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Film Maker's Blog
WITHOUTABOX UNVEILS NEW, REBRANDED AND EXPANDED WEBSITE
May 21, 2007 12:10PM
Online Media Company Launches Updated Site Offering
Extensive Suite of Online Tools Designed to Empower Filmmakers
in the Distribution and Monetization of their Films
LOS ANGELES, May 21, 2007 – Withoutabox, the worldwide online-media company dedicated to advancing independent film, has unveiled a new, rebranded website, offering an entire suite of online tools that empower filmmakers and other content creators in the distribution and monetization of their films. The site, located at www.withoutabox.com, features an array of proprietary tools and services for all parties involved in the independent film arena, ranging from aspiring and established filmmakers to film festival organizers, distributors, buyers, audiences and others.
Regarding the site, David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox said, “The independent film community needs a resource that can corral the powerful opportunities new technology brings to the table, and this is the specific reason why we created Withoutabox. By bringing independents together on our site, we provide our members and partners with completely integrated tools and services that greatly help to navigate the barrier-ridden film business, from production and distribution.”
The new site provides Withoutabox members with in-depth access to the company’s products and services through several actively themed sections:
SUBMIT
Featuring Withoutabox’s inaugural and patented product, Filmsubmission which enables filmmakers and screenwriters to efficiently submit their work to more than 2,000 festivals and competitions worldwide.
COLLECT
Targeted to film festival and competition organizers, the Filmcollection tool streamlines the process of announcing calls for entries to managing payment collection in five different currencies (U.S. Dollar, Euro, British Pound, Canadian Dollar and Australian Dollar) and administrating the entire process of receiving film submissions from Withoutabox’s 125,000-plus members in more than 200 countries.
SELECT
Filmselection, Withoutabox’s patented technology, allows festivals and competitions to operate their selection processes all online by using the company’s integrated online tools, including Filmcollection, to support the pre-screening and judging of titles from anywhere in the world, providing custom forms and providing quantitative reporting.
DELIVER
Through DVDelivery, provided in partnership with CustomFlix, Withoutabox members can order industry screeners to be shipped on-demand as part of the Filmsubmission process.
LICENSE
In its Rightsxchange service, Withoutabox holds the world’s largest revolving database of independent film to supply filmmakers, screenwriters, distributors and exhibitors with the most up-to-date business information.
Marketresearch, exclusively provided by the company’s Filmfinders division, delivers to sales agents, distributors and programmers the most authoritative data and market intelligence on independent film vis-à-vis Filmfinders’ renowned industry evaluations Preminders, Friday Reports, Rights Roundups and Quarterlies.
DISTRIBUTE
Selfdistribution places the power of distribution in the hands of Withoutabox members, providing the support to control their rights and self-distribute via theatrical, television, DVD, VOD and mobile.
TICKET
Withoutabox has designed two ticketing services for both members and festivals:
Festivalticketing provides one centralized scheduling and ticketing service for festival directors that is seamlessly integrated with the company’s Filmcollection, Filmselection and Audience products.
Through Withoutabox’s upcoming and patent-pending tool Criticalmassticketing, filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors soon will be able to pre-book theaters, market, aggregate audiences and sell tickets to screenings of their films.
PROMOTE
Filmpromotion assists filmmakers in the creation and management of comprehensive online press kits featuring media-rich trailers, photos, biographies, reviews and more to promote their films.
Through Festivalpromotion, festivals and competitions can advertise requests for submissions and market their events in weekly email blasts to Withoutabox’s membership, reaching the largest population of active filmmakers online.
CONSULT
Withoutabox provides premium access to Filmfinders’ rights tracking and personalized consulting on worldwide independent film.
As part of its mission to advance independent film, Withoutabox’s Distributionlab serves at the forefront of developing and creating cutting-edge distribution techniques and platforms. The company is constantly seeking filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors eager to identify new paths to profitability through Distributionlab and Withoutabox’s products.
BROWSE
Withoutabox’s Audience unites filmmakers, film festivals and other industry players together in a comprehensive business and social network charged to democratize independent film—while in Messageboards, filmmakers, festival directors, buyers and distributors share knowledge and discuss industry issues in a number of topical forums.
LOS ANGELES, May 21, 2007 – Withoutabox, the worldwide online-media company dedicated to advancing independent film, has unveiled a new, rebranded website, offering an entire suite of online tools that empower filmmakers and other content creators in the distribution and monetization of their films. The site, located at www.withoutabox.com, features an array of proprietary tools and services for all parties involved in the independent film arena, ranging from aspiring and established filmmakers to film festival organizers, distributors, buyers, audiences and others.
Regarding the site, David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox said, “The independent film community needs a resource that can corral the powerful opportunities new technology brings to the table, and this is the specific reason why we created Withoutabox. By bringing independents together on our site, we provide our members and partners with completely integrated tools and services that greatly help to navigate the barrier-ridden film business, from production and distribution.”
The new site provides Withoutabox members with in-depth access to the company’s products and services through several actively themed sections:
SUBMIT
Featuring Withoutabox’s inaugural and patented product, Filmsubmission which enables filmmakers and screenwriters to efficiently submit their work to more than 2,000 festivals and competitions worldwide.
COLLECT
Targeted to film festival and competition organizers, the Filmcollection tool streamlines the process of announcing calls for entries to managing payment collection in five different currencies (U.S. Dollar, Euro, British Pound, Canadian Dollar and Australian Dollar) and administrating the entire process of receiving film submissions from Withoutabox’s 125,000-plus members in more than 200 countries.
SELECT
Filmselection, Withoutabox’s patented technology, allows festivals and competitions to operate their selection processes all online by using the company’s integrated online tools, including Filmcollection, to support the pre-screening and judging of titles from anywhere in the world, providing custom forms and providing quantitative reporting.
DELIVER
Through DVDelivery, provided in partnership with CustomFlix, Withoutabox members can order industry screeners to be shipped on-demand as part of the Filmsubmission process.
LICENSE
In its Rightsxchange service, Withoutabox holds the world’s largest revolving database of independent film to supply filmmakers, screenwriters, distributors and exhibitors with the most up-to-date business information.
Marketresearch, exclusively provided by the company’s Filmfinders division, delivers to sales agents, distributors and programmers the most authoritative data and market intelligence on independent film vis-à-vis Filmfinders’ renowned industry evaluations Preminders, Friday Reports, Rights Roundups and Quarterlies.
DISTRIBUTE
Selfdistribution places the power of distribution in the hands of Withoutabox members, providing the support to control their rights and self-distribute via theatrical, television, DVD, VOD and mobile.
TICKET
Withoutabox has designed two ticketing services for both members and festivals:
Festivalticketing provides one centralized scheduling and ticketing service for festival directors that is seamlessly integrated with the company’s Filmcollection, Filmselection and Audience products.
Through Withoutabox’s upcoming and patent-pending tool Criticalmassticketing, filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors soon will be able to pre-book theaters, market, aggregate audiences and sell tickets to screenings of their films.
PROMOTE
Filmpromotion assists filmmakers in the creation and management of comprehensive online press kits featuring media-rich trailers, photos, biographies, reviews and more to promote their films.
Through Festivalpromotion, festivals and competitions can advertise requests for submissions and market their events in weekly email blasts to Withoutabox’s membership, reaching the largest population of active filmmakers online.
CONSULT
Withoutabox provides premium access to Filmfinders’ rights tracking and personalized consulting on worldwide independent film.
As part of its mission to advance independent film, Withoutabox’s Distributionlab serves at the forefront of developing and creating cutting-edge distribution techniques and platforms. The company is constantly seeking filmmakers, distributors and exhibitors eager to identify new paths to profitability through Distributionlab and Withoutabox’s products.
BROWSE
Withoutabox’s Audience unites filmmakers, film festivals and other industry players together in a comprehensive business and social network charged to democratize independent film—while in Messageboards, filmmakers, festival directors, buyers and distributors share knowledge and discuss industry issues in a number of topical forums.
WITHOUTABOX NAMED OFFICIAL HONOREE BY 11th ANNUAL WEBBY AWARDS
Apr 23, 2007 12:34PM
SECOND TIME NOMINATION RECOGNIZES THE ONLINE MEDIA COMPANY FOR ITS INNOVATIVE, ONLINE INTEGRATED SOLUTIONS THAT DEMOCRATIZE THE WORLD OF FILM
LOS ANGELES, April 23, 2007 – Withoutabox, Inc., the leading worldwide online media company dedicated to advancing independent film, has been named an Official Honoree by the 11th Annual Webby Awards. With this nomination, the Webby Awards recognizes Withoutabox in the Movie and Film Category for its "remarkable achievement" in offering an extensive array of online tools and services for more than 120,000 independent filmmakers and over 2000 film festivals across the globe.
Regarding the announcement, David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox, said, "This is truly wonderful. Being recognized by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences is a huge compliment and having the honor to be included with such fellow nominees as AOL, Warner Bros., Paramount, Columbia TriStar and the New York Times is a testament to all of the hard work done by everyone on Withoutabox's dedicated team."
"The Webby Awards honors the outstanding work that is setting new standards for the Internet," said David-Michel Davies, executive director of The Webby Awards. "Withoutabox's Official Honoree selection is a testament to the skill, ingenuity and vision of its creators."
Withoutabox patented and deployed the world's only International Film Submission System in 2000, serving film producers and film festivals, and since then has grown in its mission to democratize the independent film economy, by offering an entire suite of online tools: Audience, a social and business networking platform for filmmakers, film organizations, and fans of film; Festivalticketing, a fully integrated event scheduling and box office solution for festivals and cinemas; Criticalmassticketing, a patent-pending, demand-based theatrical releasing system for film; and Filmselection: a patented pre-screening and judging product for the industry. Withoutabox is currently expanding its offerings into multi-channel self-distribution and comprehensive film rights management.
This year's recognition marks the second Webby Award-nomination Withoutabox has received. In 2002, the Webby Awards nominated the company in the event's Film Category. Hailed as the "Oscars of the Internet" by the New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites, Interactive Advertising, Online Film & Video and Mobile Websites. The awards are judged by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences, a global organization that includes David Bowie, Harvey Weinstein, Arianna Huffington, Matt Groening, Jamie Oliver, Internet inventor Vinton Cerf and RealNetworks CEO Rob Glaser.
The 11th Annual Webby Awards received a record 8,000 entries from over 60 countries and all 50 states. Out more than 8,000 entries submitted, fewer than 15% received this honor and were deemed Official Honorees. Unlike other awards shows, where only judges choose the winners, The Webby Awards revels in the Web's democratic spirit. Through April 27th, members and non-members alike can cast their votes in The Webby People's Voice Awards presented by Verizon at www.peoplesvoice.webbyawards.com. Winners will be announced on May 1st and honored at two star-studded ceremonies in New York City: The Webby Film & Video Awards on June 4th and The 11th Annual Webby Awards Gala on June 5th.
LOS ANGELES, April 23, 2007 – Withoutabox, Inc., the leading worldwide online media company dedicated to advancing independent film, has been named an Official Honoree by the 11th Annual Webby Awards. With this nomination, the Webby Awards recognizes Withoutabox in the Movie and Film Category for its "remarkable achievement" in offering an extensive array of online tools and services for more than 120,000 independent filmmakers and over 2000 film festivals across the globe.
Regarding the announcement, David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox, said, "This is truly wonderful. Being recognized by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences is a huge compliment and having the honor to be included with such fellow nominees as AOL, Warner Bros., Paramount, Columbia TriStar and the New York Times is a testament to all of the hard work done by everyone on Withoutabox's dedicated team."
"The Webby Awards honors the outstanding work that is setting new standards for the Internet," said David-Michel Davies, executive director of The Webby Awards. "Withoutabox's Official Honoree selection is a testament to the skill, ingenuity and vision of its creators."
Withoutabox patented and deployed the world's only International Film Submission System in 2000, serving film producers and film festivals, and since then has grown in its mission to democratize the independent film economy, by offering an entire suite of online tools: Audience, a social and business networking platform for filmmakers, film organizations, and fans of film; Festivalticketing, a fully integrated event scheduling and box office solution for festivals and cinemas; Criticalmassticketing, a patent-pending, demand-based theatrical releasing system for film; and Filmselection: a patented pre-screening and judging product for the industry. Withoutabox is currently expanding its offerings into multi-channel self-distribution and comprehensive film rights management.
This year's recognition marks the second Webby Award-nomination Withoutabox has received. In 2002, the Webby Awards nominated the company in the event's Film Category. Hailed as the "Oscars of the Internet" by the New York Times, The Webby Awards is the leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet, including Websites, Interactive Advertising, Online Film & Video and Mobile Websites. The awards are judged by the International Academy of Digital Arts & Sciences, a global organization that includes David Bowie, Harvey Weinstein, Arianna Huffington, Matt Groening, Jamie Oliver, Internet inventor Vinton Cerf and RealNetworks CEO Rob Glaser.
The 11th Annual Webby Awards received a record 8,000 entries from over 60 countries and all 50 states. Out more than 8,000 entries submitted, fewer than 15% received this honor and were deemed Official Honorees. Unlike other awards shows, where only judges choose the winners, The Webby Awards revels in the Web's democratic spirit. Through April 27th, members and non-members alike can cast their votes in The Webby People's Voice Awards presented by Verizon at www.peoplesvoice.webbyawards.com. Winners will be announced on May 1st and honored at two star-studded ceremonies in New York City: The Webby Film & Video Awards on June 4th and The 11th Annual Webby Awards Gala on June 5th.
WITHOUTABOX PARTNERS WITH CANNES SHORT FILM CORNER
Apr 20, 2007 05:35PM
On April 9, 2007, Withoutabox and the Short Film Corner, a division of the Cannes Film Festival, the world’s foremost film festival and market, announced that we have entered into an exclusive partnership agreement for the festival’s Fourth Annual Short Film Corner. The announcement was jointly made today by David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox, and Jérôme Paillard, executive director for the Cannes Film Market.
Under terms of the agreement, Withoutabox will serve as an official partner to the Short Film Corner and will exclusively manage the event’s entire film registration process, including solicitation, management and promotion of films. Filmmakers registering films with the Short Film Corner will either use their existing Withoutabox control panel, or be directed to a branded, integrated website where they can follow Withoutabox’s easy-to-use and patented festival registration process. Filmmakers can also access this registration page from www.shortfilmcorner.com. Cannes organizers will be able to track, manage and program the Short Film Corner using Withoutabox’s services. All films registered for the event will be marketed on Audience, Withoutabox’s social networking community for independent filmmakers and other members of the film community. The agreement also includes online co-branding initiatives between the two parties that will be directed at Withoutabox’s membership of more than 110,000 filmmakers in 200 countries around the world. Withoutabox also will exhibit at the Short Film Corner.
Located in the Palais des Festivals and scheduled to take place from May 16th to 26th, the Short Film Corner provides event attendees with a central location to screen, market and sell short films, many never seen before, during the market. Short titles included in the Official Competition, the Cinéfondation, the Director’s Fortnight and Critic’s Week also will be screened in the Short Film Corner. In addition, daily panels will feature directors and producers discussing short film issues, including financing, emerging media and music, among other topics.
Regarding the announcement, Straus noted, “We are pleased, and honored, to be the exclusive registration representative for the Short Film Corner. This is the film industry’s most revered event, which falls in line with our mandate to present our growing number of members with the highest quality opportunities to showcase and sell their work. This arrangement, coupled with our many other services, makes Withoutabox the definitive online resource for independent filmmakers worldwide to finance, produce, market and distribute their films.”
“Withoutabox has been an industry leader for independent filmmakers for the last seven years,” said Paillard. “Their dedication to our event and independent film is unmatched by anyone in traditional media companies.”
Launched in 2004 by the Cannes Film Festival, the Short Film Corner is a ten-day-long short film market and meeting place for all innovative and creative filmmakers. Open to all the professionals registered with the Cannes Film Festival and the Marché du Film, it showcases their short films to potential buyers, festival programmers, producers and distributors. The Short Film Corner is also a great spot to discover new international filmmakers. To date, more than 540 films are already registered for the 2007 edition. For more information on the Short Film Corner, please visit http://www.shortfilmcorner.com.
Under terms of the agreement, Withoutabox will serve as an official partner to the Short Film Corner and will exclusively manage the event’s entire film registration process, including solicitation, management and promotion of films. Filmmakers registering films with the Short Film Corner will either use their existing Withoutabox control panel, or be directed to a branded, integrated website where they can follow Withoutabox’s easy-to-use and patented festival registration process. Filmmakers can also access this registration page from www.shortfilmcorner.com. Cannes organizers will be able to track, manage and program the Short Film Corner using Withoutabox’s services. All films registered for the event will be marketed on Audience, Withoutabox’s social networking community for independent filmmakers and other members of the film community. The agreement also includes online co-branding initiatives between the two parties that will be directed at Withoutabox’s membership of more than 110,000 filmmakers in 200 countries around the world. Withoutabox also will exhibit at the Short Film Corner.
Located in the Palais des Festivals and scheduled to take place from May 16th to 26th, the Short Film Corner provides event attendees with a central location to screen, market and sell short films, many never seen before, during the market. Short titles included in the Official Competition, the Cinéfondation, the Director’s Fortnight and Critic’s Week also will be screened in the Short Film Corner. In addition, daily panels will feature directors and producers discussing short film issues, including financing, emerging media and music, among other topics.
Regarding the announcement, Straus noted, “We are pleased, and honored, to be the exclusive registration representative for the Short Film Corner. This is the film industry’s most revered event, which falls in line with our mandate to present our growing number of members with the highest quality opportunities to showcase and sell their work. This arrangement, coupled with our many other services, makes Withoutabox the definitive online resource for independent filmmakers worldwide to finance, produce, market and distribute their films.”
“Withoutabox has been an industry leader for independent filmmakers for the last seven years,” said Paillard. “Their dedication to our event and independent film is unmatched by anyone in traditional media companies.”
Launched in 2004 by the Cannes Film Festival, the Short Film Corner is a ten-day-long short film market and meeting place for all innovative and creative filmmakers. Open to all the professionals registered with the Cannes Film Festival and the Marché du Film, it showcases their short films to potential buyers, festival programmers, producers and distributors. The Short Film Corner is also a great spot to discover new international filmmakers. To date, more than 540 films are already registered for the 2007 edition. For more information on the Short Film Corner, please visit http://www.shortfilmcorner.com.
WITHOUTABOX HONORED WITH SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD
Apr 20, 2007 05:22PM
On Sunday, March 25th, 2007, Withoutabox was honored with a Special Recognition Award at the 4th Annual San Fernando Valley International Film Festival. The award was presented during the Festival’s Gala Awards Dinner at Beverly Garland Hotel, and recognized Withoutabox’s unique contributions to the film festival industry.
“This award from the San Fernando Valley International Film Festival is a special distinction for us and one that we are very proud to accept,” said David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox. “Festivals like San Fernando Valley serve as a valuable doorway to success for filmmakers and everyone at Withoutabox is delighted to be involved with this increasingly important event.”
“Withoutabox has a long-standing reputation in the film industry as an organization dedicated to advancing exposure for films, filmmakers and film festivals,” said Randy Salter, president of the San Fernando Valley International Film Festival. “From the International Film Submission System, to their social networking environment, Audience, and new tools for Scheduling, Ticketing and Judging, Withoutabox is one of the most innovative technology companies in the film space and this is why we at the San Fernando Valley International Film Festival have decided honor Withoutabox with this special recognition.”
The San Fernando Valley International Film Festival (VIFFI) was established in 2003 to promote and encourage the endeavors of the international creative community in all genres of media by providing exposure to their productions and writings, in the form of a film festival. Since Universal Studios opened its doors in 1915, the San Fernando Valley has been home to the largest concentration of filmmakers in the world, making an international film festival in this area long overdue. VIFFI fulfills that need.
“This award from the San Fernando Valley International Film Festival is a special distinction for us and one that we are very proud to accept,” said David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox. “Festivals like San Fernando Valley serve as a valuable doorway to success for filmmakers and everyone at Withoutabox is delighted to be involved with this increasingly important event.”
“Withoutabox has a long-standing reputation in the film industry as an organization dedicated to advancing exposure for films, filmmakers and film festivals,” said Randy Salter, president of the San Fernando Valley International Film Festival. “From the International Film Submission System, to their social networking environment, Audience, and new tools for Scheduling, Ticketing and Judging, Withoutabox is one of the most innovative technology companies in the film space and this is why we at the San Fernando Valley International Film Festival have decided honor Withoutabox with this special recognition.”
The San Fernando Valley International Film Festival (VIFFI) was established in 2003 to promote and encourage the endeavors of the international creative community in all genres of media by providing exposure to their productions and writings, in the form of a film festival. Since Universal Studios opened its doors in 1915, the San Fernando Valley has been home to the largest concentration of filmmakers in the world, making an international film festival in this area long overdue. VIFFI fulfills that need.
WABEES GRAB OSCAR GOLD
Feb 27, 2007 04:43PM
Short in subject but vast in impact, Withoutabox films swept the short categories at the Academy Awards on Sunday.
Enormous congratulations to Ari Sandel's victorious Live Action Short, WEST BANK STORY; Torril Kove, Lise Fearnley and Marcy Page's winning Animated Short, THE DANISH POET; and THE BLOOD OF YINGZHOU DISTRICT, winning Documentary Short by Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon.
We are thrilled at your success and believe that it speaks volumes both about how far independent filmmakers have come, and how far you can go.
Enormous congratulations to Ari Sandel's victorious Live Action Short, WEST BANK STORY; Torril Kove, Lise Fearnley and Marcy Page's winning Animated Short, THE DANISH POET; and THE BLOOD OF YINGZHOU DISTRICT, winning Documentary Short by Ruby Yang and Thomas Lennon.
We are thrilled at your success and believe that it speaks volumes both about how far independent filmmakers have come, and how far you can go.
FOUR EYED MONSTERS' ANTI-VALENTINE RELEASE
Feb 13, 2007 05:50PM
After winning a Sundance Channel Audience Award, Withoutabox Distribution Lab film Four Eyed Monsters will be showing on the Sundance channel, in addition to being released in over 30 cities on Valentine's Day (booked with the help of their request screening widgets and Emerging Pictures). As if that wasn't enough, Arin and Susan are planning a live Q &A session on their website using Lance Weiler's FestMob application and AIM.
Check out FourEyedMonsters.com for more information.
To learn more about FestMob, check out Workbook Project or FestMob's Audience Page.
Check out FourEyedMonsters.com for more information.
To learn more about FestMob, check out Workbook Project or FestMob's Audience Page.
ANNOUNCING: FEST MOB LIVE FEEDS
Feb 08, 2007 04:45PM
Withoutabox is excited to present the Fest Mob live feed, to be covering the Berlinale Film Festival next week. Make sure to look at the Fest Mob Audience page to learn how to add your voice to this exciting project.
Do you have a site, blog or webpage? Then be sure to add your voice to the FEST MOB feed, and use the plug in feature to webcast live updates on the festival happenings.
Do you have a site, blog or webpage? Then be sure to add your voice to the FEST MOB feed, and use the plug in feature to webcast live updates on the festival happenings.
THE WORKBOOK PROJECT
Feb 02, 2007 01:29PM
Withoutabox is proud to sponsor The Workbook Project, a free "social open source" project that helps to bridge the gap between technology and filmmaking. With the tools that The Workbook Project provides, you can learn how to make open-source applications such as your own embeddable Flash audio player.
On the labtools Audience page The Workbook Project will be providing you with reviews, tips and tricks about how you can use technology to help build your project's audience.
For more info on the project visit their Audience page.
On the labtools Audience page The Workbook Project will be providing you with reviews, tips and tricks about how you can use technology to help build your project's audience.
For more info on the project visit their Audience page.
13 ACADEMY AWARD NOMINEES!
Jan 24, 2007 01:03PM
The Academy Awards have honored 13 Withoutabox films with the world's most prestigious nominations- what a way to kick off 2007!
Withoutabox filmmakers produced and/or directed 13 films which received nominations this morning for the Academy Awards in four categories, including Best Documentary Feature, Best Documentary Short Subject, Best Animated Short Subject, and Best Live Action Short.
“Our filmmakers are involved in many of the world’s most celebrated and acclaimed films and we are always thrilled with the recognition their work receives by Academy voters,” says David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox.
We wish all of our nominees the best of luck, and can’t wait to watch them take home the Oscar.
Withoutabox filmmakers produced and/or directed 13 films which received nominations this morning for the Academy Awards in four categories, including Best Documentary Feature, Best Documentary Short Subject, Best Animated Short Subject, and Best Live Action Short.
“Our filmmakers are involved in many of the world’s most celebrated and acclaimed films and we are always thrilled with the recognition their work receives by Academy voters,” says David Straus, co-founder and CEO of Withoutabox.
We wish all of our nominees the best of luck, and can’t wait to watch them take home the Oscar.
BEYOND THE CALL ON PBS
Jan 23, 2007 09:39AM
We're happy to report that Withoutabox film, Beyond the Call is airing nationwide on PBS tonight, January 23rd, as part of the series Independent Lens.
Beyond the Call is a documentary chronicling the adventures of three middle-aged former soldiers who travel the world delivering life saving humanitarian aid directly into the hands of civilians and doctors in some of the most dangerous places on Earth, the front lines of war.
Check local listings for the exact time in your area by clicking here, and be sure to visit their Audience page here to congratulate them.
Best wishes to Adrian Belic and his team!
Beyond the Call is a documentary chronicling the adventures of three middle-aged former soldiers who travel the world delivering life saving humanitarian aid directly into the hands of civilians and doctors in some of the most dangerous places on Earth, the front lines of war.
Check local listings for the exact time in your area by clicking here, and be sure to visit their Audience page here to congratulate them.
Best wishes to Adrian Belic and his team!
SCHEDULING: YOUR DATE WITH SUCCESS.
Jan 09, 2007 04:13PM
The newest marketing of Audience has launched! Our SCHEDULING and TICKETING features allow festivalgoers to buy tickets AND add your film to their personal schedule without ever leaving your film's screening page.
Does a sexy, buzzy Audience page sell tickets? Resoundingly: YES! With a full gallery, great quotes from previous screening, and a full complement of ratings and comments, your tell film fans: this is a film that demands to be seen.
Even more good news: now, you can import your press kit directly from your filmmaker page to your Audience page. As a one-stop marketing program and networking platform, AUDIENCE IS THE PLACE!
Want to know more? Please email saskia@withoutabox.com to learn how Audience--and its newest marketing features--can fill screenings for you.
Does a sexy, buzzy Audience page sell tickets? Resoundingly: YES! With a full gallery, great quotes from previous screening, and a full complement of ratings and comments, your tell film fans: this is a film that demands to be seen.
Even more good news: now, you can import your press kit directly from your filmmaker page to your Audience page. As a one-stop marketing program and networking platform, AUDIENCE IS THE PLACE!
Want to know more? Please email saskia@withoutabox.com to learn how Audience--and its newest marketing features--can fill screenings for you.
AND THE RESULTS ARE IN...
Dec 18, 2006 01:01PM
Four Withoutabox filmmakers are amongst the winners of this year's BIFA awards.
Sixteen of our filmmakers are amongst 2007's nominees for Film Independent's Spirit Awards.
Fifty-eight Withoutabox filmmakers have had their films accepted into 2007's Sundance Film Festival.
An amazing year, in short, for Withoutabox filmmakers, who are using the internet in unprecedented ways to promote their films, apply for festivals and get the buzz going. The digital revolution is going strong, and the industry is taking notice!
Sixteen of our filmmakers are amongst 2007's nominees for Film Independent's Spirit Awards.
Fifty-eight Withoutabox filmmakers have had their films accepted into 2007's Sundance Film Festival.
An amazing year, in short, for Withoutabox filmmakers, who are using the internet in unprecedented ways to promote their films, apply for festivals and get the buzz going. The digital revolution is going strong, and the industry is taking notice!
WITHOUTABOX DOC FILMMAKERS DOMINATE THE IDA AWARDS
Dec 13, 2006 01:37PM
The prestigious INTERNATIONAL DOCUMENTARY ASSOCIATION AWARDS (IDA)
just ended their 22nd annual event this past weekend and WABees left
quite an impression. Not only were 4 of the 5 Documentary Film
winners Withoutabox filmmakers, ALL 10 of the finalists in the
Documentary Feature and Short categories were WABees!
Bravo to Marcelo Bukin's ANGEL'S FIRE - Fuego de Angel (DOC SHORT AWARD Winner), Stanley Nelson's JONESTOWN: THE LIFE AND DEATH OF PEOPLES TEMPLE (IDA/ABCNEWS VIDEOSOURCE AWARD Winner) and Carrie Lozano's REPORTER ZERO (IDA/DAVID L. WOLPER STUDENT DOCUMENTARY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Winner).
An extra loud cheer for James Longley's IRAQ IN FRAGMENTS for not only winning the DOC FEATURE AWARD, but also for collecting various awards in the festival circuit throughout this year.
Bravo to Marcelo Bukin's ANGEL'S FIRE - Fuego de Angel (DOC SHORT AWARD Winner), Stanley Nelson's JONESTOWN: THE LIFE AND DEATH OF PEOPLES TEMPLE (IDA/ABCNEWS VIDEOSOURCE AWARD Winner) and Carrie Lozano's REPORTER ZERO (IDA/DAVID L. WOLPER STUDENT DOCUMENTARY ACHIEVEMENT AWARD Winner).
An extra loud cheer for James Longley's IRAQ IN FRAGMENTS for not only winning the DOC FEATURE AWARD, but also for collecting various awards in the festival circuit throughout this year.
FOUR EYED MONSTERS: TWO SPIRIT AWARDS NOMINATIONS!
Dec 11, 2006 03:57PM
Four Eyed Monsters- Withoutabox's inaugural Distribution Lab film- has
been nominated for two Independent Spirit Awards, including the
John Cassavetes Award and the Best Cinematography
Award. Our heartiest congratulations to Susan and Arin!
IFFS 2006 AT THE LUXOR IN LAS VEGAS
Dec 06, 2006 03:51PM
What a weekend! The Withoutabox staff migrated en masse to Las Vegas for the 2006 International Film Festival Summit, where David Straus (CEO) and Fred Kramer (General Manager) were slated to give a series of panels. Topics ranged from cutting-edge trends in digital distribution to Withoutabox's integrated festival management solutions-- introducing Withoutabox's exciting new ticketing and judging modules to an audience of over 100 film festival directors.
In the meantime, at the Withoutabox table, Sara Nixon-Kirschner (Festival Liaison Manager) and Blake Van Noy (Festival Liaison) were busy explaining the benefits of the system to the festival directors, who were by and large familiar and enthusiastic about our vision.
In the meantime, at the Withoutabox table, Sara Nixon-Kirschner (Festival Liaison Manager) and Blake Van Noy (Festival Liaison) were busy explaining the benefits of the system to the festival directors, who were by and large familiar and enthusiastic about our vision.
AUDIENCE MARKETING, SUPPORTING "BACK HOME"
Nov 28, 2006 02:58PM
Filmmaker J.B. Rutagarama escaped a likely death in the genocide of Rwanda when he was spirited away to America by journalists, leaving his family behind.
Mr. Rutagarama returned to Rwanda years later and documented the process, resulting in the documentary "Back Home". A member of AFI's prestigious 20/20 program, Mr. Rutagarama is using Audience to connect with his fans and post news of his travels. Keep an eye on his page for developments.
Mr. Rutagarama returned to Rwanda years later and documented the process, resulting in the documentary "Back Home". A member of AFI's prestigious 20/20 program, Mr. Rutagarama is using Audience to connect with his fans and post news of his travels. Keep an eye on his page for developments.
AFI FEST's 20/20 TAPS AUDIENCE
Nov 22, 2006 10:27AM
AFI's new 20/20 program fosters international cultural exchange and collaboration among filmmakers and people around the world.
Following screenings at this year's AFI FEST, 20/20 participants will have their films screened all over the world during the course of the coming year, and they'll be using Audience as their official feedback and press platform throughout. Some filmmakers, like Amie Williams, will be documenting their travels on video--and will share their video docs right on their Audience pages. Talk about keeping fans engaged! Check her Audience page to see what she's up to!
Following screenings at this year's AFI FEST, 20/20 participants will have their films screened all over the world during the course of the coming year, and they'll be using Audience as their official feedback and press platform throughout. Some filmmakers, like Amie Williams, will be documenting their travels on video--and will share their video docs right on their Audience pages. Talk about keeping fans engaged! Check her Audience page to see what she's up to!
AUDIENCE'S MARKETING TOOL? NO SWEAT SAYS AMIE WILLIAMS
Nov 07, 2006 11:01AM
In "No Sweat," filmmaker Amie Williams enters the bowels of that big pink building in downtown L.A. to find out what's really going on over at American Apparel, the t-shirt company with a pro-immigrant marketing campaign.
Ms. Williams is an indie filmmaker with plenty of chops- she has sold four films thus far to such esteemed media outlets as PBS and Cinema Guild. A recent convert to the potentials of Audience by Withoutabox, she is using her page to further her film's visibility through blogs, trailers, and photos, and to promote discussion about the issues surrounding "No Sweat".
Says Amie: "This film is notorious for starting arguments...so, blog on!"
Ms. Williams is an indie filmmaker with plenty of chops- she has sold four films thus far to such esteemed media outlets as PBS and Cinema Guild. A recent convert to the potentials of Audience by Withoutabox, she is using her page to further her film's visibility through blogs, trailers, and photos, and to promote discussion about the issues surrounding "No Sweat".
Says Amie: "This film is notorious for starting arguments...so, blog on!"
AND THE BEAT GOES ON...
Nov 06, 2006 01:02PM
In a cultural paradigm shift worthy of the most optimistic social soothsayers, legendary underground bad-girl drag performer Jackie Beat is now at the forefront of Hollywood festival circuit gossip.
Ms. Beat is the subject of a new documentary ("My Name is Jackie Beat"), directed by Randolph Mark Viverito. Screening this week at AFI FEST 2006 presented by Audi, Mr. Viverito, Ms. Beat and company have already begun spreading the word about their film- and their screenings- through their Audience page.
Go visit and post a nice comment, lest you face the wrath of Jackie!
Ms. Beat is the subject of a new documentary ("My Name is Jackie Beat"), directed by Randolph Mark Viverito. Screening this week at AFI FEST 2006 presented by Audi, Mr. Viverito, Ms. Beat and company have already begun spreading the word about their film- and their screenings- through their Audience page.
Go visit and post a nice comment, lest you face the wrath of Jackie!
AUDIENCE LAUNCHES AT AFI FEST 2006
Nov 03, 2006 11:35AM
AFI Fest 2006 started with a bang in its first full day yesterday! Withoutabox staffers were on the ground everywhere, working with filmmakers using Audience to network with fans. The Blog Bar in the main box office hall was abuzz with festivalgoers signing on and rating films--a vibey and vibrant scene.
At 6pm, Withoutabox feted AFI FEST filmmakers, the press, and other allies with a sponsored reception in the scenic Rooftop Village (who says L.A. has no views?). In all, a fierce and fabu kickoff of Audience at a big-league film fest.
Stay tuned for daily details!
At 6pm, Withoutabox feted AFI FEST filmmakers, the press, and other allies with a sponsored reception in the scenic Rooftop Village (who says L.A. has no views?). In all, a fierce and fabu kickoff of Audience at a big-league film fest.
Stay tuned for daily details!
BLOG BAR LAUNCHES AUDIENCE AT AFI FEST 2006
Oct 26, 2006 09:40AM
If you're in Los Angeles next week, please visit us at AFI Fest 2006!
This important festival has selected Audience as an official part of its marketing program this year, with every filmmaker benefiting from an embedded page.
Festivalgoers will reap the rewards of a full-featured informational page that lets them find out about the films they want to see, read the filmmakers' thoughts and communicate with other filmgoers. We'll be at the 4-computer Audience Blog Bar at the AFI FEST box office--so stop by, as we'd love to see you there.
This important festival has selected Audience as an official part of its marketing program this year, with every filmmaker benefiting from an embedded page.
Festivalgoers will reap the rewards of a full-featured informational page that lets them find out about the films they want to see, read the filmmakers' thoughts and communicate with other filmgoers. We'll be at the 4-computer Audience Blog Bar at the AFI FEST box office--so stop by, as we'd love to see you there.
THE SLANTED SCREEN PLAYS DOWNTOWN
Oct 09, 2006 12:45PM
Another WAB Distribution Lab success, Jeff Adachi's The Slanted Screen plays at the Laemmle's Theater Grande Four-Plex in downtown Los Angeles this weekend- starting on Friday the 13th of October.
THE SLANTED SCREEN: ASIAN MEN IN FILM & TELEVISION
Laemmle's Theater, Grande Four-Plex
345 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles
Here are the times & dates:
Fri (13 October): 5:45, 7:45, 9:45
Sat (14 October): 1:45, 3:45, 5:45, 7:45, 9:45
Sun (15 October): 1:45, 3:45, 5:45, 7:45, 9:45
Mon-Thu: 5:45, 7:45
This engaging documentary will be of interest to anyone who wants to know more about the history of film, and is well worth a look.
THE SLANTED SCREEN: ASIAN MEN IN FILM & TELEVISION
Laemmle's Theater, Grande Four-Plex
345 South Figueroa Street, Los Angeles
Here are the times & dates:
Fri (13 October): 5:45, 7:45, 9:45
Sat (14 October): 1:45, 3:45, 5:45, 7:45, 9:45
Sun (15 October): 1:45, 3:45, 5:45, 7:45, 9:45
Mon-Thu: 5:45, 7:45
This engaging documentary will be of interest to anyone who wants to know more about the history of film, and is well worth a look.
SLANTED SCREEN SPECIAL SCREENING
Oct 06, 2006 12:20PM
Last night marked the premiere of Withoutabox Distribution Lab
member Jeff Adachi's film THE SLANTED SCREEN at the 1000-seat Samuel Goldwyn Theater at the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills. The screening was preceded by a VIP reception, and immediately followed by a tribute to screen legend Mako and a panel discussion on the role of Asian-Americans in the mass media. Panelists included Screen Actors Guild President Allan Rosenberg, Casting Society of American President
Chemin Bernard, Producer Teddy Zee (Hitch, Pursuit of Happyness),
Director Henry Chan (King of Queens, Moesha), casting director Gary
Zuckerbrod (Pulp Fiction, The Nine), writer Weiko Lin, actor Parry
Shen (Better Luck Tomorrow), and George Sunga of the Producers Guild.
Reporters from broad-based media covered the event, including a crew from MTV.
The buzz was palapable, and with good reason: THE SLANTED SCREEN does what the best documentaries do, which is to propel thought and action. Congratulations to Jeff on this strong achievement and an evening of note.
WEST WITTERING AFFAIR: SCREENING SOON IN THE UK
Oct 03, 2006 04:33PM
The West Wittering Affair begins a 10-day release at the Chichester Cinema in England on the 13th of October, to be followed at The Rex Cinema in Berkhamstead beginning the 5th of November. This trenchant modern comedy of manners and romance is a winner. Check it out if you're in that neck of the woods.
Please be sure to visit their Audience page for more information on the screenings.
Please be sure to visit their Audience page for more information on the screenings.
CONGRATULATIONS TO "VIAGRA FALLS"!
Sep 26, 2006 01:05PM
On Sunday, September 17th, the New York Television Festival awarded the best drama award to Withoutabox film Viagra Falls-- one of only six films honored at the festival.
Our heartiest congratulations to director Brian Etting and to executive producers Christopher Debiec and Atil Singh.
(Pictured: Withoutabox member Christopher Debiec and Atil Singh, courtesy of Joel Keller)
Our heartiest congratulations to director Brian Etting and to executive producers Christopher Debiec and Atil Singh.
(Pictured: Withoutabox member Christopher Debiec and Atil Singh, courtesy of Joel Keller)
WITHOUTABOX HONORED AT TEMECULA
Sep 18, 2006 02:21PM
Last night, Withoutabox founders David Straus and Joe Neulight were honored with the Mayor's Visionary Award at the closing ceremonies for the 12th Annual Temecula Valley International Film and Music Festival. Past honorees of this award have included the American Film Institute, Kodak, and USC.
Other honorees at this year's Festival included singer Dionne Warwick, actors Hector Elizondo, Dennis Haysbert, and composer/editor John Ottman.
Hearty congratulations to Joe and David on this much-deserved award.
AUDIENCE TAKES "MONK" TO NEW HIGH--IN THE HIMALAYAS!
Aug 28, 2006 10:42AM
Bindiya Murgai, director of Monk from Komik, shared this lovely note about the premiere of her film at the monastery in Spiti, India, high in the Himalyas. Her writing is so spirited and heartfelt--and such a wondrous reflection of how filmmakers everywhere are seizing the reins of distribution--that we're "printing" it in its entirety.
By the way, please do visit the Audience page for MONK FROM KOMIK for a beautiful illustration of how this platform can build a bona fide fan base and "start the spark" for you. Here is Bindiya's note. (Raj, by the way, is the producer at Blue Mango Films):
Allow me tell you about the premiere in the Himalayas. It went really well and there were 3 of them that happened, instead of just one! It’s just how things work there.
We reached Spiti and headed for Komik where the lamas were really excited and waiting for us to arrive. We reached 3 days later than anticipated, as there are only two entries into Spiti—each of them amazingly and equally treacherous at any time of the year. In the winter one has to drive through walls and walls of snow with almost no road in sight, and surprise blizzards at speeds that are high enough to blow a vehicle off into the deep valleys that line the track. In the summer and monsoon, the roads become equally hazardous with flash floods, landslides and mudslides washing away chunks of the road, and boulders tumbling before and often on top of vehicles, throwing them into the valleys below. We had to experience the latter, and after 2 days of travel, just when we were 30 kilometers away from Spiti, there was a huge flashflood causing landslides due to which the entire road had caved in and there was no option but to turn back and backtrack into the state of Himachal Pradesh—to make our way in from the other side. This took us another two and a half days and what would have been a 2 hours journey from that point became close to a 67 hour one. But somehow that’s part of the beauty of going to Spiti—it’s always so amazingly unpredictable from the word go.
When we finally reached, our friend, Lama Chemmit was waiting for us in Kaza—apparently for 3 days! There are is no mobile network in Spiti and phones are hard to find or get through to, so there was no way to contact him and tell him about the delay.
We were really happy to see him, as was he to see us. We spent the night in Kaza and headed to the Komik monastery the next day. Unfortunately the young kids (junior monks) had gone home for the annual vacation and we missed them terribly. But the enthusiasm of the lamas made up for their absence.
We had the very first premiere of the film for the monks at the Komik monastery. As the film is in English, we did a “live” Hindi voiceover for the lamas, who sat spellbound and watched the film in silence. They were truly captivated and did not look up even once. They did however burst into giggles each time one of their fellow lamas came in the frame, and the lama in question looked embarrassed at being teased.
Both Raj and I were in tears—as we had been waiting for this moment for such a long time—and just being back here seemed strangely like coming home. The familiar smell of butter tea lingering heavily in every room, the fresh rarefied air, the sounds of the prayer room--- chants, cymbals, the gongs, the extreme silence outside, where the only thing that breaks the sound of ones breath is the gentle fluttering of prayer flags.
As soon as the film was over the lamas got up, each of them expressing their happiness and sheer delight at watching their monastery and fellow lamas. They though their monastery looked more beautiful than they ever thought it to be, and voiced how they were perhaps “too used to” the beauty around them and that the film made them see it afresh. Finally it was Lama Karzan’s turn to get teased and they also called him “hero” in jest. He was really embarrassed and blushed his way in to the kitchen to get tea organized for everyone.
Soon after that, both Raj and I were requested to step out as the Head Lama, who had mysteriously vanished for sometime, was waiting outside for us. When we went out, we were felicitated with the traditional Buddhist safa (a special hand-woven white silken scarf-like cloth, used to honour people. We were then given especially woven woolen shawls that had been made for us in the Komik village. That was followed by a sacred hanging for the car---to keep us safe. And finally, we were gifted a beautiful metal statue of the most powerful protecting deity in Buddhism—Goddess Tara. It was a very touching moment, and a few treacherous tears finally escaped my eyes.
The next day there was another screening in Kaza and many other lamas from neighboring monasteries also attended. The simplicity of their responses, the sheer delight and pride in having something from their region and lives showcased—is so beautiful and pure, that it touches ones heart in ways that one can only imagine by experiencing it. Post the screening the first two DVDs of the film were purchased by two Indian- American tourists, both of whom were present during the screening and were very moved by the film. Natasha, a middle school teacher, said she was buying the DVD especially to show it to her students in Washington D.C. While Tamara, a University professor in Ann Harbor said she wanted to having a private screening of the film for all her friends back home.
Finally there was a free screening for public at the local theatre but since it could house only 20 people, things started to get out of control as everyone was trying to get in. This time also coincided with the annual Spiti fair and therefore everyone has converged into Spiti and the crowd could get at quite unruly after a few shots of the local home brewed liquor. So the theater owner offered a great solution ---the village cable guy! He was more than willing to oblige and though only the more prosperous people in a handful of villages have cable, people were very happy that was would be aired on their local TV sets. They made plans to meet at “the rich relative’s” house ---which would in all probability include endless cups of free tea & food, and everyone was happy at the end. Some made loud promises of donating money to Komik and buying the DVD—profits from which will be donated to the Komik monastery. It was all great fun. However, the funding that gets generated remains to be seen! All in all, we could not have asked for a better premiere in the Himalayas. Now we are all set for the ‘big’ one in Delhi—with 600 people. Happening soon on 5th September 2006. Shall send you an invite soon!!
"JUKEBOX" SUBMITTED FOR GRAMMY NOD!
Aug 22, 2006 12:48PM
Great news from JUKEBOX: VANISHING AMERICA producer Lance Miccio. The soundtrack for his short film has been chosen by the Rhode Island International Film Festival for submission to the National Academy of Recording Arts & Sciences' Grammy Awards Committee for Best Score. This is possible through a special (and exlusive) agreement between the RIIFF and the Grammy Awards' nominating commitee. Kudos, Lance!
HONORS FOR "TOMORROW". . .TODAY!
Aug 17, 2006 11:30AM
Big up to Frederic Lumiere, whose film TOMORROW IS TODAY just won the Directorial Discovery Award at the Rhode Island International Film Festival!
The film was also nominated in the Best Feature and Best Cinematography categories. A "Providential" festival for Frederic and company, indeed. Congrats, congrats!
"MONK" SCORES A FIRST IN INDIA!
Aug 16, 2006 11:18AM
"Monk from Komik," a film selected for The Distribution Lab, not only has one of our most-visited Audience pages, but has just become the first film ever chosen for cell phone videoclips and wallpaper downloads in India. A screening of this film, which benefits the Komik monastery in the Himalayas, takes place on August 20 at the monastery. Raj and Bindiya, the producer and filmmaker of this moving and visually stunning documentary, are using Audience to garner attention among supporters and the press--and to further the cause of keeping this important spiritual center alive. Best wishes for a very successful screening on Sunday!
HAMILTON TAKES MANHATTAN
Aug 11, 2006 01:27PM
Congratulations to member Matthew Porterfield, whose film HAMILTON begins a one week-run tonight at the Anthology Film Archives in New York's East Village. Even bigger kudos for the rave review the film received in The New Yorker, one of the country's most prestigious media outlets. Great going, Matt! (And if you're in NY, by all means check out this very moving work.)
SCREEN INTERNATIONAL STORY
Aug 09, 2006 10:43AM
The leading international film industry magazine, Screen International, featured Withoutabox prominently in a story in their August 4 issue. The article, devoted to the digital media's role as important new distribution conduits for independent film, also mentioned our networking platform. (Yes, that would be Audience, friends.) More Withoutabox media breaks as they occur!
FUTURE PERFECT
Jul 28, 2006 12:10PM
It's one thing to win an award--VISUAL FUTURIST just won the Audience Award for Best Documentary at Dances with Films. It's another to win with THE HIGHEST AUDIENCE RATING IN A FESTIVAL'S HISTORY, and that's what Joaquin Montalvan's film just did. The audience rated it a 4.9 out of 5.0--a festival first.
Congratulations to Joaquin on this huge honor!
PERFECT "VISION"
Jul 24, 2006 06:16PM
A full house for a Sunday afternoon summer screening? When you put Audience in your arsenal, even this is possible! Proof positive: the Dances with Films screening of Joaquin Montalvan's VISUAL FUTURIST at the classic Laemmle's Fairfax Theater. A generous house was wowed by the unheralded arrival of recent White House honoree Syd Mead. The subject of the documentary, Mr. Mead is a legendary designer whose work includes many of the concepts forBlade Runner and Tron. A spirited Q&A followed. Why the packed house? Joaquin turns out to be something of a futurist himself. He wisely seized on the themes of the film--design, local lore, movie history--and sent his Audience page to groups involved in all three. A Cuban American, he also gave interviews to major Hispanic online media. A maven marketer? You bet! Congrats to Joaquin on this successful screening of his film, which looked awesome on the big screen.
"CHALK" UP A BIG SUCCESS. . .
Jul 07, 2006 11:26AM
. . .for a Withoutabox member! "CHALK," a full-length feature
narrative directed by Mike Akel, won a special jury award as
Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble Cast. Hearty congratulations!
We caught up with producer Angie Alvarez, who called this "a wonderful
opportunity for our film. When you play LAFF, international festivals
start contacting you; we're also confirmed for Woodstock and Austin,
with fingers crossed for Toronto." The press picked up on "CHALK,"
too: the Los Angeles Times, Hollywood Reporter, and other media sang
the film's praises. Mike, Angie, everyone involved with "CHALK": good
going, all!
Dr. Don's Latest LAFF Blog:
Jun 28, 2006 04:07PM
June 26:
I loved the Filmmakers Reception tonight. Cool friendly crowd, no door drama, excellent food (as always at the W Hotel) --- scrumptious sushi, roast beef on cheesey crackers, and more) -- plus open bar, and Mr. Ford. Yes, host Harrison was in the house, in the flesh, and gave a fun yet impactful (is that a word?) speech. He seemed to enjoy the chance to advise the young filmmakers present, almost as if he was giving a mini graduation speech. Highlights (paraphrasing here): you can read books and read how other people succeeded, but you need to find your own way... and: you don't need to read Daily Variety - the weekly version is enough... and a few other Fordisms. And then, all too soon, he was done. About as quick as the Gettysburg Address, and, in this milieu, perhaps just as inspiring. It really was a perfect speech for the event, and I am sure it inspired a few budding auteurs in attendance.
Back to the party-recap: there were hand massages for guests (courtesy of the W's new Bliss spa, recently opened), and giftbags for all, with DVDs, t-shirt, Pop Secret popcorn (it's taking over Westwood, I tell you!), and more. Celebs in attendance included one of my favorite comic actors, Jeff Garlin (who has a film in the fest, something about wanting to find someone to eat cheese with, and admit it, what guy doesn't want a woman like that); he is so damn good in "Curb Your Enthusiasm", I would probably pay to see him improv on lines from the phonebook (as long as Larry David was there arguing with him at the same time).
One final moment of note: about midway during the party, as I walked through the crowded pool area, I got to the steps, where someone's hand jets out and the woman who owned the hand tells me to please stop or vere left (paraphrasing), and as I go down a step to avoid the hand I look up and it was Harrison and his posse walking to the stage. Okay, so now the hand thing made sense -- and as I looked up from my lower step, I almost felt compelled to bow in reverence, I mean I do admire the guy and his work. And after all, I was the one who blinked during the hand showdown. I also wanted to thank Harrison for so many great movies that brought joy over the years. But it was just too many thoughts packed into one sec, and then... as he passes me... he makes this perfect utterance, a nonword that still was perfectly clear, which nonverbally said, "sorry for that hand thing, I can't believe she did that, my posse parade wasn't supposed to be a big deal", etc. All in a split second this happens. My point is not that Ford was even cooler in my mind for doing that (he was), but rather that it is so wonderful how some moments in life are packed with a million meanings - some trivial, some wonderful, some even life-changing. One of the side effects of our evolution is that our brains can so thoroughly tease apart a memory after the fact, like a hard knot that can be teased into a yard of yarn, if you pull and pick enough. In short, even little trivial nanoseconds can elevate or elate or elongate our grey matter in ways that matter. I really dig that. So... thanks, Harrison.
# # #
Don Rose is the Editor and Head Writer of "The LA Report" (www.thelareport.com). He may be reached at
ddrose@aol.com.
I loved the Filmmakers Reception tonight. Cool friendly crowd, no door drama, excellent food (as always at the W Hotel) --- scrumptious sushi, roast beef on cheesey crackers, and more) -- plus open bar, and Mr. Ford. Yes, host Harrison was in the house, in the flesh, and gave a fun yet impactful (is that a word?) speech. He seemed to enjoy the chance to advise the young filmmakers present, almost as if he was giving a mini graduation speech. Highlights (paraphrasing here): you can read books and read how other people succeeded, but you need to find your own way... and: you don't need to read Daily Variety - the weekly version is enough... and a few other Fordisms. And then, all too soon, he was done. About as quick as the Gettysburg Address, and, in this milieu, perhaps just as inspiring. It really was a perfect speech for the event, and I am sure it inspired a few budding auteurs in attendance.
Back to the party-recap: there were hand massages for guests (courtesy of the W's new Bliss spa, recently opened), and giftbags for all, with DVDs, t-shirt, Pop Secret popcorn (it's taking over Westwood, I tell you!), and more. Celebs in attendance included one of my favorite comic actors, Jeff Garlin (who has a film in the fest, something about wanting to find someone to eat cheese with, and admit it, what guy doesn't want a woman like that); he is so damn good in "Curb Your Enthusiasm", I would probably pay to see him improv on lines from the phonebook (as long as Larry David was there arguing with him at the same time).
One final moment of note: about midway during the party, as I walked through the crowded pool area, I got to the steps, where someone's hand jets out and the woman who owned the hand tells me to please stop or vere left (paraphrasing), and as I go down a step to avoid the hand I look up and it was Harrison and his posse walking to the stage. Okay, so now the hand thing made sense -- and as I looked up from my lower step, I almost felt compelled to bow in reverence, I mean I do admire the guy and his work. And after all, I was the one who blinked during the hand showdown. I also wanted to thank Harrison for so many great movies that brought joy over the years. But it was just too many thoughts packed into one sec, and then... as he passes me... he makes this perfect utterance, a nonword that still was perfectly clear, which nonverbally said, "sorry for that hand thing, I can't believe she did that, my posse parade wasn't supposed to be a big deal", etc. All in a split second this happens. My point is not that Ford was even cooler in my mind for doing that (he was), but rather that it is so wonderful how some moments in life are packed with a million meanings - some trivial, some wonderful, some even life-changing. One of the side effects of our evolution is that our brains can so thoroughly tease apart a memory after the fact, like a hard knot that can be teased into a yard of yarn, if you pull and pick enough. In short, even little trivial nanoseconds can elevate or elate or elongate our grey matter in ways that matter. I really dig that. So... thanks, Harrison.
# # #
Don Rose is the Editor and Head Writer of "The LA Report" (www.thelareport.com). He may be reached at
ddrose@aol.com.
Dr. Don's LAFF Blog:
Jun 28, 2006 04:02PM
Notes from the LA Film Festival 2006
(or, Magical Moments and Moving Musings about Movie Mavens and More)
by Dr. Don Rose
June 25:
Could not get into the Geffen screenwriter talk (too crowded!) OR the talk at the Hammer (too many people!). There are more people in Westwood this week than I can remember. It was so crowded, I almost felt like barging into the overflow Hammer audience and yelling "Soylent Green is people! It's PEOPLE!" - but I didn't want to see half the audience get brain freeze from not getting the reference.
The notes in the LAFF guidebook said the Hammer talk was about all the films that are made every year but we never get to see (I believe the stats are: only 400-500 of the 2000 films made each year get to our eyeballs). A shame. And a shame I couldn't get in, but kudos to the fest for being so damn popular. LAFF truly has taken over Westwood Village (especially Pop Secret, their popcorn is everywhere, and their toppings are tops). The fest has almost made the Village cool again, like its glory days of the 80's.
What I DID attend was the enjoyable PORCH PARTY schmoozefest at the Hammer (this museum, by the way, is FREE all summer, so go scan a Van Gogh as well as their current surrealist exhibit, Dada-oh). The Porch Party featured delectable nibbles - potatoes topped with chicken, chips/dip, amazing coconut cream pies (which, if you ate 41 of them, just about equaled a pie) - plus an open bar sponsored by Absolut, and a cool DJ. The highlight for me: meeting the filmmakers of "The Beach Party at the Threshold of Hell" (see my June 23 blog entry); friendly folks, who reminded me that their film's subtitle is "The History of New America, Part 1" -- which hopefully hints at the possibility of a sequel.
Then I was invited to Tengu for the SAG party, where attendees included Robert "Airplane!" Hays, Elliot "MASH!" Gould, Jason "Earl" Lee, and Lou Diamond "that guy from La Bamba" Phillips. The food featured various varieties of sushi, and a tempura appetizer that was like a Big O for your mOuth. Absolut drinks: gratis. The place was packed. Great energy, but the thickness of the throng led me to stand in one spot most of the time, since I hate saying "excuse me" more than 22 times at one party. Fortunately, this nonmovement enabled me to meet two sweet ladies - one from that no-formula-is-our-formula radio station JACK FM, the other from a talent management firm.
I then opted for some appetizers of the celluloid variety. Of the shorts I took in, one of the best was a film by Jacques T. of Filmmakers Alliance, who directed "Transaction" (before sex, the camera only shows the nervous client, as smalltalk ensues between this john and his hooker in a hotelroom; after sex, the camera shows only the hooker, till film's end -- an interesting use of camera, perhaps showing us who is feeling the most emotional, the most vulnerable, at each point of this transaction). Another highlight: Samsung Mobile's film "Across the Hall", a Hitchcockian suspense short starring Adrian "Entourage" Greiner, made for the "very small screen" -- i.e., our cellphones (most of the dialogue takes place via cell).
Finally, it was back to Tengu for the party celebrating "The Boys' and Girls' Guide to Getting Down" (feature - 2006 - 88 min.). Wild bash, wacky outfits and wanton dancing, with moves of every stripe (what, no watusi? why?). I asked director/screenwriter Paul Sapiano why he made this film (about the LA club scene); he told me he wanted to prove to his "mum" that his past 15 years of partying was not for nothing. Yes, filmmaking CAN help put order on our lives -- for the viewer, AND, sometimes, even for the man behind the camera.
Final note: you gotta try out this company, Archer Farms. Their snacks and drinks in the Target Red Room (lounge for passholders and filmmakers) were simply amazing - from their chai ice teas and energy drinks (that actually taste good) to their parmesan-garlic potato chips and white chocolate macadamia cookies. Nothing but home runs.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don Rose is the Editor and Head Writer of "The LA Report" (www.thelareport.com). He may be reached at
ddrose@aol.com.
(or, Magical Moments and Moving Musings about Movie Mavens and More)
by Dr. Don Rose
June 25:
Could not get into the Geffen screenwriter talk (too crowded!) OR the talk at the Hammer (too many people!). There are more people in Westwood this week than I can remember. It was so crowded, I almost felt like barging into the overflow Hammer audience and yelling "Soylent Green is people! It's PEOPLE!" - but I didn't want to see half the audience get brain freeze from not getting the reference.
The notes in the LAFF guidebook said the Hammer talk was about all the films that are made every year but we never get to see (I believe the stats are: only 400-500 of the 2000 films made each year get to our eyeballs). A shame. And a shame I couldn't get in, but kudos to the fest for being so damn popular. LAFF truly has taken over Westwood Village (especially Pop Secret, their popcorn is everywhere, and their toppings are tops). The fest has almost made the Village cool again, like its glory days of the 80's.
What I DID attend was the enjoyable PORCH PARTY schmoozefest at the Hammer (this museum, by the way, is FREE all summer, so go scan a Van Gogh as well as their current surrealist exhibit, Dada-oh). The Porch Party featured delectable nibbles - potatoes topped with chicken, chips/dip, amazing coconut cream pies (which, if you ate 41 of them, just about equaled a pie) - plus an open bar sponsored by Absolut, and a cool DJ. The highlight for me: meeting the filmmakers of "The Beach Party at the Threshold of Hell" (see my June 23 blog entry); friendly folks, who reminded me that their film's subtitle is "The History of New America, Part 1" -- which hopefully hints at the possibility of a sequel.
Then I was invited to Tengu for the SAG party, where attendees included Robert "Airplane!" Hays, Elliot "MASH!" Gould, Jason "Earl" Lee, and Lou Diamond "that guy from La Bamba" Phillips. The food featured various varieties of sushi, and a tempura appetizer that was like a Big O for your mOuth. Absolut drinks: gratis. The place was packed. Great energy, but the thickness of the throng led me to stand in one spot most of the time, since I hate saying "excuse me" more than 22 times at one party. Fortunately, this nonmovement enabled me to meet two sweet ladies - one from that no-formula-is-our-formula radio station JACK FM, the other from a talent management firm.
I then opted for some appetizers of the celluloid variety. Of the shorts I took in, one of the best was a film by Jacques T. of Filmmakers Alliance, who directed "Transaction" (before sex, the camera only shows the nervous client, as smalltalk ensues between this john and his hooker in a hotelroom; after sex, the camera shows only the hooker, till film's end -- an interesting use of camera, perhaps showing us who is feeling the most emotional, the most vulnerable, at each point of this transaction). Another highlight: Samsung Mobile's film "Across the Hall", a Hitchcockian suspense short starring Adrian "Entourage" Greiner, made for the "very small screen" -- i.e., our cellphones (most of the dialogue takes place via cell).
Finally, it was back to Tengu for the party celebrating "The Boys' and Girls' Guide to Getting Down" (feature - 2006 - 88 min.). Wild bash, wacky outfits and wanton dancing, with moves of every stripe (what, no watusi? why?). I asked director/screenwriter Paul Sapiano why he made this film (about the LA club scene); he told me he wanted to prove to his "mum" that his past 15 years of partying was not for nothing. Yes, filmmaking CAN help put order on our lives -- for the viewer, AND, sometimes, even for the man behind the camera.
Final note: you gotta try out this company, Archer Farms. Their snacks and drinks in the Target Red Room (lounge for passholders and filmmakers) were simply amazing - from their chai ice teas and energy drinks (that actually taste good) to their parmesan-garlic potato chips and white chocolate macadamia cookies. Nothing but home runs.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Don Rose is the Editor and Head Writer of "The LA Report" (www.thelareport.com). He may be reached at
ddrose@aol.com.
Don Rose's Los Angeles Film Festival Report
Jun 27, 2006 01:48AM
June 23:
The midnight feature at the Crest Theatre was a wonderfully quirky offbeat film called, take a deep breath now -- "The Beach Party on the Threshold of Hell". If I had to put it in one line, imagine a "History Channel mockumentary of the future, on acid", with scifi-futuristic-nihilistic elements and robots and even a bit of animation and gore thrown in. But that's why I liked it; despite a nonperfect plot, it was so offbeat and creative, with excellent acting, that I couldn't help but enjoy the ride. The audience agreed. Outside, after the screening, I spotted actor Jason Ritter having a ciggie. The filmmakers/actors graciously hung around into the wee hours answering questions.
June 24:
The premiere of the documentary "Who Killed the Electric Car?", directed by Chris Paine, co-produced by Dean "Independence Day" Devlin, narrated by Martin Sheen, with appearances by Ed Begley, Jr. ("the electric car is not for everyone... only 90 percent of the people") and automaker insiders. Why was GM's EV1 not only taken off the road, but destroyed - literally crushed - crushing its avid users' hearts in the process? Was it Big Oil? Certainly today's gas prices make electric and other technologies more important than ever, and very cleverly the folks behind the film (which got a standing ovation) put on an excellent afterevent next door to the Regent Theatre for all to enjoy, a Green Fair. This expo featured over a dozen exhibitors, including Laurie David's stopglobalwarming.com organization (talking up Al Gore's new doc "An Inconvenient Truth"), plus electric/hybrid vehicle makers, as well as LA Film Fest sponsor Whole Foods and many other fine folks raising our collective consciousness. Celebs in attendance included actors Allison Janney (from "The West Wing") and Peter Horton (who may no longer be "thirtysomething" but still looks great), plus Devlin, Paine, and the film's producers. Overall, a wonderful, fun and uplifting afternoon.
Don Rose
Editor In Chief, The LA Report www.thelareport.com
The midnight feature at the Crest Theatre was a wonderfully quirky offbeat film called, take a deep breath now -- "The Beach Party on the Threshold of Hell". If I had to put it in one line, imagine a "History Channel mockumentary of the future, on acid", with scifi-futuristic-nihilistic elements and robots and even a bit of animation and gore thrown in. But that's why I liked it; despite a nonperfect plot, it was so offbeat and creative, with excellent acting, that I couldn't help but enjoy the ride. The audience agreed. Outside, after the screening, I spotted actor Jason Ritter having a ciggie. The filmmakers/actors graciously hung around into the wee hours answering questions.
June 24:
The premiere of the documentary "Who Killed the Electric Car?", directed by Chris Paine, co-produced by Dean "Independence Day" Devlin, narrated by Martin Sheen, with appearances by Ed Begley, Jr. ("the electric car is not for everyone... only 90 percent of the people") and automaker insiders. Why was GM's EV1 not only taken off the road, but destroyed - literally crushed - crushing its avid users' hearts in the process? Was it Big Oil? Certainly today's gas prices make electric and other technologies more important than ever, and very cleverly the folks behind the film (which got a standing ovation) put on an excellent afterevent next door to the Regent Theatre for all to enjoy, a Green Fair. This expo featured over a dozen exhibitors, including Laurie David's stopglobalwarming.com organization (talking up Al Gore's new doc "An Inconvenient Truth"), plus electric/hybrid vehicle makers, as well as LA Film Fest sponsor Whole Foods and many other fine folks raising our collective consciousness. Celebs in attendance included actors Allison Janney (from "The West Wing") and Peter Horton (who may no longer be "thirtysomething" but still looks great), plus Devlin, Paine, and the film's producers. Overall, a wonderful, fun and uplifting afternoon.
Don Rose
Editor In Chief, The LA Report www.thelareport.com
AUDIENCE: GET THERE FROM HERE!
Jun 20, 2006 05:24PM
Withoutabox member Joaquin Montalvan, director of VISUAL FUTURIST: the art & life of syd mead, wrote in to sing the praises of Audience. We picked up the phone and talked to this Pasadena-based filmmaker to find out more.
"This is what I was waiting for!" Joaquin told us. "I felt like I had the atomic bomb but nobody knew about it. (The man speaks metaphorically, of course!) I could see that Audience could get my film noticed in a way that other sites couldn't.
Frankly, I'd explored every avenue," he continued. But in the world of independent film, Withoutabox is the voice of authority, and it speaks directly to filmmakers, audiences into serious film, and to the industry.
I do use myspace.com," Joaquin said, "but only as a hallway to Audience. Your page has the complete functionality I need to market my film and make it known."
Indeed, Joaquin is doing some pretty impressive marketing, while waiting to hear from some major film festivals. "Given the nature of this film, there are several important target markets--it's about the film industry, about technology in film, and about futurism and design, and I want to set up special screenings for these constituent groups to give my film the exposure it deserves."
"This is what I was waiting for!" Joaquin told us. "I felt like I had the atomic bomb but nobody knew about it. (The man speaks metaphorically, of course!) I could see that Audience could get my film noticed in a way that other sites couldn't.
Frankly, I'd explored every avenue," he continued. But in the world of independent film, Withoutabox is the voice of authority, and it speaks directly to filmmakers, audiences into serious film, and to the industry.
I do use myspace.com," Joaquin said, "but only as a hallway to Audience. Your page has the complete functionality I need to market my film and make it known."
Indeed, Joaquin is doing some pretty impressive marketing, while waiting to hear from some major film festivals. "Given the nature of this film, there are several important target markets--it's about the film industry, about technology in film, and about futurism and design, and I want to set up special screenings for these constituent groups to give my film the exposure it deserves."
GUEST BLOGGER - CHRISTINA KOTLAR - Gives us the news on SILVERDOCS
Jun 16, 2006 10:10AM
SILVERDOCS DAY 2 - Thursday, June 15
This morning I went to the 11a.m. film, Guerrilla Girl, an intimate look at a 21 year old women’s decision to become a guerilla soldier with the revolutionary People’s Army FARC in Colombia. Although they are taught survival and combatant skills, the film captures their desire for a semblance of the normal life they left behind – such as salsa dancing under the night sky – while always on the move, ready for battle. After a couple of outspoken remarks from the audience, director Frank Piasecki Poulsen provided additional information about the making of this candid view during the three shooting months in the Amazon. Later in the Cinema Lounge, I interviewed Poulsen about his work (that was in competition for the Sterling and Audience Awards), future projects and traveling the festival circuit to promote the film.
The afternoon zipped by quickly because of the anticipated keynote address by former Vice President Al Gore promoting CurrentTV, his media venture where filmmakers are welcome to submit their short documentaries and An Inconvenient Truth, a documentary about global warming. Alternately direct and witty with a bite, Gore spent quite a bit of time extolling the reaffirmation of democracy through current digital media vehicles “ to engage and recreate a marketplace of American ideas” not unlike Withoutabox’s philosophy of “leveling the playing field” for the masses of independent filmmakers.
Afterwards, while the impromtu entourage followed Gore to the Ceviche restaurant, I followed a different trail and wound up at a panel discussion Celebrating South Africa! Here, the filmmakers talked about filmmaking trends from the time of the uprising against Aparteid in 1976 and how music contributed as a means of getting the word out to the world about what was happening there. One such doc highlighted was Soweto Blues, with songs of South Africa as part of the liberation of the continent and up until 1976 were only sung by Africans, but since then the rest of the world joined in. Currently, more black South Africans are encouraged to get their personal stories out giving them opportunity to establish their identities as indie filmmakers.
I headed back to the Cinema Lounge for another DocTalks session, only to find it was delayed. However, it turned into a decidedly, unstressful gathering with festival participants milling around allowing opportunity to talk about films seen, panels heard and filmmakers meeting other filmmakers. It was a nice feeling not rushing to the next scheduled event, but that didn’t last too long when it came time for the Charles Guggenheim Symposium honoring filmmaker Martin Scorsese.
The Silver Theatre was packed to the limit and the obligatory introductions and recognitions seemed more relaxed and befitting the evening audience. Two filmmakers seated next to me found a way to get in whether they actually had an invitation or not, Martin Scorsese was far more alert than his interviewer, Jim Jarmusch and the best clips came from his Italian family documentary. By 9 p.m. it was over due to an outdoor screening of The Last Waltz. Pouring out of the Silver, the outgoing crowd streamed past crowds of people lined up, ready to get into the evening screenings.
It’s quite a balancing act for the festival organizers. While wanting to increase festival attendance, there’s always concern that it would be overcrowded and possibly uncontrollable. With constant vigilance, the festival organizers created a film festival ambience that underscored what filmgoers anticipate as part of their film festival experience. As a reception in the gardens at the Discovery headquarters waned into the late evening, I appreciated being under the cool, night sky (really, at this time in June!).
CHRISTINA KOTLAR, founder and producer of Film Festival ReViews, LLC is a writer/producer and independent filmmaker and most recently managing editor and writer for Film Festival Reporter, a tabloid publication dedicated to reporting on independent filmmaking and the film festival circuit in North America.
This morning I went to the 11a.m. film, Guerrilla Girl, an intimate look at a 21 year old women’s decision to become a guerilla soldier with the revolutionary People’s Army FARC in Colombia. Although they are taught survival and combatant skills, the film captures their desire for a semblance of the normal life they left behind – such as salsa dancing under the night sky – while always on the move, ready for battle. After a couple of outspoken remarks from the audience, director Frank Piasecki Poulsen provided additional information about the making of this candid view during the three shooting months in the Amazon. Later in the Cinema Lounge, I interviewed Poulsen about his work (that was in competition for the Sterling and Audience Awards), future projects and traveling the festival circuit to promote the film.
The afternoon zipped by quickly because of the anticipated keynote address by former Vice President Al Gore promoting CurrentTV, his media venture where filmmakers are welcome to submit their short documentaries and An Inconvenient Truth, a documentary about global warming. Alternately direct and witty with a bite, Gore spent quite a bit of time extolling the reaffirmation of democracy through current digital media vehicles “ to engage and recreate a marketplace of American ideas” not unlike Withoutabox’s philosophy of “leveling the playing field” for the masses of independent filmmakers.
Afterwards, while the impromtu entourage followed Gore to the Ceviche restaurant, I followed a different trail and wound up at a panel discussion Celebrating South Africa! Here, the filmmakers talked about filmmaking trends from the time of the uprising against Aparteid in 1976 and how music contributed as a means of getting the word out to the world about what was happening there. One such doc highlighted was Soweto Blues, with songs of South Africa as part of the liberation of the continent and up until 1976 were only sung by Africans, but since then the rest of the world joined in. Currently, more black South Africans are encouraged to get their personal stories out giving them opportunity to establish their identities as indie filmmakers.
I headed back to the Cinema Lounge for another DocTalks session, only to find it was delayed. However, it turned into a decidedly, unstressful gathering with festival participants milling around allowing opportunity to talk about films seen, panels heard and filmmakers meeting other filmmakers. It was a nice feeling not rushing to the next scheduled event, but that didn’t last too long when it came time for the Charles Guggenheim Symposium honoring filmmaker Martin Scorsese.
The Silver Theatre was packed to the limit and the obligatory introductions and recognitions seemed more relaxed and befitting the evening audience. Two filmmakers seated next to me found a way to get in whether they actually had an invitation or not, Martin Scorsese was far more alert than his interviewer, Jim Jarmusch and the best clips came from his Italian family documentary. By 9 p.m. it was over due to an outdoor screening of The Last Waltz. Pouring out of the Silver, the outgoing crowd streamed past crowds of people lined up, ready to get into the evening screenings.
It’s quite a balancing act for the festival organizers. While wanting to increase festival attendance, there’s always concern that it would be overcrowded and possibly uncontrollable. With constant vigilance, the festival organizers created a film festival ambience that underscored what filmgoers anticipate as part of their film festival experience. As a reception in the gardens at the Discovery headquarters waned into the late evening, I appreciated being under the cool, night sky (really, at this time in June!).
CHRISTINA KOTLAR, founder and producer of Film Festival ReViews, LLC is a writer/producer and independent filmmaker and most recently managing editor and writer for Film Festival Reporter, a tabloid publication dedicated to reporting on independent filmmaking and the film festival circuit in North America.
THE POWER OF THE PLATFORM: A MARYLAND MEMBER SPEAKS.
Jun 08, 2006 03:32PM
Matt Porterfield, whose film HAMILTON is now in Film Focus, shared these thoughts on indie marketing and the power of networking:
"I'm very excited about the potential of Audience. I'm an independent
filmmaker trying to peddle my first, small feature, Hamilton.
Withoutabox has been so indispensable in the difficult, time-consuming,
and often frustrating process of applying to film festivals; when I
learned of their free sister site, I set up a page that same day. And,
it took no time, maybe an hour; all the tools were there.
I have a nice website for my film with nice text and a trailer, but a
website sitting in space alone is useless. Its success relies on
exposure and traffic, usually gathered from other sites. A community
site, like Myspace, can be a big help; but, I think, a site like
Audience - geared to filmmakers, film lovers, free of advertising
interests - could be even better. I think it's a place where people
will gather to share projects, discuss projects, network, and find an
audience.
In the month I've been a member, I've learned much about new films;
I've made new friends, found old ones, received kind words from people I didn't know had seen my film, and found people to see my film that I hadn't previously known. And, that's the idea. It's a great resource for someone living and working in small or mid-size city like
Baltimore, outside the major film markets, where, locally, there's a
lot going on, but beyond the local it's hard to find an audience. The
average film festival, like any business, is not always willing to take
big risks on first features without names or big budgets. Exposure,
word-of-mouth - some presence - is necessary for the small, truly
independent film to create a niche."
"I'm very excited about the potential of Audience. I'm an independent
filmmaker trying to peddle my first, small feature, Hamilton.
Withoutabox has been so indispensable in the difficult, time-consuming,
and often frustrating process of applying to film festivals; when I
learned of their free sister site, I set up a page that same day. And,
it took no time, maybe an hour; all the tools were there.
I have a nice website for my film with nice text and a trailer, but a
website sitting in space alone is useless. Its success relies on
exposure and traffic, usually gathered from other sites. A community
site, like Myspace, can be a big help; but, I think, a site like
Audience - geared to filmmakers, film lovers, free of advertising
interests - could be even better. I think it's a place where people
will gather to share projects, discuss projects, network, and find an
audience.
In the month I've been a member, I've learned much about new films;
I've made new friends, found old ones, received kind words from people I didn't know had seen my film, and found people to see my film that I hadn't previously known. And, that's the idea. It's a great resource for someone living and working in small or mid-size city like
Baltimore, outside the major film markets, where, locally, there's a
lot going on, but beyond the local it's hard to find an audience. The
average film festival, like any business, is not always willing to take
big risks on first features without names or big budgets. Exposure,
word-of-mouth - some presence - is necessary for the small, truly
independent film to create a niche."
PUFFY PREMIERE: COMMANDOS TAKE CHARGE!
Jun 02, 2006 11:31AM
Tonight's the night! THE PUFFY CHAIR kicks off a five-city run in Austin, Boston, Portland, San Francisco, and Washington, DC. . .and our CineCommandos will be there in force.
Austin's the belle of this particular ball, with two screens--one downtown (at the famous Alama Draft House) and the other in the Great Hills district. Producer/director Duplass brothers will be at the former, and Commando Megan Fealy rallies the troops at theater two. Join her and other Puffy fans at Manuel's after the last screening--and raise a glass to indie film in the Lone Star State (and everywhere else!).
San Francisco Commando-in-Chief James Dallesandro will lead the charge tomorrow night at the Lumiere (on California, right off Polk), one of that city's best places to see cutting-edge film. A second screen in Berkeley makes this a one-two punch for Puffy's Bay Area debut.
The press have been have been giving Puffy its props, too. Both major dailies and alternative weeklies have scheduled reviews for today.
More Puffy and CineCommando news as it breaks. . .
Austin's the belle of this particular ball, with two screens--one downtown (at the famous Alama Draft House) and the other in the Great Hills district. Producer/director Duplass brothers will be at the former, and Commando Megan Fealy rallies the troops at theater two. Join her and other Puffy fans at Manuel's after the last screening--and raise a glass to indie film in the Lone Star State (and everywhere else!).
San Francisco Commando-in-Chief James Dallesandro will lead the charge tomorrow night at the Lumiere (on California, right off Polk), one of that city's best places to see cutting-edge film. A second screen in Berkeley makes this a one-two punch for Puffy's Bay Area debut.
The press have been have been giving Puffy its props, too. Both major dailies and alternative weeklies have scheduled reviews for today.
More Puffy and CineCommando news as it breaks. . .
AUDIENCE WORKS WONDERS: A 'TRUE' STORY!
May 31, 2006 05:02PM
We just spoke to Clint Berquist, Founder and Director of the Seattle True International Film Festival, who is using AUDIENCE as his festival's exclusive online marketing platform. "It's been great!" Cliff says, adding that "the support from Withoutabox has been outstanding."
It's also gratifying to learn that the press is keen on AUDIENCE. Clint tells us that a writer from the Seattle Times was especially enthusiastic about the wealth of information available to the media--all on one page. Just like we said, folks: AUDIENCE is a one-stop "communications central" for your film!
We'll update you with TRUE-life stories on how AUDIENCE fills seats. Onward!
It's also gratifying to learn that the press is keen on AUDIENCE. Clint tells us that a writer from the Seattle Times was especially enthusiastic about the wealth of information available to the media--all on one page. Just like we said, folks: AUDIENCE is a one-stop "communications central" for your film!
We'll update you with TRUE-life stories on how AUDIENCE fills seats. Onward!
JACKSONILLE'S MAJOR WINNERS - INCLUDING OUR MEMBERS!
May 22, 2006 09:49AM
This year's Jacksonville Film Festival's program included over 70 films from around the world. A whopping 75% of films screened during the festival where written, directed or produced by Withoutabox members, representing a strong majority in all categories.
The slate of films selected for this year's festival by executive director Jean Tait and programmer Tim Massett included the following categories: 19 features; 16 Documentaries; 32 Shorts; 5 Viva Cinema (Spanish Language) and 2 Avant Garde. The caliber of films was top-drawer in every category.
And the WINNERS are…
Audience Award: Chalk, Directed by Mike Akel – WAB Member
Best Documentary: What Remains, Directed by Steven Cantor
Best Short: Fumi and the Bad Luck Foot, Directed by David Chai - WAB Member
Best Student Short: Move-Ova-4-Supa-Nova, Directed by John Meisburg - WAB Member
Withoutabox applauds all participants and winners.
Festival attendees were encouraged to cowboy up for the wrap-up round up last night at the Florida Theatre to celebrate all participants and nominees and pay homage to awarded filmmakers. And yes, festivalgoers did break out the boots and wear the hat in true Jacksonville style! Congrats to festival staff on the best program ever!
The slate of films selected for this year's festival by executive director Jean Tait and programmer Tim Massett included the following categories: 19 features; 16 Documentaries; 32 Shorts; 5 Viva Cinema (Spanish Language) and 2 Avant Garde. The caliber of films was top-drawer in every category.
And the WINNERS are…
Audience Award: Chalk, Directed by Mike Akel – WAB Member
Best Documentary: What Remains, Directed by Steven Cantor
Best Short: Fumi and the Bad Luck Foot, Directed by David Chai - WAB Member
Best Student Short: Move-Ova-4-Supa-Nova, Directed by John Meisburg - WAB Member
Withoutabox applauds all participants and winners.
Festival attendees were encouraged to cowboy up for the wrap-up round up last night at the Florida Theatre to celebrate all participants and nominees and pay homage to awarded filmmakers. And yes, festivalgoers did break out the boots and wear the hat in true Jacksonville style! Congrats to festival staff on the best program ever!
JACKSONVILLE FILM FESTIVAL Beckons with Film, Culture, History
May 19, 2006 04:12PM
One of the premier cultural events in the Southeast, the Jacksonville Film Festival is on! Over 60 international films run at seven historical venues, including the Florida and San Marco Theaters, both listed by USA Today as a top-ten classic American cinema.
Jacksonville is also a flagship festival for AUDIENCE by Withoutabox. The fest has fully integrated this system into its website--screening times, synopses, stills and blogs are all part of the picture. Do take a look at their site,- www.jacksonvillefilmfestival.com. The future of indie film marketing is here!
Jacksonville is also a flagship festival for AUDIENCE by Withoutabox. The fest has fully integrated this system into its website--screening times, synopses, stills and blogs are all part of the picture. Do take a look at their site,- www.jacksonvillefilmfestival.com. The future of indie film marketing is here!
BIG-UP to WAB filmmakers at Cannes – 13 in total!
May 16, 2006 06:10PM
May 17th sees the Opening Gala of the Festival de Cannes. Of the 55 films screening at this year's Cannes, 48 are world premieres, repesenting 30 countries. This year's jury is especially impressive, with Chinese director, Wong Kar Wai, presiding; jurors include Monica Bellucci, Helena Bonham Carter, Zhang Ziyi, Samuel L. Jackson and Tim Roth.
Congratulations to our filmmakers at Cannes – 13 in total, with 8 shorts, 4 features and 1 L'Atelier script in competition this year.
Ron Howard's The Da Vinci Code opens the festival Tony Gatlif's Transylvania closes the 12-day event, which also includes the latest works of Almodovar, Moretti, and Kaurismäki. Slated celebrities include Tom Hanks, Audrey Tautou, Penelope Cruz, Kirsten Dunst, Judy Davis, Gael Garcia Bernal, and Cate Blanchett.
Watch this space for more Cannes news from our man on the ground, Elliot Kotek of Moving Pictures Magazine.
Your AUDIENCE Awaits.
May 16, 2006 02:43PM
Welcome to AUDIENCE by Withoutabox! While our official launch date is Thursday, May 18, the site is fully functional as of today.
Think of AUDIENCE as the communications and marketing hub for your film. Build audiences, interact with your fans, and take your film to the next level with this powerful platform for independent film.
If you're a member, look for a comprehensive AUDIENCE program announcement in your email on Thursday.
Think of AUDIENCE as the communications and marketing hub for your film. Build audiences, interact with your fans, and take your film to the next level with this powerful platform for independent film.
If you're a member, look for a comprehensive AUDIENCE program announcement in your email on Thursday.
"AUDIENCE" A HIT AT TRIBECA!
May 10, 2006 05:23PM
A very big thank you to the many Tribeca attendees who used AUDIENCE to share their festival experiences by rating films and following filmmakers' online blogs. All of you who participated are doing much to help filmmakers get the word out on their films. . .stay tuned to learn more about AUDIENCE's international community of indie film fans!
WITHOUTABOX MEMBERS WIN AT TRIBECA!
May 10, 2006 10:12AM
Hearty congratulations to Withoutabox members who were honored at the just-completed Tribeca Film Festival!
Best Documentary Feature - War Tapes, Directed by Deborah Scranton
NY Loves Film Best Documentary - When I Came Home, Directed by Dan Lohaus
Best Made in New York Narrative Feature - The Treatment, Directed by Oren Rudavsky and produced by Jonathon Shoemaker
Best Narrative Short - The Shovel, Directed by Nick Childs
Best Documentary Short - Native New Yorker, Directed by Steve Bilich and Produced by William Susman
Student Visionary Award - Dead End Job, Directed by Samantha Davidson Green
Audience Award - The Cats of Mirikitani, Directed by Linda Hattendorf
Very well done—and our congratulations on these marvelous honors!
TRIBECA DAY NINE
May 04, 2006 04:15PM
Withoutabox's Jennifer Warren reports:
What a past couple of days it has been! Last night Tom Cruise
rolled into town, crisscrossing Manhattan by motorcycle, speedboat, taxicab,helicopter, and sports car for the New York premiere of M:i:III. Not super-indie, but newsy nonetheless.
Today’s red-carpet events are much more in the ‘indie’ spirit, with a dash of A-list star power. Isabella Rossellini is here to help promote her brother Gil Rossellini’s documentary about his battle with a rare and devastating bacterial infection.
Gabriel Byrne, Susan Sarandon, and Tim Robbins will attend tonight’ premiere of British actor-turned-director Richard E. Grant’s melodrama Wah-Wah. Partially based on Grant's own experiences growing up in South Africa, it’s set against the backdrop of the handover of power in Swaziland, circa 1969.
Sigourney Weaver and Alan Rickman will be stepping out for director Marc Evans’s NYC premiere of Snow Cake, an intimate drama set in the frozen landscape of Ontario following the relationship of Linda (Sigourney Weaver), an autistic woman and Alex (Alan Rickman) a recently freed prisoner, brought together by life-altering circumstances.
Check out our Film Focus below for our daily festival picks!
What a past couple of days it has been! Last night Tom Cruise
rolled into town, crisscrossing Manhattan by motorcycle, speedboat, taxicab,helicopter, and sports car for the New York premiere of M:i:III. Not super-indie, but newsy nonetheless.
Today’s red-carpet events are much more in the ‘indie’ spirit, with a dash of A-list star power. Isabella Rossellini is here to help promote her brother Gil Rossellini’s documentary about his battle with a rare and devastating bacterial infection.
Gabriel Byrne, Susan Sarandon, and Tim Robbins will attend tonight’ premiere of British actor-turned-director Richard E. Grant’s melodrama Wah-Wah. Partially based on Grant's own experiences growing up in South Africa, it’s set against the backdrop of the handover of power in Swaziland, circa 1969.
Sigourney Weaver and Alan Rickman will be stepping out for director Marc Evans’s NYC premiere of Snow Cake, an intimate drama set in the frozen landscape of Ontario following the relationship of Linda (Sigourney Weaver), an autistic woman and Alex (Alan Rickman) a recently freed prisoner, brought together by life-altering circumstances.
Check out our Film Focus below for our daily festival picks!
TRIBECA SELL-OUTS FOR TIFFANY SHLAIN'S 'THE TRIBE'!
May 04, 2006 01:09PM
Tiffany Shlain, director of THE TRIBE, called us from San Francisco, having just returned from major success at Tribeca. (Her five main screenings all sold out—way to go, Tiffany!)
In her words: “Tribeca was an awesome experience, and the vibe there is so different from Sundance. What was especially amazing is that so many people who had heard about THE TRIBE online were able to see it in New York.
AUDIENCE helped me enormously. It’s heartening to see people I’ve never met write unsolicited reviews, which helps take the film to many more people. I would recommend AUDIENCE as a great way to reach film lovers everywhere.”
Tiffany tells us that “the buzz this year was about self-distributing; this is the year that the Internet is finally making it happen. A seminar I attended, ‘Downloading at a Theater Near You,” was packed—Steven Soderbergh was on the panel—and there’s great excitement about the opportunities making self-distribution possible for filmmakers right now.”
Stay tuned for more news from Tiffany Shlain and other Withoutabox filmmakers using AUDIENCE to take their films to new audiences, online and off!
In her words: “Tribeca was an awesome experience, and the vibe there is so different from Sundance. What was especially amazing is that so many people who had heard about THE TRIBE online were able to see it in New York.
AUDIENCE helped me enormously. It’s heartening to see people I’ve never met write unsolicited reviews, which helps take the film to many more people. I would recommend AUDIENCE as a great way to reach film lovers everywhere.”
Tiffany tells us that “the buzz this year was about self-distributing; this is the year that the Internet is finally making it happen. A seminar I attended, ‘Downloading at a Theater Near You,” was packed—Steven Soderbergh was on the panel—and there’s great excitement about the opportunities making self-distribution possible for filmmakers right now.”
Stay tuned for more news from Tiffany Shlain and other Withoutabox filmmakers using AUDIENCE to take their films to new audiences, online and off!
WAB's Latest Festival Buzz - Donald Sutherland, Luke Wilson and a whole lot more..
May 02, 2006 10:46PM
It’s now WAB’s 7th day here at Tribeca and though I know it’s a Tuesday by my film schedule, I am otherwise lost in the world of independent film expounded by the spirit of NYC!
Last night’s Red Carpet event to note was the premiere of Mini’s First Time. A dramatic tale by Nick Guthe, portraying the jaded life of an LA teenager captured perfectly by Nikki Reed. Other stellar performances included Luke Wilson, Alec Baldwin, Carrie-Anne Moss and Jeff Goldblum, creating a high energy presence at Pace University, the evening’s venue.
Yesterday’s top press conference was with Donald Sutherland, chosen by Elliot Kotek – Editor for Moving Pictures Magazine. Sutherland’s portrait of a dissident political prisoner in director Robert Edwards political satire, Land of the Blind delivers the film with a hard-hitting edge.
Today’s WAB top festival picks included Burke and Wills, MAQUILAPOLIS: city of factories and Twenty Dollar Drinks – Check them out below… Tribeca/ASCAP Music Lounge opened today featuring Nellie McKay, Josh Ritter and James Blood Ulmer sand I am looking forward to an performance by Elvis Costello this Friday!!
Tonight’s hot ticket party is hosted by Filmmaker Magazine at the NYC hotspot The Marquee. YES we will be there with hundreds of other festival revilers and we give you the low-down in tomorrow’s blog…
…
Last night’s Red Carpet event to note was the premiere of Mini’s First Time. A dramatic tale by Nick Guthe, portraying the jaded life of an LA teenager captured perfectly by Nikki Reed. Other stellar performances included Luke Wilson, Alec Baldwin, Carrie-Anne Moss and Jeff Goldblum, creating a high energy presence at Pace University, the evening’s venue.
Yesterday’s top press conference was with Donald Sutherland, chosen by Elliot Kotek – Editor for Moving Pictures Magazine. Sutherland’s portrait of a dissident political prisoner in director Robert Edwards political satire, Land of the Blind delivers the film with a hard-hitting edge.
Today’s WAB top festival picks included Burke and Wills, MAQUILAPOLIS: city of factories and Twenty Dollar Drinks – Check them out below… Tribeca/ASCAP Music Lounge opened today featuring Nellie McKay, Josh Ritter and James Blood Ulmer sand I am looking forward to an performance by Elvis Costello this Friday!!
Tonight’s hot ticket party is hosted by Filmmaker Magazine at the NYC hotspot The Marquee. YES we will be there with hundreds of other festival revilers and we give you the low-down in tomorrow’s blog…
…
TRIBECA: BEST FILM, BEST BUZZ--AND THE BEST PARTY!
Apr 30, 2006 10:46AM
WITHOUTABOX's own Jennifer Warren, marketing director, has been EVERYWHERE at Tribeca this week (and we mean EVERYWHERE). Here's her hot-off-the-press report:
Day 5 at Tribeca! The energy here is amazing, as is connecting with both filmmakers and festivalgoers--and the range of independent film here astounds.
Check out Film Focus below for highlights of the day's screening schedule. Today's picks are all documentaries by filmmakers in the WAB network. Not to be missed: Tiffany Shlain's short THE TRIBE – a 15-minute unorthodox history of the Barbie doll and the Jewish people (which sells out everywhere it plays!); BLOODY FOOTY, a short premiering at Tribeca by Australian filmmaker, Dean Chircop; and last but not least WATERBUSTER a feature by filmmaker J. Carlos Peinado documenting his journey of self-discovery to his ancestral Native American homeland in North Dakota--where he revisits the impact the construction of the Garrison Dam had on a whole culture.
Find out more about the filmmakers by clicking on the any of the films below - a direct connection to their AUDIENCE blog page, full of insightful and personal festival observations (and more).
Sunday is a busy day for the Withoutabox team! As well as showing our support at the screenings, we are also co-hosting a party with Moving Pictures Magazine, one of the hot-ticket events for today! Our soiree is a private event right in the heart of Tribeca; the invite list includes ndustry professionals, top filmmakers, and--yes!--celebrities. Share in the experience right here when we post our inside scoop featuring on the spot interviews from party-goers with their festival low-down.
We can't wait! Watch this space for all the details. . .
Day 5 at Tribeca! The energy here is amazing, as is connecting with both filmmakers and festivalgoers--and the range of independent film here astounds.
Check out Film Focus below for highlights of the day's screening schedule. Today's picks are all documentaries by filmmakers in the WAB network. Not to be missed: Tiffany Shlain's short THE TRIBE – a 15-minute unorthodox history of the Barbie doll and the Jewish people (which sells out everywhere it plays!); BLOODY FOOTY, a short premiering at Tribeca by Australian filmmaker, Dean Chircop; and last but not least WATERBUSTER a feature by filmmaker J. Carlos Peinado documenting his journey of self-discovery to his ancestral Native American homeland in North Dakota--where he revisits the impact the construction of the Garrison Dam had on a whole culture.
Find out more about the filmmakers by clicking on the any of the films below - a direct connection to their AUDIENCE blog page, full of insightful and personal festival observations (and more).
Sunday is a busy day for the Withoutabox team! As well as showing our support at the screenings, we are also co-hosting a party with Moving Pictures Magazine, one of the hot-ticket events for today! Our soiree is a private event right in the heart of Tribeca; the invite list includes ndustry professionals, top filmmakers, and--yes!--celebrities. Share in the experience right here when we post our inside scoop featuring on the spot interviews from party-goers with their festival low-down.
We can't wait! Watch this space for all the details. . .
TRIBECA: AN INSIDE VIEW
Apr 29, 2006 01:30PM
Guest editor Elliot V. Kotek, Editor-in-Chief of MOVING PICTURES MAGAZINE, has filed this bird's-eye view of the proceedings in Lower Manhattan:
Naomi Watts stepped out on the red carpet last night with golden 50s
curls and support for the Australian-born "TROPFEST" short-film
program. Watts's diminutive frame stood short against her circus-tall boyfriend, Liev Schreiber, X-Men's Famke Janssen, and the rejuvenated
popularity of Matt Dillon. Husband-and-wife-team, Anthony LaPaglia and Gia Carides, both with films in the fest, also joined the thousand-plus film-fans on the shore of the Hudson River, a mere stone's throw awayfrom the footprint the terrorist's left in Manhattan's mold.
Just as United 93 opened the fest with strength and strong reviews five years after 9/11, powerful documentaries such as "Encounter Point", "Freedom's Fury", and Oscar-nominated Adrian Belic's "Beyond the Call"power home the throughline of Tribeca's films with force.
Star power from both sides of the camera, including John Travolta,
James Gandolfini, Lucy Liu, David Duchovny, Sigourney Weaver, Brendan Fraser, John Malkovich, Luke Wilson, Ed Burns, and friends have hightail photo opps, topical panels, and press conferences for their fans (which include the fellow filmmakers honored with selection in
this year's program), and solidify the trend of A-list talent spruiking
the worthy fight for heartfelt "independent" cinema that showcases
humanity in all its glory, and with all its flaws.
While this past Sundance could have been hailed as Swagfest '06,
Tribeca's team of De Niro, Hatkoff, and Jane Rosenthal seem to be
doing what New Yorkers do best - keeping it very, very real - in the
shadow of a skyline with something to prove.
Naomi Watts stepped out on the red carpet last night with golden 50s
curls and support for the Australian-born "TROPFEST" short-film
program. Watts's diminutive frame stood short against her circus-tall boyfriend, Liev Schreiber, X-Men's Famke Janssen, and the rejuvenated
popularity of Matt Dillon. Husband-and-wife-team, Anthony LaPaglia and Gia Carides, both with films in the fest, also joined the thousand-plus film-fans on the shore of the Hudson River, a mere stone's throw awayfrom the footprint the terrorist's left in Manhattan's mold.
Just as United 93 opened the fest with strength and strong reviews five years after 9/11, powerful documentaries such as "Encounter Point", "Freedom's Fury", and Oscar-nominated Adrian Belic's "Beyond the Call"power home the throughline of Tribeca's films with force.
Star power from both sides of the camera, including John Travolta,
James Gandolfini, Lucy Liu, David Duchovny, Sigourney Weaver, Brendan Fraser, John Malkovich, Luke Wilson, Ed Burns, and friends have hightail photo opps, topical panels, and press conferences for their fans (which include the fellow filmmakers honored with selection in
this year's program), and solidify the trend of A-list talent spruiking
the worthy fight for heartfelt "independent" cinema that showcases
humanity in all its glory, and with all its flaws.
While this past Sundance could have been hailed as Swagfest '06,
Tribeca's team of De Niro, Hatkoff, and Jane Rosenthal seem to be
doing what New Yorkers do best - keeping it very, very real - in the
shadow of a skyline with something to prove.
WIN A WAB FESTIVAL 5 PACK!!
Apr 27, 2006 02:03AM
Here we are at Tribeca 5th Annual Film Festival now in full swing with a stellar film schedule attracting visitors from around the globe. With nearly 300 films screening this year there is a lot to cover! Check out our daily Festival Film Focus for AUDIENCE featured screenings of the day. Today’s picks include I’ll Be There With You – an NYC Premiere not part of the Tribeca line-up but a worthy inclusion in your screening schedule today with a happening after-party not to be missed!
WIN A WAB FESTIVAL 5 PACK!!
If you are a festivalgoer at this year’s Tribeca be sure to use AUDIENCE to rate and recommend the films of your choice to share with other festivalgoers and for the chance to win a WAB Festival 5 Pack. Tribeca festivalgoers will be entered into the daily AUDIENCE prize-draw by using AUDIENCE to connect with filmmakers and creating a profile. WAB Festival 5 Packs include daily highlights from the Tribeca film schedule and is a great way for you to take your festival experience home with you!
We look forward to sharing in your festival experience!
WIN A WAB FESTIVAL 5 PACK!!
If you are a festivalgoer at this year’s Tribeca be sure to use AUDIENCE to rate and recommend the films of your choice to share with other festivalgoers and for the chance to win a WAB Festival 5 Pack. Tribeca festivalgoers will be entered into the daily AUDIENCE prize-draw by using AUDIENCE to connect with filmmakers and creating a profile. WAB Festival 5 Packs include daily highlights from the Tribeca film schedule and is a great way for you to take your festival experience home with you!
We look forward to sharing in your festival experience!
TRIBECA: YOUR "Audience" AWAITS!
Apr 23, 2006 11:05AM
The Withoutabox team will be at Tribeca in force--of course! General manager Fred Kramer and marketing director Jennifer Warren will be in on hand throughout the Festival. . .to show Withoutabox filmmakers how AUDIENCE can serve as a marketing machine for your film. A private tutorial? Can do! Just email jwarren@withoutabox.com and Jennifer will set up a session with you in NYC. And to all our members at Tribeca. . .good luck and good times!
SXSW WAB filmmakers featured on AUDIENCE
Mar 10, 2006 01:17PM
Visit AUDIENCE daily to experience the SXSW Film Festival with our WAB team in attendance. Our Film Focus will be updated with WAB’s featured daily screenings - click through to read filmmaker blogs and festival-goers commentary. WAB is once again thrilled to be able to meet our filmmakers and supporters in person, if you are going to be in Austin TX drop by the SXSW Film Expo hosted at the Convention Center and look for the WAB booth…
This looks set to be another stellar year for independents at SXSW!
This looks set to be another stellar year for independents at SXSW!
Withoutabox member filmmakers win at the OSCARS!
Mar 06, 2006 01:16PM
6 years ago WAB created a network to help filmmakers with festival submissions and since then our network has grown to over 85,000 members and hundreds of festival partners worldwide. Every week WAB members are being awarded at festivals and our network continues to grow. We take pride in our support to the growth of independent film and when our members are honored by OSCAR, we're very proud indeed.
This year, 15 Withoutabox members were OSCAR nominees, and 4 of you took home Academy Awards. Hats off, all!
Join WAB in congratulating WAB OSCAR winners - A NOTE OF TRIUMPH: THE GOLDEN AGE OF NORMAN CORWIN Documentary Short Directed by Corinne Marrinan, Tsotsi - Foreign Language Film Produced by Peter Fudakowski, THE MOON AND THE SON: AN IMAGINED CONVERSATION - Short Film (Animated) Directed by John Canemaker and SIX SHOOTER - Short Film (Live Action) Produced by Mia Bays.
This year, 15 Withoutabox members were OSCAR nominees, and 4 of you took home Academy Awards. Hats off, all!
Join WAB in congratulating WAB OSCAR winners - A NOTE OF TRIUMPH: THE GOLDEN AGE OF NORMAN CORWIN Documentary Short Directed by Corinne Marrinan, Tsotsi - Foreign Language Film Produced by Peter Fudakowski, THE MOON AND THE SON: AN IMAGINED CONVERSATION - Short Film (Animated) Directed by John Canemaker and SIX SHOOTER - Short Film (Live Action) Produced by Mia Bays.
FREE LA Screening for WE GO WAY BACK – a WAB Film Focus - TONIGHT!
Feb 23, 2006 01:15PM
Come join your peers tonight in L.A. for a FREE screening of Seattle filmmaker Lynn Shelton's WE GO WAY BACK, the Grand Jury Award winner for Best Narrative Feature at SLAMDANCE. This is a chance to see a great film and meet an extraordinary filmmaker at the Frank Gehry designed Disney Concert Hall. There's also a sneak preview of Guy Maddin's latest film THE BRAND UPON THE BRAIN - slated to open the Toronto International Film Festival, and a Q&A with Lynn following the film.
See more about the film here: http://www.withoutabox.com/audience/films/wegowayback
See more about the film here: http://www.withoutabox.com/audience/films/wegowayback
11 WAB member filmmakers win at SLAMDANCE! 11 out of 15 ain’t bad…
Jan 27, 2006 01:15PM
WABees cleaned up, taking over 2/3 of the Slamdance awards, including...
Grand Jury Award, Best Doc: EMPIRE IN AFRICA - Philippe Diaz
Audience Sparky Award, Best Doc: ABDUCTION - Chris Sheridan & Patty Kim
Best Narrative Short: THE SAVIOUR - Peter Templeman
Best Documentary Short: UNDER THE ROLLER COASTER - Lila Place
Audience Award: Best Out of Competition Feature: NEO NED - Van Fischer
The Spirit of Slamdance Award: HIRO - Matthew Swanson
Best Short Screenplay: THE SAINT OF ZUIDERZEE - Brian Higdon, Virginia Friedman & Steve Hess SUNDANCE WINNERS
You got plenty of press - but we'd like to offer a special nod to DE NADIE (Mexico), directed by Tin Dirdamal who took home the WORLD CINEMA Audience Award and James Longley, whose Doc IRAQ IN FRAGMENTS swept directing, editing and cinematography awards.
Grand Jury Award, Best Doc: EMPIRE IN AFRICA - Philippe Diaz
Audience Sparky Award, Best Doc: ABDUCTION - Chris Sheridan & Patty Kim
Best Narrative Short: THE SAVIOUR - Peter Templeman
Best Documentary Short: UNDER THE ROLLER COASTER - Lila Place
Audience Award: Best Out of Competition Feature: NEO NED - Van Fischer
The Spirit of Slamdance Award: HIRO - Matthew Swanson
Best Short Screenplay: THE SAINT OF ZUIDERZEE - Brian Higdon, Virginia Friedman & Steve Hess SUNDANCE WINNERS
You got plenty of press - but we'd like to offer a special nod to DE NADIE (Mexico), directed by Tin Dirdamal who took home the WORLD CINEMA Audience Award and James Longley, whose Doc IRAQ IN FRAGMENTS swept directing, editing and cinematography awards.
SLAMDANCE screens Four Eyed Monster’s filmmakers podcast series – Tonight!
Jan 25, 2006 01:14PM
This evening, filmmakers Arin Crumley and Susan Buice will be premiering on the big screen their hugely successful podcast series, following their creative and emotional journey with their first feature Four Eyed Monsters. Join WAB in supporting two of our featured member filmmakers as they explore experimental and innovative ways to tell their story. WAB will be participating in a discussion with Arin and Susan after the screening regarding their experience so far and why and how they are actively pursuing their own audience. FREE! Screening starts at 8pm tickets available at Slamdance box office prior to screening. If you aren’t in Park City visit the Four Eyed Monsters page featured in our Film Focus to participate online!
SLAMDANCE filmmakers in the spotlight on AUDIENCE…
Jan 24, 2006 01:13PM
Filmmakers reach out to your audience and supporters - at the festival, on your mailing
list, and at home. Encourage them to login to Audience at
audience.withoutabox.com to comment on, rate, and recommend your film. This is how innovative filmmakers at SLAMDANCE have created an interactive forum for their audience to participate in promotion of their film before, during and after the festival. Check out our SLAMDANCE and SUNDANCE featured films on AUDIENCE for a glimpse of WAB’s festival picks.
list, and at home. Encourage them to login to Audience at
audience.withoutabox.com to comment on, rate, and recommend your film. This is how innovative filmmakers at SLAMDANCE have created an interactive forum for their audience to participate in promotion of their film before, during and after the festival. Check out our SLAMDANCE and SUNDANCE featured films on AUDIENCE for a glimpse of WAB’s festival picks.
SLAMDANCE initiates the launch of AUDIENCE by Withoutabox…
Jan 23, 2006 01:13PM
Withoutabox is very excited to be here in Park City and even more excited to be launching our new AUDIENCE component to the WAB network. SLAMDANCE is the first festival featured on AUDIENCE with interactive film schedules and personal calendar options we are inviting all festival-goers to participate. Click on the SLAMDANCE link to view ratings, audience reviews and filmmaker blogs - create a blog yourself! If you are in Park City visit the Withoutabox station (located at the Queer Lounge in The Gateway Center off Main Street) to meet the WAB team for an online tour of AUDIENCE.
Withoutabox in Park City!
Jan 22, 2006 01:12PM
It's an excellent time here in the snow in Park City, UT. Withoutabox is running around town, meeting SLAMDANCE and SUNDANCE filmmakers, stargazing, and hooking up with all sorts of festival directors and film enthusiasts. We're inspired by your creativity and skill and vision - and we appreciate the overwhelming support of the filmmakers who are here.
Thu, April 27, 2006
Something for Nothing
Tribeca Film Festival, Shorts in Competition - Programs
7:15 pm AMC Loews 34th Street
Tribeca Film Festival, Shorts in Competition - Programs
7:15 pm AMC Loews 34th Street
Sun, April 30, 2006
Something for Nothing
Tribeca Film Festival, Shorts in Competition - Programs
7:45 pm AMC Loews 34th Street
Tribeca Film Festival, Shorts in Competition - Programs
7:45 pm AMC Loews 34th Street
Sat, May 20, 2006
Apart From That
Jacksonville Film Festival, Screening
1:00 pm San Marco Theatre
Jacksonville Film Festival, Screening
1:00 pm San Marco Theatre
Alt Fest - Lost In Space
Jacksonville Film Festival, Competition
2:00 pm Jacksonville Public Library - Main Library
Jacksonville Film Festival, Competition
2:00 pm Jacksonville Public Library - Main Library
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