Sundance 2011 kicked off Thursday night and there's already plenty of news to discuss. So let's dive into it:
- Sony Pictures Worldwide acquired the U.S. and Canadian rights to Morgan Spurlock’s latest documentary The Greatest Movie Ever Sold. The documentary becomes the first success story of films seeking distributors and it hasn't even premiered yet (screening this Saturday)! The Greatest Movie Ever Sold focuses on product placement in entertainment and . Currently, Sony plans on releasing the film in early April.
- Sundance first major film? That's right, a documentary. Ok, technically three other films also kicked off the festival last night, but still, it's nice to see the documentary love coming from the great champion of independent cinema. What was the film? Why none other then Sing Your Song, a documentary following 83-year-old singer Harry Belafonte. Are you intrigued? I know I certainly am.
- Earlier this week, The Ford Foundation announced a five-year plan to pour $50 million into documentaries. The program, called JustFilms, plans to distribute money in several ways, including donations to festival workshops and funding individual films. If your a filmmaker (or just curious) head on over to their website for more details: www.fordfoundation.org/justfilms
Friday, January 21, 2011
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Sundance Jurors Selected
Earlier this week, Sundance Film Festival announced its Jury members for their upcoming festival. Now Sundance covers every genre but we only really care about the documentaries, so if you want to read about the other Jury members, head on over to www.sundance.org/festival.
From Sundance:
U.S. DOCUMENTARY JURY
- Jeffrey Blitz directed the documentary Spellbound, Lucky and multiple episodes of NBC's "The Office."
- Matt Groening created the longest-running comedy in television history…The Simpsons.
- Laura Poitras is working on a trilogy of films about America post 9/11. The first two films, My Country, My Country and The Oath, have already received numerous awards.
- Jess Search is the Chief Executive of the Channel 4 BRITDOC Foundation which has given funding and support to over 60 British documentaries.
- Editor Sloane Klevin won an Emmy for her work on the feature documentary Taxi to the Dark Side. Her latest project is Freakonomics, for which she edited segments for Alex Gibney, Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady.
WORLD DOCUMENTARY JURY
- José Padilha, is a Brazilian producer, writer and director. He directed and produced the documentaries BUS 174, Garapa and Secrets of the Tribe, as well as the feature film Elite Squad.
- Mette Hoffmann Meyer is head of documentaries and co-productions for Danish DR TV.
- Lucy Walker has directed four award-winning feature documentaries: Devil's Playground, Blindsight, Countdown to Zero, and Wasteland.
So what do you think of the Jury line up? Personally, I'm a fan of most of the choices, though I'm curious to see how Groening fits in with the rest of the members. What are your thoughts?
From Sundance:
U.S. DOCUMENTARY JURY
- Jeffrey Blitz directed the documentary Spellbound, Lucky and multiple episodes of NBC's "The Office."
- Matt Groening created the longest-running comedy in television history…The Simpsons.
- Laura Poitras is working on a trilogy of films about America post 9/11. The first two films, My Country, My Country and The Oath, have already received numerous awards.
- Jess Search is the Chief Executive of the Channel 4 BRITDOC Foundation which has given funding and support to over 60 British documentaries.
- Editor Sloane Klevin won an Emmy for her work on the feature documentary Taxi to the Dark Side. Her latest project is Freakonomics, for which she edited segments for Alex Gibney, Heidi Ewing and Rachel Grady.
WORLD DOCUMENTARY JURY
- José Padilha, is a Brazilian producer, writer and director. He directed and produced the documentaries BUS 174, Garapa and Secrets of the Tribe, as well as the feature film Elite Squad.
- Mette Hoffmann Meyer is head of documentaries and co-productions for Danish DR TV.
- Lucy Walker has directed four award-winning feature documentaries: Devil's Playground, Blindsight, Countdown to Zero, and Wasteland.
So what do you think of the Jury line up? Personally, I'm a fan of most of the choices, though I'm curious to see how Groening fits in with the rest of the members. What are your thoughts?
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Big Winners at Cinema Eye Honors Awards
Not exactly as high profile as some other award shows, the Cinema Eye Honors is one award show our website can truly support. In it's fourth year, this award show is all about nonfiction cinema. To quote their mission statement, "Cinema Eye’s mission is to advocate for, recognize and promote the highest commitment to rigor and artistry in the nonfiction field."
Their awards show was hosted last night, but will air on the Documentary Channel on January 30, 2011 (so get your TiVo ready!). But really, let's be honest, all you care about is who won:
Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction Feature Filmmaking: "Exit Through the Gift Shop"
Outstanding Achievement in Direction: Laura Poitras, "The Oath"
Outstanding Achievement in Production: Mila Aung-Thwin and Daniel Cross, "Last Train Home"
Outstanding Achievement in Editing: Chris King and Tom Fulford, "Exit Through the Gift Shop"
Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography: Lixin Fan, "Last Train Home"
Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Score: Norbert Möslang, "The Sound of Insects: Record of a Mummy"
Outstanding Achievement in Graphic Design and Animation: Juan Cardarelli and Alex Tyson, "Gasland"
Outstanding Achievement in an International Feature: "Last Train Home"
Outstanding Achievement in a Debut Feature Film: "Marwencol"
Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction Short Filmmaking: "The Poodle Trainer"
Audience Choice Prize: "Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work"
Legacy Award: "Grey Gardens"
Spotlight Award: "The Autobiography of Nicolae Ceaucascu"Heterodox Award: "Putty Hill"
So what do you think? Is Exit Through the Gift Shop the best documentary of the year? Is Last Train Home worthy of three awards? I tend to agree with the previous years' winners, but this year, I see some debate.
Their awards show was hosted last night, but will air on the Documentary Channel on January 30, 2011 (so get your TiVo ready!). But really, let's be honest, all you care about is who won:
Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction Feature Filmmaking: "Exit Through the Gift Shop"
Outstanding Achievement in Direction: Laura Poitras, "The Oath"
Outstanding Achievement in Production: Mila Aung-Thwin and Daniel Cross, "Last Train Home"
Outstanding Achievement in Editing: Chris King and Tom Fulford, "Exit Through the Gift Shop"
Outstanding Achievement in Cinematography: Lixin Fan, "Last Train Home"
Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Score: Norbert Möslang, "The Sound of Insects: Record of a Mummy"
Outstanding Achievement in Graphic Design and Animation: Juan Cardarelli and Alex Tyson, "Gasland"
Outstanding Achievement in an International Feature: "Last Train Home"
Outstanding Achievement in a Debut Feature Film: "Marwencol"
Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction Short Filmmaking: "The Poodle Trainer"
Audience Choice Prize: "Joan Rivers: A Piece of Work"
Legacy Award: "Grey Gardens"
Spotlight Award: "The Autobiography of Nicolae Ceaucascu"Heterodox Award: "Putty Hill"
So what do you think? Is Exit Through the Gift Shop the best documentary of the year? Is Last Train Home worthy of three awards? I tend to agree with the previous years' winners, but this year, I see some debate.
Monday, January 17, 2011
'Crude' Filmmaker loses Court Appeal
Joe Berlinger is not a journalist. At least that's what a Federal Appeals court says.
The filmmaker for 2009's Crude is unable to invoke journalistic privilege and is no longer legally able to refuse to turn over more than 500 hours of raw footage from his documentary.
According to the judges, “Given all the circumstances of the making of the film... as reasonably found by the district court, particularly the fact that Berlinger’s making of the film was solicited by the plaintiffs in the Lago Agrio litigation for the purpose of telling their story, and that changes to the film were made at their instance, Berlinger failed to carry his burden of showing that he collected information for the purpose of independent reporting and commentary.”
Lawyers for Chevron have sought Berlinger's footage for months because they believe it demonstrates collusion between the plaintiffs in the Lago Agrio lawsuit and a court appointed independent expert.
For those who don't know, Crude chronicles the lawsuit brought by a group of Ecuadoreans who say Texaco's (now owned by Chevron) Lago Agrio oil field polluted their water supply. It remains locked in legal battle.
Berlinger (and most other documentary filmmakers) are understandably upset by the ruling which continues to wedge a distinction between documentaries and journalism.
What do you think? Should Berlinger be considered a journalist? Or do filmmakers operate in an unprotected gray area?
The filmmaker for 2009's Crude is unable to invoke journalistic privilege and is no longer legally able to refuse to turn over more than 500 hours of raw footage from his documentary.
According to the judges, “Given all the circumstances of the making of the film... as reasonably found by the district court, particularly the fact that Berlinger’s making of the film was solicited by the plaintiffs in the Lago Agrio litigation for the purpose of telling their story, and that changes to the film were made at their instance, Berlinger failed to carry his burden of showing that he collected information for the purpose of independent reporting and commentary.”
Lawyers for Chevron have sought Berlinger's footage for months because they believe it demonstrates collusion between the plaintiffs in the Lago Agrio lawsuit and a court appointed independent expert.
For those who don't know, Crude chronicles the lawsuit brought by a group of Ecuadoreans who say Texaco's (now owned by Chevron) Lago Agrio oil field polluted their water supply. It remains locked in legal battle.
Berlinger (and most other documentary filmmakers) are understandably upset by the ruling which continues to wedge a distinction between documentaries and journalism.
What do you think? Should Berlinger be considered a journalist? Or do filmmakers operate in an unprotected gray area?
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Theatrical Releases
Every Friday we update you all with the week's theatrical documentary releases. Now, this is not a perfect process as our beloved genre prefers the rolling/limited release schedule instead of a big nationwide or international-wide release. So apologies if a film isn't out in your area or if you are a filmmaker and we missed the boat on announcing your documentary's big day (if that is the case, please let us know and we'll correct the mistake).
Now, with that introduction out of the way, here's this weekend's releases with their current rating on the amazing website Rottentomatoes.com:
Now, with that introduction out of the way, here's this weekend's releases with their current rating on the amazing website Rottentomatoes.com:
Plastic Planet - (rating - 43%) - We live in the age of plastic. It's cheap and practical, and it's everywhere - even in our blood. But is it a danger to us? The amount of plastic we have produced since it was invented would be enough to cover the entire globe six times over. But this inexpensive and convenient substance comes with a hefty price. Plastic stays in the ground and water system for up to 500 years. Numerous studies have proven that the chemicals it releases migrate into the human body and may contribute to or cause grave health problems. For Austrian German director Werner Boote, plastic is personal. His grandfather was one of the early manufacturers of plastic and he introduced Boote at a young age to the magic substance that would change the world. Many years later, after reading about the global threat posed by plastic, he decides to embark on a quest to discover the truth about this pervasive substance.(Rottentomatoes)
Petition - (rating - 100%) - Since 1996, Zhao has documented the 'petitioners' who come from all over China to make complaints in Beijing about abuses committed by their local authorities. Gathered near the complaint offices, living in most cases in makeshift shelters, the complainants wait for months or years to obtain justice. Peasants thrown off their land, workers from factories which have gone into liquidation, small homeowners who have seen their houses demolished but received no compensation, they pursue justice with unceasing stubbornness, facing the most brutal intimidation and most often finding that their hopes are in vain. Unfolding like a novel by Zola or Dickens, but with the existential absurdity of Beckett, “Petition” reveals the persistent contradictions of China in the midst of powerful economic expansion. (Rottentomatoes)
I'm Dangerous with Love - (rating - 40%) African shamans have used Ibogaine in their rituals for centuries, but in the US it is classified as a Schedule 1 controlled substance and illegal, so Dimitri must work in underground networks to guide addicts through the same detox that he says saved his life. “I'm Dangerous with Love” traces Dimitri's risky journey as he treats desperate drug users. It follows this man of edgy energy as he goes from one addict to the next without stopping to catch his breath. It also follows him on his own search for recovery when one session goes bad in a remote snowed-in Canadian home, and a quiet young man almost dies. Dimitri must decide whether or not to continue his mission. Is he serving the addicts or simply releasing his own demons? To find answers, Dimitri travels to Gabon, West Africa, to consult with Bwiti shamans, and puts himself through a punishing Iboga initiation. (Rottentomatoes)
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Autism film gets all-star soundtrack
Going from (in my mind) obscurity to limelight, Gerardine Wurzburg's latest documentary has become a pleasant surprise. Titled, Wretches and Jabbers, the film follows two autistic men travelling the world to change our perceptions of disabilities and intelligence.
Providing a direct outlet for those with autism, the film is certainly worth consideration, especially considering Wurzburg's Oscar winning pedigree and extensive work covering the disability. However, if you needed further reason to support Wretches and Jabbers, perhaps it's impressive collection of musical talent will sway you.
The soundtrack (released yesterday) features 20 original songs written and produced by (Grammy award winner) J. Ralph and features artists like Antony, Vincent Gallo, Ben Harper, Norah Jones, Scarlett Johannson, Carly Simon, Steven Stills, Bob Weir and more.
Already playing in a limited screening capacity, Wretches and Jabbers will only get a boost from the media attention on this soundtrack, so I expect a limited theatrical run or DVD release in the near future. In the meantime, head on over to the film's website to learn more about the documentary and its soundtrack, watch a trailer, or just learn about the two main characters.
Providing a direct outlet for those with autism, the film is certainly worth consideration, especially considering Wurzburg's Oscar winning pedigree and extensive work covering the disability. However, if you needed further reason to support Wretches and Jabbers, perhaps it's impressive collection of musical talent will sway you.
The soundtrack (released yesterday) features 20 original songs written and produced by (Grammy award winner) J. Ralph and features artists like Antony, Vincent Gallo, Ben Harper, Norah Jones, Scarlett Johannson, Carly Simon, Steven Stills, Bob Weir and more.
Already playing in a limited screening capacity, Wretches and Jabbers will only get a boost from the media attention on this soundtrack, so I expect a limited theatrical run or DVD release in the near future. In the meantime, head on over to the film's website to learn more about the documentary and its soundtrack, watch a trailer, or just learn about the two main characters.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
12th Annual Golden Tomato Awards Announced
For all of you not familiar with the great website Rottentomatoes.com, you're missing out on a film site that compiles numerous reviews to create a love/hate percentage for released movies. The site's success allows it to compile the best and worst of the year and announce those to the world.
This year's top documentaries (according to their system):
1) Marwencol
2) Waste Land
3) Restrepo
4) Exit through the Gift Shop
5) Inside Job
Not a bad list and it's probably a strong indication of who the front runners are for the Academy Awards. But, it is important (and odd) to note that Rottentomatoes listed 'Last Train Home' ahead of the aforementioned documentaries in it's list of top 'limited release' films. So there could be a battle brewing with the award season getting into full swing.
Head on over to Rottentomatoes.com for the full details then tell us your thoughts. Do you think Marwencol was the best documentary of 2010?
This year's top documentaries (according to their system):
1) Marwencol
2) Waste Land
3) Restrepo
4) Exit through the Gift Shop
5) Inside Job
Not a bad list and it's probably a strong indication of who the front runners are for the Academy Awards. But, it is important (and odd) to note that Rottentomatoes listed 'Last Train Home' ahead of the aforementioned documentaries in it's list of top 'limited release' films. So there could be a battle brewing with the award season getting into full swing.
Head on over to Rottentomatoes.com for the full details then tell us your thoughts. Do you think Marwencol was the best documentary of 2010?
Saturday, January 8, 2011
Theatrical Releases
Every Friday we update you all with the week's theatrical documentary releases. Now, this is not a perfect process as our beloved genre prefers the rolling/limited release schedule instead of a big nationwide or international-wide release. So apologies if a film isn't out in your area or if you are a filmmaker and we missed the boat on announcing your documentary's big day (if that is the case, please let us know and we'll correct the mistake).
Now, with that introduction out of the way, here's this weekend's releases with their current rating on the amazing website Rottentomatoes.com:
Phil Ochs: There But For Fortune - (Rottentomatoes rating - 100%) Fiercely devoted to championing peace and social justice, folk singer Phil Ochs rose to fame at the height of the 1960s protest movements, yet his incisive lyrics and resonant melodies remain relevant for audiences today. This film tells his story. Through performance footage and interviews with Ochs's contemporaries and admirers -- including Joan Baez, Pete Seeger and Sean Penn -- the documentary paints a portrait of a uniquely American artist. (NetFlix)
Now, with that introduction out of the way, here's this weekend's releases with their current rating on the amazing website Rottentomatoes.com:
Phil Ochs: There But For Fortune - (Rottentomatoes rating - 100%) Fiercely devoted to championing peace and social justice, folk singer Phil Ochs rose to fame at the height of the 1960s protest movements, yet his incisive lyrics and resonant melodies remain relevant for audiences today. This film tells his story. Through performance footage and interviews with Ochs's contemporaries and admirers -- including Joan Baez, Pete Seeger and Sean Penn -- the documentary paints a portrait of a uniquely American artist. (NetFlix)
Thursday, January 6, 2011
CNBC's “THE FACEBOOK OBSESSION”
You love Facebook. We love Facebook. Heck, millions of people love, nay obsess over, Facebook. The question is 'why'? With the hit fictional film 'The Social Network' and numerous public lawsuits against its founder, its no surprise a few documentary filmmakers want to explore every detail surrounding the massive Mark Zuckerberg creation.
CNBC's The Facebook Obsession may be the most broad reaching of documentaries on the subject to date. Correspondent Lester Holt anchors the film as it covers both the history of the website and its impact (good and bad) on individuals.
The documentary premiers tonight, so stop 'poking' your friends and head on over to CNBC's website to get more info, watch a trailer and see other Facebook related clips.
CNBC's The Facebook Obsession may be the most broad reaching of documentaries on the subject to date. Correspondent Lester Holt anchors the film as it covers both the history of the website and its impact (good and bad) on individuals.
The documentary premiers tonight, so stop 'poking' your friends and head on over to CNBC's website to get more info, watch a trailer and see other Facebook related clips.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
WGA Nominees for Best Documentary Screenplay
A new year, a new award season and to start things off, the Writers Guild of America announced their nominees for 2010 film season. Surprisingly, the WGA has a category titled "Documentary Screen Play" so naturally we jumped at the chance to cover the announcement.
Now, because it is the Writers Guild, there are certain regulations that prevent non-union documentaries from being considered, so don't fret if your favorite documentary didn't get the nod. Alright, enough babbling here are the nominees:
So there's the list? What are your thoughts? Are you as surprised as we are about Enemies of the People receiving such praise (check are review out to understand our thoughts).
Now, because it is the Writers Guild, there are certain regulations that prevent non-union documentaries from being considered, so don't fret if your favorite documentary didn't get the nod. Alright, enough babbling here are the nominees:
1) Enemies of the People, Written, Directed, Filmed and Produced by Rob Lemkin and Thet Sambath; International Film Circuit
2) Freedom Riders, Written, Produced and Directed by Stanley Nelson; International Film Circuit
3) Gasland, Written and Directed by Josh Fox; HBO Documentary Films and International WOW Company
4) Inside Job, Produced, Written and Directed by Charles Ferguson; Co-written by Chad Beck, Adam Bolt; Sony Pictures Classics
5) The Two Escobars, Written by Michael Zimbalist, Jeff Zimbalist; ESPN Films
6) Who Is Harry Nilsson (And Why Is Everybody Talkin’ About Him)?, Written and Directed by John Scheinfeld; Lorber Films
So there's the list? What are your thoughts? Are you as surprised as we are about Enemies of the People receiving such praise (check are review out to understand our thoughts).
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