Fandor, a new on-demand provider of independent films, along with distributors Kino Lorber and Microcinema International, today announced it is pioneering the coordinated theatrical and digital premier, a first for the industry. The first film to be released under the coordinated theatrical and digital premier paradigm will be the June 15 re-release of 'David Holzman's Diary.' More at microcinema.com and fandor.com.
Whalen speaks from experience on the importance of story and drama in nonfiction filmmaking.
Whalen speaks from experience on the importance of story and drama in nonfiction filmmaking.
Whalen speaks from experience on the importance of story and drama in nonfiction filmmaking.
Italian director Giuseppe Tornatore (‘Cinema Paradiso’) crafts a love note to his birthplace in Northern Sicily, employing a cast of thousand to create a portrait of post-Fascist Italy, with an Ennio Morricone score. Plays at Smith Rafael Film Center. More cafilm.org.
A documentary digs into New York's 'No Wave' movement that briefly flourished in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
A documentary digs into New York's 'No Wave' movement that briefly flourished in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
A documentary digs into New York's 'No Wave' movement that briefly flourished in the late 1970s and early ’80s.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
Castro Theatre hosts a double feature of Oscar-nominated Sidney Lumet films, beginning with 1976’s ‘Network’ and following with 1957’s ’12 Angry Men.’ More castrotheatre.com.
Josh Shelov’s comedy ‘The Best & The Brightest’ plays at Roxie Theater before its wide release this summer. The film features Neil Patrick Harris and Bonnie Somerville as yuppies from New York fighting to get their daughter into an elitist private kindergarten. More at roxie.com.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The adventure of Another Hole in the Head Film Festival requires you risk seeing the occasional dud to seek out the gems.
The Roxie's new leaders offer notes on their unique vision for the rep house.
The Roxie's new leaders offer notes on their unique vision for the rep house.
The Roxie's new leaders offer notes on their unique vision for the rep house.
The Roxie's new leaders offer notes on their unique vision for the rep house.
The Roxie's new leaders offer notes on their unique vision for the rep house.
The Roxie's new leaders offer notes on their unique vision for the rep house.
Red Vic Movie House hosts ‘Big In Bollywood,’ a film about a struggling 27-year-old actor who lands a dream role in a overly successful Bollywood film. Directors Kenny Meehan and Bill Bowles are in attendance. More at redvicmoviehouse.com.
Red Vic Movie House hosts ‘Big In Bollywood,’ a film about a struggling 27-year-old actor who lands a dream role in a overly successful Bollywood film. Directors Kenny Meehan and Bill Bowles are in attendance. More at redvicmoviehouse.com.
Viz Cinema at New People hosts their third fundraiser event, presenting the Japanese film ‘Kamikaze Girls.’ Proceeds benefit Northern Japan Earthquake Relief Funds. More at newpeopleworld.com.
Danish filmmaker/artist Michael Madsen turns questions around a European nuclear-waste project into an operatic doc.
Danish filmmaker/artist Michael Madsen turns questions around a European nuclear-waste project into an operatic doc.
Danish filmmaker/artist Michael Madsen turns questions around a European nuclear-waste project into an operatic doc.
The Castro's Elizabeth Taylor retrospective brings the actress back to her most devoted fans. The first and last time I attended the now-defunct Taos Film Festival, it gave a tribute to Elizabeth Taylor (who lived in the area), allowing me to spend an hour sitting about ten feet from one of the most famous movie stars ever. Arriving by wheelchair with a little dog on her lap, she was petite and attractive, though infirmity had taken its own toll on her figure. She was also funny, candid, unpretentious, occasionally ribald, passionately serious about her causes (especially AIDS research and education), and a little dotty—occasionally she'd drift off on some strange...
The Castro's Elizabeth Taylor retrospective brings the actress back to her most devoted fans. The first and last time I attended the now-defunct Taos Film Festival, it gave a tribute to Elizabeth Taylor (who lived in the area), allowing me to spend an hour sitting about ten feet from one of the most famous movie stars ever. Arriving by wheelchair with a little dog on her lap, she was petite and attractive, though infirmity had taken its own toll on her figure. She was also funny, candid, unpretentious, occasionally ribald, passionately serious about her causes (especially AIDS research and education), and a little dotty—occasionally she'd drift off on some strange...
Margaret Cho, transgender cinema are highlights of 2011 LGBT festival.
Margaret Cho, transgender cinema are highlights of 2011 LGBT festival.
Margaret Cho, transgender cinema are highlights of 2011 LGBT festival.
Margaret Cho, transgender cinema are highlights of 2011 LGBT festival.
Margaret Cho, transgender cinema are highlights of 2011 LGBT festival.
Margaret Cho, transgender cinema are highlights of 2011 LGBT festival.
S. Smith Patrick shares purpose with the children she films.
S. Smith Patrick shares purpose with the children she films.
S. Smith Patrick shares purpose with the children she films.
S. Smith Patrick shares purpose with the children she films.
S. Smith Patrick shares purpose with the children she films.
S. Smith Patrick shares purpose with the children she films.
Leanne Pooley's Topp Twins documentary views world politics through the prism of two eccentric lesbian performers from New Zealand.
Leanne Pooley's Topp Twins documentary views world politics through the prism of two eccentric lesbian performers from New Zealand.
Leanne Pooley's Topp Twins documentary views world politics through the prism of two eccentric lesbian performers from New Zealand.
Leanne Pooley's Topp Twins documentary views world politics through the prism of two eccentric lesbian performers from New Zealand.
Leanne Pooley's Topp Twins documentary views world politics through the prism of two eccentric lesbian performers from New Zealand.
Leanne Pooley's Topp Twins documentary views world politics through the prism of two eccentric lesbian performers from New Zealand.
Smith Rafael Film Center hosts Shorts in Brief: A Family Festival, featuring short films from Asia, Africa, Europe, South and North America. More at cafilm.org.
A local fan of a local cinema has big dreams for his favorite, now-defunct East Bay movie-theater.
A local fan of a local cinema has big dreams for his favorite, now-defunct East Bay movie-theater.
A local fan of a local cinema has big dreams for his favorite, now-defunct East Bay movie-theater.
Roxie Theater brings in two weeks of rare film noir in its I Wake Up Dreaming 2011: The Legendary and the Lost program. A full 14 double features, including ‘The Web’ and ‘711 Ocean Drive,’ are presented in 35mm prints. More at roxie.com.
Roxie Theater brings in two weeks of rare film noir in its I Wake Up Dreaming 2011: The Legendary and the Lost program. A full 14 double features, including ‘The Web’ and ‘711 Ocean Drive,’ are presented in 35mm prints. More at roxie.com.
Castro Theatre hosts a double feature of films by writers-directors Joel and Ethan Coen, beginning with 1987's ‘Raising Arizona’ and followed by 1998's ‘The Big Lebowski.’ More at castrotheatre.com.
Filmmaker Lisa and Zen Priest Tai Sheridan are in person for a benefit screening of ‘My Brother Mike,’ a documentary on the impact that music and a loving support system has on a family struggling with mental illness. More at cafilm.org.
City College of San Francisco offers a best-of program in the one day, student-run City Shorts Film Festival. The festival is free to the public. More at cityshorts.tumblr.com.
The vivid mindscapes of Allen Ginsberg's poems come to radical life in Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman's James Franco-fied 'Howl' via the art of Ginsberg collaborator Eric Drooker. The Cartoon Art Museum showcases 'The Art of Howl,' with Drooker's work, storyboards, photos and multimedia. More at cartoonart.org.
John Antonelli finds good news, bad news and plenty of drama in African environmental stories.
John Antonelli finds good news, bad news and plenty of drama in African environmental stories.
Nonfiction filmmakers are re-engaging audiences with an entrepreneurial spirit and a focus on creative narrative strategy.
Nonfiction filmmakers are re-engaging audiences with an entrepreneurial spirit and a focus on creative narrative strategy.
Nonfiction filmmakers are re-engaging audiences with an entrepreneurial spirit and a focus on creative narrative strategy.
The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.
The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.
The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.
The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.
The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.
The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.
The devil is in the details of I Wake Up Screaming, the Roxie's annual two-week spring celebration of noir's shadiest titles.
The devil is in the details of I Wake Up Screaming, the Roxie's annual two-week spring celebration of noir's shadiest titles.
The devil is in the details of I Wake Up Screaming, the Roxie's annual two-week spring celebration of noir's shadiest titles.
Viz Cinema at New People hosts the Legacy Film Festival on Aging, offering three days of shorts and features from around the world that deal with the difficulties and appreciation of growing older. The program begins with ‘Ruth Awasa: Roots of an Artist,’ a documentary about the famous artist, with director Bob Toy and Ruth’s children in attendance for a Q&A following the screening. More at newpeopleworld.com.
‘The Double Hour (La Doppia Ora),’ an Italian thriller from first-time director Giuseppe Capotondi that The New York Times touted as “the best movie of its kind,” plays at Smith Rafael Film Center. More at cafilm.org.
'Nostalgia for the Light' may be the most optimistic film in Guzmán's oeuvre, but he still knows how to make us cry, mourn and remember.
'Nostalgia for the Light' may be the most optimistic film in Guzmán's oeuvre, but he still knows how to make us cry, mourn and remember.
'Nostalgia for the Light' may be the most optimistic film in Guzmán's oeuvre, but he still knows how to make us cry, mourn and remember.
Director Claude Marks participates in a discussion following the screening of his film, ‘COINTELPRO 101,’ which presents the history and impact of the FBI Counter Intelligence Program. More at redvicmoviehouse.com.
'Zoo' director Robinson Devor uncovers the strange history behind the Gerald Ford assassination attempt in ’70s San Francisco.
'Zoo' director Robinson Devor uncovers the strange history behind the Gerald Ford assassination attempt in ’70s San Francisco.
'Zoo' director Robinson Devor uncovers the strange history behind the Gerald Ford assassination attempt in ’70s San Francisco.
Filmmakers, critics and fans celebrate their mothers’ unique, eccentric, foundational contributions to their movie-loving lives.
Filmmakers, critics and fans celebrate their mothers’ unique, eccentric, foundational contributions to their movie-loving lives.
Filmmakers, critics and fans celebrate their mothers’ unique, eccentric, foundational contributions to their movie-loving lives.
Filmmakers, critics and fans celebrate their mothers’ unique, eccentric, foundational contributions to their movie-loving lives.
Filmmakers, critics and fans celebrate their mothers’ unique, eccentric, foundational contributions to their movie-loving lives.
Filmmakers, critics and fans celebrate their mothers’ unique, eccentric, foundational contributions to their movie-loving lives.
Kelly Reichardt creates a moving meditation on open space with 'Meek's Cutoff.'
Kelly Reichardt creates a moving meditation on open space with 'Meek's Cutoff.'
Kelly Reichardt creates a moving meditation on open space with 'Meek's Cutoff.'
Kelly Reichardt creates a moving meditation on open space with 'Meek's Cutoff.'
Kelly Reichardt creates a moving meditation on open space with 'Meek's Cutoff.'
Kelly Reichardt creates a moving meditation on open space with 'Meek's Cutoff.'
Opening weekend of ‘These Amazing Shadows,’ a docu on American movies, features Q&As with its Bay Area filmmakers, as well as other local figures, including SF Chron critic Mick LaSalle, SF Public Defender (and filmmaker) Jeff Adachi and cinematographer Frazer Bradshaw. More at theseamazingshadows.com.
Cash prizes, recognition showered on the winning filmmakers of 2011 San Francisco International. The San Francisco International Film Festival presented its 2011 Golden Gate Awards to filmmakers Wednesday night at Temple Nightclub/Prana Restaurant. Kelly Duane de la Vega and Katie Galloway's Better This World won both Documentary Feature and Bay Area Documentary awards. Yoav Potash's Crime After Crime received the Investigative Documentary prize. Park Jung-bum's The Journals of Musan won the New Directors award. A complete list...
Cash prizes, recognition showered on the winning filmmakers of 2011 San Francisco International. The San Francisco International Film Festival presented its 2011 Golden Gate Awards to filmmakers Wednesday night at Temple Nightclub/Prana Restaurant. Kelly Duane de la Vega and Katie Galloway's Better This World won both Documentary Feature and Bay Area Documentary awards. Yoav Potash's Crime After Crime received the Investigative Documentary prize. Park Jung-bum's The Journals of Musan won the New Directors award. A complete list...
Castro Theatre hosts the final evening of SFIFF54, which features Mathieu Amalric’s ‘On Tour,’ a film that tells the story of a has-been French TV producer who stages his comeback with burlesque performers. A party follows at The Factory. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Cash prizes, recognition showered on the winning filmmakers of 2011 San Francisco International. The San Francisco International Film Festival presented its 2011 Golden Gate Awards to filmmakers Wednesday night at Temple Nightclub/Prana Restaurant. Kelly Duane de la Vega and Katie Galloway's Better This World won both Documentary Feature and Bay Area Documentary awards. Yoav Potash's Crime After Crime received the Investigative Documentary prize. Park Jung-bum's The Journals of Musan won the New Directors award. A complete list...
Cash prizes, recognition showered on the winning filmmakers of 2011 San Francisco International. The San Francisco International Film Festival presented its 2011 Golden Gate Awards to filmmakers Wednesday night at Temple Nightclub/Prana Restaurant. Kelly Duane de la Vega and Katie Galloway's Better This World won both Documentary Feature and Bay Area Documentary awards. Yoav Potash's Crime After Crime received the Investigative Documentary prize. Park Jung-bum's The Journals of Musan won the New Directors award. A complete list...
Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’
Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’
Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’
Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’
Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’
Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’
Screenwriter Frank Pierson talks production at SFIFF54; Bay Area-made 'These Amazing Shadows' screens after the Festival closes.
Screenwriter Frank Pierson talks production at SFIFF54; Bay Area-made 'These Amazing Shadows' screens after the Festival closes.
Screenwriter Frank Pierson talks production at SFIFF54; Bay Area-made 'These Amazing Shadows' screens after the Festival closes.
SFFS's Schools at the Festival toasts its 20 years with clips, stories, tributes, food and drink (5:00 pm), followed by a special Teacher Appreciation Night screening of ‘American Teacher’ (6:30 pm), a documentary exploring the frustrating realities facing public school teachers, with special guests in attendance. More at fest11.sffs.org.
‘Letters from the Big Man,’ a story of a friendship built between a young woman and a sasquatch, plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas and New People with director Christopher Munch in town. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.
Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.
Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.
Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.
Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.
Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.
Writers for the Festival’s daily ‘Scoop’ capture live director-audience interactions.
Writers for the Festival’s daily ‘Scoop’ capture live director-audience interactions.
Writers for the Festival’s daily ‘Scoop’ capture live director-audience interactions.
The Sundance Film Festival Audience Award winner, ‘Circumstance,’ which tells the story of two Iranian women who fall in love, plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas on May 1 and May 3. Director Maryam Keshavarz attends each screening of her debut feature. More at fest11.sffs.org.
‘The Salesman,’ a feature that follows an aging car salesman in a struggling Quebec town, plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas on May 1 and Pacific Film Archive on May 3. Director Sebastian Pilote attends the screenings. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Writers for the Festival’s daily ‘Scoop’ capture live director-audience interactions.
Writers for the Festival’s daily ‘Scoop’ capture live director-audience interactions.
Writers for the Festival’s daily ‘Scoop’ capture live director-audience interactions.
In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.
In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.
In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.
San Francisco International Film Festival’s 2011 Centerpiece selection, ‘Terri,’ featuring John C. Reilly as a vice principle who befriends an insecure junior high student, plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas with director Azazel Jacobs and actor Jacob Wysocki in attendance. The evening’s after party is at Clift's Velvet Room. More at fest11.sffs.org.
In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.
In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.
In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.
San Francisco director Emily Lou attends the screening of her comedic horror film, ‘The Selling,’ which tells the story of a real estate agent who struggles to sell a haunted house. Film plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.
Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.
Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.
Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.
Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.
Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.
Oliver Stone reflects on his own heated past, and the world’s, as he accepts the Founder’s Directing Award onstage at the Castro Theatre during SFIFF54.
Oliver Stone reflects on his own heated past, and the world’s, as he accepts the Founder’s Directing Award onstage at the Castro Theatre during SFIFF54.
Oliver Stone reflects on his own heated past, and the world’s, as he accepts the Founder’s Directing Award onstage at the Castro Theatre during SFIFF54.
The metaphysical mystery ‘Asleep In The Sun,’ featuring a watchmaker and his dog-loving wife in the 1950s, plays at Sundance Kubaki Cinemas on April 28 and New People on April 30, with director Alejandro Chomski in attendance. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Oliver Stone reflects on his own heated past, and the world’s, as he accepts the Founder’s Directing Award onstage at the Castro Theatre during SFIFF54.
Oliver Stone reflects on his own heated past, and the world’s, as he accepts the Founder’s Directing Award onstage at the Castro Theatre during SFIFF54.
Oliver Stone reflects on his own heated past, and the world’s, as he accepts the Founder’s Directing Award onstage at the Castro Theatre during SFIFF54.
The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.
The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.
The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.
‘She Monkeys,’ a coming-of-age psychological drama about the friendship and competitiveness of two teenage females fighting for a spot on the local equestrian vaulting team, plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas on April 25 and 26, with director Lisa Aschan in attendance. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Bay Area director Yoav Potash attends screenings of his documentary ‘Crime After Crime,’ which showcases the story of a female prisoner and the two pro bono lawyers who fight for her release over five and a half years. The film plays at Pacific Film Archive on April 27 and Sundance Kubaki Cinemas on May 2. More at fest11.sffs.org.
The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.
The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.
The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.
A soundtrack staple in the Denis oeuvre, Tindersticks play their beautifully brooding music live to clips at SFIFF54.
A soundtrack staple in the Denis oeuvre, Tindersticks play their beautifully brooding music live to clips at SFIFF54.
A soundtrack staple in the Denis oeuvre, Tindersticks play their beautifully brooding music live to clips at SFIFF54.
Bay Area directors are high profile in the 54th San Francisco International Film Festival; catch them in person this week. Katie Galloway and Kelly Duane de la Vega appear Tuesday with Bradley Crowder, a principal of ‘Better This World,’ a documentary that traces the paths of activists deemed the "Texas Two." The film plays at Pacific Film Archive on April 26 and Sundance Kubaki Cinemas on April 29. More at fest11.sffs.org.
A soundtrack staple in the Denis oeuvre, Tindersticks play their beautifully brooding music live to clips at SFIFF54.
A soundtrack staple in the Denis oeuvre, Tindersticks play their beautifully brooding music live to clips at SFIFF54.
A soundtrack staple in the Denis oeuvre, Tindersticks play their beautifully brooding music live to clips at SFIFF54.
Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.
Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.
Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.
Press release: The San Francisco International Film Festival (April 21 - May 5) announced that the Festival has been invited to join Festival Scope, a new Internet platform that allows programming of selected film festivals to be viewed online by film professionals around the world. More at sffs.org.
Press release: New People Entertainment, a film division of New People, Inc. that focuses on the licensing and distribution of Japanese films and media, has announced the beta launch of its own exclusive web channel where audiences will be able to stream a variety of the company’s films and content. More at newpeoplechannel.com.
Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.
Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.
Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.
Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.
Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.
Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.
Renowned producer Christine Vachon addresses cinema in the year 2011, gleaning wisdom from her extensive career producing films, from 1995's ‘Kids’ to 1999's ‘Boys Don’t Cry’ to the recent HBO mini-series 'Mildred Pierce.' More at fest.sffs.org.
Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.
Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.
Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.
Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.
Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.
Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.
Lynn Hershman Leeson's decades-in-the-making documentary about women artists taking on the establishment debuts at the festival Saturday, April 23, with a San Francisco Museum of Modern Art screening, and plays again Monday, April 25, at the Pacific Film Archive. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Norwegian countryside, student journalists, giant trolls: How could this Late Show screening go wrong? Especially with the director in person to help us through it? More at fest11.sffs.org.
Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.
Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.
Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.
‘Miss Representation,’ former San Francisco Mayoral First Lady Jennifer Siebel Newsom's documentary examining the impact of media on the self-image of female teenagers, screens Friday, with the filmmaker herself in town. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Susan Saladoff appears in person with 'Hot Coffee,' a documentary which uses the famous McDonald's spilled-coffee lawsuit as a jumping off point to talk about the decaying civil justice system in the U.S.; Saladoff joins Yoav Potash, Katie Galloway, Kelly Duane de la Vega and professor Bill Nichols for a discussion on the social justice documentary form on Monday, April 25. More on the film and salon at fest11.sffs.org.
Press release: The San Francisco Film Society announced today that Terence Stamp will be the recipient of the Peter J. Owens Award at the 54th San Francisco International Film Festival (April 21–May 5). The Owens Award, named for the longtime San Francisco benefactor of arts and charitable organizations and Film Society board member, honors an actor whose work exemplifies brilliance, independence and integrity. The award will be presented to Stamp at Film Society Awards Night, Thursday, April 28 at Bimbo’s 365 Club. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Press Release: The San Francisco Film Society announced the new SFFS Documentary Film Fund, which over the next three years will disburse a series of annual grants totaling $300,000 to support feature-length documentaries in postproduction. The SFFS Documentary Film Fund is created to support singular nonfiction film work that is distinguished by compelling stories, intriguing characters and an innovative visual approach. The first grant cycle application period opens June 17; the first winners will be announced September 30. More at sffs.org.
As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.
As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.
As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.
The 54th San Francisco International Film Festival opens with a film about fresh starts, in the form of a 75-year-old living life romantically, possibly for the first time, in Mike Mills' 'Beginners.' One can't go wrong with a cast featuring Ewan McGregor, Christopher Plummer and Melanie Laurent. Better: Mills and McGregor are present. A party follows at Terra Gallery. More at fest.sffs.org.
As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.
As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.
As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.
Social-justice filmmaking gets discussed in a Bill Nichols'-moderated salon during SFIFF.
Social-justice filmmaking gets discussed in a Bill Nichols'-moderated salon during SFIFF.
Social-justice filmmaking gets discussed in a Bill Nichols'-moderated salon during SFIFF.
In celebration of the upcoming Turner Classic Movies Film Festival in Hollywood, Castro Theatre participates in the one-night nationwide Road to Hollywood Tour with a free screening of ‘Elmer Gantry.’ Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz and Academy Award winner Shirley Jones are present. Tickets are acquired through tcm.com/roadtohollywood. More at castrotheatre.com.
Roxie Theater hosts Playback: ATA Film & Video Festival 2006-2010, a one-day event that showcases a selection of short films from the experimental media arts gallery. More at roxie.com.
Reports Peter Knegt: "Academy Award-nominated documentary filmmaker Tim Hetherington has been killed in Libya, it is being reported by Vanity Fair (where Hetherington worked as a contributing photographer)." More at indieWIRE.com.
A veteran producer talks about the art, craft and industry behind her work.
A veteran producer talks about the art, craft and industry behind her work.
A veteran producer talks about the art, craft and industry behind her work.
Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.
Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.
Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.
Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.
Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.
Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.
Pacific Film Archive's Patricio Guzmán series continues with ‘The Pinochet Case’ and ‘Chile, Obstinate Memory.’ Later this month, Guzman's latest, a poignant and provocative reflection called 'Nostalgia for the Light,' closes the collection and screens as part of the San Francisco International Film Festival, April 26 and 28. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu and fest11.sffs.org.
The 54th San Francisco International Film Festival (April 21 - May 5) announced that Clifton Collins Jr. will be honored at the fourth Midnight Awards, 10:30 pm, Saturday, April 23 at the W San Francisco. The Midnight Awards takes the form of a late night talk show, hosted by Beth Lisick, New York Times best-selling author and coorganizer of the Porchlight Storytelling Series, with live musical accompaniment by the Darren Johnston Trio. Lisick will interview Collins and his previously announced Midnight Award corecipient Zoe Saldana. Clips of their work will be shown prior to the presentation of the awards. More at fest11.sffs.org.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Director Aaron Schock speaks at Landmark’s Lumiere Theatre San Francisco and Landmark’s Shattuck Cinemas in Berkeley following select opening weekend showings of his new film, ‘Circo,’ which tells the story of a family’s financial and emotional battles as they struggle to successfully run a circus in Mexico. More at landmarktheatres.com.
Castro Theatre hosts a double feature of cop films set in San Francisco, beginning with Peter Yates’ 1968 ‘Bullitt,’ which features Steve McQueen, and Richard Rush’s 1974 ‘Freebie and the Bean,’ featuring James Caan and Alan Arkin. More at castrotheatre.com.
Keanu Reeves, James Caan and Vera Farmiga star in Malcolm Venvile’s ‘Henry’s Crime,’ which opens at Landmark’s Embarcadero Center Cinema in San Francisco, Landmark’s Shattuck Cinemas in Berkeley and other Bay Area theaters. The film was an official selection of the Toronto International Film Festival. More at landmarktheatres.com.
Roxie Theater presents ‘Some Days are Better Than Others,’ a debut feature-length film by Matt McCormick that explores the mutual struggles of hope shared amongst a group of eclectic characters. The film features Carrie Brownstein (Sleater-Kinney) as well as James Mercer (The Shins). More at roxie.com.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.
A grad student brings a rare screening of silent classic 'Braza Dormida' to the PFA, with live jazz accompaniment.
A grad student brings a rare screening of silent classic 'Braza Dormida' to the PFA, with live jazz accompaniment.
A grad student brings a rare screening of silent classic 'Braza Dormida' to the PFA, with live jazz accompaniment.
A grad student brings a rare screening of silent classic 'Braza Dormida' to the PFA, with live jazz accompaniment.
A grad student brings a rare screening of silent classic 'Braza Dormida' to the PFA, with live jazz accompaniment.
A grad student brings a rare screening of silent classic 'Braza Dormida' to the PFA, with live jazz accompaniment.
Local filmmakers reflect on the opportunities presented by screenings at the San Francisco International Film Festival.
Local filmmakers reflect on the opportunities presented by screenings at the San Francisco International Film Festival.
Local filmmakers reflect on the opportunities presented by screenings at the San Francisco International Film Festival.
Whether in the foreground or background of your narrative feature, pieces of art require copyright consideration.
Whether in the foreground or background of your narrative feature, pieces of art require copyright consideration.
Whether in the foreground or background of your narrative feature, pieces of art require copyright consideration.
Filmmaker Mimi Chakarova is at Sutardja Hall Auditorium, UC Berkeley, to present her documentary, ‘The Price of Sex,’ which is an award-winning investigation into sex trafficking throughout Europe and the Middle East. More at priceofsex.org.
Whether in the foreground or background of your narrative feature, pieces of art require copyright consideration.
Whether in the foreground or background of your narrative feature, pieces of art require copyright consideration.
Whether in the foreground or background of your narrative feature, pieces of art require copyright consideration.
Mimi Chakarova gains a new perspective on journalism as well as international crime in investigating 'The Price of Sex.'
Mimi Chakarova gains a new perspective on journalism as well as international crime in investigating 'The Price of Sex.'
Mimi Chakarova gains a new perspective on journalism as well as international crime in investigating 'The Price of Sex.'
Press release: Current TV is launching a new pro-social program, called 'The Current Cause,' which invites both amateur and professional filmmakers to create promotional spots focusing on pro-social themes and organizations. The program focuses on a different theme every quarter, beginning with a sustainability-themed "Earth Fights Back" initiative to commemorate Earth Day 2011. More at current.com/cause.
A South Korean gem, Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Poetry’ inspires.
A South Korean gem, Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Poetry’ inspires.
A South Korean gem, Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Poetry’ inspires.
Award-winning Bay Area director Les Blank introduces his 1969 short film, ‘The Blues Accordin’ to Lightnin’ Hopkins,’ and his 1979 project, ‘Always for Pleasure,’ which play at Red Vic Movie House. Viewers receive rice and beans made with Les’ special recipe. More at redvicmoviehouse.com.
Yerba Buena Center for the Arts hosts and dGenerate Films and Fandor present ‘Fearless: Independent Chinese Documentaries,’ which features six independent Chinese political docs; continuing this week with 'Tape' (April 7), 'Ghost Town' (April 10) and '1428' (pictured, April 14). More at ybca.org.
Mission Cultural Center presents Catherine Murphy’s ‘Maestra,’ a 30-minute documentary that follows female literacy workers in Cuba. Murphy and former literacy campaign teacher Norma Guillard participate in a Q&A with film critic B. Ruby Rich following the film. More at missionculturalcenter.org.
The 10th Annual Tiburon International Film Festival begins with Tomas Barina’s ‘Novel for Men,’ which will be making its International Premiere at the Tiburon Playhouse Theater. Over 140 films from 55 countries play over 11 days. More at tiburonfilmfestival.com.
Press release: The San Francisco Film Society announced today that Oliver Stone will be the recipient of the Founder’s Directing Award at the 54th San Francisco International Film Festival (April 21–May 5). The FDA will be presented to Stone at Film Society Awards Night, Thursday, April 28 at Bimbo’s 365 Club. The Film Society’s Youth Education program will be the beneficiary of the fundraiser honoring Stone. The soon-to-be-announced recipient of the Peter J. Owens Award for excellence in acting and Frank Pierson, recipient of the Kanbar Award for excellence in screenwriting will also be honored. More at sffs.org.
A South Korean gem, Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Poetry’ inspires.
A South Korean gem, Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Poetry’ inspires.
A South Korean gem, Lee Chang-dong’s ‘Poetry’ inspires.
Jennifer Juelich uses California carnivals as atmosphere for her DIY drama.
Jennifer Juelich uses California carnivals as atmosphere for her DIY drama.
Jennifer Juelich uses California carnivals as atmosphere for her DIY drama.
The 7th Annual San Francisco Women’s Film Festival opens with ‘Grace, Milly, Lucy… Child Soldiers’ and runs five days, with shows and events at the Roxie Theater, Ninth Street Independent Film Center and Mission Workshop. More at roxie.com and womensfilminstitute.com.
Hester Schell’s ‘Casting Revealed’ helps filmmakers hire quality actors.
Hester Schell’s ‘Casting Revealed’ helps filmmakers hire quality actors.
Hester Schell’s ‘Casting Revealed’ helps filmmakers hire quality actors.
Hester Schell’s ‘Casting Revealed’ helps filmmakers hire quality actors.
Hester Schell’s ‘Casting Revealed’ helps filmmakers hire quality actors.
Hester Schell’s ‘Casting Revealed’ helps filmmakers hire quality actors.
Tiffany Shlain keynotes a discussion of education and opportunity, while panelists Mark Decena, Rob Epstein, Barry Jenkins, Lexi Leban and Jenni Olson share their experiences and stories of how they’ve sustained their careers over time. It begins at 7:30 pm at the Lab. More at sffs.org.
A collection of Dave Kehr's analytical, entertaining pieces from 30-plus years ago offers critical enlightenment for a short-form era.
A collection of Dave Kehr's analytical, entertaining pieces from 30-plus years ago offers critical enlightenment for a short-form era.
A collection of Dave Kehr's analytical, entertaining pieces from 30-plus years ago offers critical enlightenment for a short-form era.
‘Salvador Allende,’ the first feature in the month-long series ‘Afterimage: The Films of Patricio Guzman,’ which showcases a variety of Guzman’s work, plays at Pacific Film Archive. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
IndieWIRE reports: "With the sheer number of arts-related events in San Francisco, one might mistake the city as one of America’s largest metropolises, but in fact it’s California’s fourth largest city. San Francisco has however had a long tradition of embracing arts on the cusp, reflecting its vibrant and diverse citizens." More at indieWIRE.com.
Ozon's Deneuve vehicle, filled with comedy and politics, travels well.
Ozon's Deneuve vehicle, filled with comedy and politics, travels well.
Ozon's Deneuve vehicle, filled with comedy and politics, travels well.
Ozon's Deneuve vehicle, filled with comedy and politics, travels well.
Ozon's Deneuve vehicle, filled with comedy and politics, travels well.
Ozon's Deneuve vehicle, filled with comedy and politics, travels well.
Behind the Scenes: Art director Patricia Woodbridge introduces ‘I Am Legend’ at Pacific Film Archive with a formal discussion of her work on that film and others on March 31. SFFS hosts Woodbridge at Ninth Street Independent Film Center for a Master Class on April 2, and then she returns to PFA to informally present ‘Shutter Island,’ on April 3. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu and sffs.org.
Filmmakers Ray Telles and Kenn Rabin are in person at the Smith Rafael Film Center to present their documentary, ‘The Storm That Swept Mexico,’ which illustrates the story of the Mexican Revolution of 1910 and explores the subsequent changes in relationship dynamics between Mexico, the United States and Europe. More at cafilm.org.
SFMOMA's Eadweard Muybridge exhibit is essential viewing for Bay Area film lovers. More than 150 years after Eadweard Muybridge set up shop on Montgomery Street, San Francisco Museum Modern Art is featuring a splendid retrospective of the photographer’s work just a few blocks away. A tireless self-promoter with chutzpah enough to adapt “Helios” as a nom de plume early in his career (this after already having left “Muggeridge” behind in England), Muybridge would surely have been pleased by this showcase. From A Trip Down Market Street
SFMOMA's Eadweard Muybridge exhibit is essential viewing for Bay Area film lovers. More than 150 years after Eadweard Muybridge set up shop on Montgomery Street, San Francisco Museum Modern Art is featuring a splendid retrospective of the photographer’s work just a few blocks away. A tireless self-promoter with chutzpah enough to adapt “Helios” as a nom de plume early in his career (this after already having left “Muggeridge” behind in England), Muybridge would surely have been pleased by this showcase. From A Trip Down Market Street
Director Cassie Jaye and producer Nena Jaye are in person for a discussion following their documentary, ‘Daddy I Do,’ which explores the need to provide youth and young adults with sexual education. More at cafilm.org.
SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.
SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.
SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.
SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.
SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.
SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.
Todd Haynes talks melodrama, movies, TV, the Great Depression and personal motivation.
Todd Haynes talks melodrama, movies, TV, the Great Depression and personal motivation.
Todd Haynes talks melodrama, movies, TV, the Great Depression and personal motivation.
New People at Viz Cinema hosts three showings of ‘Hula Girls,’ a 2006 film based in the recently devastated Fukushima, Japan. Showings are free, but donations of $10, which will go directly to Japanese earthquake relief funds, are requested. More at newpeopleworld.com.
Lisandro Alonso’s 2001 ‘La Libertad’ is the first film in Pacific Film Archive’s First Person Rural: The New Nonfiction series, which presents works that utilize documentary filmmaking techniques in fictional storytelling. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Rosenblatt’s meditative essay on the difficult subject of suicide finds its way to HBO. Narrative films may occasionally conjure the shock of a suicide—last year’s The Father of My Children is a fine example—but it’s the nature of character dramas to keep pace with the living rather than meditate in the shadow of loss. In his most recent lyrical essay-film, The Darkness of Day, local filmmaker Jay Rosenblatt creates such a meditative space, intertwining different stories and perspectives of suicide: near and far, first-person and third, male and female, young and old, anonymous and notable. Rosenblatt cues the multiple narratives to a poetic stream of found...
Rosenblatt’s meditative essay on the difficult subject of suicide finds its way to HBO. Narrative films may occasionally conjure the shock of a suicide—last year’s The Father of My Children is a fine example—but it’s the nature of character dramas to keep pace with the living rather than meditate in the shadow of loss. In his most recent lyrical essay-film, The Darkness of Day, local filmmaker Jay Rosenblatt creates such a meditative space, intertwining different stories and perspectives of suicide: near and far, first-person and third, male and female, young and old, anonymous and notable. Rosenblatt cues the multiple narratives to a poetic stream of found...
Created in 2007 by Eric Slatkin and Carlton Evans to celebrate possibilities of media we might consider "throwaway" (devices like cell phones and pocket cameras), the Disposable Film Festival has grown into a popular one-day event and year-round traveling showcase. This year, it debuts at the Castro Theatre. More at castrotheatre.com.
Screenwriter Oscar Torres appears in person at Mission Cultural Center to talk following his award winning film ‘Voces Inocentes,’ based on Torres’ real-life tale of growing up and avoiding mandatory army recruitment in San Salvador. More at missionculturalcenter.org.
Ron Merk sends a San Francisco-set series into the ring.
Ron Merk sends a San Francisco-set series into the ring.
Ron Merk sends a San Francisco-set series into the ring.
The Media that Matters Conference showcased innovative formats and powerful storytelling.
The Media that Matters Conference showcased innovative formats and powerful storytelling.
The Media that Matters Conference showcased innovative formats and powerful storytelling.
New technology and futuristic themes featured prominently at South by Southwest this year.
New technology and futuristic themes featured prominently at South by Southwest this year.
New technology and futuristic themes featured prominently at South by Southwest this year.
Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy’ is a puzzling provocation that gets better with multiple viewings.
Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy’ is a puzzling provocation that gets better with multiple viewings.
Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy’ is a puzzling provocation that gets better with multiple viewings.
Xavier Dolan’s ‘Heartbeats,’ the 2010 Winner of Un Certain Regard Youth Prize at Cannes International Film Festival, opens at Landmark Theatres in San Francisco and Landmark’s Shattuck Cinemas. The film follows two best friends and their attempt to attain the affection of a charming man they’ve just met. More at landmarktheatres.com.
Abbas Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy,’ featuring Juliette Binoche, opens at Landmark's Clay and Shattuck as well as the Smith Rafael Film Center. The films tells the story of a man and woman who begin pretending they’re romantically involved and subsequently experience the dynamics of being in a couple. More at landmarktheatres.com and cafilm.org.
Ry Russo-Young’s 2009 Gotham Independent Film Award winner and Sundance Film Festival Selection, ‘You Won’t Miss Me,’ plays for one week at Roxie Theater. The film features Stella Schnabel, who plays a 23 year-old just released from a psychiatric hospital. More at roxie.com.
Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy’ is a puzzling provocation that gets better with multiple viewings.
Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy’ is a puzzling provocation that gets better with multiple viewings.
Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy’ is a puzzling provocation that gets better with multiple viewings.
YBCA rallies behind Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof with its ‘Iran Beyond Censorship’ series.
YBCA rallies behind Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof with its ‘Iran Beyond Censorship’ series.
YBCA rallies behind Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof with its ‘Iran Beyond Censorship’ series.
YBCA rallies behind Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof with its ‘Iran Beyond Censorship’ series.
YBCA rallies behind Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof with its ‘Iran Beyond Censorship’ series.
YBCA rallies behind Jafar Panahi and Mohammad Rasoulof with its ‘Iran Beyond Censorship’ series.
Long story short: A filmmaker finds the right length for his South American health doc.
Long story short: A filmmaker finds the right length for his South American health doc.
Long story short: A filmmaker finds the right length for his South American health doc.
A new crop of filmmakers are building audiences by showing nonfiction doesn’t have to be depressing to reveal hard truths.
A new crop of filmmakers are building audiences by showing nonfiction doesn’t have to be depressing to reveal hard truths.
A new crop of filmmakers are building audiences by showing nonfiction doesn’t have to be depressing to reveal hard truths.
“At times William S. Burroughs seemed less the author of fiction than a creation of it,” writes Dennis Harvey in SF360; director Yony Leyser offers what Harvey calls a "fascinating, impressionistic" treatment of the subject in ‘William S. Burroughs: A Man Within.’ Leyser and other special guests offer a Q&A following the showing of their film, Tuesday, March 15. More at roxie.com.
'Surrogate Valentine's' Goh Nakamura offers his fans some sugar as his starring role closes SFIAAFF 2011.
'Surrogate Valentine's' Goh Nakamura offers his fans some sugar as his starring role closes SFIAAFF 2011.
'Surrogate Valentine's' Goh Nakamura offers his fans some sugar as his starring role closes SFIAAFF 2011.
'Surrogate Valentine's' Goh Nakamura offers his fans some sugar as his starring role closes SFIAAFF 2011.
'Surrogate Valentine's' Goh Nakamura offers his fans some sugar as his starring role closes SFIAAFF 2011.
'Surrogate Valentine's' Goh Nakamura offers his fans some sugar as his starring role closes SFIAAFF 2011.
Oscar-winning visual effects supervisor Craig Barron and Oscar-winning sound designer Ben Burtt reveal the special effects used in 1939s ‘Tarzan Finds a Son!’ and present live audio demonstrations. The event takes place at Smith Rafael Film Center and is presented by Science and Technology Council of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. More at cafilm.org.
Screen Circus plays at Red Vic Movie House, offering indie short films by local filmmakers. More at redvicmoviehouse.com.
San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival begins March 10 and runs for 11 days, celebrating Opening Night at the Castro Theatre with Andy De Emmony’s 2009 ‘West Is West,’ the sequel to the successful 1999 ‘East Is East.’ About 120 films will play at a variety of venues around San Francisco, Berkeley and San Jose. More at festival.asianamericanmedia.org.
At nearly 30, SF Int’l Asian American Film Festival fulfills a multifacted programming mission. The 29th edition of the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival stretches across the Bay Area, from San Francisco to Berkeley to San Jose March 10–20, bringing “Stories to Light” as the Center for Asian American Media's new tagline says. Indeed, both the stories and their potential audiences would be left in the dark without the solid efforts of new festival steward Misashi Niwano and Christine Kwon (festival director and managing director, respectively). In a city privileged with a vast...
At nearly 30, SF Int’l Asian American Film Festival fulfills a multifacted programming mission. The 29th edition of the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival stretches across the Bay Area, from San Francisco to Berkeley to San Jose March 10–20, bringing “Stories to Light” as the Center for Asian American Media's new tagline says. Indeed, both the stories and their potential audiences would be left in the dark without the solid efforts of new festival steward Misashi Niwano and Christine Kwon (festival director and managing director, respectively). In a city privileged with a vast...
Pacific Film Archive hosts ‘Film and Video Makers at Cal,’ which offers an array of short narratives, documentaries and music videos by UC Berkeley student filmmakers. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Hollywood Reporter: ""What the film industry desperately needs is a merger of social networks and content," says Ted Hope, the celebrated producer of American Splendor and dozens of indie hits at Sundance and elsewhere. That's why he just joined former Facebook chief privacy officer Chris Kelly on the board of Fandor, the indie film streaming site built by Dan Aronson and Jonathan Marlow, a veteran of Amazon and GreenCine. After several months in beta (trial-run mode), Fandor made its full-fledged debut Wednesday," writes Tim Appelo. More at hollywoodreporter.com.
At nearly 30, SF Int’l Asian American Film Festival fulfills a multifacted programming mission. The 29th edition of the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival stretches across the Bay Area, from San Francisco to Berkeley to San Jose March 10–20, bringing “Stories to Light” as the Center for Asian American Media's new tagline says. Indeed, both the stories and their potential audiences would be left in the dark without the solid efforts of new festival steward Misashi Niwano and Christine Kwon (festival director and managing director, respectively). In a city privileged with a vast...
At nearly 30, SF Int’l Asian American Film Festival fulfills a multifacted programming mission. The 29th edition of the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival stretches across the Bay Area, from San Francisco to Berkeley to San Jose March 10–20, bringing “Stories to Light” as the Center for Asian American Media's new tagline says. Indeed, both the stories and their potential audiences would be left in the dark without the solid efforts of new festival steward Misashi Niwano and Christine Kwon (festival director and managing director, respectively). In a city privileged with a vast...
Jason Wolos builds a drama about family and food with a few key ingredients.
Jason Wolos builds a drama about family and food with a few key ingredients.
Jason Wolos builds a drama about family and food with a few key ingredients.
Pacific Film Archive offers the latest in their Alternative Visions series with Images of Nature, or The Nature of the Image: Canadian Artists at Work, which explores the techniques and strategies utilized by four decades of Canadian short films as they showcase images of nature and Canadian landscapes. More at bampfa.berkeley.edu.
Jason Wolos builds a drama about family and food with a few key ingredients.
Jason Wolos builds a drama about family and food with a few key ingredients.
Jason Wolos builds a drama about family and food with a few key ingredients.
Breaking down the common licensing terms.
Breaking down the common licensing terms.
Breaking down the common licensing terms.
Breaking down the common licensing terms.
Breaking down the common licensing terms.
Breaking down the common licensing terms.
Masashi Niwano, the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival's new director, speaks about bringing new worlds to this world cinema event.
Masashi Niwano, the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival's new director, speaks about bringing new worlds to this world cinema event.
Masashi Niwano, the San Francisco International Asian American Film Festival's new director, speaks about bringing new worlds to this world cinema event.
The Balboa Theatre celebrates its 81st year with a rare early film of Rudolph Valentino, ‘Moran of the Lady Letty,’ lensed here in San Francisco and Tiburon. The evening includes short-subject films, live accompaniment and performance, your own take on Jazz Age attire, and, of course, birthday cake. More at balboamovies.com.