Author(s): Adam
Location: TX
"Cartel"
Directed by PHILIP NOYCE
Written by JOSHUA MARSTON
Produced by MACE NEUFELD
Briefly based on the true life story of Pablo Escobar
Featuring new original songs by JUANES & MANU CHAO
Main Cast
MICHAEL PENA as Juan Rosolindo
ANTONIO BANDERAS as Marco Ayanda
JOHN LEGUIZAMO as Francisco "Fran" Rosolindo
MIA MAESTRO as Vivian Rosolindo
RUBEN BLADES as Ricardo Rosolindo
Also featuring in side roles... JOHN ORTIZ, JORDI MOLLA, ROSIE PEREZ, CARLOS GALLARDO, FREDDY RODRIGUEZ
Tagline: "No empire lasts forever"
Synopsis: Medellin, Colombia. The 80s.Juan Rosolindo is one of the world's most wanted drug dealers by Colombian authorities. His empire of drug trafficking in Colombia has built him a fortune so big, he is considered to be one of the richest men in the world. He leads a very trusted group of traffickers which include his brother Francisco, acting as his right hand man. He is happily married to his wife Vivian, has two children, and holds a close relationship with his father Ricardo. Much of his fortunes have been given to many of the poor citizens of Medellin. The police and DEA are out to catch him, while many of the common folk view him as a monster while at the same time some embrace his actions of giving amongst the growing poverty in Colombia.Colombian police chief Marco Ayanda has dedicated much of his career to catching Rosolindo and putting him away. A key event in the case has occurred that could finally allow the authorities to put Rosolindo away for good. Francisco has been picked up and arrested during a transport. Upon questioning, he is given a proposition, help the DEA catch Juan and be paid a handsome reward along with his freedom, or do time for drug trafficking. Faced with a difficult dilemma, Francisco chooses to help the DEA in secrecy and bring down his brother's empire. But he soon realizes the pain it is causing when he sees the trust his brother holds in him, the dangers of being discovered and the confusion of love and hate between Juan's criminal lifestyle and his viewing as a Colombian Robin Hood. The chase leads Juan to become suspicious of his surroundings and begin to question each man around him, while never being able to bring himself to believe that Francisco would sell him to the authorities. The emotional effects brought on by each side in which the brother's stand become more and more apparent as the case develops. As Juan gets closer and closer to the truth, details begin to unravel for the authorities which include his support of the guerillas and their criminal acts of murder as well as the discovery that Ricardo has been helping his son by hiding evidence thus making him an accomplice to his crimes. Trust is questioned, brotherhoods are broken, and Rosolindo's empire eventually falls.
What the Press would say:
"In the thrilling tradition of Patriot Games and Clear & Present Danger, director Philip Noyce creates a scenario of thrills using superb direction and camera skills. No scene is dull and each event is fantastically crafted to create a cinematic gem.""Pena's performance as Rosolindo is flawless. He becomes the cartel punch for punch, showing no signs of acting, but of natural performing abilities. A giant step in the young actor's career. Maestro is fantastic as his wife, but the surprising supporting show stealer is Ruben Blades. In his few but commanding scenes, he proves himself to be more than just a notable character actor, but steps into the light as a dominating performer. Its amazing how powerful the chemistry is between he and Pena when the two are on screen together. You know Pena is the star and a fantastic performance is given by him, but Blades is the deserving champion between them. Come time for the awards, those two men will be major contenders.""Joshua Marston flourishes with another fantastic script. Maria Full of Grace realistically portrayed the transport of drugs through the scenario of mules, this shows us the fragile empire of drug trafficking. He has a touch for true life. His capture of setting, time and character is phenomenal. No prisoners are taken. He gives it to you how it is."
FYC
BEST PICTURE (Drama)
BEST DIRECTOR- Philip Noyce
BEST ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY- Joshua Marston
BEST ACTOR- Michael Pena
BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR- Ruben Blades
BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS- Mia Maestro
BEST FILM EDITING
BEST ORIGINAL SONG- "La Cancion del Emperador" performed by Jaunes & Manu Chao
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
Conceiving the Truth
Author(s): Bryce M.
Location: LA
"Conceiving the Truth"
Directed by: Spike Lee
Written by: Spike Lee
Produced by: Spike Lee and Monty Ross Cinematography by: Ernest R. Dickerson
Film Editing by: Samuel D. Pollard
Main Cast
Jurnee Smollett as Janet Morris
Vivica A. Fox as Sharon Morris
Crispin Glover as Joe Crepson John Carroll Lynch as Mike Lou
Matt Dillon as Ferris Tomster
Samuel L. Jackson as James Cattle
Tagline: "When trying to find her father she found something else"
Synopsis: Janet Morris is known around town as the A student with a promising future. She has everything except the one thing she really wants. Janet wants to know who her father was. She lives at home with her loud mouthed step father, James Cattle, and her cheery-but-depressing mother, Sharon Morris, and for years Janet has begged her mom to tell her about her father. Finally, on a hot and sunny day, she gets her wish. Sharon reveals to Janet, that 17 years ago she was raped by an old co-worker. The event was so terrifying she did not go to the police, and the event still haunts her dreams. She soon found out she was pregnant, and after some heavy thinking she decided to keep the baby. At the time of the rape Sharon wasn't aware of which one of her old co-workers raped her, but after 17 years she finally figured out who it was. However, she won't tell Janet, because she fears it will badly effect Janet's life.However, if Janet can't find out through her mom, she'll find out by herself. Janet makes it her goal to find the man who raped her mother all those years ago, who is also her father. What Janet doesn't know is what she will do once she finds him. James urges Janet to enforce vigilante justice to the mystery man. However, Janet notices that her mother actually shows a bit of love for the mystery man whenever the topic comes up in a conversation. Even though Janet does not know what she will do once she finds her father, she does have three likely suspects, that can all be her father....Joe Crepson use to be Sharon's close partner. He is known to be very silent at times, and awkward at other times. Joe has been known to put women on a somewhat religious pedestal, and has a record of therapy for sexual frustration.Mike Lou use to be Sharon's boss. He had a reputation of trying to seduce his female employees, and ultimately was fired for sexual harassment. He is known for being rude, loud, and since being fired he has been living at home; running a small independent pornography website.Ferris Tomster use to date Sharon when they both worked together. However, Sharon dumped him when she found out he was involved with drug trafficking. Eventually, word of Ferris' drug involvement led to him being fired. The short tempered Ferris blamed his job loss on Sharon, and was even visited by the police after making death threats to Sharon. As the years went by, Ferris was arrested for attempted child molestation, but recently has been let out of prison on parole. As Janet investigates the suspects, and comes close to finding the truth, the question of what she will do once she finds her father is still enslaving her mind. Will she find her father and embrace him? Or bring him to justice?
What the Press would say:
Spike Lee returns back to his personal film roots with his latest film "Conceiving the Truth". The film follows a young women as she tries to find her biological father, who raped her mother at conception. The film may sound melodramtic or something that would be a very intense drama, but Spike Lee tones down the tense atmosphere for a more optimistic one. Just like with "Do The Right Thing" or "Jungle Fever" the drama is very hip, having a comedic sense in some scenes to go along with the drama. However, just because the atmosphere is comical and hip doesn't mean the dramatic plot points are frail or the effective story telling is missing. Scenes are just as powerful as they have always been in a Spike Lee film, and Spike Lee does provide a powerful theme to an already compelling story.Spike Lee has had some powerful performances in his past movies, but, without a second thought, "Conceiving the Truth" has the best acting out of any previous Spike Lee film. Crispin Glover, Matt Dillon, and Samuel L. Jackson all provide great performances. Jurnee Smollett shines as the lead in a role that will surely earn her more exposure, and bring her career into new heights. John Carroll Lynch will surely end up as a fan favorite in the same sense as Mark Wahlberg in "The Departed". His character is loud, rude, and hilarious, but he can also can pull off the dramatic scenes like a pro. However, the show stealer here, which I think all critics will agree with, is Vivica A. Fox with a performance that is not only leagues better than her past roles, but also one of the most compelling supporting performances of the year. Vivica plays the mother of Jurnee's character, who was raped years ago, and became pregnant with her daughter. What makes the character so interesting is the fact that she almost holds the person who raped her in an envious position. In addition to that trait, Vivica also has some great scenes in the various flashback scenes, which consist of a terrifying rape scene.Although I think "Inside Man" was a brilliant movie, "Conceiving the Truth" is the true return of Spike Lee. His style that he has used in past movies such as "Do The right Thing" has returned, along with some of the best ensemble acting of the year, and an incredible show stealing performance from Vivica A. Fox. "Conceiving the Truth" will be known as one of the best films of the year, and audiences will be highly entertained.
Best Picture
Best Director- Spike Lee
Best Actress- Jurnee Smollett
Best Supporting Actress- Vivica A. Fox
Best Supporting Actor- John Carroll Lynch
Best Supporting Actor- Samuel L. Jackson
Best Original Screenplay- Spike Lee
Best Film Editing
Best Sound Editing
Best Cinematography
Location: LA
"Conceiving the Truth"
Directed by: Spike Lee
Written by: Spike Lee
Produced by: Spike Lee and Monty Ross Cinematography by: Ernest R. Dickerson
Film Editing by: Samuel D. Pollard
Main Cast
Jurnee Smollett as Janet Morris
Vivica A. Fox as Sharon Morris
Crispin Glover as Joe Crepson John Carroll Lynch as Mike Lou
Matt Dillon as Ferris Tomster
Samuel L. Jackson as James Cattle
Tagline: "When trying to find her father she found something else"
Synopsis: Janet Morris is known around town as the A student with a promising future. She has everything except the one thing she really wants. Janet wants to know who her father was. She lives at home with her loud mouthed step father, James Cattle, and her cheery-but-depressing mother, Sharon Morris, and for years Janet has begged her mom to tell her about her father. Finally, on a hot and sunny day, she gets her wish. Sharon reveals to Janet, that 17 years ago she was raped by an old co-worker. The event was so terrifying she did not go to the police, and the event still haunts her dreams. She soon found out she was pregnant, and after some heavy thinking she decided to keep the baby. At the time of the rape Sharon wasn't aware of which one of her old co-workers raped her, but after 17 years she finally figured out who it was. However, she won't tell Janet, because she fears it will badly effect Janet's life.However, if Janet can't find out through her mom, she'll find out by herself. Janet makes it her goal to find the man who raped her mother all those years ago, who is also her father. What Janet doesn't know is what she will do once she finds him. James urges Janet to enforce vigilante justice to the mystery man. However, Janet notices that her mother actually shows a bit of love for the mystery man whenever the topic comes up in a conversation. Even though Janet does not know what she will do once she finds her father, she does have three likely suspects, that can all be her father....Joe Crepson use to be Sharon's close partner. He is known to be very silent at times, and awkward at other times. Joe has been known to put women on a somewhat religious pedestal, and has a record of therapy for sexual frustration.Mike Lou use to be Sharon's boss. He had a reputation of trying to seduce his female employees, and ultimately was fired for sexual harassment. He is known for being rude, loud, and since being fired he has been living at home; running a small independent pornography website.Ferris Tomster use to date Sharon when they both worked together. However, Sharon dumped him when she found out he was involved with drug trafficking. Eventually, word of Ferris' drug involvement led to him being fired. The short tempered Ferris blamed his job loss on Sharon, and was even visited by the police after making death threats to Sharon. As the years went by, Ferris was arrested for attempted child molestation, but recently has been let out of prison on parole. As Janet investigates the suspects, and comes close to finding the truth, the question of what she will do once she finds her father is still enslaving her mind. Will she find her father and embrace him? Or bring him to justice?
What the Press would say:
Spike Lee returns back to his personal film roots with his latest film "Conceiving the Truth". The film follows a young women as she tries to find her biological father, who raped her mother at conception. The film may sound melodramtic or something that would be a very intense drama, but Spike Lee tones down the tense atmosphere for a more optimistic one. Just like with "Do The Right Thing" or "Jungle Fever" the drama is very hip, having a comedic sense in some scenes to go along with the drama. However, just because the atmosphere is comical and hip doesn't mean the dramatic plot points are frail or the effective story telling is missing. Scenes are just as powerful as they have always been in a Spike Lee film, and Spike Lee does provide a powerful theme to an already compelling story.Spike Lee has had some powerful performances in his past movies, but, without a second thought, "Conceiving the Truth" has the best acting out of any previous Spike Lee film. Crispin Glover, Matt Dillon, and Samuel L. Jackson all provide great performances. Jurnee Smollett shines as the lead in a role that will surely earn her more exposure, and bring her career into new heights. John Carroll Lynch will surely end up as a fan favorite in the same sense as Mark Wahlberg in "The Departed". His character is loud, rude, and hilarious, but he can also can pull off the dramatic scenes like a pro. However, the show stealer here, which I think all critics will agree with, is Vivica A. Fox with a performance that is not only leagues better than her past roles, but also one of the most compelling supporting performances of the year. Vivica plays the mother of Jurnee's character, who was raped years ago, and became pregnant with her daughter. What makes the character so interesting is the fact that she almost holds the person who raped her in an envious position. In addition to that trait, Vivica also has some great scenes in the various flashback scenes, which consist of a terrifying rape scene.Although I think "Inside Man" was a brilliant movie, "Conceiving the Truth" is the true return of Spike Lee. His style that he has used in past movies such as "Do The right Thing" has returned, along with some of the best ensemble acting of the year, and an incredible show stealing performance from Vivica A. Fox. "Conceiving the Truth" will be known as one of the best films of the year, and audiences will be highly entertained.
Best Picture
Best Director- Spike Lee
Best Actress- Jurnee Smollett
Best Supporting Actress- Vivica A. Fox
Best Supporting Actor- John Carroll Lynch
Best Supporting Actor- Samuel L. Jackson
Best Original Screenplay- Spike Lee
Best Film Editing
Best Sound Editing
Best Cinematography
Dancing With Auntie
Author(s): T.D.
Location: TX
"Dancing with Auntie"
Directed by Jason Reitman
Produced by Lianne Halfon, Mason Novick, & Russell Smith
Written by David Magee
Distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures
Art Direction by Dianne Wager
Set Decoration by Jay Hart
Cinematography by John Lindley
Editing by Dana E. Glauberman
Costumes by Rita Ryack
Music by Mychael Danna
Main Cast
Ryan Gosling as Barry Metcalfe
Ellen Page as Susan Pearson
Hugh Laurie as Norman Metcalfe
Elizabeth Perkins as Beryl Metcalfe
Sharon Stone as Dot Metcalfe
Brittany Snow as Marlene Tonks
Jesse Eisenberg as Jed Tonks
Tagline: "On Christmas day, a dark secret will be a gift that the Metcalfes will never forget"
Synopsis: The Boxing Day ‘do’ at Barry’s parents’ house was always the same, year after year, until 1967. Up to then, the get-together had consisted of a visit by Auntie Dot, cousin Marlene, and Jed, Marlene’s boorish husband; present giving, mountains of food, too much drink, and dancing. Every year, to Barry’s excruciating embarrassment, Dot would say to Barry, “Come on Barry, dance with your auntie!”, and Marlene, Dot’s daughter; also called ‘auntie’ by Barry, would ‘inadvertently’ find some way of making him cringe.
When Christmas 1967 arrives though, Barry, now in his late teens, and having outgrown the childish pleasures of Christmas, invites his new girlfriend, Susan, along to meet Beryl, his mom, Norman his dad, and his other close relatives. Her inclusion in the festivities however, has a catalytic effect on the entire family’s relationships; changes that somewhat alter the Christmas-time party atmosphere. Susan is a very modern, uninhibited ‘sixties’ girl, and quickly comes into conflict with Beryl, a strictly conventional woman, who desperately tries to reinforce her rose-tinted view of family life.
With tensions raised, Marlene’s pregnancy is clumsily announced and despite more ham-fisted attempts at humor from Jed, Norman is forced to keep the peace between the women as deeply hidden anxieties rise to the surface like molten lava, scorching each and all in its path. The source of the turmoil is uncovered when Beryl’s fragile emotions explode and she reveals the family’s dark secret - that Norman made a girl pregnant while he was in the army. The baby’s mother died at birth, and so the child (Marlene) was brought up as her own by Norman ’s sister, Dot. Marlene and Jed are unaware of this, as is Barry, who now has a new step-sister. With everyone coming to terms with this dramatic news, it all ends with just Barry and Marlene in the living room, as she touchingly says to him, “Come on Barry, dance with your … auntie?”.
What the Press would say:
From director Jason Reitman (Juno) comes a hilarious yet smart comedy that will make you wish to cherish your family life. “Dancing with Auntie” is a story about a teen, his modernistic girlfriend, and a family with a dark secret, and David Magee cleverly brings this out through his wonderful script. The black comedy involves several funny situations, as well as heartwrenching scenes that will undoubtedly be considered some of the best you’ve seen in years. With wonderful performances by the female cast members, you could say that his film is definitely a woman’s show. Even in this clever ensemble, you can tell that Ellen Page and Brittany Snow are the leads. They both deliver hilarious performances, with Page’s modern values and Snow’s heartbreaking scenes, you will instantly fall in love with them. The supporting ladies also give amazing performances as well. Elizabeth Perkins really lets her inner bitch out in this film as Barry’s mother, and she almost stole the entire movie. Sharon Stone hasn’t been in any good films lately, but this is by far her best work yet! Her role as Dot is glamorous and funny, and this role could definitely put her back at the Oscars. But the women weren’t the only stars of the film, but so were Ryan Gosling and Jesse Eisenberg, who both equally deliver great performances. Believe it or not, “Dancing with Auntie” is a well-written piece of work that will go down as one of the best comedies of all time.
For Your Consideration
Best Picture
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Ryan Gosling
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Ellen Page
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Brittany Snow
Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Elizabeth Perkins
Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Sharon Stone
Best Adapted Screenplay – David Magee
Best Art Direction-Set Decoration
Best Costume Design
Location: TX
"Dancing with Auntie"
Directed by Jason Reitman
Produced by Lianne Halfon, Mason Novick, & Russell Smith
Written by David Magee
Distributed by Fox Searchlight Pictures
Art Direction by Dianne Wager
Set Decoration by Jay Hart
Cinematography by John Lindley
Editing by Dana E. Glauberman
Costumes by Rita Ryack
Music by Mychael Danna
Main Cast
Ryan Gosling as Barry Metcalfe
Ellen Page as Susan Pearson
Hugh Laurie as Norman Metcalfe
Elizabeth Perkins as Beryl Metcalfe
Sharon Stone as Dot Metcalfe
Brittany Snow as Marlene Tonks
Jesse Eisenberg as Jed Tonks
Tagline: "On Christmas day, a dark secret will be a gift that the Metcalfes will never forget"
Synopsis: The Boxing Day ‘do’ at Barry’s parents’ house was always the same, year after year, until 1967. Up to then, the get-together had consisted of a visit by Auntie Dot, cousin Marlene, and Jed, Marlene’s boorish husband; present giving, mountains of food, too much drink, and dancing. Every year, to Barry’s excruciating embarrassment, Dot would say to Barry, “Come on Barry, dance with your auntie!”, and Marlene, Dot’s daughter; also called ‘auntie’ by Barry, would ‘inadvertently’ find some way of making him cringe.
When Christmas 1967 arrives though, Barry, now in his late teens, and having outgrown the childish pleasures of Christmas, invites his new girlfriend, Susan, along to meet Beryl, his mom, Norman his dad, and his other close relatives. Her inclusion in the festivities however, has a catalytic effect on the entire family’s relationships; changes that somewhat alter the Christmas-time party atmosphere. Susan is a very modern, uninhibited ‘sixties’ girl, and quickly comes into conflict with Beryl, a strictly conventional woman, who desperately tries to reinforce her rose-tinted view of family life.
With tensions raised, Marlene’s pregnancy is clumsily announced and despite more ham-fisted attempts at humor from Jed, Norman is forced to keep the peace between the women as deeply hidden anxieties rise to the surface like molten lava, scorching each and all in its path. The source of the turmoil is uncovered when Beryl’s fragile emotions explode and she reveals the family’s dark secret - that Norman made a girl pregnant while he was in the army. The baby’s mother died at birth, and so the child (Marlene) was brought up as her own by Norman ’s sister, Dot. Marlene and Jed are unaware of this, as is Barry, who now has a new step-sister. With everyone coming to terms with this dramatic news, it all ends with just Barry and Marlene in the living room, as she touchingly says to him, “Come on Barry, dance with your … auntie?”.
What the Press would say:
From director Jason Reitman (Juno) comes a hilarious yet smart comedy that will make you wish to cherish your family life. “Dancing with Auntie” is a story about a teen, his modernistic girlfriend, and a family with a dark secret, and David Magee cleverly brings this out through his wonderful script. The black comedy involves several funny situations, as well as heartwrenching scenes that will undoubtedly be considered some of the best you’ve seen in years. With wonderful performances by the female cast members, you could say that his film is definitely a woman’s show. Even in this clever ensemble, you can tell that Ellen Page and Brittany Snow are the leads. They both deliver hilarious performances, with Page’s modern values and Snow’s heartbreaking scenes, you will instantly fall in love with them. The supporting ladies also give amazing performances as well. Elizabeth Perkins really lets her inner bitch out in this film as Barry’s mother, and she almost stole the entire movie. Sharon Stone hasn’t been in any good films lately, but this is by far her best work yet! Her role as Dot is glamorous and funny, and this role could definitely put her back at the Oscars. But the women weren’t the only stars of the film, but so were Ryan Gosling and Jesse Eisenberg, who both equally deliver great performances. Believe it or not, “Dancing with Auntie” is a well-written piece of work that will go down as one of the best comedies of all time.
For Your Consideration
Best Picture
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Ryan Gosling
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Ellen Page
Best Actress in a Leading Role – Brittany Snow
Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Elizabeth Perkins
Best Actress in a Supporting Role – Sharon Stone
Best Adapted Screenplay – David Magee
Best Art Direction-Set Decoration
Best Costume Design
The Dark Tower III: The Waste Lands
Author(s): James Somerton
Location: Canada
"The Dark Tower III: The Waste Lands"
Directed By David Lynch
Written by David Lynch & Stephen King
Based on his novel.
Main Cast
Viggo Mortenson as Roland; The Last Gunslinger
Tobin Bell as Randall Flagg; The Man in Black
Collin Farrel as Eddie Dean
Tracie Thoms as Susanna Mia
Benicio Del Toro as Blaine
Tagline: "Never Forget the Future"
Synopsis: A rumbling locomotive tears through the silence of the desert like a bullet through flesh. Roland, Eddie, and Susanna continue to make their way through the vast waste lands of Mid-World. Susanna's wheel chair has been destroyed and so Eddie must now hold her on his shoulders in order for her to get around. Roland pays little attention to the two of them as they near the mountain town of Calla. There is something there he must learn.When they reach the town, they find it completely abandoned. There is not even a single trace of life. The only proof that people ever lived here is a diary found in a small house on the eastern outskirts of the town. In this diary, they learn of what happened to the people. The wolves came and they devoured each and every new born baby until the people withered and died without anyone to take their place. he last vestige of hope destroyed by the ravenous appetites of beasts.The smoke billows from atop of the head of the locomotive as it grows closer and closer.Roland continues on his journey with Eddie and Susanna in toe. Again, he barely speaks to them. About fifty miles outside the city they spy a screaming infant; naked and worn by the desert winds. Maternal instincts overcoming her, Susanna hops down off of Eddie's shoulder and hurls herself over to the child by way of her powerful arms. This child is burnt black with blood dried to every inch of its body. Yet it still lives. Here they are attacked by "the wolves". Men dressed in red armor with wolf-like helmets. Roland fires six bullets into the eyes of his attackers while Eddie huddles over Susanna. The "wolves" flee but not before putting the infant out of its misery. The tracks cringe underneath the death-faced train as it thunders past the mountains and into the town of Calla.Roland, Eddie, and Susanna run through the desert after the fleeing "wolves". Three words spoken by their leader have sent Roland into a mist of insanity that frightens Eddie and Susanna. "The Dark Tower" he said before running off in the other direction. When Roland, Eddie, and Susanna reach their hide away, there shall be a great battle. Many lives will be lost but the mystery of where Roland's Dark Tower is located, with finally be solved. The train screeches to a stop just outside of Calla.
What the Press would say:
"The Waste Lands" is the darkest film in "The Dark Tower" series by far. With some of the most disturbing visuals, and darkest character moments, I was left in awe by how the series has progressed since "The Gunslinger". This is such a different film from both of it's predecessors that one can almost walk into this movie without knowing anything of the two before it. The cast is once again amazing, with only one new addition to the cast this time around. Benicio Del Toro joins the cast as Blain, leader of "The Wolves". His face is never seen but his dark voice makes it way through the metal mask and haunts your thoughts as he speaks. His character may be the most important one in Roland's story, next to the man in black. In the end, it is Blain that reveals to Roland where it is that he must go, and just how to go about getting there. Viggo Mortenson once again gives the most powerful performance in the film, as Roland dissolves into a sort of madness half way through the movie. A madness that isn't resolved until very near the end of the film. The end of the film is one of the most hard hitting and shocking ending I have ever seen. After seeing Eddie and Susanna develop a sort of quasi romance throughout the first half of the film, we must witness their untimely end. Eddie and Susanna are both killed in such horrible ways that Most people in the theatre had to turn away. It is only after the horrendous deaths of his two companions that Roland finds out the true location of The Dark Tower; a mythical structure that The Man in Black had spoken of before firing at Roland on the beach. When he returns to Calla with Eddie and Susanna's dead bodies he is faced with something shocking; a giant locomotive breathing smoke and beckoning him to come aboard. When he does, we watch the train thunder off into the distance as the credits role. David Lynch once again gives us a look into the disturbing world of The Dark Tower and, once again, leaves us hanging. One more film and we will get to see how Roland's journey ends.
Possible Nominations:
Best Picture
Best Actor - Viggo Mortenson
Best Supporting Actress - Tracie Thoms
All technical Categories
Location: Canada
"The Dark Tower III: The Waste Lands"
Directed By David Lynch
Written by David Lynch & Stephen King
Based on his novel.
Main Cast
Viggo Mortenson as Roland; The Last Gunslinger
Tobin Bell as Randall Flagg; The Man in Black
Collin Farrel as Eddie Dean
Tracie Thoms as Susanna Mia
Benicio Del Toro as Blaine
Tagline: "Never Forget the Future"
Synopsis: A rumbling locomotive tears through the silence of the desert like a bullet through flesh. Roland, Eddie, and Susanna continue to make their way through the vast waste lands of Mid-World. Susanna's wheel chair has been destroyed and so Eddie must now hold her on his shoulders in order for her to get around. Roland pays little attention to the two of them as they near the mountain town of Calla. There is something there he must learn.When they reach the town, they find it completely abandoned. There is not even a single trace of life. The only proof that people ever lived here is a diary found in a small house on the eastern outskirts of the town. In this diary, they learn of what happened to the people. The wolves came and they devoured each and every new born baby until the people withered and died without anyone to take their place. he last vestige of hope destroyed by the ravenous appetites of beasts.The smoke billows from atop of the head of the locomotive as it grows closer and closer.Roland continues on his journey with Eddie and Susanna in toe. Again, he barely speaks to them. About fifty miles outside the city they spy a screaming infant; naked and worn by the desert winds. Maternal instincts overcoming her, Susanna hops down off of Eddie's shoulder and hurls herself over to the child by way of her powerful arms. This child is burnt black with blood dried to every inch of its body. Yet it still lives. Here they are attacked by "the wolves". Men dressed in red armor with wolf-like helmets. Roland fires six bullets into the eyes of his attackers while Eddie huddles over Susanna. The "wolves" flee but not before putting the infant out of its misery. The tracks cringe underneath the death-faced train as it thunders past the mountains and into the town of Calla.Roland, Eddie, and Susanna run through the desert after the fleeing "wolves". Three words spoken by their leader have sent Roland into a mist of insanity that frightens Eddie and Susanna. "The Dark Tower" he said before running off in the other direction. When Roland, Eddie, and Susanna reach their hide away, there shall be a great battle. Many lives will be lost but the mystery of where Roland's Dark Tower is located, with finally be solved. The train screeches to a stop just outside of Calla.
What the Press would say:
"The Waste Lands" is the darkest film in "The Dark Tower" series by far. With some of the most disturbing visuals, and darkest character moments, I was left in awe by how the series has progressed since "The Gunslinger". This is such a different film from both of it's predecessors that one can almost walk into this movie without knowing anything of the two before it. The cast is once again amazing, with only one new addition to the cast this time around. Benicio Del Toro joins the cast as Blain, leader of "The Wolves". His face is never seen but his dark voice makes it way through the metal mask and haunts your thoughts as he speaks. His character may be the most important one in Roland's story, next to the man in black. In the end, it is Blain that reveals to Roland where it is that he must go, and just how to go about getting there. Viggo Mortenson once again gives the most powerful performance in the film, as Roland dissolves into a sort of madness half way through the movie. A madness that isn't resolved until very near the end of the film. The end of the film is one of the most hard hitting and shocking ending I have ever seen. After seeing Eddie and Susanna develop a sort of quasi romance throughout the first half of the film, we must witness their untimely end. Eddie and Susanna are both killed in such horrible ways that Most people in the theatre had to turn away. It is only after the horrendous deaths of his two companions that Roland finds out the true location of The Dark Tower; a mythical structure that The Man in Black had spoken of before firing at Roland on the beach. When he returns to Calla with Eddie and Susanna's dead bodies he is faced with something shocking; a giant locomotive breathing smoke and beckoning him to come aboard. When he does, we watch the train thunder off into the distance as the credits role. David Lynch once again gives us a look into the disturbing world of The Dark Tower and, once again, leaves us hanging. One more film and we will get to see how Roland's journey ends.
Possible Nominations:
Best Picture
Best Actor - Viggo Mortenson
Best Supporting Actress - Tracie Thoms
All technical Categories
Dem Berenstain Bearz
Author(s): Kwame
Location: N/A
"Dem Berenstain Bearz"
Directed by Tim Robbins
Written by Tim Robbins and Susan Sarandon
Music by Swizz Beatz and the Florida A&M University Marching Band
Main Cast
Columbus Short as Father
Tim Curry as Mother Bear
Ciara as Brother Bear
Chow Yun-Fat as Sister Bear
Steve Buscemi as Lizzy
Cicely Tyson as Too Tall
GrizzlyT-Pain as The Mayor
Tagline: "This Thanksgiving, rediscover the wildest cream of the wildest dreams from your youth"
Synopsis: There are 47 1/2 families in Over-Eastside Hamilton,Georgia. The 1/2 family,The Berenstain Bears is only considered a half-family because they are bears.In this clever re-imagining of the Berenstain Bears, Too Tall Grizzly,once the school bully,comes home after visiting his dying brother in Chile, and is inspired to "make a difference in this place,you know what I mean?". He is saddened by the mistreatement of his current friends,yet former foes, the Berenstain Bear family,and is determined to improve their reputation. However,the Mayor won't have this,and his evil prescene intervenes.Could Dem Berenstain Bearz become "a full family" by the time that the 2010 Census comes around?
What the Press would say:
Lou Lumenick of the New York Post boasts "I've already watched this movie 23 times and I haven't gotten enough of it.And I don't think I ever will....it sticks to you...it makes you think,and you'll soon be raving yourself". Peter Hammond of Maxim has this to say "Can you say 'Top Contender for all the critics association awards known to man'?". He added,"There has been quite a hustle and bustle about the cast...relative newcomer Columbus Short especially deserves the praise that has been bestowed upon the actors". The splendid hip-hop score,composed by Swizz Beatz, is described as being insane.Whatever the controversy may be over the authenticity of "Dem Berenstain Bearz",Tim Robbins must be commended for his passion toward this dream project of his.
FYC:
Best Picture
Best Director-Tim Robbins
Best Screenplay
Best Actor:Columbus Short
Best Actress:Cicely Tyson
Best Supporting Actor:Tim Curry,Steve Buscemi,Chow Yun-Fat,T-Pain
Best Supporting Actress:Ciara
Best Original Score:Swizz Beatz
Location: N/A
"Dem Berenstain Bearz"
Directed by Tim Robbins
Written by Tim Robbins and Susan Sarandon
Music by Swizz Beatz and the Florida A&M University Marching Band
Main Cast
Columbus Short as Father
Tim Curry as Mother Bear
Ciara as Brother Bear
Chow Yun-Fat as Sister Bear
Steve Buscemi as Lizzy
Cicely Tyson as Too Tall
GrizzlyT-Pain as The Mayor
Tagline: "This Thanksgiving, rediscover the wildest cream of the wildest dreams from your youth"
Synopsis: There are 47 1/2 families in Over-Eastside Hamilton,Georgia. The 1/2 family,The Berenstain Bears is only considered a half-family because they are bears.In this clever re-imagining of the Berenstain Bears, Too Tall Grizzly,once the school bully,comes home after visiting his dying brother in Chile, and is inspired to "make a difference in this place,you know what I mean?". He is saddened by the mistreatement of his current friends,yet former foes, the Berenstain Bear family,and is determined to improve their reputation. However,the Mayor won't have this,and his evil prescene intervenes.Could Dem Berenstain Bearz become "a full family" by the time that the 2010 Census comes around?
What the Press would say:
Lou Lumenick of the New York Post boasts "I've already watched this movie 23 times and I haven't gotten enough of it.And I don't think I ever will....it sticks to you...it makes you think,and you'll soon be raving yourself". Peter Hammond of Maxim has this to say "Can you say 'Top Contender for all the critics association awards known to man'?". He added,"There has been quite a hustle and bustle about the cast...relative newcomer Columbus Short especially deserves the praise that has been bestowed upon the actors". The splendid hip-hop score,composed by Swizz Beatz, is described as being insane.Whatever the controversy may be over the authenticity of "Dem Berenstain Bearz",Tim Robbins must be commended for his passion toward this dream project of his.
FYC:
Best Picture
Best Director-Tim Robbins
Best Screenplay
Best Actor:Columbus Short
Best Actress:Cicely Tyson
Best Supporting Actor:Tim Curry,Steve Buscemi,Chow Yun-Fat,T-Pain
Best Supporting Actress:Ciara
Best Original Score:Swizz Beatz
A Destiny of Souls
Author(s): James Somerton
Location: Canada
"A Density of Souls"
Directed By Marc ForsterWritten By Christopher Rice
Main Cast
Topher Grace as Stephen Conlin
Ben MacKenzie as Greg Darby
Penn Badgely as Brandon Charbonet
Hilarie Burton as Meredith Ducote
James Lafferty as Jeff Hugh
Connie Britton as Monica Conlin
Dana Nicholson as Trish Ducote
Tagline: "Friends Forever"
Synopsis: In the fall of 1994, four best friends (Stephen, Greg, Brandon, and Meredith) entered Cannon High School in the city of New Orleans. And then it all happened.PART ONE:Brandon Charbonet is now twenty-seven years old. He kisses his girlfriend goodbye as he heads out for a night with the guys. By midnight, he'll be dead. Shot himself in the throat. Meredith Ducote sits in her room at Harvest Pines Rehabilitation Center. She's been sitting here for five weeks, routinely getting up twice a day to go to meetings about her alcoholism. She'll get to leave soon though. Her mother is coming to pick her up.Stephen Conlin returns home after a night out with his boyfriend Jeff. Stephen checks in on his mother before retreating to his room and sitting at his computer. He's almost finished his third novel and his fans are clamoring for me. He'll have it finished by the end of the night, he's sure. Nobody has seen Greg Darby in three years.PART TWO:Greg and Brandon stand by their lockers, laughing with the rest of the football team about the embarrassment last night at that play. How could someone they used to hang out with be such a fag? Meredith joins them and starts in on the conversation.Meanwhile, Stephen Conlin leaves the drama building after an hour of being praised by everyone involved in last night's play for his magnificent performance. On his way home, he bumps into the start quarterback, Jeff Hugh, who offers him a ride home. Stephen politely declines and walks home.That night at the big game, Greg is taken off the field for fighting with one of his own team mates, leaving Jeff knocked out near the 30 yard line. Meredith is in a state of shock. Brandon doesn't think Greg did anything wrong. What the hell was Jeff doing defending that faggot Stephen anyway? And then something happened that would change everyone's life forever.PART THREE:Stephen walks out of a bookstore as rain starts falling on his head. Earlier that day he had attended the funeral of a one time friend. Meredith had also been there. She didn't look well. He thought he had seen Greg there but that couldn't have been. No one has seen Greg in years. Greg Darby stands atop the bell tower at Cannon High School. A sniper rifle rests on the edge, only balanced by his hand. He is waiting for him. Waiting for Stephen. When he sees the man who ruined his life and ended Brandon, he'll get his revenge. The rain is coming down so hard now. The wind has picked up. The sky is black. Everything looks like the world is ending. Stephen's car has broken down and he's waiting for Jeff to come pick up. He's waiting just outside Cannon High School.
What the Press would say:
"A Density of Souls" is a showcase for young talent in strong rolls that stick with you even after leaving the cinema. Written by Christopher Rice, and adapted from his novel, this is a sprawling tale of young lives torn to shreds by an event we are never privy to seeing or knowing about. It's a complex and sordid story told in flashbacks and flash-forwards, opening with a suicide and ending with a murder. This film tells us the story of Greg, Brandon, Meredith, and Stephen; four best friends torn apart in high school. Although three of them stick together for the most part, Stephen is left completely alone in high school, the only attention paid to him by hateful students. Topher Grace is sixteen again in these scenes and you completely believe it. Along with his other acting companions, Grace switches flawlessly between his high school self and his adult self. Playing his mother is Connie Britton who dishes out a fantastic performance as Stephen's accepting, but worried, mother. When the car she buys him as a teenager is vandalized with homophobic statements, she makes sure that the car is taken away to be fixed before Stephen can see. She is always trying to protect him but, in the end, is forced to watch helplessly as her son fights for his life. The other standout performance in the film is from Ben MacKenzie, who gives a highly disturbing performance as Greg Darby, a high school football star who's career is cut short because of a violent temper that eventually leads him to the top of a bell tower with a sniper rifle. His eyes tell us so much and yet so little. We never are allowed to see why he hates Stephen so much, although he and Brandon both say, on several occasions, that their hatred is warranted. New Orleans gives a backdrop to the story that adds to the dark atmosphere. With Lafayette Cemetery always a reminder of death in the background, we're never allowed to forget the first disturbing scene in the movie when we see Brandon put a gun to head and let loose. "A Density of Souls" is dark, brooding, and unforgiving. It's a story of hate, jealousy, and secrets. A fantastic creation that delves deep into the darkness of the human soul and sees how many layers there really are. How one character can redeem themselves in the end, and how one will never be able to forgive himself.
Possible Nominations
Best Picture
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Actor - Topher Grace
Best Supporting Actress - Connie Britton
Location: Canada
"A Density of Souls"
Directed By Marc ForsterWritten By Christopher Rice
Main Cast
Topher Grace as Stephen Conlin
Ben MacKenzie as Greg Darby
Penn Badgely as Brandon Charbonet
Hilarie Burton as Meredith Ducote
James Lafferty as Jeff Hugh
Connie Britton as Monica Conlin
Dana Nicholson as Trish Ducote
Tagline: "Friends Forever"
Synopsis: In the fall of 1994, four best friends (Stephen, Greg, Brandon, and Meredith) entered Cannon High School in the city of New Orleans. And then it all happened.PART ONE:Brandon Charbonet is now twenty-seven years old. He kisses his girlfriend goodbye as he heads out for a night with the guys. By midnight, he'll be dead. Shot himself in the throat. Meredith Ducote sits in her room at Harvest Pines Rehabilitation Center. She's been sitting here for five weeks, routinely getting up twice a day to go to meetings about her alcoholism. She'll get to leave soon though. Her mother is coming to pick her up.Stephen Conlin returns home after a night out with his boyfriend Jeff. Stephen checks in on his mother before retreating to his room and sitting at his computer. He's almost finished his third novel and his fans are clamoring for me. He'll have it finished by the end of the night, he's sure. Nobody has seen Greg Darby in three years.PART TWO:Greg and Brandon stand by their lockers, laughing with the rest of the football team about the embarrassment last night at that play. How could someone they used to hang out with be such a fag? Meredith joins them and starts in on the conversation.Meanwhile, Stephen Conlin leaves the drama building after an hour of being praised by everyone involved in last night's play for his magnificent performance. On his way home, he bumps into the start quarterback, Jeff Hugh, who offers him a ride home. Stephen politely declines and walks home.That night at the big game, Greg is taken off the field for fighting with one of his own team mates, leaving Jeff knocked out near the 30 yard line. Meredith is in a state of shock. Brandon doesn't think Greg did anything wrong. What the hell was Jeff doing defending that faggot Stephen anyway? And then something happened that would change everyone's life forever.PART THREE:Stephen walks out of a bookstore as rain starts falling on his head. Earlier that day he had attended the funeral of a one time friend. Meredith had also been there. She didn't look well. He thought he had seen Greg there but that couldn't have been. No one has seen Greg in years. Greg Darby stands atop the bell tower at Cannon High School. A sniper rifle rests on the edge, only balanced by his hand. He is waiting for him. Waiting for Stephen. When he sees the man who ruined his life and ended Brandon, he'll get his revenge. The rain is coming down so hard now. The wind has picked up. The sky is black. Everything looks like the world is ending. Stephen's car has broken down and he's waiting for Jeff to come pick up. He's waiting just outside Cannon High School.
What the Press would say:
"A Density of Souls" is a showcase for young talent in strong rolls that stick with you even after leaving the cinema. Written by Christopher Rice, and adapted from his novel, this is a sprawling tale of young lives torn to shreds by an event we are never privy to seeing or knowing about. It's a complex and sordid story told in flashbacks and flash-forwards, opening with a suicide and ending with a murder. This film tells us the story of Greg, Brandon, Meredith, and Stephen; four best friends torn apart in high school. Although three of them stick together for the most part, Stephen is left completely alone in high school, the only attention paid to him by hateful students. Topher Grace is sixteen again in these scenes and you completely believe it. Along with his other acting companions, Grace switches flawlessly between his high school self and his adult self. Playing his mother is Connie Britton who dishes out a fantastic performance as Stephen's accepting, but worried, mother. When the car she buys him as a teenager is vandalized with homophobic statements, she makes sure that the car is taken away to be fixed before Stephen can see. She is always trying to protect him but, in the end, is forced to watch helplessly as her son fights for his life. The other standout performance in the film is from Ben MacKenzie, who gives a highly disturbing performance as Greg Darby, a high school football star who's career is cut short because of a violent temper that eventually leads him to the top of a bell tower with a sniper rifle. His eyes tell us so much and yet so little. We never are allowed to see why he hates Stephen so much, although he and Brandon both say, on several occasions, that their hatred is warranted. New Orleans gives a backdrop to the story that adds to the dark atmosphere. With Lafayette Cemetery always a reminder of death in the background, we're never allowed to forget the first disturbing scene in the movie when we see Brandon put a gun to head and let loose. "A Density of Souls" is dark, brooding, and unforgiving. It's a story of hate, jealousy, and secrets. A fantastic creation that delves deep into the darkness of the human soul and sees how many layers there really are. How one character can redeem themselves in the end, and how one will never be able to forgive himself.
Possible Nominations
Best Picture
Best Adapted Screenplay
Best Actor - Topher Grace
Best Supporting Actress - Connie Britton
Dubai
Author(s): Maia
Location: LA
"Dubai"
Written and Directed by Michael Winterbottom
Main Cast
Gerard Butler as Trevor Bartley
Alan Rickman as Emmanuel Norton
Cameron Diaz as Amanda Matheson
Ashraf Barhom as Hiram Merinak
Bar Refaeli as Fatima Merinak
Jason Isaacs as Armand Matheson
Emily Mortimer as Charlotte
Oded Fehr as Emre Sham
Tagline: "Welcome to Paradise (Right of Admission Reserved)"
Synopsis: A study into the effects of global commerce on human and labor rights in one of the most contrasting cities in the world: Dubai; during the days leading to the inaugural ceremony of an exclusive resort:Everything bright and charming architect TREVOR BARTLEY (Butler) wanted since joining the Development Department of Golden Crown Resorts was to become supervisor of one of the company’s top projects. His dream came true when he was made responsible of the construction of The Rajah Resort in Dubai: a grand-luxury hotel that would become the most important for the company on the Middle East. Unfortunately, after eight months of exhaustive work and unsuccessful negotiations with Dubai’s corrupt authorities and cheap but lazy labor force; most of Bartley’s early enthusiasm turned into scorn. Not even the company of many local girls and the wife of a prominent executive could keep him thrilled anymore and now; a week before the hotel’s opening ceremony; can Bartley deal with the pressure of his snotty supervisors, a fraudulent inspector and the unhappy workforce?Bureaucratic construction inspector EMRE SHAM (Fehr) knows two ways to make a living: the traditional and the fast one. Known for his unpredictable temper and his disdain for foreigners; Sham had become a nightmare for a vast number of corporate architects and engineers during their stay in Dubai. When he met enthusiastic but inexperienced Trevor Bartley, Sham spotted a new source of additional profit. However, after months of extortion; something out of Bartley’s reach made things personal…For manipulative trophy-wife AMANDA MATHESON (Diaz), life in the paradisiacal Dubai was no longer exciting after four years. Her husband Armand (CEO of a prominent oil company based on the emirate) barely paid any attention to her and, after having done everything and being everywhere you can be on Dubai; Amanda realized she hadn’t done everyone yet when Trevor Bartley joined her elitist social circle. Their affair was a so-called secret within their community and sadly for Amanda, so was Bartley’s other woman...
FATIMA (Refaeli) was a dollar-seeking escort well connected with Dubai’s rich and powerful but when she met handsome Trevor Bartley, she fell in love. She couldn’t tell if he felt the same away about her but moving to his luxurious condo had been enough for her to leave her other clients; including detestable public servant Emre Sham.Humble construction worker HIRAM MERINAK (Barhom) was lucky to get any job these days. At age 40 and with heavy competition from younger and cheaper workers; a man like him was no longer valuable for Dubai’s society. He had to provide for his family, including his “college student” niece Fatima, so when the construction of the Rajah called for additional workforce due to unexpected delays; he was happy to do it for less than the minimum weight. Snobbish, upper-level auditor for Golden Crown EMMANUEL NORTON (Rickman) loved Dubai but hated its people (in his own words, after a one-month stay). Yet, he managed to act kindly to everyone but co-worker Trevor Bartley and his own assistant, the hypochondriac Charlotte (Emily Mortimer). The Bartley-Norton relationship had always been tough and their continuous critics were not limited to each other’s professional skills. Just days before the grand opening of the Rajah, Norton has found many of the final details are behind schedule and to make things worst; a local bureaucrat is threatening to close the hotel for no apparent reason. Norton and Bartley are now forced to work together to achieve the same goal…Will Bartley and Norton triumph over the vengeful Sham? Will Hiram discover Fatima’s extracurricular activities? Will Amanda find a new hobby before her husband finds about them? And most importantly, Will The Rajah open on time, or not?
What the Press would say:
English filmmaker Michael Winterbottom is known for his stylish direction and his ability to bring the best out of his ensembles. On his latest film, the very mature and incisive Dubai, Winterbottom’s trademarks are supported by the emirate’s gorgeous locations.In Winterbottom’s Dubai, there are the wealthy and the hopeful; the loyal and the deceiving, the powerful and the beautiful… Worlds and classes collide, willingly or not, but the director understands that the best way to inject his message to this story is by turning his characters into living morals instead of portraying them as stereotypes from Screenwriting 101. There are no perfect individuals in Dubai but the film still manages to be highly sensitive. The womanizing Trevor Bartley, played energetically by Gerard Butler, is a bright but unmotivated man who has lost his way. Butler prints very subtle hints of kindness and insecurity into his character’s (apparent) rock-hard persona and the result is a very magnetic and enticing performance that audiences can feel for.Cameron Diaz is also vibrant as the calculating Amanda. Diaz has certainly played similar characters before but here, the actress is able to spot a key twist on her vixen’s psyche: she is genuinely lonely. Amanda is a woman who gets what she wants but hardly what she needs and Diaz gets what the viewers need to see of the real Amanda to understand her. Supermodel Bar Refaeli is a revelation as the ambitious Fatima, a social climber on the wrong steps, a beautiful woman used to play with people but not to be played with. Refaeli takes many risks by the hand of Winterbottom and she ends up baring her soul (and more) in a career-making performance.Character actor Alan Rickman finds the perfect role to separate from his Harry Potter image in Emmanuel Norton: a neurotic, hypocrite and xenophobic snot forced to save the day. Rickman puts fierce determination on making his character an annoying but still likeable prick. Expect AMPAS to take notice of this versatile tour-de-force. Persian actor Ashraf Barhom made a lasting impression as an Iranian officer in The Kingdom last month and he’s now back with another moving and communicative performance. Barhom conveys clear emotions on each of his scenes, especially those where he has found about his niece’s secret life. Finally, Oded Fehr (of Sleeper Cell’s fame) is terrific as the egotistical, vulgar bureaucrat who won’t stop till he gets his honor restored. It’s a meaty role with lots of dramatic scenes and comedic quips and the actor’s clever delivery is essential for his character to leave a lasting impression on the viewers.Overall: Dubai is vigorous, witty and critical but at the core, it is a very commanding drama with lots of points perfectly made. Writer/Director Winterbottom delivers a well-conceived story that shows how in today’s economy, corporations are the ones getting global while individuals, us, remain on our own…Consider Dubai for the following awards:
Best Picture (Drama)
Best Ensemble (SAG)
Best Director –Winterbottom
Best Actor – Butler
Best Actress – Diaz
Best Supporting Actor – Rickman / Fehr / Barhom
Best Supporting Actress - Refaeli
Best Original Screenplay
Creativity Awards (Original Bait/Original Character/Cast/Tagline)
Location: LA
"Dubai"
Written and Directed by Michael Winterbottom
Main Cast
Gerard Butler as Trevor Bartley
Alan Rickman as Emmanuel Norton
Cameron Diaz as Amanda Matheson
Ashraf Barhom as Hiram Merinak
Bar Refaeli as Fatima Merinak
Jason Isaacs as Armand Matheson
Emily Mortimer as Charlotte
Oded Fehr as Emre Sham
Tagline: "Welcome to Paradise (Right of Admission Reserved)"
Synopsis: A study into the effects of global commerce on human and labor rights in one of the most contrasting cities in the world: Dubai; during the days leading to the inaugural ceremony of an exclusive resort:Everything bright and charming architect TREVOR BARTLEY (Butler) wanted since joining the Development Department of Golden Crown Resorts was to become supervisor of one of the company’s top projects. His dream came true when he was made responsible of the construction of The Rajah Resort in Dubai: a grand-luxury hotel that would become the most important for the company on the Middle East. Unfortunately, after eight months of exhaustive work and unsuccessful negotiations with Dubai’s corrupt authorities and cheap but lazy labor force; most of Bartley’s early enthusiasm turned into scorn. Not even the company of many local girls and the wife of a prominent executive could keep him thrilled anymore and now; a week before the hotel’s opening ceremony; can Bartley deal with the pressure of his snotty supervisors, a fraudulent inspector and the unhappy workforce?Bureaucratic construction inspector EMRE SHAM (Fehr) knows two ways to make a living: the traditional and the fast one. Known for his unpredictable temper and his disdain for foreigners; Sham had become a nightmare for a vast number of corporate architects and engineers during their stay in Dubai. When he met enthusiastic but inexperienced Trevor Bartley, Sham spotted a new source of additional profit. However, after months of extortion; something out of Bartley’s reach made things personal…For manipulative trophy-wife AMANDA MATHESON (Diaz), life in the paradisiacal Dubai was no longer exciting after four years. Her husband Armand (CEO of a prominent oil company based on the emirate) barely paid any attention to her and, after having done everything and being everywhere you can be on Dubai; Amanda realized she hadn’t done everyone yet when Trevor Bartley joined her elitist social circle. Their affair was a so-called secret within their community and sadly for Amanda, so was Bartley’s other woman...
FATIMA (Refaeli) was a dollar-seeking escort well connected with Dubai’s rich and powerful but when she met handsome Trevor Bartley, she fell in love. She couldn’t tell if he felt the same away about her but moving to his luxurious condo had been enough for her to leave her other clients; including detestable public servant Emre Sham.Humble construction worker HIRAM MERINAK (Barhom) was lucky to get any job these days. At age 40 and with heavy competition from younger and cheaper workers; a man like him was no longer valuable for Dubai’s society. He had to provide for his family, including his “college student” niece Fatima, so when the construction of the Rajah called for additional workforce due to unexpected delays; he was happy to do it for less than the minimum weight. Snobbish, upper-level auditor for Golden Crown EMMANUEL NORTON (Rickman) loved Dubai but hated its people (in his own words, after a one-month stay). Yet, he managed to act kindly to everyone but co-worker Trevor Bartley and his own assistant, the hypochondriac Charlotte (Emily Mortimer). The Bartley-Norton relationship had always been tough and their continuous critics were not limited to each other’s professional skills. Just days before the grand opening of the Rajah, Norton has found many of the final details are behind schedule and to make things worst; a local bureaucrat is threatening to close the hotel for no apparent reason. Norton and Bartley are now forced to work together to achieve the same goal…Will Bartley and Norton triumph over the vengeful Sham? Will Hiram discover Fatima’s extracurricular activities? Will Amanda find a new hobby before her husband finds about them? And most importantly, Will The Rajah open on time, or not?
What the Press would say:
English filmmaker Michael Winterbottom is known for his stylish direction and his ability to bring the best out of his ensembles. On his latest film, the very mature and incisive Dubai, Winterbottom’s trademarks are supported by the emirate’s gorgeous locations.In Winterbottom’s Dubai, there are the wealthy and the hopeful; the loyal and the deceiving, the powerful and the beautiful… Worlds and classes collide, willingly or not, but the director understands that the best way to inject his message to this story is by turning his characters into living morals instead of portraying them as stereotypes from Screenwriting 101. There are no perfect individuals in Dubai but the film still manages to be highly sensitive. The womanizing Trevor Bartley, played energetically by Gerard Butler, is a bright but unmotivated man who has lost his way. Butler prints very subtle hints of kindness and insecurity into his character’s (apparent) rock-hard persona and the result is a very magnetic and enticing performance that audiences can feel for.Cameron Diaz is also vibrant as the calculating Amanda. Diaz has certainly played similar characters before but here, the actress is able to spot a key twist on her vixen’s psyche: she is genuinely lonely. Amanda is a woman who gets what she wants but hardly what she needs and Diaz gets what the viewers need to see of the real Amanda to understand her. Supermodel Bar Refaeli is a revelation as the ambitious Fatima, a social climber on the wrong steps, a beautiful woman used to play with people but not to be played with. Refaeli takes many risks by the hand of Winterbottom and she ends up baring her soul (and more) in a career-making performance.Character actor Alan Rickman finds the perfect role to separate from his Harry Potter image in Emmanuel Norton: a neurotic, hypocrite and xenophobic snot forced to save the day. Rickman puts fierce determination on making his character an annoying but still likeable prick. Expect AMPAS to take notice of this versatile tour-de-force. Persian actor Ashraf Barhom made a lasting impression as an Iranian officer in The Kingdom last month and he’s now back with another moving and communicative performance. Barhom conveys clear emotions on each of his scenes, especially those where he has found about his niece’s secret life. Finally, Oded Fehr (of Sleeper Cell’s fame) is terrific as the egotistical, vulgar bureaucrat who won’t stop till he gets his honor restored. It’s a meaty role with lots of dramatic scenes and comedic quips and the actor’s clever delivery is essential for his character to leave a lasting impression on the viewers.Overall: Dubai is vigorous, witty and critical but at the core, it is a very commanding drama with lots of points perfectly made. Writer/Director Winterbottom delivers a well-conceived story that shows how in today’s economy, corporations are the ones getting global while individuals, us, remain on our own…Consider Dubai for the following awards:
Best Picture (Drama)
Best Ensemble (SAG)
Best Director –Winterbottom
Best Actor – Butler
Best Actress – Diaz
Best Supporting Actor – Rickman / Fehr / Barhom
Best Supporting Actress - Refaeli
Best Original Screenplay
Creativity Awards (Original Bait/Original Character/Cast/Tagline)
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