“The Straight Story” begins like many other David Lynch films. First with stars flickering in the night. Then shots of a small town somewhere in America’s Midwest — green lawns and red brick buildings with industrial fixtures filling the background. Angelo Badalamenti’s mournful, string-laden score draws us in, emphasizing the quaintness of the visuals, while also suggesting a deeper pain at the core of this place. But instead of the psycho-sexual nightmares discovered in “Blue Velvet” and “Lost Highway” or the metaphysical crises faced in “The Elephant Man” and “Twin Peaks,” what we find instead is — as the title suggests — a very straightforward story, albeit one that’s emotional heft is far beyond words spoken and narrative unfurled.
From “Eraserhead” to “Twin Peaks: The Return,” and perhaps even earlier with his short films, Lynch’s oeuvre has always been consumed with love’s unwieldy power, not just in the...
From “Eraserhead” to “Twin Peaks: The Return,” and perhaps even earlier with his short films, Lynch’s oeuvre has always been consumed with love’s unwieldy power, not just in the...
- 1/19/2025
- by Harrison Richlin
- Indiewire
The Academy picked the right year to give an Honorary Oscar to film editor Carol Littleton. They’re saluting a female editor at a time when three of the year’s major awards contenders —“Killers of the Flower Moon,” “Oppenheimer” and “Maestro” — are edited by Thelma Schoonmaker, Jennifer Lame and Michelle Tesoro, respectively, and when other women in the mix include Hilda Rasula for “American Fiction,” Victoria Boydell for “Saltburn,” Sarah Flack for “Priscilla” and co-editors Claire Simpson (with Sam Restivo) for “Napoleon” and Oona Flaherty (with Nick Moore) for “Are You There, God? It’s Me, Margaret.”
“The Editors Guild has about 2,900 picture editors, and 764 women,” said Littleton, a one-time president of that guild. “That’s about a fourth. So isn’t it interesting that these three big prestigious films, ‘Oppenheimer,’ and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ and ‘Maestro,’ are edited by women?”
If all three are nominated for Oscars...
“The Editors Guild has about 2,900 picture editors, and 764 women,” said Littleton, a one-time president of that guild. “That’s about a fourth. So isn’t it interesting that these three big prestigious films, ‘Oppenheimer,’ and ‘Killers of the Flower Moon’ and ‘Maestro,’ are edited by women?”
If all three are nominated for Oscars...
- 12/29/2023
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Filmmaker David Lynch and his fourth wife, actress Emily Stofle, have filed for divorce after 14 years of marriage.
They met while shooting his 2006 film, Inland Empire. They married in February 2009, two years after his divorce with fellow director Mary Sweeney.
Previous to Sweeny, Lynch was married to Peggy Lunch from 1967 to 1974. Later, he married Mary Fisk, and they were married from 1977 to 1987.
Stofle was also in Lynch’s limited series Peaks: The Return in 2017.
The 45-year-old actress initiated the divorce and made several demands on her petition.
The split has reportedly not been amicable, as Stofle has asked the court to grant sole legal and physical custody of their 11-year-old daughter, Lula Lynch.
She is agreeable with Lynch having visitation rights to their daughter.
She wants Lynch to cover the cost of her attorneys’ fees and to pay her spousal support.
He has three other children from his previous marriages: Jennifer Lynch,...
They met while shooting his 2006 film, Inland Empire. They married in February 2009, two years after his divorce with fellow director Mary Sweeney.
Previous to Sweeny, Lynch was married to Peggy Lunch from 1967 to 1974. Later, he married Mary Fisk, and they were married from 1977 to 1987.
Stofle was also in Lynch’s limited series Peaks: The Return in 2017.
The 45-year-old actress initiated the divorce and made several demands on her petition.
The split has reportedly not been amicable, as Stofle has asked the court to grant sole legal and physical custody of their 11-year-old daughter, Lula Lynch.
She is agreeable with Lynch having visitation rights to their daughter.
She wants Lynch to cover the cost of her attorneys’ fees and to pay her spousal support.
He has three other children from his previous marriages: Jennifer Lynch,...
- 12/14/2023
- by Casey Rivera
- Uinterview
It’s no surprise that filmmaker David Lynch’s fanbase has, for four decades, continually renewed itself among each new generation of cineastes. Something about the strange alchemy of the multidisciplinary Eagle Scout’s sensuous images, earnest perspective and intuitive storytelling perspective is intoxicating, buoyed onscreen by the talents of great creative collaborators like Mary Sweeney, Alan Splet and Angelo Badalamenti.
The films themselves are often dark but always honest, their perversions expressive and earned rather than bluntly hammered. As we follow the cosmic tendrils of Lynch’s brain backwards toward their origin, it’s only natural to ask: why does this guy see the world the way he sees it?
One answer may lay in Victor Fleming 1939 MGM classic, whose enchantments reach even further back, to its position as an early television staple for impressional baby boomers developing their imaginations and material predilections in the glow of the family’s suburban RCA console.
The films themselves are often dark but always honest, their perversions expressive and earned rather than bluntly hammered. As we follow the cosmic tendrils of Lynch’s brain backwards toward their origin, it’s only natural to ask: why does this guy see the world the way he sees it?
One answer may lay in Victor Fleming 1939 MGM classic, whose enchantments reach even further back, to its position as an early television staple for impressional baby boomers developing their imaginations and material predilections in the glow of the family’s suburban RCA console.
- 6/13/2023
- by Matt Warren
- Film Independent News & More
New Criterion Collection films are constantly being released, and the whole library now stands at around 1500 movies, whether that be on individual DVDs, Blu-ray or box sets, there is something to satisfy all tastes. The Criterion Collection have the most dedicated film nuts in the industry working around the clock churning out wonderfully restored movies, and their impressive collection of films is a testament to cinema history. The sheer amount of quality releases is brilliant, but to help you choose among some great options, we have done some research into the best new Criterion Collection releases. Let’s take a look.
When is the Night of the Living Dead Criterion Collection Available?
Night of the Living Dead is a masterfully shot horror movie directed by legend George A. Romero. This was Romero’s first attempt at a feature-length film, and it has since become a horror movie classic that has...
When is the Night of the Living Dead Criterion Collection Available?
Night of the Living Dead is a masterfully shot horror movie directed by legend George A. Romero. This was Romero’s first attempt at a feature-length film, and it has since become a horror movie classic that has...
- 11/8/2022
- by Ross Holder
- ScreenRant
This might be the biggest Blu-ray column we've ever published here. I tell you this for no real reason, I just want to impress you. In this latest Blu-ray round-up, we have the newest Jordan Peele movie, a David Lynch horror masterpiece headed to 4K from the Criterion Collection, Brad Pitt making terrible jokes in between okay fight scenes, Idris Elba fighting a lion, a suburban family fighting some ghosts, and much more. Keep those discs spinning.
Nope
One of the best movies of the year, Jordan Peele's "Nope" is at first blush a film about aliens and UFOs. But as usual, Peele has a lot more on his mind — specifically, the way we, as humans, approach spectacles and dare to push back against things that we should probably leave alone. This is Peele's slickest movie yet, with the filmmaker going into full Spielberg mode to create the type of thrilling flick that's funny,...
Nope
One of the best movies of the year, Jordan Peele's "Nope" is at first blush a film about aliens and UFOs. But as usual, Peele has a lot more on his mind — specifically, the way we, as humans, approach spectacles and dare to push back against things that we should probably leave alone. This is Peele's slickest movie yet, with the filmmaker going into full Spielberg mode to create the type of thrilling flick that's funny,...
- 10/19/2022
- by Chris Evangelista
- Slash Film
The nominees list for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Board of Governors has been revealed before its June 6-10 balloting.
The candidates are hoping to fill the open seats on the 54-member board. Up to four candidates are set for the open seat at each each branch, which carries three governors with staggered terms per branch.
Board members who have termed out include Academy president David Rubin (from the casting directors branch), Jan Pascale (production designers), Mark Johnson (producers) and Nancy Utley (PR).
Candidates vying for a seat include actress Marlee Matlin, composer Hans Zimmer, and executive Toby Emmerich.
The slate faces some crucial tests once installed, including selecting a new Academy president and new CEO to replace outgoing Dawn Hudson. The Academy also must overcome perceptions created in a rocky year, with its Will Smith Oscars slap incident and the uproar over what categories would make it into the Oscars broadcast.
The candidates are hoping to fill the open seats on the 54-member board. Up to four candidates are set for the open seat at each each branch, which carries three governors with staggered terms per branch.
Board members who have termed out include Academy president David Rubin (from the casting directors branch), Jan Pascale (production designers), Mark Johnson (producers) and Nancy Utley (PR).
Candidates vying for a seat include actress Marlee Matlin, composer Hans Zimmer, and executive Toby Emmerich.
The slate faces some crucial tests once installed, including selecting a new Academy president and new CEO to replace outgoing Dawn Hudson. The Academy also must overcome perceptions created in a rocky year, with its Will Smith Oscars slap incident and the uproar over what categories would make it into the Oscars broadcast.
- 6/2/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Film Independent President Josh Welsh announced today that entertainment attorney and producer Brenda Robinson has been elected the new chair of the nonprofit’s board of directors.
Robinson succeeds longtime Film Independent chair Mary Sweeney, who has served in the position for the past nine years and on the board for more than two decades. Previously vice chair, Robinson will continue to work closely with the executive committee of Film Independent, the arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and serves to champion creative independence in visual storytelling.
Film Independent also announced three new members to join the board: Matthew Greenfield, president of Searchlight Pictures; Rhys Ernst, producer and director; and Edward Rada, non-profit financial executive, who will serve as the executive committee treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Welsh said in a statement announcing Robinson’s election.
Robinson succeeds longtime Film Independent chair Mary Sweeney, who has served in the position for the past nine years and on the board for more than two decades. Previously vice chair, Robinson will continue to work closely with the executive committee of Film Independent, the arts organization that produces the Film Independent Spirit Awards and serves to champion creative independence in visual storytelling.
Film Independent also announced three new members to join the board: Matthew Greenfield, president of Searchlight Pictures; Rhys Ernst, producer and director; and Edward Rada, non-profit financial executive, who will serve as the executive committee treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Welsh said in a statement announcing Robinson’s election.
- 1/26/2022
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Brenda Robinson, an entertainment attorney, producer and partner at film financing and development company Gamechanger Films, has been elected the new chair of the board of directors at Film Independent, the nonprofit arts organization behind the Spirit Awards.
She takes over for Mary Sweeney, who served as chairman for the past nine years as part of a two-decade-plus run on the board. The nonprofit also said Wednesday that it has appointed three new board members: Searchlight Pictures president Matthew Greenfield; Transparent producer-director Rhys Ernst; and Edward Rada, a nonprofit financial executive who joins the executive committee as treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new Chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh said. “With her unparalleled passion and advocacy for the arts and artists, Brenda is uniquely qualified to help lead Film Independent. And I’d also like to extend a...
She takes over for Mary Sweeney, who served as chairman for the past nine years as part of a two-decade-plus run on the board. The nonprofit also said Wednesday that it has appointed three new board members: Searchlight Pictures president Matthew Greenfield; Transparent producer-director Rhys Ernst; and Edward Rada, a nonprofit financial executive who joins the executive committee as treasurer.
“We are thrilled to have Brenda Robinson as the new Chair of Film Independent’s Board of Directors,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh said. “With her unparalleled passion and advocacy for the arts and artists, Brenda is uniquely qualified to help lead Film Independent. And I’d also like to extend a...
- 1/26/2022
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
This one delivers the 4K ‘experience’ — and David Lynch’s mesmerizing visuals and Angelo Badalamenti’s seductive music once again pull us into a different dimension. Four or five viewings down the line, the ‘storyline’ of this TV show-become-feature film is if anything less understandable. But it’s no less pleasantly weird — we can’t keep our eyes off of Naomi Watts and Laura Harring. My ‘quality’ section debates a question I’m getting more often: are 4K discs worth the upgrade?
Mulholland Dr. 4K
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 779
2001 / Color / 1:85 / 146 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date November 16, 2021 / 49.95
Starring: Justin Theroux, Naomi Watts, Laura Harring, Ann Miller, Scott Wulff, Robert Forster, Brent Briscoe, Maya Bond, Patrick Fischler, Michael Cooke, Bonnie Aarons, Lee Grant, Chad Everett, James Karen, Dan Hedaya, Monty Montgomery, Rebekah Del Rio.
Cinematography: Peter Deming
Production Designer: Jack Fisk
Film Editor: Mary Sweeney...
Mulholland Dr. 4K
4K Ultra HD + Blu-ray
The Criterion Collection 779
2001 / Color / 1:85 / 146 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date November 16, 2021 / 49.95
Starring: Justin Theroux, Naomi Watts, Laura Harring, Ann Miller, Scott Wulff, Robert Forster, Brent Briscoe, Maya Bond, Patrick Fischler, Michael Cooke, Bonnie Aarons, Lee Grant, Chad Everett, James Karen, Dan Hedaya, Monty Montgomery, Rebekah Del Rio.
Cinematography: Peter Deming
Production Designer: Jack Fisk
Film Editor: Mary Sweeney...
- 12/4/2021
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
It was an imposing opening, and Hollywood loves openings that are grand in concept, star-studded and famously over budget. The new Academy Museum of Motion Pictures finally is complete, and key industry players have paid homage and faithfully scrutinized its exhibits.
But they’ve also pondered the key question that has hovered over the museum from its inception: What story should it tell?
Up front, the museum’s auteurs let it be known they did not want to present a chronological history of the movie industry, with its fables and foibles. The museum would not be a re-creation of, say, Neal Gabler’s An Empire of Their Own: How the Jews Invented Hollywood.
The upshot: The industry’s assessments seem to be playing out on two levels. Official Hollywood is grateful that diverse and creative voices such as Spike Lee and Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki are awarded important billing. But...
But they’ve also pondered the key question that has hovered over the museum from its inception: What story should it tell?
Up front, the museum’s auteurs let it be known they did not want to present a chronological history of the movie industry, with its fables and foibles. The museum would not be a re-creation of, say, Neal Gabler’s An Empire of Their Own: How the Jews Invented Hollywood.
The upshot: The industry’s assessments seem to be playing out on two levels. Official Hollywood is grateful that diverse and creative voices such as Spike Lee and Japanese animator Hayao Miyazaki are awarded important billing. But...
- 11/12/2021
- by Peter Bart
- Deadline Film + TV
Alvin Straight is not the twisted David Lynch character audiences expected… he’s a well-adjusted old Iowan with the same kinds of regrets that most people have. Taken from a true story, Alvin can’t drive and hasn’t much money, but he undertakes an eccentric Odyssey that in different circumstances might get him committed. And there’s the rub — his ‘impossible’ 5 mph trek across Iowa becomes a voyage of affirmation. Lynch is no cheater: we may expect bloody disaster but he instead gives us a statement about common decency and goodwill from his own Midwestern roots. This one movie will lower your blood pressure by 10 points.
The Straight Story
Region Free Blu-ray
Viavision [Imprint] 61
1999 / Color / 2:39 widescreen / 112 min. / Street Date August 25, 2021 / Available from / 39.95au
Starring: Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, Dan Flannery, Everett McGill, Barbara Robertson, James Cada, Sally Wingert, Kevin P. Farley, John Farley, John Lordan, Russ Reed, Harry Dean Stanton.
The Straight Story
Region Free Blu-ray
Viavision [Imprint] 61
1999 / Color / 2:39 widescreen / 112 min. / Street Date August 25, 2021 / Available from / 39.95au
Starring: Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, Dan Flannery, Everett McGill, Barbara Robertson, James Cada, Sally Wingert, Kevin P. Farley, John Farley, John Lordan, Russ Reed, Harry Dean Stanton.
- 9/21/2021
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
Three feature projects celebrating diverse voices and stories awarded up to $50,000 each.
Filmmakers First Fund, a Los Angeles-based fund and studio space supporting full-length narrative and documentary projects in early development, has announced its first round of awards.
Fund co-founders Martin Marquet, a producer and former international publicist who produced 2020 Sundance World Cinema – Documentary grand jury prize winner Epicentro, Tony-winning Broadway producer Rebecca Gang (Hadestown), and producer/actor/artist Gale M. Harold III invited a majority women-led board to select three projects.
The awardees will each receive grants of up to $50,000, as well as 12 months of access to the Fund...
Filmmakers First Fund, a Los Angeles-based fund and studio space supporting full-length narrative and documentary projects in early development, has announced its first round of awards.
Fund co-founders Martin Marquet, a producer and former international publicist who produced 2020 Sundance World Cinema – Documentary grand jury prize winner Epicentro, Tony-winning Broadway producer Rebecca Gang (Hadestown), and producer/actor/artist Gale M. Harold III invited a majority women-led board to select three projects.
The awardees will each receive grants of up to $50,000, as well as 12 months of access to the Fund...
- 1/5/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Consider it television finally getting its due. Film Independent announced Tuesday that it would be expanding its awards slate for the 2021 Independent Spirit Awards, adding six categories recognizing TV and episodic work alongside its long-established film honors.
“The independent, diverse creators we’ve supported for decades now straddle the feature and episodic worlds,” Board Chair Mary Sweeney said in a statement. “Our mission supports and celebrates visual storytellers wherever they practice their craft. The addition of the TV Spirit Awards recognizes this expansion by celebrating diverse independent, creative voices across platforms.”
In many ways, the move has been a long time coming, with Film Independent introducing TV and episodic work in its year-round programs, including Education, Artist Development, as well as its screening program, Film Independent Presents.
Not everything is changing for next year’s event, however, with the organization announcing that the awards will again air on IFC, who...
“The independent, diverse creators we’ve supported for decades now straddle the feature and episodic worlds,” Board Chair Mary Sweeney said in a statement. “Our mission supports and celebrates visual storytellers wherever they practice their craft. The addition of the TV Spirit Awards recognizes this expansion by celebrating diverse independent, creative voices across platforms.”
In many ways, the move has been a long time coming, with Film Independent introducing TV and episodic work in its year-round programs, including Education, Artist Development, as well as its screening program, Film Independent Presents.
Not everything is changing for next year’s event, however, with the organization announcing that the awards will again air on IFC, who...
- 9/29/2020
- by Libby Hill
- Indiewire
Film Independent has added five television categories to the 36th edition of the Spirit Awards, to be held on April 24, 2021 — the day before the Oscars.
The TV categories include best new scripted series, new non-scripted or documentary series, male performance, female performance and ensemble cast. The organization also announced on Tuesday that the 2021 show will be returning to longstanding broadcast partner IFC, and that submissions for the 2021 program are now officially open. IFC has broadcast the ceremony since 1994.
“The independent, diverse creators we’ve supported for decades now straddle the feature and episodic worlds,” board chair Mary Sweeney said. “Our mission supports and celebrates visual storytellers wherever they practice their craft. The addition of TV Spirit Awards recognizes this expansion by celebrating diverse independent, creative voices across platforms.”
“2020 has been a year of endless change and chaos, so it’s wonderful to be back with our friends at IFC,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh added.
The TV categories include best new scripted series, new non-scripted or documentary series, male performance, female performance and ensemble cast. The organization also announced on Tuesday that the 2021 show will be returning to longstanding broadcast partner IFC, and that submissions for the 2021 program are now officially open. IFC has broadcast the ceremony since 1994.
“The independent, diverse creators we’ve supported for decades now straddle the feature and episodic worlds,” board chair Mary Sweeney said. “Our mission supports and celebrates visual storytellers wherever they practice their craft. The addition of TV Spirit Awards recognizes this expansion by celebrating diverse independent, creative voices across platforms.”
“2020 has been a year of endless change and chaos, so it’s wonderful to be back with our friends at IFC,” Film Independent president Josh Welsh added.
- 9/29/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
Non-profit says show will return to longstanding broadcast partner IFC.
Film Independent is introducing TV prizes for its 2021 Spirit Awards, which have been scheduled for April 24, 2021, keeping the event’s traditional berth on the eve of the Oscars.
The new categories include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance, and Best Ensemble Cast.
The non-profit also announced the 2021 show will be returning to longstanding broadcast partner IFC.
Submissions are officially open. The early deadline for Spirit Award submissions is October 13, the regulardeadline is October 27, the final deadline is November 17, and the...
Film Independent is introducing TV prizes for its 2021 Spirit Awards, which have been scheduled for April 24, 2021, keeping the event’s traditional berth on the eve of the Oscars.
The new categories include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance, and Best Ensemble Cast.
The non-profit also announced the 2021 show will be returning to longstanding broadcast partner IFC.
Submissions are officially open. The early deadline for Spirit Award submissions is October 13, the regulardeadline is October 27, the final deadline is November 17, and the...
- 9/29/2020
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Non-profit says show will return to longstanding broadcast partner IFC.
Film Independent is introducing TV prizes for its 2021 Spirit Awards, which have been scheduled for April 24, 2021, keeping the event’s traditional berth on the eve of the Oscars.
The new categories include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance, and Best Ensemble Cast.
The non-profit also announced the 2021 show will be returning to longstanding broadcast partner IFC.
Submissions are officially open. The early deadline for Spirit Award submissions is October 13, the regulardeadline is October 27, the final deadline is November 17, and the...
Film Independent is introducing TV prizes for its 2021 Spirit Awards, which have been scheduled for April 24, 2021, keeping the event’s traditional berth on the eve of the Oscars.
The new categories include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance, and Best Ensemble Cast.
The non-profit also announced the 2021 show will be returning to longstanding broadcast partner IFC.
Submissions are officially open. The early deadline for Spirit Award submissions is October 13, the regulardeadline is October 27, the final deadline is November 17, and the...
- 9/29/2020
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The Independent Spirit Awards, now in its 36th year, are expanding to include five new television categories for its 2021 awards show, Film Independent announced Tuesday. The new categories include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance and Best Ensemble Cast, and submissions for the awards are now open. The feature film awards, which last year awarded Lulu Wang’s “The Farewell” the top prize, remain the same. The 2021 ceremony has been pushed along with the rest of the awards season calendar and will take place on April 24, 2021 and will air on IFC. Also Read: Aaron Sorkin In, Steven Spielberg Out in Already Strange Awards Season The early deadline for Spirit Award submissions is October 13, 2020, the regular deadline is Oct. 27, the final deadline is November 17, 2020 and the extended Film Independent member deadline is Nov. 20, 2020. Nominations will be announced on Tuesday, January 26, 2021. “The independent,...
- 9/29/2020
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The Film Independent Spirit Awards will also be lauding Television, effective with its April 24, 2021 ceremony which will air on IFC. The awards ceremony is celebrating its 36th year.
Additional categories to the kudo telecast include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance, and Best Ensemble Cast. Submissions for the 2020-21 year are now open.
“The independent, diverse creators we’ve supported for decades now straddle the feature and episodic worlds,” said Board Chair Mary Sweeney. “Our mission supports and celebrates visual storytellers wherever they practice their craft. The addition of TV Spirit Awards recognizes this expansion by celebrating diverse independent, creative voices across platforms.”
For several years, Film Independent has incorporated television and episodic work in its year-round programs, including Education, Artist Development and its screening program, Film Independent Presents. With filmmakers continually dipping their toes in TV, the organization decided...
Additional categories to the kudo telecast include Best New Scripted Series, Best New Non-Scripted or Documentary Series, Best Male Performance, Best Female Performance, and Best Ensemble Cast. Submissions for the 2020-21 year are now open.
“The independent, diverse creators we’ve supported for decades now straddle the feature and episodic worlds,” said Board Chair Mary Sweeney. “Our mission supports and celebrates visual storytellers wherever they practice their craft. The addition of TV Spirit Awards recognizes this expansion by celebrating diverse independent, creative voices across platforms.”
For several years, Film Independent has incorporated television and episodic work in its year-round programs, including Education, Artist Development and its screening program, Film Independent Presents. With filmmakers continually dipping their toes in TV, the organization decided...
- 9/29/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Any parent hoping to watch a David Lynch movie with the whole family is in luck starting in April. Disney+ has announced Lynch’s 1999 Disney movie “The Straight Story” will be available to stream next month, which is exciting news as the movie has been hard to come by in recent years on streaming. “The Straight Story” is available to purchase on YouTube and Amazon, but Disney+ subscribers will be able to stream the biographical drama as part of their membership staring April 3.
“The Straight Story” is an outlier in Lynch’s challenging and experimental filmography, with the majority of his movies only be suitable for adult viewers. Co-written by John Roach and Mary Sweeney, “The Straight Story” tells the true story of Alvin Straight, who made headlines in 1994 for journeying across Iowa and Wisconsin on a lawn mower. The cast includes Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, and regular Lynch collaborator Harry Dean Stanton.
“The Straight Story” is an outlier in Lynch’s challenging and experimental filmography, with the majority of his movies only be suitable for adult viewers. Co-written by John Roach and Mary Sweeney, “The Straight Story” tells the true story of Alvin Straight, who made headlines in 1994 for journeying across Iowa and Wisconsin on a lawn mower. The cast includes Richard Farnsworth, Sissy Spacek, and regular Lynch collaborator Harry Dean Stanton.
- 3/18/2020
- by Zack Sharf
- Indiewire
In real-estate parlance, new artistic director Jacqueline Lyanga came to Film Independent when it was something of a fixer-upper. Longtime Los Angeles Film Festival director Stephanie Allain left the organization in 2016 to return to producing, and last September board chair Mary Sweeney announced the the decision to shutter the festival after 23 years in order to “explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
However, independent film was in something of a year-round crisis of its own. While the spirit of independent film was alive and well (as were Film Independent’s own Independent Spirit Awards), specialty box office has seen a marked decline and films are slower to sell.
So Lyanga, who joined the organization in May, started tearing down walls. On October 18, the former AFI Fest director will launch “The New Wave,” a three-day series that’s free to the public and...
However, independent film was in something of a year-round crisis of its own. While the spirit of independent film was alive and well (as were Film Independent’s own Independent Spirit Awards), specialty box office has seen a marked decline and films are slower to sell.
So Lyanga, who joined the organization in May, started tearing down walls. On October 18, the former AFI Fest director will launch “The New Wave,” a three-day series that’s free to the public and...
- 10/3/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
Four years after AMC’s “Mad Men” went off the air, nine-time Emmy winner Matthew Weiner is back in the awards conversation for his anthology series “The Romanoffs.” The truly inventive Amazon Prime program tells the story of various descendants of the infamous Russian royal family living in today’s world, with each of its can’t-miss episodes focusing on a different cast and story. Instead of entering the program as Best Limited Series at the 2019 Emmys, the streaming service has opted to submit three of its eight segments as Best TV Movie: “End of the Line,” “The Violet Hour” and “House of Special Purpose.” Will Emmy voters welcome Weiner back to their exclusive party this year?
SEEEmmys 2019 exclusive: Amazon Prime categories for ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,’ ‘A Very English Scandal,’ ‘Homecoming’ and more
Weiner, who directed and produced all eight segments of the anthology series, showed no signs of...
SEEEmmys 2019 exclusive: Amazon Prime categories for ‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel,’ ‘A Very English Scandal,’ ‘Homecoming’ and more
Weiner, who directed and produced all eight segments of the anthology series, showed no signs of...
- 6/6/2019
- by Marcus James Dixon
- Gold Derby
Former AFI Fest director Jacqueline Lyanga has made her newest collaboration official, thanks to a big new role at Los Angeles’ own Film Independent. Lyanga has joined the organization as its Artistic Director, a role that will require her to “oversee re-envisioning and expanding the organization’s year-round film, television, and new media programming.” After departing her AFI Fest post in June 2018, Lyanga joined Film Independent as guest director of Vr and Immersive Storytelling for its Los Angeles Film Festival. Upon the conclusion of its 2018 edition, Laff announced that it was ending and would turn its focus to year-round events.
Per an official press release, Lyanga will also program Film Independent Presents (the year-round screening series supported by Lead Sponsor Hollywood Foreign Press Association), curate The Portal, and will build out additional programming throughout the year and across the city of Los Angeles.
She will also play a key role...
Per an official press release, Lyanga will also program Film Independent Presents (the year-round screening series supported by Lead Sponsor Hollywood Foreign Press Association), curate The Portal, and will build out additional programming throughout the year and across the city of Los Angeles.
She will also play a key role...
- 5/14/2019
- by Kate Erbland
- Indiewire
Coming off one of its most contentious years in history, the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences has sent out its list of candidates for its Board of Governors elections late this month.
The Board of Governors directs the Academy’s strategic vision, preserves the organization’s financial health, and assures the fulfillment of its mission.
Governors attend 6-8 board meetings annually (in person or by video conference when out of town). Each Governor also serves on one board oversight committee and their branch’s executive committee, and they are expected to represent their branch at numerous Academy events through the year.
Governors have fiduciary responsibilities imposed by state law to serve the Academy’s best interests, by acting with responsibility and care when approving annual goals presented by management, as well as major policies concerning governance.
CEO Dawn Hudson oversees a staff of more than 300 who conduct the Academy’s day-to-day business.
The Board of Governors directs the Academy’s strategic vision, preserves the organization’s financial health, and assures the fulfillment of its mission.
Governors attend 6-8 board meetings annually (in person or by video conference when out of town). Each Governor also serves on one board oversight committee and their branch’s executive committee, and they are expected to represent their branch at numerous Academy events through the year.
Governors have fiduciary responsibilities imposed by state law to serve the Academy’s best interests, by acting with responsibility and care when approving annual goals presented by management, as well as major policies concerning governance.
CEO Dawn Hudson oversees a staff of more than 300 who conduct the Academy’s day-to-day business.
- 5/10/2019
- by Michael Cieply and Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
’While we are very proud of what we’ve accomplished… the truth is that it has struggled to thrive.’
Film Independent said on Wednesday (31) that the La Film Festival will close down after 18 years and be replaced by a series of year-round events.
Programmes will include a number of new initiatives to be announced in coming months as well as several that have traditionally taken place during the festival, among them Vr and immersive storytelling showcase The Portal, produced in partnership with Loyola Marymount University School of Film and Television.
Events include a two-day event centred on inclusion in the film industry,...
Film Independent said on Wednesday (31) that the La Film Festival will close down after 18 years and be replaced by a series of year-round events.
Programmes will include a number of new initiatives to be announced in coming months as well as several that have traditionally taken place during the festival, among them Vr and immersive storytelling showcase The Portal, produced in partnership with Loyola Marymount University School of Film and Television.
Events include a two-day event centred on inclusion in the film industry,...
- 10/31/2018
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The Los Angeles Film Festival is no more. Film Independent announced today that this year’s edition, which ran from September 20–28, will be its last and that the organization (which also hosts the Spirit Awards) will now focus on year-round events. 2018 marked a turning point for Laff, which had traditionally taken place in the summer.
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” Mary Sweeney, Chair of the Film Independent Board of Directors, said in a statement. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
“While we are very proud of what we’ve accomplished with the La Film Festival over the past eighteen years,...
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” Mary Sweeney, Chair of the Film Independent Board of Directors, said in a statement. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
“While we are very proud of what we’ve accomplished with the La Film Festival over the past eighteen years,...
- 10/31/2018
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
After 18 years under Film Independent, the Los Angeles Film Festival is no more.
Film Independent announced Wednesday that it was ending the festival — which had been moved this year from June to September — and replace it with year-round events aimed at building community and broadening its support of visual storytellers. Josh Welsh, president of the nonprofit, admitted that the event had “struggled to thrive.”
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” said Mary Sweeney, chair of the Film Independent board of directors. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
Film Independent assumed control of the festival in 2001 after it first...
Film Independent announced Wednesday that it was ending the festival — which had been moved this year from June to September — and replace it with year-round events aimed at building community and broadening its support of visual storytellers. Josh Welsh, president of the nonprofit, admitted that the event had “struggled to thrive.”
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” said Mary Sweeney, chair of the Film Independent board of directors. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
Film Independent assumed control of the festival in 2001 after it first...
- 10/31/2018
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The L.A. Film Festival will end after 18 years and will be replaced by “year-round events aimed at building community and broadening its support of visual storytellers,” Film Independent announced Wednesday.
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” said Mary Sweeney, chair of the Film Independent board of directors. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent, added, “While we are very proud of what we’ve accomplished with the La Film Festival over the past 18 years, the truth is that it has struggled to thrive, and the time has come for us to try something new.
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” said Mary Sweeney, chair of the Film Independent board of directors. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
Josh Welsh, president of Film Independent, added, “While we are very proud of what we’ve accomplished with the La Film Festival over the past 18 years, the truth is that it has struggled to thrive, and the time has come for us to try something new.
- 10/31/2018
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
The Los Angeles Film Festival just moved to a fall slot this year, and now Film Independent says it is ending the fest after 18 years and will replace it with “year-round events aimed at building community and broadening its support of visual storytellers.”
The nonprofit arts organization also will eliminate three full-time staff positions, but it didn’t give specifics.
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” said Mary Sweeney, Chair of the Film Independent Board of Directors, which made the decision. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
The new programs will include a number of initiatives to be...
The nonprofit arts organization also will eliminate three full-time staff positions, but it didn’t give specifics.
“We took a hard look at the healthy growth of Film Independent’s year-round programs and events over the past six years: the Spirit Awards, our film series curated by Elvis Mitchell, membership, labs, workshops, filmmaker grants and international programs,” said Mary Sweeney, Chair of the Film Independent Board of Directors, which made the decision. “In the end, we concluded that the organization should explore a more nimble, sustainable form of exhibiting and celebrating independent film artists year round.”
The new programs will include a number of initiatives to be...
- 10/31/2018
- by Erik Pedersen
- Deadline Film + TV
A review of “The House of Special Purpose,” this week’s The Romanoffs, coming up just as soon as I blame it on the Method…
“I’m sorry, I… I feel like I’m losing my mind here.” -Olivia
In conversations with fellow critics about this series, “The House of Special Purpose,” which follows an actress who is being tortured by her director, has either been their favorite or least favorite of the three episodes Amazon provided us in advance. No middle ground. I fall in the latter group, though...
“I’m sorry, I… I feel like I’m losing my mind here.” -Olivia
In conversations with fellow critics about this series, “The House of Special Purpose,” which follows an actress who is being tortured by her director, has either been their favorite or least favorite of the three episodes Amazon provided us in advance. No middle ground. I fall in the latter group, though...
- 10/19/2018
- by Alan Sepinwall
- Rollingstone.com
David Lynch describes himself as “not really a political person” in a new Guardian interview, though he does have some strong views. The singular filmmaker, who endorsed Bernie Sanders in the 2016 Democratic primary and thinks (but isn’t sure) he ultimately voted Libertarian in the general election, “really like[s] the freedom to do what you want to do.”
Though he remains on the fence about Donald Trump, Lynch thinks he has potential. “He could go down as one of the greatest presidents in history because he has disrupted the thing so much. No one is able to counter this guy in an intelligent way.” Trump “may not be doing a good job himself,” according to the profile, but he might provide a template for other outsiders: “Our so-called leaders can’t take the country forward, can’t get anything done. Like children, they are. Trump has shown all this,” Lynch says.
Though he remains on the fence about Donald Trump, Lynch thinks he has potential. “He could go down as one of the greatest presidents in history because he has disrupted the thing so much. No one is able to counter this guy in an intelligent way.” Trump “may not be doing a good job himself,” according to the profile, but he might provide a template for other outsiders: “Our so-called leaders can’t take the country forward, can’t get anything done. Like children, they are. Trump has shown all this,” Lynch says.
- 6/23/2018
- by Michael Nordine
- Indiewire
At this point, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences’ governors election looks more like a round-up than a race; more than 180 members have declared their interest in filling 17 contested spots on the 54-member Board of Governors.
Voting in the run-off round starts on Monday and ends May 18. That will narrow the present field to a maximum of four nominees per branch in the final round, which follows.
For now, there are on average about 11 candidates in the running for each slot. In the casting directors and costume design branches, only three members have declared for each slot. But not so in the actors branch, where 17 members — including Brie Larson, Jacki Weaver and Meg Ryan — are vying for the spot being vacated by termed-out Tom Hanks; or the producers, executives, and public relations branches, all of which have a bumper crop of candidates. Marvin Levy, currently a governor in the public relations branch,...
Voting in the run-off round starts on Monday and ends May 18. That will narrow the present field to a maximum of four nominees per branch in the final round, which follows.
For now, there are on average about 11 candidates in the running for each slot. In the casting directors and costume design branches, only three members have declared for each slot. But not so in the actors branch, where 17 members — including Brie Larson, Jacki Weaver and Meg Ryan — are vying for the spot being vacated by termed-out Tom Hanks; or the producers, executives, and public relations branches, all of which have a bumper crop of candidates. Marvin Levy, currently a governor in the public relations branch,...
- 5/11/2018
- by Michael Cieply
- Deadline Film + TV
Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me
Blu-ray
Criterion
1992/ 1:85 / 135 Min. / Street Date October 17, 2017
Starring Sheryl Lee, David Lynch, Ray Wise, Kyle MacLachlan
Cinematography by Ron Garcia
Written by David Lynch, Robert Engels
Music by Angelo Badalamenti
Edited by Mary Sweeney
Produced by Mark Frost, Tim Harbert, David Lynch
Directed by David Lynch
Making its debut in April of 1990, Twin Peaks arrived on ABC’s doorstep as a kind of Trojan horse, infiltrating the network disguised as a weekly melodrama while hiding its arthouse inclinations behind a Peyton Place exterior. A supernatural soap opera governed by doppelgängers, time travelers and the transmigration of souls, director David Lynch’s effort was a short-lived sensation but has since enjoyed its own reincarnations in a feature film, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me, and the Showtime series, Twin Peaks: The Return.
The Return reunited the familiar characters created by Lynch and Mark Frost...
Blu-ray
Criterion
1992/ 1:85 / 135 Min. / Street Date October 17, 2017
Starring Sheryl Lee, David Lynch, Ray Wise, Kyle MacLachlan
Cinematography by Ron Garcia
Written by David Lynch, Robert Engels
Music by Angelo Badalamenti
Edited by Mary Sweeney
Produced by Mark Frost, Tim Harbert, David Lynch
Directed by David Lynch
Making its debut in April of 1990, Twin Peaks arrived on ABC’s doorstep as a kind of Trojan horse, infiltrating the network disguised as a weekly melodrama while hiding its arthouse inclinations behind a Peyton Place exterior. A supernatural soap opera governed by doppelgängers, time travelers and the transmigration of souls, director David Lynch’s effort was a short-lived sensation but has since enjoyed its own reincarnations in a feature film, Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me, and the Showtime series, Twin Peaks: The Return.
The Return reunited the familiar characters created by Lynch and Mark Frost...
- 11/11/2017
- by Charlie Largent
- Trailers from Hell
Film Independent announced the promotion on Friday.
Cochis replaces outgoing Los Angeles Film Festival director Stephanie Allain, who is moving on to focus on producing.
Cochis herself is a producer who has worked with Drake Doremus and James Ponsoldt and she also served as the festival’s creative director.
“Jennifer Cochis is a brilliant new force on the festival scene and I am extremely happy to have her step into this new role,” said Film Independent president Josh Welsh. “She brings so much experience, intelligence and passion to everything she does.
“She’s worked closely with the mighty Stephanie Allain on the festival for the past two years, first as senior programmer and then as creative director, turning the festival into a powerful platform for discovering new and diverse talent.”
“Jennifer is a secret weapon and I expect exciting things for the La Film Festival from her,” said Film Independent board chair Mary Sweeney.
“It has been...
Cochis replaces outgoing Los Angeles Film Festival director Stephanie Allain, who is moving on to focus on producing.
Cochis herself is a producer who has worked with Drake Doremus and James Ponsoldt and she also served as the festival’s creative director.
“Jennifer Cochis is a brilliant new force on the festival scene and I am extremely happy to have her step into this new role,” said Film Independent president Josh Welsh. “She brings so much experience, intelligence and passion to everything she does.
“She’s worked closely with the mighty Stephanie Allain on the festival for the past two years, first as senior programmer and then as creative director, turning the festival into a powerful platform for discovering new and diverse talent.”
“Jennifer is a secret weapon and I expect exciting things for the La Film Festival from her,” said Film Independent board chair Mary Sweeney.
“It has been...
- 10/14/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Ambiguous Ave.? Bizarro Blvd.? David Lynch's major mystery movie is back looking better than ever in a 4K transfer. Criterion's presentation accompanies it with a stack of interesting interviews with Lynch, Naomi Watts, Laura Herring plus other actors and crew people. The movie began, it seems, as sort of a non-spinoff spinoff of Twin Peaks. Mulholland Dr. Blu-ray The Criterion Collection 779 2001 / Color / 1:85 widescreen / 146 min. / available through The Criterion Collection / Street Date October 27, 2015 / 39.95 Starring Justin Theroux, Naomi Watts, Laura Harring, Ann Miller, Scott Wulff, Robert Forster, Brent Briscoe, Maya Bond, Patrick Fischler, Michael Cooke, Bonnie Aarons, Lee Grant, Chad Everett, James Karen, Dan Hedaya, Monty Montgomery, Rebekah Del Rio. Cinematography Peter Deming Production Designer Jack Fisk Film Editor Mary Sweeney Original Music Angelo Badalamenti Written by David Lynch Produced by Neal Edelstein, Tony Krantz, Michael Polaire, Alain Sarde, Mary Sweeney Directed by David Lynch
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
Time alters everything,...
Reviewed by Glenn Erickson
Time alters everything,...
- 11/10/2015
- by Glenn Erickson
- Trailers from Hell
The first and most important thing that happened as a result of the staging of "Sticks and Stones" at the Met Theater as part of the Act One Festival was that Scott Swan and I got our first agent. Barbara Baruch worked for Ambrosio/Mortimer, a smaller boutique agency at the time, and from the moment we met her, she seemed like what I imagined an agent to be. She was nurturing, she was a cheerleader, she was a ballbuster, and she was always, always, always in our corner. Our time with her was unfortunately too short, and by the time the agency imploded in accusations of embezzlement, we were already repped by Gersh out of New York. Barbara was first, though, and she was the first one to start pushing people to come see our show and to read our work. The strangest thing about those early days is...
- 6/11/2015
- by Drew McWeeny
- Hitfix
Here at the Guadalajara Film Festival (Ficg), Verónica Cura is presenting her latest film, "Death in Buenos Aires" ("Muerte en Buenos Aires"), an Argentine policier. She is also meeting with her international sales agent, Film Factory, the Mexican distributor and the director, first-timer Natalia Meta. The film stars Demian Bichir, Chino Darin , Monica Antonopulos , Carlos Casella , Hugo Arana, Jorgelina Aruzzi , Emilio Disi, Fabián Arenillas, Humberto Tortonese, Gino Renni , Wullich Martin and Luisa Kuliok.
After one month in release in Argentina, it has racked up admissions which is astonishing for a first feature with no TV backing. Its returns were greater than 2014 and first semester 2015’s hit by Daniel Burman, " The Mystery of Happiness" ("El misterio de la felicidad”) .
One of Argentina’s top producers, Verónica Cura ’s opinions on the business and on the importance of education are crucial to understanding what is happening in Latin American production today. Not only does she teach about film production from an artistic and organizational perspective, starting from the moment the idea takes hold, to project development, to shooting and all the way to theatrical exhibition, but her productions are seminal to the cinema of Argentina.
Vero started working in 1992 as a director and head of production. In 2001 she began producing her own films. From 2007 to 2009 she was President of the Association of Independent Producers and Vice President of the Chamber of Film Producers from 2009 to 2011. Veronica has been Vice President of the Argentina Productions Companies Union from 2011 to 2013 .
She was the line producer on 2009’s U.S.- Spain coproduction "There Be Dragons" directed by Roland Joffe. Her credits go as far back as the 1995 film “Moebius" and the 1993 documentary "Radio Olmos," both directed by Gustavo Mosquera. She has been involved in films such as "The Headless Woman" ("La Mujer Sin Cabeza") by Lucrecia Martel (Cannes Competition), "The Other" by Ariel Rotter (Berlinale winner of two Silver Bears and the Jury Grand Prize).
She was executive producer on "Las Acacias" by Pablo Giogelli (Camera D’Or, Cannes 2011), an Argentina–Spain coproduction, as well as "Whisky Romeo Zulu" … and many many more including "One Love" ("Un Amor") by Paula Hernandez in 2011, "In the Eyes Abides the Heart" by Mary Sweeney, a short for Turner Classics Channel, all directed by women, which is something of importance in today’s world. She also produced "Live-in Maid" by Jorge Gaggero (Sundance Special Jury Prize), "Torrent 3" by Santiago Segura, "The Dead and Being Happy" by Javier Rebolla and "The Game Maker" by John Paul Buscarini, among others.
She was the Academic Coordinator for Production at Enerc and teaches in different labs and schools throughout Latin America. She is also a former student of La Fuc. Most recently she spent 1 1/2 weeks in Cuba at the International Film School (Eictv) giving a week's seminar and working with a director and two writers on scripts as part of a new Doctorate program for screenwriters.
"Regarding The film business today, as in every part of the world, cinema in Argentina is facing new challenges. Only about 20% of the theaters remain Un-digitized. Producers must be thinking about budgets, distribution and new forms of exhibition."...
After one month in release in Argentina, it has racked up admissions which is astonishing for a first feature with no TV backing. Its returns were greater than 2014 and first semester 2015’s hit by Daniel Burman, " The Mystery of Happiness" ("El misterio de la felicidad”) .
One of Argentina’s top producers, Verónica Cura ’s opinions on the business and on the importance of education are crucial to understanding what is happening in Latin American production today. Not only does she teach about film production from an artistic and organizational perspective, starting from the moment the idea takes hold, to project development, to shooting and all the way to theatrical exhibition, but her productions are seminal to the cinema of Argentina.
Vero started working in 1992 as a director and head of production. In 2001 she began producing her own films. From 2007 to 2009 she was President of the Association of Independent Producers and Vice President of the Chamber of Film Producers from 2009 to 2011. Veronica has been Vice President of the Argentina Productions Companies Union from 2011 to 2013 .
She was the line producer on 2009’s U.S.- Spain coproduction "There Be Dragons" directed by Roland Joffe. Her credits go as far back as the 1995 film “Moebius" and the 1993 documentary "Radio Olmos," both directed by Gustavo Mosquera. She has been involved in films such as "The Headless Woman" ("La Mujer Sin Cabeza") by Lucrecia Martel (Cannes Competition), "The Other" by Ariel Rotter (Berlinale winner of two Silver Bears and the Jury Grand Prize).
She was executive producer on "Las Acacias" by Pablo Giogelli (Camera D’Or, Cannes 2011), an Argentina–Spain coproduction, as well as "Whisky Romeo Zulu" … and many many more including "One Love" ("Un Amor") by Paula Hernandez in 2011, "In the Eyes Abides the Heart" by Mary Sweeney, a short for Turner Classics Channel, all directed by women, which is something of importance in today’s world. She also produced "Live-in Maid" by Jorge Gaggero (Sundance Special Jury Prize), "Torrent 3" by Santiago Segura, "The Dead and Being Happy" by Javier Rebolla and "The Game Maker" by John Paul Buscarini, among others.
She was the Academic Coordinator for Production at Enerc and teaches in different labs and schools throughout Latin America. She is also a former student of La Fuc. Most recently she spent 1 1/2 weeks in Cuba at the International Film School (Eictv) giving a week's seminar and working with a director and two writers on scripts as part of a new Doctorate program for screenwriters.
"Regarding The film business today, as in every part of the world, cinema in Argentina is facing new challenges. Only about 20% of the theaters remain Un-digitized. Producers must be thinking about budgets, distribution and new forms of exhibition."...
- 3/11/2015
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Now this is a list that could result in a lot of fascinating dissection and thanks to HitFix it comes to our attention almost three years after it was originally released back in 2012, celebrating the Motion Picture Editors Guild's 75th anniversary. Over at HitFix, Kris Tapley asks, "Is this news to anyone elsec" Um, yes, I find it immensely interesting and a perfect starting point for anyone looking to further explore the art of film editing. In an accompanying article we get the particulars concerning what films were eligible and how films were to be considered: In our Jan-feb 12 issue, we asked Guild members to vote on what they consider to be the Best Edited Films of all time. Any feature-length film from any country in the world was eligible. And by "Best Edited," we explained, we didn't just mean picture; sound, music and mixing were to be considered as well.
- 2/4/2015
- by Brad Brevet
- Rope of Silicon
A random bit of researching on a Tuesday night led me to something I didn't know existed: The Motion Picture Editors Guild's list of the 75 best-edited films of all time. It was a feature in part celebrating the Guild's 75th anniversary in 2012. Is this news to anyone else? I confess to having missed it entirely. Naturally, I had to dig in. What was immediately striking to me about the list — which was decided upon by the Guild membership and, per instruction, was considered in terms of picture and sound editorial as opposed to just the former — was the most popular decade ranking. Naturally, the 1970s led with 17 mentions, but right on its heels was the 1990s. I wouldn't have expected that but I happen to agree with the assessment. Thelma Schoonmaker's work on "Raging Bull" came out on top, an objectively difficult choice to dispute, really. It was so transformative,...
- 2/4/2015
- by Kristopher Tapley
- Hitfix
Board chair Mary Sweeney said on Wednesday [24] that McManus was stepping down as co-president after 15 years at Film Independent to pursue other opportunities.
McManus served as co-president alongside Josh Welsh since January 2012. Effective immediately, Welsh will become president.
“Upon the close of our terrific 2013 Los Angeles Film Festival, it felt like a natural time to look ahead and I’ve realised that this is the perfect time to make a change in my own life,” said McManus.
“As a result, I have decided to step down as co-president. My immediate plans are to take the next few months off and explore some options. In the meantime, I want to express my deep gratitude to all my friends and colleagues throughout the independent film community for their artistry, inspiration and support.”
“Sean McManus has been an important and highly valued member of the team at Film Independent for 15 years, first as a transformative director of development and for...
McManus served as co-president alongside Josh Welsh since January 2012. Effective immediately, Welsh will become president.
“Upon the close of our terrific 2013 Los Angeles Film Festival, it felt like a natural time to look ahead and I’ve realised that this is the perfect time to make a change in my own life,” said McManus.
“As a result, I have decided to step down as co-president. My immediate plans are to take the next few months off and explore some options. In the meantime, I want to express my deep gratitude to all my friends and colleagues throughout the independent film community for their artistry, inspiration and support.”
“Sean McManus has been an important and highly valued member of the team at Film Independent for 15 years, first as a transformative director of development and for...
- 7/24/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Los Angeles-based non-profit Film Independent, the organization responsible for the Independent Spirit Awards, has taken its cues from two leaders over the past year and a half. Now that position has been reduced by half: Film Independent announced today that co-president Sean Mc Manus will be vacating the position, leaving Josh Welsh as the organization's sole president. In a statement released today, Film Independent's Board Chair Mary Sweeney praised Mc Manus for his 15 years of work at the organization, where he began as Director of Development before segueing into the role of co-president 18 months ago. “His skills, determination and signature enthusiasm have been instrumental in the tremendous growth of Film Independent during those years," Sweeney said. "We are deeply grateful to him for all his contributions, and he shall be missed. We know that he will move on to even greater accomplishments, and he has the continued full support...
- 7/24/2013
- by Indiewire
- Indiewire
The Straight Story
Written by John Roach & Mary Sweeney
Directed by David Lynch
France/UK/USA, 1999
A film entitled The Straight Story seems like a lie in the bizarre hands of a director like David Lynch, famous for injecting art house storytelling and theater styling into his more mainstream fare. An adaptation of an Iowa farmer’s journey? From Mr. Twin Peaks? Alright, what’s the catch?
The Straight Story’s title is no trick. In fact, it’s about as real as stories get, adapted from the actual 1994 journey of Iowa farmer Alvin Straight. After a less than satisfactory visit to the doctor reminds him of his mortality, Alvin (Richard Farnsworth) decides to set things right. He begins by setting off to Mt Zion, Wisconsin to make amends with his estranged brother Lyle (Harry Dean Stanton), who’s fallen deathly ill. There’s just a one problem: Alvin has no way of getting there.
Written by John Roach & Mary Sweeney
Directed by David Lynch
France/UK/USA, 1999
A film entitled The Straight Story seems like a lie in the bizarre hands of a director like David Lynch, famous for injecting art house storytelling and theater styling into his more mainstream fare. An adaptation of an Iowa farmer’s journey? From Mr. Twin Peaks? Alright, what’s the catch?
The Straight Story’s title is no trick. In fact, it’s about as real as stories get, adapted from the actual 1994 journey of Iowa farmer Alvin Straight. After a less than satisfactory visit to the doctor reminds him of his mortality, Alvin (Richard Farnsworth) decides to set things right. He begins by setting off to Mt Zion, Wisconsin to make amends with his estranged brother Lyle (Harry Dean Stanton), who’s fallen deathly ill. There’s just a one problem: Alvin has no way of getting there.
- 3/10/2013
- by David Klein
- SoundOnSight
Feature James Peaty 27 Feb 2013 - 06:35
A box-office failure, David Lynch's Fire Walk With Me divided critics in 1992. James looks back at a surreal cult film...
When Vincent Canby famously described Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me (1992) as "…not the worst movie ever made; it just seems to be," the renowned Us critic was merely reflecting the overwhelming response to David Lynch’s big-screen prequel to his recently cancelled TV show.
Audibly jeered by the notoriously fickle festival crowd at its unveiling in Cannes, even fellow filmmakers joined the chorus of disapproval against Lynch.
At the festival for the first time with his debut feature, Reservoir Dogs, director Quentin Tarantino went so far as to say: "I’m not ragging on other people, but after I saw Fwwm […] David Lynch has disappeared so far up his own ass that I have no desire to watch another […] Lynch film until I hear something different.
A box-office failure, David Lynch's Fire Walk With Me divided critics in 1992. James looks back at a surreal cult film...
When Vincent Canby famously described Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me (1992) as "…not the worst movie ever made; it just seems to be," the renowned Us critic was merely reflecting the overwhelming response to David Lynch’s big-screen prequel to his recently cancelled TV show.
Audibly jeered by the notoriously fickle festival crowd at its unveiling in Cannes, even fellow filmmakers joined the chorus of disapproval against Lynch.
At the festival for the first time with his debut feature, Reservoir Dogs, director Quentin Tarantino went so far as to say: "I’m not ragging on other people, but after I saw Fwwm […] David Lynch has disappeared so far up his own ass that I have no desire to watch another […] Lynch film until I hear something different.
- 2/25/2013
- by ryanlambie
- Den of Geek
Filmmaker Mary Sweeney has been named Film Independent's new sitting chair of its Board of Directors, the nonprofit's co-presidents, Sean McManus and Josh Welsh, announced on Friday. The producer and editor ("Mulholland Dr.," "Inland Empire") replaces director Bill Condon ("The Twilight Saga: Breaking Dawn"), who has held the position for the last three years. Also read: Salma Hayek, Jeremy Renner Named Honorary Co-Chairs of 2013 Independent Spirit Awards "We are so thankful and appreciative for Bill's incredible leadership during his tenure," McManus said in a statement. "We know Mary is equally devoted to our...
- 1/11/2013
- by Greg Gilman
- The Wrap
For his next trick David Lynch changed tack and shifted gears completely to tell the true story of Alvin Straight, a man who travelled across America to visit his estranged and ailing brother…on a lawnmower. The film was made independently based on a screenplay from Lynch’s frequent collaborator Mary Sweeney and even filmed chronologically along the route that Straight took from Iowa to Wisconsin.
After a successful debut at Cannes, the film was picked up by Walt Disney Pictures for distribution. In a case of art imitating life imitating art, Richard Farnsworth who played the title role was stricken with bone cancer during filming and so much of the frailty he exhibits on screen is in fact real. The following year Farnsworth would tragically commit suicide aged 80.
The Straight Story (1999)
At the time, people were puzzled as to Lynch’s decision to direct this film. The film is...
After a successful debut at Cannes, the film was picked up by Walt Disney Pictures for distribution. In a case of art imitating life imitating art, Richard Farnsworth who played the title role was stricken with bone cancer during filming and so much of the frailty he exhibits on screen is in fact real. The following year Farnsworth would tragically commit suicide aged 80.
The Straight Story (1999)
At the time, people were puzzled as to Lynch’s decision to direct this film. The film is...
- 11/23/2012
- by Chris Holt
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Film Independent, the non-profit arts organization that produces the Spirit Awards and the Los Angeles Film Festival, announced nominations for the 2012 Film Independent Spirit Awards this morning. Anthony Mackie and Kate Beckinsale served as presenters. Nominees for Best Feature include 50/50, Beginners, Drive, Take Shelter, The Artist and The Descendants.
Margin Call was selected to receive the annual Robert Altman Award, which is bestowed upon one film’s director, casting director and ensemble cast.
“The Film Independent Spirit Awards recognize the finest artistic achievements across the broad spectrum of independent filmmaking.from emerging talent working on a shoestring budget to established auteurs,” said Film Independent Senior Director Sean Mc Manus. “The 2012 nominees tell their stories in such an authentic way and reflect the inclusive nature of the independent filmmaking community. We are delighted to support them and expand the audience for their work.”
2012 Film Independent Spirit Award Nominations
Best Feature (Award given to the Producer,...
Margin Call was selected to receive the annual Robert Altman Award, which is bestowed upon one film’s director, casting director and ensemble cast.
“The Film Independent Spirit Awards recognize the finest artistic achievements across the broad spectrum of independent filmmaking.from emerging talent working on a shoestring budget to established auteurs,” said Film Independent Senior Director Sean Mc Manus. “The 2012 nominees tell their stories in such an authentic way and reflect the inclusive nature of the independent filmmaking community. We are delighted to support them and expand the audience for their work.”
2012 Film Independent Spirit Award Nominations
Best Feature (Award given to the Producer,...
- 11/29/2011
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
HollywoodNews.com: Film Independent, the non-profit arts organization that produces the Spirit Awards and the Los Angeles Film Festival, announced nominations this morning for the 2011 Film Independent Spirit Awards. Eva Mendes and Jeremy Renner served as presenters and 2011 Spirit Awards host Joel McHale was also on hand. Nominees for Best Feature include “127 Hours,” “Black Swan,” “Greenberg,” “The Kids Are All Right” and “Winter’s Bone.”
“Please Give” was selected for the Robert Altman Award, which is given to one film’s director, casting director and ensemble cast.
“The artistic side of independent film is stronger than ever, and it’s especially impressive to see the developed craft of extraordinary independent filmmakers who have only gotten better over the years. Past nominees such as Darren Aronofsky, Noah Baumbach, Danny Boyle, Lisa Cholodenko, Debra Granik, Nicole Holofcener and John Cameron Mitchell continue to create original and compelling films that move and amaze us.
“Please Give” was selected for the Robert Altman Award, which is given to one film’s director, casting director and ensemble cast.
“The artistic side of independent film is stronger than ever, and it’s especially impressive to see the developed craft of extraordinary independent filmmakers who have only gotten better over the years. Past nominees such as Darren Aronofsky, Noah Baumbach, Danny Boyle, Lisa Cholodenko, Debra Granik, Nicole Holofcener and John Cameron Mitchell continue to create original and compelling films that move and amaze us.
- 11/30/2010
- by Linny Lum
- Hollywoodnews.com
Optimum continues its mission to release some of the best back catalogue classics on Blu-ray in September with another burst of titles from their Studio Canal Collection. Next up are The Third Man, Delicatessen, Mulholland Drive, The Graduate, Le Cercle Rouge, The Pianist and Breathless. It's a hugely eclectic collection of superb modern and not-so-modern cinema with surely something for anyone who possesses even a hint of filmic discernment.
All include a host of exclusive extras, with input from some serious names from both industry and academic circles which put those filler heavy packages to shame. And, if previous releases from the label are anything to go by, the transfers will be top notch too.
The titles above are released on 13th September 2010 through Optimum Home Entertainment.
Extras and tech specs are as follows - there's a lot, so take a deep breath:
The Third Man
Extras:
Sd, New or...
All include a host of exclusive extras, with input from some serious names from both industry and academic circles which put those filler heavy packages to shame. And, if previous releases from the label are anything to go by, the transfers will be top notch too.
The titles above are released on 13th September 2010 through Optimum Home Entertainment.
Extras and tech specs are as follows - there's a lot, so take a deep breath:
The Third Man
Extras:
Sd, New or...
- 8/24/2010
- Screen Anarchy
Film Independent, the Los Angeles-based non-profit that produces the Spirit Awards and the Los Angeles Film Festival, has elected its new officers: Bill Condon, president; Rodrigo Garcia, vp; Alan Poul, secretary; and Stephanie Allain, treasurer.
All four also are joining the board of directors.
"Getting independent movies made and seen is always a struggle, and we've entered a particularly difficult period. I look forward to working with Rodrigo, Alan, Stephanie, and our extraordinary board to help Film Independent fulfill its mission of promoting the cause of independent filmmaking in this country," Condon said.
Other new board members are Joe Drake, DeVon Franklin, Sue Kroll, David Linde and Ted Mundorff.
Previous officers Vondie Curtis Hall (president), Michael Helfant (vp), Tom Ortenberg (treasurer), and Kasi Lemmons (secretary) remain on the board.
Other members of the board are: Film Independent's current board is comprised of the following industry leaders: Randy Barbato, Adriene Bowles,...
All four also are joining the board of directors.
"Getting independent movies made and seen is always a struggle, and we've entered a particularly difficult period. I look forward to working with Rodrigo, Alan, Stephanie, and our extraordinary board to help Film Independent fulfill its mission of promoting the cause of independent filmmaking in this country," Condon said.
Other new board members are Joe Drake, DeVon Franklin, Sue Kroll, David Linde and Ted Mundorff.
Previous officers Vondie Curtis Hall (president), Michael Helfant (vp), Tom Ortenberg (treasurer), and Kasi Lemmons (secretary) remain on the board.
Other members of the board are: Film Independent's current board is comprised of the following industry leaders: Randy Barbato, Adriene Bowles,...
- 12/4/2009
- by By Gregg Kilday
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Mary Sweeney, a longtime collaborator of David Lynch, will serve as the moderator for Film Independent's ninth annual Directors Close-Up: Conversations on the Art of Filmmaking, formerly known as the Director Series, which will be held Feb. 4-March 11 at The Landmark Theatre in West Los Angeles.
"The Directors Close-Up series is a rare opportunity for both filmmakers and film lovers to learn about filmmaking first-hand from some of our most prominent independent directors and their collaborators," Dawn Hudson, executive director of Film Independent.
Series panelists will include Elliot Davis (cinematographer, "Twilight"), Rodrigo Garcia ("In Treatment"), Lance Hammer ("Ballast"), Catherine Hardwicke ("Twilight"), Courtney Hunt ("Frozen River"), Jonathan Levine ("The Wackness"), Nancy Richardson (editor, "Twilight") and Howard Rodman (screenwriter, "Savage Grace").
This year's panels will cover the following topics:
Feb. 4: Music and Sound Design; Feb. 11: The Director's Vision and the Creative Team; Feb. 18: The Independent Spirit: A Director's Roundtable; Feb.
"The Directors Close-Up series is a rare opportunity for both filmmakers and film lovers to learn about filmmaking first-hand from some of our most prominent independent directors and their collaborators," Dawn Hudson, executive director of Film Independent.
Series panelists will include Elliot Davis (cinematographer, "Twilight"), Rodrigo Garcia ("In Treatment"), Lance Hammer ("Ballast"), Catherine Hardwicke ("Twilight"), Courtney Hunt ("Frozen River"), Jonathan Levine ("The Wackness"), Nancy Richardson (editor, "Twilight") and Howard Rodman (screenwriter, "Savage Grace").
This year's panels will cover the following topics:
Feb. 4: Music and Sound Design; Feb. 11: The Director's Vision and the Creative Team; Feb. 18: The Independent Spirit: A Director's Roundtable; Feb.
- 1/26/2009
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
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