Opportunities: International Film Festival Summit

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.

Welcome to SF360

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.

Welcome to SF360

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.

Essential SF: Nov. 6

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: Nov. 6

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: Nov. 6

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: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Susan Gerhard

Susan Gerhard talks copy, critics and the 'there' we have here.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Karen Larsen

Universally warm sentiment is attached to the Bay Area's hardest working indie/art film publicist.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Essential SF: Canyon Cinema

For 50 years, Canyon Cinema has provided crucial support for a fertile avant-garde film scene.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

Under the Spell of French Cinema Now

Love permeates SFFS's francophone film series.

NY/SF International Children's Film Festival

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.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

Children’s Film Festival Moves in and out of Shadows

Without marketing tie-ins, plastic toys or corn-syrup confections, a children’s film festival brings energy to the screen.

SF Film Society Names Bingham Ray Executive Director

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.

'The Sleeping Beauty'

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.

Taiwan Film Days

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.

Taiwan Film Days

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.

Unbound by Genre, Taiwan's Films Travel Unique Paths

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 ...

Unbound by Genre, Taiwan's Films Travel Unique Paths

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 ...

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

Kelly, Pickert Interpret ‘Cherokee’ Words

A film on Cherokee chief Wilma Mankiller bucks biopic formula and concentrates on a pivotal moment in the leader's life.

An Evening with Susan Orlean & Rin Tin Tin

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.

An Evening with Susan Orlean & Rin Tin Tin

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.

'Passione'

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.

'Passione'

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.

'Passione'

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.

Film in the Fog: 'Dark Passage'

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.

Film in the Fog: 'Dark Passage'

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.

Turturro Makes a Case for 'Passione'

John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.

Turturro Makes a Case for 'Passione'

John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.

Turturro Makes a Case for 'Passione'

John Turturro shares his passion for the Neapolitan songbook.

'Shaolin'

Fresh from screening his wacky 'City Under Seige' in the SFFS Hong Kong Cinema program, the Cinema gives a short run to mainstay Benny Chan's more "serious" 2011 blockbuster, 'Shaolin,' with HK superstars Andy Lau, Jackie Chan and Nicholas Tse. More info at sffs.org.

'Shaolin'

Fresh from screening his wacky 'City Under Seige' in the SFFS Hong Kong Cinema program, the Cinema gives a short run to mainstay Benny Chan's more "serious" 2011 blockbuster, 'Shaolin,' with HK superstars Andy Lau, Jackie Chan and Nicholas Tse. More info at sffs.org.

SFFS Film Arts Forum

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 Film Arts Forum

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.

Hong Kong Cinema

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.

Hong Kong Cinema

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.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SFFS's Hong Kong Cinema Series Brings Fan Fare to New Screen

Audience-engaging stories in a variety of genres highlight SFFS's inaugural Hong Kong Cinema weekend.

SF Film Society | New People Cinema Opening

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.

SFFS Announces Winners of Documentary Film Fund Awards

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.

'Aurora'

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.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

Iranian Teenage Love Sparks ‘Circumstance’

Director, producer speak of challenges, inspirations behind a story of the urban Iranian underground.

'Puzzle'

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.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

‘Puzzle’ Pieces Together a Life

Maria Onetto quietly dazzles in Argentine film about a midlife jigsaw puzzler.

'Film Socialisme'

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.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Jean-Luc Godard Sets Course for Adventure

The first feature to play SFFS | New People Cinema, Godard's ‘Film Socialisme’ is both poetic rumination and urgent intervention.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

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.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

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.

Graham Leggat: Filmmakers, Writers, Fans Remember

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.

Graham Leggat and a Film Society Transformed

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 and a Film Society Transformed

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 and a Film Society Transformed

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, 1960-2011

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, 1960-2011

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, 1960-2011

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.

SFFS Announces Winners of Spring 2011 SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants

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.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Teens Tackle Production at SFFS Young Filmmakers Camp

The second year of the Film Society's movie-making summer camp puts youth on location.

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

Miranda July Throws Cautionary Tale to the Wind with ‘The Future’

The filmmaker talks about time, life, storytelling and her new film, ‘The Future.’

The Animator's Art with John Musker

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.

Marius Watz: Automatic Writing

SFFS presents the work of pioneering software artist Marius Watz, who uses digital processes and authored algorithms to “automatically” produce numerous types of media including video, still imagery and sculpture through semi-autonomous software systems, as part of its KinoTek series. Look for sci-fi writer/theorist Bruce Sterling's essay on Watz in Thursday's SF360.org. Events: An exhibition in Super Frog Gallery at New People opens July 22; Artist Talk, July 26; Master Class, July 27. More at sffs.org.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Graham Leggat Steps Down as Executive Director of San Francisco Film Society

Film Society’s leader for more than five years resigns due to health issues.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

Hong Takes New Tack with 'Oki's Movie'

Hong Sang-soo's latest leaves us with an awkward ambivalence that resonates long after the film is finished.

SF Film Society Signs Lease on New Theatrical Home

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...

SF Film Society Signs Lease on New Theatrical Home

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...

SF Film Society Signs Lease on New Theatrical Home

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...

Park Jung-bum Offers Notes on his Unique POV

The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.

Park Jung-bum Offers Notes on his Unique POV

The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.

Park Jung-bum Offers Notes on his Unique POV

The director of South Korean film 'The Journals of Musan,' a prize winner at SFIFF54, speaks about bringing cinematic light to social darkness.

SFIFF54 Golden Gate Award Winners Announced

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...

SFIFF54 Golden Gate Award Winners Announced

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...

SFIFF54 Closing Night

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.

SFIFF Brings in Burlesque as Closer

Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’

SFIFF Brings in Burlesque as Closer

Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’

SFIFF Brings in Burlesque as Closer

Cabaret New Burlesque gets the French art-house treatment with ‘On Tour.’

Frank Pierson, 'These Amazing Shadows' Offer Inspiration

Screenwriter Frank Pierson talks production at SFIFF54; Bay Area-made 'These Amazing Shadows' screens after the Festival closes.

Frank Pierson, 'These Amazing Shadows' Offer Inspiration

Screenwriter Frank Pierson talks production at SFIFF54; Bay Area-made 'These Amazing Shadows' screens after the Festival closes.

Frank Pierson, 'These Amazing Shadows' Offer Inspiration

Screenwriter Frank Pierson talks production at SFIFF54; Bay Area-made 'These Amazing Shadows' screens after the Festival closes.

SFIFF: ‘American Teacher’/20 Years of Schools at the Festival

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.

SFIFF: ‘Letters from the Big Man’

‘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.

SFIFF: ‘The Joy’

A 16-year-old teenager overcomes the harsh realities of life in Rio de Janeiro by using her imagination in ‘The Joy,’ which plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. Director Felipe Bragança in attendance. More at fest11.sffs.org.

Unrestrained at SFIFF54, Barney Offers Live Insight

Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.

Unrestrained at SFIFF54, Barney Offers Live Insight

Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.

Unrestrained at SFIFF54, Barney Offers Live Insight

Matthew Barney talks art, sports and spectacle at the Sundance Kabuki.

SFIFF: ‘Circumstance’

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.

SFIFF: ‘The Salesman’

‘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.

SFIFF54 Embraces Barney's Unique POV

In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.

SFIFF54 Embraces Barney's Unique POV

In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.

SFIFF54 Embraces Barney's Unique POV

In a quarter century of filmmaking feats, persistence and vision are defining qualities for Matthew Barney.

SFIFF Centerpiece: ‘Terri’

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.

SFIFF: ‘The Selling’

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.

Film Society Awards Night Shines Light on ’70s, City

Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.

Film Society Awards Night Shines Light on ’70s, City

Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.

Film Society Awards Night Shines Light on ’70s, City

Beginnings, endings and the dazzling cinema in between honored in SFFS's annual awards show.

Stone not Cold in Castro Conversation

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.

Stone not Cold in Castro Conversation

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.

Stone not Cold in Castro Conversation

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.

SFIFF: ‘Asleep In The Sun’

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.

Bay Area Doc-makers of SFIFF54 Map Future

The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.

Bay Area Doc-makers of SFIFF54 Map Future

The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.

Bay Area Doc-makers of SFIFF54 Map Future

The region's nonfiction filmmakers consider next steps after their SFIFF debuts.

SFIFF: ‘She Monkeys’

‘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.

SFIFF: ‘Crime After Crime’

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.

SFIFF: ‘Better This World’

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.

Terence Stamp Honored with Owens Award

Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.

Terence Stamp Honored with Owens Award

Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.

Terence Stamp Honored with Owens Award

Terence Stamp has treated acting not as a job, but as a restless quest for new frontiers.

SFIFF Joins Festival Scope

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.

Explosive Actors, Anecdotes Light Up SFIFF54’s Midnight Awards

Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.

Explosive Actors, Anecdotes Light Up SFIFF54’s Midnight Awards

Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.

Explosive Actors, Anecdotes Light Up SFIFF54’s Midnight Awards

Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., share candid thoughts with a raucous audience.

SFIFF State of Cinema: Christine Vachon

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.

SFIFF54's 'Beginners' Brings Surprises

Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.

SFIFF54's 'Beginners' Brings Surprises

Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.

SFIFF54's 'Beginners' Brings Surprises

Mike Mills and Ewan McGregor lit up the Castro on San Francisco International's opening night.

SFIFF's Midnight Awards

The San Francisco International's Midnight Awards at the W hotel honor Zoe Saldana and Clifton Collins, Jr., with a spirited talk-show style discussion featuring the inimitable Beth Lisick, actress, author and Porchlight Storytelling Series co-host. More at fest.sffs.org.

SFIFF: '!Women art Revolution'

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.

SFIFF: 'The Troll Hunter'

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.

SFIFF: ‘Miss Representation’

‘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.

SFIFF: 'Hot Coffee'

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.

Terence Stamp to Receive Peter J. Owens Award at 54th San Francisco International Film Festival

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.

San Francisco Film Society Announces New $300,000 Documentary Film Fund

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.

SFIFF54 Finds Life Among the Ruins

As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.

SFIFF54 Finds Life Among the Ruins

As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.

SFIFF54 Finds Life Among the Ruins

As the San Francisco International Film Festival opens, key films consider the value of place.

San Francisco International Opens

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.

Looking for the Moral with Bill Nichols

Social-justice filmmaking gets discussed in a Bill Nichols'-moderated salon during SFIFF.

Looking for the Moral with Bill Nichols

Social-justice filmmaking gets discussed in a Bill Nichols'-moderated salon during SFIFF.

Looking for the Moral with Bill Nichols

Social-justice filmmaking gets discussed in a Bill Nichols'-moderated salon during SFIFF.

Production Values: Debbie Brubaker

A veteran producer talks about the art, craft and industry behind her work.

Production Values: Debbie Brubaker

A veteran producer talks about the art, craft and industry behind her work.

Production Values: Debbie Brubaker

A veteran producer talks about the art, craft and industry behind her work.

The Unorthodox Documentary: Lourdes Portillo

SFFS Education and Lourdes Portillo, director/producer of ‘The Mothers of Plaza de Mayo’ and ‘The Devil Never Sleeps,’ present a Master Class titled ‘The Unorthodox Documentary,’ in which Portillo shares her techniques and reviews students proposals. More at sffs.org.

On Producing Killer Films

Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.

On Producing Killer Films

Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.

On Producing Killer Films

Christine Vachon examines her varied indie successes while offering notes on the world of change engulfing cinema.

Afterimage: The Films of Patricio Guzmán

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.

SFIFF Presents Midnight Award to Clifton Collins, Jr., Zoe Saldana

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.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Swimming in the Deep End of San Francisco International Film Festival

Films in the 54th SFIFF immerse viewers in distant times, unique places.

Film Globally, Screen Locally

Local filmmakers reflect on the opportunities presented by screenings at the San Francisco International Film Festival.

Film Globally, Screen Locally

Local filmmakers reflect on the opportunities presented by screenings at the San Francisco International Film Festival.

Film Globally, Screen Locally

Local filmmakers reflect on the opportunities presented by screenings at the San Francisco International Film Festival.

54th San Francisco International Film Festival Will Present Founder’s Directing Award to Oliver Stone

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.

SFFS Film Arts Forum: Beyond Film School

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.

Patricia Woodbridge on Art Direction

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.

SFFS Announces 2011 SF International Film Festival Titles, Events

SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.

SFFS Announces 2011 SF International Film Festival Titles, Events

SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.

SFFS Announces 2011 SF International Film Festival Titles, Events

SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.

SFFS Announces 2011 SF International Film Festival Titles, Events

SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.

SFFS Announces 2011 SF International Film Festival Titles, Events

SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.

SFFS Announces 2011 SF International Film Festival Titles, Events

SF International's 54th wide-ranging program is announced.

SFFS Screen: ‘Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives’

Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s much anticipated ‘Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives,' a dramatic feature that tells the story of a dying man who visits the incarnations of his past lives in his final days, remains at the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas for a few days. More at sffs.org.

SFFS Screen: ‘Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives’

Apichatpong Weerasethakul’s much anticipated ‘Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives,' a dramatic feature that tells the story of a dying man who visits the incarnations of his past lives in his final days, remains at the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas for a few days. More at sffs.org.

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

'Boonmee's' Magic Lights Up SFFS Screen

Apichatpong Weerasethakul returns to the jungle, and full-on magic realism, with 'Uncle Boonmee.'

Ido Haar in Person for Q&A following 'Melting Siberia'

Ido Haar continues his two-week residency with the San Francisco Film Society; he appears in person for a Q&A following the screening of ‘Melting Siberia,’ which will play at New People. A reception with Haar will follow at Viz Cinema Café. More at sffs.org.

Ido Haar Seeks Justice, Searches Soul

SFFS Artist in Residence speaks on cities, Siberia, family and life in the Middle East.

Ido Haar Seeks Justice, Searches Soul

SFFS Artist in Residence speaks on cities, Siberia, family and life in the Middle East.

Ido Haar Seeks Justice, Searches Soul

SFFS Artist in Residence speaks on cities, Siberia, family and life in the Middle East.

SFFS Screen: 'How I Ended This Summer'

SFFS Screen presents Alexei Popogrebsky’s, ‘How I Ended This Summer,’ a psychological drama about two men's relationship over a summer of working at a meteorological station in the Arctic Circle. The film plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. More at sffs.org.

Arctic 'Summer' Story Chills Screen

SFFS Screen's 'How I Ended This Summer' is a taut drama set in the Arctic.

Arctic 'Summer' Story Chills Screen

SFFS Screen's 'How I Ended This Summer' is a taut drama set in the Arctic.

SFFS KinoTek: Laurel Nakadate Double Feature

As part of Laurel Nakadate: Fever Dreams, photographer and filmmaker Nakadate appears in person at the Roxie Theater for a Q&A following a double-feature of her transfixing, transforming feature-length films, including 2010's 'The Wolf Knife' and 2009's 'Stay the Same Never Change.' More, including info on Nakadate work on display in the Mission, at sffs.org.

Nakadate’s Fever Dreams Heat the Screen

Filmmaker/photographer Laurel Nakadate talks about acting, power and identity.

Nakadate’s Fever Dreams Heat the Screen

Filmmaker/photographer Laurel Nakadate talks about acting, power and identity.

Nakadate’s Fever Dreams Heat the Screen

Filmmaker/photographer Laurel Nakadate talks about acting, power and identity.

Mitchell Block Brings Oscar Attention to Vets

Producer and teacher Mitchell Block talks about the making of great films, including the Oscar-nominated 'Poster Girl.'

Mitchell Block Brings Oscar Attention to Vets

Producer and teacher Mitchell Block talks about the making of great films, including the Oscar-nominated 'Poster Girl.'

Mitchell Block Brings Oscar Attention to Vets

Producer and teacher Mitchell Block talks about the making of great films, including the Oscar-nominated 'Poster Girl.'

SFFS Screen: 'And Everything Is Going Fine'

Steven Soderbergh’s 2010 film pays biographical tribute to performer Spalding Gray, beloved for his monologues of the late 1970s and early ’80s and last seen on the Staten Island Ferry in 2004. ‘And Everything Is Going Fine’ plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. More at sffs.org.

'Come Undone' Disrupts Domesticity

Neither tragedy nor grand romance, 'Come Undone' captures an evocative everyday mess.

'Come Undone' Disrupts Domesticity

Neither tragedy nor grand romance, 'Come Undone' captures an evocative everyday mess.

SFFS Screen: 'Come Undone'

SFFS Screen offers ‘Come Undone,’ Silvio Soldini’s recent dramatic film featuring Alba Rohrwacher of ‘I Am Love.’ The film examines the reasons behind and subsequent emotional effects of a couple's extramarital affair. The film plays at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. More at sffs.org.

'Come Undone' Disrupts Domesticity

Neither tragedy nor grand romance, 'Come Undone' captures an evocative everyday mess.

'Come Undone' Disrupts Domesticity

Neither tragedy nor grand romance, 'Come Undone' captures an evocative everyday mess.

SFFS Screen Returns with New Suleiman

Elia Suleiman’s 'The Time That Remains' recalls his parents’ Nazareth.

SFFS Screen Returns with New Suleiman

Elia Suleiman’s 'The Time That Remains' recalls his parents’ Nazareth.

SFFS Screen Returns with New Suleiman

Elia Suleiman’s 'The Time That Remains' recalls his parents’ Nazareth.

SFFS Screen: 'The Time That Remains'

SFFS Screen returns to the Sundance Kabuki with a new one from Elia Suleiman, a story about the the lives and hardships of Palestinians who were branded "Israeli Arabs." It's a film that the Toronto International Film Festival calls a "fusion of the political and personal, the historical and hysterical." More at sffs.org.

SFFS Screen Returns with New Suleiman

Elia Suleiman’s 'The Time That Remains' recalls his parents’ Nazareth.

SFFS Screen Returns with New Suleiman

Elia Suleiman’s 'The Time That Remains' recalls his parents’ Nazareth.

SFFS Screen Returns with New Suleiman

Elia Suleiman’s 'The Time That Remains' recalls his parents’ Nazareth.

Herzog in Focus

The Roxie Theater and San Francisco Film Society present ‘Herzog In Focus,’ a class taught by Bill Nichols, which analyzes the work of German filmmaker Werner Herzog. More at roxie.com and sffs.org.

SF360 Live at Sundance: Strange and Charmed Visions

Sean Uyehara: "If you wanted, you could say that Calvin Lee Reeder channels the love child of Dario Argento and Maya Deren..."

SF360 Live at Sundance: Strange and Charmed Visions

Sean Uyehara: "If you wanted, you could say that Calvin Lee Reeder channels the love child of Dario Argento and Maya Deren..."

SF360 Live at Sundance: Strange and Charmed Visions

Sean Uyehara: "If you wanted, you could say that Calvin Lee Reeder channels the love child of Dario Argento and Maya Deren..."

SFFS Presents Fever Dreams: Laurel Nakadate

Press release: The San Francisco Film Society will present Fever Dreams: Laurel Nakadate, a multiplatform presentation of the work of American multimedia artist Laurel Nakadate, February 23–March 2. Fever Dreams kicks off KinoTek 2011–12, an eclectic series of programs dedicated to cross-platform and emergent media, supported by a two-year, $80,000 grant from the Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts. More at sffs.org.

De Oliveira's 'Angelica' Balming, Enlivening

'The Strange Case of Angelica' finds Manoel de Oliveira, at 102 years old, in fine form.

De Oliveira's 'Angelica' Balming, Enlivening

'The Strange Case of Angelica' finds Manoel de Oliveira, at 102 years old, in fine form.

De Oliveira's 'Angelica' Balming, Enlivening

'The Strange Case of Angelica' finds Manoel de Oliveira, at 102 years old, in fine form.

SFFS Announces Winner of Screenwriting Grant

Press release: The San Francisco Film Society announced today that Eric Escobar has been selected to receive this year's SFFS/Hearst Screenwriting Grant for the continuing development of his script, East County. The $15,000 grant is given to support the work of a mid-career American screenwriter. More at SFFS.

SFFS Special Presentation: Sir Arne’s Treasure with the Mountain Goats in Solo Performance

San Francisco Film Society presents the world premiere of John Darnielle’s score to Mauritz Stiller’s silent masterpiece ‘Sir Arne’s Treasure.’ The celebrated singer-songwriter plays live at the Castro Theatre to accompany the film. More at sffs.org.

SFFS Special Presentation: Sir Arne’s Treasure with the Mountain Goats in Solo Performance

San Francisco Film Society presents the world premiere of John Darnielle’s score to Mauritz Stiller’s silent masterpiece ‘Sir Arne’s Treasure.’ The celebrated singer-songwriter plays live at the Castro Theatre to accompany the film. More at sffs.org.

'Ghost Bird' Returns to Roost

The Ivory-Billed Woodpecker may have disappeared for good, but a film about its possible rebirth persists against all odds.

'Ghost Bird' Returns to Roost

The Ivory-Billed Woodpecker may have disappeared for good, but a film about its possible rebirth persists against all odds.

'Ghost Bird' Returns to Roost

The Ivory-Billed Woodpecker may have disappeared for good, but a film about its possible rebirth persists against all odds.

Stiller's 'Sir Arne's Treasure' Brought Back to Life, Musically

The Mountain Goats offer an original score for Mauritz Stiller's rambunctious adventure-turned tragedy/morality tale of 1919.

Stiller's 'Sir Arne's Treasure' Brought Back to Life, Musically

The Mountain Goats offer an original score for Mauritz Stiller's rambunctious adventure-turned tragedy/morality tale of 1919.

Stiller's 'Sir Arne's Treasure' Brought Back to Life, Musically

The Mountain Goats offer an original score for Mauritz Stiller's rambunctious adventure-turned tragedy/morality tale of 1919.

Essential SF: Anne McGuire

San Francisco has not quite been the same since it began experiencing the cinema/performance antics of an uncontainable Anne McGuire.

Essential SF: Anne McGuire

San Francisco has not quite been the same since it began experiencing the cinema/performance antics of an uncontainable Anne McGuire.

Essential SF: Anne McGuire

San Francisco has not quite been the same since it began experiencing the cinema/performance antics of an uncontainable Anne McGuire.

Essential SF: Anne McGuire

San Francisco has not quite been the same since it began experiencing the cinema/performance antics of an uncontainable Anne McGuire.

SFFS/KRF Announce Fall 2010 Grant Recipients

Press release: The San Francisco Film Society and the Kenneth Rainin Foundation today announced the five winners of the fourth round of SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants: Debbie Brubaker, Lynn Hershman Leeson, Christopher Mason Johnson, Mike Ott and Morgan Wise. The grants are given 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. More at sffs.org.

Malmberg Builds a Following with 'Marwencol'

A first-team non-fiction feature filmmaker hits it big with miniatures story.

Malmberg Builds a Following with 'Marwencol'

A first-team non-fiction feature filmmaker hits it big with miniatures story.

Malmberg Builds a Following with 'Marwencol'

A first-team non-fiction feature filmmaker hits it big with miniatures story.

New Italian Cinema

San Francisco Film Society celebrates Italy’s freshest film offerings in the New Italian Cinema series at Landmark’s Embarcadero Center Cinema. Films new and old from director Ferzan Ozpetek begin the weeklong festival, which focuses on a diverse group of work from some of Italy’s most gifted filmmakers, many appearing in person. Opening Night is Ozpetek’s most recent, ‘Loose Cannons,’ which precedes a party at Cigar Bar & Grill, 850 Montgomery Street. More at sffs.org.

New Italian Cinema

San Francisco Film Society’s New Italian Cinema series wraps up this week at Landmark’s Embarcadero Center Cinema. Upcoming films include Giuseppe Capatondi’s thriller ‘The Double Hour’ and Luis Prieto’s heartfelt drama, ‘I Am Glad You Are Here’ (pictured). The Closing Night film is Paolo Virzì’s ‘The First Beautiful Thing’ with a reception at Fior d’Italia, 2237 Mason Street. More at sffs.org.

Essential SF: Marlon Riggs

From 'Tongues Untied' to 'Black Is.....Black Ain't,' Marlon Riggs' art was a series of radical acts that were both overdue and ahead of their time. Two decades ago, in post-Reagan America, the arts were under fire—one lit by a very particular religious right match. Feeling the heat was the National Endowment for the Arts, a then 25-year-old institution already pretty pitifully funded by comparison with most other developed nations’ governmental arts support. But the small portion of NEA grants that helped avant-garde or otherwise edgy art—as opposed to, say, the local Gilbert & Sullivan society or annual craft fair—provided plenty of opportunities...

Essential SF: Marlon Riggs

From 'Tongues Untied' to 'Black Is.....Black Ain't,' Marlon Riggs' art was a series of radical acts that were both overdue and ahead of their time. Two decades ago, in post-Reagan America, the arts were under fire—one lit by a very particular religious right match. Feeling the heat was the National Endowment for the Arts, a then 25-year-old institution already pretty pitifully funded by comparison with most other developed nations’ governmental arts support. But the small portion of NEA grants that helped avant-garde or otherwise edgy art—as opposed to, say, the local Gilbert & Sullivan society or annual craft fair—provided plenty of opportunities...

New Italian Cinema Puts Focus on Ferzan Ozpetek

'When in Rome,' or outside it: NIC offers fresh voices, new locations.

New Italian Cinema Puts Focus on Ferzan Ozpetek

'When in Rome,' or outside it: NIC offers fresh voices, new locations.

New Italian Cinema Puts Focus on Ferzan Ozpetek

'When in Rome,' or outside it: NIC offers fresh voices, new locations.

New Italian Cinema Puts Focus on Ferzan Ozpetek

'When in Rome,' or outside it: NIC offers fresh voices, new locations.

New to SFIAF: Online Screening Room

SFIAF's Online Screening Room gives the festival's animation another dimension.

New to SFIAF: Online Screening Room

SFIAF's Online Screening Room gives the festival's animation another dimension.

New to SFIAF: Online Screening Room

SFIAF's Online Screening Room gives the festival's animation another dimension.

New to SFIAF: Online Screening Room

SFIAF's Online Screening Room gives the festival's animation another dimension.

New to SFIAF: Online Screening Room

SFIAF's Online Screening Room gives the festival's animation another dimension.

New to SFIAF: Online Screening Room

SFIAF's Online Screening Room gives the festival's animation another dimension.

Semiconductor's Binary Opposition

San Francisco International Animation Festival: Semiconductor's Ruth Jarman and Joseph Gerhardt talk about their work in music, movies and animation. What do you call a duo that considers itself a trio? Or videomakers who call themselves sculptors? Semiconductor has been making video and installation work for over ten years. They consist of Joseph Gerhardt, Ruth Jarman and a computer. They create animations and present live music and visual shows. Everything they do is slightly inside out. The computer is more or less an antagonist in their midst. They haven’t quite broken up the band yet, because the....

Semiconductor's Binary Opposition

San Francisco International Animation Festival: Semiconductor's Ruth Jarman and Joseph Gerhardt talk about their work in music, movies and animation. What do you call a duo that considers itself a trio? Or videomakers who call themselves sculptors? Semiconductor has been making video and installation work for over ten years. They consist of Joseph Gerhardt, Ruth Jarman and a computer. They create animations and present live music and visual shows. Everything they do is slightly inside out. The computer is more or less an antagonist in their midst. They haven’t quite broken up the band yet, because the....

San Francisco International Animation Festival

Animated stories from around the world gather at Landmark’s Embarcadero Center Cinema for the fifth SFIAF. Six wide-ranging shorts programs as well as features like Brent Green’s ‘Gravity Was Everywhere Back Then’ and Sunao Katabuchi’s ‘Mai Mai Miracle’ take the screen. Four diverse animators interpret folk rock band The Decemberists’ 2009 concept album in ‘Here Come the Waves: The Hazards of Love Visualized,’ which opens the festival. Opening Night party follows the screening at La Mar Cebichería Peruana at Pier One and One-Half on the Embarcadero. More at sffs.org.

San Francisco Film Society Announces Finalists for SFFS/Hearst Screenwriting Grant

Press release: The San Francisco Film Society announced today the finalists and honorable mention for the second SFFS/Hearst Screenwriting Grant. The grant of $15,000 will be awarded to a mid-career screenwriter who has been a practicing writer for at least five years and who has previously written a minimum of one feature screenplay. Finalists are Topaz Adizes, Eric Escobar, Brent Hoff, Roja Gashtili, Maryam Keshavarz, Beverly Kopf and Bobbi Birleffi, Paul Lobo Portuges, David Munro, Jennifer Phang and Dominac Mah. Honorable mention went to Richard Strasser. More at sffs.org.

Roman Polanski Shorts with Live Music by Sza/Za

Taking the legendary director of 'Rosemary's Baby,' 'Chinatown' and 'The Pianist' out of headlines and back to his filmmaking and geographic roots, this program pairs a live performance by Warsaw electro-acoustic duo Sza/Za with early Polanski shorts at Letterman Digital Arts Center’s Premier Theater. More at sffs.org.

‘Carlos’ continues at Kabuki

Olivier Assayas’s five-and-a-half hour masterpiece about Venezuelan terrorist Carlos the Jackal continues on SFFS Screen at the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. A 15-minute intermission divides the epic. More at sffs.org.

SFFS Screen: 'Carlos'

Olivier Assayas's five-and-a-half hour epic (with a 15-minute intermission) about Venezuelan terrorist Carlos The Jackal is being regarded as the director’s masterpiece. ‘Carlos’ plays for a week at Sundance Kabuki Cinemas. More at sffs.org.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF: Les Blank

Eat, dance, love: Les Blank brings nonfiction back to life in a long and storied career.

Essential SF

SF360.org profiles the 2011 roster of Essential SF, an ongoing compendium of the film community’s vital figures and institutions.

Cinema by the Bay/Essential SF

Now in its second year, SFFS's Cinema by the Bay brings Bay Area films and filmmakers to Mission venues the Roxie Theater, the Lab and Southern Exposure. As part of the festivities, SF360 Presents Essential SF November 8, featuring a hard-core handful of the Bay Area's vital filmmakers and institutions. Look for more on the shows at sffs.org.

The View from Here

San Francisco Film Society's Cinema by the Bay festival puts the focus on locals.

The View from Here

San Francisco Film Society's Cinema by the Bay festival puts the focus on locals.

The View from Here

San Francisco Film Society's Cinema by the Bay festival puts the focus on locals.

Ed Burns Master Class and ‘Nice Guy Johnny’

The Roxie Theater hosts a San Francisco Film Society special presentation: Hollywood 2.0 is a discussion with Ed Burns on the making, marketing and distributing of his new film, ‘Nice Guy Johnny,’ which screens after the event. More at sffs.org.

Essential SF: Rick Prelinger

Rick Prelinger’s efforts at preserving ephemeral films have made him indispensable to the cinema of San Francisco—and the world.

Essential SF: Rick Prelinger

Rick Prelinger’s efforts at preserving ephemeral films have made him indispensable to the cinema of San Francisco—and the world.

French Cinema Now Continues

The SFFS fall festival of French cinema continues at Landmark’s Embarcadero Center Cinema. Abbas Kiarostami’s ‘Certified Copy,’ starring Juliet Binoche (in a role that won her a best actress prize at Cannes) closes the festival. More at sffs.org.

Marquee Names Light Up French Cinema Now

The latest finds from France's national cinema play in an SFFS showcase.

Marquee Names Light Up French Cinema Now

The latest finds from France's national cinema play in an SFFS showcase.

Marquee Names Light Up French Cinema Now

The latest finds from France's national cinema play in an SFFS showcase.

French Cinema Now

SFFS’s annual showcase of modern French filmmaking includes some of the country’s most important work from the past year, from Éléonore Faucher's 'Sisters' to Katell Quillévéré's 'Love Like Poison.' Mark Fitoussi's ‘Copacabana,’ starring Isabelle Huppert, opens the festival; it's followed by a reception at the Bubble Lounge, 714 Montgomery Street. All films play at Landmark’s Embarcadero Center Cinema. More at sffs.org.

SF Chronicle: 'Rainin Foundation selects 10 finalists'

"Ten Bay Area filmmakers got good news this month when the San Francisco Film Society and the Kenneth Rainin Foundation announced that they had narrowed their choices to a short list of contenders competing for $225,000 in cash," writes Hugh Hart. "The awards will go toward funding projects that explore civil rights, discrimination, gender and sexual identity. Winners will be named in November." More at SFGate.

Mike Ott on the Guileless Filmmaking of 'Littlerock'

Mike Ott, now up for a Gotham Award, speaks on filmmaking process and his indie film 'Littlerock.'

Mike Ott on the Guileless Filmmaking of 'Littlerock'

Mike Ott, now up for a Gotham Award, speaks on filmmaking process and his indie film 'Littlerock.'

Mike Ott on the Guileless Filmmaking of 'Littlerock'

Mike Ott, now up for a Gotham Award, speaks on filmmaking process and his indie film 'Littlerock.'

Taiwan Film Days

The San Francisco Film Society presents a three-day showcase of contemporary Taiwanese films at VIZ Cinema at New People. Niu Doze's crime saga 'Monga' opens the festival and is Taiwan's entry to for Best Foreign Language Film at the 83rd Academy Awards. More at sffs.org; look for a feature later this week on sf360.org.

Taiwan Film Days Returns

New stories emerge from a storied cinema nation in the second year of the Taiwan Film Days showcase.

Taiwan Film Days Returns

New stories emerge from a storied cinema nation in the second year of the Taiwan Film Days showcase.

Taiwan Film Days Returns

New stories emerge from a storied cinema nation in the second year of the Taiwan Film Days showcase.

Pitchers Craft Hits at SFFS Film Arts Forum

At SFFS Film Arts Forum, experts offered live advice on how to pitch a film.

Pitchers Craft Hits at SFFS Film Arts Forum

At SFFS Film Arts Forum, experts offered live advice on how to pitch a film.

Pitchers Craft Hits at SFFS Film Arts Forum

At SFFS Film Arts Forum, experts offered live advice on how to pitch a film.

Pitchers Craft Hits at SFFS Film Arts Forum

At SFFS Film Arts Forum, experts offered live advice on how to pitch a film.

Pitchers Craft Hits at SFFS Film Arts Forum

At SFFS Film Arts Forum, experts offered live advice on how to pitch a film.

Pitchers Craft Hits at SFFS Film Arts Forum

At SFFS Film Arts Forum, experts offered live advice on how to pitch a film.

SFFS Film Arts Forum: Pitch Perfect

Learn to hone your movie pitch with help from industry professionals Jennifer Chaiken, Megan Gelstein and Jacob Kornbluth in this panel discussion at Mezzanine moderated by SFFS director of filmmaker services Michele Turnure-Salleo. Three lucky filmmakers will be pitching live; the "laptop shop" film-sharing continues after the program.

A Children's Film Festival Finds Inspiration for All Ages

The NY/SF International Children's Film Festival offers a mix of animation, live action, fantasy, entertainment and insight.

A Children's Film Festival Finds Inspiration for All Ages

The NY/SF International Children's Film Festival offers a mix of animation, live action, fantasy, entertainment and insight.

A Children's Film Festival Finds Inspiration for All Ages

The NY/SF International Children's Film Festival offers a mix of animation, live action, fantasy, entertainment and insight.

NY/SF International Children's Film Festival

San Francisco Film Society and the New York International Children's Film Festival offer three days of films for kids, teens and their families, from 'Turtle—the Incredible Journey' (pictured) to Santosh Sivan's Kashmir story, 'Tahaan,' to shorts and animated films, kicking off Friday, September 24, with a kid-friendly opening night party at the Punch Line Comedy Club.

SFFS Screen: 'Change of Plans'

Danièle Thompson's film offers comedy from the lives of fortysomethings on a post-dinner party collision course.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

'Change of Plans' Finds Humor in Mid-Life

'Change of Plans' charts an eventful year in the lives of a dozen or so disparate Parisians.

SFFS Screen: 'Dogtooth'

In Yorgos Lanthimos' bizarre and enchanting world, children are ready to leave their walled-in, hyper-protective homes only when their 'dogtooth' comes out. Presented on the SFFS Screen at the Sundance Kabuki.

A Family Implodes in Biting 'Dogtooth'

A Greek film incriminates the viewer.

A Family Implodes in Biting 'Dogtooth'

A Greek film incriminates the viewer.

SFFS Screen: 'The Two Escobars'

In Jeff and Michael Zimbalist's documentary, sports, drugs, money, and the peaks and valleys of success and failure are intertwined by the parallell lives of Escobars Andres and Pablo, one an assassinated soccer star, the other a government-hunted drug lord. It's presented on the SFFS Screen at the Sundance Kabuki.

Two Zimbalists and 'Two Escobars'

The stories of an assassinated soccer star and the nation's most notorious criminal merge in a portrait of '80s-'90s Colombia.

Two Zimbalists and 'Two Escobars'

The stories of an assassinated soccer star and the nation's most notorious criminal merge in a portrait of '80s-'90s Colombia.

Two Zimbalists and 'Two Escobars'

The stories of an assassinated soccer star and the nation's most notorious criminal merge in a portrait of '80s-'90s Colombia.

Two Zimbalists and 'Two Escobars'

The stories of an assassinated soccer star and the nation's most notorious criminal merge in a portrait of '80s-'90s Colombia.

Two Zimbalists and 'Two Escobars'

The stories of an assassinated soccer star and the nation's most notorious criminal merge in a portrait of '80s-'90s Colombia.

Two Zimbalists and 'Two Escobars'

The stories of an assassinated soccer star and the nation's most notorious criminal merge in a portrait of '80s-'90s Colombia.

Eat, Pray, Love, Direct

Ruba Nadda speaks of sultry actors and tenacious directors in the making of 'Cairo Time.'

Eat, Pray, Love, Direct

Ruba Nadda speaks of sultry actors and tenacious directors in the making of 'Cairo Time.'

Eat, Pray, Love, Direct

Ruba Nadda speaks of sultry actors and tenacious directors in the making of 'Cairo Time.'

SFFS Screen: 'Army of Crime'

SFFS Screen presents Robert Guédiguian’s 'Army of Crime,' a historical drama that follows a cell of Jewish and communist resistance fighters led by French Armenian poet Missak Manouchian and his wife Mélinée.

'Army of Crime' Revisits the Not-Always French Resistance

'Army of Crime’s' portraits in heroism remain admirably restrained, unlike so many Resistance fantasies.

'Army of Crime' Revisits the Not-Always French Resistance

'Army of Crime’s' portraits in heroism remain admirably restrained, unlike so many Resistance fantasies.

'Army of Crime' Revisits the Not-Always French Resistance

'Army of Crime’s' portraits in heroism remain admirably restrained, unlike so many Resistance fantasies.

Back with a 'Vengeance'

Johnnie To delivers on his trademark themes with 'Vengeance.'

Back with a 'Vengeance'

Johnnie To delivers on his trademark themes with 'Vengeance.'

Back with a 'Vengeance'

Johnnie To delivers on his trademark themes with 'Vengeance.'

SFFS Screen: 'Vengeance'

Actor and legendary French rocker Johnny Hallyday sets the brooding, stylish tone in this cold dish of a film served by director Johnny To on SFFS Screen.

Back with a 'Vengeance'

Johnnie To delivers on his trademark themes with 'Vengeance.'

Back with a 'Vengeance'

Johnnie To delivers on his trademark themes with 'Vengeance.'

Back with a 'Vengeance'

Johnnie To delivers on his trademark themes with 'Vengeance.'

Alamar Re-opens SFFS Screen

The engrossing seascapes of 'Alamar' bring a deeper understanding of a father-son bond.

Alamar Re-opens SFFS Screen

The engrossing seascapes of 'Alamar' bring a deeper understanding of a father-son bond.

Alamar Re-opens SFFS Screen

The engrossing seascapes of 'Alamar' bring a deeper understanding of a father-son bond.

Poitras's Unexpected Path to 'The Oath'

Laura Poitras speaks during SFIFF53 about the process of creating The Oath from the stories of Osama Bin Laden's former bodyguard and driver.

SFIFF53: Golden Gate Awards and Juried Prizes/Grants Announced

Cash prizes totaling nearly $300,000 for filmmakers highlighted the San Francisco International Film Festival s Golden Gate Awards Wednesday night.

SFIFF53: War Stories

Films about our species enduring capacity to be inhumane toward its own are perennials at festivals, and will be so as long as wars are waged.

Behind the Music with 'Simonal'

The documentary Simonal: No One Knows How Tough it Was explores the polemic surrounding a man considered by many to be the greatest singer in Brazilian history.

Dialogues: Gary Snyder on Art, Anarchy and the Environment

Poet, essayist, environmentalist, Buddhist, public intellectual and teacher Gary Snyder speaks on life and the making of 'The Practice of the Wild.'

Dialogues: Gary Snyder on Art, Anarchy and the Environment

Poet, essayist, environmentalist, Buddhist, public intellectual and teacher Gary Snyder speaks on life and the making of 'The Practice of the Wild.'

New York-set Charlie Barker's Big S.F. Break

Along with selfless sacrifices and random luck, low-budget independent films often depend on the timely intervention of an angel.

SFIFF53: Women's Worlds

Don t let Hollywood crow about The Hurt Locker and the year of the woman until more filmmakers of the sort featured at this year s festival benefit.

SFIFF53: The Art of Revival

Through most of its history, the Festival has featured revivals of restored classics and little-known gems. This year s selections run an unusually wide gamut.

Local Filmmakers In SFIFF Spotlight

Leland Orser saw his first movie at the Alexandria, and Joshua Grannell initially established himself as a S.F. character via his alter ego Peaches Christ.

Hernandez's Guilty Verdict

If there's a sure-fire crowd-pleaser in this year's San Francisco International Film Festival, it s Roberto Hernandez and Geoffrey Smith's Presumed Guilty.

SFIFF s Porchlight On For Guests

Ch‚ Sandoval of Chile, Kaspar Astrup Schroder of Denmark, Pedro Gonzal‚z-Rubio of Mexico, John Herschend and Claudia Gonson don t have much in common except stories to tell.

SFIFF53 Reports: The Butcher Block; Opening Night

To be from the Bay Area and called The Butcher Brothers might mean you get mixed up with purveyors of grass fed meats.

Dialogues: Jim Harrison on Poetry, Documentary

Writer Jim Harrison offers thoughts about his relationship to Gary Snyder and his contributions to 'The Practice of the Wild.'

Dialogues: Jim Harrison on Poetry, Documentary

Writer Jim Harrison offers thoughts about his relationship to Gary Snyder and his contributions to 'The Practice of the Wild.'

SFIFF53: Deft Dussollier In 'Micmacs,' 'Wild Grass'

How many foreign stars do U.S. moviegoers know? Not many, alas. My favorite living French actor, André Dussollier, appears prominently in two high-profile festival films.

SFIFF53: Ephemeral Film and Music, Live & Onstage

If you imagine the S.F. International Film Festival as an circus tent, with Opening and Closing nights the main supports, the other tent poles are interactive live experiences.

Can-Can Do: Silent Shooting at the Victoria

The Victoria Theater is shut up tight, with no sign of life. After a few raps on the door, a woman peeks out and leads me inside.

Christina Yao's solid Empire of Silver

First-time filmmaker Christina Yao is soft-spoken and exceedingly polite, but it s apparent that very little intimidates her.

Rosen's Insights into 53rd San Francisco International

With opening night approaching, Rachel Rosen talked about her L.A. Rolodex, the function of festivals in a broadband world and her favorites in the festival.

San Francisco International Film Festival's 53rd Edition

Director of Programming Rachel Rosen and programmers Rod Armstrong, Audrey Chang and Sean Uyehara shared thoughts on 177 films from 46 countries.

West with 'Sweetgrass'

There will probably never be a theatrical release for James Benning's landscape movies. Amazingly, Ilisa Barbash and Lucien Castaing-Taylor have scored distribution and made a splash.

Words from Sundance Staffers: Jesse Dubus

Hilary Hart, who annually holds down the late-night shift at the Egyptian at Sundance, offers interviews with fellow workers at the festival.

Steven Severin On His Silent Spring

Once known primarily as the co-founder and bassist of the influential punk band Siouxsie and the Banshees, Steven Severin now follows his muse in many directions.

New Italian Cinema's Fact, Fiction, Fascination

The 13th New Italian Cinema festival finds the political and personal mixing more frequently than you'd find in any assortment of U.S. narrative films.

A Tour Through the 2009 Taiwan Film Days

For three days, the SFFS offers a chance to see contemporary Taiwanese cinema beyond the work of the usual Taiwanese film masters.

Parker and di Napoli on Parody and High Art

Bay Area locals Jonathan Parker and Catherine di Napoli discuss (Untitled), a hilarious romp through the world of conceptual art and atonal music.

French Cinema Now—and then

Francois Truffaut’s The 400 Blows is being revived as part of San Francisco Film Society’s second annual French Cinema Now festival, which runs the week of October 29 through November 4 at the city’s Clay Theatre.

Remembering Chick Strand

Chick Strand, a crucial pioneer of West Coast experimental cinema, died July 11 at 78.

SFFS's Debut Cinema by the Bay

A new, four-day showcase of local filmmaking doubles as a forum for the region's influence as subject and setting for filmmakers beyond the bay.

Heddy Honigmann and the Art of Interview

With the Netherlands-based filmmaker's latest portrait in resilience, Oblivion, opening Friday, it's a good time to celebrate one of documentary's most engaging storytellers.

Heddy Honigmann and the Art of Interview

With the Netherlands-based filmmaker's latest portrait in resilience, Oblivion, opening Friday, it's a good time to celebrate one of documentary's most engaging storytellers.

Montalbano's "The Recondite Heart"

East Bay filmmaker Miles Montalbano is in preproduction on dark coming-of-age story The Recondite Heart, his followup to his lauded debut, Revolution Summer.

Roy Andersson on "You, the Living"

A study in contrasts, Everyman and intellectual, Roy Andersson speaks about his career and new film, You, the Living.

Lucrecia Martel and "The Headless Woman"

To viewers of Lucrecia Martel's earlier work, The Headless Woman is the crowning achievement; the filmmaker speaks about her vision of the world.

High Drama in High school in 'The Beautiful Person'

The story of teenagers living like a savage, roaming pack of animals, The Beautiful Person locates a classic in a contemporary setting.

Kim Longinotto and Women Make Movies Film Festival

A mini-retrospective of the work of Kim Longinotto plays during the Women Make Movies Film Festival at the Roxie.

'Lion's Den' and '24 City'

Veteran filmmakers Pablo Trapero and Jia Zhang-ke complicate their genres with Lion's Den and 24 City.

Whip-smart, Witty 'In the Loop'

Director Armando Iannucci's razor-sharp satire is about how the politics of spin can determine critical decisions on both sides of the Atlantic.

An Ample Display of Tilda Swinton's Edge

Tilda Swinton's edge of riskiness is on ample display in Julia, a new film by French director Erick Zonca.

Richard Levien, from 'Immersion' to 'La Migra'

New Zealand transplant Richard Levien, a longstanding fixture of the San Francisco indie film community, breaks out of the editing room with Immersion.

Suspense, Stillness and Beauty in 'Three Monkeys'

Turkey may be lonely, but it is indeed beautiful in Nuri Bilge Ceylan's Three Monkeys.

Suspense, Stillness and Beauty in 'Three Monkeys'

Turkey may be lonely, but it is indeed beautiful in Nuri Bilge Ceylan's Three Monkeys.

Iron Curtain Call in the Poland of 'Katyn'

Katyn is a sizable period saga about a tragic, still-controversial chapter in Poland's 20th-century history, one with particular resonance for Andrzej Wadja.

Iron Curtain Call in the Poland of 'Katyn'

Katyn is a sizable period saga about a tragic, still-controversial chapter in Poland's 20th-century history, one with particular resonance for Andrzej Wadja.

Lee Isaac Chung on 'Munyurangabo'

One can't help but think about the concept of cinematic language, as well as spoken language, when talking with Munyurangabo filmmaker Lee Isaac Chung.

'Fados' finds Saura on his toes

Fados, about a Portuguese musical genre, reveals Carlos Saura as an effortless master at weaving together disparate performances.

Miller Brothers Touch Home at AT&T Park

The Miller brothers take their memoir-release to the local ballpark.

SFIFF52: Golden Gate Awards Uncorked, SFFS/KRF Grant Winner Announced

SFIFF handed out approximately $100,000 and announced the winner San Francisco Film Society/Kenneth Rainin Foundation Filmmaking Grant during its Golden Gate Awards.

SFIFF52: Planet Armstrong

Franny Armstrong's The Age of Stupid is a documentary encased like a time capsule inside a fictive but science-based, frighteningly possible future

Film Society Awards: Ballard, Coppola, Redford and Toback

The San Francisco Film Society honored Francis Ford Coppola, Carroll Ballard, Robert Redford and James Toback. Coppola surprised the audience by turning over the Founder's Directing Award he received to longtime colleague Carroll Ballard.

SFIFF52: Leone's 'Once Upon a Time in the West'

Once Upon a Time in the West is grand, cynical, lavish and above all huge, Sergio Leone's penchant for the iconically gargantuan (perhaps at the willing expense of relatable human detail) expressed in ultimate form.

SFIFF52: Robert Redford Accepts Owens Award

Robert Redford braves the public and accepts the San Francisco International Film Festival's Peter J. Owens Award.

SFIFF52: 'The Professionals' Unites Filmmakers

The Professionals an ambitious array of panels, case studies and discussions, makes its debut as a forum for encouraging Bay Area moviemakers to engage with guests and colleagues.

SFIFF52: Lourdes Portillo, Persistence of Vision Award Recipient

The San Francisco-based and internationally acclaimed documentarian Lourdes Portillo speaks about her work; she wins the 52nd San Francisco International Film Festival Persistence of Vision Award.

SFIFF52: Jarmel and Schneider's "Speaking in Tongues"

Jarmel and Schneider's Speaking in Tongues follows the stories of four public school children studying Mandarin, Cantonese and Spanish along with their English.

SFIFF52: Peter Bratt's "La Mission"

Peter Bratt's La Mission focuses on conflict within a family and a neighborhood, exploring what happens when a single father named Che learns a secret about his son that tests his love for his family and his community's love for him.

SFIFF52: Jim Granato's "D tour"

Local filmmaker Jim Granato, whose movie D tour follows the band Rogue Wave and its ailing drummer Pat Spurgeon, on tour and on dialysis, is competing for the San Francisco International Film Festival's Golden Gate Award in Documentary.

SFIFF52: Wisdom of the Underages

Where would cinema be without good, old-fashioned youthfulness? Hence: Youth Bring the Truth, a showcase for promising pre-adult media-makers including several local teenagers from this year's San Francisco International Film Festival.

SF International Film Festival Lineup

The two weeks of programs offers 151 films from 55 countries, awards and prices, and a wide array of San Francisco talent, from legendary names to the fledgling artists.

'Examined Life' Puts Ideas into Action

An engaging documentary sampler of nine leading contemporary theorists, interviewed in settings that one way or another in real world terms illustrate (or contrast with) the concepts they discuss.

'Medicine for Melancholy' in the City it Re-discovered

Barry Jenkins talks abut his background, making movies in San Francisco and the issues of black identity, assimilation and gentrification, which are at the heart of his film.

Strand Releasing Turns 20

Twenty years after its founding, Strand Releasing remains an active, irreplaceable and distinctive presence on the U.S. distribution scene.

Ten Commandments Before Diving into Digital Delivery

First-Person: Larry Daressa provides helpful hints on distribution strategy.

'Just Another Love Story' Offers Shock Treatment

A title like this is its own disclaimer, hinting there will be nothing "normal," or very loving, about this story.

'Just Another Love Story' Offers Shock Treatment

A title like this is its own disclaimer, hinting there will be nothing "normal," or very loving, about this story.

Stephane Gauger on 'Owl and the Sparrow'

In this fable-like movie, an indomitable young orphan finds friendship with a lonely flight attendant and a teen-age caretaker of elephants.

Stephane Gauger on 'Owl and the Sparrow'

In this fable-like movie, an indomitable young orphan finds friendship with a lonely flight attendant and a teen-age caretaker of elephants.

Social Justice Filmmaking Grants Announced

Grants totaling $3 million for narrative feature films made in the Bay Area will be distributed by the SFFS and the Kenneth Rainin Foundation.

César Charlone Directs 'The Pope's Toilet'

Oscar-nominated cinematographer César Charlone recently codirected his first theatrical feature film, a darkly comic farce about Pope John Paul II.

Québec Film Week's Unprovincial Pleasures

Québec's thriving regional cinema is showcased in San Francisco Film Society's latest mini-festival addition to the annual Bay Area movie calendar.

Sean Uyehara On the S.F. International Animation Festival

If, in the ol' days, they were called "'toons," these days, some heavy-duty words are required to express the strength and breadth of contemporary animation.

SFFS Screens 'Delwende'

Veteran Burkina Faso director S. Pierre Yameogo's new film shows an isolated society still vulnerable to superstition.

SFFS Screens 'Delwende'

Veteran Burkina Faso director S. Pierre Yameogo's new film shows an isolated society still vulnerable to superstition.

'Secrecy' Up For Debate

Robb Moss and Peter Galison's deliberative, atmospheric and engrossing documentary, Secrecy, puts democratic transparency to the test.

Crossing Borders with 'Fraulein'

A director who lives in both Switzerland and New York leads a Swiss-German coproduction about two women from former Yugoslavian territories who meet in Zurich.

SFFS's Inaugural French Cinema Now

The SFFS has added a Gallic counterpart to its long-running New Italian Cinema series.

The Fantastical Imagination of 'Wind Man'

When Wind Man appeared on the SFFS Screen at the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas' schedule, moral crisis ensued.

The Fantastical Imagination of 'Wind Man'

When Wind Man appeared on the SFFS Screen at the Sundance Kabuki Cinemas' schedule, moral crisis ensued.

'Days and Clouds' Finds Changes in the Weather

Economic troubles reveal the true depths of a couple's long-taken-for-granted bond in a film by Italian director Silvio Soldini.

'Hats Off' Fascinated With 93-Years-Young Actress

A local filmmaker looks at Mimi Weddell, a perennial bit part-player with a jaw-dropping collection of hats and endless show biz energy.

Catherine Breillat's 'The Last Mistress'

French author and director Catherine Breillat speaks about the fierce passion play of her latest, The Last Mistress.

Hard Look at China in 'Blind Mountain'

Li Yang speaks about commercial pressures in Chinese film and the story behind Blind Mountain.

SFFS Screen's 'Hank and Mike'

Thomas Michael remembers well the birth of Hank and Mike, the titular blue-collar Easter bunnies in director Matthiew Klinck's absurdist workplace comedy.

SFFS Screen's 'Hank and Mike'

Thomas Michael remembers well the birth of Hank and Mike, the titular blue-collar Easter bunnies in director Matthiew Klinck's absurdist workplace comedy.

Alex Gibney on Going 'Gonzo'

SF360.org sits down with director Alex Gibney, whose film, Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson played at the 51st SFIFF.

New Rohmer on SFFS Screen

Eric Rohmer's latest "moral tale," The Romance of Astrea and Cèladon, filled with evanescent beauty, plays as part of SFFS Screen.

Hong Sang Soo on the SFFS Screen

Woman on the Beach is a wonderful introduction to South Korean director Hong Sang Soo's films, in large part due to its subtle comedy.

SFFS Screen at Sundance Kabuki

The SF Film Society is optimistic that its year-round screen at the Sundance Kabuki will contribute to the spectrum of films in Bay Area theaters.

Gibney Going "Gonzo," Part Two

The second installment of Alex Gibney's interview about Gonzo: The Life and Work of Dr. Hunter S. Thompson, which closes the San Francisco International Film Festival.

Cinemania at the SF International

The Jules Feiffer quote at the bottom of festival superfan Sue Jean Halvorsen's email reads, "Movies are better than real life."

SFIFF51: Katherin McInnis Cues the Carnival Music

The longtime Bay Area resident, who recently relocated to Brooklyn, screens Woodward's Gardens in the shorts program "In A Lonely Place: New Experimental Cinema."

SFIFF51: Eddie Muller's Muses

A self-described "cultural archeologist," the noir expert's debut short, The Grand Inquisitor, pays homage to the Dashiell Hammett-style detective story.

Asia Argento, In Full Flower

Motherhood has supposedly had a slowing-down effect on Asia Argento, though at present evidence points rather wildly to the contrary. Not only does she star in this week’s San Francisco International Film Festival official opener, Catherine Breillat’s costume intrigue The Last Mistress, she also figures heavily in two other SFIFF features. Both are programmed in the culty "Late Show" section: Go Go Tales, Abel Ferrara’s most acclaimed film in years, and The Mother of Tears, a latest horror opus directed by her own fan-idolized gorehound dad Dario Argento. A couple weeks ago yet another vehicle opened commercially, Olivier Assayas’ Boarding Gate, which is entirely dominated by her feverish and highly physical performance.

Conventional logic might suggest all this visibility means it’s "breakthrough" time for Asia Argento, that moment when an actor goes from being a familiar face to a marquee name that can singlehandedly draw folks into the multiplex, or at least the arthouse. (In Europe she’s already quite well-known.) But as her project choices among other things bear out, Argento probably isn’t very interested in becoming a "star" in the conventional sense. In fact, she seems the girl most likely to run from any such fate.

SF Int'l announces its 51st program and year-round screen

The SFIFF announced its 2008 program and the June 13 launch of its year-round programming on one screen at the Sundance Kabuki

Five Great Skate Features

In honor of Gus Van Sant's new film, 'Paranoid Park,' five skate films that matter to the skate junkie, and three honorable mentions.

'Her Name is Sabine' With SF360 Movie Night

The entire Bay Area is invited to watch a film simultaneously in the comfort of home, and the selection is a delicate and heartfelt depiction of the director's autistic sister.

Second S.F. International Animation Festival

The S.F. International Animation Festival experienced a major bounce, with a number of sold-out shows in its venue at the Embarcadero Center Cinema.

Lucy Gray's Telluride

Lucy Gray reports from the 35th Telluride Film Festival.

'Joshua's' George Ratliff

George Ratliff talks about his first feature narrative Joshua, described by Sundance as a "horror story disguised as a sophisticated family drama."

Movies and Martinis, A Movement

For some movies, Sprite and popcorn aren't enough. You need gin and vodka and a room of unruly bodies shouting when they're not supposed to,

Reviews: "Bamako" and "Angel-A"

A masterful stroke by writer-director Abderrahmane Sissako; Luc Besson returns to American theaters after a nearly decade-long absence.

A "Flanders" Reader

As Bruno Dumont's Flanders navigates festival waters, it's been leaving behind a noticeable wake.

Picturing Politics at SFIFF50

A shot in Wonders Are Many makes visual reference to Guernica as shorthand for art's charge to speak for the voiceless.

Daniel Wu, Heavenly King

Daniel Wu and fictitious boy band Alive from his directorial debut The Heavenly Kings on Cantpop, the Bay Area, and Hong Kong film.

SF360 Film Culture Confidential: Shhhhhh....

How did Kink.com make it to the Mission? How did Straight Outta Hunters Point get out of Hunters Point? How'd the Roxie get saved?

A Rob Nilsson 10

The List: An Amerindie helmer well before the term was invented, Nilsson names 10 films which deeply affected him.

SFIFF50

A decade might be long enough in dog years, but in film festival terms it takes a bit more time to impress.

A Festival, a Half Century

Is there anyone who doesn't know that the San Francisco International Film Festival is turning 50 this month?

Uyehara Hits High Notes on Music of SFIFF50

Thinking about the upcoming SFIFF, music may not be the first thing that pops into your head. It may not even be the second.

The SF International's GreenWorld contest turns a big issue over to the makers of shorts

The SFIFF GreenWorld Contest brings the vision of filmmakers to the forefront of environmental discourse through fiction, documentary, experimental, and essayistic films.

Key Events of 50th SFIFF Announced at Sundance

Highlights of the upcoming festival were presented by the San Francisco Film Society Executive Director.

A "Backstage" Breakdown

Teenager Lucie's (Islid Le Besco) encounter with her idol, the pop diva Lauren Waks (Emmanuelle Seigner), turns into a twisted and creepy psychological relationship.

Cinema, New Italian Style

The relationship between intellectualism and passion, a distinctly Italian concern, propels the 2006 edition of New Italian Cinema.

Truman Capote , 1974

A visit to the 50th anniversary portion of San Francisco Film Society’s web site nets not just the real Truman Capote candidly essaying on life and the movies in a 1974 visit to the SF International Film Festival.

"One Man Band," two Pixar geniuses, and "The Iron Giant" revisited

Mark Andrews and Andrew Jimenez co-wrote and co-directed the unexpected, surprisingly funny short about two musicians vying for a young girl's lone coin.

San Francisco International Animation Showcase

San Francisco Film Society programming associate Sean Uyehara has pulled off a feat with the opening program for the first San Francisco International Animation Showcase.

Academy Grant Jump Starts SF International's 50th

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences' Academy Foundation bestowed a surprise grant of $150,000 over three years.

Night Listening with Patrick Stettner

The director of The Business of Strangers talks about his second feature, starring Robin Williams.

Addictive TV's VJ-style "Eye of the Pilot" at the Kabuki

An intimate group caught Addictive TV's VJ-style show of ÔEye of the Pilot' at the Kabuki, and stayed late for an enthusiastic Q&A.

Words on work with Michael Glawogger

A conversation with director Michael Glawogger on his film, Workingman's Death, which screens at the 2006 SFIFF.

International REMIX

If you haven't yet found your repurpose in life, SFIFF's International Remix site might be of use.

Tommy Pallotta's Reanimation of "A Scanner Darkly"

The producer talks about the barriers filmmakers have faced in bringing Philip K. Dick's novel to the screen.

Picks for the San Francisco International Film Festival

The List: B. Ruby Rich picks her favorites for the 2006 San Francisco International Film Festival.

49th Annual SFIFF Lineup

San Francisco International Film Festival announces lineup for the 49th annual festival.

Sundance Cinemas Buys Kabuki 8

Sundance Cinemas buys the Kabuki 8 and announces plans to reopen as the Sundance Kabuki in early fall 2006.

SFFS and Kenneth Rainin Foundation Announce Fall 2010 Grant Finalists

SFFS Press Release: "The San Francisco Film Society and the Kenneth Rainin Foundation announced the ten finalists for the fourth round of SFFS/KRF Filmmaking Grants of up to a total of $225,000, to be given to one or more feature films that through plot, character, theme or setting significantly explore human and civil rights, discrimination, gender and sexual identity and other urgent social justice issues of our time." More at sffs.org