As a film enthusiast with a keen interest in the intersection of cinema and personal experiences, I find the lineup for this festival incredibly captivating. Each director brings their unique perspective to the table, showcasing diverse stories that are undoubtedly rich and thought-provoking.
AGBO, the film production company supported by Joe and Anthony Russo, has declared that the “No Sleep ‘Till Film Fest” will be making a comeback for its fourth consecutive event.
The two-day event invites contestants to create short films, no longer than three minutes, for a shot at awards and continuous guidance from an independent film studio.
The first three winners will be awarded a filmmaking prize bundle, containing vital tools and state-of-the-art equipment for future cinematic projects. Additionally, they will become members of the AGBO Storytellers Collective, an elite group consisting of past festival winners from various AGBO-supported events like the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum and the Slamdance Film Festival Fellowship. This collective includes the Russo Brothers themselves, who kickstarted their careers at the Slamdance Film Festival in 1997 as aspiring filmmakers.
For the last three years, “No Sleep ’til Film Fest” has seen more than 2000 film submissions from approximately 60 different countries. The winners for 2023 were “Time of Your Life”, a Canadian production directed by Darren Hinchy, as well as “Just a Sec!” directed by Tanya Lialina and Teodor Klimov from Georgia, and “02:00 Minutes” directed by Grace McLeod in the United States.
The Russo brothers, along with the company’s executive team, will participate as speakers in the upcoming virtual festival. From September 27th to 29th, submissions will be accepted and must be received by 5 p.m. Pacific Time. The winners of this event will be announced on November 6th.
Student Academy Awards Ceremony Moves to London With Support of Rolex as Partner
The Student Academy Awards ceremony, organized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, will be held in London this year instead of Beverly Hills. The event, which has historically taken place at the Samuel Goldwyn Theater, is scheduled for October 14th at 7:00 p.m. BST at ODEON Luxe Leicester Square.
The fundraising effort for the campaign has surpassed $160 million, with Rolex – a longtime collaborator of the Academy – among its contributors.
The winners of the 51st Student Academy Awards will be revealed in September. These winners will also gain access to workshops, networking events, and connections with Academy members, all aimed at assisting them in furthering their careers as part of a partnership with the BFI London Film Festival.
In the role as a frontrunner in the global movie community, and with our organization expanding its horizons, the Academy is excited to host the Student Academy Awards in London this year, stated Bill Kramer, CEO of the Academy. We are incredibly appreciative of Rolex, our collaborators, for their backing of this essential initiative and for aligning with our passion for nurturing new filmmakers. Furthermore, we are extremely grateful to the BFI London Film Festival for joining forces with us in this endeavor.
Tickets for the ceremony will be available in September.
Texas Representative Joaquin Castro Announces 2024 Latin Film Nominations for Potential Inclusion and Archival at the Library of Congress
As a devoted cinephile, I’m thrilled to share that Representative Joaquin Castro, who represents the 20th district of Texas in Congress, has unveiled his third annual list of Latino film nominations. These exceptional films are being considered for inclusion in the esteemed National Film Registry housed at the Library of Congress.
“Since the film industry has not adequately represented Latinos, it’s essential that we persistently strive to recognize and incorporate their significant contributions within our country’s cinema. Movies serve as a vital means of storytelling for many people, and the media and entertainment sector shapes America’s narratives and images. We eagerly anticipate collaborating further to broaden diversity and increase Latino representation in the National Film Preservation Board and throughout the Library of Congress,” Castro wrote in his nomination letter.
Congressman Castro compiled a list of movie recommendations based on hundreds of suggestions he received via social media and his personal website. Here are some of the nominees for your consideration:
- “Blood in Blood Out” (1993)
- “Frida” (2002)
- “Like Water for Chocolate” (1992)
- “Mi Familia” (1995)
- “Y Tu Mamá Tambiên” (2001)
- “Under the Same Moon” (2007)
- “American Me” (1992)
- “Tortilla Soup” (2001)
- “The Milagro Beanfield War” (1988)
- “Cesar Chavez” (2014)
- “Pan’s Labyrinth” (2006)
- “Motorcycle Diaries” (2004)
- “Mi Vida Loca” (1994)
- “Instructions Not Included” (2013)
- “Chicano I & II: The Mexican American Heritage Series” (1971)
- “La Mission” (2010)
- “Babel” (2006)
- “125 Franco’s Blvd” (2010)
- “Don’t Let Me Drown” (2009)
- “Bless Me, Ultima “(2012)
- “Walkout” (2006)
- “Gotta Kick It Up!” (2002)
- “Mosquita y Mari” (2012)
- “Gun Hill Road” (2011)
- “American Experience: Roberto Clemente” (2008)
Wednesday, Aug. 28
Angelina Jolie to be Honored with Toronto International Film Festival Tribute Award
Angelina Jolie received the Tribute Award from the Toronto International Film Festival for her significant contributions in media.
The accolade bestowed upon us by Anne-Marie Canning recognizes exceptional leadership in merging social influence with cinematic artistry. Notable past recipients of this award include Pedro Almodóvar, Mira Nair, and Alanis Obomsawin.
2024 TIFF Tribute Awards will present Jolie with an award on Sunday, September 8th. The actress will share this honor with Amy Adams, Cate Blanchett, Durga Chew-Bose, David Cronenberg, Clément Ducol and Camille, Jharrel Jerome, Mike Leigh, and Zhao Tao. Sandra Oh is set to be the first Honorary Chair for the fundraising gala event.
Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, stated that Angelina Jolie is a versatile artist who has captivated audiences for many years while tirelessly advocating for significant issues. We are proud to bestow upon her the 2024 TIFF Tribute Award in Impact Media, an honor that acknowledges her remarkable filmmaking accomplishments and steadfast dedication to making a difference. This award cements her reputation as a true humanitarian and influential figure on the global stage.
Angelina Jolie makes a comeback to the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) after the acclaim of her productions, “First They Killed My Father,” which she penned and helmed, and “The Breadwinner,” where she served as executive producer. Both movies were screened at TIFF in 2017.
Beyond her two decades of dedicated humanitarian efforts, particularly in the areas of refugee support and human rights, Jolie has also advocated for grassroots leadership in environmental preservation and financed educational, healthcare, and educational projects worldwide.
Collaborating with the Napa Valley Film Festival, the Culinary Institute of America at Copia introduces a fresh “Flavors of Film” series.
The Culinary Institute of America (CIA), located at Copia, has unveiled plans for their upcoming event titled “Flavors of Film: A Tribute to Culinary Movies,” set to occur in the Bay Area region.
The series kicks off on October 12 with a 20th anniversary showing of the Oscar-winning movie “Sideways,” accompanied by a unique Q&A session involving director Alexander Payne and actress Virginia Madsen.
Here is “The Flavors of Film” Series lineup for 2024/25:
Saturday, October 12, 2024
- Film Title: “Sideways” (2004), Directed and written by Alexander Payne
- Synopsis: Struggling writer and wine enthusiast Miles (Paul Giamatti) takes his engaged friend, Jack (Thomas Haden Church), on a trip to wine country for a last single-guy bonding experience. While Miles wants to relax and enjoy the wine, Jack is in search of a fling before his wedding. Soon Jack is sleeping with Stephanie (Sandra Oh), while her friend Maya (Virginia Madsen) connects with Miles. When Miles lets slip that Jack is getting married, both women are furious, sending the trip into disarray.
- Special Guests: The film’s director and writer, Alexander Payne, actress Virginia Madsen and Frank Ostini, owner, chef and winemaker of Hitching Post 2 and Hitching Post Winery, whose Pinot Noir gained international acclaim after being highlighted in the film, will be in attendance for a Q&A session. After the event, guests will enjoy a dinner with none other than Frank Ostini as the Guest Chef.
- Trailer: HERE
Saturday, November 9, 2024
- Film Title: “Common Ground” (2023), Directed by Josh Tickel and Rebecca Harrell Tickell
- Synopsis: This documentary explores how many of the problems that ail humans connect to the state of the world’s soil. Independent farmers implementing historic indigenous techniques demonstrate how changing agricultural practices could potentially save the world.
- Trailer: HERE
Saturday, December 7, 2024
- Film Title: “The Truffle Hunters” (2020), Directed by Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw
- Synopsis: Deep in the forests of Piedmont, Italy, a handful of men, seventy or eighty years old, hunt for the rare and expensive white Alba truffle-which to date has resisted all of modern science’s efforts at cultivation.
- Partners: Italian Cultural Institute SF and Sabatino Truffles
- Trailer: HERE
Saturday, December 21, 2024
- Film Title: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009), Directed by Wes Anderson
- Synopsis: After 12 years of bucolic bliss, Mr. Fox (George Clooney) breaks a promise to his wife (Meryl Streep) and raids the farms of their human neighbors, Boggis, Bunce and Bean. Giving in to his animal instincts endangers not only his marriage but also the lives of his family and their animal friends. When the farmers force Mr. Fox and company deep underground, he has to resort to his natural craftiness to rise above the opposition.
- Partners: Visit Napa Valley
- Trailer: HERE
The showing of “Fantastic Mr. Fox” is going to be a joyful, complimentary holiday celebration open to everyone in the community, where they can watch it with their loved ones.
January 2025
- Film Title: “Always Be My Maybe” (2019), Directed by Nahnatchka Khan, starring Ali Wong and Randall Park
- Synopsis: Childhood sweethearts have a falling out and don’t speak for 15 years, only reconnecting as adults when Sasha runs into Marcus in San Francisco. Although the old sparks are still there, the couple live in different worlds.
- Trailer: HERE
Saturday, February 22, 2025
- Film Title: “Uncorked” (2020), Directed by Prentice Penny, starring Mamoudou Athie, Courtney B. Vance, Niecy Nash
- Synopsis: Elijah must balance his dream of becoming a master sommelier with his father’s expectations that he carry on the family’s Memphis BBQ joint.
- Partners: Association of African American Vintners (AAAV)
- Trailer: HERE
Saturday, March 15, 2025
- Film Title: “The Goddesses of Food” Directed by Vérane Frédiani
- Synopsis: In the male dominated food universe, discover the women changing the game on all levels. Presenting the best female chefs, including multi-Michelin star chefs Dominique Crenn and Barbara Lync, and introducing rising new stars and those making incredible food in all corners of the world. It is a global journey exploring female strength in gastronomy.
- Partners: Villa Albertine, Consulate General of France in San Francisco
- Trailer: HERE
Friday, April 11, 2025
- Film Title: “The Game Changers”
- Synopsis: James Wilks travels the world on a quest for the truth about meat, protein, and strength. Showcasing elite athletes, special ops soldiers, and visionary scientists to change the way people eat and live.
- Trailer: HERE
The screening is scheduled for after the end of the CIA’s Global Plant-Forward Culinary Conference.
May 15-18 2025
- Event: “Reel Taste Awards”
- Synopsis: A four-day program honoring beloved food films and streaming series, featuring exciting partnerships, celebrity guests, and additional programming details.
Please note that all film screening dates are subject to change.
Tickets are available here.
Monday, Aug. 26
Filmmakers of the movie titled ‘City of Dreams’ distribute a million dollars worth of free tickets for previews to various organizations combating human trafficking, churches, and more.
The makers of “City of Dreams,” a movie about child trafficking, are providing free tickets valued at one million dollars for this film’s previews to groups supporting human trafficking victims, survivors, religious institutions like churches, educational institutions such as schools, and individuals who may not have the means to watch it otherwise.
I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been fortunate enough to be part of an exciting giveaway! This event, predicted to attract over 50,000 cinema enthusiasts like myself, is made possible by the generous donation of John Devaney, founder of United Capital and Manor House Films. As a lucky participant, I’ll get a sneak peek at the film as early as Wednesday, that’s two days before its grand premiere!
“Director Mohit Ramchandani has skillfully shone light on a significant and impactful issue through this film, making it unforgettable. Drawing inspiration from real-life events, he’s told an important story that deserves immediate attention. We feel honored to contribute to raising awareness about the protection and rescue of innocent children from slavery. America, like our growing number of ambassadors and influencers who have joined us in pledging their support for this film, is sure to be touched by it,” stated Devaney.
The 16th Annual Hola Mexico Film Festival Announces This Year’s Selections
Greetings to the Mexico Film Festival! This significant event, known as the biggest Mexican film festival held outside Mexico itself, is set to make a comeback for its 16th year. The celebration will take place from September 20th through the 27th, coinciding with Hispanic Heritage Month.
This year’s festival features a wide range of movies spanning various genres including comedy, horror, socio-political issues, LGBTQ topics, and others. The selected films for the festival are as follows:
MEXICO AHORA
*Casi El Paraiso / Almost Paradise Dir. Edgar San Juan
**Todas Menos Tú / Anyone But Her Dir. Luis Kuri
Dante y Soledad / Dante And Soledad Dir. Alexandra De La Mora
Arillo De Hombre Muerto Dir. Alejandro Gerber Bicecci
***Un Actor Malo / Bad Actor Dir. Jorge Cuchí
Todo el Silencio / All the Silence Dir. Diego del Rio
A Cielo Abierto / Upon Open Sky Dir. Mariana Arriaga y Santiago Arriaga
Firma Aquí / Sign Here Dir. Enrique Vázquez
Soy Lo Que Nunca Fui / Broken Borders Dir. Rodrigo Alvarez Flores
The Wingwalker Dir. Alonso Alvarez-Barreda
Buen Salvaje / Good Savage Dir. Santiago Mohar Volkow
Tótem / Totem Dir. Lila Avilés
El Eco / The Echo Dir. Tatiana Huezo
NOCTURNO
***Párvulos: Hijos Del Apocalipsis / Toddlers: Children of the ApocalypseDir. Isaac Ezban
Masacre en Teques / Massacre in Teques Dir. Rodrigo Hernández Cruz
DOCUMENTAL
Tratado de invisibilidad / Invisibility Treaty Dir. Luciana Kaplan
El Guardián de las Monarcas / The Guardian of the Monarchs Dir. Emiliano Ruprah de Fin
***TransMéxico Dir. Claudia Sanchez
EL OTRO MEXICO
Jíkuri. Journey to the Land of the Tarahumara Dir. Federico Cecchetti
M20 Matamoros Ejido 20 Dir. Leonor Maldonado
[*Opening Night Film / ** Closing Night Screening / *** Special Showcase]
Tickets and more info are available at the festival’s website here.
Tuesday, Aug. 27
IndieVISIBLE Entertainment Launches Production Accessibility Training Program
IndieVISIBLE Entertainment, both a production company and advocacy group for people with disabilities, has expanded its training programs by introducing the Access Instigators program. This initiative is spearheaded by filmmakers who are differently-abled, aiming to create opportunities in the realm of production accessibility – a sector within the film industry that promotes inclusive environments across movie and television productions for people with disabilities.
For the initial 8-month trial period, we’ll be welcoming a group of 10 trainees who identify as having disabilities and will guide them in mastering accessibility practices within professional media environments. The coursework encompasses practical on-set training, individual mentorship, and skill advancement through collaborative efforts.
‘Being Robin’ Documentary Lands Nov. 5 Release Date
The documentary titled “Being Robin,” which revolves around a man’s assertion that he was visited by the spirit of Robin Williams, will make its debut on significant streaming platforms and for a restricted theatrical release on November 5th.
The movie centers around Roger Kabler, a filmmaker who is also a comedian and actor, who found inspiration in Robin Williams throughout his career. After Robin’s death, Kabler – who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder – felt a strong connection to Williams’ spirit. This emotional experience inspired him to create a stage show in honor of the late comedian, which toured successfully across America for over two years.
“Kabler stated that this movie isn’t just an homage to Robin Williams; it also delves into mental health issues, showcasing the immense influence he had on those who adored him. His narrative is personal and heartfelt, expressing his profound affection for Robin. The film presents a distinctive viewpoint of how Robin might have performed again, if granted another opportunity. Essentially, it’s Kabler’s heartfelt tribute to Robin Williams.”
Here’s a first look:
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2024-08-30 00:20