2010 Book to Film Challenge

Another week, another challenge eh? I know, I'm a crazy woman. I do have a little hesitation on this one as I've the previous reading challenges I've done have been no where near as successful as the film challenges (2 incomplete vs 9 complete, respectively). But I've been reading a lot more recently and perhaps blending types of challenges will work some magic on top of that.

The inspiration here is pretty simple. Several films that I'm really looking forward to seeing this year are based on books, and I always like reading the book first. Some of the books will be first time reads, lots are re-reads in anticipation of the film release and each choice has a movie tie in (MTI) of some kind. Because of the film related nature to this challenge I thought it would be fun write and to share about the process and insights along the way. I'm going with a total of 20 books which feels like a lot, but also feels like the right number. But enough of the waiting and on to the list!

Challenge status of read/re-read books: 20/20 YAY! I did it!!! See my 2010 Reading Wrap Up post here.

Lord of the Rings Trilogy by J.R.R. Tolkien
This is really to get into the swing of things and also because I raced though the books so quickly the first time round trying to get through them for the theatrically releases I know I missed tons of stuff. There is an online reading challenge for this one but it started in January and also included The Hobbit so I'm not sure if I'm too late to join. Update - it wasn't too late to going so I'm reading along with the challenge folks - yay!
Time line - February to April 2010.
Read so far: Fellowship of the Ring, The Two Towers and The Return of the King

The Tempest by William Shakespeare (read)
Julie Taymor who brought us Across the Universe and Titus is directing a version of The Tempest starring Helen Mirren (The Queen, The Last Station), Ben Whishaw (Perfume: The Story of a Murderer), Chris Cooper, Alfred Molina, Djimon Hounsou, Alan Cumming, David Strathairn, Russell Brand and Felicity Jones. I can't wait. But I'll have to as no specific release date but it's currently listed as 2010 on it's IMDb Page. I don't know this story well at all beyond seeing The Forbidden Planet, which I it is a version of.
Time line: flexible, will revisit when release date announced

Beastly by Alex Flinn (read)
I only just realized that this re-telling of Beauty and the Beast in an urban setting is based on a book! I've been curious about the film since I first heard about it but not I'm even looking more forward to checking out the book!
Time line: Before July 30, 2010

In Anticipation of The Twilight Saga: Eclipse (read)
This shouldn't come as any surprize with me being the fan of the Twlight univerce and all. This one will be really interesting and I really hope that I enjoy the film Eclipse more than New Moon. I'm only going halfsies here with the series and added a bit of reference to so the plan is to re-read New Moon (which I didn't get through before the film! - now re-read), re-reading Eclipse but also sneak a first time read of Wuthering Heights in between the two. The first time I read Eclipse I noticed lots of talk about Wuthering Heights which I straight up skipped over as I hadn't read it yet - time to fix that! As an added plus Andrea Arnold (Red Road, Fish Tank) is set to direct a version of Wuthering Heights this year.
Time line: All read before June 30, 2010

Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert (read)
I've had this one on my shelf for ages (and I borrowed it too.. yikes... I will return it to the rightful owner when I'm done!) I'm a little embarrassed to admit I've not yet read it because it's really one of those books that all my women friends have read. The film adaptation is set for release on August 13, 2010 (which is almost exact same time Julie & Julia came out in 2009!) so that is my plan to have it read by. The protagonist will be played by none other than Julia Roberts.
Time line: Before August 13, 2010

Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling (done!)
Another selection that can't be a surprize for regular muggles readers round here. Last year I had a blast re-watching and reviewing all the Harry Potter films in anticipation for Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. That process also made me realize that I've only read the books one time each, so in anticipation of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 1 (November 19, 2010) I'm going to prep by reading all the books for the second time.
Time line: May to November 2010

The Voyage of the Dawn Treader by C.S. Lewis (read)
In anticipation of the third film in the series, I'll be heading back to the magical world of Narnia for escapist adventure. It's funny because I read Prince Caspian in anticipation for the film, which ironically I didn't love and ended up not even seeing the film theatre but in the end ended up loving the film. Who knew those zany Pevensie siblings get me every time.
Time line: Before December 10, 2010

Maximum Ride Series by James Patterson (complete)
Out of all the selections this one has the least concrete information on the film adaptation. Originally several of the books were going to be the first film, not it looks like it will be 1 to 1. Originally Catherine Hardwicke (Twilight) was set to direct, but now the IMDb Page doesn't have any info listed other than 2010. I'm at a bit of a loss on what's going on but I'm already part way through the series and they are extremely fast reads so I'm just going to keep going. And... who doesn't want to read about mutant avian human hybrids kids & teens? I know I do!
I'll only be reading Books 3 - 5 in the series: Saving the World & Other Extreme Sports, The Final Warning and MAX, as I've already read book 1 & 2: Maximum Ride: The Angel Experiment & Maximum Ride: School's Out Forever
Time line: flexible, will revisit when release date announced

Static Timeline:
The Fellowship of the Ring (February 2010)
The Two Towers (March 2010)
The Return of the King (planned: April 2010, actual: December 2010)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (May 2010)
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (June 2010)
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (July 2010)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (August 2010)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (September 2010)
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (October 2010)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (November 2010)
Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The (timeline: before December 10, 2010)

More Flexible Timelines:
New Moon by Stephenie Meyers (before Wuthering Heights)
Wuthering Heights by Emily Bronte (before Eclipse)
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyers (before June 30, 2010)
Beastly (before July 30, 2010)
Eat, Pray, Love (before August 13, 2010)
The Tempest
Saving the World & Other Extreme Sports (Maximum Ride: Book 3)
Final Warning, The (Maximum Ride: Book 4)
MAX (Maximum Ride: Book 5)

Reviews of Books Read
Beastly
Eat, Pray, Love
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyers (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (re-read)
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (re-read)
Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring
Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers
Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King
Maximum Rider: Book 3 - Saving the World & Other Extreme Sports
Maximum Ride: Book 4 - The Final Warning
Maximum Ride: Book 5 - MAX
New Moon (re-read)
Tempest, The
Voyage of the Dawn Treader, The
Wuthering Heights

For fellow book lovers, feel free to friend me over at GoodReads!

What will you be reading this year?

Poll Results: 3D Films Are...

Although the result are all over the place here, if you look close enough it almost feels like an even split with 40% pro 3D (25% to Awesome When Done Well + 15% to The Wave of the Future) and 60% not so thrilled about 3D (30% to A Fad, 20% to I Can't 'See' the 3D and 10% to A Cash Grab)

Out of all of the results I'm the most surprized with 20% who picked I Can't 'See' the 3D, as when I tell people I can't see the 3D they give me the strangest looks or comments... but as the poll indicates I'm not alone on this one! Something for the filmmakers to consider!

30% - A Fad
25% - Awesome When Done Well
20% - I Can't 'See' the 3D
15% - The Wave of the Future
10% - A Cash Grab

Thanks for voting!

Full Wolf Moon Dreamboard

Here is my Full Moon Dreamboard for this months Full Wolf Moon, and it's only fitting that The Wolfman makes an appearance on it!

See more Dreamboards and inspiration over at Jamie Ridler Studios. You can even make your own Dreamboard for this Full Wolf Moon and linky it up!

It will be interesting to see what this month brings.

Film Reviews - Sword & Sandals

300
Agora
Alexander
Arn: The Knight Templar
Centurion
Clash of the Titans (1981)
Clash of the Titans (2010)
Cleopatra (1963)
Conan the Barbarian
Conan the Destroyer
Eagle, The
Gladiator
Hercules (1983)
Jason in the Argonauts (1963)
Julius Caesar (1953)
Outlander
Pathfinder
Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time
Robin Hood (2010)
Scorpion King, The
Spartacus
Troy

Back to Genre List

Monthly Wallpaper - February 2010: Strange Love

With Valentine's Day at its heart, February is the month for love ... of all kinds.  Therefore, this month's Movie Dearest calendar wallpaper salutes the many kinds of cinematic "strange love", unlikely romances that think outside the box.

And, as seen in several "beauty and the beast" scenarios, sometimes that is outside the species, not to mention love connections that transcend age, class and (surprise) gender differences.  Then there is the undying love (literally) of ghosts and the undead, not to mention the spark of amour that can be ignited between a certain pair of robotic lovebirds.  These may not be your typical examples of film romance, but they sure are some of the most memorable.

All you have to do is click on the picture above to enlarge it, then simply right click your mouse and select "Set as Background". (You can also save it to your computer and set it up from there if you prefer.) The size is 1024 x 768, but you can modify it if needed in your own photo-editing program.

Legion

Dir: Scott Stewart - feature film directorial debut
Cast: Paul Bettany, Dennis Quaid, Adrianne Palicki, Lucas Black, Kevin Durand, Tyrese Gibson, Kate Walsh, Willa Holland, Jon Tenney
USA, 2010

Seen: January 25, 2010

Reason to see: Apocalyptic, Paul Bettany, Angels... I'm there

Legion placed #8 on my list of Most Anticipated Films of the Year, which is quite a feat for a January release which is often full of not the best horror films and festival/awards spill over from the year before which made it all the more fun to trek out to the theatre and be genuinely excited about what I was about to see.

I didn't know a lot about the story going in other than that it had angels, action, inferences to an upcoming apocalypse, probably a prophecy and starred Paul Bettany and all of that sounded great to me! Although I could easily sit here and pick apart the film, especially when it comes to images or ideas that very familiar from other films, that doesn't change the fact that it was really fun to watch. In fact, it's a great film to mull over afterwards because you can pull the parallels to other films but it also raises several of it's own questions and ideas.

I do wish Legion had focused a little more on character development, although several of the actors brought a lot more to their characters than I would have expected. In particular, Tyrese Gibson does a great job throughout the film giving us a something different that I would have expected. But when it comes to characters, Paul Bettany as the angel Michael is the heart of the film bringing us strength, courage and defiance - a temperamental trio that is bold and brewing.

In terms of supernatural/religious based thrilled, it's not up to the level of Constantine being more action centric and not as unique in it's art direction, but it's still a fun ride and one I know I'd be happy to see again and again.

Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it
I'll buy it
I'd recommend it as a fun action film of the supernatural flavour

15 minutes of preshow including 3 commercials and 5 previews: Season of the Witch, Kick-Ass, Hot Tub Time Machine, Death at a Funeral (2010) and Takers

Return to Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2010

Crazy Heart

Dir: Scott Cooper - feature film directorial debut
Cast: Jeff Bridges, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Robert Duvall, Colin Farrell
USA, 2010

Seen: January 15, 2010

Reason to see: The trailer moved me almost to tears

I've sat a little bit on reviewing Crazy Heart, because after seeing it I became stumped on how to express what I thought about it. My initial reaction to the trailer was so strong that it put my expectations rather high, add to that Jeff Bridges has received several acting nominations for his performance, and since then has won not only the Golden Globe (Acting - Drama) but also the Screen Actor's Guild Award. Is it an award worthy performance? Yes it is, I can't deny it that but I'm stuck because it's a story we've seen many times before.

I'm not usually one to complain over seeing one story more than once, and it's not like we will likely every stop seeing films about troubled artists because seeing their journey can often be heartbreaking, inspiring, emotional and showcase their artistry - which is a great story to show in film. But here it feels so very similar to A Star is Born, even though Crazy Heart is based on the novel by Thomas Cobb.

I wasn't connecting as much to this film as I expected so, as much like The Wrestler I didn't feel much empathy to the main character. Do I feel like they are in a tough situation? Yes. Do I think they do anything to change that? Not so much. I think the tolerance level for empathizing with troubled artist is lower than it used to be, or perhaps it is that the expectations are higher.

As the film is character driven, what it does have on it's side is the performances. As already mentioned Jeff Bridges is intense in his performance as country singer Bad Blake. Maggie Gyllenhaal does a great job as well, even though her character's back story as a journalist feels underdeveloped, it actually works in the favour of the film as if it's from Bad Blake's perspective. Colin Farrell was completely compelling in his supporting role, even though I was completely surprized to see him in it as I don't remember seeing that in any of the trailers or promos at all, which is a little strange.

Overall, even though the story felt familiar it is still a powerful journey. But what really stood out for me was the quiet moments of the film, the relationships as they built up tenderly and the awkward moments of truth. But tragedies do hit their marks very well along, all of which felt genuine which made them the harder to watch to see happen.

Shannon's Overall View:
I enjoyed it, but not as much as I expected
I'm not sure I'd watch it again but I'd get the soundtrack
I'd recommend it to fans of music films and those who enjoy watching films for great performances

16 minutes of preshow including 4 commercials and 5 previews: Greenberg, A Prophet, Nowhere Boy, Knight & Day and Date Night

Return to Film Reviews

© Shannon Ridler, 2010

Film Fan Fridays for Friday January 29, 2010

Hello Film Fans and Fanatics!

Welcome to Film Fan Fridays for Friday January 29, 2010! This week we are heavy on the limited releases which include two Canadian films La Donation / The Legacy and Grown Up Movie Star and we also have our first slew of festivals of the year. If you want to keep up to date on upcoming festivals around Toronto I've got you covered - check out the 2010 Toronto Film Festival Listing which has not only this weeks festivals but well festivals into the future as well.

In limited release this week we have 5 releases and 2 of those are Canadian to boot. I'm thrilled to share that the beautiful film La Donation / The Legacy is hitting theatres, it's the third film in Bernard Émond humanist trilogy exploring Faith (La neuvaine), Hope (Contre toute espérance) and now Charity with La Donation but don't let the fact that it's in a series keep you away - you can watch it as a stand alone film if you haven't seen the first two yet, and I highly recommend catching all of them when you can. Next up for Canadian releases is Grown Up Movie Star which is hitting out theatres straight after being at Sundance 2010. Also in limited release is the award winning drama Bliss / Mutluluk, Brazilian thriller Body / Corpo and the documentary The Yes Men Fix the World.

In wide release this week we have just 2 releases. First up is When in Rome a romantic comedy starring Kristen Bell who is unlucky in love and decides to take matters into her own hands and out of a lucky fountain which result in some bizarre results. Also in wide release is Edge of Darkness a crime/thriller of the revenge flavour starring Mel Gibson and Ray Winstone from Casino Royale director Martin Campbell.

Have a great weekend!

Shannon

Festival Watch

The 8 Fest Small-Gauge Film Festival
A festival focusing on small-gauge film including 8mm, Super 8, 9.5mm, loops and zoetropes
January 27 - 31, 2010 at Canadian Corps Headquarters, 201 Niagara Street (Just South of King), in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Caribbean Tales Youth Film Festival
February 2 - 25, 2010 at the William Doo Auditorium, 45 Willcocks Avenue in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Friday January 29, 2010 Releases

Bliss / Mutluluk
Dir: Abdullah Oguz (Sicak, O simdi mahkum)
Cast: Özgü Namal, Talat Bulut, Murat Han
Turkey/Greece
Limited Release
Official Film Site, IMDb Page

Body / Corpo
Writers/Dirs: Rossana Foglia & Rubens Rewald - feature film directorial debuts
Cast: Regiane Alves, Rejane Arruda, Louise Cardoso, Chris Couto, Leonardo Medeiros
Brazil
Limited Release
No Official Film Site or Trailer Found, IMDb Page

La Donation / The Legacy
Dir: Bernard Émond (La neuvaine, Contre toute espérance)
Cast: Élise Guilbault, Jacques Godin, Éric Hoziel, Françoise Graton, Angèle Coutu
Canada
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

Edge of Darkness
Dir: Martin Campbell (The Green Lantern (2011), Casino Royale)
Cast: Mel Gibson, Ray Winstone, Danny Huston, Bojana Novakovic
UK/USA
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page, Trailer

Grown Up Movie Star
Writer/Dir: Adriana Maggs - feature film directorial debut
Cast: Shawn Doyle, Tatiana Maslany, Jonny Harris, Julia Kennedy, Mark O'Brien, Steve Cochrane, Andy Jones
Canada
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

When in Rome
Dir: Mark Steven Johnson (Ghost Rider, Daredevil)
Cast: Kristen Bell, Josh Duhamel, Anjelica Huston, Jon Heder, Will Arnett
USA
Official Film Site, IMDb Page, Trailer

The Yes Men Fix the World
Dirs: Andy Bichlbaum & Mike Bonanno - feature film directorial debuts
Documentary
France/UK/USA
Limited Release
Official Film Site & Trailer, IMDb Page

**please note this list of releases reflects first run film released in Toronto, Ontario, Canada as of January 29, 2010**

Reverend's Reviews: Saint John Not Quite Heavenly

The Church has many saints, and several Saint Johns. Saint John of Las Vegas isn't currently among this heavenly company, but it is a new movie being released in select cities starting today.

Steve Buscemi — veteran of the gay classic Parting Glances and many other memorable films — stars as John, a compulsive gambler who has fled from Las Vegas following a run of bad luck. Now living in the decidedly less-full-of-temptation city of Albuquerque, John works for an auto insurance company headed by Mr. Townsend (the always-enjoyable Peter Dinklage). John also enjoys a flirtatious friendship with his cubicle neighbor, the excessively optimistic Jill (a great turn by comedienne Sarah Silverman).

Mr. Townsend assigns John to investigate a potential fraudulent claim involving a questionable car accident that took place outside Las Vegas. John is hesitant to return there, but the promise of a promotion lures him. Accompanied by Virgil (Romany Malco), the agency's top fraud-debunker, John confronts his addiction through a series of bizarre encounters with nude militants headed by a full-frontal Tim Blake Nelson, a stripper paralyzed from the waist down, and a human torch (played by an unrecognizable John Cho, who played Sulu in the recent Star Trek reboot) stuck inside his flammable outfit, among others.

Saint John of Las Vegas marks the feature debut of writer-director Hue Rhodes. He states in the press notes that this script was inspired by the "surreal" nature of modern corporate life. The film certainly is surreal at times, and simply baffling at others. I'm still not sure the climax's twist and its aftermath add up logically, but I won't give things away here.

Rhodes' effort sports many of the flaws found in filmmakers' freshman efforts, but there is also quite a bit to like. The performances are uniformly excellent and there is an effective, Tarantino-esque balance of humor and menace. The Vegas and New Mexico locations are attractive and well filmed.

This film is also the first production by IndieVest, a promising new independent company. IndieVest's mission/approach is explained in the press notes thusly: "Whereas most independent films are produced with the hopes of securing distribution after they are completed, IndieVest's model involves raising enough financing from its pool of investors (which includes Spike Lee and Stanley Tucci) to pay for both production and an independent theatrical release."

Saint John of Las Vegas is far from perfect, but so were most of the men and women venerated today as saints in heaven. Like them, Hue Rhodes and IndieVest definitely show potential.

UPDATE: Saint John of Las Vegas is now available on DVD from Amazon.com.

Review by Rev. Chris Carpenter, resident film critic of Movie Dearest and the Orange County and Long Beach Blade.

Film Festivals in Toronto - 2010

This is a listing of confirmed dates for film festivals in 2010 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Listings are added throughout the year when dates are confirmed. Want to look ahead? Take a look at the 2009 listing for an idea of how the year may turn out.

January 2010

The 8 Fest Small-Gauge Film Festival
A festival focusing on small-gauge film including 8mm, Super 8, 9.5mm, loops and zoetropes
January 27 - 31, 2010 at Canadian Corps Headquarters, 201 Niagara Street (Just South of King), in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

February 2010

Caribbean Tales Youth Film Festival
February 2 - 25, 2010 at the William Doo Auditorium, 45 Willcocks Avenue in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

3rd Annual Toronto-Romanian Film Festival
February 4 - 7, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Great Digital Film Festival 2010
A selection of classic, cult and popular film shown in digital or High Definition
February 5 - 11, 2010 at Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Reel Paddling Film Festival
February 11, 2010 at the Bloor Cinema, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Reel Artists Film Festival
February 24 - 28, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Human Rights Watch Film Festival
February 24 - March 6, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Taiwan Cinema Yesterday and Today Film Festival
February 26 - 28, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

March 2010

Cinéfranco Youth & Family Program
March 1 - 10, 2010 at The Bloor Cinema in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

World of Comedy Film Festival
March 5 - 7, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Canadian Music Week Film Festival
March 12 - 13, 2010 at NFB, 150 John St., in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

UofT Film Festival
March 13, 2010 at Hart House in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Japanese Short Film Festival
March 18 - 21, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Muck
Festival of Movies of Un-Common Knowledge, films that challenge us and views of the world around us.
March 21, 2010 at The Royal in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

The Female Eye Film Festival
March 24 – 28, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Banff Mountain Film Festival
March 26 - 28, 2010 at the Bloor Cinema in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Cinéfranco
13th Annual Celebration of International Francophone Cinema
March 26 - April 3, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

April 2010

Images Festival
Festival of independent film, video and other time-based media
April 1 - 10, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Silent Film Festival
April 6 - 15, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Reelworld Film Festival
Festival celebrating diversity in film, video, and new media
April 7 - 11, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Tibet Film Festival
April 9 - 10, 2010 at the Bloor Cinema in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Sprockets
Toronto International Film Festival for Children
April 17 - 23, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Jewish Film Festival
April 17 - 25, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

May 2010

Hot Docs
Canadian International Documentary Film Festival
April 29 - May 9, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Ryerson University Film Festival
5th annual presentation of films by the graduating class at Ryerson University
May 14 - 16, 2010 at The Royal in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Russian Film Festival (TRFF)
May 14 - 16, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Inside Out
20th Annual Toronto Lesbian and Gay Film and Video Festival
May 20 - 30, 2010 in various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

2010 Student Film Showcase
May 26, 2010 at the AMC Yonge & Dundas

June 2010

Worldwide Short Film Festival

June 1 - 6, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Doc Now.ca Festival
Film, Photography & New Media
June 7 - 26 2010, at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Luminato
Toronto Festival of Arts + Creativity
June 11 - 20, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

North by Northeast Music and Film Festival & Conference (NXNE)
June 16 - 20, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

ReelHeART International Film Festival
On Hiatus for 2010 (more info here)

Muck
Festival of Movies of Un-Common Knowledge, films that challenge us and views of the world around us.
June 20, 2010 at The Royal in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Parkdale Film and Video Showcase
June 25 - 27, 2010 at various locations in Parkdale in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

July 2010

Toronto Youth Shorts Film Festival
July 14 - 17, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Singapore Film Festival
July 16 -17, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Bite Me! Film Festival
Toronto International Body Image Film and Arts Festival
July 17 - 18, 2010 at the NFB in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Shinsedai Cinema Festival
The New Generation of Japanese Film Festival
July 22 - 25, 2010 at The Japanese Canadian Cultural Centre, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Human Rights Doc Fest
July 23 - 25, 2010 at The NFB, 150 John St., in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Caribbean Tales Film Festival
July 30 - August 2, 2010, at Harbourfront in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

August 2010

Toronto After Dark Film Festival
Horror, Sci-Fi, Action & Cult Film Festival
August 13 - 20, 2010 at the Bloor Cinema, Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Queer West Film Festival
August 14, 2010 at the Revue Cinema in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Fan Expo
August 27 - 29, 2010 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

September 2010

Toronto Independent Film Festival
Festival of Independent Filmmaking
September 8 - 18, 2010, at the Toronto Underground Cinema in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto International Film Festival
September 9 - 19, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Urban Film Festival
Collection of 1 minute silent films shown on the TTC
September 10 - 19, 2010 on TTC subway platforms in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Brazilian Film Festival of Toronto
September 23 -26, 2010 at The Bloor location in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

COMMFFEST
(Global) Community Film Festival
September 23 -26, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Canadian Sport Film Festival
September 30 - October 2, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Filmi
South Asian Film Festival
September 30 - October 2, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Indie Can Film Festival
Indie Can is a film festival that screens non-judged independent films
September 30 - October 2, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

October 2010

Toronto Palestine Film Festival
October 2 - 8, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Hispano-American Film Festival
Spanish language film festival featuring dramas, comedies, and documentaries from Spanish speaking countries
October 7 - 16, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

EnRoute Film Festival 2010
Featuring short film from emerging Canadian filmmakers, which are broadcast on Air Canada
Wednesday October 13, 2010 at the Scotiabank Theatre in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Planet in Focus Film Festival
International Environmental Film and Video Festival
October 13 - 17, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Est Docs
Estonian Documentary Film Festival
October 15 - 22, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Moving Image Film Festival
This festival focus is to welcome fusion and clash of different genres and the experimentation of moving images
October 15 - 17, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Macedonian Film Festival
October 16 - 17, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Brazil Film Fest
October 21 - 24, 2010 at the The Royal in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival
Celebrating works of Indigenous peoples from around the world
October 20 - 24, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Israel Film Festival
October 24 - 28, 2010 at the Sheppard Grande in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

International Diaspora Film Festival
October 28 - November 6, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

November 2010

Regent Park Film Festival
A free event with complimentary childcare
November 3 - 6, 2010 at Lord Dufferin Public School in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Rendezvous with Madness Film Festival
Films focusing on mental health and addiction
November 5 - 13, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto International Portuguese Film Festival
November 5 - 7, 2010 at Casa Do Alentejo in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Reel Asian International Film Festival
November 9 - 15, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

aluCine
Toronto Latin Media Festival
November 18 - 21, 2010 at various locations in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Reel Awareness
Human Rights Film Festival
November 18 - 21, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

European Union Film Festival
November 18 - 30, 2010 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Breast Fest Film Festival
Film festival dedicated to breast cancer awareness
November 19 - 21, 2010 at the Royal Ontario Museum in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Ekran
Toronto Polish Film Festival
November 19 - 21, 2010 at The Revue in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Toronto Creole Film Festival
November 19 - 21, 2010 at Jackman Hall at the AGO in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Canadian Labour International Film Festival
November 20 - 28, 2010 at Innis Town Hall in Toronto, Ontario, Canada

Do you know about a festival or screening not on the list? Contact me by email

Conan the Destroyer

Dir: Richard Fleischer (Red Sonja, Soylent Green)
Based on the stories by Robert E. Howard
Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, Mako, Grace Jones, Olivia d'Abo, Wilt Chamberlain, Tracey Walter, Sarah Douglas
USA, 1984

Revisited: January 27, 2010

Reason to Watch & Review: For the Sword & Sandal Marathon*

The general consensus on the Conan films seems to be that Conan the Barbarian is awesome, and Conan the Destroyer sucks, which means it's not all that fair that I watched the films back to back. But, I knew I liked Conan the Destroyer more than most and there are certain scenes and characters that will always shine through for me.

While watching, I kept wondering to myself "What is it that makes people not like this film?", and then it became abundantly clear. The effects. Oh boy. I'm willing to give films the benefit of the doubt, acknowledge the time period and limitations, but not here. It's a mere 2 years after Conan the Barbarian yet the effects are so much worse, and in part it's the choices they made of when and where to use them because have to say that they were not great choices. This is one challenge that all fantasy/historical films that have a magical element face - how will you show something that doesn't exist in reality, be it a creature, a place or an occurrence. In Conan the Destroyer all the times they used effects I had to contain laughter. It also moved the sorcery element from feeling powerful and mythical to more sideshow and goofy. Add to that some of the fighting feels straight up an 80's WWF wrestling match, and I was dumbfounded.

It's also seemed to reverse good choice that were made in the first film - instead of little dialogue, we get a fair amount of dialogue. Instead of just a few comedic moments (mostly unintentional) we have a whole character dedicated to comic relief which actually wasn't so bad. Instead of working with beautiful locations, we get created sets and effects. Play to the strengths, not the other way around!

That being said I can forgive the film a lot simply for Grace Jones' character Zula, a fierce warrior who fights with unmatched energy and vigour. What I love about that character is she never gives up, never complains, is extremely capable and goes for what she wants - it's awesome. Of course the film tempers by having a Princess Jehnna, played by Olivia d'Abo, who is part of a prophecy and I was worried that that would get a little Temple of Doom-like with her being whiny, but that isn't really the case although her isolation of the world in general leads to lots of awkward comedy about men and women which provided more comic relief that really didn't feel necessary.

Overall, it's true that it's no where near as good as Conan the Barbarian, but there is enough in there for it to be an enjoyable and fun watch.

Shannon's Overall View:
I didn't love it but I love the things that I love about it
I own it
I'd recommend it as a light/fun adventure film

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© Shannon Ridler, 2010

* The Sword & Sandal Marathon is a 13 week marathon exploring sword & sandal films in anticipation of the 2010 release of Clash of the Titans (2010)

Conan the Barbarian

Dir: John Milius (Red Dawn, Flight of the Intruder)
Based on the stories by Robert E. Howard
Cast: Arnold Schwarzenegger, James Earl Jones, Sandahl Bergman, Mako, Ben Davidson, Max von Sydow
USA, 1982

Revisited: January 26, 2010

Reason to Watch & Review: For the Sword & Sandal Marathon*

Revisiting Conan the Barbarian was such a treat as I have lots of fond memories of it from growing up, but I found myself having to really stop and focus on watching the film because I've seen it so many times that it took effort to really 'see' it. It's strange - I haven't had that happens since I revisited Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone, who knew these two films would have anything in common?

This is an epic movie on many levels, from the epic journey of the main character to the fantastic world it is set in with magic and sorcery. One of the things I love most about Conan the Barbarian is that it really plays to it's strengths and doesn't let possible weaknesses gets in the way. It's a great adventure story, which is sets up through narration and follows through with action which visual takes us for a right for the majority of the journey. I'd admit that the dialogue isn't fantastic but it keeps it brief and what we are left either works well or at the very least is pretty amusing. The film also plays the epic card very well with fantastic locations, impressive sets and iconic heroes and villains. The score is powerful and really amps up the charging energy at all the right moments.

Out of the sword & sandal films so far, I'm surprized to say that Conan is the least likable character. Not that I disliked him, but when you sit down and think about it he's not a terrific guy (hence: Barbarian) and this film is primarily based on revenge as opposed to overall good vs evil theme. I almost didn't notice this about his character because it's tempered by Arnold Schwarzenegger charisma which brings a lot to the screen.

A huge bonus to the film is getting to see the character of Valeria, played by Sandahl Bergman, who is a thief by definition but plays out as a warrior. She is the first to jump into action, fearless, resourceful and can fight to boot. It's always welcome to have strong female characters and she is a fantastic one. The fighting overall it pretty awesome combining creativity with straight up skill for impressive and inventive results. It's didn't feel that gory overall although there are some pretty intense moments, I was surprized to see the DVD had an R rating but perhaps that is due to to the nudity and not violence.

Overall it's a great adventure and one that I'm sure to revisit again and again.

Shannon's Overall View:
I loved it
I own it
I'd recommend it as a great adventure/sword & sandals film

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© Shannon Ridler, 2010

* The Sword & Sandal Marathon is a 13 week marathon exploring sword & sandal films in anticipation of the 2010 release of Clash of the Titans

Avatar Stays Strong in Week 6: Canadian, North American, UK & Australian Box Office January 22, 2010 Weekend

I feel like I'm running out of things to say about Avatar and the box office, although this was the first week when I was at the theatre it wasn't listed as sold out. I wonder how many folks are going back and revisiting it vs first time views. So far it's showing no signs of not being the top pick out there. Legion came in as #2 in Canada and North America, although it didn't open as strong as The Book of Eli. Invictus opens strong in Australia landing at #3 in it's first week, new on the UK charts are Brothers and Un prophète which land at #9 and #10 in their debut week. Un prophète will open here February 19, 2010.

Top 20 Movies in Canada for the January 22, 2010 weekend
1. Avatar
2. Legion *
3. Tooth Fairy *
4. The Book of Eli
5. Sherlock Holmes
6. The Lovely Bones
7. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
8. It's Complicated
9. Extraordinary Measures *
10. The Spy Next Door
11. Up In the Air
12. Leap Year
13. The Metropolitan Opera: Les contes d'Hoffmann
14. The Blind Side
15. Daybreakers
16. Youth in Revolt
17. The Princess and the Frog
18. A Single Man
19. Invictus
20. Nine

Top 20 Movies in North America for the January 22, 2010 weekend
1. Avatar
2. Legion *
3. The Book of Eli
4. Tooth Fairy *
5. The Lovely Bones
6. Sherlock Holmes
7. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
8. Extraordinary Measures *
9. It's Complicated
10. The Spy Next Door
11. The Blind Side
12. Up In the Air
13. Leap Year
14. Daybreakers
15. To Save a Life *
16. Crazy Heart
17. The Princess and the Frog
18. Youth in Revolt
19. The Young Victoria
20. A Single Man

Top 10 Movies in the UK for the January 22, 2010 weekend
1. Avatar
2. Sherlock Holmes
3. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakquel
4. Up in the Air
5. It's Complicated
6. Toy Story 2
7. The Book of Eli
8. Daybreakers
9. Brothers *
10. Un prophète *

Top 20 Movies in Australia for the January 21 - 24 2010 weekend
1. Avatar
2. Tooth Fairy
3. Invictus *
4. It's Complicated
5. Up in the Air
6. Sherlock Holmes
7. Bran Nue Dae
8. Alvin and the Chipmunks: The Squeakuel
9. Nine *
10. The Princess and the Frog
11. Toy Story 1 & 2 in 3D *
12. Old Dogs
13. The Lovely Bones
14. Fantastic Mr. Fox
15. In the Loop *
16. Bright Star
17. Nowhere Boy
18. An Education
19. Did You Hear About the Morgans?
20. Veer *

* indicates opening weekend in noted location

Source: Canada & North America info, UK info, Australia Info

Off the Shelf: Drama Queers!

If you, like me, spent your teen years obsessing over getting into the next high school musical, you'll find a lot to identify with — and enjoy — in Drama Queers!

Author Frank Anthony Polito's fab follow up to his debut novel Band Fags!, Drama Queers! recounts in loving detail the trials and tribulations of, you guessed it, being a "drama queer".  Stuck in the "sorry little suburb" of Hazel Park, Michigan circa 1987, Polito's semi-autobiographical protagonist, Bradley James Dayton, yearns to be a star of stage and screen ... but first he has to graduate from "Hillbilly High".  Complicating matters is his reluctance to be an "openly gay actor", a situation not made any easier when the senior falls for a cute sophomore who also happens to be his chief rival for the lead in the next school play.  And that's just a hint of all the "drama" in this drama department.

Enriching Polito's first-person narrative is a steady stream of pop culture references familiar to anyone who grew up in the 80's, from Jane Seymour's Somewhere in Time monologue to the love theme from Ice Castles. Take it from a fellow member of the Class of '87, Drama Queers! is one "totally awesome" flashback you'll want to take.

UPDATE: Congratulations to Frank and Drama Queers!, winner of the Lambda Literary Foundation Award for "Best Gay Romance" of 2009!

Reverend's Reviews: British Invasion

The British are coming, but this time they aren't sporting redcoats and muskets. Instead, they have Rupert Everett in drag and two hot, female singer-songwriters in their arsenal. Having sampled this assortment, I predict the Brits will have a better run in the colonies in 2010 than they did 230+ years ago!

First up is the DVD release today of the delightful St. Trinian's, from Sony Pictures Home Entertainment. One of the highest-grossing independent British films of all time, it features the openly gay Everett and an all-star cast of gay faves including Colin Firth (the current A Single Man), Stephen Fry (Wilde) and Toby Jones, who played Truman in that "other" Capote biopic, Infamous. In addition, British comedian Russell Brand (Forgetting Sarah Marshall) disguises himself in one scene as a flamboyantly gay count.

Everett actually plays two roles in St. Trinian's: the dotty Camilla Fritton, martini-swilling headmistress of the title high school for girls, and her conniving brother. Mr. Fritton has just enrolled his daughter, Annabelle (Talulah Riley), at St. Trinian's, where she is quickly set upon by the school's assortment of troubled teens. These include the Emos (short for "emotionally unstable," Goth-looking girls), the Posh Totty sorority of spoiled pretty girls, and the Chavs, an entrepreneurial clique of multi-ethnic young ladies who have developed, among other things, designer tampons.

St. Trinian's poor reputation draws the attention of Britain's new Minister of Education, who is played by Firth. Intent on shutting the bankrupt, under-achieving school down, the minister's plans are complicated by his romantic history with Camilla as well as the students' scheme to raise money to save their school ... by stealing and selling Vermeer's "Girl with a Pearl Earring" painting. Or, as one of the dimmer girls incredulously inquires, "We're going to steal Scarlett Johansson?"

Indeed, that 2003 movie (which starred Firth in addition to Johansson) and a host of other contemporary British films serve as fodder for some of the best lines and jokes in St. Trinian's. When Ms. Fritton and Firth's Education Minister meet and recognize each other, they declare of their prior relationship, "It was another time, another country." This references the acclaimed 1984 film Another Country, in which they co-starred and Everett played a homosexual spy. St. Trinian's script also includes witty jabs at the Harry Potter series, among other targets.

The movie is based on a series of comical drawings, "The Girls of St. Trinian's," by Ronald Searle, which were previously adapted into successful British film series in the 1950's and 60's. This new, randier version is directed and produced by Oliver Parker, who was behind the recent hit films of Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest and An Ideal Husband. With its great cast, funny script and rockin' soundtrack, you definitely ought to check it out.

Corinne Bailey Rae and V.V. Brown are the armed-and-dangerous chanteuses "crossing the pond" to the US. Bailey Rae burst onto the international music scene in 2006 with her pop-rock, self-titled debut album. The CD topped the UK charts in its first week of release and sold nearly 2 million copies in the states. It was also nominated for three 2007 Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Song of the Year.

Life dealt Bailey Rae a considerable setback while preparing her follow up, The Sea, which is out today on EMI's Capitol Records. The singer's husband, Jason Rae, died from an accidental drug overdose in 2008. He was 31 years old. An article on Bailey Rae in the January 22, 2010 issue of Entertainment Weekly details her loss and struggle to overcome it.

The Sea is a more melancholy, jazz-leaning recording than her debut, but it is a gorgeous achievement both lyrically and sonically. Bailey Rae wrote most of the songs herself, with collaborators on three of them. "Are You Here" and "I'd Do It All Again" are standouts, and I like "The Blackest Lily" and "Love's On Its Way" a lot as well. I anticipate more Grammy nominations for this album, and they won't be out of sympathy.

Take equal parts Amy Winehouse and Pink, throw in a jigger of Crystal Waters, shake, pour and top with a dollop of Shirley Bassey, and you'll begin to approximate the musical stylings of newcomer V.V. Brown. This Brit's first CD, Travelling Like the Light, won't be released in the US until March 16. However, it will be available for purchase as an iTunes exclusive for six weeks beginning February 2. It is, in a word, FABULOUS, and I'm so grateful to my PR friend Ryan in NYC for introducing me to V.V. and forwarding an advance copy of her CD on to me.

Brown's songs are decidedly retro, sampling 1940's jitterbug, 50's doo-wop and early 90's techno, among other genres. Virtually all of her tunes will make you want to dance and bring a smile to your face simultaneously. My personal favorites are "Shark in the Water," "Bottles," "I Love You" and the title track.

Both V.V. Brown and Corrine Bailey Rae are currently touring certain US cities, so be on the lookout for them should they invade a club near you. And buy their CDs, damn it! The Queen will thank you.

Review by Rev. Chris Carpenter, resident film critic of Movie Dearest and the Orange County and Long Beach Blade.

DVD Releases: January 26, 2010

It's Tuesday which means it's DVD Day! Let's have a look at a selection of the films that are being released on DVD today.

There are two titles that are heading straight to my wish list this week as both made my Favourite Films of 2009 list and they are Drew Barrymore's director debut roller derby awesomeness of Whip It and Little Ashes the Salvador Dalí, Federico García Lorca and Luis Buñuel relationship biopic starring Robert Pattinson, Javier Beltrán and Matthew McNulty respectively. Both films are rich in characters who go through compelling journeys and also have awesome music.

Several films that are coming out that I only know little bits about but still am very curious include the festival buzz film Import Export, Canadian film The Timekeeper / L'heure de vérité starring Roy Dupuis, one of two Clive Owen releases of the day The Boys are Back, concert film of the 1974 concert in Zaire Soul Power and documentary Prom Night in Mississippi.

Interesting looking films that got a wider release that are coming to DVD include thriller/romance starring Julia Roberts & Clive Owen Duplicity, acclaimed animated film Mary and Max, romcom Ghost of Girlfriends Past, sci-fi thriller Surrogates and the fourth in the street racing series that welcomes back it's original cast Fast & Furious.

Also out this week is Michael Jackson's This is It, TV show remade for big screen Land of the Lost, book to film adaptation I Hope They Serve Beer in Hell and thriller Last House on the Left.

Titles on Amazon.ca (Canada):


Titles on Amazon.com (US), if available:


The Timekeeper / L'heure de vérité & Mary and Max have no current US release date