Boxing has always transferred well to the screen because it is an individual sport with individual stories. Boxers may have family, friends, managers, and a training corner, but aside from ringside yells of "cover-up!" and "go to the body!" these fighters are on their own. This isn't tennis or golf, and the stakes are higher than returning your opponent's serve or knocking a small white ball into a hole. This is boxing, a game of rules-based violence that sanitizes aggression into a test of speed, power, tactics, and strategy.
It is not just the ring that's fertile dramatic ground, either. Much of the intensity comes from these fighters' lives, which are often marked by crime, poverty, and hardship. It is no wonder that cinema has seen so many boxing films in its 120+ year history, producing a great deal of wheat but also a fair amount of chaff. To help you navigate this broad oeuvre,...
It is not just the ring that's fertile dramatic ground, either. Much of the intensity comes from these fighters' lives, which are often marked by crime, poverty, and hardship. It is no wonder that cinema has seen so many boxing films in its 120+ year history, producing a great deal of wheat but also a fair amount of chaff. To help you navigate this broad oeuvre,...
- 8/25/2022
- by Jack Hawkins
- Slash Film
A young couple on an awkward first date become counterculture fugitives in this powerful directorial debut
This arresting debut feature from Melina Matsoukas – Grammy-award winning director of Beyoncé’s Formation video, whose television CV includes Master of None and Insecure – puts new twists on familiar outlaw riffs that can be traced back through Badlands and Bonnie and Clyde to À bout de souffle and beyond. Boasting outstandingly empathic performances from dynamite screen presence Daniel Kaluuya (Oscar-nominated for Get Out) and rising star Jodie Turner-Smith, in a career-making first feature lead, it’s an intoxicatingly lawless lovers-on-the-run romance played out against the politically charged backdrop of racially divided modern America.
Shot in a dreamy natural light by Tat Radcliffe, who did such remarkable work on French-Algerian director Yann Demange’s Belfast-set ’71, and sensuously scored by Devonté Hynes (aka Blood Orange), Queen & Slim immerses its audience in an unfolding road-movie fable. While...
This arresting debut feature from Melina Matsoukas – Grammy-award winning director of Beyoncé’s Formation video, whose television CV includes Master of None and Insecure – puts new twists on familiar outlaw riffs that can be traced back through Badlands and Bonnie and Clyde to À bout de souffle and beyond. Boasting outstandingly empathic performances from dynamite screen presence Daniel Kaluuya (Oscar-nominated for Get Out) and rising star Jodie Turner-Smith, in a career-making first feature lead, it’s an intoxicatingly lawless lovers-on-the-run romance played out against the politically charged backdrop of racially divided modern America.
Shot in a dreamy natural light by Tat Radcliffe, who did such remarkable work on French-Algerian director Yann Demange’s Belfast-set ’71, and sensuously scored by Devonté Hynes (aka Blood Orange), Queen & Slim immerses its audience in an unfolding road-movie fable. While...
- 2/2/2020
- by Mark Kermode, Observer film critic
- The Guardian - Film News
Read more from Variety’s Directors on Directors, in which filmmakers praise their favorite movies of the year, here.
“Queen & Slim,” directed by Melina Matsoukas, scripted by Lena Waithe, is one of the most impressive debut features of the year. Matsoukas has crafted a film that’s not only something new; it’s undeniably something more — an unexpected baptism, through cinematic displays of images that haunt us long after she fades to black.
Matsoukas is known for directing viral videos that provoke and redefine us, like “Formation” for Beyoncé, “We Found Love” for Rihanna and “Losing You” for Solange Knowles. Like her multi-award-winning music videos, “Queen & Slim” never disappoints. A rushing tide of fresh possibilities come into sharper focus with Melina’s vision and her unapologetically defiant voice.
Matsoukas knows how to evoke the spirit of our times, and more importantly, the danger of our times, with unforgettable...
“Queen & Slim,” directed by Melina Matsoukas, scripted by Lena Waithe, is one of the most impressive debut features of the year. Matsoukas has crafted a film that’s not only something new; it’s undeniably something more — an unexpected baptism, through cinematic displays of images that haunt us long after she fades to black.
Matsoukas is known for directing viral videos that provoke and redefine us, like “Formation” for Beyoncé, “We Found Love” for Rihanna and “Losing You” for Solange Knowles. Like her multi-award-winning music videos, “Queen & Slim” never disappoints. A rushing tide of fresh possibilities come into sharper focus with Melina’s vision and her unapologetically defiant voice.
Matsoukas knows how to evoke the spirit of our times, and more importantly, the danger of our times, with unforgettable...
- 12/18/2019
- by Julie Dash
- Variety Film + TV
Racial justice and the outrage at its absence courses through the visual and emotional powerhouse that is Queen and Slim. There’s also the exhilaration that comes from watching talents new to movies seize their moment with a passion that pins you to your seat. Director Melina Matsoukas — and artist of Greek and Afro-Cuban heritage — is best known for music videos such as Beyonce’s “Formation”; she also helmed Master of None‘s brilliant “Thanksgiving,” episode of Master of None, the same episode that made screenwriter Lena Waithe the first...
- 11/26/2019
- by Peter Travers
- Rollingstone.com
Some films are easy to discuss. Others are difficult to break down, especially when it comes to their problematic elements. Queen & Slim decidedly falls into the latter category, mixing some really strong moments with a number of issues that holds it back. For all of the strong performances, compelling ideas, and quality cinematography on display, too many of the choices made, particularly in the back half of the movie, sabotage a potential laden tale. Instead of soaring towards the heights of Academy Award contention, it instead sinks down to become an interesting failure. Considering all of the potential here, it’s a definite disappointment. The movie is a drama with a lot to say. At the start, we’re just observing the middle of a forgettable date between two African American individuals. The man (Daniel Kaluuya) and the woman (Jodie Turner-Smith) are not well matched. He works in retail and believes in religion,...
- 11/25/2019
- by Joey Magidson
- Hollywoodnews.com
True crime stories usually like to focus on the rise and fall of someone we know in our hearts is due justice. We may like him or her, but there’s never a doubt that prison is deserved. With the new film White Boy Rick, opening in theaters this weekend, things are different. Watching a teenager be set up and then go down is not what you normally get. And yet, that’s the story being depicted here. It isn’t always particularly easy to watch, but the heft of the tale is never lost on you. Especially in the final scenes, the cost stays with you. The movie is a biographical drama/crime story, though one more focused on characters. This is the official synopsis on IMDb for the film: “The story of teenager Richard Wershe Jr., who became an undercover informant for the FBI during the 1980s and...
- 9/13/2018
- by Joey Magidson
- Hollywoodnews.com
Following his 2014 BAFTA-nominated drama ’71, Yann Demange returns for his second feature film, alongside scripters Andy Weiss and Logan Miller. White Boy Rick, led by Matthew McConaughey, will arrive this September, and now Sony Pictures just released the first trailer for the crime drama.
Based on a true story, the film takes place in 1980s Detroit and follows Rick Wershe Jr. (played by Richie Merritt in his debut role) and his criminal decent into the world of hustling; all while his father (Matthew McConaughey) tries to keep his family’s financials afloat. The film also stars Jennifer Jason Leigh, Eddie Marsan, Rory Cochrane, Brian Tyree Henry, and Bel Powley.
The trailer capitalizes off the vibrancy that is often associated with the ‘80s: Tat Radcliffe’s distinctive cinematography and the electronic funk music work together in perfect harmony, giving an adequate foundation to exhibit the well-rounded ensemble performances. White Boy Rick seems...
Based on a true story, the film takes place in 1980s Detroit and follows Rick Wershe Jr. (played by Richie Merritt in his debut role) and his criminal decent into the world of hustling; all while his father (Matthew McConaughey) tries to keep his family’s financials afloat. The film also stars Jennifer Jason Leigh, Eddie Marsan, Rory Cochrane, Brian Tyree Henry, and Bel Powley.
The trailer capitalizes off the vibrancy that is often associated with the ‘80s: Tat Radcliffe’s distinctive cinematography and the electronic funk music work together in perfect harmony, giving an adequate foundation to exhibit the well-rounded ensemble performances. White Boy Rick seems...
- 6/5/2018
- by The Film Stage
- The Film Stage
Johnny Harris is excellent as a fighter struggling to overcome alcoholism in Thomas Napper’s debut as director
The familiar boxing movie trajectory doesn’t lessen the forceful punch of this underdog story. Written by and starring Johnny Harris, this is a strikingly accomplished portrait of a booze-sick broken soul hauling himself back up from rock bottom. It’s a feature debut from a director who has clearly made sure he’s at fighting weight: Thomas Napper honed his skills taking charge of second units for Joe Wright.
There’s a level of technical polish here that elevates this lean little story. Sound design bleeds into a satisfyingly textured score by Paul Weller. The exemplary cinematography by Tat Radcliffe favours the kind of intimacy that lets us see the pain seeping through Jimmy McCabe’s (Harris’s) skin along with the vodka sweats. In the ring, the disorienting duck and...
The familiar boxing movie trajectory doesn’t lessen the forceful punch of this underdog story. Written by and starring Johnny Harris, this is a strikingly accomplished portrait of a booze-sick broken soul hauling himself back up from rock bottom. It’s a feature debut from a director who has clearly made sure he’s at fighting weight: Thomas Napper honed his skills taking charge of second units for Joe Wright.
There’s a level of technical polish here that elevates this lean little story. Sound design bleeds into a satisfyingly textured score by Paul Weller. The exemplary cinematography by Tat Radcliffe favours the kind of intimacy that lets us see the pain seeping through Jimmy McCabe’s (Harris’s) skin along with the vodka sweats. In the ring, the disorienting duck and...
- 5/14/2017
- by Wendy Ide
- The Guardian - Film News
After some lackluster boxing moves coming out of the U.S. the last few years, save Creed, it’s time for the U.K. to enter the ring. Before Paddy Considine’s Journeyman later this year, the first trailer has arrived for Jawbone, the new sports drama that features across the pond favorites Ian McShane, Ray Winstone, and Michael Smiley with Johnny Harris, who also penned the script.
Helmed by Thomas Q. Napper in his directorial debut (though he’s done second unit work on pictures like Atonement, Into the Woods, and the upcoming Beauty and the Beast), Jawbone follows Jimmy (Harris), a former youth boxer who returns to his original gym to train once again after hitting rock bottom. What’s unclear is whether Jimmy is back to fight with a purpose, or just because he wants to get punched.
Harris looks to give a strong performance, supported by...
Helmed by Thomas Q. Napper in his directorial debut (though he’s done second unit work on pictures like Atonement, Into the Woods, and the upcoming Beauty and the Beast), Jawbone follows Jimmy (Harris), a former youth boxer who returns to his original gym to train once again after hitting rock bottom. What’s unclear is whether Jimmy is back to fight with a purpose, or just because he wants to get punched.
Harris looks to give a strong performance, supported by...
- 1/30/2017
- by Mike Mazzanti
- The Film Stage
Pride has emerged as the big winner at the Moët British Independent Film Awards.
The gay activist drama took home three gongs at last night's Old Billingsgate ceremony, picking up Best British Independent Film, Best Supporting Actress for Imelda Staunton and Best Supporting Actor for Andrew Scott.
'71's Yann Demange bagged the Best Director prize, Gugu Mbatha-Raw won Best Actress for Belle and Brendan Gleeson took home Best Actor for Calvary.
Elsewhere, special prizes were handed out to Emma Thompson (Richard Harris Award), John Boorman (Special Jury Prize) and Benedict Cumberbatch (Variety Award).
The full list of winners at the Moët British Independent Film Awards is as follows:
Best British Independent Film
'71
Calvary
Mr Turner
Pride - Winner!
The Imitation Game
Best Director
John Michael McDonagh – Calvary
Lenny Abrahamson – Frank
Matthew Warchus – Pride
Mike Leigh – Mr Turner
Yann Demange – '71 - Winner!
The Douglas Hickox Award for Best Debut Director
Daniel Wolfe,...
The gay activist drama took home three gongs at last night's Old Billingsgate ceremony, picking up Best British Independent Film, Best Supporting Actress for Imelda Staunton and Best Supporting Actor for Andrew Scott.
'71's Yann Demange bagged the Best Director prize, Gugu Mbatha-Raw won Best Actress for Belle and Brendan Gleeson took home Best Actor for Calvary.
Elsewhere, special prizes were handed out to Emma Thompson (Richard Harris Award), John Boorman (Special Jury Prize) and Benedict Cumberbatch (Variety Award).
The full list of winners at the Moët British Independent Film Awards is as follows:
Best British Independent Film
'71
Calvary
Mr Turner
Pride - Winner!
The Imitation Game
Best Director
John Michael McDonagh – Calvary
Lenny Abrahamson – Frank
Matthew Warchus – Pride
Mike Leigh – Mr Turner
Yann Demange – '71 - Winner!
The Douglas Hickox Award for Best Debut Director
Daniel Wolfe,...
- 12/8/2014
- Digital Spy
A glittering array of talent turned out this evening for the 17th Moët British Independent Film Awards. The winners were announced at the star-studded ceremony, held at Old Billingsgate, which was hosted by The Inbetweeners star, Simon Bird.
The lucky winners took home the iconic award designed by Fredrikson Stallard and created by Swarovski as well as a personalised, Swarovski crystal encrusted magnum of Moët & Chandon.
Best British Independent Film was won by Pride. Yann Demange won Best Director for ’71, Gugu Mbatha-Raw won Best Actress for Belle and Brendan Gleeson won Best Actor for Calvary. Andrew Scott collected his award for Best Supporting Actor for Pride and Imelda Staunton took home her award for Best Supporting Actress also for her role in Pride.
Pride won the most awards on the night, picking up Best British Independent Film, Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor.
As previously announced, Emma Thompson was...
The lucky winners took home the iconic award designed by Fredrikson Stallard and created by Swarovski as well as a personalised, Swarovski crystal encrusted magnum of Moët & Chandon.
Best British Independent Film was won by Pride. Yann Demange won Best Director for ’71, Gugu Mbatha-Raw won Best Actress for Belle and Brendan Gleeson won Best Actor for Calvary. Andrew Scott collected his award for Best Supporting Actor for Pride and Imelda Staunton took home her award for Best Supporting Actress also for her role in Pride.
Pride won the most awards on the night, picking up Best British Independent Film, Best Supporting Actress and Best Supporting Actor.
As previously announced, Emma Thompson was...
- 12/7/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Yann Demange wins best director; Gugu Mbatha-Raw and Brendan Gleeson take home top acting prizes.
At the 17th annual Moet British Independent Film Awards, Pride took home the most trophies, including Best British Independent Film, Best Supporting Actress (Imelda Staunton) and Best Supporting Actor (Andrew Scott).
Next Goal Wins won best documentary and Boyhood won best international independent film.
Yann Demange won best director for ‘71.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw won best actress for Belle, while Brendan Gleeson won best actor for Calvary.
For the full list of winners, see end of story.
Richard Linklater accepted his award for Best International Film “on behalf of the 450 people who worked on this film over 12 years,” dedicating the prize to British filmmaker [This Sporting Life director] Lindsay Anderson “who was a friend and a bit of a mentor, who I miss.”
Joint Directors of the BIFAs, Johanna von Fischer and Tessa Collinson, who are stepping down from the event after this year, said: “In our...
At the 17th annual Moet British Independent Film Awards, Pride took home the most trophies, including Best British Independent Film, Best Supporting Actress (Imelda Staunton) and Best Supporting Actor (Andrew Scott).
Next Goal Wins won best documentary and Boyhood won best international independent film.
Yann Demange won best director for ‘71.
Gugu Mbatha-Raw won best actress for Belle, while Brendan Gleeson won best actor for Calvary.
For the full list of winners, see end of story.
Richard Linklater accepted his award for Best International Film “on behalf of the 450 people who worked on this film over 12 years,” dedicating the prize to British filmmaker [This Sporting Life director] Lindsay Anderson “who was a friend and a bit of a mentor, who I miss.”
Joint Directors of the BIFAs, Johanna von Fischer and Tessa Collinson, who are stepping down from the event after this year, said: “In our...
- 12/7/2014
- by sarah.cooper@screendaily.com (Sarah Cooper)
- ScreenDaily
Jack O'Connell is breaking out something fierce this year. He's of course starring in Angelina Jolie's "Unbroken" and on the indie scene in "Starred Up," for which he was nominated last year at the British Independent Film Awards. Well, he's back for more of this this time around with "'71," Yann Demange's brilliant Belfast thriller, which scored the lion's share of nominations today with nine. Matthew Warchus' ensemble dramedy "Pride," about gay activists working to help miners during the 1984 UK mineworkers strike, was a few steps behind with seven mentions. Mike Leigh's "Mr. Turner" rounded up five nods, while "Calvary" and "The Imitation Game" picked up four apiece. The international category was mostly populated with American entries: "The Babadook," "Blue Ruin," "Boyhood" and "Fruitvale Station." Though Poland's "Ida" also made a show. Check out the full list of nominees below. The 17th annual British Independent Film...
- 12/3/2014
- by Kristopher Tapley
- Hitfix
The nominations for the 17th annual Moët British Independent Film Awards were announced recently, at St Martins Lane, London by actor Jared Harris .
Joint Directors, The Moët British Independent Film Awards’ Johanna von Fischer & Tessa Collinson said: "This has been a record year for Mbifa with over 250 films submitted giving our dedicated members their toughest challenge to date. Hugely impressed by the quality of films and performances across all categories the shortlist demonstrates how the standard of creativity in British independent filmmaking continues to flourish year on year. The decision of who will walk away with one of the iconic Mbifa trophies* is now in the hands of our distinguished independent jury announced today. We are looking forward to seeing as many of the nominees as possible at the Awards on 7th December, to celebrate their incredible achievements. It will be a very personal celebration for us also, as the last in a wonderful 9 Award Ceremonies as Joint Directors of Bifa.”
The highest number of nominations this year goes to "‘71" with nine nominations including Best British Independent Film; Best Director and Debut Director for Yann Demange; Best Screenplay for Gregory Burke; Best Actor for Jack O’Connell and Best Supporting Actor for Sean Harris. "Pride" picked up seven nominations and "Catch me Daddy,""Frank," and "Mr Turner" picked up five nominations each.
Nominations for Best Actress go to Alicia Vikander for "Testament of Youth;" Cheng Pei Pei for "Lilting;" Gugu Mbatha-Raw for "Belle;" Keira Knightley for "The Imitation Game" and Sameena Jabeen Ahmed for "Catch Me Daddy." Leading men hoping to take home the Best Actor award include Asa Butterfield for "X+Y;" Benedict Cumberbatch for "The Imitation Game"; Brendan Gleeson for "Calvary"; Jack O’Connell for "’71" and Timothy Spall for "Mr Turner."
Best Supporting Actor nominations go to Andrew Scott and Ben Schnetzer, both for "Pride;" Michael Fassbender for "Frank;" Rafe Spall for "X+Y" and Sean Harris for"’71."
Dorothy Atkinson for "Mr Turner;" Imelda Staunton for "Pride;" Maggie Gyllenhaal for "Frank;" Sally Hawkins for "X+Y"and Sienna Guillory for "The Goob" are all nominated for the Best Supporting Actress Award.
Directors who have delivered dynamic debuts this year and are fighting for the Douglas Hickox Award are Daniel Wolfe and Matthew Wolfe for "Catch Me Daddy;" Hong Khaou for "Lilting;" Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard for "20,000 Days on Earth;" Morgan Matthews for "X+Y" and Yann Demange for "’71."
The Raindance Award nominees for 2014 include: "Flim: The Movie;" "Gregor;" "Luna;" "Keeping Rosy"and "The Beat Beneath My Feet." This award honours exceptional achievement for filmmakers working against the odds, often with little or no industry support. Elliot Grove, Founder of Raindance Film Festival and Moët British Independent Film Awards added: "The breadth and quality of the British films selected this year suggests a bumper year for British films. Raindance congratulates all the talented filmmakers whose wonderful films make up this year's Mbifa nominations.”
The Pre-Selection Committee of over 70 members viewed a record breaking 250 plus films this year, out of which they selected the nominations, which were decided by ballot.
The winners of The Moët British Independent Film Awards are decided by an independent jury comprised of leading professionals and talent from the British film industry.
It was also announced that the Oscar® and BAFTA - winning Director Tom Hopper, whose film "The King’s Speech" picked up five awards, including Best British Independent Film at the 2010 Moët British Independent Film Awards, will chair the Jury who will decide the winners of the 2014 awards.
Hooper commented: "I am honoured to preside over the Moët Bifa jury this year. It has been an extremely strong year for filmmaking here in Britain and I am looking forward to helping the very best of this year's independent films, get the recognition they deserve."
The Jury for 2014 includes: Jury Chair – Tom Hooper (Director), Jonathan Romney (Writer, Director), Jon S. Baird (Writer, Director), Luke Treadaway (Actor), Mary Burke (Producer), Sean Ellis (Writer, Director), Shira Macleod (Film Programming Consultant), Stanley Tucci (Actor, Director), Thea Sharrock (Director), Tinge Krishnan (Director) Tracy O’Riordan (Producer) and Zawe Ashton (Actor, Director).
Elsa Corbineau, Marketing Director Moët & Chandon, commented: “The pool of talents recognized by the Moët British Independent Film Awards has continuously inspired us with the richness it represents. With Moët & Chandon being the champagne of choice for celebration at international film festivals and award ceremonies, we are delighted to toast to the success of all nominees, including those for the ‘Best British Independent Film’ award sponsored by Moët & Chandon.”
The winners will be announced at the much anticipated 17th awards ceremony on Sunday 7 December at the impressive Old Billingsgate in London.
The Moët British Independent Film Awards is proud to announce the following nominees for this year’s awards:
Best British Independent Film
Sponsored by Moët & Chandon
"'71"
"Calvary"
"Mr Turner"
"Pride"
"The Imitation Game"
Best Director
Sponsored by AllCity & Intermission
John Michael McDonagh – "Calvary"
Lenny Abrahamson – "Frank"
Matthew Warchus – "Pride"
Mike Leigh – "Mr Turner"
Yann Demange – "'71"
The Douglas Hickox Award [Best Debut Director]
Sponsored by 3 Mills Studios
Daniel Wolfe, Matthew Wolfe – "Catch Me Daddy"
Hong Khaou – "Lilting"
Iain Forsyth, Jane Pollard – "20,000 Days on Earth"
Morgan Matthews – "X+Y"
Yann Demange – "'71"
Best Screenplay
Sponsored by BBC Films
Graham Moore – "The Imitation Game"
Gregory Burke – "'71"
John Michael McDonagh – "Calvary"
Jon Ronson, Peter Straughan – "Frank"
Stephen Beresford – "Pride"
Best Actress
Sponsored by M.A.C Cosmetics
Alicia Vikander – "Testament of Youth"
Cheng Pei Pei – "Lilting"
Gugu Mbatha-Raw – "Belle"
Keira Knightley – "The Imitation Game"
Sameena Jabeen Ahmed – "Catch Me Daddy"
Best Actor
Sponsored by Movado
Asa Butterfield – "X+Y"
Benedict Cumberbatch – "The Imitation Game"
Brendan Gleeson – "Calvary"
Jack O'Connell – "'71"
Timothy Spall – "Mr Turner"
Best Supporting Actress
Dorothy Atkinson – "Mr Turner"
Imelda Staunton – "Pride"
Maggie Gyllenhaal – "Frank"
Sally Hawkins –"X+Y"
Sienna Guillory – "The Goob"
Best Supporting Actor
Sponsored by St Martins Lane
Andrew Scott – "Pride"
Ben Schnetzer – "Pride"
Michael Fassbender – "Frank"
Rafe Spall – "X+Y"
Sean Harris – "‘71"
Most Promising Newcomer
Ben Schnetzer – "Pride"
Cara Delevingne – "The Face of An Angel"
Gugu Mbatha-Raw – "Belle"
Liam Walpole – "The Goob"
Sameena Jabeen Ahmed – "Catch Me Daddy"
Best Achievement In Production
"'71"
"20,000 Days on Earth"
"Catch Me Daddy"
"Lilting"
"The Goob"
Best Technical Achievement
Chris Wyatt - Editing - "'71"
Dick Pope - Cinematography -"Mr Turner"
Robbie Ryan - Cinematography - "Catch Me Daddy"
Stephen Rennicks - Music – "Frank"
Tat Radcliffe - Cinematography - "'71"
Best DocumentarY
"20,000 Days on Earth"
"Next Goal Wins"
"Night Will Fall"
"The Possibilities Are Endless"
"Virunga"
Best British Short
"Crocodile"
"Emotional Fusebox"
"Keeping Up With The Joneses"
"Slap"
"The Kármán Line"
Best International Independent Film
"Blue Ruin"
"Boyhood"
"Fruitvale Station"
"Ida"
"The Badadook"
The Raindance Award
"Flim: The Movie..".
"Gregor"
"Luna"
"Keeping Rosy"
"The Beat Beneath My Feet"
The Richard Harris Award (for outstanding contribution by an actor to British Film)
To Be Announced
The Variety Award
To Be Announced
The Special Jury Prize
Announced at the Moët British Independent Film Awards on Sunday 7th December
Now in its 17th year, the Awards were created by Raindance in 1998 and set out to celebrate merit and achievement in independently funded British filmmaking, to honour new talent, and to promote British films and filmmaking to a wider public.
Previous winners of the prestigious Best British Independent Film Award include "Metro Manila," "Tyrannosaur," "The King's Speech," "Moon," "Control," "Slumdog Millionaire," "The Constant Gardener" and "This is England"
Proud supporters and patrons of The Moët British Independent Film Awards include Mike Figgis, Tom Hollander, Adrian Lester, Ken Loach, Ewan McGregor, Helen Mirren, Samantha Morton, James Nesbitt, Michael Sheen, Trudie Styler, Tilda Swinton, Meera Syal, David Thewlis, Ray Winstone and Michael Winterbottom.
The Moët British Independent Film Awards would like to thank all its supporters, especially: Moët & Chandon, 3 Mills Studios, BBC Films, M.A.C Cosmetics, Movado, Raindance, St Martins Lane, Soho House, Swarovski, Variety, AllCity, Intermission.
Joint Directors, The Moët British Independent Film Awards’ Johanna von Fischer & Tessa Collinson said: "This has been a record year for Mbifa with over 250 films submitted giving our dedicated members their toughest challenge to date. Hugely impressed by the quality of films and performances across all categories the shortlist demonstrates how the standard of creativity in British independent filmmaking continues to flourish year on year. The decision of who will walk away with one of the iconic Mbifa trophies* is now in the hands of our distinguished independent jury announced today. We are looking forward to seeing as many of the nominees as possible at the Awards on 7th December, to celebrate their incredible achievements. It will be a very personal celebration for us also, as the last in a wonderful 9 Award Ceremonies as Joint Directors of Bifa.”
The highest number of nominations this year goes to "‘71" with nine nominations including Best British Independent Film; Best Director and Debut Director for Yann Demange; Best Screenplay for Gregory Burke; Best Actor for Jack O’Connell and Best Supporting Actor for Sean Harris. "Pride" picked up seven nominations and "Catch me Daddy,""Frank," and "Mr Turner" picked up five nominations each.
Nominations for Best Actress go to Alicia Vikander for "Testament of Youth;" Cheng Pei Pei for "Lilting;" Gugu Mbatha-Raw for "Belle;" Keira Knightley for "The Imitation Game" and Sameena Jabeen Ahmed for "Catch Me Daddy." Leading men hoping to take home the Best Actor award include Asa Butterfield for "X+Y;" Benedict Cumberbatch for "The Imitation Game"; Brendan Gleeson for "Calvary"; Jack O’Connell for "’71" and Timothy Spall for "Mr Turner."
Best Supporting Actor nominations go to Andrew Scott and Ben Schnetzer, both for "Pride;" Michael Fassbender for "Frank;" Rafe Spall for "X+Y" and Sean Harris for"’71."
Dorothy Atkinson for "Mr Turner;" Imelda Staunton for "Pride;" Maggie Gyllenhaal for "Frank;" Sally Hawkins for "X+Y"and Sienna Guillory for "The Goob" are all nominated for the Best Supporting Actress Award.
Directors who have delivered dynamic debuts this year and are fighting for the Douglas Hickox Award are Daniel Wolfe and Matthew Wolfe for "Catch Me Daddy;" Hong Khaou for "Lilting;" Iain Forsyth and Jane Pollard for "20,000 Days on Earth;" Morgan Matthews for "X+Y" and Yann Demange for "’71."
The Raindance Award nominees for 2014 include: "Flim: The Movie;" "Gregor;" "Luna;" "Keeping Rosy"and "The Beat Beneath My Feet." This award honours exceptional achievement for filmmakers working against the odds, often with little or no industry support. Elliot Grove, Founder of Raindance Film Festival and Moët British Independent Film Awards added: "The breadth and quality of the British films selected this year suggests a bumper year for British films. Raindance congratulates all the talented filmmakers whose wonderful films make up this year's Mbifa nominations.”
The Pre-Selection Committee of over 70 members viewed a record breaking 250 plus films this year, out of which they selected the nominations, which were decided by ballot.
The winners of The Moët British Independent Film Awards are decided by an independent jury comprised of leading professionals and talent from the British film industry.
It was also announced that the Oscar® and BAFTA - winning Director Tom Hopper, whose film "The King’s Speech" picked up five awards, including Best British Independent Film at the 2010 Moët British Independent Film Awards, will chair the Jury who will decide the winners of the 2014 awards.
Hooper commented: "I am honoured to preside over the Moët Bifa jury this year. It has been an extremely strong year for filmmaking here in Britain and I am looking forward to helping the very best of this year's independent films, get the recognition they deserve."
The Jury for 2014 includes: Jury Chair – Tom Hooper (Director), Jonathan Romney (Writer, Director), Jon S. Baird (Writer, Director), Luke Treadaway (Actor), Mary Burke (Producer), Sean Ellis (Writer, Director), Shira Macleod (Film Programming Consultant), Stanley Tucci (Actor, Director), Thea Sharrock (Director), Tinge Krishnan (Director) Tracy O’Riordan (Producer) and Zawe Ashton (Actor, Director).
Elsa Corbineau, Marketing Director Moët & Chandon, commented: “The pool of talents recognized by the Moët British Independent Film Awards has continuously inspired us with the richness it represents. With Moët & Chandon being the champagne of choice for celebration at international film festivals and award ceremonies, we are delighted to toast to the success of all nominees, including those for the ‘Best British Independent Film’ award sponsored by Moët & Chandon.”
The winners will be announced at the much anticipated 17th awards ceremony on Sunday 7 December at the impressive Old Billingsgate in London.
The Moët British Independent Film Awards is proud to announce the following nominees for this year’s awards:
Best British Independent Film
Sponsored by Moët & Chandon
"'71"
"Calvary"
"Mr Turner"
"Pride"
"The Imitation Game"
Best Director
Sponsored by AllCity & Intermission
John Michael McDonagh – "Calvary"
Lenny Abrahamson – "Frank"
Matthew Warchus – "Pride"
Mike Leigh – "Mr Turner"
Yann Demange – "'71"
The Douglas Hickox Award [Best Debut Director]
Sponsored by 3 Mills Studios
Daniel Wolfe, Matthew Wolfe – "Catch Me Daddy"
Hong Khaou – "Lilting"
Iain Forsyth, Jane Pollard – "20,000 Days on Earth"
Morgan Matthews – "X+Y"
Yann Demange – "'71"
Best Screenplay
Sponsored by BBC Films
Graham Moore – "The Imitation Game"
Gregory Burke – "'71"
John Michael McDonagh – "Calvary"
Jon Ronson, Peter Straughan – "Frank"
Stephen Beresford – "Pride"
Best Actress
Sponsored by M.A.C Cosmetics
Alicia Vikander – "Testament of Youth"
Cheng Pei Pei – "Lilting"
Gugu Mbatha-Raw – "Belle"
Keira Knightley – "The Imitation Game"
Sameena Jabeen Ahmed – "Catch Me Daddy"
Best Actor
Sponsored by Movado
Asa Butterfield – "X+Y"
Benedict Cumberbatch – "The Imitation Game"
Brendan Gleeson – "Calvary"
Jack O'Connell – "'71"
Timothy Spall – "Mr Turner"
Best Supporting Actress
Dorothy Atkinson – "Mr Turner"
Imelda Staunton – "Pride"
Maggie Gyllenhaal – "Frank"
Sally Hawkins –"X+Y"
Sienna Guillory – "The Goob"
Best Supporting Actor
Sponsored by St Martins Lane
Andrew Scott – "Pride"
Ben Schnetzer – "Pride"
Michael Fassbender – "Frank"
Rafe Spall – "X+Y"
Sean Harris – "‘71"
Most Promising Newcomer
Ben Schnetzer – "Pride"
Cara Delevingne – "The Face of An Angel"
Gugu Mbatha-Raw – "Belle"
Liam Walpole – "The Goob"
Sameena Jabeen Ahmed – "Catch Me Daddy"
Best Achievement In Production
"'71"
"20,000 Days on Earth"
"Catch Me Daddy"
"Lilting"
"The Goob"
Best Technical Achievement
Chris Wyatt - Editing - "'71"
Dick Pope - Cinematography -"Mr Turner"
Robbie Ryan - Cinematography - "Catch Me Daddy"
Stephen Rennicks - Music – "Frank"
Tat Radcliffe - Cinematography - "'71"
Best DocumentarY
"20,000 Days on Earth"
"Next Goal Wins"
"Night Will Fall"
"The Possibilities Are Endless"
"Virunga"
Best British Short
"Crocodile"
"Emotional Fusebox"
"Keeping Up With The Joneses"
"Slap"
"The Kármán Line"
Best International Independent Film
"Blue Ruin"
"Boyhood"
"Fruitvale Station"
"Ida"
"The Badadook"
The Raindance Award
"Flim: The Movie..".
"Gregor"
"Luna"
"Keeping Rosy"
"The Beat Beneath My Feet"
The Richard Harris Award (for outstanding contribution by an actor to British Film)
To Be Announced
The Variety Award
To Be Announced
The Special Jury Prize
Announced at the Moët British Independent Film Awards on Sunday 7th December
Now in its 17th year, the Awards were created by Raindance in 1998 and set out to celebrate merit and achievement in independently funded British filmmaking, to honour new talent, and to promote British films and filmmaking to a wider public.
Previous winners of the prestigious Best British Independent Film Award include "Metro Manila," "Tyrannosaur," "The King's Speech," "Moon," "Control," "Slumdog Millionaire," "The Constant Gardener" and "This is England"
Proud supporters and patrons of The Moët British Independent Film Awards include Mike Figgis, Tom Hollander, Adrian Lester, Ken Loach, Ewan McGregor, Helen Mirren, Samantha Morton, James Nesbitt, Michael Sheen, Trudie Styler, Tilda Swinton, Meera Syal, David Thewlis, Ray Winstone and Michael Winterbottom.
The Moët British Independent Film Awards would like to thank all its supporters, especially: Moët & Chandon, 3 Mills Studios, BBC Films, M.A.C Cosmetics, Movado, Raindance, St Martins Lane, Soho House, Swarovski, Variety, AllCity, Intermission.
- 11/10/2014
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
The edge-of-your seat thriller that was all the talk at this year’s Berlin Film Festival (that momentum was carried over into Telluride and Tiff during the fall) leads all noms for the 17th edition of the 2014 British Independent Film Awards. Landing nine nominations in all, Yann Demange’s ’71 might lead the pack, but I’d argue that despite all the fanfare, remains an underdog in most categories. Going up against The Imitation Game (which failed to score Morten Tyldum a Best Director nod but managed to get Best Screenplay and Best Film consideration) and Mike Leigh’s Mr Turner, there might be plenty of gift-giving for several films on December 7th, with Matthew Warchus’ Pride also in the mix with a whopping seven noms (mostly in the acting categories). The much deserving Cannes played Catch Me Daddy and Venice Film Fest included The Goob thankfully didn’t go unnoticed,...
- 11/3/2014
- by Eric Lavallee
- IONCINEMA.com
The British Independent Film Awards announced its nominees this Monday morning and it was good news for films that may not have the muscle to break into the Academy Awards contest. The Irish political thriller “’71” and “Pride,” the story of gay activism and mineworker strikes that fits snuggly the time-honored British sociopolitical dramedy genre, earned the most nominations. In honors that will likely replicate themselves stateside, “Imitation Game” also earned a Best British Independent Film nod, with stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley finding love in the Best Actor and Actress categories, respectively. Other Best British Independent Film nominees include Mike Leigh’s “Mr. Turner” and John Michael McDonagh’s “Calvary.” Picking up multiple nominations were Lenny Abrahamson’s “Frank,” documentarian Morgan Matthews’ narrative debut “X+Y,” and the Nick Cave documentary “20,000 Days on Earth.” There’s little conformity to the British Independent Film Awards. Compared to previous years, the 2014 nominations are downright populist.
- 11/3/2014
- by Matt Patches
- Hitfix
Yann Demange’s anti-war parable ’71 has scored a leading nine nominations for the 17th Moët British Independent Film Awards. The director’s debut feature, which premiered in Berlin last February, is named in the major categories and also scooped a Best Actor mention for Jack O’Connell who’s next up in Angelina Jolie’s Unbroken. Directors’ Fortnight closer and crowd-pleaser Pride, helmed by Matthew Warchus, was next with seven nominations while festival favorites Daniel Wolfe’s Catch Me Daddy, Lenny Abrahamson’s Frank and Mike Leigh’s Mr Turner each scored five nods. Along with ’71, Pride and Mr Turner, the titles competing in the Best British Independent Film race are John Michael McDonagh’s Calvary and Morten Tyldum’s The Imitation Game. Oscar hopeful, The Imitation Game’s Benedict Cumberbatch and Keira Knightley also scored acting noms. (See full list of nominees below.)
Winners are decided by an independent...
Winners are decided by an independent...
- 11/3/2014
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline
Chaitanya Tamhane’s “Court”
Chaitanya Tamhane’s debut film Court swept three awards in International Competition at the 16th Mumbai Film Festival. The film, produced by Vivek Gomber, won the Golden Gateway award for Best Film, Best Director and Jury Special Mention for Ensemble Cast. The International Competition Jury of the festival was headed by British director Peter Webber.
In India Gold competition, Bikas Mishra’s Chauranga took home the Golden Gateway award for Best Film. Avinash Arun’s Killa won the second Best Film and a Jury Special Mention for Best Ensemble Cast. The Jury was headed by Serbian filmmaker Goran Paskaljevic.
In Dimensions Mumbai short film section, the Jury awarded the Best Film to Disha Rindani for Mumbai 70. Unfit directed by Shristi Jain won the second Best Film. Ramachandra Gaonkar’s Selfie got a Jury Special Mention.
Complete list of awards:
International Competition:
Best film – Court, dir: Chaitanya Tamhane...
Chaitanya Tamhane’s debut film Court swept three awards in International Competition at the 16th Mumbai Film Festival. The film, produced by Vivek Gomber, won the Golden Gateway award for Best Film, Best Director and Jury Special Mention for Ensemble Cast. The International Competition Jury of the festival was headed by British director Peter Webber.
In India Gold competition, Bikas Mishra’s Chauranga took home the Golden Gateway award for Best Film. Avinash Arun’s Killa won the second Best Film and a Jury Special Mention for Best Ensemble Cast. The Jury was headed by Serbian filmmaker Goran Paskaljevic.
In Dimensions Mumbai short film section, the Jury awarded the Best Film to Disha Rindani for Mumbai 70. Unfit directed by Shristi Jain won the second Best Film. Ramachandra Gaonkar’s Selfie got a Jury Special Mention.
Complete list of awards:
International Competition:
Best film – Court, dir: Chaitanya Tamhane...
- 10/22/2014
- by NewsDesk
- DearCinema.com
Indian films Court, Chauranga and Killa were the big winners at the close of the Mumbai Film Festival (Mff), which wrapped on Tuesday night.
Chaitanya Tamhane’s Court won best film and best director in Mff’s International Competition for first and second-time filmmakers, along with a Special Jury Mention for the ensemble cast. The film, produced by Vivek Gomber, also recently won best film in the Orizzonti section at the Venice film festival.
The jury for this section, headed by UK director Peter Webber, gave the Jury Grand Prize to Mexican film Gueros, directed by Alonso Ruizpalacios (see full list of winners below).
Chauranga, directed by Bikas Ranjan Mishra, won best film in the India Gold competition. Produced by Onir and Sanjay Suri, the film tells the story of a young ‘dalit’ boy who dares to write a love letter to a girl from a higher caste.
Avinash Arun’s Killa, about a young...
Chaitanya Tamhane’s Court won best film and best director in Mff’s International Competition for first and second-time filmmakers, along with a Special Jury Mention for the ensemble cast. The film, produced by Vivek Gomber, also recently won best film in the Orizzonti section at the Venice film festival.
The jury for this section, headed by UK director Peter Webber, gave the Jury Grand Prize to Mexican film Gueros, directed by Alonso Ruizpalacios (see full list of winners below).
Chauranga, directed by Bikas Ranjan Mishra, won best film in the India Gold competition. Produced by Onir and Sanjay Suri, the film tells the story of a young ‘dalit’ boy who dares to write a love letter to a girl from a higher caste.
Avinash Arun’s Killa, about a young...
- 10/22/2014
- by lizshackleton@gmail.com (Liz Shackleton)
- ScreenDaily
Here’s a flick that builds on the old saying that politics makes strange bedfellows. Toss in harassment and hardship and those bedfellows can get even stranger. Or more unlikely. This being the Fall, we’re back in the more serious “inspired by a true story” film territory. But this true tale is a bit lighter, much like other British non-fiction fables like The Full Monty and Calendar Girls. There’s gentle humor, but also drama and more than a touch of heartache. Many of the laughs emerge from culture clashes, with each of the two main groups alternating as “fish out of water”. And although they may have different definitions of the word, the two are brought together over common feelings of Pride.
It’s 1984 in London as activist Mark Ashton (Ben Schnetzer) gets ready to join the annual Gay Pride Parade. He’s suddenly transfixed by the news...
It’s 1984 in London as activist Mark Ashton (Ben Schnetzer) gets ready to join the annual Gay Pride Parade. He’s suddenly transfixed by the news...
- 10/9/2014
- by Jim Batts
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
“Audiences will have their sense of humanity refreshed.”
Actors Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton and Dominic West, director Matthew Warchus and the filmmakers of Pride discuss the background of this emotional story in the new featurette.
Critics are already cheering the film. “Breakout British hit is a warm, witty triumph,” says Digital Spy.
The Hollywood News writes, “Pride really is a thing of beauty.”
Pride is inspired by an extraordinary true story.
It’s the summer of 1984, Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers is on strike, prompting a London-based group of gay and lesbian activists to raise money to support the strikers’ families. Initially rebuffed by the Union, the group identifies a tiny mining village in Wales and sets off to make their donation in person. As the strike drags on, the two groups discover that standing together makes for the strongest union of all.
Directed...
Actors Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton and Dominic West, director Matthew Warchus and the filmmakers of Pride discuss the background of this emotional story in the new featurette.
Critics are already cheering the film. “Breakout British hit is a warm, witty triumph,” says Digital Spy.
The Hollywood News writes, “Pride really is a thing of beauty.”
Pride is inspired by an extraordinary true story.
It’s the summer of 1984, Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers is on strike, prompting a London-based group of gay and lesbian activists to raise money to support the strikers’ families. Initially rebuffed by the Union, the group identifies a tiny mining village in Wales and sets off to make their donation in person. As the strike drags on, the two groups discover that standing together makes for the strongest union of all.
Directed...
- 9/16/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Starring Bill Nighy, Imelda Staunton, Dominic West, and Paddy Considine, the first trailer for Pride is here.
In their Cannes 2014 review, HeyUGuys‘ Jo-Ann Titmarsh wrote: “A feel-good movie about the 1984 miners’ strike, Thatcherism and the scourge of Aids is a tough nut, but with Pride Matthew Warchus has cracked it. Garnering an ovation on its premiere here in Cannes, Pride can certainly feel proud of itself.”
The screenplay is from Stephen Beresford, whose debut stage play, The Last of the Haussmans (starring Julie Walters), was a critical and commercial hit at the National Theatre in 2012.
It’s the summer of 1984 – Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers (Num) is on strike. At the Gay Pride March in London, a group of gay and lesbian activists decides to raise money to support the families of the striking miners. But there is a problem. The Union seems embarrassed to receive their support.
In their Cannes 2014 review, HeyUGuys‘ Jo-Ann Titmarsh wrote: “A feel-good movie about the 1984 miners’ strike, Thatcherism and the scourge of Aids is a tough nut, but with Pride Matthew Warchus has cracked it. Garnering an ovation on its premiere here in Cannes, Pride can certainly feel proud of itself.”
The screenplay is from Stephen Beresford, whose debut stage play, The Last of the Haussmans (starring Julie Walters), was a critical and commercial hit at the National Theatre in 2012.
It’s the summer of 1984 – Margaret Thatcher is in power and the National Union of Mineworkers (Num) is on strike. At the Gay Pride March in London, a group of gay and lesbian activists decides to raise money to support the families of the striking miners. But there is a problem. The Union seems embarrassed to receive their support.
- 6/28/2014
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
As the new film of Sound and Fury's Kursk reveals, capturing live theatre on video is tough – even more so when it's immersive, interactive or promenade
Theatre on film? Better than nothing, is my take. If you can't see a show in person, watching a recording of a production is a pretty decent second-best. It will, inevitably, lack all the trappings of the live event – both temporal and spatial – but at least you get a sense of the performance as it might have been. In fact, thanks to multiple cameras and zoom lenses, filming technique can allow an audience a better sense of what happens onstage, even if it can't capture the full experience.
But what about those forms of theatre where the liveness isn't simply brilliant to have, but entirely integral? Sure, a camera and microphone can stand in for our eyes and ears – but how do you...
Theatre on film? Better than nothing, is my take. If you can't see a show in person, watching a recording of a production is a pretty decent second-best. It will, inevitably, lack all the trappings of the live event – both temporal and spatial – but at least you get a sense of the performance as it might have been. In fact, thanks to multiple cameras and zoom lenses, filming technique can allow an audience a better sense of what happens onstage, even if it can't capture the full experience.
But what about those forms of theatre where the liveness isn't simply brilliant to have, but entirely integral? Sure, a camera and microphone can stand in for our eyes and ears – but how do you...
- 8/1/2012
- by Matt Trueman
- The Guardian - Film News
The Double Hour
Directed by Giuseppe Capotondi
Italy, 2009
Equal parts Under the Sand, Tell No One and Femme Fatale, The Double Hour is a genre-hybrid that starts off with a roar, wriggles its way through a slippery second act, and steps in a few potholes on its way to satisfying if muted conclusion.
Guido (Filippo Timi) is a taciturn security guard and a veteran of Italy’s speed-dating scene. Sonia (Kseniya Rappoport) is a taciturn maid making her first foray into the blind dating pool. He’s an ex-cop; she has an unspoken criminal background. True love seems to be peeking around the corner until a robbery leaves Guido dead and Sonia with the fragment of a bullet in her head. Soon Sonia starts seeing Guido everywhere – on security cameras at work, in her apartment, on the street.
To make matters worse a creepy hotel resident, Bruno (Fausto Russo Alesi), takes a liking to her,...
Directed by Giuseppe Capotondi
Italy, 2009
Equal parts Under the Sand, Tell No One and Femme Fatale, The Double Hour is a genre-hybrid that starts off with a roar, wriggles its way through a slippery second act, and steps in a few potholes on its way to satisfying if muted conclusion.
Guido (Filippo Timi) is a taciturn security guard and a veteran of Italy’s speed-dating scene. Sonia (Kseniya Rappoport) is a taciturn maid making her first foray into the blind dating pool. He’s an ex-cop; she has an unspoken criminal background. True love seems to be peeking around the corner until a robbery leaves Guido dead and Sonia with the fragment of a bullet in her head. Soon Sonia starts seeing Guido everywhere – on security cameras at work, in her apartment, on the street.
To make matters worse a creepy hotel resident, Bruno (Fausto Russo Alesi), takes a liking to her,...
- 6/1/2011
- by Neal Dhand
- SoundOnSight
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