Aretha Franklin documentary Amazing Grace, which tells the story of the singer’s 1972 gospel album, is subject of more legal issues.
The film, which was mired in limbo for 46 years as a result of various legal battles, is now the subject of a suit from producers including Alan Elliott, against distributor Neon and CEO Tom Quinn.
The crux of the issue also involves the Hollywood trade press, including Deadline, which covered the news that Neon had acquired the U.S rights to the film in December 2018. There was one small problem, the producers allege, it hadn’t signed a deal, and in fact, the producers were in talks with other buyers, including Apple, when Neon announced the deal.
The suit (read it here) alleges that Neon “fraudulently induced” the producers to accept a distribution deal by publicly announcing the pact.
“In a plan commandeered by Quinn, Neon acquired the coveted...
The film, which was mired in limbo for 46 years as a result of various legal battles, is now the subject of a suit from producers including Alan Elliott, against distributor Neon and CEO Tom Quinn.
The crux of the issue also involves the Hollywood trade press, including Deadline, which covered the news that Neon had acquired the U.S rights to the film in December 2018. There was one small problem, the producers allege, it hadn’t signed a deal, and in fact, the producers were in talks with other buyers, including Apple, when Neon announced the deal.
The suit (read it here) alleges that Neon “fraudulently induced” the producers to accept a distribution deal by publicly announcing the pact.
“In a plan commandeered by Quinn, Neon acquired the coveted...
- 8/11/2022
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Celebrating its 48th edition, the Telluride Film Festival announced its official programming selections, which include world premieres of Kenneth Branagh’s “Belfast,” Mike Mills’ “C’mon C’mon,” Joe Wright’s “Cyrano,” Reinaldo Marcus Green’s “King Richard” and Céline Sciamma’s “Petite Maman.”
Also on the docket are Jane Campion’s “The Power of the Dog,” Maggie Gyllenhaal’s “The Lost Daughter,” Paolo Sorrentino’s “The Hand of God” and Pablo Larraín’s “Spencer.” Larraín’s film is opening the Venice Film Festival, where several of the films are screening before debuting Stateside in Colorado.
From the documentary side, festivalgoers will get a smorgasbord of subjects from acclaimed filmmakers such Todd Haynes (“The Velvet Underground”), Lisa Hurwitz (“The Automat”), Liz Garbus (“Becoming Cousteau”) and Sam Pollard and Rex Miller (“Citizen Ashe”).
From the international circuit, selections include the Sundance hit “Flee” from Jonas Poher Rasmussen, an international animated documentary...
Also on the docket are Jane Campion’s “The Power of the Dog,” Maggie Gyllenhaal’s “The Lost Daughter,” Paolo Sorrentino’s “The Hand of God” and Pablo Larraín’s “Spencer.” Larraín’s film is opening the Venice Film Festival, where several of the films are screening before debuting Stateside in Colorado.
From the documentary side, festivalgoers will get a smorgasbord of subjects from acclaimed filmmakers such Todd Haynes (“The Velvet Underground”), Lisa Hurwitz (“The Automat”), Liz Garbus (“Becoming Cousteau”) and Sam Pollard and Rex Miller (“Citizen Ashe”).
From the international circuit, selections include the Sundance hit “Flee” from Jonas Poher Rasmussen, an international animated documentary...
- 9/1/2021
- by Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
To honor Aretha Franklin (Jennifer Hudson) in director Liesl Tommy’s musical biopic “Respect,” costume designer Clint Ramos took a deep dive into the Queen of Soul’s psychology. This enabled him to understand the complex emotional, spiritual, and political forces that drove her musical genius. As a result, Ramos created an aesthetic of heightened realism and glam naturalism with more than 80 costumes custom-made for Hudson.
“Aretha was not a slave to fashion, and she wasn’t also a mannequin,” said the Tony Award-winning Ramos. “The best way to describe her was that she was an independent dresser. For me, it really meant that she deployed fashion and clothing in a way to telegraph her emotional state, her spiritual state, and her political state. She was going through a lot of [trauma and abuse] and telegraphing that. She went after the fashion industry for not making clothes that were big enough. So, yes,...
“Aretha was not a slave to fashion, and she wasn’t also a mannequin,” said the Tony Award-winning Ramos. “The best way to describe her was that she was an independent dresser. For me, it really meant that she deployed fashion and clothing in a way to telegraph her emotional state, her spiritual state, and her political state. She was going through a lot of [trauma and abuse] and telegraphing that. She went after the fashion industry for not making clothes that were big enough. So, yes,...
- 8/20/2021
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Actors will love Liesl Tommy’s Aretha Franklin biopic “Respect.” Thirteen years after the Queen of Soul first approached Jennifer Hudson, who had just won her “Dreamgirls” Oscar, with the idea of playing her in a movie, “Respect” wrapped filming in February 2020, one month before lockdown. MGM decided to push back the movie from December 2020 to August 13, 2021, to give it a chance to play in theaters.
Judging from the way “Respect” played Saturday night at the Bruin Theatre in Westwood to (masked and vaccinated) members of the Screen Actors Guild nominating committee, the studio made the right choice to favor an exclusive theatrical release. Broadway director Tommy has mounted a solid crowdpleaser, written by Tracey Scott Wilson, that will satisfy generations of Franklin fans. And ageless 39-year-old singer-actress Hudson, who plays Franklin from her teens through her acclaimed 1972 gospel concert “Amazing Grace,” is on her way to a second Oscar nomination.
Judging from the way “Respect” played Saturday night at the Bruin Theatre in Westwood to (masked and vaccinated) members of the Screen Actors Guild nominating committee, the studio made the right choice to favor an exclusive theatrical release. Broadway director Tommy has mounted a solid crowdpleaser, written by Tracey Scott Wilson, that will satisfy generations of Franklin fans. And ageless 39-year-old singer-actress Hudson, who plays Franklin from her teens through her acclaimed 1972 gospel concert “Amazing Grace,” is on her way to a second Oscar nomination.
- 8/8/2021
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Timothy Greenfield-Sanders on Michael Apted: “I’ve shot my share of filmmakers, ranging from Orson Welles to Billy Wilder, François Truffaut, Jodie Foster, Ingmar Bergman, Amy Heckerling, Steven Spielberg and Darren Aronofsky, to name a random few. Apted fits into this list of names, with ease.” Photo: Anne-Katrin Titze
In 2019, Michael Apted and Martin Scorsese were honoured at the tenth edition of Doc NYC with Lifetime Achievement Visionary Tribute Awards. I first met Michael Apted when I was invited up to BritBox for a conversation on his latest film 63 Up.
After receiving the news of Michael Apted’s passing on Thursday, January 7, 2021, at the age of 79, I reached out to photographer/director Timothy Greenfield-Sanders (Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am and Lou Reed: Rock And Roll Heart) for a remembrance of the filmmaker. In November of 2019, Timothy wrote to me that he had recently photographed Michael after I...
In 2019, Michael Apted and Martin Scorsese were honoured at the tenth edition of Doc NYC with Lifetime Achievement Visionary Tribute Awards. I first met Michael Apted when I was invited up to BritBox for a conversation on his latest film 63 Up.
After receiving the news of Michael Apted’s passing on Thursday, January 7, 2021, at the age of 79, I reached out to photographer/director Timothy Greenfield-Sanders (Toni Morrison: The Pieces I Am and Lou Reed: Rock And Roll Heart) for a remembrance of the filmmaker. In November of 2019, Timothy wrote to me that he had recently photographed Michael after I...
- 1/12/2021
- by Anne-Katrin Titze, Timothy Greenfield-Sanders
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
Steven Soderbergh hails “remarkable body of work”.
Michael Apted, director of the "Up" documentary series and Bond thriller The World Is Not Enough, has died. He was 79.
Apted passed away on Thursday night (January 7). Sources at The Gersh Agency and Directors Guild of America (DGA) confirmed the news to Screendaily but did not provide further details.
The English film and TV writer and director was born in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, on February 10, 1941, and served three terms as president of the DGA spanning 2003-2009.
He was a mainstay on the ground-breaking Up TV documentary series that chronicled the lives of 14 British people from childhood,...
Michael Apted, director of the "Up" documentary series and Bond thriller The World Is Not Enough, has died. He was 79.
Apted passed away on Thursday night (January 7). Sources at The Gersh Agency and Directors Guild of America (DGA) confirmed the news to Screendaily but did not provide further details.
The English film and TV writer and director was born in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, on February 10, 1941, and served three terms as president of the DGA spanning 2003-2009.
He was a mainstay on the ground-breaking Up TV documentary series that chronicled the lives of 14 British people from childhood,...
- 1/8/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Michael Apted, the award-winning British filmmaker behind the groundbreaking 7 Up documentaries and such feature films as Coal Miner’s Daughter, The World Is Not Enough, Gorillas in the Mist and Gorky Park, has died. He was 79. The Gersh Agency confirmed the news but did not immediately provide details of Apted’s death.
Apted served as DGA president for three terms from 2003-09, the longest consecutive presidential service since the 1960s.
“Our hearts are heavy today as we mourn the passing of esteemed director, longtime DGA leader and my friend Michael Apted,” said DGA president Thomas Schlamme. “His legacy will be forever woven into the fabric of cinema and our Guild. A fearless visionary as a director and unparalleled Guild leader, Michael saw the trajectory of things when others didn’t, and we were all the beneficiaries of his wisdom and lifelong dedication.”
Apted had dozens of film and TV credits during...
Apted served as DGA president for three terms from 2003-09, the longest consecutive presidential service since the 1960s.
“Our hearts are heavy today as we mourn the passing of esteemed director, longtime DGA leader and my friend Michael Apted,” said DGA president Thomas Schlamme. “His legacy will be forever woven into the fabric of cinema and our Guild. A fearless visionary as a director and unparalleled Guild leader, Michael saw the trajectory of things when others didn’t, and we were all the beneficiaries of his wisdom and lifelong dedication.”
Apted had dozens of film and TV credits during...
- 1/8/2021
- by Erik Pedersen and David Robb
- Deadline Film + TV
Jennifer Hudson Says It Was An “Honor” After Wrapping Production On Aretha Franklin Biopic ‘Respect’
Saying she was “overwhelmed” with emotion from portraying the Queen of Soul, Jennifer Hudson announced Saturday that she just wrapped production on Aretha Franklin biopic Respect.
“It is officially a wrap on @respectmovie wrap it up, it’s done!” Hudson shared on Instagram. “Too overwhelmed to get into it right now but words can’t express how grateful I am to be chosen by the queen herself and to live out yet another dream! It was my honor, to honor the Queen’s request! The one and only Queen of Soul.”
View this post on Instagram
It is officially a wrap on @respectmovie wrap it up , it’s done ! To overwhelmed to get into it right now but words can’t express how grateful I am to be chosen by the queen herself and to live out yet another dream ! It was my honor , to honor the Queens request ! The...
“It is officially a wrap on @respectmovie wrap it up, it’s done!” Hudson shared on Instagram. “Too overwhelmed to get into it right now but words can’t express how grateful I am to be chosen by the queen herself and to live out yet another dream! It was my honor, to honor the Queen’s request! The one and only Queen of Soul.”
View this post on Instagram
It is officially a wrap on @respectmovie wrap it up , it’s done ! To overwhelmed to get into it right now but words can’t express how grateful I am to be chosen by the queen herself and to live out yet another dream ! It was my honor , to honor the Queens request ! The...
- 2/16/2020
- by Anita Bennett
- Deadline Film + TV
Aretha Franklin’s niece, Sabrina Owens, has resigned as executor of the late soul singer’s estate amid mounting family tensions, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Owens announced her decision in court filings last week, writing: “Given my aunt’s love of family and desire for privacy, this is not what she would have wanted for us, nor is it what I want… I hope that my departure will allow the business of the estate to continue, calm the rift in my family and allow me to return to my personal life.
Owens announced her decision in court filings last week, writing: “Given my aunt’s love of family and desire for privacy, this is not what she would have wanted for us, nor is it what I want… I hope that my departure will allow the business of the estate to continue, calm the rift in my family and allow me to return to my personal life.
- 2/3/2020
- by Jon Blistein
- Rollingstone.com
Usher performed an emotional rendition of “Amazing Grace” as the Los Angeles Lakers honored Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna and the victims of the tragic helicopter crash. Friday’s game at Los Angeles’ Staples Center marked the Lakers’ first since Bryant’s death on January 26th.
The singer’s performance was accompanied by a video showing how fans, fellow basketball players and athletes across sports and across the world mourned the Lakers legend, who was among nine killed in the crash outside Calabasas, California.
Following Usher’s performance, the Lakers...
The singer’s performance was accompanied by a video showing how fans, fellow basketball players and athletes across sports and across the world mourned the Lakers legend, who was among nine killed in the crash outside Calabasas, California.
Following Usher’s performance, the Lakers...
- 2/1/2020
- by Daniel Kreps
- Rollingstone.com
It was a surreal and heartbreaking night at Staples Center as the Lakers hosted their first NBA game following Kobe Bryant’s death.
During an emotional pre-game ceremony, which featured performances by Usher and Boyz II Men, and a rousing speech from star LeBron James, the organization saluted one of the league’s all-time greats in Bryant, who, along with his daughter, Gianna, and seven others, was tragically killed in a helicopter crash Sunday morning.
“We’re all hurt and heartbroken,” James said, fighting back tears.
Standing next to two lofty bouquets of purple and gold flowers, shaped in Kobe’s numbers, 8 and 24, James told the sold-out crowd that Friday night wasn’t Bryant’s actual memorial – that would happen soon – but a “celebration” of the basketball icon, otherwise known as “The Black Mamba.”
LeBron James delivers emotional pre-game speech in honor of Kobe Bryant pic.twitter.com/B11XyPkqE...
During an emotional pre-game ceremony, which featured performances by Usher and Boyz II Men, and a rousing speech from star LeBron James, the organization saluted one of the league’s all-time greats in Bryant, who, along with his daughter, Gianna, and seven others, was tragically killed in a helicopter crash Sunday morning.
“We’re all hurt and heartbroken,” James said, fighting back tears.
Standing next to two lofty bouquets of purple and gold flowers, shaped in Kobe’s numbers, 8 and 24, James told the sold-out crowd that Friday night wasn’t Bryant’s actual memorial – that would happen soon – but a “celebration” of the basketball icon, otherwise known as “The Black Mamba.”
LeBron James delivers emotional pre-game speech in honor of Kobe Bryant pic.twitter.com/B11XyPkqE...
- 2/1/2020
- by Stuart Oldham
- Variety Film + TV
In the team’s first game since the death of Kobe Bryant, the Los Angeles Lakers went all out paying tribute to the team legend, with a powerful speech from LeBron James, and musical performances by R&b legends Boyz II Men and Usher, all before the game started.
Things kicked off with Boyz II Men, who delivered an emotional rendition of the national anthem for fans, performed while wearing Kobe Bryant #8 shirts.
Watch it below, courtesy of ESPN.
Boyz II Men sings the national anthem during the Lakers’ pregame ceremony. pic.twitter.com/yvnwZhyd53
— ESPN (@espn) February 1, 2020
Meanwhile, before Usher’s pregame performance, the lights of Staples Center in Los Angeles (where the Lakers play their home games) remained dark as the audience shouted “Mvp.” And on the wall, the team prominently displayed two larger-than-life size jerseys repping #8 and #24, both of the numbers Bryant wore during his 20-year tenure with the team.
Things kicked off with Boyz II Men, who delivered an emotional rendition of the national anthem for fans, performed while wearing Kobe Bryant #8 shirts.
Watch it below, courtesy of ESPN.
Boyz II Men sings the national anthem during the Lakers’ pregame ceremony. pic.twitter.com/yvnwZhyd53
— ESPN (@espn) February 1, 2020
Meanwhile, before Usher’s pregame performance, the lights of Staples Center in Los Angeles (where the Lakers play their home games) remained dark as the audience shouted “Mvp.” And on the wall, the team prominently displayed two larger-than-life size jerseys repping #8 and #24, both of the numbers Bryant wore during his 20-year tenure with the team.
- 2/1/2020
- by Ross A. Lincoln
- The Wrap
Tonight is the night to celebrate the life of Kobe Bryant. On Friday evening, the Los Angeles Lakers returned to the Staples Center for their first basketball game since the death of Kobe. They will play against the Portland Trail Blazers. Before any ball was dribbled and shot was scored, the venue along with the NBA, teammates, coaches, fans and friends put together an inspiring tribute to celebrate the life of one legendary Lakers player. Usher started off the tribute by singing "Amazing Grace" for the audience. He was followed by artist Ben Hong, who played the cello during a tribute video. And before the game began, the Boyz II Men performed the "Star-Spangled...
- 2/1/2020
- E! Online
Coming to Film Forum in New York City is “Black Women,” a 70-film screening series that spotlights 81 years – 1920 to 2001 – of trailblazing African American actresses in American movies.
Scheduled to run from January 17 to February 13, the series is curated by film historian and professor Donald Bogle, author of six books concerning blacks in film and television, including the groundbreaking “Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies, and Bucks: An Interpretive History of Blacks in American Films” (1973).
“Last year, Bruce Goldstein, the repertory programmer at Film Forum, asked me if there was something I was interested in doing, and this was a topic that I had been thinking about, because I recently updated my book on the subject, ‘Brown Sugar,’ which dealt with African American women in entertainment from the early years of the late 19th century to the present,” said Bogle. “That’s really the way it came about, and it just developed from there.
Scheduled to run from January 17 to February 13, the series is curated by film historian and professor Donald Bogle, author of six books concerning blacks in film and television, including the groundbreaking “Toms, Coons, Mulattoes, Mammies, and Bucks: An Interpretive History of Blacks in American Films” (1973).
“Last year, Bruce Goldstein, the repertory programmer at Film Forum, asked me if there was something I was interested in doing, and this was a topic that I had been thinking about, because I recently updated my book on the subject, ‘Brown Sugar,’ which dealt with African American women in entertainment from the early years of the late 19th century to the present,” said Bogle. “That’s really the way it came about, and it just developed from there.
- 1/17/2020
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival has announced the lineup for its 35th edition, which will take place from January 15 to 25. There will be 47 world premieres and 71 U.S. premieres, with 50 countries represented overall, in addition to starry tributes that serve as an awards season stop for top Oscar contenders. Among those feted in their respective categories will be Renée Zellweger (American Riviera Award), Scarlett Johansson and Adam Driver (Outstanding Performers of the Year Award), Laura Dern (Cinema Vanguard Award), Brad Pitt (Maltin Modern Master Award), along with the winners of the Virtuosos Award: Awkwafina, Taron Egerton, Cynthia Erivo, Beanie Feldstein, Aldis Hodge, George MacKay, Florence Pugh, and Taylor Russell.
The Sbiff is also unique in its yearly celebration of below the line talent. The crafts artists who’ve won the Variety Artisans Award this year are Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez (“Frozen II”), Michael Giacchino (“Jojo Rabbit”), Kazu Hiro...
The Sbiff is also unique in its yearly celebration of below the line talent. The crafts artists who’ve won the Variety Artisans Award this year are Kristen Anderson-Lopez and Robert Lopez (“Frozen II”), Michael Giacchino (“Jojo Rabbit”), Kazu Hiro...
- 12/31/2019
- by Christian Blauvelt
- Indiewire
The year is wrapping up, which means Barack Obama is sharing his annual "Best of" lists. On Dec. 28, he kicked off the yearly tradition by posting his favorite books of 2019. He then followed up with a list of his best-loved films and TV shows, as well as favorite songs from the past 12 months.
"While each of us has plenty that keeps us busy - work and family life, social and volunteer commitments - outlets like literature and art can enhance our day-to-day experiences," he captioned the collection of novels. "Here are the books that made the last year a little brighter for me." Considering his impeccable taste in literature, it should come as no surprise that the former Us president included some real page-turners in his list. Between Sally Rooney's gripping new coming-of-age novel, Normal People, and NBA star Andre Iguodala's memoir, The Sixth Man, there's a recommendation for everyone.
"While each of us has plenty that keeps us busy - work and family life, social and volunteer commitments - outlets like literature and art can enhance our day-to-day experiences," he captioned the collection of novels. "Here are the books that made the last year a little brighter for me." Considering his impeccable taste in literature, it should come as no surprise that the former Us president included some real page-turners in his list. Between Sally Rooney's gripping new coming-of-age novel, Normal People, and NBA star Andre Iguodala's memoir, The Sixth Man, there's a recommendation for everyone.
- 12/30/2019
- by Brea Cubit
- Popsugar.com
The Santa Barbara International Film Festival (Sbiff) announced on Monday the lineup for the 35th edition, which will run January 15 to 25, 2020. The festival will feature 47 world premieres and 71 U.S. premieres from 50 countries, along with tributes with the year’s top talent, panel discussions and free community education and outreach programs.
Sbiff 2020 will start with the Opening Night Film on Wednesday, January 15, at the historic Arlington Theatre with the U.S. Premiere of “A Bump Along The Way” directed by Shelly Love and starring Bronagh Gallagher, Lola Petticrew, Mary Moulds, Dan Gordon and Brendan Farrell.
“A Bump Along The Way” is female-led, feel-good, comedy drama set in Derry, Northern Ireland, about a middle-aged woman whose unexpected pregnancy after a one-night stand acts as the catalyst for her to finally take control of her life and become the role model her teenage daughter needs and craves.
Also Read: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver...
Sbiff 2020 will start with the Opening Night Film on Wednesday, January 15, at the historic Arlington Theatre with the U.S. Premiere of “A Bump Along The Way” directed by Shelly Love and starring Bronagh Gallagher, Lola Petticrew, Mary Moulds, Dan Gordon and Brendan Farrell.
“A Bump Along The Way” is female-led, feel-good, comedy drama set in Derry, Northern Ireland, about a middle-aged woman whose unexpected pregnancy after a one-night stand acts as the catalyst for her to finally take control of her life and become the role model her teenage daughter needs and craves.
Also Read: Scarlett Johansson, Adam Driver...
- 12/30/2019
- by Umberto Gonzalez
- The Wrap
Adding to the growing chatter of end-of-the-year lists on Twitter among critics and moviegoers, Barack Obama has shared his picks for the best films and TV of 2019. His eclectic list features plenty of talked-about favorites, such as “Booksmart,” “The Irishman,” “Little Women,” and “Parasite.” He also names “Fleabag,” “Unbelievable,” and “Watchmen” as his favorite television series. See Obama’s full Twitter list of film and TV favorites below.
Obama clearly knows his movies. On the film side, he includes some lesser-known, perhaps more cinephile-inclined favorites, from Kent Jones’ somber drama “Diane,” starring Mary Kay Place, to Christian Petzold’s revisionist World War II film “Transit,” Jia Zhangke’s cosmic “Ash Is Purest White,” and Ciro Guerra and Cristina Gallego’s crime epic “Birds of Passage.” Obama also is a fan of “The Last Black Man in San Francisco,” a mid-year release from A24 that has quietly appeared on critics’ 10 best lists as well.
Obama clearly knows his movies. On the film side, he includes some lesser-known, perhaps more cinephile-inclined favorites, from Kent Jones’ somber drama “Diane,” starring Mary Kay Place, to Christian Petzold’s revisionist World War II film “Transit,” Jia Zhangke’s cosmic “Ash Is Purest White,” and Ciro Guerra and Cristina Gallego’s crime epic “Birds of Passage.” Obama also is a fan of “The Last Black Man in San Francisco,” a mid-year release from A24 that has quietly appeared on critics’ 10 best lists as well.
- 12/29/2019
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
Barack Obama has released his favorite movies and TV shows of 2019, which includes some top awards contenders as well as his own production company’s “American Factory.”
While mostly dominated by dramas, the list also includes a few documentaries besides “American Factory,” like “Apollo 11” and “Amazing Grace,” the concert film of Aretha Franklin’s 1972 performance at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles.
Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” also made the cut, along with Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women” and Bong Joon Ho’s “Parasite.” A few more festival favorites like Mati Diop’s “Atlantics,” Jia Zhangke’s Palme d’Or nominee “Ash Is Purest White,” Colombian drug trade epic “Birds of Passage,” and German historical drama “Transit” also appear on the list. It seems Obama didn’t feel many notable comedies came out this year — or maybe it’s just a preference — as only Olivia Wilde...
While mostly dominated by dramas, the list also includes a few documentaries besides “American Factory,” like “Apollo 11” and “Amazing Grace,” the concert film of Aretha Franklin’s 1972 performance at the New Temple Missionary Baptist Church in Los Angeles.
Martin Scorsese’s “The Irishman” also made the cut, along with Greta Gerwig’s “Little Women” and Bong Joon Ho’s “Parasite.” A few more festival favorites like Mati Diop’s “Atlantics,” Jia Zhangke’s Palme d’Or nominee “Ash Is Purest White,” Colombian drug trade epic “Birds of Passage,” and German historical drama “Transit” also appear on the list. It seems Obama didn’t feel many notable comedies came out this year — or maybe it’s just a preference — as only Olivia Wilde...
- 12/29/2019
- by Erin Nyren
- Variety Film + TV
Every year people complain to me about the quality of movies hitting theaters, and every year I tell them they’re watching the wrong stuff. Sure, there’ve been some fun blockbusters this year, as Us, Joker and Avengers: Endgame were all a blast, and all made enough money to turn a third world country into a first world country. But they weren’t what I would consider the “best” films of the year.
Out of the 175 titles to choose from, picking 15 wasn’t easy. There were so many options: marvelous epics, classic comedies, teen comedies, documentaries, space odysseys, Disney remakes, art house classics, more remakes, romances, even more remakes and whatever the hell Midsommar was. All of these varying entities came together to make for a varying year. But the best of the best made it all worth it.
The following list, along with some truly honorable mentions, are...
Out of the 175 titles to choose from, picking 15 wasn’t easy. There were so many options: marvelous epics, classic comedies, teen comedies, documentaries, space odysseys, Disney remakes, art house classics, more remakes, romances, even more remakes and whatever the hell Midsommar was. All of these varying entities came together to make for a varying year. But the best of the best made it all worth it.
The following list, along with some truly honorable mentions, are...
- 12/25/2019
- by Asher Luberto
- We Got This Covered
The Irishman, 1917, Marriage Story also in contention.
Joanna Hogg’s The Souvenir leads the way with seven nominations for the 40th London Critics’ Circle Film Awards, including best film, actor (Tom Burke), supporting actress (Tilda Swinton) and young performer (Honor Swinton Byrne).
Close behind are Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 with six nods, while Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain & Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite have five.
The winners will be announced on Sunday, 30 January at The May Fair Hotel. Sally Potter and Sandy Powell will both receive the Dilys Powell Award for Excellence in Film,...
Joanna Hogg’s The Souvenir leads the way with seven nominations for the 40th London Critics’ Circle Film Awards, including best film, actor (Tom Burke), supporting actress (Tilda Swinton) and young performer (Honor Swinton Byrne).
Close behind are Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 with six nods, while Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain & Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite have five.
The winners will be announced on Sunday, 30 January at The May Fair Hotel. Sally Potter and Sandy Powell will both receive the Dilys Powell Award for Excellence in Film,...
- 12/17/2019
- by 1101184¦Orlando Parfitt¦38¦
- ScreenDaily
Nominations for the 40th edition of the London Critics’ Circle Film Awards were announced today, with Joanna Hogg’s The Souvenir out in front on seven nominations including Film, Screenwriter, Actor (Tom Burke), Supporting Actress (Tilda Swinton) and Young Performer (Honor Swinton Byrne).
Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 follow close behind with nominations in six categories apiece. On five were Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain And Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite.
Lining up alongside the aforementioned in contention for Film Of The Year are Joker, Knives Out, Midsommar and Portrait Of A Lady On Fire.
Florence Pugh received three nominations, lead actress for Midsommar, supporting for Little Women, and British/Irish Actress for her work across the year.
Winners will be announced on January 30. There will also be three special awards presented: animation specialists Aardman (Shaun The Sheep) will receive the 40th Anniversary Award,...
Martin Scorsese’s The Irishman and Sam Mendes’ 1917 follow close behind with nominations in six categories apiece. On five were Noah Baumbach’s Marriage Story, Pedro Almodóvar’s Pain And Glory and Bong Joon Ho’s Parasite.
Lining up alongside the aforementioned in contention for Film Of The Year are Joker, Knives Out, Midsommar and Portrait Of A Lady On Fire.
Florence Pugh received three nominations, lead actress for Midsommar, supporting for Little Women, and British/Irish Actress for her work across the year.
Winners will be announced on January 30. There will also be three special awards presented: animation specialists Aardman (Shaun The Sheep) will receive the 40th Anniversary Award,...
- 12/17/2019
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
The London Film Critics’ Circle added its voice to the mix of critical precursors this awards season, announcing a slate of nominees topped by Joanna Hogg’s “The Souvenir.”
The British writer-director’s delicate autobiographical drama won top honors at Sundance and was named the year’s best film in Sight & Sound magazine’s annual critics’ poll, but it hasn’t made much headway with U.S. awards groups. The U.K. critics, however, handed it seven nominations, including bids for Film of the Year, Screenwriter of the Year and Actor of the Year for Tom Burke, while mother-and-daughter stars Tilda Swinton and Honor Swinton Byrne also earned acting mentions.
“The Souvenir” was followed by Martin Scorsese’s presumed Oscar magnet “The Irishman” and Sam Mendes’ technically dazzling World War I thriller “1917,” both of which earned six nods. Three foreign=language films – Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite,” Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory...
The British writer-director’s delicate autobiographical drama won top honors at Sundance and was named the year’s best film in Sight & Sound magazine’s annual critics’ poll, but it hasn’t made much headway with U.S. awards groups. The U.K. critics, however, handed it seven nominations, including bids for Film of the Year, Screenwriter of the Year and Actor of the Year for Tom Burke, while mother-and-daughter stars Tilda Swinton and Honor Swinton Byrne also earned acting mentions.
“The Souvenir” was followed by Martin Scorsese’s presumed Oscar magnet “The Irishman” and Sam Mendes’ technically dazzling World War I thriller “1917,” both of which earned six nods. Three foreign=language films – Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite,” Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain and Glory...
- 12/17/2019
- by Guy Lodge
- Variety Film + TV
Epic concert films, the return of one of cinema’s longest-running franchises, explorations of the toll of modern war, a canine friendship for the ages, a vivid journey into space, the final film from a master director–these were just a few of the subjects and stories that this year’s documentary offerings brought us. With 2019 wrapping up, we’ve selected 20 features in the field that left us most impressed, so check out our list below and, in the comments, let us know your favorites.
63 Up (Michael Apted)
Revisiting the same subjects chosen from various walks of British life in 1964 at age seven, the latest installment, 63 Up, proves to be at times a moving sociological experiment with little surprise as it documents the lives of eleven ordinary British subjects it has followed for the past 56 years. Inspired by Francis Xavier’s quote, “Give me a child until he is seven...
63 Up (Michael Apted)
Revisiting the same subjects chosen from various walks of British life in 1964 at age seven, the latest installment, 63 Up, proves to be at times a moving sociological experiment with little surprise as it documents the lives of eleven ordinary British subjects it has followed for the past 56 years. Inspired by Francis Xavier’s quote, “Give me a child until he is seven...
- 12/12/2019
- by The Film Stage
- The Film Stage
Many documentaries suffer from a good-for-you coating, but the best ones have always been art in all its creativity, compassion and complexity, and 2019 was no exception. Whether personal or observed – straightforwardly told or formally experimental – the cream of this year’s bumper non-fiction crop dazzled with filmmaking brilliance.
Runners-Up: 2019 also floored me with the dance majesty of “Cunningham,” the gospel truth of “Amazing Grace,” the kids today of “Jawline,” the pointed jocularity of “Hail Satan?”, the nomadic poignance of “Midnight Traveler,” the testimonial heft of “Leaving Neverland,” the geopolitical smarts of “The Kingmaker,” the lush positivity of “The Biggest Little Farm,” the soulful breadth of “The Apollo,” and the patriotic power of “Knock Down the House.”
10. “The Island of Hungry Ghosts”
On Christmas Island, land crabs migrate under protection, while behind the walls of an Australian detention facility nearby, captured asylum seekers open up to a caring counselor. Gabrielle Brady...
Runners-Up: 2019 also floored me with the dance majesty of “Cunningham,” the gospel truth of “Amazing Grace,” the kids today of “Jawline,” the pointed jocularity of “Hail Satan?”, the nomadic poignance of “Midnight Traveler,” the testimonial heft of “Leaving Neverland,” the geopolitical smarts of “The Kingmaker,” the lush positivity of “The Biggest Little Farm,” the soulful breadth of “The Apollo,” and the patriotic power of “Knock Down the House.”
10. “The Island of Hungry Ghosts”
On Christmas Island, land crabs migrate under protection, while behind the walls of an Australian detention facility nearby, captured asylum seekers open up to a caring counselor. Gabrielle Brady...
- 12/10/2019
- by Robert Abele
- The Wrap
The Detroit Film Critics Society is pleased to announce the Best of 2019 winners in twelve categories. The Detroit Film Critics Society was founded in Spring 2007 and consists of a group of 19 film critics from Michigan who write or broadcast in the metro-Detroit area as well as other major cities including Ann Arbor; Grand Rapids; and Toledo, Ohio.
Each critic submitted their top five (5) picks in the following twelve (12) categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Ensemble, and Breakthrough in any category, Best Screenplay, Best Documentary, Best Animated Feature, and Best Use of Music.
From these submissions, each entry was given a point value and the top five entries in each category were placed on the final ballot. In the event of a tie, more than five entries were placed on the ballot. The final ballots were then given to each critic to rank in order.
Each critic submitted their top five (5) picks in the following twelve (12) categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Ensemble, and Breakthrough in any category, Best Screenplay, Best Documentary, Best Animated Feature, and Best Use of Music.
From these submissions, each entry was given a point value and the top five entries in each category were placed on the final ballot. In the event of a tie, more than five entries were placed on the ballot. The final ballots were then given to each critic to rank in order.
- 12/9/2019
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
The Detroit Film Critics Society is pleased to announce the Best of 2019 nominees in twelve categories. The winners will be announced on Monday, December 9, 2019. The Detroit Film Critics Society was founded in the Spring of 2007 and consists of a group of 19 film critics with a Michigan connection who write or broadcast in the Detroit area as well as other major cities including Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, Kalamazoo, Lansing, and Flint, Michigan; and Toledo, Ohio.
Each critic submitted their top five (5) picks in the following categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Ensemble, and Breakthrough in any category, Best Screenplay, Best Documentary, Best Animated Feature, and Best Use of Music.
From these submissions, each entry was given a point value and the top five entries in each category were placed on the final ballot.
The final ballots will now be given to...
Each critic submitted their top five (5) picks in the following categories: Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Supporting Actress, Best Ensemble, and Breakthrough in any category, Best Screenplay, Best Documentary, Best Animated Feature, and Best Use of Music.
From these submissions, each entry was given a point value and the top five entries in each category were placed on the final ballot.
The final ballots will now be given to...
- 12/6/2019
- by Mike Tyrkus
- CinemaNerdz
Michael Apted’s 63 Up and Agnès Varda’s Varda By Agnès on the Film Forum marquee over Thanksgiving Photo: Anne-Katrin Titze
On the occasion of the Us theatrical première of 63 Up at Film Forum in New York, Michael Apted participated in three post-screening Q&As. The director who has been involved with the Up series of documentaries from the start, beginning with seven-year-olds, has continued on doggedly through 7 Plus Seven, 21 Up, 28 Up, 35 Up, 42 Up, 49 Up, 56 Up, and also found time to make feature films in-between, which include Gorillas In The Mist, Coal Miner's Daughter, Enigma, Extreme Measures, Amazing Grace, and his take on James Bond, starring Pierce Brosnan in The World Is Not Enough.
Michael Apted with Anne-Katrin Titze on Tom Hanks as Mister Rogers and the inner child in Marielle Heller's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood: “Where did they get this from? Shall I have a word with Mr.
On the occasion of the Us theatrical première of 63 Up at Film Forum in New York, Michael Apted participated in three post-screening Q&As. The director who has been involved with the Up series of documentaries from the start, beginning with seven-year-olds, has continued on doggedly through 7 Plus Seven, 21 Up, 28 Up, 35 Up, 42 Up, 49 Up, 56 Up, and also found time to make feature films in-between, which include Gorillas In The Mist, Coal Miner's Daughter, Enigma, Extreme Measures, Amazing Grace, and his take on James Bond, starring Pierce Brosnan in The World Is Not Enough.
Michael Apted with Anne-Katrin Titze on Tom Hanks as Mister Rogers and the inner child in Marielle Heller's A Beautiful Day In The Neighborhood: “Where did they get this from? Shall I have a word with Mr.
- 12/2/2019
- by Anne-Katrin Titze
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
John Waters has revealed his top 10 films list for Artforum and, in keeping with the “Pink Flamingos” director’s typically eccentric taste, it’s always a dark treat. His top pick for the year is Gaspar Noé’s acid-laced dance freakout “Climax.” “Frenzied dance numbers combined with LSD, mental breakdowns, and childhood trauma turn this nutcase drama into ‘The Red Shoes’ meets ‘Hallucination Generation,'” Waters wrote.
Waters is also high on “Joker,” the most controversial movie of the year. “Irresponsible? Maybe. Dangerous? We’ll see. The first big-budget Hollywood movie to gleefully inspire anarchy. Bravo, Todd Phillips! Only you could get away with it,” Waters wrote. It’s number 10 on his list, which also includes Bruno Dumont’s “Joan of Arc,” the creepy Swedish fairytale “Border,” Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” Joanna Hogg’s “The Souvenir” (which topped Sight & Sound’s recent list), Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain & Glory,...
Waters is also high on “Joker,” the most controversial movie of the year. “Irresponsible? Maybe. Dangerous? We’ll see. The first big-budget Hollywood movie to gleefully inspire anarchy. Bravo, Todd Phillips! Only you could get away with it,” Waters wrote. It’s number 10 on his list, which also includes Bruno Dumont’s “Joan of Arc,” the creepy Swedish fairytale “Border,” Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood,” Joanna Hogg’s “The Souvenir” (which topped Sight & Sound’s recent list), Pedro Almodóvar’s “Pain & Glory,...
- 12/1/2019
- by Ryan Lattanzio
- Indiewire
The onslaught of best-of-the-year lists from guilds and critics groups have only just begun, but one of the few of genuine interest each year comes from a single person: the wonderfully eccentric director John Waters, whose eclectic tastes always includes a mix of the unexpected and underseen.
Topping his list this year is Gaspar Noé’s drug-fueled dance freak-out Climax. Also on his list is Bruno Dumont’s sequel to Waters’ #1 film of 2017, Jeannette: The Childhood of Joan of Arc, as well as the latest films from Quentin Tarantino and Pedro Almodóvar. As he already revealed, his love for Joker is present as is Penny Lane’s documentary on the Satanic Temple and Fatih Akin’s virtually universally reviled serial killer drama The Golden Glove. Curiously, the enchanting off-kilter fairy tale Border made the list, even though it came out last year.
Check out the list below courtesy of Art Forum,...
Topping his list this year is Gaspar Noé’s drug-fueled dance freak-out Climax. Also on his list is Bruno Dumont’s sequel to Waters’ #1 film of 2017, Jeannette: The Childhood of Joan of Arc, as well as the latest films from Quentin Tarantino and Pedro Almodóvar. As he already revealed, his love for Joker is present as is Penny Lane’s documentary on the Satanic Temple and Fatih Akin’s virtually universally reviled serial killer drama The Golden Glove. Curiously, the enchanting off-kilter fairy tale Border made the list, even though it came out last year.
Check out the list below courtesy of Art Forum,...
- 12/1/2019
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
The theatrical market for documentary films is in “robust shape,” with 2019 proving to be a strong year for the genre after an exceptional 2018, reports Oli Harbottle, head of distribution and acquisitions at leading U.K. documentary outfit Dogwoof.
Harbottle says 2019 was always going to struggle to match 2018’s “blockbuster” year, which saw the release of hits “Rbg,” “Free Solo,” “Three Identical Strangers” and “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” All four surpassed $10 million in ticket sales at the U.S. box office, with “Free Solo” taking nearly $30 million worldwide.
“The big question was whether 2018 was a weird anomaly and a bubble with those four films,” says Harbottle. “I would say thankfully no. It looks like the market is in robust shape in terms of documentaries that have been able to deliver at the box office this year.”
Although this year hasn’t seen the same number of blockbuster successes, space doc...
Harbottle says 2019 was always going to struggle to match 2018’s “blockbuster” year, which saw the release of hits “Rbg,” “Free Solo,” “Three Identical Strangers” and “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?” All four surpassed $10 million in ticket sales at the U.S. box office, with “Free Solo” taking nearly $30 million worldwide.
“The big question was whether 2018 was a weird anomaly and a bubble with those four films,” says Harbottle. “I would say thankfully no. It looks like the market is in robust shape in terms of documentaries that have been able to deliver at the box office this year.”
Although this year hasn’t seen the same number of blockbuster successes, space doc...
- 11/25/2019
- by Tim Dams
- Variety Film + TV
As 2019 winds down, like most cinephiles, we’re looking to get our hands on the titles that may have slipped under the radar or simply gone unseen. With the proliferation of streaming options, it’s thankfully easier than ever to play catch-up for those films you missed in a theater (or never came to your town), and to assist with the process, we’re bringing you a rundown of the best titles of the year available to watch.
Curated from the Best Films of 2019 So Far list we published for the first half of the year, it also includes films we’ve enjoyed the past few months and some we’ve recently caught up with. This is far from a be-all, end-all year-end feature (that will come at the end of the year), but rather something that will hopefully be a helpful tool for readers to have a chance to seek out notable,...
Curated from the Best Films of 2019 So Far list we published for the first half of the year, it also includes films we’ve enjoyed the past few months and some we’ve recently caught up with. This is far from a be-all, end-all year-end feature (that will come at the end of the year), but rather something that will hopefully be a helpful tool for readers to have a chance to seek out notable,...
- 11/25/2019
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
By Glenn Dunks
Have you heard? The Academy has announced the longlist of eligible titles for the 2019 Best Documentary Feature category. All 159 of ‘em; they don’t call it a longlist for nothing. The 15-wide shortlist will be derived from these and from there the five nominees will be chosen by the documentary branch.
As I suspected, Peter Jackson’s They Shall Not Grow Old is not on the list. It is also worth noting – as I have done all year – that Amazing Grace gambled with the odds last year on a qualifying run and sadly didn’t make it. There were only a few films that we have written about in Doc Corner that either did not submit or were not eligible including Vision Portraits, The Raft, Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-Blaché and Beyoncé’s Homecoming would be the best of that lot.
All the big...
Have you heard? The Academy has announced the longlist of eligible titles for the 2019 Best Documentary Feature category. All 159 of ‘em; they don’t call it a longlist for nothing. The 15-wide shortlist will be derived from these and from there the five nominees will be chosen by the documentary branch.
As I suspected, Peter Jackson’s They Shall Not Grow Old is not on the list. It is also worth noting – as I have done all year – that Amazing Grace gambled with the odds last year on a qualifying run and sadly didn’t make it. There were only a few films that we have written about in Doc Corner that either did not submit or were not eligible including Vision Portraits, The Raft, Be Natural: The Untold Story of Alice Guy-Blaché and Beyoncé’s Homecoming would be the best of that lot.
All the big...
- 11/13/2019
- by Glenn Dunks
- FilmExperience
“Apollo 11” was the big winner at the fourth annual Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards on Sunday in New York City.
The film took home the award for documentary feature, as well as editing for Todd Douglas Miller and score for Matt Morton. “Apollo 11” was also honored with archival documentary and science/nature documentary prizes.
There was a tie for director between Peter Jackson for “They Shall Not Grow Old,” and Julia Reichert and Steven Bognar for “American Factory.” “They Shall Not Grow Old” also brought home the award for innovative documentary. “American Factory” nabbed the prize for political documentary.
The inaugural D. A. Pennebaker Award, formerly known as the Critics’ Choice lifetime achievement award, was presented to Chris Hegedus, Pennebaker’s longtime collaborator and widow. Michael Apted received the landmark award in honor of his “Up” series.
The ceremony, hosted by “Property Brothers” star Jonathan Scott, was held at Bric in Brooklyn.
The film took home the award for documentary feature, as well as editing for Todd Douglas Miller and score for Matt Morton. “Apollo 11” was also honored with archival documentary and science/nature documentary prizes.
There was a tie for director between Peter Jackson for “They Shall Not Grow Old,” and Julia Reichert and Steven Bognar for “American Factory.” “They Shall Not Grow Old” also brought home the award for innovative documentary. “American Factory” nabbed the prize for political documentary.
The inaugural D. A. Pennebaker Award, formerly known as the Critics’ Choice lifetime achievement award, was presented to Chris Hegedus, Pennebaker’s longtime collaborator and widow. Michael Apted received the landmark award in honor of his “Up” series.
The ceremony, hosted by “Property Brothers” star Jonathan Scott, was held at Bric in Brooklyn.
- 11/11/2019
- by Marc Malkin
- Variety Film + TV
Jennifer Hudson is showing some respect for The Queen of Soul.
On Tuesday, the Dreamgirls actress, 38, was photographed in New York City while on the set of Respect, the 2020 biopic film based on the life of Aretha Franklin.
In the photos, Hudson, who portrays the legendary singer in the movie, got into character wearing a retro-style bun paired with an over-sized tweed coat and elaborate earrings, as she walked the streets beside costar Marlon Wayans, who plays Franklin’s first husband, Ted White.
Wayans, 47, looked the part dressed in a plaid coat, grey suit and a classic feathered-fedora hat. One...
On Tuesday, the Dreamgirls actress, 38, was photographed in New York City while on the set of Respect, the 2020 biopic film based on the life of Aretha Franklin.
In the photos, Hudson, who portrays the legendary singer in the movie, got into character wearing a retro-style bun paired with an over-sized tweed coat and elaborate earrings, as she walked the streets beside costar Marlon Wayans, who plays Franklin’s first husband, Ted White.
Wayans, 47, looked the part dressed in a plaid coat, grey suit and a classic feathered-fedora hat. One...
- 11/6/2019
- by Eric Todisco
- PEOPLE.com
There is a certain amount of dramatic tension that animates “Gay Chorus Deep South,” a documentary directed by David Charles Rodrigues that follows the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus, which is joined by the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir, as they travel around Mississippi, Tennessee, Alabama, and the Carolinas.
As is pointed out in explanatory text at the beginning of the film, several states in the South have bills pending that would allow discrimination of Lgbt people on the grounds of religious beliefs, and so it was felt that a tour with these choirs might do some good to change some hearts.
Tim Seelig is the leader of the Gay Men’s Chorus from San Francisco, and he is the de facto lead of “Gay Chorus Deep South.” He is an older man with a level gaze, and it is only as the film goes on that we learn the story...
As is pointed out in explanatory text at the beginning of the film, several states in the South have bills pending that would allow discrimination of Lgbt people on the grounds of religious beliefs, and so it was felt that a tour with these choirs might do some good to change some hearts.
Tim Seelig is the leader of the Gay Men’s Chorus from San Francisco, and he is the de facto lead of “Gay Chorus Deep South.” He is an older man with a level gaze, and it is only as the film goes on that we learn the story...
- 10/30/2019
- by Dan Callahan
- The Wrap
The International Documentary Association revealed nominations for the 2019 Ida Awards, with Neon landing three films in the Best Feature competition, including “Apollo 11” and “Honeyland,” which led the field with three nominations, as well as”The Biggest Little Farm.” “Honeyland” will also collect the Pare Lorentz Award, while Neon’s “Amazing Grace” landed a Best Music Documentary nomination. (The film qualified for the Oscar last year.)
For the first time, the Ida will present an award for Best Director and, notably, all of the nominated films in that category are directed by women. “We felt the need to more clearly acknowledge the creativity and bold directorial vision that is behind many of the films we are privileged to consider,” said Ida’s Executive Director Simon Kilmurry.
First awarded in 2001, the Ida gives the Courage Under Fire Award to documentarians who display conspicuous bravery in the pursuit of truth, putting freedom...
For the first time, the Ida will present an award for Best Director and, notably, all of the nominated films in that category are directed by women. “We felt the need to more clearly acknowledge the creativity and bold directorial vision that is behind many of the films we are privileged to consider,” said Ida’s Executive Director Simon Kilmurry.
First awarded in 2001, the Ida gives the Courage Under Fire Award to documentarians who display conspicuous bravery in the pursuit of truth, putting freedom...
- 10/23/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
by Chris Feil
In the year and change since Aretha Franklin has passed, it feels as if she never left, much as it often does when an artist’s legacy feels as eternal as hers. It’s not just that the Aretha songbook has remained as omnipresent in our culture as ever, but her place remained as cemented this year with the successful release of Amazing Grace. The concert doc captures the live recording of Franklin’s highest selling album of the same name, her first that was fully in the gospel genre that fostered her otherworldly gift. But perhaps what made the film feel even more special in the months after her death isn’t just the opportunity to witness her at peak powers, but also to see fragments of a more personal side revealed.
In the year and change since Aretha Franklin has passed, it feels as if she never left, much as it often does when an artist’s legacy feels as eternal as hers. It’s not just that the Aretha songbook has remained as omnipresent in our culture as ever, but her place remained as cemented this year with the successful release of Amazing Grace. The concert doc captures the live recording of Franklin’s highest selling album of the same name, her first that was fully in the gospel genre that fostered her otherworldly gift. But perhaps what made the film feel even more special in the months after her death isn’t just the opportunity to witness her at peak powers, but also to see fragments of a more personal side revealed.
- 10/16/2019
- by Chris Feil
- FilmExperience
John Chester‘s “The Biggest Little Farm” leads the fourth annual Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards with seven nominations, including Best Documentary Feature and Best Director. Right behind it with six bids apiece are Todd Douglas Miller‘s “Apollo 11” and Peter Jackson‘s “They Shall Not Grow Old.” The other eight films nominated for the top prize are “American Factory,” “The Cave,” “Honeyland,” “The Kingmaker,” “Knock Down the House,” “Leaving Neverland,” “Maiden,” and “One Child Nation.”
Chester’s newest documentary follows his family’s journey as they develop a sustainable farm outside of Los Angeles. As the Ccda nomination leader it follows in the footsteps of last year’s eventual Academy Awards winner “Free Solo” who led this group’s field with six nominations. “Free Solo” may have won at the Oscars and three Ccda awards, but it lost the main prize here to “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?...
Chester’s newest documentary follows his family’s journey as they develop a sustainable farm outside of Los Angeles. As the Ccda nomination leader it follows in the footsteps of last year’s eventual Academy Awards winner “Free Solo” who led this group’s field with six nominations. “Free Solo” may have won at the Oscars and three Ccda awards, but it lost the main prize here to “Won’t You Be My Neighbor?...
- 10/15/2019
- by John Benutty
- Gold Derby
“The Biggest Little Farm” leads nominees for the fourth annual Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards, with seven bids, followed by “Apollo 11” and “They Shall Not Grow Old.” “One Child Nation” received five nominations.
The winners will be presented their awards at a gala, hosted by Property Brothers’ Jonathan Scott, on Nov. 10 at Bric in Brooklyn.
The awards honor documentaries released in theaters, on TV and on major digital platforms, as determined by the voting of qualified Cca members.
A new honor, the D.A. Pennebaker Award, will be presented to Frederick Wiseman. Michael Apted will receive the landmark award for his work on the “Up” series of films, with “63 Up” opening this year.
“As the film and television industry constantly evolves, documentaries remain a vibrant creative art form that entertains as well as informs,” said Cca CEO Joey Berlin. “We are proud that our awards event has become a...
The winners will be presented their awards at a gala, hosted by Property Brothers’ Jonathan Scott, on Nov. 10 at Bric in Brooklyn.
The awards honor documentaries released in theaters, on TV and on major digital platforms, as determined by the voting of qualified Cca members.
A new honor, the D.A. Pennebaker Award, will be presented to Frederick Wiseman. Michael Apted will receive the landmark award for his work on the “Up” series of films, with “63 Up” opening this year.
“As the film and television industry constantly evolves, documentaries remain a vibrant creative art form that entertains as well as informs,” said Cca CEO Joey Berlin. “We are proud that our awards event has become a...
- 10/14/2019
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
John Chester’s “The Biggest Little Farm,” a film about a husband and wife trying to establish a small farm in Southern California, led all films in nominations for the fourth annual Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards, the Critics Choice Association announced on Monday.
The film received seven nominations in 16 categories, including Best Documentary Feature and Best Director. Todd Douglas Miller’s “Apollo 11,” which used 50-year-old footage to reconstruct the moon mission, received six, as did Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old,” which used enhanced 100-year-old footage to bring World War I to movie screens in special-event engagements.
Other films nominated in the Best Documentary Feature category are “American Factory,” “The Cave,” “Honeyland,” “The Kingmaker,” “Knock Down the House,” “Maiden” and “One Child Nation.” And because the Bfca has given up trying to draw a line between film and television docs, the HBO two-part series “Leaving Neverland” was...
The film received seven nominations in 16 categories, including Best Documentary Feature and Best Director. Todd Douglas Miller’s “Apollo 11,” which used 50-year-old footage to reconstruct the moon mission, received six, as did Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old,” which used enhanced 100-year-old footage to bring World War I to movie screens in special-event engagements.
Other films nominated in the Best Documentary Feature category are “American Factory,” “The Cave,” “Honeyland,” “The Kingmaker,” “Knock Down the House,” “Maiden” and “One Child Nation.” And because the Bfca has given up trying to draw a line between film and television docs, the HBO two-part series “Leaving Neverland” was...
- 10/14/2019
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Leading this year’s batch of Critics Choice Association nominees for the fourth annual Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards are two Neon box-office hits, “The Biggest Little Farm” with seven nominations and “Apollo 11” with six, as well as Warner Bros.’ smash “They Shall Not Grow Old” with six.
The winners will accept their awards honoring achievement in documentaries on Sunday, November 10, at Bric in Brooklyn, New York. Qualified Critics Choice Association members across the country voted for these nominees (including this writer).
With the most nominations in the field, John Chester’s “The Biggest Little Farm” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Narration, and Best Science/Nature Documentary.
Todd Douglas Miller’s “Apollo 11” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Archival Documentary, and Best Science/Nature Documentary. Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old...
The winners will accept their awards honoring achievement in documentaries on Sunday, November 10, at Bric in Brooklyn, New York. Qualified Critics Choice Association members across the country voted for these nominees (including this writer).
With the most nominations in the field, John Chester’s “The Biggest Little Farm” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Narration, and Best Science/Nature Documentary.
Todd Douglas Miller’s “Apollo 11” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Archival Documentary, and Best Science/Nature Documentary. Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old...
- 10/14/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Leading this year’s batch of Critics Choice Association nominees for the fourth annual Critics’ Choice Documentary Awards are two Neon box-office hits, “The Biggest Little Farm” with seven nominations and “Apollo 11” with six, as well as Warner Bros.’ smash “They Shall Not Grow Old” with six.
The winners will accept their awards honoring achievement in documentaries on Sunday, November 10, at Bric in Brooklyn, New York. Qualified Critics Choice Association members across the country voted for these nominees (including this writer).
With the most nominations in the field, John Chester’s “The Biggest Little Farm” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Narration, and Best Science/Nature Documentary.
Todd Douglas Miller’s “Apollo 11” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Archival Documentary, and Best Science/Nature Documentary. Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old...
The winners will accept their awards honoring achievement in documentaries on Sunday, November 10, at Bric in Brooklyn, New York. Qualified Critics Choice Association members across the country voted for these nominees (including this writer).
With the most nominations in the field, John Chester’s “The Biggest Little Farm” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Cinematography, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Narration, and Best Science/Nature Documentary.
Todd Douglas Miller’s “Apollo 11” was nominated for Best Documentary Feature, Best Director, Best Editing, Best Score, Best Archival Documentary, and Best Science/Nature Documentary. Peter Jackson’s “They Shall Not Grow Old...
- 10/14/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The International Documentary Association has announced its shortlist for best feature, a category that includes “Apollo 11,” “American Factory,” “Diego Maradona,” “The Biggest Little Farm,” and the Aretha Franklin concert film “Amazing Grace.”
The 2019 awards will be presented during a ceremony at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Dec. 7. Up to 10 nominees in each of the categories will be selected from the shortlist and announced on Oct. 23, when nominees in all categories are announced. Ida members will have access to nominated films to vote for Best Feature and Best Short starting Nov. 4.
For the first time, the Ida will present an award for best director. Awards will be presented in the following categories: best feature, best short, best curated series, best episodic series, best multi-part documentary, best short form series, best audio documentary, David L. Wolper Student Documentary Award, best music documentary, best director, best cinematography, best editing, best writing,...
The 2019 awards will be presented during a ceremony at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Dec. 7. Up to 10 nominees in each of the categories will be selected from the shortlist and announced on Oct. 23, when nominees in all categories are announced. Ida members will have access to nominated films to vote for Best Feature and Best Short starting Nov. 4.
For the first time, the Ida will present an award for best director. Awards will be presented in the following categories: best feature, best short, best curated series, best episodic series, best multi-part documentary, best short form series, best audio documentary, David L. Wolper Student Documentary Award, best music documentary, best director, best cinematography, best editing, best writing,...
- 10/10/2019
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
The International Documentary Association (Ida) has revealed the 35th Annual Ida Documentary Awards shortlists for the Best Feature and Best Short categories, culled from 785 submissions: 375 documentary features, 153 documentary shorts, 124 documentary series, 89 student films, 44 podcasts, and 48 music documentaries. After winnowing down each list to up to ten nominees to be announced on Wednesday, October 23, online screeners will be accessible for viewing as of November 4, followed by the Ida membership voting.
The 2019 Awards will be presented at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Saturday, December 7. The Ida will bestow awards in 16 categories. This year, the Ida has changed how craft awards are selected: cinematographers, editors, writers and composers will do the honors. And for the first time, the Ida will present an award for Best Director.
The awards categories include Best Feature, Best Short, Best Curated Series, Best Episodic Series, Best Multi-Part Documentary, Best Short Form Series, Best Audio Documentary, David L. Wolper Student Documentary Award,...
The 2019 Awards will be presented at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Saturday, December 7. The Ida will bestow awards in 16 categories. This year, the Ida has changed how craft awards are selected: cinematographers, editors, writers and composers will do the honors. And for the first time, the Ida will present an award for Best Director.
The awards categories include Best Feature, Best Short, Best Curated Series, Best Episodic Series, Best Multi-Part Documentary, Best Short Form Series, Best Audio Documentary, David L. Wolper Student Documentary Award,...
- 10/10/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
The International Documentary Association (Ida) has revealed the 35th Annual Ida Documentary Awards shortlists for the Best Feature and Best Short categories, culled from 785 submissions: 375 documentary features, 153 documentary shorts, 124 documentary series, 89 student films, 44 podcasts, and 48 music documentaries. After winnowing down each list to up to ten nominees to be announced on Wednesday, October 23, online screeners will be accessible for viewing as of November 4, followed by the Ida membership voting.
The 2019 Awards will be presented at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Saturday, December 7. The Ida will bestow awards in 16 categories. This year, the Ida has changed how craft awards are selected: cinematographers, editors, writers and composers will do the honors. And for the first time, the Ida will present an award for Best Director.
The awards categories include Best Feature, Best Short, Best Curated Series, Best Episodic Series, Best Multi-Part Documentary, Best Short Form Series, Best Audio Documentary, David L. Wolper Student Documentary Award,...
The 2019 Awards will be presented at Paramount Studios in Los Angeles on Saturday, December 7. The Ida will bestow awards in 16 categories. This year, the Ida has changed how craft awards are selected: cinematographers, editors, writers and composers will do the honors. And for the first time, the Ida will present an award for Best Director.
The awards categories include Best Feature, Best Short, Best Curated Series, Best Episodic Series, Best Multi-Part Documentary, Best Short Form Series, Best Audio Documentary, David L. Wolper Student Documentary Award,...
- 10/10/2019
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
The Aretha Franklin documentary “Amazing Grace,” the moon-mission chronicle “Apollo 11” and the first film from Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, “American Factory,” have made the short list for the International Documentary Association’s 2019 Ida Documentary Awards, the Ida announced on Thursday.
The announcement narrows the field to 30 feature films and 21 shorts that will move on to a second round of voting.
The IDA’s short list of 30 feature films contains 10 films that were on Doc NYC’s recent 15-film list of the year’s likeliest nonfiction awards contenders: “American Factory,” “The Apollo,” “Apollo 11,” “The Biggest Little Farm,” “The Cave,” “Diego Maradona,” “The Edge of Democracy,” “For Sama,” “Honeyland” and “One Child Nation.”
Additional films on the Ida’s list include “Amazing Grace,...
The announcement narrows the field to 30 feature films and 21 shorts that will move on to a second round of voting.
The IDA’s short list of 30 feature films contains 10 films that were on Doc NYC’s recent 15-film list of the year’s likeliest nonfiction awards contenders: “American Factory,” “The Apollo,” “Apollo 11,” “The Biggest Little Farm,” “The Cave,” “Diego Maradona,” “The Edge of Democracy,” “For Sama,” “Honeyland” and “One Child Nation.”
Additional films on the Ida’s list include “Amazing Grace,...
- 10/10/2019
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
Warning: spoilers for the first episode of Riverdale season 4's first episode ahead.
Riverdale's season four premiere, titled "In Memorium," finally aired on the CW on Wednesday, and to say it was emotional would be an understatement. "I think it's a real tribute to Luke," showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa said during the Television Critics Association Summer press tour. "I think it's a real tribute to Fred. I think it's very cathartic to watch it, and I think everyone really came together, specifically to tell this kind of story, to honor Luke and honor Fred . . . It's a really simple - it's one of our . . . just beautiful."
The episode also featured a special appearance by Perry's former Beverly Hills, 90210 castmate, Shannen Doherty, which was confirmed at San Diego Comic-Con in July. Doherty also posted about the news on Instagram with two photos of her and Perry. "I am deeply honored to pay tribute to Luke on Riverdale,...
Riverdale's season four premiere, titled "In Memorium," finally aired on the CW on Wednesday, and to say it was emotional would be an understatement. "I think it's a real tribute to Luke," showrunner Roberto Aguirre-Sacasa said during the Television Critics Association Summer press tour. "I think it's a real tribute to Fred. I think it's very cathartic to watch it, and I think everyone really came together, specifically to tell this kind of story, to honor Luke and honor Fred . . . It's a really simple - it's one of our . . . just beautiful."
The episode also featured a special appearance by Perry's former Beverly Hills, 90210 castmate, Shannen Doherty, which was confirmed at San Diego Comic-Con in July. Doherty also posted about the news on Instagram with two photos of her and Perry. "I am deeply honored to pay tribute to Luke on Riverdale,...
- 10/10/2019
- by Brea Cubit
- Popsugar.com
If you're an emotional crier, Riverdale Season 4 Episode 1 is going to be a tough hour to get through. The tears will be strong and they will flow freely.
The sudden death of Luke Perry was a devastating loss for everyone. No one expected to lose him abruptly; the world is less bright without him in it.
"Chapter Fifty-Eight: In Memoriam" is a great tribute hour recognizing his impact as Fred Andrews and the kind-hearted man/father he brought to our lives.
One of the big questions discussed when Riverdale Season 4 went into production was how the show would approach his passing in the new season.
Would they write out the character or not discuss it at all? If the former, how would they do it?
The decision for Fred to leave Riverdale as a hero is a fitting end for both the character and Luke's honor.
Fred Andrews was genuinely a nice guy.
The sudden death of Luke Perry was a devastating loss for everyone. No one expected to lose him abruptly; the world is less bright without him in it.
"Chapter Fifty-Eight: In Memoriam" is a great tribute hour recognizing his impact as Fred Andrews and the kind-hearted man/father he brought to our lives.
One of the big questions discussed when Riverdale Season 4 went into production was how the show would approach his passing in the new season.
Would they write out the character or not discuss it at all? If the former, how would they do it?
The decision for Fred to leave Riverdale as a hero is a fitting end for both the character and Luke's honor.
Fred Andrews was genuinely a nice guy.
- 10/10/2019
- by Justin Carreiro
- TVfanatic
The Riverdale episode we’ve all been dreading is here, as the cast and crew say goodbye to Luke Perry with a beautifully restrained tribute episode.
Yes, precious little of Riverdale‘s usual loopiness is on display in Wednesday’s Season 4 premiere — although we do get Cheryl chatting with Jason’s corpse over morning tea and snidely referring Jughead to “Insufferable Smurf.” The town is busy preparing for its first Fourth of July parade in years, and Archie, Veronica, Betty and Jughead are planning a camping trip ahead of senior year. (Jughead even cracks a joke about Archie’s close encounter with a bear.
Yes, precious little of Riverdale‘s usual loopiness is on display in Wednesday’s Season 4 premiere — although we do get Cheryl chatting with Jason’s corpse over morning tea and snidely referring Jughead to “Insufferable Smurf.” The town is busy preparing for its first Fourth of July parade in years, and Archie, Veronica, Betty and Jughead are planning a camping trip ahead of senior year. (Jughead even cracks a joke about Archie’s close encounter with a bear.
- 10/10/2019
- TVLine.com
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