November 12, 2008

Exclusive pictures of Twilight's Michael Welch & THE SOCKS

As readers of this blog know, I've been following the exploding career of young actor Michael Welch for several years here. In February, PROnetworks was the first online to announce that he had been cast in the role of Mike Newton in Twilight, the highly anticipated Summit Pictures release of the film based on Stephenie Meyer's popular novel. Twilight is due in theaters on November 21.

As excitement about the film, and Welch's role in it, began to grow, an odd episode that can only be called "the socks affair" began to unfold. Allow me to explain.

On March 12, 2008 Twilight Lexicon, the unofficial internet authority on all things Twilight, came up with a seemingly simple proposal.

Now on to something fun, frivolous, and...well...just plain goofy. In our recent interview with Mike Welch, the actor who will be playing Mike Newton in Twilight, he mentions packing and not being able to find any socks. Now, for those of you who read the interview, pretty much one of the first things you notice is the off-beat sense of humor Mike has. So, we had an idea. Why not have the fans send him socks so hes never without?

So, if you would like to participate, drop Mike a note and pair of socks. You can order socks through our Amazon shop.. OK, things I never anticipated, Ive been asked his sock size. YIKES! I have no idea. Hes 5 10 so Im thinking he probably doesnt have small feet.

Several weeks later, on April 2, Michael wrote on his MySpace blog:

I love you guys. "Ha ha ha!" Did you really send me socks? That's incredible. For those of you who dont know what Im talking about, let me briefly explain. A little while ago, before I began my road trip up to Portland, I mentioned that I was low on socks. I picked up a 12 pack in Berkeley and figured that that would be the end of it. Then Twilight Lexicon tells its readers: "Hey! Lets send Mike socks! Itll be funny!" And they did!!! Not only did the twi-hards dig the idea, they followed through with it. One complete joke from idea to conception, THATS fan commitment. I have so many socks now its ridiculous. You guys are beautiful. I appreciate the gesture very much.

Thanks again for the socks you crazy beautiful people!

That same day Twilight Lexicon responded:

When we read Mike Welchs blog today and he spoke about receiving the socks spurred on by this post, of course we wanted to know how many socks he got. So we contacted his management who told us 25 or 30 pairs of socks. Which we thought was pretty cool, but somehow we thought more fans than that had responded.

Well the next thing you know we get a phone call from Mikes mom...yes, his mom( *waves to Mike's mom!*). It seems that they had the number only partially right. They have received 25 BOXES of socks such as:

* baby booties (Mikes mom is saving those for when Mike has kids of his own.)
* tube socks
* dress socks
* Twilight themed socks
* hand-knit socks
* socks with individual toe holders.

Mike hasn't seen them yet since hes been filming, he's only been told about them and the notes attached to them.

As time went on, dozens of articles referencing "the socks affair" appeared at Twilight Lexicon and elsewhere, including MTV and many other Twilight fansites. Michael's MySpace continued to be bombarded with comments and messages.

So, naturally, when I headed out to cover the Opening Night of Michael's play Speech & Debate at The Blank Theatre in West Hollywood a couple of months ago, I felt it my journalistic duty to examine and verify the receipt of said socks. After the performance, I shot some pictures backstage and at the afterparty. Then I proceeded to a secret location where I would rendezvous with Michael.

What I discovered when I arrived was quite a spectacle. There was Michael, visible only from the neck up, literally buried in a mountain of socks, stockings, and booties of all shapes, colors, and sizes. I whipped out my camera and went to work, documenting the moment for posterity.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

Posted by phileysmiley at 06:42 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

November 03, 2008

It's time to vote, and I don't mean the Oscars

There haven't been very many awe-inspiring movies opening this fall and certainly not much news to report in the independent film world lately. Perhaps it's because, in contrast, last year's fall festival season was so rich with creativity, I decided to pass up on many of the events I'd normally attend at this time of year, focusing instead on keeping track of the progress (or not) of the films I saw at this year's festivals which have not yet been picked up or are awaiting release. Unfortunately, there have been very few of those either.

Rather than the Toronto Film Festival being the start of something big this year, it seems as if my return from that wonderful trip brought me home to a void. For those reasons, primarily, this blog has been unusually quiet. That's the bad news. The good news is that it has freed me up to focus on my other passion, the presidential election.

I don't write about politics on this blog but there is another forum on the PROnetworks website where I do. I've also been a volunteer in presidential elections going back (ahem) years and have been making phone calls and knocking on doors this fall as well. It will all be over after tomorrow, of course, and it won't be long before we'll be perusing the Sundance and Santa Barbara lineups for January. Film Independent's Spirit awards are approaching as well, and I'm looking forward to getting my ballot in the mail and screening the films I haven't had the chance to see.

But tomorrow we have the chance to change the direction of this country, and I urge all my fellow film fans to get out and vote. Find your polling place, bring a friend, and, most of all, bring a good book. Maybe even a portable DVD player and watch a good movie. Because, as we've heard, there is a chance the lines will be long and the wait interminable. The law states that anyone in line at the time the polls close must still be allowed to vote. But get there early. Participate. Be a part of what our ancestors fought for. Have a voice in our government. Nothing is more important for a citizen of our great country to do than vote. So do it.

Posted by phileysmiley at 06:11 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 28, 2008

Michael Welch of "Twilight" in his 4th Grade Talent Show

Long before he was cast as Mike Newton in Twilight, the highly anticipated Summit Pictures release of the film based on Stephenie Meyer's popular novel (out November 21), Michael Welch was enjoying the spotlight. "When I was nine years old I did this routine in our fourth grade talent show," Welch told me. "I guess you could say this is when I caught the acting bug!"

The video speaks for itself.

You can also download the clip in mp4 or wmv format at michaelwelchmedia.com.

Posted by phileysmiley at 04:10 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 16, 2008

"Twilight's" Michael Welch to star in "Rough Hustle"

I've been following the exploding career of young actor Michael Welch for several years on this blog. In February, PROnetworks was the first online to announce that he had been cast in the role of Mike Newton in Twilight, the highly anticipated Summit Pictures release of the film based on Stephenie Meyer's popular novel. Twilight is due in theaters on November 21.

Now I've been given the honor of announcing that Welch's newest project is an independent film titled Rough Hustle. Writer/director Delaney Dragon has given us this exclusive first look at the synopsis, along with some artwork featuring Welch.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

Michael Welch has seven other films just released or coming out shortly, as well as a number of television projects. He will soon be seen in All the Boys Love Mandy Lane (scheduled to be released within a few months) and Lost Dream (in post-production). He has also completed An American Crime, Remember the Daze, and Day of the Dead (all recently released on DVD), The Thacker Case (currently playing the festival circuit), American Son (soon to debut on Starz), and four episodes of the FX series The Riches. He is currently appearing onstage in Speech and Debate at The Blank Theater in West Hollywood.

He has both an official site at michaelwelchonline.com/ as well as an official MySpace at myspace.com/officialmichaelwelch.

Posted by phileysmiley at 10:47 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 14, 2008

"Lymelife" picked up for US distribution by Screen Media

Following each film festival I attend, after posting my pictures, reviews, and list of Top Picks, I keep a watch on acquisition news. Some of the films that play festivals have distribution deals already in place but the overwhelming majority are screened specifically for this purpose, to get noticed by distributors and acquired for theatrical release.

Ideally, all the films I've selected as favorites will get picked up for distribution and the non-festivalgoing public will have the opportunity to see these wonderful films in theaters. But so far the post-Toronto distribution news has been spotty, and there's been precious little to report.

Today we got some good news. I am thrilled to report that Lymelife has been acquired for U.S. distribution by Screen Media Films. "This is the kind of film we are most interested in releasing," said Robert Baruc, President of Screen Media. "Lymelife" is a beautifully shot film, with extraordinary performances and a powerful story that is moving, as well as intriguing." A dark comedy set in suburban Long Island, New York, Lymelife features stunning performances from Alec Baldwin, Kieran Culkin, Rory Culkin, Jill Hennessey, Timothy Hutton, Cynthia Nixon, and Emma Roberts. It's a slightly less dark Snow Angels.

Derick Martini's Lymelife was one of my Top Picks from this year's Toronto International Film Festival. Earlier I posted pictures I shot at the Q&A following the screening. The film won the prize of the International Critics (FIPRESCI Prize) for Discovery.

I'll be sure to post release news here as it is announced, and will continue to follow the progress of the other gems from this year's festival.

Posted by phileysmiley at 01:50 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 13, 2008

Pictures from Obama rally in Philadelphia (& how I met him)

Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama made his first appearance within the city limits of Philadelphia this past Saturday. In fact, he held four rallies on the same day in the same city -- an unprecedented occurrence. Pennsylvania is a battleground state and, historically, voter turnout in the Philadelphia area determines the vote in the rest of the state. The region has over five million people, which is 40% of the total population of the state. Pennsylvania has 12.5 million people. The Greater Philadelphia metropolitan area is the fourth largest metropolitan area in the United States, ranking behind New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.

The logistics must have been challenging. These were events in close quarters where there are apartment buildings all around. They are literally small commercial and residential areas in the middle of a big city. Only two were in what I'd call "open areas." The others were right in the middle of narrow streets. There had never been rallies like this before for such a major candidate. Fortunately, these were neighborhoods which are quite favorable to him. They're also relatively close to each other -- maybe 20 minutes at the most, especially since they clear the roads for his motorcade. The rally I attended took place in front of the Mayfair Diner on Frankford Avenue in Philadelphia's Mayfair-Homesburg section.

This wasn't the first time I'd met a Presidential candidate. I actually had breakfast with Bill Clinton at the Mayfair Diner the morning before he became President in 1992. His campaign was bookended here. He began his campaign in Philly and started his last day before the election here. It was a crucial battleground state then also and he was counting on Philadelphia to deliver the state to him (which it did).

It was not announced until about an hour beforehand, and only about 20 people were to be chosen to sit with him inside. Thousands gathered in the parking lot. It's a long story but I ended up being one of the lucky ones. Everyone had been chosen and I was initially passed up. I began to walk away when they suddenly realized they needed one more young white male and they grabbed me and threw me in. It was really more like a movie or TV set inside. It had been closed to the public and was filled with TV lights and cameras and press. The people were carefully selected to represent a cross-section of ages, races, and colors and placed in specific areas inside the diner.

When I got to meet Clinton, I was struck by how large and imposing he was. He looked me in the eye and shook my hand firmly. I said, "can I call you Mr. President?" And he chuckled, in that patented gravelly voice, and said "not yet, Larry, not yet." Hillary was there as well. I didn't have a camera at the time. I did get his autograph on a paper plate, though.

The Obama rally this past Saturday turned out to be another "right place right time" event. There were thousands of people waiting to get in but only about 15 people were allowed to stand against the railing facing the stage and I was fortunate to be one of them. I was the third person through the security line, so I had a spot directly in front of the podium. Behind us was an aisle of police, then a yellow tape behind which was the rest of the crowd. I was about 20 feet from Obama. It was a very small stage, relatively low to the ground, with only about 10 feet in the pit area between the barricade and the stage. When it was over he made his way around the inside of the barricade and shook hands with the people leaning against it. There were no more than about 50 people who were able to gather around the barricade to meet him.

I was very surprised at how much attention he paid to each person he met. I was expecting the typical rope line -- grab hand, slap hand, move on, no eye contact, touch as many people as possible. But I reached up to grasp his hand and he just held it as he talked to people next to and behind me. It was a little odd -- I was expecting him to let go and he didn't. He gripped my hand and wouldn't let go. It was almost like I was falling out of a boat and he was grabbing on to pull me in. Not at all like your typical polite but distant handshake. I said, "good luck Mr. President." He looked down (he's a big guy), looked me straight in the eye and smiled, and said, "thanks -- thank you very very much." I thanked him for coming to my little neighborhood and he smiled back. He was in no hurry to leave. Then again, he wasn't going to meet 100 people -- there were really only a few dozen of us, so he gave us each a bit of time. He even signed autographs for anyone who wanted, although he would only sign copies of his book (which almost everyone had anyway) and only if the people gave them to the Secret Service ahead of time, to be returned later. They didn't want any pens sticking out.

It was oddly exciting. I've met, literally, hundreds of rock stars and movie stars and am never starstruck by celebrities -- many of my best friends are "famous" -- but there is something different about meeting someone who may become President. It transcends everything else and makes the entertainment industry look trivial in comparison. After all, our President is arguably the most powerful individual in the world. That's heady.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) setting up metal detectors for security screenings in the morning. Yes, these are the same people who do airports. Cameras and phones had to be turned on so they could see they're real, all metal out of pockets, wands, patdowns when necessary, etc. Everyone had to go through this.

Philadelphia Police SWAT teams on the roofs. They were on all the buildings surrounding the area, with binoculars and high-powered rifles.

(L) For some perspective -- this was about three hours before the event. That is the barricade I was leaning on. Those two women came in with me and we grabbed spots dead center. To the left you can see the pit which surrounded the stage, which is out of site on the left. A total of about 15 people stood along that barricade where we were. That big stage with "Change" on it is not the stage. That's a set of bleachers for VIPs.
(R) This is to give you an idea of where we were. I am leaning on the barricade. Between the barricade and the stage is a narrow pit for press -- that woman is a photographer. There were about 10 feet between me and the stage. Pretty close. Pretty exciting.

(L) Here he is one person to my right. It's my turn to meet him next.
(R) And this is one person to my left, right after he'd met me.

Posted by phileysmiley at 01:24 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

October 06, 2008

Video #2 of Michael Welch of "Twilight" for Kids With A Cause

Two weeks ago, we posted a video featuring actor Michael Welch (Twilight) on ways to save the environment. He has been involved with the charitable organization Kids With A Cause since 1999 and created a public service announcement to help show kids how they can help better their world. That video became an overnight sensation so he has sent us a followup.

Each year Kids With A Cause determines recipient youth organizations that will benefit from their programs and tries, when possible, to extend their support beyond the Los Angeles area. "We are always willing and ready to lend a hand to children in need anywhere, if travel arrangements can be sponsored," founder Linda Finnegan told us. "Kids With A Cause creates the program, brings the necessary supplies and materials and delivers positive and influential messages from our celebrity youth Members & Ambassadors."

So here is another exclusive video of actor Michael Welch showing kids some ways they can play a part in helping to save the world around them.

Posted by phileysmiley at 05:34 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 28, 2008

Woodstock, Ft Lauderdale, Hamptons, New Hampshire, Williamstown Film Festival lineups

With Toronto wrapped up, fall film festival season is underway with some of the biggest and best releasing their lineups this past week. Most include films which are among the ones I saw at festivals earlier this year, including some of my Top Picks.

Of the East Coast festivals I've attended in autumns past, these five are my favorites.

This year's Woodstock Film Festival runs from this coming Wednesday through Sunday, October 1-5, in Woodstock, New York. The lineup includes four films which I highly recommend. Explicit Ills was one of my Top Picks from this year's SXSW Film Festival. Explicit Ills also won that festival's awards for Best Cinematography and Best Narrative Feature. Let The Right One In was one of my Top Picks from the Tribeca Film Festival, where it won Best Narrative Feature. I also saw Secret of the Grain at Tribeca, and Zack and Miri Make a Porno brought down the house at Toronto last month. Both are certainly worth seeing.

The Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival takes place from October 13-November 12 in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. This year's lineup includes Newcastle, another one of my Top Picks from this year's Tribeca Film Festival. This Australian film is winning raves at every festival it plays and will be opening in theaters downunder shortly.

Always bringing out the New York area film lovers community, the Hamptons International Film Festival takes place from October 15-19 on Long Island, New York.

The New Hampshire Film Festival also occupies the weekend of October 16-19 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire.

Finally, the quaint Williamstown Film Festival takes place from October 17-26 in Williamstown, Massachusetts. This year's lineup includes Bart Got A Room, another audience-pleaser which I saw at this year's Tribeca Film Festival.

If you're a film lover and are looking for a sure thing this fall, try to take in any of the above festivals. And bring a camera. Nothing beats the breathtaking colors of autumn as the leaves turn in the Northeast.

Posted by phileysmiley at 01:23 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 26, 2008

Pictures from "Speech & Debate" Opening Night

Three of America's most talented young indie film actors, Michael Welch (Twilight), Aaron Himelstein (Fast Food Nation), and Mae Whitman (Hope Floats), are appearing onstage in Stephen Karam's controversial play Speech & Debate. Under the direction of Daniel Henning, the actors perform Thursdays through Sundays at The Blank Theatre in West Hollywood. I was present at Opening Night, Thursday, September 18, and returned the following evening for an encore.

Besides being a hilarious and exciting night of theater, this is an exceptional opportunity to see these budding movie stars together in a live setting. The three grew up as friends. Welch and Himelstein have worked many times before, including the CBS-TV hit Joan of Arcadia and the recent All the Boys Love Mandy Lane and Remember the Daze. Welch first worked with Whitman at the age of 11 as a Buddhist monk on CBS' Chicago Hope.

The play has been very well-received. "The performances are uniformly strong (all three actors have extensive television and film resumes), but the standout is Michael Welch as Howie (an openly gay student). His expressions and tone are pitch perfect and underplayed. As a result, his character comes off as genuine and engaging rather than stereotypical," said Ariana Mufson on CurtainUp.com. "Mae Whitman is a powerful presence as Diwata, especially when she blogs online through her video cam with musical musings...Aaron Himelstein rounds out the cast as Solomon, and some of the best scenes are between him and Welch, with overlapping dialogue and an easy rapport that makes them fun to watch."

I highly recommend taking advantage of this rare opportunity while you can. Fortunately, for those unable to make the trip (or for those who have and enjoyed it as much as I did), all of America will have the chance to see this play soon, albeit in a slightly different form. I was told after the Opening Night show that Overture Films has picked up the rights to turn Speech & Debate into a movie. Here are some pictures I shot at the Opening Night afterparty.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

Michael Welch and friend Ryanne

Aaron Himelstein & Mae Whitman

Posted by phileysmiley at 03:42 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 21, 2008

Video of Michael Welch of "Twilight" on the environment for Kids With A Cause

Actor Michael Welch (Twilight) has been involved with the charitable organization Kids With A Cause since 1999.

"The members behind Kids With A Cause are young performers in the entertainment industry who recognize, even at young ages, that it is never too early or too late to give back to the children in their communities and to the children of the world," said founder Linda Finnegan.

"Kids With A Cause was founded by in September 1999 to teach the principles and practices of philanthropy to today's youth," according to the organization's website. "Through unique and interactive programs, Kids With A Cause inspires children and teens to become caring and compassionate individuals and encourages them to continue their philanthropic efforts into their adult years."

Here, in his own unique, funny way, actor Michael Welch shows kids some ways they can chip in to help save the environment.

Posted by phileysmiley at 03:09 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 16, 2008

Pics of Rory & Kieran Culkin from "Lymelife" Premiere

On Tuesday, September 9, I attended the World Premiere of Lymelife at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival. I chose the film as one of my Top Picks from this year's festival. Lymelife also won the prize of the International Critics (FIPRESCI Prize) for Discovery.

Here are some pictures I shot at the exciting Q&A after the screening, which was truly a family affair with the brothers Martini and Culkin in attendance. Derick Martini directed the film, which he and his brother Steven wrote and edited together. Steven also composed the music and produced. They were joined by cast members Rory and Kieran Culkin.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

(L to R) Rory Culkin, Kieran Culkin, Steven Martini, and Derick Martini

Posted by phileysmiley at 08:51 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

The troubles with "Fifty Dead Men Walking"

The Toronto International Film Festival hosted the World Premiere of Fifty Dead Men Walking on Wednesday, September 10 in a glitzy gala screening at the glamorous Roy Thomson Hall. Directed by Kari Skogland, with an all-star cast featuring Ben Kingsley, Jim Sturgess, Kevin Zegers, Nathalie Press, and Rose McGowan, the highly anticipated and very controversial film is based on the true story of IRA infiltrator Martin McGartland during "the Troubles" which plagued Northern Ireland in the 1980s. Unfortunately, it was not as pleasant an experience as I'd hoped. There were three major problems, all involving the sound in the hall and on the screen.

First, the venue itself was not a movie theater. It's a 2800-seat concert hall and was not set up properly for a film. There was a great deal of echo, and the bass of the soundtrack and dialogue often canceled each other out.

To add to that, the sound mix on the film itself left a lot to be desired. I love music and great soundtracks as much if not more than most people, but it was so loud at times that the audience couldn't hear much dialogue at all. I don't know if it was just because of the venue acoustics or the film's sound mix itself or both, but there were entire segments of the film where the dialogue was completely drowned out by the soundtrack.

Finally, when one could hear the dialogue, the accents were so thick and heavy that it was extremely difficult to understand. Between the acoustics, the sound mix, the dialects, and the slang I could barely make out about a third of the dialogue. For approximately the first hour I couldn't follow one complete conversation, combining the three elements I just mentioned. Now, I attend many films and have seen plenty of movies with thick Irish accents but this one went far beyond any I've seen. Subtitles are definitely needed.

Certainly I'm not alone in my opinions. Variety's review is only 475 words and almost half is about the plot itself -- a bit too much, in my opinion. Only about 250 words make up the actual review of the film. I'm not used to reviewing reviews, but I generally dislike Variety's because they usually reveal too much. That said, although this one has a few spoilers, as usual, it may help in this case since the film is so confusing at first. Some audience members near me went through most of the film not knowing who was on which side, and the review does point that out. They also do acknowledge the language challenges.

The ScreenDaily review devotes even less time to talking about the film and more about the plot. But they also comment on the heavy use of music. I do agree with both reviews, though, for the most part.

I don't know how many people walked out but in my section there were dozens. I've also been told that a reporter for Entertainment Weekly left the hall (for the reasons I mentioned). Fifty Dead Men Walking Out seems more appropriate. I've never walked out on a film, ever. I've seen over 500 films just since the start of 2006 at about 30 festivals, and have seen some pretty bad ones, but this was the first time I wanted to leave. I resisted the urge, though, and am glad I did because the exciting second hour of the film was definitely worth waiting for, and the action becomes more important than the dialogue at that point anyway.

I'm fairly certain Fifty Dead Men Walking will find a US distributor if it hasn't already. Sources close to the film told me that a deal may be announced soon. It definitely deserves a wide release but only if it's subtitled. Otherwise I cannot recommend seeing it except for diehard fans of the cast members, those who know the story well, or those who have the ability to understand the thickest Irish accents.

I just wish I could have understood more of it. Between the physical setup of the venue, the mix on the film itself, and the dialect, it was quite hard to understand most of the dialogue. Hopefully I'll be able to see it again and give it a positive review but, for now, I simply cannot write about this film properly because I just missed too much to judge it fairly. As much as I love the body of work of these actors, unfortunately, I could not select it as one of my Top Picks from the festival. I might have if I could hear what they were saying.

Posted by phileysmiley at 12:40 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Pics of Atom Egoyan & Devon Bostick at "Adoration" Premiere

On Tuesday, September 9, I attended the North American Premiere of Adoration at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival. This is classic filmmaking at its best. What we see onscreen vs. what is in our heads -- the spaces we fill with our own thoughts -- are artfully juggled by Egoyan and the result is simply a masterpiece. The moment the credits began to roll I wanted to see the film again.

Earlier, I posted my review.

The screening was followed by a lengthy, in-depth Q&A with writer/director/co-producer Atom Egoyan. I caught up with star Devon Bostick later that evening.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

Writer/director/co-producer Atom Egoyan

Lead actor Devon Bostick

Posted by phileysmiley at 12:38 AM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 15, 2008

My review of "Adoration"

Adoration is, at its heart, a coming-of-age story. It's about that time of self-discovery when the question "who am I?" becomes an obsession. But what makes this film so startlingly refreshing is that it also has a classic structure rarely seen in contemporary cinema. The viewer is never quite sure whether or not the images onscreen are real or imagined. Think of a chess game where each move prompts you to replay the entire game in your head. Such is the experience of watching Adoration, brilliantly conceived and executed by writer/director/co-producer Atom Egoyan.

Egoyan is a legend in his adopted country of Canada with dozens of awards and nominations to his credit (1997's The Sweet Hereafter earned him Oscar noms for writing and directing). The mere mention of his name widens the eyes of citizens north of the border, as I learned here at the Toronto International Film Festival, where I attended the film's North American Premiere (it debuted at Cannes, where it was nominated for the prestigious Palm D'Or). Locals hold him to a very high standard. For me, I prefer going in cold, knowing as little as possible about a film. Similarly, I won't reveal much about the story here -- I abhor spoilers.

After losing his parents under questionable circumstances, Simon (Devon Bostick) is reluctantly being raised by his Uncle Tom (Scott Speedman). Simon's memories of his mother Rachel (Rachel Blanchard), an accomplished violinist, and father Sami (Noam Jenkins) are shrouded in mystery. Enter Simon's teacher Sabine (Arsinée Khanjian), who might be able to help Simon unlock the secrets that are the key to his youthful confusion. What follows is a brain teaser which takes great concentration. The wheels are always turning, and the viewer is constantly challenged to figure out exactly what is real or perceived, and by whom.

The look of the film enhances the mystery inherent in the story. The use of single-point lighting allows shadows to fall upon already-obscure settings. Music is essential to the plot and, as such, Rachel's violin virtuosity is extended to a string soundtrack that is as haunting as the film itself. Paul Sarossy's cinematography is cleverly integrated with composer Mychael Danna's soundtrack, with tracking shots set to music as a visual ballet. Editor Susan Shipton had a tall order working with Egoyan to craft a virtual puzzle in which nothing is at it seems.

Speedman ably plays the father figure who isn't quite ready to take on the task of raising a teen but does so out of loyalty to his late sister. Khanjian's Sabine is simply chilling and central to the power of the film. Blanchard is a joy to watch -- simply an angel onscreen (and shot that way, to boot) -- and Jenkins successfully remains an enigmatic personality throughout. But, most of all, this is Bostick's film to carry on his young shoulders. Appearing in almost every scene, it's his curiosity and angst which drive Adoration, and it's our empathy for him (weren't we all Simon once?) that gives the film its heart and soul. Bostick is one of Canada's most prolific young actors (he co-starred in Citizen Duane, one of my Top Picks from the 2006 festival) and will hopefully be introduced to a wider audience if this film gets the distribution it deserves.

The moment the credits began to roll I wanted to see Adoration again. If there were back-to-back screenings I would have remained in my seat. This is the first film in recent memory which has had that effect on me. There's nothing more exciting and intriguing than a film that plays with space and time, where perception matters more than anything else. What we see onscreen vs. what is in our heads -- the spaces we fill with our own thoughts -- are artfully juggled by Egoyan and the result is simply a masterpiece.

Posted by phileysmiley at 06:06 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 14, 2008

Pics of Lynn Collins & Joseph Gordon-Levitt at "Uncertainty" World Premiere

On Monday, September 8, I attended the World Premiere of Uncertainty at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival.

Scott McGehee and David Siegel, who co-directed, wrote, and produced the film, were joined by cast members Lynn Collins (Kate) and Joseph Gordon-Levitt (Bobby) for an in-depth Q&A following the screening. Here are some pictures I shot.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

Collins, Gordon-Levitt, & McGehee (L)
Gordon-Levitt, McGehee, & Siegel (R)

Posted by phileysmiley at 09:33 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

2008 Toronto International Film Festival -- My Top Picks

The 2008 Toronto International Film Festival has come to an exciting conclusion and I've returned home to take stock of my experience there. As in previous years, and as I do following every film festival (30 since the start of 2006), this wrapup will conclude with my list of Top Picks.

This year I attended a total of 25 screenings. Only 10 were American (including one US/UK co-production). The other 15 films were from outside the US, including nine with subtitles. The other six represented other English-speaking countries -- two from host country Canada, one from the UK, one Canada/UK co-production, one from Australia, and one Ireland/Sweden co-production. The one from Canada/UK, Fifty Dead Men Walking, wasn't subtitled but should have been. There was one documentary -- It Might Get Loud.

Please keep in mind that there were a lot of enjoyable films -- only a few were disappointing. Most I'd recommend and some I'd even see again. But these are the best of the best -- the films that I'd not only recommend, but also see again and buy the DVD. I chose eight, listed below.

I also give a qualified recommendation to It Might Get Loud (USA), the documentary featuring Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White. If you don't know who these people are, skip to the next section. If you do know these names, and the sound of their music excites you, this film is a must-see.

Here is my list of Top Picks from the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival. Countries of origin are listed in parentheses.

(in alphabetical order)

Acolytes (Australia)
Adoration (Canada)
The Country Teacher (Czech Republic/Germany//France)
Krabat (Germany)
Lymelife (USA)
Patrik, Age 1.5 (Sweden)
Pride and Glory (USA)
Winds of September (Taiwan)

There were two films on my list which went on to win jury awards. Lymelife won the prize of the International Critics (FIPRESCI Prize) for Discovery. In the City of Toronto-Citytv Award for Best Canadian Feature Film category, Adoration received a Special Citation.

Posted by phileysmiley at 05:57 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Pics of Sophia Bush & Kevin Zegers at "The Narrows" World Premiere at Toronto

On Monday, September 8, I attended the World Premiere of The Narrows at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival. It's a very intriguing and captivating film about brotherhood, family, and loyalty. Sophia Bush and Kevin Zegers drive the narrative, while Vincent D'Onofrio steals every scene he's in and provides most of the lighthearted moments in an otherwise violent, tension-filled story.

The gritty setting of Brooklyn, New York is another character in itself. Since Zegers plays a photographer, and a lot of the movie focuses on that, it has a great look. There are some exciting visuals such as the use of black & white stills, freeze-frame, and fast motion. The highlight is the third act, filled with twists and turns that are totally unexpected, and some stunning reveals that made the audience gasp.

The screening was followed by a lengthy, in-depth Q&A with cast members Sophia Bush (Kathy Popovich) and Kevin Zegers (Mike Manadoro). Star Vincent D'Onofrio could not attend, but director François Velle read a text message he sent to the audience.

Here are some pictures I shot of Kevin Zegers and Sophia Bush.

Click thumbnails to enlarge

Posted by phileysmiley at 01:30 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 13, 2008

Pics from "Middle of Nowhere" World Premiere at Toronto

On Saturday, September 6, I attended the World Premiere of Middle of Nowhere at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival.

Here are some pictures I shot at the exciting Q&A which followed the screening, at which director John Stockwell was joined by cast members Susan Sarandon (Rhonda Berry), Anton Yelchin (Dorian Spitz), Eva Amurri (Grace), Willa Holland (Taylor), and Justin Chatwin (Ben Pretzler).

Click thumbnails to enlarge

(L to R) Cast members Anton Yelchin, Eva Amurri, Susan Sarandon, Justin Chatwin, and Willa Holland

Director John Stockwell

Posted by phileysmiley at 07:03 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Video of Jimmy Page, The Edge, & Jack White at Toronto Film Festival

On Friday, September 5, I attended the World Premiere of It Might Get Loud at the Toronto International Film Festival. The event took place at the Ryerson Auditorium.

A Q&A session followed the screening. Participating were (L to R) Jack White, Jimmy Page, The Edge, producers Thomas Tull and Lesley Chilcott, and director Davis Guggenheim.

Posted by phileysmiley at 02:56 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

Back home from the Toronto Film Festival

The 33rd edition of the Toronto International Film Festival officially comes to a close today and I've just returned back home in Philadelphia. Impressive films among the final five I saw following my last article included a wonderful coming-of-age film from Taiwan, Winds of September, and the World Premiere of the highly anticipated and very controversial Fifty Dead Men Walking, based on the true story of IRA infiltrator Martin McGartland during "the Troubles" which plagued Northern Ireland in the 1980s.

Overall, the experience ended on a positive note. The first few days were a bit disappointing, as I awaited those "wow" films which make these festivals worth the trip. There wasn't much to (literally) write home about. That all changed midweek when, as I reported earlier, I began seeing one great film after another. By the end of the festival I came away feeling that a few gems will emerge from Toronto 2008 and stand among the best I've seen in the past few years.

While I had precious little time to blog while in Toronto, let alone post the hundreds of pictures and videos I shot, rest assured that in the coming days I'll be selecting and reviewing my Top Picks as well as the aforementioned visual material. First priority is to upload the entire six-minute Q&A with Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White following the World Premiere of It Might Get Loud. Stand by for that.

Posted by phileysmiley at 01:41 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 10, 2008

The 2008 Toronto Film Festival kicks into high gear

4:35 PM

My experience here at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival kicked into high gear the past couple of days. The last time we chatted I was on my way to see Dioses. That was Sunday night. Since then I caught four films on Monday, Tuesday was another five-film day, and I just returned from the first of three films today -- that makes 21 and means there are just four films to go before I head back home.

Up until Monday, the experience had been slightly disappointing. I was waiting for some fives. You see, I have a rough five point scale which helps me track which films I'll eventually choose as Top Picks for which I'll write reviews. A five means I can't wait to buy the DVD, four means I'd see it again, three means I'd recommend it to others, two means I was disappointed and really don't recommend it, and one means you should stay away from this movie at all costs.

Fortunately there haven't been any ones, and Burn After Reading, which I wrote about earlier, has been the only film I rated a two. There have been several threes and fours. But it's the fives that excite me, and they're finally showing up.

I actually just saw three films in a row which I gave top ratings to: Pride and Glory, Lymelife, and Adoration. Also looking good are Acolytes, Patrik, Age 1.5 (one of the big audience favorites so far), and a couple of films I mentioned earlier. Until I get a chance to write about them in depth, please check the links for synopses, casts, directors, and other details.

Most of these films don't have distribution yet -- these were almost all World Premieres and had never been seen before -- but a few do. The rest will get picked up here or after the festival, I'm sure, and it's likely you'll be able to see all these films at a theater near you in the next year or so. In the meantime, they'll likely show up at other festivals and some of you may have the opportunity to enjoy them as much as I have. Still a bunch more to see, though...

Posted by phileysmiley at 04:59 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 07, 2008

9 down, 16 to go here at the Toronto Film Festival

7:14 PM

I've seen seven more films since we last spoke early yesterday morning, so you can imagine why there's been a slight gap on this blog. Five yesterday, two so far today, and another in about an hour so I haven't had nearly as much time as I'd hoped to report on the goings-on here. Needless to say, Toronto 2008 is shaping up to be another winner.

There was at least one big disappointment yesterday. While I never expected Burn After Reading to equal the Coen Brothers' No Country For Old Men, which debuted here last year, I certainly had high hopes for it. It was definitely one of this festival's hottest tickets. But if Focus Features was hoping for a bounce for the film's Friday theatrical opening based on buzz out of Toronto I'm not sure they're going to get it. But, heck, how could any film live up to the hype that comes with being the defending Academy Award winners' next film? I wouldn't call it Oscar-worthy but the starpower will certainly get butts into the seats. It's a nice popcorn movie.

John Stockwell's Middle of Nowhere and Deadgirl, billed as "this year's Mandy Lane," definitely lived up to my expectations. I'll have more to say about those films as time allows.

But the one thing I live for (at festivals, at any rate) is a film which exceeds my expectations. And I already had pretty high ones going into Krabat as it is, being the latest from German director Marco Kreutzpaintner. He helmed Trade, one of my favorite festival films of the past two years, so this one was eagerly anticipated. This was a true epic -- think Harry Potter done by Hitchcock. Krabat wowed me, and even though this was the World Premiere, it's one of the few films here which already has distribution -- with 20th Century Fox of Germany. Yup, they own the US rights...go figure. So you can expect to be able to see it sometime soon.

Nine down, 16 to go. Gotta jet.

Posted by phileysmiley at 08:06 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 06, 2008

On the scene at the 2008 Toronto Film Festival

3:35 PM

Hello from Toronto! I'm actually sitting on the Toronto Express shuttle taking me from the airport to my hotel. They actually have power outlets at each seat so that I can blog a bit, bumps and potholes willing. I'll try to report live whenever I can this year as I'll have my laptop with me at all times, as opposed to hoping I have time in my room at the end of the day to sit and write a more formal article.

This is the first year I flew -- I've driven previously. I didn't mind the 10 hour drive that much. But with gas prices being what they are I decided to (literally) wing it. Let's see -- 50 minutes vs. 10 hours. Hmmm...

The flight was actually early arriving in Toronto. Breezed through Customs, got my bag, made the bus in seconds flat.

-------------------------------------

12:16 AM

Before I was rudely interrupted by a dead battery due to a non-functioning power outlet, I was on the bus headed to my hotel. Been there done that. Checked in, literally threw some stuff on the bed and ran right back out so I could pick up my festival materials at the new Festival Office at Toronto Life Square. The good news is, it's within walking distance -- a couple blocks south. The better news, my first film is at the Ryerson Auditorium exactly halfway between here and there. The bad news is, there are long lines snaking around the block at both locations. I ran the risk of missing my first film.

Thanks to the overwhelming kindness and generosity of the Festival Staff, all was accomplished, albeit with much sweat and breathlessness. So...on to the show and my reason for being here.

I just returned from seeing my first two films, both at the Ryerson Auditorium, both World Premieres. Me and Orson Welles is the latest from Richard Linklater (Dazed and Confused, Before Sunrise, Before Sunset, Fast Food Nation). Linklater led a Q&A afterward with stars Claire Danes, Zac Efron, and Christian McKay. Danes had a few My So-Called Life fans in the audience ("wow, I was only 13," Danes protested) and even the staid film festival crowd was broken up by squeals at the sight of mega-teen-idol Efron. I shot the Q&A and hope to post those pictures as soon as I can. The film is a brilliantly original period piece set in 1937, based on true events in the life of the legendary artist Orson Welles and his brief association with a 15-year-old (17 in the film) aspiring actor.

That was followed up by Davis Guggenheim's It Might Get Loud, a documentary featuring legendary Led Zeppelin guitarist Jimmy Page, U2's The Edge, and Jack White of White Stripes fame. All were present for a lengthy Q&A -- I caught some of it on video.

It's quite rare for any film to receive a standing ovation at a festival, let alone this vaunted one here in Toronto. The audience cheered as though at a rock concert, which was quite appropriate as they were applauding the careers and onscreen performances of Page, The Edge, and White as much as the film itself. More on both films to follow.

Tomorrow is my first full day here, and full it is -- five films, beginning at the historic Elgin Theatre with Burn After Reading. This is one of those Oscar hopefuls which is opening in theatres soon anyway (this Friday, in fact) but many of the cast and crew are expected to attend, including directors Joel and Ethan Coen, along with cast members George Clooney, Frances McDormand, John Malkovich, Tilda Swinton, Richard Jenkins, and Brad Pitt.

Hopefully there will be a break between films to blog. If not, pray for me. It's gonna be a long day.

Posted by phileysmiley at 12:44 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 04, 2008

More selections from my Toronto Film Festival list

As I mentioned yesterday, many of the films I'll be seeing here at the 2008 Toronto International Film Festival will undoubtedly be unexpected surprises from which my Top Picks may emerge. That's been my experience in past years. Just because one recognizes the director or cast or the film has Hollywood hype and Oscar buzz surrounding it doesn't necessarily mean it's a gem, and vice versa. Here are five more hopefuls to add to my list of confirmed films I posted yesterday.

Links take you to the official site, where you can read as much or as little as you like about them. I don't like to post spoilers, and prefer to write about them afterward.

----------------------------------------------------------

Deadgirl -- Directed by Marcel Sarmiento and Gadi Harel, starring Shiloh Fernandez, Noah Segan, Michael Bowen, Candice Accola. Screening in the "Midnight Madness" section, said to be this year's All the Boys Love Mandy Lane. Segan is one of the stars of Still Green, one of my Top Picks of the past few years. Check my blog for pictures of him from the film's screening at the 2007 Fort Lauderdale Film Festival.

Dioses -- Directed by Josué Méndez, starring Maricielo Effio, Sergio Gjurinovic, Anahí de Cárdenas, Edgar Saba, Cristina Salleses. A Peru/Argentina/France/Germany co-production set in Peru. International cinema always makes up a big part of my schedule. Lists of my Top Picks from previous festivals have often been dominated by foreign films. They've been some of my favorites over the past few years.

Uncertainty -- Directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, starring Joseph Gordon-Levitt, Lynn Collins, Assumpta Serna, Olivia Thirlby. Gordon-Levitt attended the 2007 SXSW Film Festival for the World Premiere of his film The Lookout. In addition to my review and pictures from the Q&A, afterparty, and press conference, a short video I put up on YouTube has close to 20,000 views. Olivia Thirlby has been ubiquitous at recent festivals -- she was present for the World Premiere of Snow Angels at the 2007 Sundance Film Festival, again at another screening of the same film in Brooklyn, New York in May, 2007, and then at the World Premiere of Juno at last year's Toronto Film Festival. Reviews of these films and pictures of this fantastic actress are also posted elsewhere on this blog. For indie fans, Gordon-Levitt and Thirlby are icons.

Adoration -- Directed by Atom Egoyan, starring Arsinée Khanjian, Scott Speedman, Rachel Blanchard, Noam Jenkins, Devon Bostick. One of many Canadian entries on my list. Bostick attended the 2006 festival for the World Premiere of Citizen Duane, one of my Top Picks from that year. He's one of the most prolific young actors in Canada.

Linha de Passe -- Directed by Walter Salles and Daniela Thomas, starring Sandra Corveloni, Vinícius de Oliveira, Joião Baldasserini, José Geraldo Rodrigues, Kaíque de Jesus Santos. From Brazil, in Portuguese. Salles also directed 2004's The Motorcycle Diaries.

Posted by phileysmiley at 03:23 PM | Comments (0) | TrackBack

September 01, 2008