Lionsgate and STUDIOCANAL have extended and expanded their partnership with a longterm renewal of the agreement under which Lionsgate distributes the STUDIOCANAL library of more than 2,000 titles as well as a new agreement for STUDIOCANAL to distribute the next installment of THE HUNGER GAMES franchise, CATCHING FIRE, in the German speaking territories, the two companies announced today at the Cannes Film Festival.

The first film in the franchise, the global blockbuster THE HUNGER GAMES, has grossed nearly $400 million at the North American box office and is approaching $650 million at the worldwide box office, including more than $24 million at the box office in the German speaking territories.

“STUDIOCANAL exemplifies the global reach, market leadership and innovative thinking of the media companies with whom we are partnered around the world,” said Lionsgate Motion Picture Group Co-Chairs Patrick Wachsberger and Rob Friedman and Motion Picture Group President Steve Beeks.  “We’re delighted to expand our longstanding STUDIOCANAL relationship with a renewal of our filmed entertainment library distribution agreement as well as an agreement for STUDIOCANAL to distribute CATCHING FIRE in the German speaking territories. Our STUDIOCANAL partnership has been an important part of our growth around the world, and we believe that they will become an even more important part of our future.”

Olivier Courson, Chairman of STUDIOCANAL : “Lionsgate has always been a great partner to STUDIOCANAL. In the US they have distributed our library, from GRAND ILLUSION to TERMINATOR 2. They had a great success with LAST EXORCISM, opening it to over $20 million. In the UK we are partners in the leading independents home entertainment operation Elevation.  And in Germany, we have a long term relationship on current films and are very happy to have THE HUNGER GAMES. Strengthening our partnership with an even stronger Lionsgate on a long term basis is a great opportunity for STUDIOCANAL.”

“Lionsgate has been very successful in monetizing our library titles over the years, and we’re pleased to extend that arrangement for many years to come,” said STUDIOCANAL Germany CEO Rodolphe Buet. “Lionsgate’s pipeline includes some of the most commercially exciting films in the world and we’re delighted to follow up our successful relationship on THE HUNGER GAMES with distribution of the next exciting film in the franchise, CATCHING FIRE, throughout the German speaking territories.  We believe that THE HUNGER GAMES phenomenon will continue to build worldwide and will resonate with our audiences for years to come.”

The STUDIOCANAL library includes DVD, television, on demand and digital rights to some of the top titles from the former Carolco and DEG libraries, including TERMINATOR 2: JUDGMENT DAY, TOTAL RECALL, BASIC INSTINCT and RAMBO as well as classics such as TENDER MERCIES, CRIMES OF THE HEART, FRANCES and EVIL DEAD II and French masterpieces including Jean Renoir’s GRAND ILLUSION and RULES OF THE GAME and Luis Bunuel’s THAT OBSCURE OBJECT OF DESIRE and THE DISCREET CHARM OF THE BOURGEOISIE.

In addition to Lionsgate’s distribution of the STUDIOCANAL library and STUDIOCANAL’s distribution of THE HUNGER GAMES and CATCHING FIRE in the German-speaking territories, Lionsgate UK and STUDIOCANAL are partnered in the UK in Elevation Sales, a home entertainment sales and distribution joint venture.

Sony Pictures Classics has acquired all North American rights to Pablo Larraín’s Cannes Directors’ Fortnight sensation, NO from financier Participant Media in association with Funny Balloons and Fabula. NO stars Gael García Bernal (Babel, The Motorcycle Diaries), Alfredo Castro, Antónia Zegers, Marcial Tagle, Néstor Cantillana, Jaime Vadell and Pascal Montero. The film is one of the best-received films in Cannes with raves from critics following the first screening in Director’s Fortnight.

Directed by Pablo Larraín (Post Mortem, Tony Manero) from a screenplay by Pedro Peirano (TheMaid), NO is produced by Juan de Diós Larraín and Daniel Dreifuss and executive produced by Participant’s Jeff Skoll and Jonathan King.

Based on a true story, when Chilean military dictator Augusto Pinochet, facing international pressure, calls for a referendum on his presidency in 1988, opposition leaders persuade a brash young advertising executive, Rene Saavedra (Gael García Bernal), to spearhead their campaign. With scant resources and constant scrutiny by the despot’s watchmen, Saavedra and his team devise an audacious plan to win the election and free their country from oppression.

“This movie is a masterfully engaging and energetic drama about politics and power, a tonic for the brain that is also a major entertainment. NO establishes Pablo Larrain as a major international director and Gael Garcia Bernal gives his finest performance. We are also delighted to be back in
business with our friends at Participant,” stated Sony Pictures Classics.

“Pablo, Gael and the team made a brave, inspiring film, and we are grateful to the audiences at Cannes for embracing it so warmly,” said Participant Media CEO Jim Berk, “Sony Pictures Classics is the perfect partner to introduce this film to American audiences.”

Jeff Ivers and Jonathan King of Participant Media negotiated the deal with SPC.

Garrett Hedlund (TRON: LEGACY, COUNTRY STRONG, and the upcoming  ON THE ROAD and INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS), Oscar nominee Richard Jenkins (THE VISITOR), Jessica Brown Findlay (PBS’ “Downton Abbey”), Oscar winner Jennifer Hudson (DREAMGIRLS), Oscar nominee Terrence Howard and three-time Oscar nominee Amy Adams (THE FIGHTER) will star in acclaimed fine artist Andrew Levitas’ comedy/drama LULLABY. It was announced today by Mimi Steinbauer, President and CEO of Radiant Films International, and producers Andrea Stone-Brokaw of Ananta Productions and Cary Brokaw (THE PLAYER, SHORT CUTS, ANGELS IN AMERICA, CLOSER) of Avenue Pictures. Radiant Films will be offering the film to international buyers of the Cannes Film Market.

Levitas will direct the feature film from his own script which is set to start shooting in June 2012 in New York City. The Producers are in discussion with several domestic distributors but the North American rights have not been licensed.

Filled with considerable comedic beats, LULLABY explores the power of life, its transformative moments and reconnections between loved ones. Estranged from his family, Jonathan (Hedlund) receives word that his father, Robert (Jenkins), who has been fighting illness for over a decade has chosen to take himself off life support in less than forty-eight hours. What follows is an unexpected journey of love, laughter, and forgiveness.

“Andrea and Cary have assembled a truly stellar cast for this life affirming tale of family and love. And in Andrew Levitas’ visionary hands LULLABY will unquestionably be an exciting film” said Steinbauer.

“Andrew Levitas has written a remarkable script and created a story that is as funny as it is moving and a part of life that everyone can identify with.” said Stone-Brokaw and Brokaw.

Hedlund made his leading breakout role in Disney’s action blockbuster TRON: LEGACY opposite Jeff Bridges before starring in COUNTRY STRONG opposite Gwyneth Paltrow. He will next star in Walter Salles’ Cannes 2012 Official Selector ON THE ROAD, where he co-starred with Adams alongside Kristen Stewart, Kirsten Dunst and Viggo Mortensen and the Coen Brothers’ INSIDE LLEWYN DAVIS opposite Carey Mulligan and Justin Timberlake, currently in post-production.

Jenkins will next be seen opposite Brad Pitt, Ray Liotta and James Gandolfini in KILLING THEM SOFTLY which will world premiere in the Official Selection of the 2012 Cannes Film Festival. He received an Oscar nomination for his performance in THE VISITOR and can currently be seen in theatres in the box office horror hit THE CABIN IN THE WOODS for Lionsgate and Lawrence Kasdan’s DARLING COMPANION opposite Mark Duplass and Diane Keaton. His other upcoming films include Sundance hit LIBERAL ARTS, Robert Redford’s THE COMPANY YOU KEEP and ONE SHOT opposite Tom Cruise for Paramount Pictures.

Findlay can currently be seen playing Lady Sybil Crawley on the popular PBS series “Downton Abbey”. She was nominated last year for a British Independent Award for Most Promising Newcomer for her lead performance in IFC FILMS’ ALBATROSS opposite Felicity Jones. She has several films in the works including WINTER’S TALE opposite Will Smith, Russell Crowe and Colin Farrell for Warner Bros Pictures, John McKay’s NOT ANOTHER HAPPY ENDING and the comedy SHOPLIFTERS OF THE WORLD.

Hudson won the hearts of millions and an Academy Award for her electrifying performance in DREAMGIRLS. She also starred in THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES and in the upcoming WINNIE.

Howard was nominated for Best Actor for his acclaimed performance in HUSTLE & FLOW. He also starred in FOUR BROTHERS, THE HUNTING PARTY, THE BRAVE ONE and IRON MAN. His upcoming films include Robert Redford’s THE COMPANY YOU KEEP and Niels Arden Oplev’s DEAD MAN DOWN opposite Colin Farrell and Noomi Rapace.

Adams is one of today’s most versatile actresses with three Oscar nominations under the belt, most recently for the Oscar winning THE FIGHTER opposite Mark Wahlberg and Christian Bale and DOUBT opposite Meryl Streep. Last year she starred in Disney’s mega box office hit THE MUPPETS and will next be seen in ON THE ROAD, set for release through IFC Films and Sundance Selects in late Fall 2012. Her other upcoming films include TROUBLE WITH THE CURVE opposite Clint Eastwood, Paul Thomas Anderson’s THE MASTER co-starring Joaquin Phoenix and Philip Seymour Hoffman and Zac Snyder’s highly anticipated MAN OF STEEL for Warner Bros. Pictures in 2013.

Levitas is an internationally recognized artist. His paintings have exhibited world-wide, including the prestigious Societe Nationale des Beaux-Arts 2008 exhibition at the Louvre. He is also a highly acclaimed photographer and creator of the photographic process Metalwork Photography. His work has been featured in the world’s top photographic journals as well as garnered attention through sales at the top auction houses and Museums worldwide. Levitas also recently produced the Fox Searchlight release THE ART OF GETTING by that made its debut at the 2011 Sundance Film Festival.

Andrea Stone-Brokaw is a highly respected producer and casting director with a body of experience working in film communities the world over. She worked as Executive Vice President of Production for Viking Film based in Norway. Upon returning to Los Angeles she focused on her career as a casting director and has cast over 25 feature films working on films in the U.S., Spain, Australia and the U.K. She has cast many stars in some of their early leading roles including Colin Firth, Kevin Spacey, Benecio Del Toro, Viggo Mortensen, Josh Brolin, Matthew McConaughey, Vince Vaughn, and Patricia Clarkson. She was the resident casting director for Avenue Pictures from 1995 to 2000. Andrea has over ten films and two television series in development.

Cary Brokaw of Avenue Pictures is a two time Emmy award winning producer who won for HBO’s mini-series “Angels in America” starring Al Pacino, Meryl Streep and Emma Thompson and Mike Nichols’ “Wit”. His film credits include the Oscar nominated CLOSER starring Julia Roberts, Jude Law, Natalie Portman, Clive Owen, and directed by Mike Nichols, MERCHANT OF VENICE, starring Al Pacino and Jeremy Irons, and THE PLAYER, SHORT CUTS, and DRUGSTORE COWBOY are among his many other films.

Media House Capital and Three Point Capital are co-financing the film. Aaron L. Gilbert is an Executive Producer and Patrick Murray is a co-Executive Producer.

Strategic Film Partners has acquired international sales rights to the feature film Crooked Arrows starring Brandon Routh (Superman Returns).  The film, which depicts the story of an underdog American lacrosse team, was directed by Steve Rash (The Buddy Holly Story, Bring It On 3 & 4) and opens in limited engagements in the U.S. on May 18^th, expanding with a wider national and Canadian release on June 1^st.  The timing of the release is significant as global interest in the sport is at an all time high due to the upcoming 2012 World Championships of the Federation of International Lacrosse in July in Finland.

Crooked Arrowsis the first mainstream lacrosse movie.  It pays homage to the fast growing sport’s history by featuring a Native American high school team as the heroic underdogs, who rediscover their spirit when paired with a reluctant coach (Routh).  Routh plays the mixed blood son of the nation’s chairman who has returned to his reservation to expand the community’s fledgling casino, but his traditionalist father and the tribal council insist that he must first re-examine his spirit before he can undertake his enterprise.  Together with his skeptical team, he leads them on an unlikely journey to the New York prep league championship game.

In addition to Routh, the movie stars Gil Birmingham (Twilight), Crystal Allen, Chelsea Ricketts, Dennis Ambriz, and Tom Kemp.  The lacrosse players are actual lacrosse players from around the country. The Native high school team was cast by Sports Studio’s Mark Ellis (Invincible, Miracle, Game Plan) in a visit to Syracuse last spring with all of the team’s players originating from the Six Nations Confederacy in upstate New York, with most being Onondaga, Tuscarora, or Mohawk.

The movie, which was shot in Massachusetts last August, has attracted substantial attention from the international lacrosse world, which is booming in several markets under the Federation of International Lacrosse.  Leagues and teams from the UK, Spain, France, Germany Netherlands, Turkey, Israel, Russia, Japan and Australia have all made multiple inquiries about the film’s international plans.

“This is a fun family-oriented movie that should play very well overseas,” said Strategic Film Partners’ CEO Alex Barder. “It’s much more than a typical sports picture, with several positive messages about finding one’s family and spirit and a father and son reconnecting.  I think people will laugh and cry and be thrilled by the action, whether they know lacrosse or not.”

From its first stages of development, the picture organically attracted widespread support in the both the lacrosse and Native American worlds.  Sponsors include Reebok, US Lacrosse, and the Onondaga Nation, which also made a substantial investment in the $10M movie.  The film has also gained endorsements from Inside Lacrosse Magazine, Major League Lacrosse, National Lacrosse League, and dozens of the sport’s top players, including Paul Rabil.

Producers J. Todd Harris (Bottle Shock, The Kids Are All Right) and Mitchell Peck (Priest) led the charge to put the production and P&A financing together, along with former All-American Jeff McCormick, a Boston-based venture capitalist who led his 1983 Syracuse lacrosse team to the NCAA championship.  Over fifty investors, most of them lacrosse enthusiasts, participated in the film’s financing.

Branded Pictures Entertainment is releasing the film in conjunction with Freestyle Releasing and Pandemic Marketing. May 18^th will see a release on 55 screens in 17 cities and June 1^stshould see an expansion to over 400 screens in over 75 cities.

Visit the official site: http://crookedarrows.com/

 ”Like” on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/crookedarrows 

Follow on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/crookedarrows

British comedic actor Simon Pegg (MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE -GHOST PROTOCOL, PAUL) has been cast in the lead role in director Peter Chelsom’s (SHALL WE DANCE?, FUNNY BONES,) next movie – drama comedy HECTOR AND THE SEARCH FOR HAPPINESS, it was announced today by Lisa Wilson and Myles Nestel, founders and co-partners of The Solution Entertainment Group (“The Solution”) who are handling worldwide rights to the film.

Adapted for the screen by Chelsom and Tinker Lindsay from the bestselling novel of the same name by François Lelord, the film is a German/Canadian co-production produced by Egoli Tossell Film and Screen Siren Pictures currently in pre-production and set to shoot straight after Pegg’s THE WORLD’S END.

Pegg plays Hector, an eccentric yet irresistible London psychiatrist in crisis: his patients are just not getting any happier! He’s going nowhere. Then one day, armed with buckets of courage and an almost child-like curiosity, Hector breaks out of his sheltered vacuum of a life into a global quest to find out if happiness exists. More importantly, if it exists for Hector. And so begins a colorful, exotic, dangerous and hysterical journey.

Pegg has shot to international fame following his stand-out performances in SHAUN OF THE DEAD, STAR TREK, HOT FUZZ, PAUL and most recently MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE – GHOST PROTOCOL opposite Tom Cruise reprising his role from MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE III and Thompson in Steven Spielberg’s THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN.  Pegg is currently in post-production on the next STAR TREK movie currently untitled.

British-born Chelsom began his directing career with break out British films HEAR MY SONG and FUNNY BONES. These were followed by a string of romantic, feel good hits including SERENDIPITY starring John Cusack and Kate Beckinsale, SHALL WE DANCE? starring Richard Gere and the award winning THE MIGHTY starring Sharon Stone. His last two films SHALL WE DANCE? and HANNAH MONTANA: THE MOVIE enjoyed a combined worldwide box office of over US$ 325m.

On the announcement of the film Chelsom said, “I’ve been searching long and hard for a film that would bring me back to my European sensibilities.  Not unlike Being There and Forrest Gump, HECTOR is a contemporary love story, a fable wrapped around a very human hero’s journey. Nobody does the innocent abroad better than Simon Pegg: he is not only a brilliant comedian but a very touching actor. He is the Hector that you want to follow to the ends of the earth.”

This will be Chelsom’s third film with Academy Award winning costume designer Lindy Hemming (TOPSY TURVY, THE DARK KNIGHT RISES, CASINO ROYALE). Award winning director of photography Hagen Bogdanski is also set to join the filmmaking team.  His credits include the Academy Award winning THE LIVES OF OTHERS, YOUNG VICTORIA and Madonna’s W.E.

Egoli Tossell Film is the Berlin based production company helmed by Jens Meurer and Judy Tossell and backed by Film House Germany.  This past year’s (co)-productions include Paul Andrew Williams’ SONG FOR MARION, Jon Baird’s adaptation of Irvine Welsh’s cult novel FILTH and Ron Howard’s Formula One drama RUSH. Other recent credits include the Academy Award and Golden Globe nominated THE LAST STATION, Olivier Assayas’ Golden Globe winner CARLOS THE JACKAL and Chris Smith’s BLACK DEATH.

Screen Siren Pictures is an established award winning Vancouver based production company that focuses on international co-productions. Helmed by Trish Dolman and Christine Haebler they have recently produced projects for Entertainment One, Alliance Films, Anchor Bay, Hasbro, BBC, A&E, ARTE, and Channel 4 their most recent productions include DAYDREAM NATION, FOREVERLAND, CLUE and ECO PIRATE.

At Cannes, The Solution will also be presenting a full slate of new titles to buyers including WRITERS currently in post-production starring Greg Kinnear, Jennifer Connelly and Lily Collins, produced by Informant Media and Judy Cairo; the thriller GRAND PIANO produced by Adrian Guerra and Rodrigo Cortes and starring Elijah Wood and John Cusack; the thriller FELONY starring Joel Edgerton and the espionage action thriller NOVEMBER MAN starring Pierce Brosnan and Dominic Cooper to be directed by Roger Donaldson and produced by Irish DreamTime and Das Films.

The Weinstein Company announced today that they have acquired U.S. rights to political documentary THE OATH OF TOBRUK. The film, directed by renowned French philosopher, journalist and filmmaker Bernard-Henri Levy, was made over the eight-month period of conflict that put an end to Muammar Gaddafi’s reign in Libya. Levy documented the unfolding of the war and the spontaneous popular revolt that became a revolution through the efforts of the Libyan people in their country and in major cities including Paris, London and New York. The course of action taken by the Libyan people that was revealed in THE OATH OF TOBRUK exemplifies how ideas and convictions can change the course of history in the form of a political and humanitarian intervention that had otherwise seemed impossible. The announcement was made today by TWC Co-Chairman Harvey Weinstein, who fully supports the film and sees this acquisition as a political action that could provide hope for other countries in a similar state of peril including Syria.

On Friday, May 25, the Cannes Film Festival will present a special showing of the film, which is an Official Selection of the festival. Four key figures of the Libyan revolution, who have been invited by Levy, will attend the screening to dedicate their achievement in Libya to their Syrian friends.

Said Levy, “For me, Harvey Weinstein is not simply THE ARTIST. He is the producer who helped launch Amnesty International in the United States; the man who fought capital punishment with the weapon of cinema; and the one who defended Roman Polanski in the face of those who wished to lynch him. This Weinstein, I am happy to learn, is joining Studio 37 in the adventure of THE OATH OF TOBRUK.”

Said Weinstein, “This wonderful movie shows BHL’s incredible courage and the strength of former French president Nicolas Sarkozy, and also highlights the invaluable leadership from President Barack Obamaand Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. American audiences will get a behind-the-scenes glimpse of how our government and the French government worked together to stop the slaughter of innocent civilians and brilliantly handled the overthrow of a government.”

The film was produced by Studio 37, a financier of Academy Award© Best Picture winner THE ARTIST, Margo Cinema and Arte. Rezo is currently selling remaining territories.

Dynamic international distribution company Lightning Entertainment has picked up international rights to two new feature films making their market premieres; the comedy WHOLE LOTTA SOLE starring Brendan Fraser (THE MUMMY franchise) and directed by Oscar winner Terry George (HOTEL RWANDA) and KIKORIKI: TEAM INVINCIBLE, the Russian 3D animated-adventure comedy film from the Riki Group and produced by Timur Bekmambetov (WANTED), it was announced today by Robert Beaumont, President of Lightning Entertainment.

The dramatic comedy WHOLE LOTTA SOLE world premiered at the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival and received rave reviews from critics, whilst KIKORIKI comes to the market hot on the heels of its impressive $8.5 million box office run in its native Russia.

“Lightning continues to acquire top-notch material to present to international buyers with WHOLE LOTTA SOLE from the talented Terry George and the Russian animated adventure, KIKORIKI: TEAM INVINCIBLE from powerhouse producer Timur Bekmambetov,” commented Beaumont. “Both films are highly accessible, crowd-pleasing and most importantly, thoroughly entertaining features with universal appeal,” he continued.

Acclaimed Irish filmmaker George won an Oscar this year for his live-action short film, THE SHORE starring Ciaran Hinds.  George has been nominated twice before;  Best Original Screenplay for Don Cheadle starrer HOTEL RWANDA which he also directed and produced and Best Adapted Screenplay for IN THE NAME OF THE FATHER co-written with Jim Sheridan and starring Daniel Day-Lewis, which was nominated for an additional six Oscars. He also directed Focus Features’ RESERVATION ROAD starring Joaquin Phoenix, Mark Ruffalo, Jennifer Connelly and Mira Sorvino.

WHOLE LOTTA SOLE tells the story of Jimbo, who in a misguided attempt to protect his family and pay back gambling debts to the local mobster, robs a fish market which is owned by the same gangland boss Mad Dog Flynn and finds himself in a hostage standoff surrounded by the police.

Martin McCann (CLASH OF THE TITANS) stars as Jimbo alongside leading comedic actor Fraser (THE MUMMY franchise), Colm Meaney (THE DAMNED UNITED), YaYa DaCosta (THE KIDS ARE ALL RIGHT) and David O’Hara (HARRY POTTER AND THE DEATHLY HALLOWS: PART 1).

WHOLE LOTTA SOLE is written by Thomas Gallagher and George, who also produces with Simon Bosanquet (upcoming ROMEO AND JULIET), David Gorder (X MEN: THE LAST STAND) and Jay Russell (THE WATER HORSE). WME is handling domestic rights in the US.  Richard S. Guardian negotiated the deal for Lightning Entertainment and is serving as a consultant on the film for Lightning.

3D animated film, KIKORIKI: TEAM INVINCIBLE is an family friendly adventure comedy produced by Ilya Popov and veteran producer/director Timur Bekmambetov, the director/producer behind Universal’s hit action blockbuster WANTED starring Angelina Jolie and 20^th Century Fox’s upcoming ABRAHAM LINCOLN: VAMPIRE HUNTER, produced with Tim Burton.

Based on the internationally successful Russian animated series of the same name, this first film in the series is written by Alexei Lebedev and directed by Denis Chernov. The English language version screening at the market is written by a US team led by Mike de Seve, who was a storyline consultant on two of DreamWorks’ worldwide box office animated hits, SHREK THE THIRD and MONSTERS VS ALIENS.   KIKORIKI: TEAM INVINCIBLE marks the first full-length Russian film production to be made in stereoscopic 3D.

The film centers on the lovable inhabitants of the remote island of Kikoriki. They have it all: big laughs, good friends, and a distant paradise unspoiled by modern woes. But the lives of the Kikoriki gang are suddenly turned upside-down when they stumble on a strange device they had only heard about – a television.

Lightning’s high profile Cannes slate also includes LOVE AND HONOR starring Liam Hemsworth (THE HUNGER GAMES) making its market debut in Cannes; the star-studded comedy STRUCK BY LIGHTNING starring Glee’s Chris Colfer and Rebel Wilson (BRIDESMAIDS) which emerged as a hit at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival and also makes its market debut in Cannes; the comedy THE HOT FLASHES starring Brooke Shields, Daryl Hannah, Virginia Madsen, Camryn Manheim and Wanda Sykes; the comedy SERVITUDE starring Joe Dinicol (the CW’s The L.A. Complex), written by Michael Sparaga (SIDEKICK) and directed by acclaimed film director Warren P. Sonoda (TEXTUALITY), also screening for the first time at a market; the thrillers BLACK SOUTH-EASTER and ONE LAST LOOK and family film HEAVEN’S DOOR starring Charisma Carpenter (upcoming THE EXPENDABLES 2) and Joanna Cassidy (HBO’s Six Feet Under). Lightning will also screen Australian sci-film, THE 25^th REICH starring Jim Knobeloch, Dan Balcaban and Jak Wyld and will be showing first footage from THE HOT FLASHES, ONE LAST LOOK and HEAVEN’S DOOR.

I still cant believe we have to wait until November 21st to see RISE OF THE GUARDIANS. P.S. Alec Baldwin is SERVING the accent! Worth the price of admission alone!

In the meantime check out these photos of Chris Pine, Isla Fisher, Alec Baldwin and Director Peter Ramsey at a press conference for DreeamWorks Animation’s RISE OF THE GUARDIANS at the Cannes Film Festival on May 16th, 2012.

RISE OF THE GUARDIANS is an epic and magical adventure that tells the story of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, the Tooth Fairy, the Sandman, and Jack Frost – legendary characters with previously unknown extraordinary abilities. When an evil spirit known as Pitch lays down the gauntlet to take over the world, the immortal Guardians must join forces to protect the hopes, beliefs and imagination of children everywhere.

(Left to right) Jack Frost (Chris Pine), North (Alec Baldwin), Sandman, Tooth (Isla Fisher) and Bunnymund (Hugh Jackman) band together to defeat Pitch (Not pictured / Jude Law) in DreamWorks Animation’s RISE OF THE GUARDIANS to be released by Paramount Pictures. RISE OF THE GUARDIANS © 2011 DreamWorks Animation LLC. All Rights Reserved.

Meet the Guardians, beloved childhood legends and heroes with extraordinary abilities. Explore their magical worlds and discover their legendary mythology in the Rise of the Guardians app, now available  now available on the App Store: http://itunes.apple.com/app/rise-of-the-guardians/id517250596

Like Rise of the Guardians on Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/RiseoftheGuardians

Get to know the characters! Visit the Official Rise of the Guardians Website:  http://www.riseoftheguardians.com/ 

Follow on Twitter: @DWAnimation

The Cannes Film Festival opened today! While visiting Cannes, General Aladeen took a much needed break from his hard life of “dictatoring” to spend some quality time with supermodel Elisabetta Canalis (George Clooney’s former girlfriend) aboard a luxury yacht at the Hotel du Cap. The always controversial Sacha Baron Cohen, dressed as his alter-ego, and Elisabetta were presumably having a good time until she slapped him. In the prank Aladeen and his bodyguard threw Clooney’s ex over the side in a bodybag.

Before all the hijinks began, The Dictator arrived to much fanfare at the Carlton Hotel in Cannes. Aladeen drove to Canal+ with guest Sasha Volkova for Le Grand Journal on May 16th 2012 in Cannes France.

THE DICTATOR is in theaters now.

Visit the Republic of Wadiya’s official site: http://www.republicofwadiya.com/

“Like”ť it on Facebook:  www.facebook.com/RepublicOfWadiya

Follow on Twitter: @RepublicWadiya

“Get your goddamn tongue out of my goddamn cousin’s mouth!”

Who’s up for a “thrill-a-minute, body-piercing, computer sex, sapphic, car-crashing extravaganza”? Then come check out the next TROMA NIGHT AT THE WAY OUT CLUB on May 18th when we’ll be showing the 1996 classic TROMEO AND JULIET. Set in New York City, the tale centers on the Ques and the Capulets. The bitter feud begins when father Capulet steals father Que’s Silky Films production company. As enemies, the two warring clans are always doing horrible things to each other. Tromeo Que is a computer nerd who spends much time fondling himself in front of his favorite sexy CD-ROMs until he falls in love with lovely Juliet and proposes to her while she sits upon a toilet. WARNING: this film features violence, considerable gore, tattooed hellions, hardcore punkers, nymphomaniacs, profanity, vulgar situations (featuring buckets of fake vomit), and the graphic depiction of body piercing. (Of course, if it didn’t, it wouldn’t be a Troma film).

Stick around for the next Troma film, the 1980 drive-in standard MOTHER’S DAY, which developed something of a cult following after its initial release, and no small amount of controversy — many feminist groups denounced its depiction of violence against women, while writer and director Charles S. Kaufman contended that he intended for the film to be viewed as a satire (those feminists have no sense of humor!). Three women find their worst nightmares have become a reality in this horror film that combines extreme violence with dark, absurdist comedy MOTHER’S DAY. Abbey (Nancy Hendrickson), Jackie (Deborah Luce), and Trina (Tiana Pierce) have been close friends since their college days, and they decide to celebrate their tenth class reunion by taking a vacation together. The women go camping in the woods of rural New Jersey; however, an idyllic few days in the great outdoors turn ugly when they’re ambushed by a pair of subnormal thugs, Ike (Holden McGuire) and Addley (Billy Ray McQuade). Ike and Addley live in a garishly decorated hovel deep in the woods, where they gorge themselves on sugar, obsessively watch television, debate the merits of punk rock versus disco, and strictly obey the instructions of their aged Mother (Rose Ross) — a vicious psychopath who goads her boys into acts of rape and murder, with Mother shouting encouragement throughout. When one of the women is killed by Ike and Addley, the other two escape, and they plot a gruesome revenge.

ADMISSION IS FREE! The show starts at 9pm on Friday, May 18th so join us for bad films, good films, good people, gory films, Troma trivia with door prizes, lots of cold beer and drinks, and yummy Way Out pizzas available for only $8. Did we mention that ADMISSION IS FREE? See you at The Way Out (2525 Jefferson Avenue in South St. Louis)!

DEADFALL is bound to get comparisons to FARGO. With a few minor script tweaks and slightly different accents, this could have been passed off as a direct to DVD sequel. It is not that there are any similar characters or storylines but more so in the look and feel of the film. Had this been FARGO 2, I’d call it a worthy successor although I’m sure others will want my head on a platter (or my body in a woodchipper) for saying that. Prior to seeing the film, I heard some strongly negative feedback and was even told to avoid it completely by someone who attended an earlier press screening. Since then I’ve noticed a slew of negative reviews calling it an absolute mess and much worse. Honestly, I don’t know why everyone is ranking on this film so much because I loved the hell out of it.

DEADFALL opens with a car crash. Addison (Eric Bana) and his sister Liza (Olivia Wilde) make it out alive but their driver is not so lucky. Addison kills the first cop on the scene while Liza stuffs a bag full of the scattered money they just stole from a casino. They decide to split up as they each attempt to make it across the border. Addison ends up killing his way through the woods and Liza uses her looks to secure a ride with Jay (Charlie Hunnum) to his family’s cabin near the border. It is Thanksgiving and he is going to see his mom (Sissy Spacek) and dad (Kris Kristofferson) despite their strained relationship. Problem is Jay just got out of prison and may have accidentally killed a former business partner who refused to give him the money he owes. Addison faces some obstacle himself with the police after him investigating the murder of the trooper he killed. Despite the wishes of her father / police chief  (Treat Williams), among the search party is the very capable Hanna (Kate Mara) who just so happens to be old friends with Jay and his family.

Believe it or not, there are even more side stories and important characters that I’ve chosen to excise for time. Yes, the film is convoluted. Yes, it has moments of needless complications and mass coincidence. Yes, it can be a bit campy and has heavy-handed moments that feel a bit forced. Yes, the fairly incestuous relationship between Addison and Liza is a bit weird. Yes, the insanely sexist attitudes within Hana’s police department feel horribly outdated. Yes, I’m starting to see why some people didn’t like this film after typing all that.

But none of that really matters because DEADFALL is damn fun. And the single biggest aspect that will suck you in and keep you watching no matter how ridiculous things get is Eric Bana. If this film came out before KNOCKED UP, this would be the movie they were all toasting to in the nightclub. Eric Bana’s performance is brilliantly twisted and wildly unhinged without ever going too far over the top. Addison is a badass who does some truly awful things with a wink and a smile. The film has plenty of other great things going for it like some wonderful visuals, thrilling action set pieces, the beautiful Kate Mara, and unnecessary Olivia Wilde nudity. But the only real reason you need is ERIC F***ING BANA!

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

ANY DAY NOW may have a story that seems fitting for a Movie of the Week but that doesn’t change the fact that it is a incredibly well crafted film full of surprisingly powerful performances. Paul (Garret Dillahunt) is a closeted District Attorney and Rudy (Alan Cumming) is an aspiring singer currently working as lead in a drag performance at a gay bar. When Rudy’s negligent junkie neighbor ends up in jail, he looks after her son Marco (Isaac Leyva), a teenager with Down syndrome. Family Services places Marco in a foster home but Rudy soon finds him wandering the streets and takes him in once again. With temporary custody approved by Marco’s mother, Rudy and Paul begin raising him as their own. But when it is discovered Rudy and Paul are not cousins but a gay couple, they face a harsh legal battle to keep Marco in the safe and loving family environment they created for him.

Garret Dillahunt is probably best known for continuing the long-standing tradition of hilarious TV dads on Fox’s RAISING HOPE. I do not watch the show nearly as often as I’d like but he is consistently funny whenever I do. I haven’t noticed him in much else so it was a very pleasant surprise to see that just like Bryan Cranston (another former scene-stealing TV dad), Dillahunt is just as gifted a dramatic actor as he is comedic. He has a strong presence in the film and some truly great chemistry with the equally talented Alan Cumming. This may be Cumming’s best performance to date or at least his most powerful. Newcomer Isaac Leyva is truly captivating as Marco, almost immediately forming a deep connection with the viewer.

Travis Fine also deserves much praise for his expert handling of this story. Not only does he prove himself a very capable director but his writing is sharp and full of emotion. Credit for the script also belongs to George Arthur Bloom who originally wrote it over 40 years ago, which was the basis for Fine’s rewrite. It can be extremely difficult to find the right balance of humor for a film like this but the light touches throughout feel completely natural and welcomed. The only time I was a little caught off guard was the introduction of Don Franklin as a quite comical lawyer who shows up in the third act. At first he seemed to walk in from a different movie but he actually adds a lot of necessary levity that eases us into the finale.

The film takes place in the 70s but its underlying themes are just as relevant today. Full of fantastic performances, this is certainly a film that will have some buzz around it come Awards season. As someone who tends to avoid movies that require a box of Kleenex with ticket purchase, I cannot recommend this movie enough. Go see it, even if you are a cold heartless bastard.

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

THE GIANT MECHNICAL MAN was a bit of a letdown for me. While enjoyable as is, the film never lives up to its full comedic potential, which is a real shame considering the talent involved. In a role written to play to her strengths, Jenna Fischer is the confused, mild-mannered Janice who finds a job selling grape drinks at the zoo. Apparently the zoo is a beacon of hope for the unemployed because this occurs the day after Tim (Chris Messina) walks in and instantly gets a job there after his girlfriend dumps him. (Seriously, is it really that easy to get a job at a zoo?) Tim also has an interesting hobby / side job of painting himself silver, wearing stilts and walking around as the titular Giant Mechanical Man. A friendship forms between the two just as Janice’s overbearing sister (Malin Ackerman) tries to set her up with a motivational speaker / author played eerily well by Topher Grace.

TGMM is a romantic-comedy that tries to be a lot deeper than it really is and that is where it falters. It works best when dealing with the rom-com aspects of the story but gets weighed down by mostly unnecessary dramatic beats that feel too repetitive. I can’t help but feel like this film would have been far more entertaining if all the main characters were not so damn depressed most of the time. I also found myself wondering why Tim didn’t just tell Janice that he was the mechanical man after she not only mentions her respect for him but also visits him while he’s in character. It seems they were saving the revelation for a fairly anti-climatic finale although it probably would have been far more entertaining watching Janice cover up and ultimately explain (especially to her sister) that she’s dating the often-ridiculed street performer.

I guess the fact that I am still wondering what could have been means there was enough substance actually in the film to hold my interest more than a week after watching it. With that in mind, I’ll recommend giving TGMM a chance. It is worth watching at least once anyway if only for Topher Grace’s crazy good take on a motivational speaker or Rich Sommer as his biggest fan.

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

Dyer Straits Productions (DSP) presents year three of St. Louis’ only pop-culture, horror and sci-fi convention on June 15-17, 2012. Contamination 2012 3D takes place at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport and is bigger and better with film icons, TV stars, models/Playmates, super heroes, ghost hunters, filmmakers and musicians.  Peter “Chewbacca” Mayhew (“Star Wars”) and a cast reunion of the original “The Munsters” TV show (Butch “Eddie” Patrick & Pat “Marilyn” Priest) are headlining this year along with an impressive lineup of icons at this highly anticipated follow-up event.

In addition to super heroes The Flash (John Wesley Shipp) and “Shazam’s” Captain Marvel (Jackson Bostwick), horror fans will get their fix with Michael Berryman (“The Hills Have Eyes 2”), Planet of the Apes enthusiasts will be able to meet Linda Harrison (Nova) from the Original “Planet of the Apes & Beneath the Planet of the Apes” along with Don Pedro Colley (“Ongero”) from “Beneath the Planet of the Apes,” plus many more (full list on their website).

Fans of all genres will get a total “Celebrity” experience with a weekend full of options: a chance to meet the celebrities, get autographs and pictures and a lucky few will even get to know their favorite celebrity one on one at an intimate dinner overlooking the Lambert Airport landing strip.  Contamination’s 24 Hour Grindhouse Cinema returns…a new 3D haunted attraction has been added…take a ride in “The Munsters” Koach Kar…be amazed by burlesque and side show acts…party in the pool Friday night… get your dance on at ”Club Chaos” Saturday night…shop in the dealer room all weekend…attend seminars with the celebs and filmmakers…and end the weekend with a live charity auction to raise money for “Scares That Care.”

Tickets for the weekend convention are available online now for a discount, but prices will be higher when purchased at the door. A limited amount of VIP Passes and Celebrity Dinner tickets are available online while supplies last. Vendors can reserve a spot, sponsorship packages are still available and discount rooms at the Renaissance St. Louis Airport are still available.  Much more information can be found on the DSP website. Check the site and their Facebook page for updates and a complete list of celebrities, artists, filmmakers, musicians and vendors

The successful events that began this new tradition in St. Louis – Contamination 2010 and Contamination 2011: The Sequel – have featured film legends from popular horror series such as “Halloween,” “Friday the 13^th,“”Texas Chainsaw Massacre” and “Candyman,” cult favorites “The Boondock Saints,” pop culture icon Larry Thomas “The Soup Nazi” from “Seinfeld,” Grammy winning G Tom Mac, sports legend Ken Norton and showcased one of the most recognized cars in the world – The Batmobile.

Visit the official site: http://www.con-tamination.com

“Like” on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ContaminationSTL 

Follow on Twitter:  http://twitter.com/horrorscificon

With a title like YOUR SISTER’S SISTER, I was expecting to see something more along the lines of a Nicholas Sparks or Danielle Steel adaptation rather than the truly hilarious and heartfelt sort-of romantic-dramedy it turned out to be. Jack (Mark Duplass) has had a rough time dealing with the death of his brother, which happened exactly one year ago. Jack’s best friend / late brother’s ex, Iris (Emily Blunt), gives him the keys to her father’s remote cabin for a little alone time to relax and reflect on his life. Once there, he discovers Iris’ sister Hanna (Rosemarie DeWitt) is already staying at the cabin after ending a 7-year relationship with her girlfriend. After a drunken night of confession, Jack and Hanna sleep together only to be woken up the next morning by the arrival of Iris, who decided Jack shouldn’t be entirely alone after all. You may think you know where this is going but the film will still surprise you.

YOUR SISTER’S SISTER is done in the same loose and largely improvised style of Lynn Shelton’s previous films; however, it feels much more refined here. This is partly due to an upgrade in equipment but it also seems like Shelton has grown as a filmmaker both in terms of storytelling and visuals. True, there is not much story to work with but the three main characters are fully realized and a joy to watch, which is great considering they are the only ones on screen for the majority of the running time. Mark Duplass, Emily Blunt and Rosemarie DeWitt are all fantastic, bringing their roles to life with a naturalistic but never ordinary approach. Most of the comedy stems from their rapid-fire dialogue, which is equally witty and earnest.

The film is not without flaws but they are so minimal in comparison to all that it gets right. While the editing is fairly tight for this kind of style, there are a few moments that tend to linger on just a little too long, especially during a montage towards the end. Speaking of the end, I personally felt it concluded perfectly but those who prefer everything to be wrapped up may be upset when the credits begin scrolling. The story may not be the most original, nor are some of the situations, but the manner in which they are presented in makes it all feel fresh and authentic.

Despite being a fan of Shelton’s HUMPDAY and this film’s solid cast, I was just not really looking forward to seeing this. I really think the title played a large part in that but the less than riveting description found in the Tribeca guide probably didn’t help either. On the advice of several people at the festival, I gave the film a chance and I’m so glad I did. Not only was it one of the best films there but also one of the finest I’ve seen this year. IFC Films will be releasing the film next month and I highly recommend you make an effort to seek it out.

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

Oscar Svendsen (Kyrre Hellum) wakes up in a seedy strip club, underneath the body of a dead oversized stripper, and surrounded by cops. What follows is the story of how he got there told mostly through flashbacks while being investigated by a very thorough and incredibly compelling detective (Henrik Mestad). This is a tale of lottery, greed, corruption and fake recycled Christmas trees.

JACKPOT is bloody good fun, pure and simple. It is a pitch black Norwegian comedy that tosses around clever dialogue and dead bodies with glee. The structure is similar to films like THE USUAL SUSPECTS and there are familiar elements throughout, although it all still feels fresh and fun. Jo Nesbo’s writing is sharp and each character is a good mix of quirky and dangerous. Director Magnus Martens handles the material quite well and strikes a good balance of comedy, blood splatter and intrigue. There are some really great visual gags including some set up early that lead to fine payoffs later on. I’d rather not spoil any of them but my favorite is on display at the very end of the trailer below if you are curious. Personally, I suggest only watching the trailer up to the title card if even that far.

If this sounds at all like a film you want to see, I highly recommend seeking it out rather than wait for the (most likely) inferior American remake, which is always a strong possibility with films like this.

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

EDDIE – THE SLEEPWALKING CANNIBAL is a fun little dark comedy that will surely find a nice audience although it might not rise to a level of cult phenomenon that one might think based on the deliriously twisted plot. Lars Olafssen is a former well-known artist who lost his muse 10 years ago. Finally content with not painting anymore, he takes a small teaching gig in Koda Lake, Canada where he ends up also having to care for Eddie, a seemingly harmless handicapped adult played perfectly by Dylan Smith. Eddie was traumatized as a child by the death of his parents so he no longer speaks. He also has a tendency to wake up in the middle of the night, shed his clothing down to his tighty-whities and eat people while still asleep. This would be horrible if not for the fact that seeing Eddie’s carnage somehow triggers a creative response in Lars, leading him to start painting again.

One of the things I absolutely hate about movies set in the art world is that often people are depicted as creating their so called masterpiece and when you see the artwork, it is nothing special. A large part of EDDIE is Olaf’s paintings yet they are given the golden briefcase treatment, meaning we never actually see them. This is one of the many things the film gets right. It knows exactly what to show, as evidenced by the very brisk pacing and perfectly short running time. While the film may not always be nonstop hilarity or thrills, it is certainly never dull. I do agree with some other people’s sentiments that the film gets better the bloodier it becomes but I think the restraint from showing much gore at first works thematically as both Eddie and Olaf strive towards their magnum opus. There are a lot of other little details in the film that work equally well, such as the running joke of the radio DJ commenting on how each of the classical music pieces played throughout the film directly correlate to tragedy and scenes of death.

Rather than spoil any more surprises, let me just recommend checking out EDDIE when it finds some sort of a release. This is a damn fun film and despite the outlandish concept, it is easy to relate to especially for creative types. There’s no telling how far some artists will go to get their muse back…

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

I will throw myself onto the altar as a sacrificial lamb so that fellow critics much better than I do not fall prey to using the following super cheesy & painfully obvious opening statement in their future reviews of this film. Remember me as a hero…

Much like the parked ice cream truck Jess Weixler finds herself stuck in for the majority of the running time, FREE SAMPLES goes nowhere. Yes, I know that’s bad. It’s the sort of line your friendly neighborhood entertainment guru will say in his segment on the local news in attempt to be clever. Unfortunately it does perfectly apply to the film. Hungover and unsure of pretty much everything in her life, Jillian (Jess Weixler) finds herself working all day parked in a vacant lot handing out free samples of an ice cream-like substance to a cast of quirky characters. There are a few subplots including a distant “kind of” fiance, a quick-witted guy she met the night before (Jessie Eisenberg), and a friendship with an elderly patron (Tippi Hedren).

In the end, there is some very minor character growth but it is in no way a substantial arc. This would be fine if the journey was entertaining but even at 80 minutes, the film seems to drag its feet far too often. This is not the fault of the actors; everyone seems to do well with what little material they have to work with. Jess Weixler channels her inner Winona Ryder as the smart yet irritatingly bitchy Jillian and Jason Ritter seems to have fun as Wally. Jessie Eisenberg is on his game as a much more confidant version of the character we have seen him play many times before. Sadly many of the hilariously quirky characters that show up for free ice cream fail to be hilarious or even relevant to the story in any way. The jokes falling flat could be due to poor delivery but it is more likely due to the script that could have used a bit more love before cameras started rolling. There are a few really good moments, namely the ones with Jason Ritter and Jessie Eisenberg, but they do not appear nearly often enough to save this slow mess.

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

With a title like DON’T STOP BELIEVIN: EVERYMAN’S JOURNEY, one might expect a fairly cheesy music documentary that would only appeal to fans of the band. Instead we are treated to a fairly fascinating real life fairy tale where a struggling musician from the Philippines is chosen to be the new lead singer of world famous rock group he has been a fan of since he was a kid. Arnel Pineda had dozens of videos on Youtube of himself performing cover songs, including many of Journey’s biggest hits. Guitarist Neil Schon came across these videos while in the midst of searching for a replacement for their lead singer who was forced to leave the band for medical reasons. This documentary covers everything from Arnel’s initial auditions to the conclusion of their very first tour together as the new & improved musical juggernaut that is Journey.

DON’T STOP BELIEVIN is an inspirational film detailing Arnel’s struggles both before and after joining the band, as well as the subtle changes within the band after his inclusion. One of my favorite moments in the film came when he performed his first full concert in a crowded arena in Chile. Prior to going on stage, he is a wreck asking to go home but once the lights kick on, he owns the stage. Then afterward he is told not to go so crazy on stage because Journey’s music is not meant to be performed that way. He apologizes then tells the cameras that they will get used to it. Arnel really is just a captivating and entertaining presence who is a joy to watch.

My biggest and only real criticism is that the doc does feel its running time of close to 2 hours. There are plenty of little things that could be trimmed to tighten up the pacing although I’m sure Journey fans will want to see it as is. There will probably be some sort of editing depending on the type of release this gets even if just to remove the surprising amount of f-bombs dropped throughout. It also would have been nice to get the opinions of some former band members on the new lineup although I understand how that may not have been possible in some cases. Their absence is not really noticed while watching the film and is more of a curiosity I had after the credits rolled.

You don’t need to be a Journey fan to enjoy this film although you need to at least be able to tolerate them because their music is on constant rotation throughout the film. I would consider myself only a casual listener but I will admit that since watching the film, I thought about buying their greatest hits CD. Then I found out my dad already had one so I just borrowed it from him. Now that’s a scary thought, isn’t it?

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com

Whichever distributor picks this film up is going to have a hell of a time figuring out the proper way to market this beast. RESOLUTION tells the story of Michael (Peter Cilella) who attempts to get his former best friend Chris (Vinny Curran) to leave the burnt out shell of a house he is living in and go to rehab. When Chris refuses, Michael handcuffs him to the wall and plans to wait the seven days it will take for the drugs to clear out of his system. During the course of the week, some strange characters show up including drug dealers, Indian reservation security, and members of a local cult. With Chris suffering from extreme withdrawal, Michael cares for him while piecing together various forms of media he finds scattered throughout the surrounding woods that seem to be hinting at a much bigger story. Oh, and it’s a comedy, albeit a fairly dark one. As I said, not an easy sell but I truly hope someone rises to the challenge because this film deserves to be seen.

Similar to THE CABIN IN THE WOODS in that it is a film that works best with the audience knowing as little as possible going in, I will not reveal anything else about the plot. If you are at least intrigued by the film, I suggest you don’t even watch whatever trailers they eventually release for fear of spoilers. I genuinely had no idea where the film was headed next and that is a rare feat nowadays. Full of clever twists and witty dialogue, the film culminates in what may be the most spectacularly meta ending in cinema history. I know the meta term scares some people but it really works in this film.

The script is sharply written by Justin Benson, who also did an equally fantastic job co-directing with Aaron Moorhead. Visually intriguing, utilizing interesting camera and editing techniques, the film has a great look and feel that really enhances the story it is trying to tell. Peter Cilella and Vinny Curran get the bulk of the screen time, which is great since they have excellent chemistry and are totally engaging to watch. These are really breakout performances for each of them and I look forward to seeing more of them in the future. I am also looking forward to future collaborations between Moorhead and Benson because these guys seriously know what they are doing.

Not that this means anything but of the 18 features I saw, RESOLUTION is my favorite film of the 2012 Tribeca Film Festival.

Jerry Cavallaro – @GetStuck – JerryCavallaro.com