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TWO LOVERS (Running Time: 108 min; Rated: R)

Reviewed by Denise Castillón

TWO LOVERS studies the romantic obsession within a love triangle formed by lovers who are drawn to the others’ neediness and their peculiar desire to rescue them. The marvel of this emotionally-masochistic drama is how most of the viewing audience will be able to relate to this tale through their own past, disastrous relationships.

TWO LOVERS acquires an old-fashion appearance from the gloomy and outdated Brighton Beach neighborhood, where Leonard Kraitor (Joaquin Phoenix) lives with his parents (Isabella Rossellini and Moni Moshonov) in their Brooklyn apartment.

After returning home from a mysterious hospital stay, Leonard holds an undemanding job in the family dry cleaning business. His concerned parents set up their brooding son with Sandra (Vinessa Shaw), the lovely, dark-haired daughter of a business colleague. Before the two start their courtship, Leonard meets the luminous, yet self-destructive Michelle (Gwyneth Paltrow), who’s involved with her married boss. As the intrigued Leonard pursues his infatuation for Michelle, he maintains a “back-up” relationship with Sandra, who’s falling deeply for the wounded Leonard. Meanwhile, Michelle enjoys Leonard’s attentiveness as she cries on his ready shoulders over her hopeless love affair. In the end, Leonard must resolve his future that may or may not include Michelle.

TWO LOVERS stars Joaquin Phoenix, Gwyneth Paltrow, Vinessa Shaw (“The Hills Have Eyes”), Isabella Rossellini, John Ortiz (“Before Night Falls”), and Moni Moshonov (“Late Marriage”).

Directed and co-written by James Gray (“We Own the Night”). The screenplay is by James Gray & Richard Menello. Produced by Donna Gigliotti, James Gray, and Anthony Katagas. Executive producers are Todd Wagner, Mark Cuban and Marc Butan. A 2929 Production. Released by Magnolia Pictures.

PLAY THE GAME

Starring: Andy Griffith, Liz Sheridan, Paul Campbell, Marla Sokoloff and Doris Roberts

Directed by: Marc Fienberg

Rated PG-13 for sexual content and language

By John Delia

I don’t remember when I have laughed so much at a showing of a movie involving older people. Well, Play The Game did it for me! The wonderful little story took me by surprise, kept my attention throughout and provided me with some great entertainment. To tell the truth I didn’t know Andy Griffith and Liz Sheridan had it in them to pull it off. Pull off what you say? Well it my be gross to some and engrossing to others, but in the world of sex, yes oldsters still do it.

The story goes something like this: Ladies’ man David (Campbell) teaches his dating tricks to his lonely, widowed grandfather Joe (Griffith), while using those same tricks to meet Julie (Sokoloff), the woman of his dreams. While David's foolproof techniques prove to be anything but, the same techniques quickly transform Joe into the Don Juan of the retirement community leading to an unexpected intimate affair with Edna (Sheridan). But soon, it’s up to Joe to teach David that sometimes the best way to win the game of love is not to play games at all.

I liked the feisty little film as all the characters were interesting, the actors on their mark and the directing brilliant. I was totally amazed by the performance of Griffith as the old timer lost in memories in his retirement home. In Play The Game he shows how spry an 82 year-old can be with a memorable characterization that is enchanting and admirable. Check out his very suave dance steps for laughs.

All that have seen Liz Sheridan (Seinfeld) before know what a great comedian she is and in this film she shines even more. I loved her performance as the forward woman that goes after Joe and teaches him some new tricks. But, she’s also the one who brings Joe back to the reality that life has some downfalls as well.

You will probably recognize Doris Roberts from Everybody Loves Raymond. Here she plays the lonely widow that picks up the pieces. Seeing her in this film reminded me of how many times I have seen Roberts in the over 100 appearances in film and TV. She is the consummate actress that most all have come to love.

The film is written and directed by Fienberg who treats the film with a loving hand, making his characters enjoyable to watch. His ability to bring out the best is shown in the performance of both Griffith and Campbell.

The film does contain some sexual material and some brief language, so be cognizant of this when bringing youngsters along.

FINAL ANALYSIS: A great film for those in love and a look at life’s realities. (4 of 5 Palm Trees)

FRIDAY THE 13TH

Starring: Jared Padalecki, Derek Mears, Amanda Righetti, Danielle Panabaker and Aaron Yoo

Directed by: Marcus Nispel

Rated R for strong bloody violence, some graphic sexual content, language and drug material

By John Delia

I must admit, I’m a sucker for slasher films and Producer Michael Bay’s remake of Friday the 13th hits the top of my list. While you may find a lot of similar things from the original, no one can create violence like Michael Bay. With today’s CGI and special effects and make-up the realism comes pouring off the screen. If you are into getting frightened by a tall guy in a ski mask who roams a scary wood and creates a lot of blood, then this film should provide you with those kinds of thrills.
Searching for his missing sister, Clay Miller (Padalecki) heads up to the eerie woods of legendary Crystal Lake, where he stumbles on the creaky remains of rotting old cabins behind moss-covered trees. And that's not the only thing lying in wait under the brush. Against the advice of police and cautions from the locals, Clay pursues what few leads he has in the search for his missing sister, Whitney (Righetti), with the help of Jenna (Panabaker), a young woman he meets among a group of college kids up for an all-thrills weekend. But they are all about to find much more than they bargained for. Little do they know, they've entered the domain of one of the most terrifying specters in American film history -- the infamous killer who haunts Crystal Lake, armed with a razor-sharp machete... Jason Voorhees (Mears).
The star of this film is the direction and cinematographer that give you bird’s eye and close up views of all the action. Relentless with shots that make you jump, even when you are anticipating the action, Nispel (Texas Chain Saw Massacre) shows it all. His scenes are very bloody, very scary and mostly gory, but that is what the movie is all about. The plotline probably sucks as the only suspense comes from waiting to see the next kill, but again, isn’t the mayhem the real story?
Now I am not an advocate of slasher movies, and I can only take maybe one or two per year out of the hundreds of all genre movies that I see. But when one like this comes along, my fright meter wants to be jiggled till the dial goes off the end. That’s what Friday the 13th did for me. I gladly am thankful that I do not live in a mountain home or in a secluded forest, as I would be looking over my shoulder for a long time.
The film is rated R and contains some very explicit nudity and sex, adult language and the killings are very brutal and graphic so if your mom says to take your little brother or sister along, make sure they are settled in with a responsible adult watching Coraline or any other G or PG film. If you take your girlfriend to this one make sure you have a leather jacket on or you will probably have to explain the claw marks on your arms.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Friday the 13th is high on the fear and gore meter, and probably a treat for slasher film lovers. (3.5 of 5 Palm Trees)

THE INTERNATIONAL

Starring: Clive Owen, Naomi Watts, Armin Mueller-Stahl and Brían F. O’Byrne

Directed by: Tom Tykwer

Rated R for some sequences of violence and language

By John Delia

Filled with gripping suspense, action and awesome photography The International is a must see for adults who like a good realistic modern day thriller. Direction by Tykwer, acting by Owen and cinematography by Frank Griebe puts this film on top of my 2009 list.
Interpol Agent Louis Salinger (Owen) and Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Eleanor Whitman (Watts) are determined to bring to justice one of the world’s most powerful banks. Uncovering myriad and reprehensible illegal activities, Salinger and Whitman follow the money from Berlin to Milan to New York to Istanbul. Finding themselves in a high-stakes chase across the globe, their relentless tenacity puts their own lives at risk, as their targets will stop at nothing – even murder – to continue financing terror and war. When Salinger and Whitman get close to breaking the bank, all hell breaks loose.
Although it is early in the year for judging acting performances, Clive Owen is starting to make his move to top of the male acting food chain. His screen presence has been making a statement for a long time in films like Sin City, Closer, Children of Men, Derailed and Shoot ‘Em Up, with The International he proves his worth as the relentless international cop who pulls no punches in a quest to take down the biggest bank in the world. In the opening scene you see Owen looking at you with his hypnotic stare at the camera for several seconds, moments later he is this passionate character trying to save a friend. His acting ability reminds me of Michael Caine in Funeral in Berlin or Maximilian Schell in The Odessa File while they were on there way up.
Tykwer’s direction coupled with Griebe’s photography is impeccable, guiding the camera in and out of the action. Taking long shots of Berlin, Milan, New York and Istanbul he adds amazing visuals to the mix of action and intrigue. His ‘war’ scene in the Guggenheim Museum in New York should go down as one of the best action sequences in a decade.
The film is rated R for some sequences of violence and language so use caution when deciding to take immature youngsters to see the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: A very good film for those who like films that thrill. (4 of 5 Palm Trees)











In The International, a gripping thriller, Interpol Agent Louis Salinger (Clive Owen) and Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Eleanor Whitman (Naomi Watts) are determined to bring to justice one of the world’s most powerful banks. Uncovering myriad and reprehensible illegal activities, Salinger and Whitman follow the money from Berlin to Milan to New York to Istanbul. Finding themselves in a high-stakes chase across the globe, their relentless tenacity puts their own lives at risk as their targets will stop at nothing – even murder – to continue financing terror and war. Directed by Tom Tykwer (Run Lola Run) from an original screenplay written by Eric Warren Singer, The International was shot on location in Germany and throughout Europe.

CONFESSIONS OF A SHOPAHOLIC

Starring: Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy, Krysten Ritter, Joan Cusack, John Goodman Kristin Scott Thomas, Julie Haggerty and John Lithgow.

Directed by: P.J. Hogan

Rated PG for some mild language and thematic elements

By John Delia

It may be a chick flick, but Confessions of a Shopaholic is also a great date film, as long as the male half keeps his credit card at home. I found the film fun to watch, especially the great CGI with the Mannequins. If you are a woman, have little shopping resistances, and heavy credit card debt, there are a lot of lessons to learn here.
Rebecca Bloomwood (Fisher) has been running from debt collectors for some time, especially since she cannot seem to avoid a department store window. If and item is by a top designer and on sale, she just has to have it. One thing is wrong with this picture; she doesn’t have the job of her dreams to afford her sprees. Always wanting to write for a top fashion magazine, Rebecca finally gets an opportunity for an interview with the editor. On her way to the interview she sees a green scarf on sale and after a lot of finagling, she gets it, but the stop over causes her to miss her one big opportunity. Down and out, someone tips her off that a business magazine owned by the same company is looking for someone. Rebecca realizes if she gets this job she can work her way up to her dream. When she finds out that part of the finagling involved lying to her new editor (Dancy), many more fibs lead her into some very funny situations.
I like Isla Fisher, actually she reminds me of one of my favorite actresses, Amy Adams (Enchanted, Doubt). Isla gives an impressive performance as the out-of-control shopaholic, making the character believable, interesting and in a way heroic (to many women). I loved the scene where Rebecca fights over a pair of Pravda boots and another where she has to talk her way out of a Finnish conversation. But she shines most when everything comes crashing down around her and she has to try to pick up the pieces.
In support, Dancy makes a great managing editor for the business magazine. His intuition on hiring Rebecca slowly changes into second thoughts after a snafu that puts a dim light on his publication. And Ritter as Rebecca’s best friend provides some hilarious interaction when she has to deal with Rebecca’s lack of cash.
Direction by Hogan is pinpoint perfect, getting his characters to pull off the kind of comedy that makes you feel good. I have to admit, I’m not a lover of chick flicks, but this one had a great premise and at last something for the males to LAUGH at.
The film is rated PG for some mild language but should be ok for pre teens and mature youngsters.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Confessions is a good situation comedy that most all the family will like; at least the women for sure. (3.5 of 5 Palm Trees)

LIONSGATE® PULLS IN LEE DANIELS’ SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL TRIPLE AWARD WINNER PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE





OPRAH WINFREY AND TYLER PERRY ALIGN WITH LIONSGATE® IN AN UNPRECEDENTED PARTNERSHIP



Studio Acquires North American Distribution Rights From Smokewood Entertainment Group And Reunites With Academy Award® Winning Monster’s Ball Producer Daniels





SANTA MONICA, CA (February 2, 2009) – LIONSGATE® (NYSE: LGF), a leading next generation studio, announced today that it has acquired North American distribution rights to 2009 Sundance Film Festival sensation PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE. Directed by Lee Daniels (SHADOWBOXER), PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE won both the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award in the U.S. Dramatic Competition, only the third film in Festival history to do so. Star Mo’Nique was honored with a Special Jury Prize for acting. PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE was produced by Daniels, and Sarah Siegel-Magness and Gary Magness under their Smokewood Entertainment Group (S.E.G.) banner; Lisa Cortés and Tom Heller were executive producers. The screenplay was written by Damien Paul, based on Sapphire’s 1996 book. PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE stars newcomer Gabourey “Gabby” Sidibe, Paula Patton (DEJA VU), Mo’Nique (SHADOWBOXER), Grammy® Award-winning artist Mariah Carey, Sherri Shepherd (“30 Rock”) and Grammy® Award-winning artist Lenny Kravitz. The deal marks the second collaboration between Lionsgate and Daniels, who produced the studio’s Academy Award®-winning MONSTER’S BALL. The announcement was made by Jason Constantine, Lionsgate President of Acquisitions and Co-Productions.


In an unprecedented partnership, Oprah Winfrey and Tyler Perry will support Lionsgate's distribution of PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE, through their respective motion picture companies, Harpo Films and 34th Street Films. It will be the first film affiliated with Perry’s 34th Street banner.



“PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE is an extraordinary film about taking hold of life; to watch it is to be galvanized and uplifted,” said Constantine. “MONSTER’S BALL introduced Lee as a gifted producer; we believe PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE firmly establishes him as one of America’s finest directors.”



Said Daniels, “I know from my MONSTER’S BALL experience that PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE has found the best home possible. I’m really looking forward to working again with smart, innovative friends at Lionsgate.”



Commented Winfrey, “I’ve never seen anything like it. The moment I saw PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE, I knew I wanted to do whatever I could to encourage other people to see this movie. The film is so raw and powerful - it split me open.”



Added Perry, “I am honored to join Oprah Winfrey and Lionsgate in releasing Lee Daniels’ exceptional film. I was immensely moved by PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE, and wanted to do whatever I could to help others share in its redemptive experience. Lionsgate is the ideal studio to shepherd this artistically courageous film to market.”



“We like to work with filmmakers who harness instinct and vision to compelling projects, creating motion pictures that resonate emotionally with an audience. That is why we chose PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE,” said Sarah Siegel-Magness, managing partner of S.E.G.



PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE is the second film directed by Daniels, following 2006’s SHADOWBOXER. Daniels made motion picture history with his first film as a producer, MONSTER’S BALL, becoming the first African-American sole producer of an Academy AwardÒ-winning, substantial critical and box office success. The film garnered Halle Berry the 2002 Academy Award® for Best Actress and also received a nomination for Best Original Screenplay. Daniels subsequently produced the award-winning drama THE WOODSMAN and the recent TENNESSEE, which was funded by S.E.G. in its first collaboration with Lee Daniels Entertainment. S.E.G. fully financed PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE.



The deal was negotiated by Eda Kowan, Senior Vice President of Acquisitions and Co-Productions, Wendy Jaffe, Executive Vice President Business & Legal Affairs, Acquisitions and Co-Productions, and Constantine on behalf of Lionsgate; Cinetic sold the film and negotiated the deal on behalf of S.E.G. and Lee Daniels in close collaboration with attorneys Roger Arar and Craig Emanuel at Loeb & Loeb, Sloss Eckhouse Brennan, and Jonathan Gray of Gray Krauss.





FILM SYNOPSIS (Courtesy Of Sundance Institute)

With sheer audacity and utter authenticity, director Lee Daniels tackles PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE and creates an unforgettable film that sets a new standard for cinema of its kind. Precious Jones (Gabourey “Gabby” Sidibe) is a high-school girl with nothing working in her favor. She is pregnant with her father’s child - for the second time. She can’t read or write, and her schoolmates tease her for being fat. Her home life is a horror, ruled by a mother (Mo’Nique) who keeps her imprisoned both emotionally and physically. Precious’s instincts tell her one thing: if she’s ever going to break from the chains of ignorance, she will have to dig deeply into her own resources. Don’t be misled - PUSH: BASED ON THE NOVEL BY SAPPHIRE is not a film wallowing in the stillness of depression; instead, it vibrates with the kind of energy derived only from anger and hope. The entire cast are amazing; they carry out a firestorm of raw emotion. Daniels has drawn from them inimitable performances that will rivet you to your seat and leave you too shocked to breathe. If you passed Precious on the street, you probably wouldn’t notice her. But when her story is revealed, as Daniels does in this courageous film, you are left with an indelible image of a young woman who - with creativity, humor, and ferocity - finds the strength to turn her life around.





ABOUT LIONSGATE

Lionsgate is the leading next generation studio with a major presence in the production and distribution of motion pictures, television programming, home entertainment, family entertainment, video-on-demand and digitally delivered content. The Company is leveraging its content leadership and marketing expertise through a series of partnerships that include the operation of the FEARNet branded VOD and Internet horror channel with Sony and Comcast, the expected fall 2009 launch of a epix, the new premium entertainment channel with partners Viacom, Paramount Pictures and MGM, investment in the leading young men's digital distribution platform Break.com, ownership of the premier independent television syndication company Debmar-Mercury and an alliance with independent filmed entertainment production and distribution company Roadside Attractions. Lionsgate also has forged partnerships with leading content creators, owners and distributors in key territories around the world, including Televisa in the U.S. and Latin America, StudioCanal in the UK, Hoyts and Sony in Australia and Eros International in India.



On January 5, 2009, Lionsgate announced its plan to acquire the TV Guide Network and TVGuide.com. The deal is expected to close on February 28, 2009.



The Company has generated more than $450 million at the North American theatrical box office in the past 12 months and has forged leadership positions in television and home entertainment with the production of such critically-acclaimed television series as “Weeds” and “Mad Men,” the distribution of “Tyler Perry's House of Payne,” “Family Feud,” “South Park,” “Trivial Pursuit” and “The Dead Zone,” and nearly 7% market share and the industry's leading box office-to-DVD conversion rate in home entertainment. Lionsgate handles a prestigious and prolific library of approximately 12,000 motion picture and television titles that is an important source of recurring revenue and serves as the foundation for the growth of the Company's core businesses. The Lionsgate brand is synonymous with entrepreneurial innovation and original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the globe.



www.lionsgate.com

DISNEY/MIRAMAX RELEASE FILMS ON DVD & BLU-RAY
By Al McGhee

February 10, 2009 BLINDNESS (Rated: R) MIRAMAX
A mysterious epidemic sends a city reeling toward the edge of madness, while one woman tries to preserve a small pocket of humanity in the taut thriller Blindness, coming to DVD on February 10, 2009. Presented by Miramax Films and based on Nobel Laureate José Saramago’s masterful novel, this intense and gritty drama, called a "powerful and provocative" movie by Stephen Schaefer of the Boston Herald, was nominated for the 2008 Palme d’Or, the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

February 10, 2008 PHINEAS AND FERB: The Daze Of Summer
(Rated: TV-G) DISNEY
Summer fun lasts forever when you hang with Phineas and Ferb, so pull up a beach chair and get ready to laugh with 5 hilarious episodes from the smash-hit Disney Channel Original Series. Viewers can get in on the fun with the exclusive Googolplex Mall Science Fair Games and can create their own experiments! Super-smart and seriously funny stepbrothers Phineas and Ferb come up with unusually exciting ways to spend the lazy, crazy "daze" of summer -- like searching for pirate's treasure, traveling to Mars, building Greek chariots and hosting a Medieval jousting tournament! While the guys are cramming each long day with cool friends, awesome
adventures and totally rocking music, their pet platypus, Perry (aka Agent P), continues to protect the world from the evil Dr. Doofenschmirtz. And, of course, their big sis, Candace, keeps busy texting her friends and trying to bust the bros.

February 10, 2009 PRETTY WOMAN (Blu-ray) (Rated: R)
Get ready to fall head over heels one more time when Pretty Woman comes to Blu-ray™ Hi-Def on February 10, 2009 from Buena Vista Home Entertainment. One of the world’s most popular romantic comedies returns with crystal clear picture and pristine sound, as well as special features guaranteed to melt hearts all over again. Academy Award® Winner Julia Roberts (Best Actress, Erin Brockovich, 2000) and Golden Globe® winner
Richard Gere (Best Actor In A Motion Picture - Musical Or Comedy, Chicago, 2002) light up the screen in director Garry Marshall’s ( The Princess Diaries, Beaches) classic Cinderella story.

February 10, 2009 WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE: Supernaturally Stylin’
(Rated: TV-G) DISNEY
Enjoy hilarious episodes from the smash-hit Disney Channel Original Series and join stars Selena Gomez and the cast for an exclusive look at their personal styles -- plus viewers can visit the show's fabulous costume closets! Wizards-in-training Alex Russo (Gomez) and her brothers Justin and Max are having an awesome time experimenting with their supernatural powers -- but they still have a lot to learn! Viewers will be spellbound as they stir up outrageously funny situations such as using the freeze-frame spell so Alex can make her mark in the fashion industry, figuring out the quirky side effects of Wizard Wear and saving Justin when he falls into "puppy love" and turns into a werewolf! As these cool kids juggle their ordinary lives with their extraordinary powers,
it's a sure thing there will be more magic and mayhem brewing with the WIZARDS OF WAVERLY PLACE!

February 17, 2009 HIGH SCHOOL MUSICAL 3: Senior Year
(DVD & Blu-ray) (Rated: G)
The worldwide blockbuster that thrilled kids of all ages is now the entertainment event of 2009 when Disney’s High School Musical 3: Senior Year –Extended Edition, arrives on Blu-ray and DVD from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment on February 17th.
America’s favorite Wildcats (Zac Efron, Vanessa Hudgens, Ashley Tisdale, Corbin Bleu, Lucas Grabeel, and Monique Coleman) are back for their exciting final year at East High. Director Kenny Ortega pulls out all the stops with incredible new music and exhilarating dance numbers that will blow away devoted franchise fans and newcomers alike. And, now viewers can see the movie like never before, with the all-new 3-disc Deluxe Extended Edition which features the never before seen extended movie on both DVD and Blu-ray disc – in one set! Plus, this Deluxe set also includes DisneyFile digital copy, and exclusive bonus features such as deleted scenes, bloopers and much more.

SCENE @ SUNDANCE FILM FESTIVAL 2009 – Special Event
IndieVest Pictures Party, with Performance by Molly Jenson

By Denise Castillón

IndieVest, an independent film studio, financier and distributor, held the first of its parties during Sundance, on Friday, January 16th. The festivities commenced following a private cocktail reception and four-course gourmet dinner in the main ballroom of the luxurious Hotel Park City, and featured a special performance by up-and-coming singer/songwriter, Molly Jenson. The exclusive guest list included film industry “insiders” as well as high-net-worth IndieVest members.

IndieVest is an independent film studio and distributor financed by its’ membership-based community of accredited investors. IndieVest members are provided with opportunities to become an “exclusive insider” in the independent film community, as well as “first look” access to independent film projects currently under development at IndieVest Pictures. Once a member chooses to invest in one or more independent film investment opportunities, they become a screen-credited IndieVest Executive Producer. Above and beyond the reward of contributing to a feature film project and a potentially significant return on investment, investors receive “Executive Producer-only” privileges. An Executive Producer is able to attend the set location while their particular film is shooting, plus enjoy premium VIP seating at their film’s premiere screening as well as the after-party attended with members of the cast.

Among the guests enjoying the evening’s events, were IndieVest Executive Producers –New York-based artist Nic Rad, chemical manufacturers and brothers, Aakash and Badal Shah, who are financing the studios’ first film production, the comedy SAINT JOHN OF LAS VEGAS, starring Steve Buscemi, Sarah Silverman, Romany Malco and Peter Dinklage.

YET: What motivated you to become a film investor?

BADAL SHAH: The motivation for me to become a film investor was largely due to my passion for film combined with the opportunistic participation that IndieVest provided. I always knew that I would like to pursue my passion for film by getting involved with the business side of the industry and indieVest offered the best opportunity and what seemed to be the lowest-risk investment for a rookie film investor.

AAKASH SHAH: I felt very confident in the indieVest team and revenue model, and this is what really helped me confirm that I was making the right decision. I feel confident that being a part of indieVest will help me become involved in quality films that bring real experiences to the viewers.

NIC RAD: I see the value…plus, I value the opportunity to bring together artists and commerce. Personally, I’ve watched friends struggle to bring their film projects into production. Now that I’ve achieved success as an artist, I can support filmmakers in their artistic medium through my investment.


YET: Why join IndieVest community?

BADAL SHAH: I chose to join the IndieVest community because of the wealth of experience, knowledge, and intelligence of the indieVest staff. This combined with their extremely strategic revenue model which included guaranteed distribution, proved to be an extremely attractive investment and team that I wanted to join.

AAKASH SHAH: I also feel that it is a great opportunity to meet with other investors from completely different industries as a way of networking and possibly diversifying further into new business opportunities.

NIC RAD: I joined IndieVest, then got involved in its’ SAINT JOHN OF LAS VEGAS film project, before the economic crisis hit in late 2008. Nevertheless, the movie industry did very well in 2008, and, continues to do so. Just look how well the comedy “Four Christmases” performed at the box office.


YET: Why did you commit to participate financially on SAINT JOHN OF LAS VEGAS?

AAKASH SHAH: I chose to financially participate in “Saint John” because I believed in the project and the experience that would resonate with the viewers. I believe that this type of comedy would create a good experience for viewers who are stuck in the dark days of the current economic crisis. I feel that with the combination of actors such as Steve Buscemi, Romany Malco, and Sarah Silverman, this will be a classic slapstick comedy that many people will like to see over and over again.

NIC RAD: I’m very impressed with IndieVest ….SAINT JOHN OF LAS VEGAS is a comedy with a great cast. And, it’s all been a good experience. I’ve enjoyed collaborating with the other investors as well as visiting the set and meeting the actors in the film, especially, Steve Buscemi, whose work I’ve always admired. It’s been a unique experience.

The feature-length comedy, SAINT JOHN OF LAS VEGAS is due to premiere late spring of 2009, and is a playful adaptation of Dante's "Inferno," starring Steve Buscemi as an ex-gambler, who gets lured back into the “Game” by a maverick insurance fraud investigator, played by Romany Malco. Emily Mortimer stars as their quirky co-worker. Tim Blake Nelson, John Cho and Emmanuelle Chriqui round out the films’ cast.


The founder and CEO of IndieVest, Inc. (IndieVest Pictures, IndieVest Securties), is former venture capitalist, Wade H. Bradley. The IndieVest Industry Advisory Board is comprised of Don Cheadle, Liev Schreiber, Mike Binder and Tim Blake Nelson.

In 2008, IndieVest’s membership, comprised of primarily individualists- doctors, surgeons, various business and technology entrepreneurs, real estate developers, oilmen, fund managers, commodity and equity traders, -grew nearly 300% over 2007. www.IndieVest.com

PUSH (Running Time: 111 min; Rated: PG-13)
Reviewed by Denise Castillón

PUSH is a sci-fi action-thriller that takes you for a smart and fast-flying ride that escalates towards a spectacular climactic battle. Unfortunately, it finishes with an unsettled conclusion, which perhaps hints at a hopeful sequel. And, comparison to TV’s “Heroes” is unavoidable.

Nick (CHRIS EVANS) is a “mover”, a second-generation telekinetic, who is hiding from the “Division”, a secret and nefarious U.S. governmental agency. After the end of WWII, the “Division” continued the experiments, originally conducted by the Nazis, on unwilling citizens with psychic abilities, in order to develop “super- soldiers”.

Reluctantly, Nick is recruited by teenaged Cassie (DAKOTA FANNING), a “watcher” with the ability to foresee the short-term future, to find a hidden case with mysterious contents that the “Division” agents as well as a local Chinese family of bad guys, will kill to possess. A “pusher” or telepathic, named Kira (CAMILLA BELLE), becomes crucial to their mission. Despite their severe trust issues, this conflicted team must outsmart and outwit their mutual enemies, in particular Carver, played by Djimon Hounsou.

PUSH is a breakout performance both for Fanning, as she sheds her “little girl” image, and Hounsou, as he exchanges his “white hat” to play the “villain”. While Hong Kong’s massive and bustling population is an ideal hideout for the story’s protagonists, the colorful vibrancy and futuristic-look of the city also serves as a “spot on” setting for this science fiction-themed film.

Starring Chris Evans (Fantastic Four), Dakota Fanning (The Secret Life of Bees), Camilla Belle (When a Stranger Calls) and Academy Award® nominee Djimon Hounsou (Blood Diamond).

Directed by Paul McGuigan, (Lucky Number Slevin). Written by David Bourla. Director of photography is Peter Sova. The editor is Nicolas Trembasiewicz. Nina Proctor and Laura Goldsmith are the costume designers. Production designer is François Séguin.

Produced by Bruce Davey, William Vince and Glenn Williamson. Executive producers are David Bourla, Michael Ohoven, Gretchen Somerfeld, David Valleau and Stan Wlodkowski. A co-production of Infinity Features, Icon Productions and Summit Entertainment. Released by Summit Entertainment.

Alyn Darnay’s Oscar Picks…

At this time of year I always undertake the humbling task of picking the Oscar winners. This year it seems a bit less challenging as it appears that the road is actually clear for a few audience favorites to grab top honors. So, without further ado, here’s my best guesses for who will walk away happy at the 81st Academy Awards.


Performance by an actor in a leading role:

Sean Penn will win for his brilliant performance in “Milk” (Focus Features), He’s an Academy favorite and this time around he’ll get the statue. If anyone can take it away from him it would be Mickey Rourke in “The Wrestler” (Fox Searchlight), but I don’t think so.


Performance by an actor in a supporting role:

Heath Ledger in “The Dark Knight” (Warner Bros.) Nobody can argue that his was an outstanding performance by an actor who was on the top of his game. The Academy will recognize that and honor him. If he wasn’t in the running, my money would be on Michael Shannon in “Revolutionary Road” (DreamWorks, Distributed by Paramount Vantage), great acting in a small but outstanding role.


Performance by an actress in a leading role:

Kate Winslet in “The Reader” (The Weinstein Company), no actress was better this year and her performance here was flawless and compelling. My vote hands down. If not Kate, then it’ll probably be Meryl Streep for “Doubt” (Miramax)



Performance by an actress in a supporting role

Viola Davis in “Doubt” (Miramax), she electrifies the screen in this role and deserves to win. I wouldn’t mind seeing Penélope Cruz win for “Vicky Cristina Barcelona” (The Weinstein Company), but it won’t happen nor will it happen for the very talented Marisa Tomei in “The Wrestler” (Fox Searchlight).




Achievement in directing

Danny Boyle for “Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight),. Brilliant vision, brilliantly executed under the hardest conditions lead to an outstanding film. It’s Danny Boyle’s style that makes this film what it is. If anyone has any chance of unseating him, it could only be Gus Van Sant for “Milk” (Focus Features).



Best motion picture of the year

“Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), A Celador Films Production, Christian Colson, Producer. The little film that could, will! And it deserves to win.



Best animated feature film of the year

“WALL-E” (Walt Disney), Andrew Stanton, beyond comparison the best.



Best foreign language film of the year

“Waltz with Bashir” (Sony Pictures Classics), A Bridgit Folman Film Gang Production, Israel. A challenging and controversial animated film approach that makes for great storytelling.



Best documentary feature

“Man on Wire” (Magnolia Pictures), A Wall to Wall in association with Red Box Films Production, James Marsh and Simon Chinn. Just because.




Achievement in cinematography

“Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), Anthony Dod Mantle for capturing the shear beauty, sweep and style that the director and script demanded.

Achievement in art direction

“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.), Art Direction: Donald Graham Burt, Set Decoration: Victor J. Zolfo will win for the beautiful sets that added to every frame of the film. Though the competition is stiff, “The Duchess” (Paramount Vantage, Pathé and BBC Films), Art Direction: Michael Carlin, Set Decoration: Rebecca Alleway, is stunning and “Changeling” (Universal), Art Direction: James J. Murakami, Set Decoration: Gary Fettis, captured the era perfectly.



Achievement in costume design

“The Duchess” (Paramount Vantage, Pathé and BBC Films), Michael O’Connor, I could be wrong here, but the costuming was perfect and added a new dimension to the typical period wardrobe we generally see. From there I’d say “Australia” (20th Century Fox), Catherine Martin or “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.), Jacqueline West.



Achievement in film editing

“Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), Chris Dickens. Films are made in edit, and this film is a prime example of that; moving, lyrical, and compelling in its journey.


Achievement in makeup

“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.), Greg Cannom. I don’t think that anyone can argue with this pick. Pitt’s age progressions will win over the Academy and capture the vote.



Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original score)

“Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), A.R. Rahman will win it; the score is unusual and exciting and blends perfectly with the story’s visuals and performances.


Achievement in music written for motion pictures (Original song)

“O Saya” from “Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), Music and Lyric by A.R. Rahman and Maya Arulpragasam. Just an old fashion good tune and the best song nominated this year.



Achievement in sound editing

“The Dark Knight” (Warner Bros.), Richard King. Hands down the best sound of any film nominated, rich, dynamic, and pure. Great Job.



Achievement in sound mixing

“The Dark Knight” (Warner Bros.), Lora Hirschberg, Gary Rizzo and Ed Novick. Mixed to perfection and delivered with a deft touch and an amazing range.



Achievement in visual effects

“The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” (Paramount and Warner Bros.), Eric Barba, Steve Preeg, Burt Dalton and Craig Barron, certainly the most challenging story to create, it treads new ground in character effects. If there’s a close runner up, I’d say the next most challenging effects film would be “The Dark Knight” (Warner Bros.), Nick Davis, Chris Corbould, Tim Webber and Paul Franklin.


Adapted screenplay

“Slumdog Millionaire” (Fox Searchlight), Screenplay by Simon Beaufoy. A beautifully realized adaptation of the original source material.


Original screenplay

“Milk” (Focus Features), Written by Dustin Lance Black, is a beautifully realized biopic that captures the characters and period to perfection as it tells the very human and compelling story of its main characters. “In Bruges” (Focus Features), Written by Martin McDonagh is just as good with its twists, sparkling dialog and humor, but unfortunately it’s not a favorite.


That wraps it up for this year’s guess work. Hopefully I’ve gotten more than a few right. We’ll see on February 22, 2009, 8 PM Eastern/5 PM Pacific, when the “Biggest Movie Event of the Year” gets under way hosted by actor Hugh Jackman (who by the way should have been nominated for his turn as “The Drover” in Australia). Enjoy the Telecast. -Alyn ‘09

PUSH

Starring: Chris Evans, Dakota Fanning, Camilla Belle, Ming-Na Wen and Djimon Hounsou

Directed by: Paul McGuigan

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, brief strong language, smoking and a scene of teen drinking

By John Delia

Here’s a Sci-fi film that really keeps your mind busy from its mind-blowing beginning to the explosive ending. I liked Push very much for the excellent directing, interesting concept and exceptional acting. Although the storyline is quite simple, the way it is presented and filmed makes for great Sci-fi. If you liked movies like Jumper, TV’s Heroes, Blade Runner, Total Recall or just a connoisseur of Science Fiction, then this heart pounding film should push you to the limit.
The story goes something like this. A shadowy government agency known as the Division is rounding up psychics for experiments designed to boost their powers and assemble the most commanding army the world has ever seen. Unfortunately, almost no one has ever survived these trials.
Nick Gant (Chris Evans), a second-generation telekinetic, or “mover,” has been in
hiding since the Division murdered his father more than a decade earlier. He has found
sanctuary in densely populated Hong Kong. Nick is forced out of hiding when Cassie Holmes (Dakota Fanning), a 13-year-old clairvoyant, or “watcher,” seeks his help in locating a briefcase that she claims holds $6 million. To find it, they will also have to find Kira, (Camilla Belle), an escaped “pusher” who is the only person ever to live through the Division’s experiments. Pushers possess the most dangerous of all psychic powers: the ability to influence others’ actions by implanting thoughts in their minds. But Cassie’s presence soon attracts the attention of the Division’s human bloodhounds, forcing Nick and Cassie to flee for their lives.
With the help of a team of expatriates with an array of special abilities, the
unlikely duo winds a path through the city’s most secret corners, trying to stay one step ahead of the authorities in their search for Kira. With Cassie’s visions guiding them, the pair moves closer to their goal, but finds themselves competing with a family of deadly psychics for the suitcase. Even more dangerous is Division Agent Henry Carver (Djimon Hounsou), a powerful pusher who needs both the contents of the case and Kira in order to create an unstoppable paranormal militia. Outgunned and outnumbered, Nick, Cassie, Kira and their allies must figure out a way to outsmart Carver if they are to prevent him from carrying out his sinister plan.
I know that is a lot of story to put in a review, but I felt it necessary, especially for those not into Sci-fi and able to remember a lot of detail like myself. But, I believe the description above does not take anything away from this volatile film.
The sharp acting talents of Evans, Fanning, Hounsou and Belle make the film work. Their energy and intellect lend nicely to the characters giving the film the added boost. Direction by McGuigan (Lucky Number Sleven) getting all the elements to work on his Hong Kong set is an amazing feat. He totally nails the characters, costumes, cinematography, special effects and CGI making the film a Sci-fi work of art.
The film has some wild characters with extreme powers. Movers who can transport objects, Watchers that have the ability to see the future, Pushers who can plant thoughts in your brain, Stitches that can heal, Sniffs that can track people down, Shadows that can use their minds to hide people and objects, Bleeders who scream to shatter glass and blood vessels, Shifts who can transform their appearance and Wipers who can wipe out your memory.
The film is Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence and action, brief strong language, smoking and a scene of teen drinking so be cautions when allowing pre-teens to view the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Push is a Sci-fi junkies dream come true. (4 of 5 Palm Trees)

Starring: Renée Zellweger Harry Connick Jr., Siobhan Fallon Hogan and JK Simmions

Directed by: Jonas Elmer

Rated PG for language and some suggestive material

By John Delia

Zellweger is at the top of her game in New in Town, a quirky little film that made me laugh a lot. What makes this film work so well is the sharp direction by Elmer. If you like films that make laughter from screwball antics, have a moment of emotion and move along at a good pace, then this film should be high on your radar.
Lucy Hill (Zellweger) is an ambitious, up and coming executive living in Miami. She loves her shoes, she loves her cars and she loves climbing the corporate ladder. When she is offered a temporary assignment - in the middle of nowhere - to restructure a manufacturing plant, she accepts the opportunity, knowing a big promotion is close at hand. Working in Minnesota, anyone can do that. Right! Well when Lucy gets there in the dead of winter, she starts getting second thoughts. Especially since the locals are not ready for change and more so not from a woman. What begins as a straightforward job assignment becomes a life changing experience.
I liked Connick, Jr. as the love interest in this film. His character Ted heads up the union that is involved in Lucy’s manufacturing plant and he has to go head-to-head with her on several occasions, most of which hinder a budding romance. In support of the hilarity, Hogan plays Blanche Gunderson, a nosey woman who ends up being the matchmaker. Her accent along with the others in the central northern state makes for even more laughter.
Directing a comedy is probably the toughest genre since timing and choreography of the blunders are very important and Elmer nails it in New in Town. Elmer’s Lucy finds herself falling off a porch or fighting with a zipper so she can pee or getting a heel caught in a grate, putting her in some of the most bungling situations that are timed with some good dialogue.
The only downside with the film is it’s predictable ending. But you know what? So what, it’s a fun comedy, and to watch Zellweger doing what she does best is well worth the price of admission.
The film is rated PG but plays well to the whole family. A word of warning, however there is some language and some suggestive material.

FINAL ANALYSIS: New in Town is a film for those who want a lot of laughs. (3.5 of 5 Palm Trees)

TAKEN

Starring: Liam Neeson, Maggie Grace, Famke Janssen and Leland Orser

Directed by: Peter Morel

Rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence, disturbing thematic material, sexual content, some drug references and language

By John Delia

One of the best non-stop pressure packed films I have seen in a decade, Taken takes a simple plot and pushes the envelope to the extreme. Welcome back Liam Neeson, it is great to see you performing like your early days. For those that like a lot of strong-minded attitude with their action, Taken is for you.
Bryan (Neeson) on his cell phone to one of the kidnappers: I don’t know you who you are. I don’t know what you want. If you’re looking for a ransom, I can tell you, I don’t have money. But what I do have are a very particular set of skills acquired 
over a very long career in the shadows, skills that make me a nightmare for people like you. If you let my daughter go now, that will be the end of it. I will not look for you. I will not pursue you. But if you don’t, I will look for you, I will find you. And I will kill you.
When the answer comes back…Good Luck! Bryan starts a pursuit of his kidnapped daughter who had started a trip across Europe beginning in Paris. He has 96-hours to find his daughter before she is sold into slavery and gone forever. Using his commando-like skills, connections in France, superior brainpower and ruthless mind-set, the former government operative takes on the slave traders with reckless abandon.
Neeson does a terrific job playing the revengeful father who lets nothing get in his way of getting his daughter back. Much like Mel Gibson’s role in Ransom, when it comes to family, the persons responsible for the kidnapping are going to suffer. Neeson’s nothing can stand in my way attitude translates boldly in Taken, and he never wavers out of character.
Direction by Morel of the action thriller includes seamless scenes, excellent cinematography, choreography and pinpoint timing making the fight/action scenes very realistic. His slow buildup of family relationships at the beginning of the film allows the audience to see the personality of the characters important to the plot. He brings the energy of the storyline to the screen without a lot of meaningless CGI. Using effective stunts, realistic martial arts and pyrotechnics, he raises the bar on excitement.
The film is rated PG-13 for intense sequences of violence, disturbing thematic material, sexual content, some drug references and language. Actually I do not know how they got this rating due to the realistic killings, so please take extra caution when deciding to let your teen see the film.

FINAL ANALYSIS: Taken is a realistic pressure packed film for action lovers. (4.5 of 5 Palm Trees)

Seen @ Sundance Film Festival 2009: PAPER HEART
Nicholas Jasenovec and Charlyne Yi won the WALDO SALT Screenwriting Award for PAPER HEART.


2009 Sundance U.S. Dramatic Competition Film
PAPER HEART (Running Time: 88 min; Rated: PG-13)
Reviewed by Denise Castillón

Paper Hearts’ documentary within a documentary style thoroughly seduces you into its’ love-seeking journey, laughing every step of the way with its’ convincingly, uncomfortable seeker, Charlyne Yi, that you totally forget this is largely a fictional story.

Actress and comedienne Charlyne Yi takes us along on her cross-country trek to conduct interviews with real-life people, who have experienced true love, in hopes she may uncover her own capacity to fell in love. Lo and behold, Yi meets fellow comedic actor, Michael Cera, at a party. From then on, the film focuses on their hilariously, clumsy courtship that develops into an equally hysterical, uneasy relationship.

When Charlyne Yi accepted the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award for her film PAPER HEART, co-written with her director, Nicholas Jasenovec, she noted the irony that the film went into production with only fifteen written pages of script, with the rest of the films’ dialogue improvised on the set.

Seen @ Sundance Film Festival 2009: ADAM
Max Mayer, director of ADAM, won the Alfred P. Sloan Prize for
outstanding feature film focusing on science or technology as a theme.


2009 Sundance U.S. Dramatic Competition Film
ADAM (Running Time: 95 min; Not Rated)
Reviewed by Denise Castillón

ADAM is a wonderfully unique romantic drama. Oxford-educated actor, Hugh Dancy delivers an outstanding performance as the titular “Adam”, a gifted engineer with Asperger’s Syndrome, a high functioning form of autism. In spite of limited social skills, Adam struggles against his isolated and programmed life to form a romantic attachment with his new neighbor, Beth (Rose Bryne, FX’s Damages). Dancy (soon to be seen in Disney’s comedy, Confessions of a Shopaholic), portrays Adam’s single-minded effort to emotionally connect so movingly, that you cannot help but fell in love with him yourself. And, despite the monumental obstacles these two lovers face, you’ll be rooting for a happy ending.

Max Mayer’s directorial debut stars Hugh Dancy, Rose Byrne, Peter Gallagher, Amy Irving, Frankie Faison. Also, written by Max Mayer. Produced by Leslie Urdang, Miranda de Pencier and Dean Vanech. Executive Producers are Christina Weiss-Lurie and Daniel Revers. An Olympus Pictures Production in association with Serenade Films, Dear Path Productions and VOX3 Films.

ADAM was acquired by Fox Searchlight for worldwide theatrical distribution. This is a terrific small film, therefore you may only have the pleasure of catching this at a cineplex if the two relatively unknown, but talented, leads breakout in a bigger film this year.

ADAM, directed by Max Mayer, received the Alfred P. Sloan Prize for 2009. The prize, which carries a $20,000 cash award to the filmmaker provided by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation, is presented to an outstanding feature film focusing on science or technology as a theme, or depicting a scientist, engineer, or mathematician as a major character.