The Sundance Film Festival is just days away from kicking off and while I hope you don't forget to keep an eye out for our in depth preview of the documentaries of the festival, I'm sure most of you are already pining for any possible nugget coming out of Park City, Utah.
Luckily for you, The festival's founder, Robert Redford, took time last week to talk to NPR about Sundance and why he's committed to featuring documentaries. I've got to hand it to the man, while his festival has become quite mainstream (in terms of popularity), it still remains true to independent filmmakers (particularly documentaries) and has really become a great launching pad for films that would have otherwise gone unnoticed.
Head on over to NPR's website to catch the interview and see why Sundance has become the greatest thing for documentaries since... well... affordable cameras.
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Monday, January 9, 2012
Oscars to tighten rules for documentaries
In case you missed today's major news, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences says it will start requiring a review from The New York Times or The Los Angeles Times for a film to qualify for its documentary feature category. The new rule will be officially announced later this week and will take effect for the 2013 awards.
This is a major blow to documentary fans hoping to see the Oscars move in a more populist direction. Count this site as one of those bemoaning this change as it also will only serve to allow the rich to get richer. Most documentaries don't get a review unless there's a big name or big budget behind it- or if it gains just the right type of buzz to lure a critic into a screening.
Admittedly, the rule change was probably necessary for the Academy's small (in comparison to other Oscar groups) documentary award staff. With cheaper equipment, a growing cult fan base and groups willing to help push films through the current rule process, the number of submissions for the category have been rising quickly. A staff already stretched thin had to find a way to curtail their ever growing work load.
The rule will also eliminate the complex and stifling rating system used to select the Oscar documentary nominees. The main change is allowing the committee to see screeners of films instead of forcing them to see films only in theaters - a major bonus for small budget films that can only afford to play in theaters for a week or two. Still, these small budget films need to get reviewed before this change even matters.
Ultimately, the rule changes will hurt many filmmakers looking for validation from the Oscars. The documentary industry is not a lucrative place to work unless you manage to make a name for yourself and even a nomination to the Oscars is a big deal (see Morgan Spurlock). So, for the time being, it seems small, independent filmmakers won't have much of a shot at cracking the tighter rules unless these two papers designate a critic specifically to documentaries - which is highly unlikely as they are struggling to keep pace with the changing climate of media news.
This is a major blow to documentary fans hoping to see the Oscars move in a more populist direction. Count this site as one of those bemoaning this change as it also will only serve to allow the rich to get richer. Most documentaries don't get a review unless there's a big name or big budget behind it- or if it gains just the right type of buzz to lure a critic into a screening.
Admittedly, the rule change was probably necessary for the Academy's small (in comparison to other Oscar groups) documentary award staff. With cheaper equipment, a growing cult fan base and groups willing to help push films through the current rule process, the number of submissions for the category have been rising quickly. A staff already stretched thin had to find a way to curtail their ever growing work load.
The rule will also eliminate the complex and stifling rating system used to select the Oscar documentary nominees. The main change is allowing the committee to see screeners of films instead of forcing them to see films only in theaters - a major bonus for small budget films that can only afford to play in theaters for a week or two. Still, these small budget films need to get reviewed before this change even matters.
Ultimately, the rule changes will hurt many filmmakers looking for validation from the Oscars. The documentary industry is not a lucrative place to work unless you manage to make a name for yourself and even a nomination to the Oscars is a big deal (see Morgan Spurlock). So, for the time being, it seems small, independent filmmakers won't have much of a shot at cracking the tighter rules unless these two papers designate a critic specifically to documentaries - which is highly unlikely as they are struggling to keep pace with the changing climate of media news.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Louder Than a Bomb premiers Thursday, 9pm
Yes, it’s a new year, but I’m assuming the new work week has already left you stuck in the same old rut. Well, luckily for you there’s always a new movie to help lift your spirits and inspire change. If you need a good pick me up story that’s not your standard sappy Hollywood affair, look no further than Louder Than A Bomb.
Directed by Greg Jacobs & Jon Siskel, this documentary follows four schools preparing for the annual Louder Than A Bomb poetry slam competition. After watching an advanced screening, I couldn’t agree more with the film’s summary: “This is not ‘high school poetry’ as we often think of it. This is language as a joyful release, irrepressibly talented teenagers obsessed with making words dance.”
If you need more details, head to the film's official site. Otherwise, make sure to set your schedules now so you don’t miss out on a documentary that will help you kick the year off right.
Louder Than a Bomb premiers Thursday, January 5 at 9pm (Eastern Time) on the Oprah Winfrey Network- and don’t hate on OWN, they have got an excellent line up of documentaries this year.
Directed by Greg Jacobs & Jon Siskel, this documentary follows four schools preparing for the annual Louder Than A Bomb poetry slam competition. After watching an advanced screening, I couldn’t agree more with the film’s summary: “This is not ‘high school poetry’ as we often think of it. This is language as a joyful release, irrepressibly talented teenagers obsessed with making words dance.”
If you need more details, head to the film's official site. Otherwise, make sure to set your schedules now so you don’t miss out on a documentary that will help you kick the year off right.
Louder Than a Bomb premiers Thursday, January 5 at 9pm (Eastern Time) on the Oprah Winfrey Network- and don’t hate on OWN, they have got an excellent line up of documentaries this year.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Trailer: Born and Bred
Whether it's Rocky, The Fighter, Million Dollar Baby or any number of other similar films, it's hard to deny the power of a good boxing flick. Sure the actual boxing industry has taken a turn for the worse in recent years, but that doesn't stop American audiences from enjoying the story of a fighter (both in and out of the ring).
Justin Frimmer makes his directorial debut with his own boxing film: Born and Bred. His documentary takes a unique twist on the old fighters tale by following children as they learn the ropes. And if you think it's going to be all light and fluffy, think again, I doubt I've seen more broken noses in a film trailer since... well... you don't see many broken noses, except in Frimmer's film.
So if you are looking to glimpse at the future of boxing or you just want another great boxing film to enjoy, head over to Born and Bred's official site: http://www.bornandbredmovie.com. Catch the trailer and see when it will be available at a theater near you.
Justin Frimmer makes his directorial debut with his own boxing film: Born and Bred. His documentary takes a unique twist on the old fighters tale by following children as they learn the ropes. And if you think it's going to be all light and fluffy, think again, I doubt I've seen more broken noses in a film trailer since... well... you don't see many broken noses, except in Frimmer's film.
So if you are looking to glimpse at the future of boxing or you just want another great boxing film to enjoy, head over to Born and Bred's official site: http://www.bornandbredmovie.com. Catch the trailer and see when it will be available at a theater near you.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
SIlverdocs... award winners!
Yesterday I mentioned my favorites from Silverdocs, but of course, my word is not the official word, and frankly, it doesn't really count. Yesterday though, the festival announced its winners and DocFilmOnline would be remiss not to share those with you, so without further adieu:
Sterling Award for Best US Feature - Our School, directed by Mona Nicoara and Miruna Coco-Cozma.
- Special Jury Mention - The Bully Project, directed by Lee Hirsch.
- Special Jury Mention - When The Drum Is Beating ,directed by Whitney Dow.
Sterling Award for Best World Feature - Family Instinct, directed by Andris Gauja.
- Special Jury Mention - Position Among The Stars, directed by Leonard Retel Helmrich.
Sterling Award for Best Short Film - Guanape Sur, directed by János Richter
- Special Jury Mention - Still Here, directed by Alex Camilleri.
Cinematic Vision Award - Life In A Day, directed by Kevin MacDonald.
WGA Documentary Screenplay Award - The Loving Story, written by Nancy Buirski and Susie Ruth Powell.
Audience Award for Best Feature - Donor Unknown, directed by Jerry Rothwell.
Audience Award for Best Short Film - Mr. Happy Man, directed by Matt Morris.
The festival juries consisted of:
- Sterling US Feature Jury: Claire Aguilar, Programming VP, Independent Television Service; Chico Colvard, Filmmaker (Family Affair); Shannon Kelley, Head of Public Programs for the UCLA Film and Television Archive.
- Sterling World Feature Jury: Sean Farnel, former Programming Director, Hot Docs; Eugene Hernandez, Director of Digital Strategy, Film Society of Lincoln Center; Karina Longworth, Editor, LA Weekly.
- Sterling Short Film Jury: Sadie Tillery, Programming Director, Full Frame; Eva Weber, Filmmaker (Steel Homes); José Rodriquez, Program Associate, Tribeca Film Institute.
Monday, June 27, 2011
SIlverdocs... wrap up
So a few personal issues cut the week long festivities short, but I can't help but be pleased with the part of Silverdocs I was able to experience. Now admittedly, there were too many good documentaries and too little time to see everything I hoped to see, but of the ones I watched I was quite impressed.
But enough gushing from me, you want to know which films are worth seeing, right? Well, of course we'll have reviews of each and every film as soon as they can be posted, but in the meantime, here is the list of films I saw in order of favorite to least favorite. Now, as I mentioned, the documentaries were so good, even the ones toward the bottom of this list are worth seeing. So while they are ranked, know that I really wouldn't hesitate to recommend any of them.
But enough gushing from me, you want to know which films are worth seeing, right? Well, of course we'll have reviews of each and every film as soon as they can be posted, but in the meantime, here is the list of films I saw in order of favorite to least favorite. Now, as I mentioned, the documentaries were so good, even the ones toward the bottom of this list are worth seeing. So while they are ranked, know that I really wouldn't hesitate to recommend any of them.
- Miss Representation - I never would have expected feminism to be so enthralling... and educational.
- Jiro Dreams of Sushi - Beautifully shot with mouthwatering images of delicious sushi.
- Fire on Babylon - A last minute whim turned out to be a gem of the festival. Cricket fans rejoice!
- Beats, Rhymes & Life: The Travels of A Tribe Called Quest - Fans will love it and newbie's will wish they were cool enough to already be fans.
- At the Edge of Russia - A coming of age tale where everything is meaningless.
- The Loving Story - It's more romance than political history, but this is still worth seeing.
- The Black Power Mixtape 1967–1975 - A compelling premise uses some odd stylistic choices, that limit it potential.
- Sound it Out - A simple film of obsession music lovers can truly support.
- The First Movie - A bit too artsy for some, yet this will still make you smile.
- The Price of Sex - A tough pill to swallow, but worth reflecting on.
- When the Drum is Beating - A unique idea that failed to meet high expectations.
- The Night Watchman - A great idea with some good sequences, but never comes together in any meaningful way.
Friday, June 24, 2011
SIlverdocs... Day 3
Just when Silverdocs couldn't top itself with great film selections, Day 3 rolls around and we're left blown away. The films were so good we really couldn't pick a clear favorite for the day so we just decided to highlight the five films in a brief and enjoyable way.
Sound It Out - Ever want to know what a real life High Fidelity character looks/sounds/acts like? Well definitely check out this low budget but high quality documentary to get your local record shop fix.
At The Edge of Russia - It's like a coming of age story... but only if the coming of age story feels completely meaningless. Siberia may be the backdrop for this film, but the characters carry the beauty and humor audiences will love.
The Loving Story - Stories of love and political strife are blended beautifully together in this documentary. You'll leave feeling inspired about the change they caused, but it's the love story that will leave you all warm and fuzzy inside.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi - Some of the most beautiful footage seen all festival. Yes, you'll leave wanting Sushi, but you'll also love the characters- especially Jiro, who is both unrelenting and hard, but also warm and surprisingly hilarious.
The Black Power Mixtape - A well pieced montage of the African American struggle in the U.S. between 1967 and 1975. It's less about the facts and more about the viewpoint (specifically the Swedes who filmed the events) and it's a great piece of historical narrative most will enjoy.
Sound It Out - Ever want to know what a real life High Fidelity character looks/sounds/acts like? Well definitely check out this low budget but high quality documentary to get your local record shop fix.
At The Edge of Russia - It's like a coming of age story... but only if the coming of age story feels completely meaningless. Siberia may be the backdrop for this film, but the characters carry the beauty and humor audiences will love.
The Loving Story - Stories of love and political strife are blended beautifully together in this documentary. You'll leave feeling inspired about the change they caused, but it's the love story that will leave you all warm and fuzzy inside.
Jiro Dreams of Sushi - Some of the most beautiful footage seen all festival. Yes, you'll leave wanting Sushi, but you'll also love the characters- especially Jiro, who is both unrelenting and hard, but also warm and surprisingly hilarious.
The Black Power Mixtape - A well pieced montage of the African American struggle in the U.S. between 1967 and 1975. It's less about the facts and more about the viewpoint (specifically the Swedes who filmed the events) and it's a great piece of historical narrative most will enjoy.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
SIlverdocs... Day 2
Another day and still more great films at the Silverdocs Festival here in Silver Spring, Maryland.
The favorite from the day two screenings was definitely Jennifer Siebel Newson's Missrepresentation. This look at women's portrayal in media wasn't just full of great research and interviews, it was highly stylized and (dare I say?) entertaining. There are plenty of comparison's to an Alex Gibney documentary here and that is certainly not a bad thing. So unless you truly hate women, I suggest checking out Missrepresentation as soon as possible, it's engaging, informative and totally worth the price to screen.
The favorite from the day two screenings was definitely Jennifer Siebel Newson's Missrepresentation. This look at women's portrayal in media wasn't just full of great research and interviews, it was highly stylized and (dare I say?) entertaining. There are plenty of comparison's to an Alex Gibney documentary here and that is certainly not a bad thing. So unless you truly hate women, I suggest checking out Missrepresentation as soon as possible, it's engaging, informative and totally worth the price to screen.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
SIlverdocs... Day 1
The first day we were able to catch three pretty good films, but the night cap was Michael Rapaport's Beats Rhymes & Life: The Travels Of A Tribe Called Quest, a documentary about A Tribe Called Quest. This is Rapaport's first directorial debut, but his love for the band and the hip hop genre comes through quite clearly. If you are a hip hop fan or just looking for a good film to get you grooving, definitely check this documentary out. It's certainly not perfect and it's not a mere love fest for the band, but it is everything you'd hope for in covering early 90s hip hop.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Silverdocs begins!
DFO is in Washington D.C. this week for the Silverdocs Film Festival (ok, technically, the festival is in Silver Springs, Maryland, but than you non East-Coasters would be all confused and I'd have to explain that it's near D.C. and then we'd be wasting time explaining directions to the festival instead of just talking about it).
This week will be full of numerous documentaries (many we are quite excited about) so if you are in the D.C. area, definitely take some time to enjoy this wonderful festival. If you aren't able to make it, well that's why we're here. We'll provide you with daily updates of our favorite films and (of course) reviews of all the films we were able to see.
So get ready for a documentary overload!
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