Fast Five...dazzling premiere at Asian Pacific Film Festival! Sung Kang & Sandra Oh hit red carpet!

Sandra Oh trots red carpet at Asian Pacific Film Fest!

Sung Kang

I'm in the Mood for Love

When Sung Kang strolled down the red carpet last night for the premiere of "Fast Five" at the Director's Guild of America, he was definitely the man of the hour!

The handsome actor who stars in the just-released "Fast Five" (the sequel to "Fast & Loose) was literally mobbed with well-wishers at the annual Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival.

When a local interviewer (Jocelyn Wang @ 8 Asians) asked Mr. Kang what film made him cry, he was quick with an answer that was a surprise.

"Pippi Longstalking," he beamed.

"That's you're only question," he wondered aloud.

Uh-huh!

When I cornered the charismatic star, he noted he was pretty much content with his career.

In response to my own question about what kind of flick he would like to sign on for in the future, he was quick on the uptake.

"A comedy," he grinned ear-to-ear.

Meanwhile, the wine flowed, the tony guests snacked on delicious finger food, and a posse of up-and-coming stars mingled and chatted each other up to a fever pitch 'til the witching hour when the curtain finally fell on the first night of the Asian Pacific Fest.

Dapper PR man - David Magdael (sporting a well-tailored dark suit with an orchid in the lapel) - excitedly noted that this year's film outing was "bursting at the seams".

"Within two days, both the opening night and closing night galas sold out."

A big draw this year turned out to be the "Fast Five" (starring Paul Walker & Vin Diesel) screening - a flick that was directed by an alumni of the festival - Justin Lin.

"Justin premiered a film nine here years ago," Magdael pointed out for the record.

"We called him up and asked if he would like to premiere "FAST FIVE". He jumped at the opportunity. He has never forgotten his roots."

Mr. Lin recently launched a Short Film Competition which has been well-received also.

The popular web site - "You Offend me You Offend my Family - was set up to launch that altruistic effort.

http://www.YOMYOMF.com

Actually, it was quite a night for the Asian Film Community.

Danny Pudi (NBC's "Community") - who acted one of the MC's at the glittering gala (alongside Parvesh Cheena of NBC's "Outsourced") - gushed that the opening night launch was just "fabulous".

"The Asian community is so together. It has been such a rewarding experience for me to attend," he excitedly blurted out as he greeted a posse of fans in the DGA lobby after the screening.

Obviously, Danny was floating on a cloud, judging by his animated presence as he courted attendees at the glittering celebration.

There was quite a stellar turn-out  - which not only sparked the night - but set the tone of glamour for the week-long event.

The arrival of Archie Kao (CSI) on the red carpet triggered screams from adoring women. 

Yes, he's single, ladies!

Archie whispered in my ear that he will be featured in a big-budget feature later in the year.

Kelvin Han Yee was beaming with pride over the fact he helped raise 1.6 million dollars at a fundraiser for victims of the Japan disaster.

Mr. Yee is starring in an episode of "Hawaii 5-0" (he plays a Police Chief) which will broadcast on May 16th.

Karin Anna Cheung who I interviewed last year when she appeared in "People I've Slept With" looked stunning in a chic understated red cocktail dress.

I also spied (and said hello to) Director Quentin Lee - quite a character in his own right - who flitted among the guests quipping jokes and having a gay old time.

Randall Park - on his way to stardom - is currently appearing in "Supah Ninjahs" on cable.

When I quizzed the outgoing down-to-earth actor about future plans, he confided he was open to meatier roles.

"I would like to be the first Asian romantic leading man."

A tall order to fill, but he has what it takes - the looks, the talent, the "it" quality - to achieve that goal in my estimation.

Parvesh Cheena (who co-hosted the event's premiere) was excited about a voice-over role in an upcoming "Transformer" project.

Gillian Jacobs (NBC "Community") caused quite a stir when she posed for the paparazzi on the electric red carpet, too.

Sandra Oh (Grey's Anatomy)  - was fashionably late (she was the last star to trot in and dash off to catch Fast Five in the packed DGA Theatre) - but no one seemed to be miffed.

Shooting late on set, perhaps?

One of the actresses that stood out was Monique Cumen.

Ms. Curnen (Fast & Furious & The Dark Knight) was effervescent and glowed in her tasteful black cocktail dress.

Actually, it was quite the night for fashion statements all round.

Gowns ran the gamut from floor-length (and body-hugging) to short short - and more-often-than-not - were awash with pretty floral motifs or dazzling mood-uplifting pastels.

The men - a few Asian males actually sported orange "do's" (which jelled well with their trendy hip street-wear) - were sharply turned-out, too.

Some wore black dress slacks or jeans, teamed with ubiquitous t's etched with a smattering of designer logos and off-beat stylish etched prints on their face.

Fedoras and Berets added a European flair to the aura of the night's festivities.

I also was blessed with the opportunity to meet up-and-coming talent which is always a plus for me.

The Director of  - "I'm in the Mood for Love"  (who was in attendance last night) - chatted me up.

Jason Karman's short film - a gay love story - screens on Monday May 2nd at the Festival.

The young actor playing one of the leads is certainly "on the rise" in respect to his eventful career.

Kyle Toy has a charismatic appeal that is sure to take him far in the biz!

A synopsis of the film?

A singing telegram worker meets his ex-boyfriend while having hot pot and learns to embrace his new found bachelorhood through popular song

Catch it if you can, especially in view of the fact it is slated to screen in Toronto in the near future, and has also garnered several awards that single it out as quality film that deserves a following!

By the way, what a blast last night's premiere proved to be!

The Disc Jockey spun danceable upbeat tunes that rocked from the get-go.

I ecstatically blurted out to Mr. Magdael that he really outdid himself this year!

Indeed, tony guests packed the local venue - and lit up the prestigious home for the local chapter of the Director's Guild - as the "faces" of legendary stars peered down from the walls (such as Elizabeth Taylor, Montgomery Clift, Jack Lemmon, Orson Welles, to name-a-few).

Well-heeled waiters in elegant uniforms floated through the crowd offering up a glut of treats - such as delectable chocolate sweets- yummy cream-filled-cake, delicious finger food, and exotic cocktails provided by a host of sponsors (KeKel Vodka, for one).

In particular, a handful of merchants sprinkled around the charged keyed-up foyer, satiated any-and-all pangs of hunger by virtue of mouth-watering offerings that were gulped down in one full swoop.

Hot Stuff Cafe's finger foods were sensational (to say the least).

http://www.hotstuff.cafe.com

"The Candy Chef" was on hand to treat the film fans with hard candy, delightful Asian sweets, and chewy snacks that really hit the spot.

I was asked to inform folks that their specialty is Candy Arrangements.

Check them out!

http://www.TheCandyChef.com

I also got hooked on a coconut ball (on a stick) which was - well - just yummy.

Kudos to THE SWEETER THINGS

http://www.TSTCHOCOLAT.com

I didn't even wake up with a hang-over this morning - in spite of the fact I also caught the Royal Wedding - and did not tuck in until I actually heard a rooster crow in Hollywood at about 5 a.m. (

No kidding, folks!

Tonight, I expect to trot down to the DGA to catch The Wedding Palace (feature) and Saigon Electric.

See 'ya there!

Tickets & Info

www.vconline.org

http://www.thetattler.biz

.


Director Justin Lin premiered Fast Five!



Director Quentin Lee in high spirits!

Ajumma! Are you crazy? Light-hearted spoof on K-drama phenomenon! Hawaii offering...

Recently, a series of shorts shot in Hawaii - by emerging filmmakers - screened locally to a packed house at the DGA.

One of the stand-out projects - in the comedy genre - was a hilarious tale about middle-age women (known as Ajummas) in hot pursuit of a soap star who lands in their backyard on a promotional tour for a popular TV soap.

"Ajumma! Are you crazy?" is well-crafted little gem - which suffers occasionally due to poor production values (the restraints of a low-budget, I expect) - but it’s easy to overlook those ragged edges because at the heart of the robust flick is a joyous celebration of life that resonates - and subsequently - touches.

Director Brent Anbe struck gold when he lined up three of the female leads (actresses Thea Matsuda, Tessie Magaoay & Cari Mizumoto) to camp it up in this amusing little yarn that leaves audiences exiting the theatre with a smile on their face.

The actor inhabiting the role of the studly heartthrob also turns in a finely-tuned performance which signals he’s ripe to be elevated to loftier status in mainstream feature-film releases of a more commercial nature with more widespread appeal.

The handsome Asian actor - Michael Park - has great screen presence!

Although this film is flawed, and appeals to a limited audience, I expect the director to land future projects (no problem) because he has demonstrated in Ajumma! that he is a capable craftsman with oodles of potential.

The entertaining spoof on the "K-drama Phenomenon" and the soap fantasy dream factory is a delightful way to wile away an hour or so.

Director Brent Anbe 

http://www.thetattler.biz

Asian Pacific Film Festival...Boys, you don't have to be Asian to be entertained (or enlightened) by a foreign film!

On Monday, the Asian Pacific Film Festival kicked off its second week of screenings in Little Tokyo after a first-rate run at the prestigious Director's Guild last week.

However, a handful of films will continue to screen at intimate little Theatres @ Laemlle 5 in West Hollywood until Thursday (May 7th).

Since a trek downtown by car in the mean streets of the big bad city is definitely not my cup of tea, I hopped on the red line to catch a music video program that was causing a buzz on the Festival cicuit.

Once on board, I happened to plunk down next to three young boys on their way home from school, but thought nothing of it

A few minutes later, one of the lads noticed my wrist watch, and asked what time it was.

I obliged.

The impromptu action on the part of the grade-schooler triggered a conversation between the four of us.

Personally, I was curious about their studies and the Los Angeles teaching system.

I was surprised to learn that parents in the inner city are allowed to pick-and-choose the learning institution their children will attend each September even if the facility is outside of their immediate neighborhood.

When I was a kid (I must be getting old when I use a tired old phrase like that) students were required to sign up each calendar year for classes nearest the family residence (unless it was a Catholic or Special-learning school).

One of the bolder lads asked me where I was off to after he noticed my eye-catching "press" badge for the Asian Pacific Film Festival.

In respone, I excitedly noted that I was on my way downtown to take in a couple of videos.

"Ever been to the Asian Film Festival," I innocently asked.

"I'm not Asian," one boy quickly responded.

"You don't have to be Asian to attend," I pointed out matter-of-fact.

The silence was so loud it fell with a thud to the floor!

"There are many exciting foreign films being screened from around the world that focus on a myriad of cultures," I added.

"The independent films are not all from Japan or China, 'ya know?"

The comment appeared to stir up a reaction or two beneath the surface.

"Hasn't your teacher ever taken you to a movie on a class outing?"

No, they responded unanimously.

As this juncture, one of the students confessed that their courses basically focused on a mandatory curriculum which consisted of Social Studies, English, and Math.

Suddenly, without warning, two of the boys jumped up at their stop when it was announced, and dashed off into the fray without so much as looking back.

The third boy remained on the Metro vehicle for a few more blocks.

"What do you want to be when you're an adult," I asked.

"A fireman," he replied without hesitation.

"That's a great job, 'cause you'd be helping people and saving lives . You must be very brave, eh?"

He smiled proudly.

But, when he waved good-bye and quickly exited, I was a little overwhelmed by emotion.

Was no one teaching these kids how to create a piece of art from scratch, or even giving them a little incentive to imagine a profession that went beyond the norm or the stereotypical "in-the-box" variety so much touted by society?

Perhaps, if teachers took their students out to a movie or a museum, now and then, they might dream bigger!

If one day excursion inspired a talented visionary child to craft a film that touched the soul or design a piece of architecture that turned out environmentally-friendly, let's say, wouldn't the journey have been worth it?

George Santayana said it best:

"A child educated only at school is an uneducated child."

http://www.julianayrs.com

San Diego Film Festival...seeking film entries!

The San Diego Film Festival is seeking entries!

The annual event - which attracts about 15,000 film buffs each year - was founded in 2002 with the express aim of tossing a spotlight on up-and-coming filmmakers and the best that the world of cinema has to offer.

From its inception, the organizers have been committed to the notion that the best way to enjoy fine films is in a fun, relaxed, and festive environment such as the idyllic picturesque one that is San Diego.

Each year, the Festival hand picks eight-five unique stand-out projects to showcase at the popular Southern California festival.

According to festival Officials, they deliberately mimicked the very best ideas from film fests around the globe, the end result being a celebration of film which guarantees great venues, an eclectic mix of theatre-goers, and a round of upbeat parties sure to appeal to the most discerning party-hearty die-hards!


Festival Date
September 24th - 27th

Deadline for Submisions
Early Deadline: May 1st (2009)
Final Deadline: June 1st (2009)

Info: http://www.sdff.org/filmmakers.htm

http://www.julianayrs.com/

Asian Pacific Film Festival...gala opening to premiere "Children of Invention". Director's Guild April 30th...

Treeless Mountain

Last year, I covered the Asian Pacific Film Festival and it was one of the highlights of the season.

For this reason, I am looking forward to attending the opening night gala on April 30th (Thursday) at the Director's Guild.

The eclectic round of offerings this year include the well-crafted - "Children of Invention" - which will kick off a week of shorts, documentaries, and feature-length films.

Tickets are also being quickly snapped up for a handful of centerpiece screenings, too.

Treeless Mountain (May 2nd)

This touching film was directed by director - So Yong Kim - who has won coveted prizes work that has been well-received at past festivals.

Told through the view of six-year-old Jin, the movie is a haunting celluloid rendering.

"A beautiful story about childhood innocence and human endurance," according to the Festival organizers.

The director will be present for a Q & A after the screening.

Kazuo Hara: Book Tour (May 5th)

On the occasion of his West Coast book tour, renowned Japanese auteur Kazuo Hara will appear at the DGA to screen his controversial documentary:

"THE EMPEROR’S NAKED ARMY MARCHES"

This fascinating film follows 62-year-old veteran Kenzo Okuzaki in a lonely crusade to uncover the truth about the mysterious deaths of those who served with him in World War II and the war crimes perpetrated by Japan.

Filmmaker Kazuo Hara will be present to discuss the making of this thought-provoking film as well as his memoir (Camera Obtusa: Hara Kazuo’s Action Documentary Method) which is available in print now.

A book-signing is scheduled, so get ready to queue up!

This program was made possible with the assistance of Kaya Press and Tidepoint Pictures.

Networking Session (May 2nd)

At the stylish Network Lounge at the Asian Pacific Film Festival this year - furnished by Toyota - there will be an opportunity to mix & mingle with network representatives and learn about a career in TV during a six-hour daytime event.

Representatives from CBS, Fox, and NBC are slated to talk to festival-goers about exciting job opportunities in the television field.

KODAK PRESENTS "STOP BY. SHOOT FILM" (May 3rd)

In this two-hour workshop, film buffs will be shown how easy and fun it is to use motion picture film.

There will be an opportunity to chat up a top cinematographer, handle a 16mm camera and film, and shoot an independent movie!

Following the event, a DVD of each film enthusiast (and their project) will be gifted for a precious keepsake.

Gratis!

However, space is limited. So, sign up early.

Kodak is the sponsor for this unique industry event.

As usual, there will be a myriad of short films throughout the festival. Here is a sampling:

THE HUMBERVILLE POETRY SLAM (USA 2008)

A wannabe poet organizes a small-town poetry slam to build a team for a National Poetry Slam & finds his own talent challenged by homegrown local bards.

Dir.: Emily Chang, Daniel De Lorenzo; Video; 17 mins, Color, Narrative, English

BITE ME (USA, 2008)

Drake, a lonely accountant who doesn't have much luck with the ladies, tries his hand at Last-Minute-Mate Speed Dating.

As he wades through the pool of potential dates, Drake realizes that dating doesn't just suck, it bites.

Dir.: Jason Fong Video, 13 mins, Color, Narrative, English

TWO TRUE (Hong Kong, 2008-2009)

Two brothers — one, a London-schooled twenty-something due and the other an ebullient office worker impressed with his own overblown romantic prowess — come to an understanding about each other while on a lunch break.

Dir.: Wesley Chan Video, 5 mins, Color, Narrative, in English & Cantonese

WAH WAH (USA, 2008)

A young suburbanite learns the hard way the lessons of being water-wise in California.

Dir.: Ronald San Agustin Video, 8 mins, Color, Narrative, English

THE BALLAD OF MARCO REY (USA, 2009)

Marco Rey, a wildly popular singing sensation, suddenly withdraws from the scene with no apparent explanation. On the eve of his comeback, an entertainment reporter tries to find out the real truth behind Marco Rey.

Dir.: James Herr Video, 15 mins, Color, Narrative, English

BLUEBERRY (USA, 2009)

A lonely man with a little money seeks the companionship of a $73 hooker.

Hilarity ensues with he gets exactly what he asked for.

Dir.: David Lee Video, 5 mins, Color, Narrative, English

THE BOOK OF TOMORROW (USA, 2009)

A young boy escapes into the printed exploits of a comic book super hero as a means of escaping the realities of his existence in a dysfunctional suburban household. Strange things soon happen.

Dir.: David Yohe Video, 17 mins, Color, Narrative, English

That's it for now, folks! See 'ya there...

Info: http://www.vconline.org/festival/index.cfm

http://www.julianayrs.com

Newport Beach Film Festival...rivals that glittering affair on the Riviera! Exotic locale adds lustre to filmmaking scene...

Amid tall palms that swayed in the breeze and a picturesque locale that rivals any on the romantic Riviera, the Newport Beach Film Festival launched an opening night gala last night that glittered under a breathtaking night sky.

"Lymelife" - a hilarious, violent and sometimes tragic look at family dynamics - kicked off the Festival with an enthusiastic packed house.

The Festival is back with a vengeance this year with a roster of thought-provoking insightful celluloid offerings sure to appeal to a myriad of discerning tastes!

Highlights this week include "An Evening of Film & Fun" set to Music which is being touted as a Gala Reception & Concert with Oscar Nominated Film composer Marc Shalman (Beaches, Sleepless in Seattle, When Harry met Sally, Hairspray, Sleepless in Seattlke, and The Wedding Planner) which I intend to take in tonight.

*Friday, April 24th @ 7 PM in the Palm Garden at the Island Hotel Newport Beach.

On Wednesday (April 29th) there will be an evening of "Disney Rarities" with Oscar Nominated Film Producer Don Hahn & Disney Creative Director David Bossert at the Lido Theatre.

The enchanting presentation features a collection of rarely seen Disney Animated treasures.

There will be a tribute to John Wayne on Saturday, April 25th, by virtue of a screening of - She Wore a Yellow Ribbon - one of his classic films which is sure to be a crowd-pleaser for film buffs.

Over the next week (April 26th thu April 29th) there will also be dramatic spotlights on Latino, Asian, French, Irish, Swedish, Italian, and Australian films.

And, of course, what would any Film Festival be without a collection of scintillating shorts to wow audiences in-between the centerpiece presentations sprinkled throughout the sparkling Festival scene.

The Newport Beach Festival has a series of themed shorts at reasonable ticket prices to take in; for example, Criminal Shorts, Shorts for Shorties, Tween Shorts, and so forth and so on.

Check the schedule for a comprehensive list (and showtimes) since there are too many to post here.

Closing night (April 30th) there will be a screening of - "500 Days of Summer" - an offbeat romantic comedy about a woman who doesn't believe true love exists, and the young man who falls for her.

Directly after the screening, there will be glittering closing night Gala party in the Via Lido Courtyard.

Info: http://newportbeachfilmfest.com/

http://www.julianayrs.com

Tribeca Film Festival...kicks off April 22nd in NYC! Woody Allen premieres...

Wednesday (April 22nd) amid a lot of fanfare, the Tribeca Film Festival kicks off with the glitzy world premiere of Woody Allen's "Whatever Works".



The highly-anticipated comedy is the first film the quirky film director has shot in Manhattan since 2004.



"Whatever Works" was written & directed by Allen and stars character actor Larry David (Curb Your Enthusiasm), Evan Rachel Wood (The Wrestler), Patricia Clarkson (Vicky Cristina Barcelona), and Ed Begley Jr.(Pineapple Express).



Recently, festival co-founder Jane Rosenthal gushed about how excited she was to launch Allen's new pic at Tribeca.



"I fell in love with New York through Woody Allen’s movies and I am excited we are opening this year’s Festival with Whatever Works."



According to Rosenthal, the stand-out feature is a uniquely funny addition to the celebrated director's body of work.



Allen, the die-hard New Yorker, enthused that it was a lovely idea to show his film in al festival in his own hometown.



"Very exciting," he beamed.



Sony Pictures classics is planning a June 19th release date if you miss the opening.



Tribeca promises to be the entertaining, thought-provoking fest, it has proven to be over the past few years since it first started up.



The roster of projects is far-reaching, too, and includes:

Art Themed Films

Asian Themed Films

ESPN/Tribeca Sports Film Festival Films

Hispanic/Latino Themed Films

Middle Eastern Themed Films

Jewish Themed Films

Music Themed Films

Politically Themed Films

Women Themed Films

Tribeca will close out the festival with "My Life in Ruins" which was directed by Donald Petrie and written by Mike Reiss.



The Fox Searchlight release stars Nia Vardalos, Richard Dreyfuss, María Ádanez, Sheila Bernette, María Botto, Rachel Dratch, Alexis Georgoulis, Ralph Nossek, Bernice Stegers, and Harland Williams.



Nia Vardalos, the writer and star of "My Big Fat Greek Wedding", has turned out a hilarious uplifting comedy about her character's lost kefi (Greek for "mojo"), according to Festival organizers.



Discouraged by her lack of direction in life, she works as a travel guide, leading a rag-tag group of tourists as she tries to show them the beauty of her native Greece while waiting to land her dream job.



Opening their eyes to an exotic foreign land, she too begins to see things in new ways - finding her kefi - and possibly love in the process.



Several of the cast members will attend the special screening to be held at the BMCC TPAC in lower Manhattan on Saturday May 2nd.



The new release is slated for unveiling in Theatres nationwide on June 5, 2009.



Another festival treat will be the screening of an actual work-in-progress which focuses on the high-profile Pop Singer Bon Jovi.



Directed by filmmaker and photographer Phil Griffin and produced by Academy-Award and Emmy-winning producers @radical.media, the documentary was filmed on the road backstage with the band during their 2008 Lost Highway World Tour.



The behind-the-scenes doc also features an up-close and personal glimpse at two sold-out frenzied concerts at Madison Square Gardens which wowed fans at the end of the celebrated tour.



"Throughout the process of working with Bon Jovi, I was amazed at the candor and humility Jon and his band showed me,” said director Phil Griffin.



"The result is not a neatly wrapped up bundle of staged interviews and musical interludes, but rather a series of open and sometimes difficult conversations, explored against a backdrop of music spanning 25 years. It is a film about the peace of Tico, the complexity of Richie, the drive of Jon and the brutal honesty of Dave. It is their willingness to share their stories that gives us what I hope is a very human story - that humanity is what I believe has seen this band stand the test of time."



Festival organizers are wildly enthusiastic about the upcoming screening, too.



"This compelling documentary gives you a glimpse behind the scenes of one of the great rock bands and unveils how they have stayed on top for the past 25 years. Jon has been a stalwart supporter and remarkable friend to our Festival, making it incredibly exciting to premiere the Bon Jovi story at Tribeca," according to a press release.



In addition to movie debuts (and red carpet extravaganzas) there will be a number of panel discussions, including conversations with Spike Lee, Barry Levinson, Steven Soderbergh, Kirby Dick, and Alex Gibney.



Tribeca will also present a much-anticipated line-up of short films.



This year’s Festival shorts are a culmination of works from across the globe, including Cuba, Brazil, Norway, Italy, South Korea and Australia.



The Festival received 2463 short film submissions this year - of which - 46 were selected to be presented in six thematic programs.



The voices behind these works range from first-time to veteran filmmakers that include animators, graphic artists and actors taking the helm behind the camera. Collectively, through captivating narratives and gripping documentaries, they tell stories about life’s lessons drawn from dreams, desires and the coming-of-age experience.



"The films in this year’s program represent a strong showcase in the craft of short filmmaking. It's exciting that as digital content platforms continue to emerge, short films are accessible to, and being watched by an increasingly larger audience.” said Maggie Kim, Tribeca Film Festival shorts programmer.



Among the highlights is a short narrative written and directed by Tom Everett Scott, as well as a documentary narrated by Richard Gere.

Directors making return visits to the Festival include Jason DaSilva, Brian Durnin, PaulaGaitan, Ken Jacobs, and Mark Street.



Robert De Niro, Jane Rosenthal and Craig Hatkoff founded the Tribeca Film Festival in 2001 following the attacks on the World Trade Center to spur the economic and cultural revitalization of lower Manhattan through an annual celebration of film, music and culture.



The Festival’s mission is to assist filmmakers reach the broadest possible audience, while enabling the international film community and the general public, the opportunity to experience the power of cinema (and promote New York City as a major filmmaking center).



The popular annual festival works under the auspices of Tribeca Enterprises, a diversified multi-platform media company, located in downtown New York City.



The company currently operates a network of branded entertainment businesses including the Tribeca Film Festival and Tribeca Cinemas.



The Company's mission is to provide artists with unique platforms to expand the audience for their works and to broaden the access point for consumers to experience independent film and media.



Since its founding, the Festival has attracted over two million attendees from the US and abroad and has generated more than $425 million in economic activity for New York City.

Info: http://www.tribecafilmfestival.org

Info: 1-212-941-2400

http://www.julianayrs.com

AFI Dallas...overbooked seats, mistreatment of Festival Volunteers, and John Wildman's rude & insulting staff!

AFI Dallas just celebrated its third illustrious year on the Festival circuit.

Already, the AFI chapter out of the Lone Star State, has proven to be a creative (and marketing) force to reckon with.

For example, when the festival wrapped last year, ticket sales were tallied at a whopping $100,000.00.

But, get this!

Before AFI Dallas even swung open its screening doors at the two venues playing host this year (NorthPark & Magnolia Theatres) the box office had already managed to rustle up the staggering sum of $100,000.00 plus in sales receipts.

Understandably, AFI Dallas is currently going through growing pains, especially in respect to the booking process.

For example, shortly after I left the red carpet one evening, two film buffs dashed up and angrily waved a couple of tickets in my face.

"Sir, this festival is selling seats that aren't any good," he hollered with a tinge of frustration in his voice.

Say what?

Apparently, the filmgoer and his girlfriend purchased two tickets for "Gigantic" at Victory Park, then proceeded to stand in line with all the other excited ticket-holders the night of the much-anticipated screening.

After about thirty minutes later, they were turned away without explanation (along with about thirty other disgruntled movie buffs in the same situation).

"It's not the money," he lamented.

"My girlfriend and I made the plans for the date earlier in the week and intended to make a romantic night of it with dinner and everything."

Then, he made an important observation.

"There was no notice on the ticket that said we might not get a seat. And, they didn't inform us that even if we stood in line, we might not get in."

Boy, was he pi**ed!

I noted for the record that I was in their corner all the way.

In retrospect, it appears that a pass-holder (an individual who buys a pass for access to all films during the course of the AFI Festival for a set fee), Festival big-wig, or a member of the Press was given priority in spite of the fact the young couple paid well-in-advance with cash in hand.

That stinks!

In addition, a handful of volunteers who were promised passes to a couple of films in exchange for their services throughout the day, found themselves SOL on occasion, too.

Frankly, in my opinion, those tickets should have been honored along with the rest.

If not, the least the Festival could do is promise cash in exchange for the face value of the ticket, to ensure volunteers are properly compensated for their generous contribution to the success of the Festival.

Don't you agree?

Notwithstanding those glaring irregularities which need a quick fix, a couple of John Wildman's staff in the publicity department were not only incompetent (and prone to tell lies), but rude and insulting to members of the press, on occasion, as well.

For instance, although I received an invitation to attend a noon-hour event sponsored by the YMCA for underprivileged kids, details about the red-carpet event were not forthcoming from Tanya Wright (who was in charge of organizing the press).

On the night prior to the outing for the young ones, I hadn't received specific details to facilitate coverage of the event, so I queried Miss Wright about the schedule for the next day in person at the Magnolia venue.

"I'm organizing that now," she excitedly chirped, "And, will send out the information tonight."

When the info failed to arrive by 9 a.m. in the morning, I zipped off an e-mail to Wright with a request for the info.

In a response e-mail, which arrived about an hour later, John Wildman's right-hand woman suddenly did an astonishing about-face.

"There isn't any event scheduled for the lunch hour," she insisted in her curt reply.

At this juncture, I dredged up the e-mail invite from the AFI mailbox, and inserted the information into a follow-up communication that essentially noted for the record that she was obviously mistaken.

Within minutes (and shortly after firing off an e-mail to John Wildman about the discrepancies) Ms. Wright e-mailed back.

"Okay. There is a function. You are welcome to attend. Show up on the red carpet at 11:45. See you there."

Duh!

I arrived at NorthPark just in the nick of time, as hundreds of kids bounced off bright yellow busses, and on to the red carpet for photo ops with popular actor Patrick Warburton.

When Ms. Wright spied me taking notes, a curious look crept across her face.

Then, she dashed over and made an odd comment in view of the aforementioned facts.

"Oh, you came!"

"Of course," I replied sternly, "I was invited."

After the fun-filled event wound down, and the kids were happily seated in the theatre munching on snacks, I proceeded to check my e-mail.

In one hasty communication, John Wildman tried to gloss over the obvious, and took a position in which he sought to exonerate himself and Miss Wright of any blame for the alleged misunderstanding.

In so many words, Wildman asserted that the info on the event was not forthcoming because he and Miss Wright were under the impression I would probably not be interested in attending an event crawling with hundreds of kids (!).

Then, he took a dishonest leap, and made a wild statement that since the Tattler wasn't the kind of publication that was interested in news items pertaining to school kids, that AFI Dallas elected not to follow through and provide the information promised.

Mr. Wildman obviously never reads the Tattler.

If he did, he'd know that I have penned stories on Kids First, for instance, an organization that sifts through films in search of ones that meet the right set of criteria for the youth market.

In addition, I have reported on workshops for children that are held from time to time at the David Geffen Playhouse in Westwood.

Likewise, I have written posts on children's books, the dangers of lead-poisoning in toys, face-painting and costume-making at the Grove mall, and so forth and so on.

I always endeavour to reach out to the community, no matter what the age group!

In a follow-up e-mail, I pointed out that I was disappointed that Wright would lie to me to cover up her shortcomings and save face.

That evening, Miss Wright (obviously stung by the remarks I made to John Wildman earlier in the day) continued with her lies and deception.

Although I informed her that I did not wish to discuss the matter further - after all, she was causing a scene on the red carpet in front of other journalists, the paparazzi, and Festival-goers - she became belligerent.

In a burst of rage, she retorted angrily:

"No wonder no one likes you!"

I was shocked by her unwarranted mean-spirited remark which was totally unprofessional.

In fact, her wild assertions were not true!

Almost daily, I have received complimentary remarks in response to a myriad of posts - and, likewise, regularly receive a raft of e-mail communications in which fans note how much they do, in fact, like me.

Needless to say, I didn't attend AFI Dallas to win a popularity contest.

A few minutes later, I happened to bump into John Wildman on the red carpet.

Holy mac!

He refused to believe that his self-indulgent assistant uttered the nasty comment.

"She didn't say that," he angrily asserted.

Fortunately, a journalist who was present when Miss Wright aimed the ugly slur at me, happened to stroll by at that precise moment.

So, I grabbed his arm and pulled him Wildman's way - at which point - he confirmed what had transpired earlier.

"I'll talk to her," he promised.

I guess he followed through, because on the heels of the incident, I began to also experience problems with Miss White's associate (Michael Devous).

Was he retaliating against me because of my run-in with Tanya Wright?

Although John Wildman assured me details for two big gala events would be forthcoming in an hour or so from the desk of Mr. Devous, no confirmation on time schedules and locations were sent out.

Finally, I drafted an e-mail to Mr. Devous in which I noted for the record, that for some inexplicable reason the information was not forthcoming.

Mr. Devous reacted like a flippant Queen.

In an communication fired off a few seconds later, Devous "pasted" a page from the dictionary which spelled out the precise meaning of the word "inexplicable".

Then, the catty little man had the gall to infer that the e-mail address on file for me (which I provided weeks ago) was probably the reason for the mix-up in question.

In sum, Devous tried to thrust the blame on me by alleging that I gave him an incorrect e-mail address, which accounted for the failure of information to arrive safely in my mail box.

What a load of hogwash!

The e-mail address he was referring to was - in fact - correct.

If the bombastic little sh** had a higher IQ, he would have surely noticed that the e-mail address he was referring to "forwarded to" my yahoo account.

In a nutshell, the two e-mail accounts were merged together, so there would be no need to check both accounts individually each day.

Indeed, every e-mail Mr. Devous sent out since we were first in touch weeks ago not only arrived without incident, but was promptly responded to.

How do I know?

I forwarded all the e-mails to myself so there would be copies on file.

Of course, I am not surprised by the bit**y conduct of Mr. Devous - especially after witnessing his personality on the loose in the AFI Lounge now and then during the course of the fest.

For example, on two specific occasions I was witness to, the PR flunky was drunk and disorderly in front of a roomful of celebrated festival guests, members of the press, and AFI staff.

Yup, the swirling dervish made a total a** of himself!

Time to clean house, Mr. Wildman!

http://www.julianayrs.com

13th Annual Arab Film Festival...a call for filmmaker entries!

The Arab Film Festival is now accepting submissions for the 13th Annual Arab Film Festival to be held in the San Francisco Bay Area and in Los Angeles in October 2009.

The AFF is the oldest and largest annual showcase of works by independent Arab filmmakers that provide insightful and innovative perspectives on Arab culture, art, history and politics.

Founded in 1996, the AFF has grown into an important bridge between the Arab world, Arab-American communities, and the broader American public.

Festival organizers note that they accept submissions of all genres; features, documentaries, experimental works, short films, animations and beyond.

While there is no submission fee, officials strongly encourage filmmakers to submit their entries early.

The deadline for submitting is April 15th, 2009.

Noor Awards (2009)

The Noor Awards, derived from the Arabic word for "light," will celebrate filmmakers whose enlightening and original works distinguish themselves in their category.

A pre-screening committee will select four finalists in each category after viewing all the films participating in (selected to be part of) the festival's competition.

A five-member jury made up of distinguished members of the film and academic communities will select the outstanding film and award a cash prize to a director in the following categories:

Best Narrative Feature: 2000 USD
Best Documentary Feature: 2000 USD
Best Narrative Short: 500 USD
Best Documentary Short: 500 USD

Filmmakers will not be automatically entered into this competition.

Interested artists should note in their submission that they would like the Noor Awards judging panel to consider their project for the prize.

Please note that to be eligible for the 2009 Noor Awards, the film must have been completed after January 1st 2007, and never screened in San Francisco or Los Angeles.

To be considered as a Short, a film cannot be longer than 45 minutes.

Entry Requirements

Each submission requires the following:

1. A preview copy of the film in either DVD or VHS format.
2. Completed entry form.
3. 2 stills & 1 photo of the director (if digital, 300 dpi minimum)
4. Press and marketing materials if available.

A submission does not guarantee exhibition of the film in the 2009 Arab Film Festival.

The Festival does not pay screening fees for submitted films either.

Submission Address

Arab Film Festival
Submissions Department
300 Brannan Street, Suite 508
San Francisco CA 94107

Preview Format

Entries must be submitted on DVD (region 0 or 1).
Artists are asked to test their consumer-burned DVD on several makes and models of players before sending it as a precaution.
A VHS NTSC tape may be included in the submission packet as backup.

Subtitled Entries

All non-English language entries must have English subtitles for preview and for Festival presentation.
Exceptions may be made for entries with no dialogue.

Exhibition

Official Selections will be shown during the Festival in their origin or video format whenever possible.
AFF only screens works available on 35mm, Beta SP, DVCAM, miniDV.
The Festival does not accept films in DigiBeta format.

Shipping Information

Ship your cassette or DVD in a bubble-pack envelope.
A fiber pack envelope can cause damage to tapes and decks.

Costs

All shipping costs to and from Festival must be borne by the sender.
All tapes & DVDs require a title, a shipper's name & return shipping address.

International Entries

The Festival committee recommends that all entries from outside the U.S. be sent by Air Mail Registered or by a parcel or express service.
Entries shipped via air freight can not be accepted if customs and delivery fees have not been prepaid by the filmmakers.

Return of Entries

Preview copies submitted become property of the Festival committee and will not be returned.
Filmmakers retain all rights to their submitted films, however.

http://www.julianayrs.com

Santa Monica International Film Festival...short films catch the spotlight. A few winners!

Art of Stalking...


The organizers for the Santa Monica International Film Festival placed a big spotlight on short films this year.

Understandably.

After all, it is from this pool of fresh talent that emerging filmmakers often make their first mark on the festival circuit.

Unfortunately, the offerings often tend to be a bit "uneven" in quality for a number of reasons.

For starters, first-time-out filmmakers often do not have the skills, training, or experience under their belt, to execute their ideas to their full potential.

Notwithstanding, budget constraints often limit the filmmaker's ability to realize their vision on celluloid, as well.

At the Santa Monica International Film Festival this past weekend - in the picturesque community by the sea - a handful of up-and-coming directors managed to meet the challenges head on much to the delight of theatregoers who took in their eclectic mix of shorts.

On the Saturday afternoon program - "A Days' Work" - (which was ably directed by newcomer Edward Feldman) was a particular stand out.

In part, this was due to the fact Feldman started off with an intelligent script.

The insightful director was smart when it came to logistics, as well.

In advance of the shooting schedule, he carefully plotted his shots - for instance - before jetting off to Prague to capture the ideas on film.

The set-ups were impressive, too; not run-of-the-mill. And, the cinematography - itself - was stunning.


A second short came about in a novel way.

The director (Sherwin Shilati) stepped out of the shower one day with the title for a proposed project swimming in his noggin.

"I kicked Luis Guzman in the face," he quipped to himself a couple of times.

"Great title for a film."

Then, he proceeded to contact Luis Guzman's agent to see if the actor was available. He was. So, the project took off full-steam from there.

The Shilati script exploits the current phenomenon of social hubs like myspace.

In this humorous short - the lead character tries to bolster his popularity on the Internet - by alleging that he "kicked" Luis Guzman in the face.

It works.

A curious scenario unfolds, thereafter, which results in a round of quirky entertainment for the duration.

The director uses a light lens and a few deft touches to buoy the project up.

But, unfortunately, the ending falls flat.

However, "Kicked" was a great vehicle to showcase the director's potential; consequently, I expect that the young auteur will be turning out a bona fide hit sometime in the future.

Sherman took Cultural Studies at USC - and laughingly noted at the Question and Answer session after the screening - that normally he is a "suit" in the industry.

For those of you not familiar with the term, it generally means the brains or business side of the business.

"This project represents my alter ego," he chuckled.

While we're on the subject of "ego", one young man appeared to have a lot of it.

The actor for "Choke. Kick. Girl." boasted on stage that - in addition to inhabiting the lead role in the project - he was Executive Producer of the short.

Ah, youth!

Why is it that young filmmakers are so focused on "labels" and flaunting their "supposed" status in the biz?

Frankly, it doesn't matter if you acted in, directed, and/or produced the project.

What ends up on the screen - whether you deliver or not - is what matters most.

In this instance, the young artist would have been wise to have left the producing to another more qualified individual.

Personally, I found the script a bit convoluted. And, confusing.

The production values - particularly the lighting - left a lot to be desired, too.

At times I felt like I was screening an industrial film for students!

However, the actor did have a flair for comedy. So, I would recommend that he focus on his on-camera schtick, and leave the rest of the production chores to experienced professionals in the future.

"Fun on Earth" - a tale about a student who bumps into a pretty young woman who turns out to be an alien from a "water planet" - also showed a lot of potential.

Although Sterling Jones played the male lead a little too "Clark Kent"-like in style, I expect he'll land a promising role or two that may send him on his way in the acting community.

Alexi Wasser (who currently appears in "Dirt" on a cable network) had a great on-camera presence which caused me to sit up in my comfy seat and take notice.

"She's actually quite funny," harped the director.

"She should be doing comedy."

The director (a Jesse Gordon production) noted he was working on a feature-length version of the scripted idea. I expect if the articulate filmmaker gets the financing, or a green light at a studio, that the project will fair well.

Responses to questions posed by the audience after the screening of the shorts, proved to be quite informative and enlightening as well.

In the Martin Luther King Auditorium at the Santa Monica Library, the young hopefuls noted - for the most part - how tough it was getting their projects off the ground due to financing.


Shorts do not traditionally make money, so it is a difficult row to hoe.

Why bother?



Since a strip of film from this genre is capable of generating buzz in the business - and oftentimes capable of spring-boarding a talented few into the spotlight - every bold-faced effort is made to obtain financing to launch a scripted idea.

"We owe a lot of favors now," Sherman chortled.

In addition to using-up precious favors, a couple of producers also stumbled on creative ways out of their financial dilemmas.

The director for "The Quickie", for instance, signed - what he referred to as - a creative contract.

In exchange for financing on his short, he agreed to hand-off fifty percent of his earnings from his first paid job in the biz.

Ah, talk about selling one's soul to the devil!

Well, the other option is an American Express Platinum card, I guess.

In the second program the following day, another round of celluloid gems impressed upon me how much original talent there is out there vying for the big brass ring.

"Distraxtion" - an animated short - was delightful and wowed the audience, for instance.

"The Art of Stalking" (a thesis film for Amitabh Klemm) was a bit too pedestrian for my aesthetic taste - but was a favorite with the audience - nonetheless.

In sum, the short film experience at the Santa Monica Film Festival was entertaining, full of surprises - and ultimately - showed great promise for emerging young talent in the short film arena.

Hats off to the festival officials for showcasing these talented filmmakers!

Alexi Wasser prepares for "Fun on Earth"...

Sterling Jones sets sights on Alien Valley Girl...

Guinness Ad..."Hands", short film!