23.5 MB - Metro Newspapers
Transcription
23.5 MB - Metro Newspapers
2|CINEQUEST March 3, 2004 Dear Friends, It is my distinct pleasure to welcome you to the 14th annual Cinequest San José Film Festival. Over its life in San José, Cinequest has become a valuable cultural institution renowned for serving the film community around the world as well as Silicon Valley. Movie lovers, artists, students and businesses eagerly anticipate the innovations in the art of telling stories and capturing life on film that Cinequest brings to us every year. Cinequest continues to expand its service to our community even during these challenging economic times with its exciting college mentoring programs, arts education for elementary and high school students, an ongoing membership series, a summer outdoors screening series, and a screenwriting competition. Cinequest adds tremendous value to the richness of this region and is an important part of the economic vitality of San José. The films, forums and events you will experience at this year’s festival represent the maverick tradition of exploration, discovery and category-defying that has evolved here in San José, the Capital of the Silicon Valley. Please accept my best wishes for the continued success of Cinequest and my congratulations to all the filmmakers, speakers and partners who are participating to make this year’s festival the best ever. Sincerely. Ron Gonzales Mayor American Airlines Is Proud To Sponsor Cinequest 2004. Feel Like A Star On American Airlines. Get A Great Low Fare. And A Lot More Airline. To find out more about American, visit us at AA.com. American Airlines, American Eagle and AA.com are marks of American Airlines, Inc. American Eagle is American’s regional airline affiliate. www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST |3 Dear Friends, “It takes a wise man to discover a wise man.” - Diogenes There are many reasons to go to Cinequest: experiencing the latest films from America and abroad, talking with the hundreds of artists in attendance, meeting people from around the world, accessing the future of film and media technology, exchanging ideas with people from all walks of life, enjoying many parties and celebrations, challenging yourself with new and diverse perspectives and simply having a great time. There is one aspect of Cinequest that is becoming more and more important in the ever-changing world of film festivals: that of DISCOVERY. Many festivals promote discovery, but at Cinequest you will truly find it. Cinequest’s program focuses on movies that are new, fresh, innovative, original — Maverick. If you look at Cinequest’s lineup, you will not find a rehashed program from other festivals, nor will you find a lineup heavy on quasi-indie work. At Cinequest, you will find the personable and soul-stirring environment of discovery that made the world’s greatest festivals — it is still alive and thriving here. Cinequest has countless world and United States premieres with their ground-breaking artists in attendance, and YOU can be the FIRST to discover these movies. I welcome you to enjoy the most electric movies, seminars, forums and parties yet unleashed by Cinequest. Halfdan Hussey Executive Director and Co-Founder Inspiring the Maverick in All of Us Cinequest is Northern California’s premier motion picture institute that presents a soul-stirring and personable discovery festival of international films and digital media forums for movie lovers, Maverick film artists and film students. Cinequest also produces and operates Cinequest Motion Picture Studio, Youthquest, Cinequest Screenwriting Competition and the Cinequest Membership Program. Named one of the Top 10 Film Festivals in the world by the Ultimate Film Festival Survival Guide, Cinequest joined Cannes, Toronto, Telluride and Sundance with this honor. Cinequest 14 will occur March 3 – 14, 2004 www.cinequest.org TABLE OF CONTENTS Opening Night Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Closing Night Gala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Cinequest Partners . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Life of a Maverick Fundraising Event, Arnold Schwarzenegger . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 Maverick Spirit Event, David and Janet Peoples . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 Maverick Spirit Event, Kurt Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Maverick Competition, Emerging Mavericks/New Visions, Cinequest 14 Jury . . 15 DXD, Digital Media Forums . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Professional Movie Making Forums, Day of the Writer, Day of Distribution, Scriptwriting Competition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 Global Landscapes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Special Presentations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 Alphabetized Film Descriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23-53 Short Film Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 51-53 Membership . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Venue Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55 Diners Circle and Festival Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56-57 Board of Directors, Staff and Contributors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Schedule . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60-61 Ticket Information . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 62 ©2004 Cinequest, Inc. All rights reserved. Photography by: Dane Andrews, Ellen Carstensen, Shawn-Paul Gilbert, Judie Gordon, Bill Maxey, alanmercer.com (Lupe Ontiveros on back cover), Kathleen J. Powell and Mike Rabehl. tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 4|CINEQUEST Arts S A N J O S E M A R R I O T T, ARCADIA& THE ARTS The San Jose Marriott Hotel and ARCADIA Restaurant are enthusiastic supporters of The Arts in San Jose. We encourage you to take advantage of all the wonderful cultural opportunities our city has to offer. ARCADIA OPENS TO RAVE REVIEWS! “★★★” Michael Bauer, San Francisco Chronicle “Exuberant Flavor” Sheila Himmel, San Jose Mercury News Whenever you enjoy The Arts, we invite you to join us for our special prix-fixe dinners and brunches. Nothing feeds the soul like The Arts. And nothing sets the stage for a wonderful evening like a fabulous dining experience at ARCADIA. “Delicious and Playful” Mel Kelley, Oakland Tribune Chef of the Year, Michael Mina has created a dining experience of sophistication and surprise in downtown San Jose. Come see (and taste) why the food critics are raving about Arcadia. For reservations: 408.278.4555 301 South Market Street • San Jose 408.280.1300 • www.sanjosemarriott.com www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST 301 So. Market Street, in the new San Jose Marriott Hotel Please call for reservations: 408.278.4555 |5 CINEQUEST OPENING NIGHT GALA UNITED Director Magnus Martens; Producers Håkon Øverås, Aagot Skjeldal; Screenwriter Magnus Martens; Cinematographer Jakob Ingimundarson; Editor Knut Erik Andreassen; Composer Arild Lindeflaten; Cast Håvard Lilleheie, Berte Rommetveit, Vegar Hoel, Ole-Jørgen Nilssen, Gjert Haga, Sondre Sørheim; 85min/35mm/Norway; Norwegian with English subtitles Cinequest is thrilled to present the North American Premiere of director Magnus Martens’ magnificent United, an inspiring tale of becoming a hero when you’re the underdog. Childhood sweethearts, Kåre and Anna, have been living together for years in a small town in Western Norway. They have no children, no dog, no cat, no goldfish and no hamster. ednesday, March 3rd; 7:30 p.m. an Jose Repertory Theatre nd Street between San Carlos and San Fernando arty with Filmmakers follows at an Jose Marriott an Jose Ballroom 01 South Market Street 08.280.1300 remiere Screening & Party: $50 no screening only tickets) Kåre has always had two dreams: to play professional soccer and to marry Anna at Old Trafford. At age 26, Kåre is still with Anna, but he is merely holding a warehouse job at the local shipyard and coaching a group of little league level kids — a has-been that never was. Even worse, when his old rival, Stian, returns as a successful business big shot to save the shipyard, Kåre is confronted with possibly losing his job and the fact that Anna has had about enough of his lack of initiative. Can Kåre become the man he has always dreamed of being? Director Magnus Martens’ magnificent United is a romantic comedy that will have you rooting for Kåre on his own personal field of dreams. It’s time for football, dreams about love, rivalry and Western Norway at its best. After the film, please join Cinequest, filmmakers and special guests for a spectacular Opening Night Gala party featuring appetizers, desserts, cocktails and entertainment in the San Jose Ballroom at the San Jose Marriott. CLOSING NIGHT GALA THE CONSCIENTIOUS OBJECTOR Director Terry L. Benedict; Producer Terry L. Benedict; Executive Producer Gabe Videla; Cinematographer Terry L. Benedict; Editor Jeff Wood; Composer Bob Christiansen; 100min/DVCPro/United States Cinequest’s closing night films have always sought to challenge, entertain and sometimes even push the limits. Unlike any story you have heard before, the story of Desmond T. Doss is one of the year’s most personal stories — a story of faith, heroism and bravery. unday, March 14th; 6:30 p.m. orris Dailey Auditorium an Jose State University the intersection of Fifth and San Fernando arty with Filmmakers follows at ake’s Steakhouse and Bar N. San Pedro Street 08.298.9221 Flaherty’s Irish Pub 5 N. San Pedro Street 08.947.8007 remiere Screening, Awards & Party: $50 remiere Screening & Awards only: $15 Doss seemed an unlikely candidate for a Medal of Honor. A devout member of the Seventh-Day Adventist Church, Doss sought to keep true to his religious beliefs despite his position in the 77th Infantry Division during World War II. Refusing to take up arms, Doss resolved not to kill but instead save lives as a medic. His determination to honor the Sabbath and spend Saturday in prayer was met with hostility. Disgusted, many were hell bent against having Doss on the battlefield. So devoted to saving the lives of wounded soldiers — including many of those who ridiculed him, Doss displayed almost super-human strength and bravery behind enemy lines without ever using a weapon. Hollywood has wanted to tell this story for over fifty years, but it was filmmaker Terry Benedict who finally gained Doss’s trust. The Conscientious Objector provides a riveting and unforgettable portrait of a man who held true to his beliefs, in the face of intolerance, to become a hero. Following the screening and awards ceremony, join Cinequest, filmmakers and special guests for a Closing Night Gala extravaganza in San Pedro Square hosted by Blake’s Steakhouse and O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub. Mingle with other film lovers and enjoy an assortment of food, drinks and music at each venue. Meredith Sherter Benston tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 6|CINEQUEST www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST tix 408.295.FEST |7 www.cinequest.org 8|CINEQUEST E X E C U T I V E PA R T N E R S ¤ G O L D PA R T N E R S V E N U E PA R T N E R S M E D I A PA R T N E R S S I L V E R PA R T N E R S B R O N Z E PA R T N E R S ® SPECIAL THANK YOU ARTSCAPES / YOUNG FRAMING ■ BARBRO OSHER PRO SUECIA FOUNDATION ■ CASTELLANO FAMILY FOUNDATION ■ COMMUNICATION RENTAL SERVICES ■ BARNABY DALLAS ■ DOLBY LAB0RATORIES FALLON HOUSE ■ FIRST CLASS MAILING ■ GRAND ILLUSIONS ■ GRAPHIC ARTS WEST ■ HOTEL DE ANZA ■ INNERCITY EXPRESS ■ EDDIE LIRA AND INPRINT CORPORATION ■ JOHN MCENERY IV ■ KTEH VIDEO I MARIN FRENCH CHEESE COMPANY ■ MCCANNAN MARKETING ■ NORWEGIAN FILM INSTITUTE ■ STINE OPPEGAARD ■ PRUNEYARD INN ■ RED BULL ■ SAN JOSE CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU SAN PEDRO SQUARE PROPERTIES ■ SMITH AND MCKAY PRINTING ■ ROB STILES OF GOONSQUADINC.COM ■ TAGER GROUP ■ THARP DID IT ■ THOMAS VINCZE MEDIA ■ WAVE GROUP SOUND THIS PROGRAM HAS BEEN MADE POSSIBLE IN PART, THROUGH GRANTS FROM THE FOLLOWING: ARTS COUNCIL SILICON VALLEY ■ THE CITY OF SAN JOSE ■ KNIGHT RIDDER FOUNDATION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST |9 CINEQUEST LIFE OF A MAVERICK: THE GOVERNOR OF CALIFORNIA, ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER Samuel A. Maverick died in 1870. Maverick was an American pioneer who did not brand his calves. Cinequest Maverick Spirit events have honored many of the world’s most accomplished directors, producers, actors, cinematographers, editors and composers. Cinequest now has the very rare privilege of honoring a person whose life epitomizes the concept of Maverick over a spectrum of career and human endeavors. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s American story began as a nineteen-year-old immigrant in the tradition of forging a new life and new visions on American soil. Over the next decade, Schwarzenegger revolutionized the sport of bodybuilding, an interest rooted in the urgings of his policeman father while growing up in the small, Austrian village of Graz. Through innovative training, Schwarzenegger sculpted a work of art, his body. He dominated the sport not only with the most renowned physique but also with his unique blend of laser focus, supreme determination and charisma—claiming the title of Mr. Universe at the young age of 20 and ultimately winning the Mr. Olympia title seven times! Throughout his life, Schwarzenegger has been known for setting specific goals for himself — and always achieving them. Soon after his success in the sports world, Schwarzenegger set his sights on the prize in a new field: acting. In the seventies and eighties, he shined in some of the most cutting edge films of the time: Terminator, Conan the Barbarian and Stay Hungry, which won him the Golden Globe Award for Best Acting Debut in a Motion Picture. With each role he assumed, each part he played, Schwarzenegger brought us in touch with the shadow side as well as inspiring through superhuman feats — ultimately becoming one of the biggest and most popular actors of the 20th Century. Schwarzenegger uses his influence to better society and humanity. In addition to his extensive work with children and his position as Chairman of the President’s Council on Physical Fitness, he twice received the Simon Wiesenthal “Humanity Prize” for his ongoing efforts to increase Holocaust awareness and has been an active supporter of the Special Olympics, among other charities. Then, the most Maverick chapter of his extraordinary career: In 2003, Schwarzenegger desired to change the face of California. Beating incredible odds, he assumed California’s highest office, Governor. As with everything else he accomplishes, he brings heart, desire and brilliance to his political life. Please join our Governor in supporting Cinequest’s services and benefits to students, Maverick artists, movie lovers and our economy. Event date, time, ocation and price will be announced on or after February 14 at www.cinequest.org and 408.295.FEST. Note that festival VIP Passes will not include this special event ticket. It is difficult enough to succeed in one major career; Schwarzenegger is swiftly on his way to proving himself in his third. And he has done it in the tradition of Samuel A. Maverick — with no brands. Join Cinequest for this rare and electrifying event with a legend, a leader and a humanitarian. Event details: Tom McEnery, former Mayor of San Jose and Chair of Cinequest during its formative decade, will moderate a conversation with Governor Schwarzenegger emphasizing the Governor’s amazing life. Select audience questions will follow. Lastly, Cinequest will present the Governor with our Maverick Spirit Award. LIFE OF A MAVERICK is a very special fundraising event for Cinequest. The event is tentatively scheduled to occur during Cinequest, but sensitivity to the Governor’s schedule must be respected. Halfdan Hussey tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 10|CINEQUEST www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST |11 CINEQUEST AN AFTERNOON WITH DAVID & JANET PEOPLES: HEROES, MONKEYS AND THE UNFORGIVEN “We have a rule: you have to finish writing anything you start. If you get stuck, you just have to force yourself to write it through to the end.” – David and Janet Peoples The old adage “location, location, location” is generally alive and well in Hollywood that, when pursuing a career in the film business, aspiring film industry mavens need to live, work and schmooze Hollywood’s players and pretenders. Far away from Hollywood’s hazy sunsets and arcing spotlights, however, nestled in the lush green hills of Berkeley, California, screenwriters David and Janet Peoples have successfully rooted themselves in the film industry as artists with myriad impressive credits. Their removal from the factory that is Hollywood gives the Peoples the advantage of not being forced to churn out scripts but provides the breathing space for their meticulous writing technique and detailed work towards writing perfection. Noted for writing dark, complex characters in Unforgiven and Blade Runner, as well as 12 Monkeys, the Peoples have helped set the stage for a generation of morally ambiguous characters — which would be seen reflected in works by filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino or the Coen Brothers. David and Janet’s collaboration as scriptwriters began on the Oscar-nominated The Day After Trinity, a documentary about the making of the first atom bomb that examines the “human potential for self-destruction and the dangers of blind faith in technology.” In 1982, David’s feature script was brought to the screen in the Ridley Scott directed Blade Runner, an adaptation of Philip K. Dick’s much admired novel; a film that would raise the eyebrows of not only science-fiction fans everywhere, but studio executives as well. In 1992, Unforgiven, a script that floated around Hollywood for nearly twenty years, garnered an Oscar nomination for screenwriting and gave actor and director Clint Eastwood his finest vehicle in years. A modern Western, Unforgiven presents a somber view of humanity where good guys are rarely simply ‘good’ while bad guys are redeeming, even human, while responsible for despicable deeds. A few short years later, the Peoples would see their 12 Monkeys (dir. Terry Gilliam) on the screen — a film inspired by the 1962 French short film, La Jetée. As in Blade Runner, the Peoples “returned to their themes of trials of strength, ruined futures and fights against malevolent bureaucracy.” Please join Cinequest and David and Janet Peoples for a special Maverick Spirit Award presentation in their honor on the Day of the Writer. Friday, March 12; 2:00 p.m. Morris Dailey Auditorium San Jose State University $10 Enormously versatile storytellers who always challenge and respect their audience, the Peoples have displayed their imaginative work in such films as Hero (dir. Stephen Frears, starring Dustin Hoffman and Geena Davis), Leviathan (starring Peter Weller and Amanda Pays), Soldier (starring Kurt Russell), Ladyhawke (dir. Richard Donner, starring Matthew Broderick, Rutger Hauer and Michelle Pfeiffer) and The Blood of Heroes, an amazingly intricate post-apocalyptic story which David Peoples also directed — and quite frankly puts almost all other films in the genre to shame. “Despite this healthy output, neither David nor Janet sees themselves as genre writers. Their varied and idiosyncratic film projects reveal them as moving targets, never settling in one esthetic place and refusing to be pegged. Though their films are invariably distinguished by the presence of [dark] underlying themes, the Peoples always ensure that they also contain a strong storyline. Their films manage to be both pessimistic and optimistic allegories of a mankind bent on self-destruction, yet offering characters who, against the odds, find the inner fortitude to go on.” Cinequest is proud to honor David and Janet Peoples as Maverick Spirit Award recipients for telling compelling, thoughtprovoking stories that make audiences consider multiple points of view. Please join us March 12th when these successful, celebrated artists will share personal perspectives on screenwriting and filmmaking. Mike Rabehl tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 12|CINEQUEST It happens at the Hilton TM A Proud Sponsor of Cinequest… The Hilton San Jose & Towers connected to the McEnery Convention Center in downtown San Jose rises 18 stories overlooking the Silicon Valley. A contemporary architecture awaits you featuring original artwork from the San Jose Museum of Art.The hotel combines the high-tech excitement of Silicon Valley with genuine hospitality. Combining airport convenience with a downtown location just minutes from the San Jose Mineta International Airport and Fortune 500 companies, as well as walking distance to the HP Pavilion at San Jose - home to the NHL San Jose Sharks and San Jose’s newest Lacrosse team the San Jose Stealth, the Tech Museum of Innovation, Civic Auditorium, Center for Performing Arts, Plaza de Cesar Chavez, and downtown’s finest restaurants - you’ll find the perfect destination for business or pleasure. Visit The City Bar & Grill for cocktails or to enjoy American Grille dining. Perfect for that casual breakfast, lunch or dinner including our City Room available for groups of 3 - 30. For personalized guest service please consider Hilton San Jose & Towers for your next: Wedding, Reunion, Corporate Meeting, Overnight Accommodation, Anniversary Package, Getaway Weekend, whatever your need, we can make it happen at the Hilton. For reservations call the hotel directly at 408-287-2100, 1-800-HILTONS, or make reservations online at www.sanjose.hilton.com. *Mention this ad and receive double Planner Points for all qualified bookings. Hilton San Jose & Towers 300 Almaden Boulevard San Jose, CA 95110 Voice: 408.287.2100 Fax: 408.947.4488 www.sanjose.hilton.com Fox Sports Net Reading is Cool www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST |13 CINEQUEST AN EVENING WITH KURT MILLER: EXTREME MAVERICK “You can only do four things on skis: you can turn right, turn left, go straight or sell them.” – Warren Miller Form and content are the standard measures of art. Extreme movie making legends Warren and Kurt Miller have pushed the edge in bringing some of our most exhilarating film content to us in the most breathtaking style. But that’s not all that’s made them Mavericks to the extreme: they have forged alternative ways to break through the traditional Hollywood barriers affecting film exhibition and distribution — thus serving their rabid and loyal audience. Warren and Kurt created the most successful action sports film company in history. Synonymous with “going to the limit” before there was a notion of extreme sports, the Millers ventured to the planet’s limits, capturing the world’s greatest athletes as they pushed the limits of human ability. Miller ski films feature incredible mountain scenery, fastpaced action, thrilling ski runs down steep terrain, deep, fresh powder and crazy tumbles. And their surfing, snowboarding, sky diving and other extreme sports movies offer even more thrills, fun and on-the-edge inspiration. The Miller legacy had a modest beginning in 1950, while Warren worked at a new resort, a place called Squaw Valley. There wasn’t much to this now giant in the ski industry, just one chairlift and two rope tows. Earning extra money by taking still photos of guests during his lunch hour, Miller saved enough to buy a 16mm camera and made his first feature-length ski movie. There wasn’t much of a budget, a mere $600. Yet it was a start, the start of something huge. Above: Photo by selkophoto.com Right: Photo by Travix Andersen Without the backing of the standard means of exhibition, the Millers used innovative marketing techniques to sell tickets and get films screened in non-traditional theaters, like high schools and community centers across the globe, creating a huge cult-following. Worldwide recognition of the Warren Miller brand allowed production to expand and diversify into a wide range of film and video productions including feature films, direct-to-video, television and documentaries. A consummate entrepreneur, Kurt Miller’s similar passion was instrumental in expanding Warren Miller’s audience through his unique marketing efforts and the creation of additional properties and media. For the last fifteen years, Kurt owned and managed Warren Miller Entertainment, serving as President and Chairman. He was also involved in producing and directing the company’s last 15 annual feature films. After selling Warren Miller Entertainment to AOL/Time Warner in 2002, Kurt Miller formed Synergy Group – specializing in creating, managing and promoting live events throughout the world. Now Kurt is launching another venture, Regal CineMedia, which has the potential to offer new and revolutionary ways to exhibit independent films theatrically. Event includes: Best of Warren Miller Films presentation Conversation with Kurt Miller Maverick Spirit Award Presentation Thursday, March 11; 9:00 p.m. Morris Dailey Auditorium San Jose State University $15 A native of Southern California, Miller grew up surfing and sailing. He has raced all over the world. When he is not skiing, he enjoys scuba diving, fishing, sailing and mountain biking. Miller lives with his wife, two children and two dogs in Boulder, Colorado. He is an active supporter of breast cancer research and the U.S. Disabled Ski Team. Wicked! Halfdan Hussey tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 14|CINEQUEST www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST |15 CINEQUEST Cinequest Offers You The World “Riveting”… “Inspiring”… “Amazing”… if only we could count the number of times we have heard those exact words when audiences have described the films they have seen at Cinequest. Over the years, all sorts of things have been said about the Cinequest Film Festival: too much of this, not enough of that…or vice versa. We take this to mean we are doing our job by keeping the spectrum broad and our selection eclectic. Cinequest 14 is no different, offering over 165 films from around the world, placed into different sections that have been organized to reflect the festival’s overall spirit, its desire to bring the world to your doorstep, its objective to discover new voices in cinema and its Maverick sensibilities. It is the Maverick spirit and the eclecticness of the program that are Cinequest’s hallmarks and have made the festival so interesting for film lovers and professionals. MAVERICK COMPETITION Cinequest’s 2004 Maverick Competition represents 22 countries and, with 15 narrative feature films, 12 documentaries and 73 short films, is a perfect, dynamic blend of genres, cultures and visions. Renowned, local artist Carlos Perez created Cinequest Film Festival’s Maverick Spirit Award that truly reflects the Maverick spirit in the cinematic arts. Awards in this section will be given for Best First Feature, Best Feature Documentary, Best Short Documentary, Best Short Narrative and our top prize, the Maverick Spirit Award — awarded to the feature narrative that the jury feels is the most bold, the most personal and the most Maverick. EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS Otherwise known as our discovery section, Emerging Mavericks & New Visions shines its spotlight on emerging talents in modern cinema. Sometimes controversial, often provocative and always unpredictable, these 15 films run the gamut of erotic fantasy, graffiti art, absurd tales of Hungary, endearing Chaplin-esque puppeteers, zombies, serial killers, underground mine workers in South Africa and so much more… Films in the Emerging Mavericks & New Visions section will be eligible for the Director’s Award: Emerging Mavericks & New Visions, awarded to the director whose vision reveals an exceptional talent to watch for in the future. The Maverick Competition Jury is: Narrative Features Documentaries and Short Films Mitch Levine: Mr. Levine is a film and stage director, designer and actor with credits in theatre, opera and dance and most recently was the Executive Director and CEO of the Palm Springs International Film Festival. Recipient of the first AFI/American Express James Cameron Fellowship in Directing, he was the founding producer and host of Cinema’s Legacy: How Great Filmmakers Inspire Great Filmmakers for the AFI. He has a degree in Political Science from Hobart College, served on the staff of the Juilliard School following a fellowship there and is currently on the faculty of the University of Judaism in Los Angeles, teaching Art, Literature and Political Science. Alisa Katz: Ms. Katz earned her Bachelors Degree in Visual Arts: Media, with an emphasis in film and video from the University of California, San Diego. She also attended the Film Academy of Prague where she wrote, directed and produced a short film, The Lesson. Her career has included serving as the Feature Film Programmer for the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, as well as working with the Cannes Market. Currently, she is in post-production on Fox Searchlight’s feature film, The Clearing, as well as developing future projects. Timothy Near: Ms. Near is in her sixteenth season as Artistic Director of San Jose Repertory Theatre. Her twenty-five directing credits at the Rep include award-winning productions of Wintertime, “ART,” and Thunder Knocking on the Door. She also has acted and directed at many of America’s most renowned theatres. She contributed significant leadership as well as artistic and technical guidance to the design and building of San Jose Rep’s new theater and is a recipient of the Woman of Achievement in the Arts Award, given by the San Jose Mercury News and The Women’s Fund. San Jose Magazine included Ms. Near in the top 100 list of Influential People in Silicon Valley in 2001, 2002, 2003. Scott Sublett: Mr. Sublett is an assistant professor at San Jose State University, where he teaches screenwriting and film history. He holds an M.F.A. in screenwriting from UCLA and a B.S. in radio/TV/film from Northwestern. He is the author of ten screenplays and winner of two screenwriting prizes: the Carl David Memorial Fellowship and the David Gattone Award. For seven years, he wrote for The Washington Times, where he served as film critic, book reviewer and entertainment feature writer. The independent feature Pizza Wars, which he co-authored, was shown at Cinequest two years ago. Yahia Mahamdi: Mr. Mahamdi studied Cinema at the University of Sorbonne in Paris, where he directed a documentary. He worked as a camera person for independent productions in France and the United Nations Department of Public Information. Holding a PhD in Radio, Television, Film from the University of Texas at Austin and an MFA in Film from Columbia University’s Film School, he is currently a professor at Santa Clara University where he teaches filmmaking and film history and criticism. He has just completed a feature length documentary on workers’ compensation in Silicon Valley and is working on a short film on the war in Iraq. John Halecky: Mr. Halecky was a cinema and photography major at Ithaca College. After graduation, John moved to Los Angeles where he worked at International Creative Management (ICM), as well as Paramount Studios. John also worked at Warner Bros. Worldwide Feature Film Acquisitions & Co-Productions scouting for potential new projects. John wrote, produced and directed a short comedy film and co-produced a feature length documentary. He joined IFILM’s Programming Department in 2000 and has been instrumental in the procurement and placement of a number of top short films for them. tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 16|CINEQUEST CINEQUEST DXD (DIGITAL BY DIGITAL) Empowering the Maverick: Expanding Creative and Delivery Possibilities Presented by Panasonic INSPIRING THE MAVERICK IN ALL OF US For years, making movies was about exposing film to light. Distributing movies was about limited access to a traditional and restrictive system. Then along came digital technology, and now all bets are off. The entertainment world is changing at lightning speed, and Cinequest DXD is the conduit for what’s up and what’s to come. Get ready to be inspired, wowed and eye-popped. DIGITAL CINEMA Digital Cinema Experience: Four screens featuring state-of-the-art digital technology will showcase the latest and greatest in digital cinema. Of particular note is Panasonic’s High Definition Theatrical Projectors which provide the first affordable HD digital solution. DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM I: New-School Delivery and Distribution FILMS TO THE FANS Digital Motion Pictures: See the alphabetized write-up section for descriptions and schedules for the following international features, representing a wide range of digital formats and applications: This exciting, leading-edge forum will show you that real alternatives NOW exist to deliver feature length-films at High Definition and DVD quality directly to their fans. With over a billion Internet users, and a swamp-load of them having or attaining broadband capacity, there is truly a New-School approach to distribution forming, and the possibilities are truly empowering to the Maverick artist. 30 Miles - World Premiere Imelda The Loss of Nameless Things - World Premiere Madness and Genius Sad Spanish Song - World Premiere Vote for Me! Presenter: Mike Homer, Chairman, Kontiki Delivered to you by Kontiki OK…we’ve heard it before: “The Internet will change the face of distribution of movies and open new opportunities for independent filmmakers to break the studio monopoly on delivering films to their fans.” But the claims have yet to produce real alternatives at high-end quality…or have they? Join moderator Mike Homer (Chairman of Kontiki) and a powerful panel of the leading Maverick minds in delivery technologies while they open your horizons as a movie maker, producer or viewer. Thursday, March 11; 7:15 p.m. University Theater DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM II: HD Post Strategies For Digital Cinema THINK SMART Delivered to you by Video Arts Smart artists are constantly seeking cutting-edge, post-production technologies that allow them to push the envelope without unloading their cash reserves down the drain. Smart artists pay heed to Video Arts and their razor-sharp insight regarding High-Definition post strategies: formats, conversions and pathways, and how they will be utilized in the future. Before you shoot one frame, you’d better know where you’re heading after the wrap. Compare different digital formats up-converted to HD, how the look and feel of film differs from digital cinema, and how to minimize costs and maximize image quality in post-production. Think, experience, win. Video Arts is a leading San Francisco based, digital studio providing design, animation, special effects and editing services for advertising, broadcast television and corporate communications. In 2003, Video Arts embarked on a major, studio-wide restructuring to create San Francisco’s first full-service HDTV post-production studio, adding two HD edit suites, HD graphics platforms, and featuring the Teranex-Xantus HD format converter as its technical cornerstone. Presenters: Kim Salyer, President and David Weissman, General Manager, Video Arts Friday, March 12; 5:30 p.m. University Theater www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST |17 CINEQUEST DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM III: High-End, Low-Budget DV Cinema 48-HOUR MOVIE MAKING Delivered to you by Panasonic Broadcast and Avid Is it possible to create a sophisticated, professional movie in just two days? With use of Panasonic’s DV to DVD solution and Avid’s Xpress Pro editing technologies, participating Cinequest artists will deliver a high quality movie with an inexpensive budget, within 48 hours during the festival. Then, Panasonic’s Stuart English and Avid will present a very special forum demonstrating both the movie as well as the extremely affordable yet high-end technologies used to make it. They have to turn out something great — from conception, production, editing to screen — in just two days. Not a home movie that a group of neighborhood kids could put together with an old Super 8 from Grandma’s attic, but something professional, entertaining and Maverick. A filmmaking team consisting of Cinequest directors, film professionals, editors and actors will utilize a cutting-edge Panasonic DVX-100 (DV-24p) or SDX-100 (24p) digital camera to capture a short film. The team will then edit using Avid’s DV Xpress Pro software, and the final product will be pressed on affordable DVDs via Panasonic. The dynamic moviemaking forum will explore the technologies and present the methods, strategies and technologies used to create the short film. Filmmakers will also be on hand to answer questions and offer user feedback. Presenters: Stuart English, Vice President, Panasonic Broadcast and Representatives from Avid Technologies Saturday, March 13; 5:00 p.m. University Theater DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM IV: All Digital Movie Making Opportunities MAKING MOVIES THE PLASTERCITY WAY Delivered to you by PlasterCITY The most common mistake with digital filmmaking is the attempt to insert digital video into the traditional process designed for film. With all the new tools and technology available for digital capture and post production, an entirely new strategy must be considered. From DV to HD, PlasterCITY’s Michael Cioni and Ian Vertovec demonstrate money saving alternatives made possible by breakthrough technology for the independent, Maverick filmmaker. Presenters: Michael Cioni, Post Production Supervisor and Ian Vertovec, High Definition Head Technician PlasterCITY Sunday, March 14; 12:15 p.m. University Theater DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM V: The Color of Digital VIBRANT PALETTE Delivered to you by Fujifilm Munchkinland would have looked like hell in black and white. Color has always been a key factor in film communication — visually evoking the emotional impact and complexities of the story. But color in film has long been a concern for every production department on any movie set — from makeup, costume design, lighting, film format and beyond. Think of the nightmare MGM had in getting Dorothy’s red shoes, lipstick and hair not to clash with the Lollypop Guild, and you’ve got the picture. This vibrant panel will consist of filmmakers, including at least two to three members of the visual team (Director, Cinematographer and Production Designer) to discuss the effect of color in movie-making, focusing on the differences between film and digital media, as well as the evolution of color in movies. Explore the new techniques used by film artists, new standards and concerns of color in digital movies, and the emergence of new tools for directors and cinematographers to use color in movies more effectively. Digital Media Forum I: NewSchool Delivery and Distribution Delivered by Kontiki Thursday, March 11; 7:15pm University Theater San Jose State University $10 Digital Media Forum II: HD Post Strategies for Digital Cinema Delivered by Video Arts Friday, March 12; 5:30pm University Theater San Jose State University $10 Digital Media Forum III: 48-Hour Movie Making Delivered by Panasonic and Avid Saturday, March 13; 5:00pm University Theater San Jose State University $10 Digital Media Forum IV: All Digital Movie Making Opportunities Delivered by PlasterCITY Sunday, March 14; 12:15pm University Theater San Jose State University $10 Digital Media Forum V: The Color of Digital Delivered by Fujifilm Sunday, March 14; 2:30pm University Theater San Jose State University $10 Presenter: Representative from Fujifilm Sunday, March 14; 2:30 p.m. University Theater tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 18|CINEQUEST PROFESSIONAL MOVIE MAKING FORUMS Movie Making Forum I: Day of the Writer WRITE YOUR STORY, MAKE YOUR STORY PART I: SCRIPTWRITING 101 – THE NUTS AND BOLTS OF STORY DEVELOPMENT Determining which characters and events are most valuable while developing your script can be the hardest challenge for any scriptwriter. Barnaby Dallas, Head of Production and Professor of Scriptwriting at San Jose State University, will present the key tools for developing a master screenplay. You’ll learn practical, usable information on how to find the best plot line for a script, choose significant characters, use dialog and other essential strategies vital to understanding how to create a successful screenplay. PART II: FROM SCRIPT TO SCREEN – ENSURING YOUR MOVIE GETS MADE How to approach the movie marketplace and ensure your screenplay goes from paper to live action is a formula not yet solved by most film artists. James Dalessandro, a leading screenwriter, will discuss the process of enhancing your movie beyond the boundaries of a simple script, as well as what elements are crucial to getting a movie made. Find out what industry professionals are looking for from a respected Hollywood source. James Dalessandro has sold more than a dozen feature films, including 1906, an epic tale of the San Francisco Earthquake, which was sold to Time Warner in 1998 after a major Hollywood bidding war. He has sold three books, including the acclaimed San Francisco mystery, Bohemian Heart, 1906 and the true-crime drama story, Citizen Jane, which he will produce for a Movie of the Week. Dalessandro has been a screenwriter and novelist for over 18 years having taught over 500 students in the past few years. He is also set to direct his first feature film, Borderline, which he also wrote. PART III: INSPIRATIONAL WRITING MAVERICKS – DAVID AND JANET PEOPLES An inspirational Maverick Spirit Award event centered on powerhouse screenwriting couple, David and Janet Peoples, best known for their collective works including, Blade Runnner, 12 Monkeys, Leviathan and Unforgiven. Enjoy a lively conversation moderated by local Santa Clara County public defender, Robert Phelps, where David and Janet Peoples will discuss aspects of writing for the big screen. Cinequest will present its coveted Maverick Spirit Award to this legendary screenwriting duo. Moderator, Robert Phelps grew up in Orange, CT. He graduated summa cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania with a major in communications and from Hastings College of the Law. Robert works as a deputy public defender in Santa Clara County. Currently, Robert is working on a feature story about the cover-up of the crimes committed during the 1906 earthquake for national syndication as well as several scripts including Face Mask, a feature length film about arena football. Movie Making Forum I: Day of the Writer WRITE YOUR STORY, MAKE YOUR STORY Friday, March 12, 2004 University Theater San Jose State University $20 9:30 a.m. Part I: Scriptwriting 101 – The Nuts and Bolts of Story Development 11:00 a.m. Part II: From Script to Screen – Ensuring Your Movie Gets Made 2:00 p.m. Part III: Inspirational Writing Mavericks – David and Janet Peoples (Additional individual tickets available for Part III for $10) Movie Making Forum II: Day of Distribution DON’T JUST MAKE A MOVIE, SELL IT, TOO Saturday, March 13, 2004 Hal Todd Theater San Jose State University $20 10:00 a.m. Part I: Producing a Movie that Sells 12:30 p.m. Part II: Selling Your Movie Movie Making Forum II: Day Of Distribution DON’T JUST MAKE A MOVIE, SELL IT, TOO PART I: PRODUCING A MOVIE THAT SELLS Taking a script and turning it into a motion picture are a major achievement, BUT making an independent movie that is seen and sold is an achievement of a different feather. For greatest success, promoting and distributing your movie start in the development stage. Peter Belsito, co-founder and executive vice president of Film Finders, will moderate a panel of buyers, producers, and distributors discussing how to produce a movie while incorporating the elements and strategic planning necessary to realize an audience. The script-to-screen process will be thoroughly discussed from the producer’s point of view. Most filmmakers focus most of their energies on making their story, their idea, and assume that the rest will take care of itself. Belsito and company will explore the proven strategic methods of experienced producers who know that the end success tends to start in the very beginning. PART II: SELLING YOUR MOVIE So you made your movie; now what? Peter Belsito will moderate a second panel of sales experts discussing historical and leading-edge methods of getting a movie sold and distributed at home and abroad. How does a producer best create a strategic sales plan and execute it? What is the role of a producer’s rep? Compare a sales agent versus a distributor. What is an international sales company compared to a domestic distributor? What about the various media: Theatrical, DVD, TV, Internet? How does one best secure sales and distribution worldwide? How can film festivals help? What about industry screenings? What do attorneys do? And consultants? Publicists? MODERATOR: PETER BELSITO Long-time Cinequest friend, Peter Belsito is the co-founder of Film Finders, the standard acquisitions tracking tool utilized worldwide, that has the reputation throughout the film business for quality and comprehensiveness of information. Belsito was the founding member of the Independent Feature Project (IFP) in New York and Chicano Cinema Coalition. His produced documentary, Valley of Tears, is currently playing the festival circuit and is being distributed in the U.S. by Seven Arts. www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST 14 SCREENWRITING COMPETITION In its inaugural year, the Cinequest 14 Screenwriting Competition received submissions from 271 screenwriters around the globe. During September through December, jury members selected 10 electrifying scripts for the final phase of competition. A final jury of leading industry professionals will choose three winners to be announced opening night of Cinequest 14. The finalist screenplays are: Breaker, Lisa Robinson, Alex MacInnis Fugacity, Vita Lusty Johnny Pigskin, Tom Carmody, J.T. O’Neal Lucky Boy, Carl Pfirman Marcus, Steve Warren Mister Dunbury’s Exotic Lunatic Caravan , Peter Alton The Bridge Café, Tifa Boss The Devil Protects His Own, Kris Hall The Ghosts Of Bull Run, Steve Warren The Imperfect Cell, Lance Hammer CINEQUEST |19 GLOBAL LANDSCAPES Our most exciting Global Landscapes to date offers artistic views from 28 artists and spans the globe to bring some of the most exciting new world visions. Each film in the entire Cinequest program is wildly different from the rest, but Global Landscapes is always a special group, spotlighting specific countries or regions whose influence has a global impact on the art of cinema. The 2004 Global Landscapes program includes a Focus on Norway, our Latino Film Celebration and the Applied Materials Pacific Basin Showcase. Films in this section are eligible for the Director’s Award: Global Vision, awarded to the filmmaker who defies borders and exhibits work of universal vision, making bold use of storytelling to create evocative cinema for the future Applied Materials Pacific Basin Showcase Although it takes a film like Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon to wet the mainstream moviegoer’s appetite for cinema from the Eastern world, few audiences ever get a chance to see more of the ground-breaking Maverick work being produced by contemporary Asian filmmakers. The Pacific Basin Showcase, presented by Applied Materials, draws some much-needed attention to the work of these undiscovered artists by spotlighting films from all over Asia and the Pacific. These films run the breadth from heart-wrenching (China’s Cala, My Dog! and Sri Lanka’s August Sun) to poignant (Japan’s The Man Who Wipes Mirrors) to romantic (China’s When Ruoma Was Seventeen and Korea’s Rewind) and represent the wide spectrum of subject matter explored by today’s Asian Mavericks. Feature-Length Films August Sun Cala, My Dog! The Man Who Wipes Mirrors Rewind When Ruoma was Seventeen (Sri Lanka) (China) (Japan) (Korea) (China) United States Premiere United States Premiere United States Premiere Focus on Norway 2003 was one of the most dynamic and successful years in the history of Norwegian cinema, reaching the highest audience numbers in thirty years and creating not simply a buzz in the industry (along with major distribution deals), but also passionate audiences at festivals worldwide — garnering many awards and accolades for Norwegian films. In cooperation with the Norwegian Film Institute, Cinequest presents a glorious look at as-of-yet-undiscovered treasures, audience favorites and distinctive tales of romance, dreams, friendship, patriotism and revenge. Our Focus on Norway showcases five feature narratives, one feature documentary and two short films. They are films of great power, films from great storytellers and films that inspire. Feature-Length Films Buddy Destination Moscow Jonny Vang The Man Who Loved Haugesund Play United (Opening Night) North American Premiere North American Premiere North American Premiere North American Premiere Short Films Caravan United We Stand Focus on Norway was programmed with the gracious assistance of: Stine Oppegaard Head of International Relations Norwegian Film Institute Latino Film Celebration In response to the continued interest in Latino cinema, Cinequest is delighted to present another exciting year for our Latino Film Celebration. Demonstrating the depth of artistry and variety of subject matter explored by Latino filmmakers, this showcase offers a view of some of the fresh new voices exploring original themes in innovative ways. These Maverick filmmakers explore themes ranging from patriotism to opera, parenthood to fighting to love whom we want and much, much more. Haunting, mesmerizing and always stunning, they are films that must be experienced. Latino Film Celebration films curated by Sylvia Perel, Founder and Director of Latino Film Festival, San Francisco Bay Area with special help from Gwyndolyne ‘G.G.’ Geddes, Associate Director of Programming, Latino Film Festival, San Francisco Bay Area. Feature-Length Films Bedtime Fairy Tales for Crocodiles Caballé Beyond Music - United States Premiere The Last Zapatistas Life Leaves Marks Love Hurts The Mystery of the Trinidad Short Films Brusco Despertar Contratiempo La Cumbre El Excusado Ligerita El Pez Dorado E Pur Si Muove Sus Demonios Volarte CASTELLANO FAMILY FOUNDATION Established 2001 tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 20|CINEQUEST celebrating the imagination By encouraging expression through the arts, we celebrate our creativity and diversity. www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST |21 San José State University Television, Radio, Film and Theatre Offering Bachelor’s degree programs in: Theatre Arts Radio-TV-Film Master’s degree in: Theatre, Film and Television Act on stage and film. Make films. Edit digital video. Be on KSJS-FM. Produce and direct. Write screenplays. Design a Web site. Research media. Think critically about the entertainment and information media. Join us now. 408-924-4530 www.TVRadioFilmTheatre.com tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 22|CINEQUEST SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS Cinequest 14 proudly offers six special presentations — an eclectic mixture of lost treasures, thought-provoking cinema, comedy-horror and spotlight on local filmmakers. Often the most original, the most innovative, the most complex, the most deeply felt art does not find immediate recognition. It does not gain the instant recognition of lesser accomplishments because the work is ahead of its time or simply does not find the audience that “gets it” right away. The remarkable film, Being, was such a case upon its initial viewing in the early nineties, when it was seized by the Soviet censors and then sat shelved in the archives for nearly ten years. Therefore, it is our honor and privilege to shine a new light on the power of Being, the first light this film has seen in our United States. Best known for films like Silence of the Lambs, Stop Making Sense and Philadelphia, Jonathan Demme’s work has been nominated for 20 Academy Awards. His latest achievement, The Agronomist, is a long-cherished personal film about journalist, broadcaster and human rights activist, Jean Dominique, and his tireless fight against injustice and oppression—the story of his uncompromising crusade for liberty and democracy in the vibrant country of Haiti. Both a fascinating political story and a haunting, emotional journey, The Agronomist is the riveting portrait of a champion that no one will ever be able to forget. Always one to surprise, never one to back down from bringing his vision to life, Christopher Coppola (Bel Air, Palmer’s PickUp) presents the United States Premiere of his latest Digi-Flick, The Curse of Bloodhead, a gripping comedy-horror adventure that masterfully captures the intense struggles with money, prejudice and youth. Starring an array of 70s actors ranging from Bernie Kopell (“Doc” on The Love Boat) and Lynda Carter (Wonder Woman) to Frank Gorshin (The Riddler from Batman) and Mrs. Partridge herself, Shirley Jones, The Curse of Bloodhead is, without a doubt, a film that will keep audiences mesmerized until the last second. Returning to Cinequest, Cupertino-raised Phil Leirness (The Party Crashers) presents the North American Premiere of Spectres, a drama and a mysterious ghost story that displays Leirness’ unique talent for drawing complex characters balanced with stylish, entertaining cinema. The tale of a family torn apart by the death of a parent stars Marina Sirtis (Star Trek: The Next Generation), Dean Haglund (The X-Files), Tucker Smallwood (Star Trek: Voyager) and Lauren Birkell. And Cinequest’s Special Presentations would certainly not be complete without a look at local filmmakers, with the presentation of San Jose Shorts, a series of short films featuring Shawn Flanagan’s (Friggin’ Mafia Movie) The Greatest Challenge, Peter Carter’s Local Time and Seirgan Benjamin’s Doyle. www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST |23 30 MILES "1" "1" Goingdigitalfilms, LLC 15 Hunting Tr Chagrin Falls, OH 44022 United States P: (650) 387-5782 [email protected] www.gdfilms.com 3/5, 7:15pm (REP) 3/6, 9:30pm (REP) 3/6, 7:15pm (REP) 3/7, 4:45pm (REP) Director Tim O’Hara; Producers Michael Bragin, Gavin Davis; Executive Producers Gavin Davis, Tim O’Hara; Cinematographer Tim O’Hara; Editors Rachel Morse, Tim O’Hara, Jessica Ringel, Composers Danny Hulsizer, Christopher Kemp; 89min/HD-CAM/United States Director Ryan Harper; Producers Ryan Harper, Rusty Gray, Cliff Gober, Josh R. Jaggars; Screenwriter Cliff Gober; Cinematographer Amit Bhattacharya; Editor Randy Carter; Composer Andrew Richard Pearce; Cast Lawrence-Hilton Jacobs, Rusty Gray, Ken Arquelio; 80min/HD-CAM/United States Who would have thought that a small high school from Northern California would have a football team that has won over 150 straight games and is ranked #1 in the country year after year? Welcome to De La Salle High, where it’s not about X’s and O’s…it’s about having faith in something larger than yourself. A white man stranded on the side of the road. A black man speeding by in an SUV. An act of kindness with fatal repercussions. Two strangers, harboring dark secrets, learn how much can change in just thirty miles. Humorous, moving and suspenseful, 30 Miles is a road movie full of secrets, betrayal, murder and deception. Director Tim O’Hara goes behind the scenes for a never-before-seen look at a year in the life of the De La Salle football powerhouse and their remarkable Head Coach, Bob Ladouceur, (as well as a glimpse at the unified community which gives its allout support to the team) as they journey, not simply to win another championship or break another national record, but to become a cohesive team bound by love. In the middle of the Nevada desert, Ernie (Rusty Gray), a down-on-his-luck drifter, hitches for a ride. Luck comes by way of Anthony (Lawrence-Hilton Jacobs), a Hollywood agent on his way to Las Vegas for a wedding. The two strangers become friends, and during the long drive, they begin to reveal facts and details from their lives. The more they learn about each other the more one feels there may be something lurking in the other’s past – Ernie and Anthony, pals one moment and deadly enemies the next, soon realize the truth may have as many twists as the desert road. While preconceived notions of high school football are quickly forgotten, we are reminded to question the importance of winning at any cost. However, no matter what view you take on the pressure of high school sports, "1" leaves you with an admiration for the dedication and excellence of those who take pride in the fact that they don’t know what it is like to lose in what seems like much more than a game. Sandy Wolf Preceded by: Persistence; Dir. James J. Cullinane; 10min/35mm/United States – 75-year-old Henry Cook is determined to keep a very important date — come rain or shine. All this wheelchair-bound rebel must do is elude the nursing home’s vigilant warden. MAVERICK COMPETITION The first 24p HD feature to be shot with the P+S Technik Pro-35mm Adapter (thus achieving the depth of field of 35mm film), 30 Miles is the dynamic directorial debut of Ryan Harper, who makes superb use of visual style, unexpected turns and, above all, the performances of incredibly gifted actors, taking the viewer on a ride as lean and unpredictable as the characters. Fernando F. Croce Preceded by: Descent; Dir. Jay Holben; 13min/HD-CAM/United States – A woman witnesses a murder, but her journey has only begun when she takes the elevator down with the murderer. CINEQUEST DXD 30 MILES Your Half Pictures 760 North Cahuenea Blvd Hollywood, CA 90038 United States P: (323) 466-3679 F: (323) 466-3648 [email protected] www.yourhalf.com AGING OUT Public Policy Productions 3 Ludlow Lane PO Box 650 Palisades, NJ 10964 United States P: (845) 398-2119 F: (845) 398-2620 [email protected] THE AGRONOMIST THINKFilm 155 Avenue of the Americas 7th Floor New York, NY 10013 United States P: (646) 293-9400 F: (646) 293-9407 www.thinkfilmcompany.com THE AGRONOMIST AGING OUT 3/6, 7:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 6:45pm (UT-SJSU) 3/12, 2:30pm (C3) 3/9, 7:00pm (C1) 3/11, 9:30pm (C1) Directors Roger Weisberg, Vanessa Roth; Producers Roger Weisberg, Vanessa Roth; Cinematographers Slawomir Grunberg, Sarah Levy, Arthur Yee, Shana Hagan; Editors Sandra Christie, Christopher White; Composer Mark Suozzo; 84min/HD-CAM/United States Director Jonathan Demme; Producers Jonathan Demme, Peter Saraf, Bevin McNamara; Executive Producer Daniel Wolff; Cinematographers Aboudja, Jonathan Demme, Peter Saraf, Bevin McNamara; Editors Lizi Gelber, Bevin McNamara; Composers Wyclef Jean, Jerry "Wonda" Duplessis; 90min/35mm/United States Roger Weisberg and Vanessa Roth’s Aging Out is the emotionally stirring and poignant saga of three teenagers in New York and Los Angeles who, for most of their lives, have been shuffled from one foster care home to another. Now, they find their teen years in foster care coming to an end and are "aging out" of their ability to continue as wards — literally being forced to fend for themselves in a harsh world. Daniella juggles her college career with raising a newborn child as she struggles to avoid the problems that landed her in foster care. David leaves foster care for the streets, goes on a self-destructive drug and crime binge and even faces a time in jail. Risa attends her high school prom and is a star student but faces a daily battle with drug addiction and emotional instability. Despite these struggles, Aging Out refuses to present a bleak account of the dilemma faced by teens evolving into a sometimes unforgiving adulthood. Instead, it is a moving portrait of the resilience each teen develops from years in the system and an affirmation of their dreams of independence and fulfillment. Al Owens "I tried to introduce information. Risky business." — Jean Léopold Dominique Following a brief meeting in Haiti in 1987, director Jonathan Demme (Silence of the Lambs, Something Wild) videotaped conversations with Jean Dominique in exile in New York during the 90s — a man whose passion, style and wit captivated Demme. Although Dominique's education was in agriculture, his life took a radical turn when he became the owner and admired personality of Radio Haiti-Inter, the country's only independently owned station. A dynamic speaker at the front of popular opposition to the oppressive dictatorships that ruled the island, Dominique became a target himself. During one such attack, listeners could hear gunshots being fired upon his station. Eventually, he was forced to take exile in the U.S. Despite the instability of his country and personal position, Dominique maintains an optimism and love of life that is beyond admirable. Charismatic, controversial and courageous, Jean Dominique is The Agronomist. Preceded by: Gowanus, Brooklyn; Dir. Ryan Fleck; 19min/DVCAM/United States – A 12year-old girl, intrigued by her teacher's secret life, is compelled to investigate further. Demme wonderfully captures the essence of the man: slim, intense, eloquent, pipe in hand, a fighter for human rights in Haiti. An intoxicating look at an influential and fascinating individual provides the backbone for a tumultuous 30-year history of Haiti's struggles, and a film that is both troubling and eye-opening. Al Owens MAVERICK COMPETITION SPECIAL PRESENTATION tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 24|CINEQUEST ARAKIMENTARI AUGUST SUN (Ira Madiyama) ARAKIMENTARI oopers Films 52 W 31 St ew York, NY 10001 nited States (917) 339-0904 (917) 339-0905 [email protected] AUGUST SUN sian Film Centre o 118, Dehiwala Road, orelasgamuwa i Lanka 009 477 7318 610 009 412 509 553 [email protected] ww.iramadiyama.com AWFUL NORMAL GG Productions O Box 480181 os Angeles, CA 90048 nited States (310) 418-6716 [email protected] ww.bggproductions.com BEDTIME FAIRY TALES FOR CROCODILES stituto Mexicano de nematografia surgentes Sur 674 2nd Floor el Valle exico City, 03100 exico 52 55 5448 5345 52 55 5448 5380 [email protected] ww.imcine.gob.mx 3/6, 9:45pm (C3) 3/9, 7:15pm (C3) 3/4, 3:00pm (REP) 3/5, 5:00pm (C1) 3/9, 3:00pm (C3) Director Travis Klose; Producer Jason Fried; Executive Producer Regis Trigano; Cinematographer Brian Burgoyne; Editor Masako Tsumura; Composer DJ Krush; 85min/Digital Beta/United States, Japan; English and Japanese with English subtitles "What would happen if I took a photo of everything I ever experienced?" – Nobuyoshi Araki Director Prasanna Vithanage; Producer Soma Edirisinghe; Executive Producer Asanka Edirisinghe; Screenwriter Priyath Liyanage; Cinematographer M.D. Mahindapala; Editor A. Sreekar Prasad; Composer Lakshman Joseph de Saram; Cast Peter D' Almeida, Nimmi Harasgama, Namal Jayasinghe, Mohamed Rahfiulls, Nadi Kammallaweera, A. A. Mansoor; 108min/35mm/Sri Lanka; Sinhala with English subtitles The bound woman in a green kimono with bright red flowers seems almost lifeless, like a plastic doll. But from behind the lens comes the coaxing, praising and even grunting from a jittery impresario with a black, toothbrush-like mustache and shocks of hair that explode from opposite hemispheres of his shiny, otherwise bald head. Then, and only then, does the woman begin to exude a brilliant sensual vitality. Nobuyoshi Araki's work, always focusing on his obsession with the female form, has been both attacked as obscene and hailed as visionary with the same intensity. Following in the steps of Crumb, Arakimentari invites viewers to follow the boisterous, eccentric Araki through the glitz of Tokyo and into his own photography sessions to make up their own minds. Director Travis Klose offers an uninhibited, thought-provoking look at the controversial Japanese photographer and his work. Featuring interviews with singer Björk, photographer Richard Kern and director Takeshi Kitano, among others, Arakimentari is an invigorating look at one man’s career as well as an examination of the complex relationship between the artist and his subject. Don’t miss this hot-button conversation piece. NOTE: Contains images of nudity and strong sexuality. Fernando F. Croce Preceded by: Save Virgil; Dir. Brad Ableson; 14min/35mm/United States – Virgil deals with monkeys, midgets, motorcycles and celebritism on his way to find the girl of his dreams. Life is tough when you’re a cartoon character living in the real world. MAVERICK COMPETITION Sri Lanka, 1996: The cruel conflict between the Tamil insurgents and the government rages on — with cruelty and suffering a daily occurrence for both sides. Director Prasanna Vithanage intertwines three journeys, actual and spiritual, of ordinary people whose lives are profoundly affected by the ongoing struggle of combatants who are unwilling or unable to agree upon a peaceful solution. The beautiful Chamari gains the aid of a reporter who has access to the rebels in order to find her lover, a government pilot who the Tamils have captured. Arfarth, an eleven-year-old Muslim boy, must abandon the dog that befriended him and flee with his family when the Tamils eject all Muslims from their villages and livelihoods. Duminda, a soldier on leave, finds his sister working as a prostitute, and, in his journey home, he must come to terms with what toll the war has exacted on everyone, not just the enemy. Cinematographer M.D. Mahindapala offers stunning photography as each tale is told: from teeming cities to stark desert islands. And while August Sun is the story of struggle, it is also the story of survival, the hope for peace and tolerance and the appreciation of how similar all human beings are in their simple hopes for a good life. Mike Gutman GLOBAL LANDSCAPES PACIFIC BASIN SHOWCASE BEDTIME FAIRY TALES FOR CROCODILES AWFUL NORMAL (Cuentos de Hadas para Dormir Cocodrilos) 3/5, 7:15pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 12:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/12, 5:00pm (MD-SJSU) 3/7, 11:45am (C1) 3/9, 5:00pm (C1) Director Celesta Davis; Producer Tim Skousen; Executive Producer Celesta Davis; Cinematographer Tim Skousen; Editor Tim Skousen; 75min/Beta SP/United States Director Ignacio Ortíz Cruz; Producer Juan Carlos Prieto; Screenwriter Ignacio Ortíz Cruz; Cinematographer Patrick Murguía; Editor Ignacio Ortíz Cruz; Composer Lucía Álvarez; Cast Arturo Ríos, Luisa Huertas, Ana Graham; 100min/35mm/Mexico; Spanish with English subtitles Celesta and Karen Davis grew up in a loving family. They shared many wonderful childhood moments and, at the time, thought it all was normal. But when Karen and Celesta were molested in 1978, little was being done about sexual abuse. Their parents’ lack of action was neither questioned nor challenged, including years of continued social contact with the perpetrator, his wife and their two young children. This made for some not-so-normal memories. Twenty-five years later, feeling unresolved, they begin their quest to find the man who took advantage of their innocence and to ask him something that has haunted them for almost their entire life: "Why?" Director Davis takes one of the most personal journeys to tell her and her family’s remarkable story, exploring the inner depths of a woman’s psyche, which has been harmed, but refuses to be broken. A testament to the fragility and strength of the human spirit, Awful Normal explores the ripple effect of a single action across generations and families and puts these women literally face to face with their demons. Sandy Wolf After winning several awards at international film festivals, director Ignacio Ortíz Cruz’s critically applauded Bedtime Fairy Tales for Crocodiles arrives at Cinequest to wow audiences with its unique vision of life and death in Mexican territory. Upon learning that his father may be dying, Arcangel hurries back to his crumbling childhood home in a remote part of Mexico. Though suffering from insomnia and in danger of losing his family and career, he is determined to see him one last time. What he finds is not just a path to his past, but to the history of his family and country. With a touch of magical realism to rival the work of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the film weaves a mesmerizing web of dreams, fantasies and emotions around one man’s search for the truth behind his family’s past. The results will stay with you long after the picture is over. Fernando F. Croce Preceded by: The Moment; Dir. Yun-ju Chen; 14min/Digital Beta/Taiwan –Wandering the border of dreams and reality, a woman reexamines herself and the relationship with her companion. MAVERICK COMPETITION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: LATINO FILM CELEBRATION CINEQUEST |25 BIG ENOUGH BEING (Istota) BEING Kamera 2000 Al Lotników 1 Warsaw, 02-668 Poland P: 48 22 843 14 01 F: 48 22 654 28 43 [email protected] 3/13, 12:45pm (C3) 3/14, 2:30pm (C1) 3/7, 7:00pm (REP) 3/9, 7:15pm (MD-SJSU) Director Andrzej Czarnecki; Producer Andrzej Jurga; Screenwriters Andrzej Czarnecki, Michal Szelechow; Cinematographers Krzysztof Ptak, Aleksander Antipienko; Editors Krzysztof Janiszewski, Lubow Chwostowa; Composer Wladyslaw Szut; Cast Michail Jefremov, Rim Ajupow, Romualdas Ramanauskas, Irina Kulewskaja, Wiera Iwlewa; 60 min/35mm/Poland; Polish with English subtitles Director/Producer Jan Krawitz; Cinematographers Ferne Pearlstein, Thomas Ott; Editor Jan Krawitz; Composer Kim Falk; 57min/Digital Beta/United States Call them dwarfs, although they prefer "little people" or "people of short stature." But you might as well call them what they are: homeowners, parents, students, friends, lovers, working professionals and contributing members of society. Being, a film of uncompromising attitude and quality, relentlessly grim, insistently artistic, is a true "lost Maverick." Because Being, originally filmed in 1991, in Russia, is inherently and intensely critical of the social conditions in Soviet Russia, the Soviet censors seized it. Being sat shelved in the archives for nearly ten years, until 2000, when the Polish director, Andrzej Czarnecki, personally bought the uncompleted film outright, took it to Poland and completed it. Jan Krawitz’ Big Enough is an intimate and refreshing portrait of what it is like growing up as a Little Person. Reminiscent of Michael Apted’s acclaimed 7-Up series, Big Enough explores what a group of little people achieve and learn during their lives — and the emotional and physical challenges they have faced in an "average-sized" world. Being focuses on alcoholics; beggars; outcasts; society’s shunned dregs, conscripted into forced labor; living under all but inhumane conditions who construct a road that threatens to destroy a church standing in its way. What is it like to date or find a spouse? What about having children — with a 75% chance that their offspring will inherit the dwarf gene? And what does the future hold now that many genetic conditions, including dwarfism, can be diagnosed in utero? Some films create power through content; some, through form. Being does both. It's a tough film — grim, dark, grainy, uncompromising, poetic, indistinct, disturbing, fascinating. Like a hybrid of Sakurov, Gyorgy Feher and others of their ilk, it's a textured meditation on misery. This is a rare opportunity to discover a film of intense and stunning personal vision finally receiving its American premiere. Charlie Cockey Preceded by: Abandoned Eden; Dir. Eno Milkani; 20min/35mm/Albania – In a beautiful coastal village of South Albania, a handful of old people take care of a baby — all of the young people having emigrated. Their happiness won’t last forever; the baby will follow its destiny. SPECIAL PRESENTATION Poignant and brimming with humor, intelligence and humanity, Big Enough provides a unique perspective on a proud and active minority group that most people only know from movie clichés. Meredith Sherter Benston Preceded by: Delivery; Dir. Anna Minkkinen; 27min/Digital Beta/United States – Fate conspires to unite a reclusive video game junkie with her only connection to the real world…her delivery man. MAVERICK COMPETITION THE BOY WHO PLAYS ON THE BUDDHAS OF BAMIYAN 3/5, 9:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/6, 2:30pm (UT-SJSU) Director Phil Grabsky; Producer Amanda Wilkie; Cinematographer Phil Grabsky; Editor Phil Reynolds; Composer Dimitri Tchamouroff; 96min/Digital Beta/United Kingdom; Dari with English subtitles Director Anita McGee; Producers Jennice Ripley, Anita McGee; Screenwriter Sherry White; Cinematographer François Dagenais; Editor Lyly Fortin; Composer Jody Richardson; Cast Sherry White, Jonathan Torrens, Rick Boland; 80min/Digital Beta/Canada Surrounded by hundreds of open caves once used for worship, the ruins are now home to hundreds of refugees from Afghanistan’s 25 years of war. Amongst them shines eight-year-old Mir Hussain, a bright, energetic, smiling jokester of a boy who, alongside his family and friends, attempts to survive in a country turned upside down. Mir is a delightful tour guide through the ancient caves, burnt-out town bazaar and his daily routine of seeking entertainment with his friends. Everyone they meet has a story to tell about life in Afghanistan, including an ex-Taliban recruit who had joined the ranks in order to wear a warmer turban. The Boy who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan perfectly captures the joys and innocence of childhood and the sheer determination it takes to face the brutal conditions of poverty and starvation, political uncertainty and the realities of refugee life in an inhospitable terrain. Meredith Sherter Benston THE BOY WHO PLAYS ON THE BUDDHAS OF BAMIYAN Seventh Art Productions 63 Ship St Brighton, BN1 1AE United Kingdom P: 44 1273 7776 78 F: 44 1273 323 777 [email protected] www.theboywhoplaysonthebuddhasofbamiyan.com THE BREAD MAKER Kickham East Productions 38 Pearson St 127 St. John’s, NL A1A 3R1 Canada P: (709) 738-6474 F: (709) 738-6475 [email protected] www.kickham.com THE BREAD MAKER 3/6, 3:00pm (C3) 3/8, 5:30pm (C3) In March 2001, against international protests and appeals, the ruling Taliban destroyed Afghanistan’s foremost tourist attraction, the 1600-year-old Buddhas of Bamiyan. Carved out of a high stretch of cliff, the statues were considered to be the largest and most remarkable representations of the Buddha anywhere in the world. BIG ENOUGH Stanford University Department of Communication Building 120 Stanford, CA 94305-2050 United States P: (650) 723-0704 F: (650) 725-2472 [email protected] www.stanford.edu/~krawitz Director Anita McGee (Seven Brides for Uncle Sam, Cinequest 1998; Little Dickie, Cinequest 2003) returns with her feature debut, an offbeat, romantic tale about love, passion, fantasy and self-discovery. Honey Reddigan works in quality control at a bread factory — the Sweet Bea Bakery. Sounds sweet, but much to the dismay of Honey, she spends day in and day out watching the bread dough plop into pans. To relieve the monotony, she dreams of love and comes up with plotlines for her real vocation, writing. Honey writes romance novels. And good ones, too, according to her co-workers and biggest fans — the Sweet Bea women. Carmen is Honey’s fictional heroine and her alter ego. In her new adventure, Carmen meets a surly but sexy baker, Antonio, in typical romance novel fashion. Honey’s novel goes terribly wrong, however, when she falls for her real-life love, Edmund Goobie, the local weatherman and star of Weather at Five. But when they buy a bread maker together on impulse, it turns out to be a symbol of their doomed relationship: to her it is an act of commitment; to him it is just an appliance. Can a girl recover from the casual purchase of a major household appliance? And can her novel survive the radical changes Honey is making to it as a result? Al Owens Preceded by: Day Off the Dead; Dir. Lee Lanier; 7min/35mm/United States – The short film that begs the question: “What do the dead do on their day off?” EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS MAVERICK COMPETITION tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 26|CINEQUEST A BUS CAME… BUDDY (Jött Egy Busz…) BUDDY orwegian Film Institute O Box 482 Sentrum slo, N-0105 orway 47 22 47 45 75 47 22 47 45 97 [email protected] ww.nfi.no A BUS CAME… agyar Filmunió árosligeti fasor 38. 068, Budapest ungary 36 1 351 7760 36 1 352 6734 [email protected] ww.filmunio.hu CABALLE BEYOND MUSIC orena Films, S.L. ernando VI, n° 17, 2° Drcha 8004, Madrid pain 34 91 700 2780 34 91 700 2790 [email protected] ww.ibitsproductions.com CALA, MY DOG! elestial Pictures Limited haw Administration Building ot 220, Clear Water Bay Rd owloon ong Kong 852 2927 1166 852 2243 1166 [email protected] ww.celestialpictures.com 3/7, 6:45pm (C3) 3/10, 6:45pm (C1) 3/5, 2:45pm (REP) 3/7, 6:45pm (C1) 3/10, 2:45pm (UT-SJSU) Director Morten Tyldum; Producer Gudny Hummelvoll; Screenwriter Lars Gudmestad; Cinematographer John Andreas Andersen; Editor Eli Nilsen; Composer Lars Lillo-Stenberg; Cast Nikolai Cleve Broch, Aksel Hennie, Anders Baasmo Christiansen, Pia Tjelta, Janne Formoe; 104min/35mm/Norway; Norwegian with English subtitles Directors Árpád Schilling, Ferenc Török, Viktor Bodó, György Pálfi, Kornél Mundruczó; Producers György Budai, Viktor Bodó; Screenwriters Árpád Schilling, Ferenc Török, István Tasnádi, Viktor Bodó, András Vinnai, György Pálfi, Zsófia Ruttkay, Kornél Mundruczó, Viktória Petrányi, Sándor Zsótér; Cinematographers Mátyás Erdély, Dániel Garas, Máté Herbai, Gergely Pohárnok, András Nagy; Editors Zoltán Kovács, Béla Barsi, László Rumbold, Vanda Arányi; Composers Róbert Jobbágy, Péter Kunert, Péter Tóth, Zsófia Tallér; Cast Michelle Wild, Zsolt Anger, Kati Egri, Réka Pelsôczy, György Gazsó, Károly Hajduk, László Gálffi, Péter Haumann, Tamás Kóbor, Géza Gábor; 100min/35mm/Hungary; Hungarian with English subtitles Winner of numerous festival audience awards around the world, Morten Tyldum’s Buddy is a heartwarming debut about friendship, love and fame and reminds us that it is always important to be honest and true to yourself. Twenty-four and carefree, Kristoffer works as a billboard hanger, is madly in love with his girlfriend, Elisabeth, and spends his time making a video diary about the many antics with his friends, Geir and Stig Inge. When Elisabeth gives him her apartment keys, the commitment scares Kristoffer, and he returns them. However, Kristoffer’s life falls apart when Elisabeth dumps him for her boss. While Kristoffer tries to win Elisabeth back, Henriette moves in with the guys, and subtle sparks begin to fly between Kristoffer and her. There is, however, a roadblock in the form of Henriette's boyfriend. Meanwhile, success hits Kristoffer and friends when a television producer comes across his video diaries. Soon, the diaries are a featured segment on a television talk show, bringing minor celebrity status. Revealing your life on national television comes with a price tag, however, and friendships and love are soon tested to their limits. It will cost Kristoffer a great deal to fix things and find out if he has the guts to follow his heart. Made up of five loosely connected sketches tied together by a Budapest bus route, A Bus Came… is the collective work of five directors, ten writers, five cinematographers, four editors, four composers and a multitude of actors. The mini-films, which contrast starkly with one another in regard to atmosphere and style, range from an unusual love story to unlucky shoes; from a crime story to a bloody opera; and even a comic book-like battle between good and evil, directed by György Pálfi (Hukkle, Cinequest 2003), and set against a backdrop of modern Budapest nights to depict Daedalus crying out for vengeance to allay his loss of Icarus, and the ensuing mystical battle when the Sorcerer sets out to thwart him. Visually stunning and delicately balancing drama with absurd humor, A Bus Came… is a treat for audiences and a film that will have audiences talking. Al Owens Al Owens EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: FOCUS ON NORWAY CALA, MY DOG! CABALLÉ BEYOND MUSIC (Kala shi tiao gou) (Caballé Más Alus de la Música) 3/6, 5:00pm (REP) 3/7, 12:00pm (C3) 3/4, 9:30pm (C3) 3/5, 5:00pm (REP) 3/12, 12:15pm (C3) Director Antonio A Farré; Producers Alvaro Longoria, Alberto Sabaté; Cinematographer Xavier Gil; Editor Raúl Román; Composer Carlos Caballé 98min/35mm/Spain; Spanish with English subtitles Director Lu Xuechang; Producer Wang Zhongjun; Screenwriter Lu Xuechang; Cinematographer Zhang Xigui; Editor Kong Jinlei; Composer Xiang Min; Cast Ge You, Xia Yu, Ding Jiali, Li Bin; 100min/35mm/China; Mandarin with English subtitles "I believe that drinking music is the best thing in life. Music is magic and it is a privilege to live with it." – Montserrat Caballé If you love opera, or even have only an interest in music, immerse yourself in this sensational musical highlighting the career of one of the greatest divas of all time, Montserrat Caballé. Featuring renowned performances in the world’s most illustrious opera houses and wonderfully inspired words from peers and the legend herself — who brings her warmth to the screen as our host — director Antonio A Farré’s Caballé Beyond Music is a fascinating journey through the life and career of the woman who is, undoubtedly, a key figure in the music of the second half of the twentieth century. She has one of the most remarkable careers of any soprano in history, and the famous, late Maria Callas had remarked that Montserrat is her only true successor. What makes Caballé all the more dazzling is her work as a tireless promoter of important humanitarian causes, her life as a devoted wife and mother and her dedication to the future of her art as a teacher. It is a film that will enchant and move anyone who sees it. Lu Xuechang’s Cala, My Dog! is a philosophical tale reflecting the extraordinary struggle of an ordinary worker to reclaim his pet, his family...and himself, Internationally acclaimed, award winning actor Ge You (Big Shot's Funeral, Best Actor of the 47th Cannes Film Festival) stars as an ordinary factory employee, Lao Er, who trudges between the family home and the factory floor every day, constantly in search of his dignity and manhood. While his wife, Yu Lan, gradually puts on weight, their 14-year-old son, Liang Liang, like most young teenagers, struggles with his family and adolescence, making everyone's lives difficult. Lao Er's only pleasure in life is his affection for their dog, Cala. One night, the unregistered dog is taken away by the police, and Lao Er is given until 4 p.m. the next day to come up with the 5,000 yen registration fees or lose his friend. Given that the fine is the cost of feeding his family for six months, Lao Er despairs that he may never raise the cash. Lao Er then embarks on a frantic search across the city; talking with strangers, friends and acquaintances — but will Lao Er’s efforts be enough to reunite him with his beloved pooch? Al Owens Mike Gutman GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: LATINO FILM CELEBRATION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: PACIFIC BASIN SHOWCASE CINEQUEST THE CURSE OF BLOODHEAD |27 DELIVERY METHOD THE CURSE OF BLOODHEAD 1680 North Vine Street, Suite 605 Los Angeles, CA 90028 United States P: (323) 469-8500 [email protected] www.bloodhead.com 3/12, 9:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/13, 11:30pm (C3) 3/11, 6:45pm (MD-SJSU) 3/13, 2:45pm (C3) Director Christopher Coppola; Producers Alain Silver, Christopher Coppola; Screenwriter Adrienne Stout-Coppola; Cinematographer Drew Giannetta; Editor Glenn Erickson; Composer Andy Rehfeldt; Cast Andre Ware, Steven “Chickenbone” Hedden, Frank Gorshin, Andre Marcus, Bernie Kopell, Lynda Carter, Shirley Jones; 87min/35mm/United States Director Josh Apter; Producers Josh Apter, Peter Olsen; Screenwriters Josh Apter, Rich Egan; Cinematographer Peter Olsen; Editors Josh Apter, Sarah Christman; Composer Chris Ryan; Cast Richard Egan, Tanya Clarke, Sully Boyar; 100 min/DVCPro/United States Two brothers born from the same parents. Oddly, Doug is white and Donnie, black. Yet, it is more than just the color of their skin that makes the two men drastically different. They do share one thing, however — a common goal: money! So, when their mother, whom they have never met, dies, and they are brought together to claim the trailer park she left her two sons, they find themselves challenged to their limits emotionally and physically. Together, they must find a way to put aside their mistrust and prejudices to unite in order to fight the evil cult that wants them for the ultimate sacrifice. Their new common goal: survival! Christopher Coppola combines comedy and camp in a gripping horror adventure, while masterfully capturing the intense conflict between his characters and their struggles with money, prejudice and youth. The latest in his series of “digi-flicks,” The Curse of Bloodhead is an intense joyride and an amalgamation of mysterious atmosphere, excellent cinematography and compelling dialogue. It is, without a doubt, a film that will keep audiences mesmerized until the last second. And stick around after the film for a hilarious presentation entitled The Unknown Coppola. Sam Guzman Director Josh Apter (Kaaterskill Falls, Cinequest 2002) tells an unlikely love story of two people trying to find themselves, first as friends, then partners and finally lovers. Gus enjoys his carefree life, bicycling around Manhattan delivering special packages to a steady group of regulars. But after a cataclysmic occurrence, Gus realizes that it’s time to go straight. Jessie, a massage therapist with very few clients, is desperately trying to recover from the death of her boyfriend. Her professional and personal lives both seem poised for a change. Jessie and Gus had met prior to his reincarnation; he was madly attracted to her, while she thought him a fool. Fate reunites them, and the new Gus is one Jessie actually likes. While both struggle to fix the broken parts of their lives, Gus has a brainstorm that will allow them to embark on a joint venture to do what they do best — but is either truly prepared for the consequences? DELIVERY METHOD Lo-Fi Pictures 80 5th Ave, Ste 908 New York, NY 10011 United States P: (212) 414-9570 F: (212) 478-3121 [email protected] www.lofipictures.com DESTINATION MOSCOW Nowegian Film Institute PO Box 482 Sentrum Oslo, N-0105 Norway P: 47 22 47 45 75 F: 47 22 47 45 97 [email protected] www.nfi.no DORIAN BLUES Two fractured lives are changed as Gus and Jessie ride their roller coaster of a relationship, while taking risks that can be quite dangerous to them. Richard Egan and Tanya Clarke bring a dynamic presence to their roles as two tremendously appealing down-and-out souls who are determined to find redemption no matter what the cost. Sandy Wolf Day Dreamer Films 18 Maple Ave Ballston Spa, NY 12020 United States P: (518) 884-0390 F: (775) 361-1576 [email protected] MAVERICK COMPETITION SPECIAL PRESENTATIONS DESTINATION MOSCOW DORIAN BLUES (Mot Moskva) 3/6, 12:15pm (C1) 3/7, 9:00pm (C1) 3/12, 7:00pm (C3) 3/13, 9:15pm (UT-SJSU) Directors Jo Strømgren, Runar Hodne; Producer Rune H. Trondsen; Screenwriters Jo Strømgren, Runar Hodne; Cinematographer Patrik Säfström; Editor Pål Gengenbach; Composer Kari Nytrø, Lars Årdel; Cast Thorbjørn Harr, Espen R. Bjerke, Kyrre Texnæs, John Brungot, Anna Dworak; 80min/35mm/Norway; Norwegian with English subtitles Director Tennyson Bardwell; Producers Tennyson Bardwell, Mary-Beth Taylor Bardwell, Frank D’Andrea, Portia Kamons, Ann Marie Lizzi; Screenwriter Tennyson Bardwell; Cinematographer Taylor Morrison; Editor Ann Marie Lizzie; Composer Will Severin; Cast Michael McMillian, Lea Coco, Steven Charles Fletcher, Maureen Quigley; 88 min/Digital Beta/United States "My name is Vassi. I am an actor. And an idealist." Anxiety is the main course for young Dorian Lagatos, but these are not your average adolescent blues Not only is he going through high school purgatory, but also he is struggling to move out of the shadow of his football-jock brother, Nicky, while dealing with his domineering and very homophobic father. Jo Strømgren and Runar Hodne’s Destination Moscow is a lopsided view of the last decade of the Soviet Union, as seen through the eyes of an incorrigible idealist from the provinces. It is a road movie in tribute of the deeds of fumbling heroes and the charm of believing in the impossible. Life is not smooth sailing for Vassi. Between performing plays to meager audiences and helping his shady brother smuggle goods, his dreams of conquering the legendary theatres of Moscow seem farther than ever. Without ever giving up, however, he and his ragtag troupe of actors lumber from gig to gig, dealing with everything from mute performers to rabid immigrant officers. Tired of waiting for their big break, they decide to risk everything for one shot at stardom. But will their journey lead to the famous Pushkin Moscow Theatre or back to the muddy provinces? Dorian is a self-described "stereotypical gay." Horrified at his conservative father’s reaction, he, at first, gets his brother to help him "think straight." Acceptance, however, may lie only at the end of his journey of self-discovery, boozy counselors, swing-dancing strippers and sudden emotional discoveries. No one said it was easy coming out of the closet. With an appealing cast and warm, unpredictable charm, Dorian Blues deliciously portrays the pangs and triumphs of staying true to one’s self. Writer-director Tennyson Bardwell has created a funny, moving coming-of-age tale about the search for personal happiness, with wit and wisdom to spare. His directorial debut is a delightful comedy for anyone who’s ever come apart while "coming of age." Reminiscent of the deadpan comedies of Aki Kaurismaki (The Man Without a Past), Destination Moscow is a sharp, bittersweet look at talented dreamers and their elusive destinies. Without sacrificing a knack for human comedy, it takes a loving look at just how far artists will go for their art. Fernando F. Croce Fernando F. Croce EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISONS GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: FOCUS ON NORWAY www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST 28|CINEQUEST DOWN BY LOVE DOUBLE DARE ¨ Sújtva) (Szerelemtol DOUBLE DARE unaway Films 330 Rhode Island St an Francisco, CA 94107 nited States : (415) 821-2448 : (415) 293-0806 [email protected] www.runawayfilms.com DOWN BY LOVE Magyar Filmunió árosligeti fasor 38. 068, Budapest ungary : 36 1 351 7760 : 36 1 352 6734 [email protected] www.filmunio.hu EILA innish Film Foundation anavakatu 12 elsinki, 00160 inland : 358 9 6220300 : 358 9 62203050 [email protected] www.ses.fi FADO BLUES ado Filmes ua Goncalves Zarco Nº 18-5º Dto isboa, 1400-191 ortugal : 351 21 302 10 32 : 351 21 302 10 42 [email protected] 3/5, 7:00pm (C3) 3/6, 5:30pm (C3) 3/4, 7:00pm (C1) 3/6, 7:00pm (C1) Director Amanda Micheli; Producers Karen Johnson, Danielle Renfrew; Cinematographer Amanda Micheli; Editor Purcell Carson; Composer Marco D’Ambrosio; 81min/Digital Beta/United States Their jobs entail being set on fire, thrown off buildings, dragged by wild horses and hit by cars. They are stuntwomen. Jeannie Epper, who was Linda Carter’s double on the Wonder Woman television series, has appeared in scores of Hollywood films and is the female member of a long-standing and prominent family of stuntpeople. But she is now a grandmother, fighting the lack of roles for women her age and her own physical limitations. Zoe Bell, who was the stunt double for Xena: Warrior Princess, realizes that if she is ever going to succeed in her chosen career, she must move from her native New Zealand to Los Angeles. Both Jeannie and Zoe face the challenges of pursuing a line of work in a field dominated by macho men. When Jeannie meets Zoe, she takes her under her wing, as they both struggle to survive at the opposite end of the spectrum — Jeannie fighting to hold on and Zoe just begging for the chance to show her stuff. Going behind the scenes of film sets and auditions, director Amanda Micheli deftly reveals the daily trials and tribulations of these remarkable "action heroes." And as we become emotionally involved with these incredible women, we find out if the payoff for all the physical and mental woes they endure makes it all worthwhile. Sandy Wolf Preceded by: Walkentalk; Dir. Tim Merrill; 10min/35mm/United States – Lesson #1: If your brother talks like Christopher Walken, get him some help. Lesson #2: Never invite him to meet your new girlfriend. MAVERICK COMPETITION Director Tamas Sas; Producer Denes Szekeres; Screenwriter Can Togay, Tamas Sas; Cinematographer Elemér Ragályi; Editor Karoly Ari; Composer David Yengibarjan; Cast Patricia Kovacs, Gabor Mate, Jozsa Hacser, Rita Tallos, Imre Csuja, Zsuzsa Jaro, Janos Szilagyi, Lili Erdos; 90 min/35mm/Hungary; Hungarian with English subtitles Eva has just returned from a glorious few days at the beach with her lover. Upbeat and radiantly in love, she says a few words to her neighbor before stepping inside her nondescript flat. And it is there, inside her apartment, we witness both the unraveling of a love affair and the emotional state of a yearning woman, who just might be on the verge of a nervous breakdown. Displaying an intense virtuosity, Patricia Kovacs is mesmerizing in a role that has her dominating the screen, primarily with the use of internal dialogue and phone conversations with her unseen lover. Director Tamas Sas takes what is essentially a one set location and makes it feel open and isolated, all reflective of Eva’s particular mood at the time. Wavering between self-deceived euphoria and despondency, Eva’s fragile emotions mirror the complexities of her involvement in a love triangle. Tough and resilient, Eva stubbornly refuses to deny herself hope of true happiness, despite the growing evidence to everyone but herself that she is in fact the third wheel. But when that realization finally comes to her, she embarks upon a shocking plot for revenge that reveals a passionate and strangely determined woman. Sandy Wolf MAVERICK COMPETITION FADO BLUES EILA 3/4, 5:00pm (C1) 3/8, 9:00pm (C1) 3/13, 6:30pm (C1) 3/14, 12:00pm (C1) Director Jarmo Lampela; Producers Petri Jokiranta, Tero Kaukomaa; Screenwriter Tove Idström; Cinematographer Harri Räty; Editor Joona Louhivuori; Composer Liisa Akimof, Petri Nieminen; Cast Sari Mällinen, Ilkka Koivula, Hannes Suominen, Kristiina Halkola, Johanna Kerttula, Kari Hietalahti; 94min/35mm/Finland; Finnish with English subtitles Director Luis Galvão Teles; Producers Goncalo Galvão Teles, Luis Galvão Teles; Screenwriter Suzanne Nagle; Cinematographer Jacques Raybaut; Composer Nuno Maló; Cast Cristini Olivera, Ângelo Torres, Danton Mello, Carlos Santos, João Lagarto, Marcantonio Del Carlo; 111min/35mm/Portugal Portugese; with English subtitles. As gritty and uncondescending as the movies of Ken Loach (My Name Is Joe, Sweet Sixteen), Eila displays enormous power in a woman’s battle for justice and dignity. Based on true events, it is a bracing tribute to the strength of humanity in even the bleakest of situations. "Crime is an equal opportunity profession — anyone can do it." For Eila, life boils down to cleaning the floors of a government building and making sure her delinquent son keeps out of trouble. Things change when, unjustly laid off from her job, she finds the strength to join her colleagues in striking for better working conditions and bringing action against the State. Eila’s journey, however, has just begun. Eila is the story of the strength and courage of a woman who ventures to take a risk, as an employee, as a loving woman and as a mother. Showcasing a harsh yet humanistic type of realism, director Jarmo Lampela’s Elia is a superb example of the current wave of social consciousness in Finnish cinema. In its title character, the film flies a flag for human dignity and finds an inspiring protagonist with enough backbone to put Erin Brockovich to shame. Amadeu and Leonardo are friends scraping to make a living in Rio. Dreams drive their lives. For the irascible and down-to-earth Amadeu, always trying to make a buck from tourists, his dream is to make his life worthwhile; for naïve dreamer Leonardo, yearning for the excitement of crime novels, it is to become a famous writer. Their plans lead nowhere until Lia, a gun-toting femme fatale, right out of one of Leonardo’s beloved pulp novels, crosses their path. Thrust into the underworld of Lisbon, the two friends get more than they bargained for when they join a gang specializing in art theft. The latest offering from veteran Portuguese director Luis Galvão Teles (Elles, Cinequest Audience Choice 1999), Fado Blues modulates from the lilting rhythm of light comedy to the suspense of film noir. Both a witty parody of crime dramas and an exciting heist thriller, it is an intriguing look at how "crime is the only democratic profession." Fernando F. Croce Fernando F. Croce MAVERICK COMPETITION MAVERICK COMPETITION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST FINE DEAD GIRLS FOOLS (Fine Mrtve Djevojke) (Narren) |29 FINE DEAD GIRLS Alka Film Dedici 21 Zagreb, 10000 Croatia P: 38 51 30 10 601 F: 38 51 30 10 601 [email protected] 3/4, 3:00pm (C3) 3/10, 1:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/12, 12:45pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 2:00pm (C1) 3/13, 5:00pm (C3) 3/14, 2:15pm (C3) Director Dalibor Matanic; Producer Jozo Patljak; Screenwriters Mate Matisic, Dalibor Matanic; Cinematographer Branko Linta; Editor Tomislav Pavlic; Componers Jura Ferina, Pavle Miholjevic; Cast Olga Pakalovic, Nina Violic, Inge Appelt, Kresimir Mikic, Ivica Vidovic, Jadranka Dokic, Milan Strljic; 77min/35mm/Croatia; Serbo-Croatian with English subtitles Director Tom Schreiber; Producers Ute Schneider, Wim Wenders; Screenwriter Ingo Haeb; Cinematographers Olaf Hirschberg, Hajo Schomerus; Editors Andreas Radtke, Miriam Strugalla; Composer Jakob Ilja; Cast Christoph Bach, Victoria Deutschmann, Hannelore Lübeck, Markus John; 90min/35mm/Germany; German with English subtitles Iva and Maria, a young lesbian couple in Croatia’s capital city, Zagreb, just want to find a quiet place to live together and be left alone. Unfortunately, the apartment building they choose, a half hidden place down by the train tracks, couldn’t have been a worse choice. The place is like something from a Balkan David Lynch universe; the tenants — who at first glance seem nice and normal enough — are a crazy-quilt of eccentrics who cover just about every extreme of society’s spectrum, and the landlady might have stepped from an Abel Ferrara fever dream. Everybody is seething about something on some level, and when the landlady’s son inevitably falls for Iva, things really start to get out of hand. Roman has a passionless life. A good son, whose best friend is his elderly mother, Roman is always left out of the camaraderie with his boisterous colleagues at work. But when he is invited to attend the "women’s carnival" masquerade party, his life changes forever. Filmed with a wonderfully sure hand and dark imagery, Fine Dead Girls swept the awards at Croatia’s national film festival in Pula, winning awards for best film, director, producer, supporting actor and actress, as well as walking away with both the Critic’s Prize and the Audience Award. It’s a wonderful, dark thriller with a strong social conscience that embodies an appeal for understanding and tolerance. It’s smoldering, brooding proof positive that film noir is alive and well in the Balkans. Charlie Cockey Christoph Bach (who bears a remarkable resemblance to a young Robert DeNiro) gives the striking performance of an inhibited man dealing with his feelings on previously unknown issues of passion, guilt, faith and death. With touches of humor, and full of surprises, Fools takes us through the colorful and hectic throngs of the carnival to discover with Roman what it feels like to be truly alive. HAM & CHEESE 3/12, 7:00pm (MD-SJSU) 3/13, 7:00pm (MD-SJSU) Director Elza Kephart; Producers Elza Kephart, Charles Jodoin-Keaton; Screenwriter Elza Kephart; Cinematographer John Ashmore; Editor Stephane Olivier; Composer Martin Pelland; Cast Anne Day-Jones, Karl Gerhardt, Samantha Slan, Monik Vincent, Roland Laroche, Erik Kendrick; 81 min/Digital Beta/Canada Director Warren P. Sonoda; Producers Mike Beaver, Jason Jones; Executive Producer; Mihkel Harilaid; Screenwriters Mike Beaver, Jason Jones; Cinematographer Brendan Steacy; Cast Jason Jones, Mike Beaver, Jennifer Baxter, Samantha Bee, Dave Foley, Scott Thompson, Polly Shannon; 88min/Digital Beta/Canada Patsy, an introverted nurse, reads romance novels and watches soaps. When a decaying lumberjack manages to bite our wallflower heroine, she morphs into a flesh eating sex-kitten intent on winning back her old sweetheart, the conceited and clueless Dr. Dox. However, Patsy’s lame flame is already engaged to Goodie, a bitchy prude who, despite appearances (long legs and short dresses), refuses to give doc what he wants — "Not until we’re married." And once Patsy learns to deal with her new affliction, mastering the art of procuring corpses to gnaw on, while effectively and erotically reeling in the randy Dox, Goodie had better watch out. Ripe with allusions to classic horror films, director Elza Kephart’s Graveyard Alive brilliantly evokes German Expressionist horror movies with glorious black and white cinematography and a sparse but compelling soundtrack. It’s an exceptional addition to the zombie tradition that’s unique and fun. Ask any director, and he/she will tell you of at least one actor he/she would like to kill — usually by the slowest and most painful way possible. Thespians are an interesting breed, to say the least. Warren Sonoda’s Ham & Cheese enters the world of unknown actors looking to make it big, following the ups, downs and real, real lows of two struggling actors, Richard and Barry, as they try to make it in the cruel world of showbiz. Without an ounce of talent between the two of them and their only strength being persistence, they’ll do almost anything to attain their dream, except let it go. Join Kids in the Hall alumni Dave Foley and Scott Thompson, along with a superb cast who keep the fun flowing in this laugh-out-loud look at the screwed-up dreams of some of the worst actors in the world. You’ll grimace along with the casting directors at horrible line readings. You’ll cry with the loved ones who put up with these boobs. You’ll raise your fist in anger at the injustice of ending up on the cutting room floor. But most of all you’ll laugh and laugh at director Sonoda’s homage to pesky thesps. Jens Hussey Robert Mello EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS Blackwalk Productions 99 Sudbury St #101 Toranto, Ontario M6J 3S7 Canada P: (416) 533-5864 F: (416) 533-2016 [email protected] www.decadedistribution.ca HAM & CHEESE 3/8, 9:45pm (MD-SJSU) 3/12, 11:30pm (C3) A stylish zombie love story with a dry sense of humor, Graveyard Alive — A Zombie Nurse in Love assumes the eerie setting of a hospital, a veritable restaurant for ravished ghouls. GRAVEYARD ALIVE A ZOMBIE NURSE IN LOVE Bastard Amber Productions 1055 Bernard St W #6 Montreal, Quebec H2V 1V1 Canada P: (514) 495-9023 F: (514) 495-1883 [email protected] www.bastardamber.com MAVERICK COMPETITION GRAVEYARD ALIVEA Zombie Nurse in Love Reverse Angle Factory GmbH Hildeboldplatz 15-17 D-50672, Köln Germany P: 49 (0) 221 12 600 96 F: 49 (0) 221 12 600 97 [email protected] www.reverse-angle-factory.de After meeting the mysterious Stella and discovering love for the first time, Roman witnesses the beating of a young man in a Zorro costume. When his offer to help is turned down, he returns to Stella, only to find that she has disappeared. Plagued by nightmares and plunging into a lunatic’s psychosis, Roman sets out on a surrealistic journey, wandering the Mardi Gras-like circus streets, determined to unravel the complexities surrounding Stella, the events he’s observed and his own personal struggle to find himself. Sandy Wolf EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS FOOLS EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 30|CINEQUEST We support the arts with more than just applause. The arts enrich our lives in ways that go beyond the spoken word or musical note. They make us laugh. They make us cry. They lift our spirits and bring enjoyment to our lives. The arts and cultural opportunities so vital to this community are also important to us. That’s why Comerica supports the arts. And we applaud those who join us in making investments that enrich peoples lives. Success – for an individual, a company, or a community – means little if it’s not shared with others. Comerica is proud to support the success of the communities we serve. Comerica Bank. Member FDIC. Equal Opportunity Lender. www.comerica.com www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST |31 IPO IMELDA IMELDA Cinediaz 1904 Greenberry Rd Baltimore, MD 21209 United States P: (410) 491-6189 F: (410) 510-1033 [email protected] www.cinediaz.com 3/13, 12:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/14, 11:45am (C3) 3/5, 9:30pm (REP) 3/8, 9:30pm (UT-SJSU) Director Ramona S. Diaz; Producer Ramona S. Diaz; Cinematographer Ferne Pearlstein; Editor Leah Marino; Composers Grace Nono, Bob Aves; 103min/HDCAM/United States; English and Tagalog with English subtitles Director Daniel Gamburg; Producer Michael Gamburg; Screenwriter Daniel Gamburg; Cinematographers Daniel Gamburg, Robin McLeod; Editor Daniel Gamburg; Cast David Babich, Marie Buquet, Kerry Gudjohnsen, Matthew Gardner, Mark Rachel, Frank Torranno, Caridad Frutos, Lee Tsoflias, Radha Lorca, Dawn Walters, Mara Katz, Michael Wohl, Glenda Solis; 100min/Digital Beta/United States She could change her shoes every day for eight years and still not wear the same pair twice. Her beauty and charm won over the likes of Colonel Khadafi, General MacArthur and Irving Berlin. She survived an assassination attempt, exile and over 150 charges of corruption and human rights abuse and is still convinced that she is the beloved symbol of her people and country. Widow of the late Ferdinand Marcos, exiled president of the Philippines, Imelda Marcos rose to power as a diplomat and Governor of Manila during the twenty-year reign of her husband. During the Cold War because of the strategic military location of the country, the Marcoses garnered profit from close ties with the United States, maintained a stranglehold on the government, and thrust the Philippines into the world’s spotlight. By the time of their forced exile in 1986, her beauty, cosmopolitan bearing and ruthlessness, arguably, had transformed Imelda into the richest and most powerful woman in the world. Director Ramona S. Diaz captures Imelda’s unique character through home movies, archival footage and rare candid interviews. Whether expounding idiosyncratic cosmology, complaining that her would-be assassin chose too ugly a weapon or passing out autographed pictures to the poor, Imelda remains a stellar beauty with a talent for self-delusion. Imelda is a provocative and savagely entertaining film about power, egotism and deception. San Francisco dotcommers hatch a plan to cash in on their company and their employees lives in this evocative tragicomedy about life at a startup during the technology industry’s boom and bust. With the diligent Susan in charge and Kip and Jeff as backers, Hot Tot flourishes as a company and entices employees by offering them an opportunity to become San Francisco’s next wave of high-tech millionaires. Maria hops on board with hopes of starting a family and helping her husband quit his high-risk job. Charlene relies on the job’s long hours to balance out her loneliness as a single woman. Hot Tot offers Kachina much-needed direction and a way out of her destructive relationship with Joe, who lies his way into getting a job at Hot Tot. But the future looks uncertain for Hot Tot, and management faces major decisions that will determine the livelihoods of the employees. The San Francisco ensemble cast offers magnificent improvisation as director Daniel Gamburg creates a true-to-life environment that cleverly mixes the ups and downs with a unique humor that betrays the suspicion and resentment which are revealed when the bubble bursts and dreams become reality. Sandy Wolf Meredith Sherter Benston CINEQUEST DXD EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS JAGODA IN THE SUPERMARKET IPO Enlightened Pictures 750 17th Ave San Francisco, CA 94121 United States P: (415) 668-1091 F: (415) 221-6178 [email protected] www.enlightenedpictures.com JAGODA IN THE SUPERMARKET Media Luna Entertainment Hochstadensrasse 1-3 Cologne, D-50674 Germany P: 49 221 139 2222 F: 49 221 139 2224 [email protected] www.medialuna-entertainment.com JONNY VANG Norwegian Film Institute PO Box 482 Stentrum Oslo, N-0105 Norway P: 47 22 47 45 75 F: 47 22 47 45 97 [email protected] www.nfi.no JONNY VANG (Jagoda u Supermarketu) 3/5, 7:15pm (C1) 3/10, 9:00pm (C1) 3/7, 4:45pm (C3) 3/9, 5:15pm (C3) Director Dusan Milic; Producer Emir Kusturica; Screenwriter Dusan Milic; Cinematographer Petar Popovic; Editor Svetolik Mica Zajc; Composers Dr. Nelle Karajlic, Dejan Sparavalo; Cast Branka Katic, Srdjan Todorovic, Dubravka Mijatovic; 92min/35mm/Serbia, Germany, Italy; Serbo-Croatian with English subtitles Director Jens Lien; Producer Dag Alveberg; Screenwriter Ståle Stein Berg; Cinematographers Philip Øgaard, Erling Thurmann-Andersen; Editor Pål Gengenbach; Cast Aksel Hennie, Laila Goody, Fridtjov Såheim, Marit Adeleide Andreassen, Bjørn Sundquist, Nils Vogt; 85min/35mm/Norway; Norwegian with English subtitles Jagoda, desperately looking for Mr. Right, is a cashier at the sparkling new "American-style" supermarket. When her more aggressive co-worker steals a potential date, Jagoda refuses to sell a kind old lady strawberries for her grandson’s birthday. However, when the grandson finds out about the insult perpetrated on dear granny, he has no choice but to seek vengeance. So, he enters the supermarket heavily armed and holds everyone hostage — even though he really doesn’t like strawberries. Needless to say, plans go awry, and as the SWAT team gets ready, crowds gather outside the supermarket in support of the gunman. Creating a kind of absurdist Dog Day Afternooon, Dusan Milic directs a darkly romantic farce about love, hostages and politics in which a spunky checkout girl bonds with a bumbling war vet, despite the fact that he is holding her and the other hostages at gunpoint. Jagoda in the Supermarket is a refreshing look at people recently freed from a police state trying to come to grips with all the fruits of a free society, as well as the impersonality of modern institutions full of goodies which they could only dream about not too long ago. Sandy Wolf MAVERICK COMPETITION Jonny, Tuva and Magnus have known each other since they were kids. Now in their thirties, much has changed in their relationship, or, as Jonny puts it, "Many people believe that life in small towns is less complicated than in the big city. But it's not true. Life isn't complicated — it's complex." Truer words could not be spoken about this particular trio. Jonny is still Magnus’ best friend, but Magnus is now married to Tuva, with whom he has a child. At the same time, Tuva is Jonny's mistress. Jonny isn't at all happy with the arrangement, and he would very much like to change things. He tells Tuva that he'd like to get serious. Shortly afterwards, Jonny is assaulted by an unknown attacker with a shovel. The mysterious attack is, however, just the beginning of a series of accidents and catastrophes of which Jonny is the victim. He is shot, his car smashed, his business sabotaged and, to add insult to injury, the bank refuses him a loan. But Jonny Vang is not one to give up without a fight... Director Jens Lien deftly crafts a playful and hilarious comedy, full of music and personality. It is a tale about how nothing is as it seems — where there are always choices with limited options. Just like life. Al Owens GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: FOCUS ON NORWAY tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 32|CINEQUEST Fry's Electronics is a proud sponsor of the Cinequest San Jose Film Festival 14 San Jose 550 E. Brokaw Rd. 408.487.1000 www.cinequest.org Campbell 600 E. Hamilton Ave. 408.364.3700 tix 408.295.FEST Palo Alto 340 Portage Ave. 650.496.6000 Fremont 43800 Osgood Rd. 510.252.5300 Sunnyvale 1077 Arques Ave. 408.617.1300 CINEQUEST |33 true color captured like never before. Panasonic introduces the world’s only Ultra-Compact™ digital camcorder complete with 3CCD technology and Leica Dicomar lens. So you can capture all of life’s color at any time, just about anywhere. picture simulated Add more color to your life at panasonic.com/3ccd tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 34|CINEQUEST THE LAST HORROR MOVIE KILL ME TENDER (Haz Conmigo lo que Quieras) KILL ME TENDER edia Luna Entertainment ochstadenstrasse 1-3 ologne, D-50674 ermany 49-221-139-2222 49-221-139-2224 [email protected] ww.media-entertainment.com THE LAST HORROR MOVIE avin Films 5/66 Dean St. ondon, W1D 4PL nited Kingdom 44 20 84 32 23 27 44 20 74 37 39 03 THE LAST ZAPATISTAS anuel Penafiel/Francesco Taboada roducciones 16 E. 92nd St os Angeles, CA 90003 nited States (323) 547 - 3748 [email protected] ww.lastzapatistas.com LIBERTY: 3 STORIES ABOUT LIFE & DEATH am Walton Productions ox 391025 ountain View, CA 94039 nited States (650) 960-3414 (650) 962-8539 [email protected] 3/6, Midnight (C3) 3/10, 9:30pm (C3) 3/11, 5:00pm (C3) 3/12, 4:45pm (C3) Director Ramón de España; Producer Juan Alexander; Executive Producer José Luis G. Arrojo; Screenwriter Ramón de España; Cinematographer David Omedes; Editor José Salcedo; Composer Alfonso de Vilallonga; Cast Ingrid Rubio, Alberto San Juan, Emilio Gutiérrez Caba, Manuel Manquiña; 98min/35mm/Spain; Spanish with English subtitles Maribel is bored with her dull life. She is also repulsed by her mother’s employer, a recent widower with a small fortune (and a bad heart), who is obsessed with Maribel’s beauty and offers her a life of luxury for her hand in marriage. Desperate to get away, Maribel travels to Barcelona to visit her sister. There she meets Manolo, an excitable hunk, who has bigger plans than dressing up in a bunny suit for his job as a debt collector. Together the new lovers hatch a complicated plan that will allow them to be together in a style they may not be accustomed to, but to which they certainly feel entitled. The plot soon thickens as each blunders toward an unexpected denouement. Ingrid Rubio is enchanting as the restless Maribel, struggling to find herself in a world that doesn’t seem to have a place for someone with her vitality. Director Ramón de España deftly mixes comedy and drama in a meditation on love, desire, ambition and contentment, all the while focusing on the fragility of relationships in a striking cinematic style. It is a tale about the quiet desperation of those who never seem to be satisfied, even when happiness is staring them right in the face. Sandy Wolf Director Julian Richards; Producer Zorana Piggott; Screenwriter James Handel; Cinematographer Chris StJohn-Smith; Editor Claus Wehlisch; Composer Simon Lambros; Cast Kevin Howarth, Mark Stevenson, Antonia Beamish; 80min/35mm/United Kingdom Max Parry is a mild-mannered wedding photographer who leads a fairly dull life with one minor exception — he is a serial killer. By luring his innocent subjects home with the enticement of bad-teen slasher movie, Max, with the help of his nerdy and inept assistant, is able to satisfy his appetite, both literally and figuratively, as he brings delicious cuts of meat home to his parents. Max narrates in murderously humorous fashion, caustically advising us of the meaninglessness of the lives of his victims, as he shares with us his psycho-killer mentality and his technique for each brutal murder. But nothing prepares us for what lies ahead. It’s rare to find a truly memorable shocker movie anymore, but Julian Richards’ The Last Horror Movie keeps us spellbound in horror, while making us feel appalled at our own laughter. Reminiscent of Henry: Portrait of a Serial Killer, but with the more comedic underpinnings of American Psycho, it takes us on a journey through the mind of a sick, but slick, individual dying to show us the mayhem and murder he commits with such pride. While it may be disturbing to watch this film, what is more frightening is the vulnerability we feel when faced with the thought that people like Max may be out there, just waiting for the right time to take us home for dinner. Note: Contains graphic violence. MAVERICK COMPETITION Sandy Wolf EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS LIBERTY: 3 STORIES ABOUT LIFE & DEATH THE LAST ZAPATISTAS, FORGOTTEN HEROES (Los Ultimos Zapatistas, Heroes Olvidados) 3/9, 5:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/11, 3:30pm (C3) 3/6, 9:15pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 2:30pm (REP) 3/8, 1:00pm (UT-SJSU) Director Francesco Taboada Tabone; Producer Manuel Peñafiel; Cinema-tographer Manuel Peñafiel; Editor Sarah Perrig; Composers Angel Mosqueda, Jesus Baez; 70 min/35mm/Mexico; Spanish with English subtitles Director Pam Walton; Producer Pam Walton; Cinematographer Pam Walton; Editor Pam Walton; Composer Neil Panton; 70min/Digital Beta/USA Magnificently capturing the past fire within the fragile and weak, 90-somethingyear-old men as they recall the blasts of guns and the ferociousness of battles during the 1910 Mexican Revolution, Francesco Taboada Tabone’s The Last Zapatistas is a chilling testimony of the last twelve survivors of the legendary Liberation Army of the South — patriots who fought beside General Emiliano Zapata. They are living history at its best as they recall the events as they actually happened. Some were left with no other choice, some were tricked into it and others supported Zapata as if he were God. Reigning government ideals were forced upon them as they pushed to advance, leaving the peasants and lower classmen begging, barely surviving. “Birds live off the sky, fish live off the sea, man lives off the land,” and they weren’t even allowed that. Humbly displaying a belief that their lives would be better under Zapata’s rule, supporters and family members still actively battle for justice and equality. Today young students have become political activists supporting his values and goals. One of the last surviving soldiers symbolically gives over his fight to a younger generation. Awarded Best Documentary at the Los Angeles Chicano Film Festival, The Last Zapatistas is a captivating illustration of a world where courage reigned. Stacy Quan GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: LATINO FILM CELEBRATION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST It has been said that where there is love there is life. Liberty: 3 Stories About Life & Death provides both with a heartfelt exploration of a lesbian family of friends and lovers coping with the death of two members. Told in three parts, the film by Pam Walton demonstrates the power of film to bring back the deceased and the pain, joy and determination of living and dying. A tremendous sense of humor and fun binds this community together. Every occasion is cause for a celebration of life and love. A retirement party is not complete without songs and an 8-foot replica of the Statue of Liberty. Cake, Judy Garland and kisses cap off the ultimate bon voyage party. Even when one of these close friends begins chemotherapy, the ladies make an event full of laughter and music out of shaving her head. Social conservatives may attempt to portray the gay community as outside of the rights and joys of the "traditional" family but in the end, Liberty proves that everyone should be so lucky to have such love, support and sense of community as these women. Where there is love, there is life and where there are both, there is liberty. Meredith Sherter Benston Preceded by: Stolen Poem; Dir. Austin Grady; 10min/HD-CAM/United States – Two women looking for something steal every piece of mail and FedEx packages they can find. Soon, they find something much more valuable than what they were looking for. MAVERICK COMPETITION CINEQUEST |35 OVER A DECADE OF CINEQUEST MAVE®ICK SPIRIT AWARD WINNERS Carl Franklin Russ Meyer Werner Herzog Cinequest 4 Cinequest 5 Cinequest 5 Luis Valdez Robert Wise Cinequest 6 Cinequest 6 Jennifer Jason Leigh John Schlesinger Barry Sonnenfeld Cinequest 8 Jon Jost Michael Pilz Lena Stolze Paul Bartel Cinequest 1 Cinequest 2 Cinequest 3 Cinequest 4 John Waters Neil Jordan Michael Radford Gus Van Sant Cinequest 5 Cinequest 6 Cinequest 6 Cinequest 6 Kevin Spacey Elmer Bernstein Jackie Chan Walter Murch Cinequest 7 Cinequest 8 Cinequest 8 Cinequest 8 Cinequest 8 Robert M. Young Vilmos Zsigmond Jennifer Beals Gabriel Byrne Rod Steiger Cinequest 8 Cinequest 9 Cinequest 9 Cinequest 9 Cinequest 9 Cinequest 10 Alec Baldwin Wes Craven Peter Fonda Ron Shelton Richard Leacock Cinequest 10 Cinequest 10 Cinequest 10 Cinequest 10 Cinequest 11 Cinequest 11 Cinequest 11 Sir Ian McKellen Lalo Schifrin David Strathairn Lili Taylor Ralph Bakshi Stephen Frears William H. Macy Cinequest 12 Cinequest 12 Cinequest 12 Cinequest 2003 Cinequest 2003 Cinequest 2003 Dario Argento Cinequest 12 Spike Lee ? To Be Announced February 14th Lupe Ontiveros Val Kilmer James Woods Cinequest 2003 Cinequest 2003 Cinequest 2003 tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 36|CINEQUEST www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST LIFE LEAVES MARKS THE LOSS OF NAMELESS THINGS (La Vida Mancha) 3/4, 5:00pm (REP) 3/8, 10:00pm (C3) 3/7, 2:00pm (UT SJSU) 3/8, 5:00pm (UT-SJSU) Director Enrique Urbizu; Producers Gerardo Herrero, Fernando Victoria de Lecea; Executive Producer Fernando Victoria de Lecea; Screenwriter Michel Gaztambide; Cinematographer Carles Gusi; Editor Pablo Blanco; Composer Mario de Benito; Cast José Coronado, Zay Nuba, Juan Sanz, Sandro Polo, Yohana Cobo; 105min/35mm/Spain; Spanish with English subtitles Director Bill Rose; Producer Bill Rose; Cinematographers Mickey Freeman, Jerry Slick, Bill Bishop; Editor Rick LeCompte; Composers Barney Jones, Joan Jeanrenaud; 110min/HD-CAM/United States Pedro Salazar has been away from home for a long time. Too long. Alone and immersed in his shady business, he has managed to save enough money to return and start a new, normal life, if possible. His brother, Fito, has led a different life: married with one child, he owns a truck that would provide them with enough for their needs, if it weren’t for his gambling problem. His wife, Juana, tries to help him the way she knows best, by loving him more. But the situation is on the verge of exploding when Pedro arrives home. For a time, the trio undergoes one of the biggest tests: that of love and sacrifice, from which they emerge with the scrapes and scars that show life leaves marks. "The delicately impressive, offbeat drama Life Leaves Marks represents a new direction for Enrique Urbizu... The film's multiple merits include a gold-plated, lovingly-worked script, a confident, leisurely pace and the full capacity to exploit minimal elements to the dramatic full. Carles Gusi's sunlight-drenched lensing is beautifully crisp and airy, in keeping with the film's generally stark, clean-lined look." -- Jonathan Holland (Variety) Palo Alto filmmaker Bill Rose reveals the evocative story of one man’s fall from grace, of artistic paradise lost and hard won resurrection and of an inspired artistic life. In 1978, Oakley Hall III was a 28-year-old playwright with a reputation for brilliance and on the verge of national recognition. The son of a novelist, Hall was the charismatic co-founder of the Lexington Conservatory Theater in upstate New York, where he served as artistic director. Mandy Patinkin and William Hurt are just a couple of the major players who starred in his stage readings. An enfant terrible in every sense, Hall’s future was brighter than he could imagine, and he had completed his work on one of his best plays. Then, tragically, head injuries from a mysterious fall from a bridge took away his artistic life, and there was little thought of him ever writing again…until twenty-five years later, when a Northern California theater company received a grant to produce the very play Hall was writing when he fell. The story does not end there, however, as The Loss of Nameless Things uncovers much more about Hall’s work and that fateful night, long ago. It is the tale about how one powerful soul finds strength in who he is, when he could no longer be who he’d been. Al Owens Al Owens GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: LATINO FILM CELEBRATION CINEQUEST DXD |37 LIFE LEAVES MARKS Tornasol Films S.A. C/Veneras, 9, Piso 7 Madrid, 28013 Spain P: 34 91 102 3024 F: 34 91 542 2870 [email protected] THE LOSS OF NAMELESS THINGS 1990 Newell Rd Palo Alto, CA 94303 United States P: (650) 328-1529 F: (650) 325-3211 [email protected] www.thelossofnamelessthings.com LOVE HURTS Altavista Films, S.A. Avendida Paseo De Las Palmas 1005 - Ds1, Col Lomas De Chapultepec Mexico P: 52 55 5201 9000 F: 52 55 5201 9352 [email protected] MADNESS AND GENIUS 1242 Ticonderoga Drive Chesterfield, MO 63017 United States P: (917) 576-5309 [email protected] MADNESS AND GENIUS LOVE HURTS (Amar te Duele) 3/6, 9:00pm (C1) 3/10, 4:30pm (C1) 3/7 9:15pm (REP) 3/8, 7:30pm (MD-SJSU) Director Fernando Sariñana; Producers Fernando Sariñana, Eckehardt Von Damm, Francisco G. Compean; Screenwriter Carolina Rivera; Cinematographer Salvador Cartas; Editor Roberto Bolado; Composer Enrique Quezadas; Cast Luis Fernando Peña, Martha Higareda, Armando Hernández, Ximena Sariñana; 105min/35mm/Mexico; Spanish with English subtitles Director Ryan Eslinger; Producer Ryan Eslinger; Screenwriter Ryan Eslinger; Cinematographer Steve Huber; Editor Ryan Eslinger; Composer Ryan Eslinger; Cast Tom Noonan, David James Hayward, David Williams, Christine Meyers, Norm Golden; 103 min/HD-CAM/United States Renata is the pampered eldest daughter of a wealthy bourgeois family, and Ulises is a native Mexican youth from the wrong side of the tracks. When the two meet in a shopping mall, it is love at first sight. They exchange a kiss and are soon organizing secret assignations and exchanging vows of eternal love. The young couple soon learns that class and race prejudices are still strong in modern Mexico. Neither friends (on either side) nor family are very accommodating. Renata's snobbish parents are appalled by her choice in lovers, going so far as to attempt to end the affair by packing her off to Canada. Meanwhile, the affair sends ripples through their circle of friends, and it will take all of Renata and Ulises’ love to avoid the impending violent confrontation. But are they too late? Director Fernando Sariñana’s confident technique blends stunning visuals with a hip soundtrack to bring his modern Romeo and Juliet to life — as star-crossed lovers traverse boundaries to be together in the chaos of Mexico City. Al Owens Madness and Genius is an arresting debut from 22-year-old director Ryan Eslinger, who became inspired at the age of thirteen to make his film. The result is a remarkable story involving human relationships, redemption and, ultimately, the alienation that results from those who suffer from madness and genius. Frank (brilliantly portrayed by Tom Noonan), a once brilliant scientist and professor, is haunted by a discovery in his past and may be quietly going mad. Jordan, a student with a photographic memory, is on the verge of flunking out of school and desperately attempts to attach himself to his reclusive and eccentric professor. Nigel, suffering from Lou Gehrig’s disease and feeling socially inept due to his physical inadequacies, tutors Jordan as a means to maintain some kind of bond with another student. He also seeks to draw the attention of his beautiful teaching assistant, who barely acknowledges his existence. It is through the intertwining of these three lives that earth-shattering secrets soon unfold. Shot in beautiful black and white High-Definition and featuring an artistic talent far more mature than most of the top directors working today, Madness and Genius is a provocative tale of science, philosophy, blackmail, isolation and hope. Sandy Wolf GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: LATINO FILM CELEBRATION CINEQUEST DXD www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST 38|CINEQUEST When it comes to your advertising, size matters. So buy your ads by the foot _ not the inch. On-screen advertising at the Camera Cinemas is built around feature presentations of photography, poetry and high quality works of art. Your message reaches a highly educated, affluent, and desirable target audience in a larger than life format. For rates and information visit Gillusions.com 408-836-1796 www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST MADRID THE MAGICAL LIFE OF LONG TACK SAM Presented by: 3/8, 7:00pm (C1) 3/9, 9:30pm (C3) 3/12, 3:00pm (C1) 3/4, 7:15pm (C3) 3/6, 12:45pm (C3) Director Daphne Charizani; Producers Sabine Lamby, Giulio Ricciarelli; Screenwriter Daphne Charizani; Cinematographer Lars Barthel; Editor Claudia Tronnier; Composer Martin Probst; Cast Kathrin Angerer, Carlos Lopez, Oliver Masucci, Jennifer Minetti, Steffen Scheumann; 85min/35mm/Germany; German with English subtitles Director Ann Marie Fleming; Producers Ann Marie Fleming, Svend-Erik Eriksen; Executive Producers Bruce Alcock, Ruth Vincent, Ann Marie Fleming, Rina Fraticelli; Cinematographer Ann Marie Fleming; Editors Ann Marie Fleming, Ileana Pietrobruno; Composer Patric Caird; 90min/Beta SP/Canada; English Madrid is a gorgeous and elegant film that generates a unique brilliance through its haunting mixture of delicate ambiance, stunning, graceful cinematography and subtle emotional resonance. In Isabel's veins flow the heat and passion of Spain, the land of her ancestors. By day, an assistant manager at a local grocery store, she lives in a suburban German town, spending her evenings discouraged by her love life. After losing one ungrateful young man, Isabel is initially intrigued by the handsome businessman, Manuel, who has taken up shop in the building across from her store. Half Spanish, half German, ambitious, aiming for goals he cannot yet reach, rugged yet sensitive, Manuel knows women. And he knows when the right one comes along. Fueled by desire, Isabel is taken in quickly but soon begins to re-think her decision as his demands upon her increase rapidly. Forced to make weighty choices with a man she barely knows, Isabel finds herself with no one to whom to turn. In her most exasperating moments, she finds solace in the memory of her childhood in Madrid and the sound of her homeland’s music which fires her soul. Greek-born German director Daphne Charizani sensitively explores the meeting of two people of mixed cultures who are forced to draw their own, unique roadmap of life and love. Jennifer Glynn He trained Laurel and Hardy and Orson Wells, he opened for the Marx Brothers, and he was publicly admired by George Burns and Ed Sullivan. Even Harry Houdini tried to recruit him for his exclusive inner circle. A brilliant acrobat and magician, Chinese-born Long Tack Sam was one of the greatest international vaudeville acts of all time. Trained from childhood in the ancient art of necromancy, Long Tack Sam married an Austrian shop girl and fathered three Eurasian children at a time when interracial marriage was rare. For over forty years, he traveled the world dazzling audiences with magic, acrobatic feats, ancient mysticism, comedy, and his beautiful and talented daughters. His narrow escapes from persecution during the world wars and his brushes with Hollywood fame are the stuff of legends. Director Anne Marie Fleming travels the globe to unearth the remarkable story of her great-grandfather and discover the reasons behind his disappearance from the annals of popular culture. What she discovers is a tale full of myth, magic, romance and near misses. The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam is a delightful, visual feast that uniquely blends different animation styles with actual footage to tell the story of a truly extraordinary man while evoking a wonderful, but forgotten, era. Preceded by: Confection; Dir. Eva Saks; 5min/35mm/United States – A delicious short film about a little girl who learns empathy from a pastry. Meredith Sherter Benston MAVERICK COMPETITION MAVERICK COMPETITION THE MAN WHO LOVED HAUGESUND THE MAN WHO COPIED (O homem que copiava) |39 MADRID Bavaria Film International Department of Bavaria Media GmbH Bavariafilmplatz 8 Geiselgasteig, 82031 Germany P: 49 89 6499 2686 F: 49 89 6499 3720 [email protected] www.bavaria-film-international.de THE MAGICAL LIFE OF LONG TACK SAM National Film Board of Canada 350 5th Ave #4820 New York, NY 10118 United States P: (212) 629-8890 F: (212) 629-8502 j. [email protected] www.nfb.ca THE MAN WHO COPIED Casa De Cinema De Porto Alegre Rua Miguel Tostes, 860 Porto Alegre, 90430-060 Brazil P: (55) 52 3331 1111 [email protected] www.ohomemquecopiava.com.br THE MAN WHO LOVED HAUGESUND Norwegian Film Institute PO Box 482 Sentrum Oslo, N-0105 Norway P: 47 22 47 45 75 F: 47 22 47 45 97 [email protected] www.nfi.no (Mannen Som Elsket Haugesund) 3/6, 4:15pm (C1) 3/8, 3:00pm (C3) 3/9, 12:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/4, 5:15pm (C3) 3/5, 5:00pm (C3) Director Jorge Furtado; Producer Nora Goulart; Executive Producer Luciana Tomasi; Screenwriter Jorge Furtado; Cinematographer Alex Sernambi; Editor Giba Assis Brasil; Composer Leo Henkin; Cast Lázaro Ramos, Leandra Leal, Pedro Cardoso, Luana Piovani; 124min/35mm/Brazil; Portuguese with English subtitles Directors Jon Haukeland, Tore Vollan; Producer Hanne Myren; Cinematographer Tore Vollan; Editors Søren Ebbe, Trygve Hagen, Hanne Myren; Composer Richard Johnsen; 60min/Digital Beta/Norway, Denmark; Norwegian with English subtitles André is a 20-year-old high school dropout who operates the photocopy machine at a stationery-cum-bookstore and lives with his mother. He likes drawing. He really likes Silvia. And he desperately needs $38. Too shy to approach Silvia on the bus, André follows her to work where he feigns interest in buying a $38 bathrobe. In order to see Silvia again, he promises to return soon with the money. Now, all he has to do is figure out how to get it. Nothing a good copy machine, the right kind of paper and one $50 bill can’t remedy. André soon realizes that he can earn a lot more than $38, and, with the help of a sexy lady and her kooky boyfriend, André finds himself in trouble with more than the law. The man who copied yields a unique vision and winningly personal style from director Jorge Furtado who perfectly blends drama, comedy and romance to create an impressive, moving portrait of Brazil and its people. The man who copied is a visual feast that tells an endearing story of yearning, both for money and for love. Sandy Wolf Great stories are timeless. Great people are inspirational. Sometimes, on a rare occasion, we are lucky enough to discover both. A Polish Jew, Moritz Rabinowitz, was an astute businessman who built his clothing empire from scratch, after years of selling textiles and watches from village to village. Before the war, he was an outspoken fighter against Nazism and was the first person the Germans wanted to arrest after the occupation. He wrote prolifically (including telegraphs to Winston Churchill and Franklin Roosevelt pleading for them to save the Jews of Germany and Poland), while alienating many in his small hometown, the Norwegian fishing village of Haugesund. The Man who Loved Haugesund captures Rabinowitz’s complex personality, through the eyes and ears of a small town, while offering a glimpse of looming global terror. Veteran documentary filmmakers, Jon Haukeland and Tore Vollan, combine astute insight and poetic storytelling in bringing Rabinowitz and Haugesund into our 21st century entrepreneurial, now orange-alert consciousness. Ben Hess Preceded by: Caravan; Dir. Dag Mørk; 9min/35mm/Norway – A couple’s caravan gets in the way of their troubled love life. Preceded by: United We Stand; Dir. Hans Petter Morland; 9min/35mm/Norway Eight old-timers come upon a young woman stuck in a swamp. MAVERICK COMPETITION GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: FOCUS ON NORWAY tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 40|CINEQUEST {located on The Alameda between HP Pavillion & The Camera Cinemas } Modern Industrial Contemporary Energetic Unique Seven Restaurant & Lounge features fresh American cuisine influenced by classic French tecniques, a hip, energetic lounge, and a modern industrial design. We are San Jose's newest hot spot and look forward to being your next dining experience. Conveniently located on The Alameda. 754 The Alameda San Jose, CA. 95126 Phone/408.280.1644 Fax/ 408.280.1818 www.7restaurant.us www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST MILES AHEAD THE MAN WHO WIPES MIRRORS THE MAN WHO WIPES MIRRORS (Mirror Wo Fuku Otoko) 3/6, 12:00pm (Rep) 3/9, 2:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/12, 2:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/13, 9:30pm (C3) 3/14, 4:45pm (UT-SJSU) Director Seisoku Kajita; Producers Yukio Takemura, Makoto Ueda, Haruhiko Yoshida, Natsuko Kitani, Takafumi Ohashi; Screenwriter Seisoku Kajita; Cinematographer Shogo Ueno; Editor Seisoku Kajita; Composer Akira Senjyu; Cast Ken Ogata, Komaki Kurihara, Issa Hentona, Ryoko Kuninaka, Masahiko Tsugawa; 117min/35mm/Japan; Japanese with English subtitles Directors Dylan Trivette, Matt Zboyovski; Producer Jonathan F. Mertz; Screenwriters Dylan Trivette, Matt Zboyovski; Cinematographer Kenneth Wilson II; Editor Joseph Hahle; Composer Joshua Chase; Cast Ben Allison, Timm Perry, Lindsay Ayliffe, Hannah Pifer; 85min/35mm/United States Obsession is generally considered a negative; something that consumes so much of the mind must only destroy the spirit that enraptured it in the first place. Sometimes, however, an obsession is merely another monotonous habit unless combined with the compulsion to change one’s world for the better. Tsutomu Minagawa is set to retire; the organized business life, a perfectly normal family living in a two-story house with a garage, the once unstoppable routine is about to close down forever. However, Tsutomu’s last day changes him forever, as a car accident leads to his new purpose and sets him on a mission to clean every traffic mirror in Japan in order to save lives. So, with stepladder and cleaning supplies in tow and, hopefully, with the support of his family, Tsutomu sets out on a countrywide bicycle tour to try to rectify the past. Beautifully photographed throughout Japan, director Seisoku Kajita’s The Man Who Wipes Mirrors evokes the softer side of life both in message and form. It is a journey that is as heartfelt as it is inspirational. John Ignowski In Miles Ahead, a sterling debut worthy of Terrence Malick’s Badlands, writer-directors Dylan Trivette and Matt Zboyovski present a striking and sensitive tale about coming of age, expanding horizons and learning the true power of talent. Taking advantage of the beautiful, and sometimes haunting, backdrop of the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina, the story follows young Miles Williams (played by the impressive Ben Allison, Cold Mountain), an aspiring writer who, with college just around the corner, spends his summer silently pondering his future through thoughts and visions of past memories. As the weeks go by, however, tensions emerge in his small-town, and Miles’ complex demeanor begins to breakdown and a sense of being trapped materializes. Miles’ strained relationships with his father and girlfriend add to his isolation, and a sudden accident involving his best friend adds to making the open road increasingly attractive to him. Bursting with new and fresh talent, Miles Ahead is an intimate and visually striking story that finds beauty and excitement in the most deceptively quiet moments of life. It is independent filmmaking at its most affecting and original. Fernando F. Croce GLOBAL LANDSCAPES PACIFIC BASIN SHOWCASE |41 EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS THE NIGHTOWLS OF COVENTRY THE MYSTERY OF THE TRINIDAD Pal Entertainment Products 2-6, KomacTata, 2 Chome Taito - Ku Tokyo, 111-0043 Japan P: 81 3 3847 3141 F: 81 3 3847 3142 [email protected] www.pal-ep.com MILES AHEAD Biography, LLC 1212 Cranbrook Dr Arden, NC 28704 United States P: (828) 651-4454 F: (828) 651-4454 [email protected] www.milesahead-themovie.com <<Use as sidebar with film writeups>> THE MYSTERY OF TRINIDAD Altavista Films, S.A. Avenida Paseo De Las Palmas 1005 - DS1, Col Lomas De Chapultepec Mexico P: 52 55 5201 9000 F: 52 55 5201 9352 [email protected] THE NIGHTOWLS OF COVENTRY NightOwl Productions 3382 Dellwood Rd Cleveland, OH 44118 United States P: (216) 321-3280 F: (216) 321-3279 [email protected] www.nightowlsofcoventry.com (El Misterio del Trinidad) 3/9, 9:30pm (MD-SJSU) 3/11, 5:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/5, 2:45pm (C3) 3/12, 4:45pm (C1) Director José Luis García Agraz; Producer Fernando Cámera, Antonio Cardenal; Screenwriters Jose Luis García Agraz, Carlos Cuarón; Cinematographer Pedro Juan López; Editor Guillermo S. Maldonado; Composer Mastretta; Cast Eduardo Palomo, Rebecca Jones, Regina Blandón, Guillermo Gil, Alejandro Parodi; 100min/35mm/Mexico; Spanish with English subtitles Hemingway wrote that September was "the month when the great fish come. Anyone can be a fisherman in May." Juan faces similar tests of his choices in life in José Luis García Agraz’s haunting The Mystery of the Trinidad. Already in a funk as an unsatisfied physician, Juan is forced to come to terms with the double life of his recently deceased father — an undersea treasure hunter who had two families, one of which Juan was never allowed to contact. After inheriting his father’s ship — much to the dissatisfaction of his father’s other family — Juan tries to sell it, but soon finds that fate is leading him to take up the search where his father left off; a search for the sunken galleon Santísimo Trinidad…which soon becomes the search for knowledge about his family and himself. Reconnecting the pieces of a life fragmented by unjust secrets and lost explorations, Juan must find the balance between the love he wants and the passion he needs most without giving away one to find the other. John Ignowski Director Laura Paglin; Producer Laura Paglin; Screenwriter Laura Paglin; Cinematographer Carolyn Constantine; Editor Jim Klein; Composer Mark Suozzo; Cast Seymour Horowitz, Donna Casey, Paddy Connor, Bernard Canepari, Annie Kitral, Allan Pinsker; 75min/Digital Beta/United States In the early 70s, you could get anything you want at Alice's Restaurant. But at Marv's, you get whatever's on the plate. Like chewing gum stuck under a Formica countertop, Marv’s has been a less-than-appetizing side of Cleveland's Coventry Rd. neighborhood for as long as anyone can remember. Avuncular but seedy owner-operator Marv congenially presides over a motley, faithful after-hours crowd, maintaining an extramarital affair with head waitress Grace and slipping bribes to keep health inspectors out of the kitchen. But now the times (if not the pastrami and corned beef), they are a-changing. Marv's patrons have evolved from struggling students and elderly Jews to young anarchists and ferocious bikers; the burnt-out hippie freeloaders who protested Vietnam are giving way to proto-yuppies agitating for neighborhood improvements such as shutting down Marv's. Into this hash-house environment comes Susan, an innocent girl trying to hold her first job, bussing tables, whilst dodging both Marv's advances and Grace's dagger eyes. Susan finds equal servings of indigestion and community among the miscreants, freeloaders and hangers-on, while the eatery's expiration date draws ever closer. Part nostalgic comedy and part heartwarming drama, The NightOwls of Coventry is a delightful romp filled with wry humor, energetic characters and cleverly written dialogue. Excerpts from Cleveland Film Festival GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: LATINO FILM CELEBRATION Al Owens EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 42|CINEQUEST ONE MAN SHOW: A MUSICAL DOCUMENTARY Veritas Pictures 245 E 11th St., Suite 4A New York, NY 10003 United States P: (646) 221-2478 [email protected] www.onemanshowmovie.com PLAY Norwegian Film Institute PO Box 482 Sentrum Oslo, N-0105 Norway P: 47 22 47 45 75 F: 47 22 47 45 97 [email protected] www.nfi.no THE PRAYING MANTIS Marc Levie Visuals 390 Brusselsesteenweg Overijse, 3090 Belgium P: 32 2686 0170 F: 32 2686 0175 [email protected] www.lefestindelamante.be 3/12, 7:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/13, 7:15pm (UT-SJSU) 3/5, 9:15pm (C3) 3/6, 4:45pm (UT-SJSU) 3/8, 3:00pm (UT-SJSU) Director Ira Rosensweig; Producer Ira Rosensweig; Cinematographer Jeff Preston; Editor Ira Rosensweig; Composer Brian Hurley; 77min/HD-CAM/United States Director John Sullivan; Producer Tomas Backström; Screenwriter John Sullivan; Cinematographers Knut Kollandsrud, Marin Otterbeck; Editor Trond Oppheimsbakken; Composers Sven Ohr, Thomas Dybdahl, Unni Wilhelmsen; Cast Hege Aga Rostad, Linda M. Hverven, Nina Ellen Ødegård, Siren Jørgensen, Jan Marin Johnsen, Thorir Sæmundsson, Bartek Kaminski-Obuchovic, John Brungot; 85min/Digital Beta/Norway; Nowegian with English subtitles In his autobiographical one-man show, A Short Puerto Rican Guy Sings Songs of Angst, John Falcon — a gay, charismatic, struggling performance artist — sings, "I want to be rich, famous and powerful." Someone must have been at least half-listening: In 1999, John is blown away when he wins $45 million in the New York Lottery. After his sensational press conference makes local headlines, John appears nationally on the front page of major newspapers and as a guest on popular television shows. New Yorker Magazine devotes an entire story to this extraordinary personality. He then becomes the poster boy for the New York Lottery. John moves into a luxury high-rise condo, replaces his $20 wall hanging with original Edward Hoppers and spends $175,000 fixing his teeth. But as the saying goes, money can’t buy happiness. Friends and family begin to question his values, and when an old friend makes a shocking request, he begins to question theirs. Director Ira Rosensweig stretches the boundaries of the traditional documentary by interweaving telling moments from John’s musical show to create an insightful portrayal of this dynamic personality. Often absurd, and with outrageous and touching moments, One Man Show: A Musical Documentary is a contemplation on the question many of us have asked ourselves: "What would I do if I won the lottery?" Sandy Wolf QUALITY OF LIFE Quality of Life Film 589 Howard Street, 4th Floor San Francisco, CA 94105 United States P: (415) 543-5504 [email protected] www.qualityoflife-themovie.com PLAY ONE MAN SHOW: A MUSICAL DOCUMENTARY Where does acting stop and being start? That’s the question following a group of aspiring young actors as they embark on one last weekend getaway before going out into the real world. It will turn out to be a weekend they never forget. Nestled in a lovely country home, the days are filled with swimming, waterskiing, barbecuing — and revealing emotions. Full of hope and enthusiasm for their future careers, the friends at first try to hide their emotional dilemmas and anxieties. Only gradually do they realize that the house is the stage where their personal dramas will be played out. Released in Norway as the first feature in exclusive digital distribution, director John Sullivan’s Play is a refreshing and unconventional film about playfulness and playing with fire. Deftly balancing comedy and drama, Play bravely but delicately confronts the characters and their ambitions without neglecting their humanity. Played by an engaging ensemble cast (who also happen to be actual graduates from the National Drama School in Oslo), the film is reminiscent of the captivating tale, The Big Chill. Fernando F. Croce GLOBAL LANDSCAPES: FOCUS ON NORWAY MAVERICK COMPETITION THE PRAYING MANTIS QUALITY OF LIFE (Le Festin De La Mante) 3/10, 7:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/11, 9:15pm (UT-SJSU) 3/14, 4:30pm (C1) 3/12, 9:15pm (MD-SJSU) 3/13, 2:45pm (MD-SJSU) Director Marc Levie; Producer Marc Levie; Cinematographer Michel Van Laer; Editor Dominique Rollain; Composers Ulysse Waterlot, Laurent Mersch; Cast Lou Broclain, Yann Chely, Sacha Kollich; 96min/35mm/Belgium; French with English subtitles Director Benjamin Morgan; Producers Meika Rouda, Brant Smith; Screenwriters Benjamin Morgan, Brian Burnam; Cinematographers Kev Robertson; Sharon Franklin; Composer Count; Cast Lane Garrison, Brian Burnam, Luis Saguar, Mackenzie Firgens; 85min/HD-CAM/United States Julien’s intensely romantic relationship with the mysterious Sylvia unravels when she senses the instinct of a praying mantis growing inside her. Terrified and unwilling to harm the man she loves, Sylvia searches for another lover, and the result is an engaging exploration of the connection between eroticism and selfsacrifice. Quality of Life is a poignant tale of creative passion about the need to curb an obsession in order to conform to the demands of society. Director Benjamin Morgan journeys into a world typically seen only on buses and concrete, while inhabiting a subculture that is often thought to exist in the darkness of alleyways and rooftops. Director Marc Levie tempers fantastic images with familiar psychological insights. Sylvia’s lovers represent opposing sides of the masculine psyche: the faithful and sensitive Julien set against the risk-taking womanizer Patrick. Similarly, Sylvia, who moves effortlessly between tenderness and cruelty, illustrates the extremes of the feminine personality. A perfect blend of the ordinary with the extraordinary adds incredible depth to this unique tale of seduction. The supporting cast and the principle actors — Lou Boclain (Sylvia), Yann Chely (Julien), and Sacha Kollich (Patrick) — give moving performances, making each moment true to life, despite the story’s mythic narrative. These performances combined with the poetic vision of Marc Levie and Michel Van Laer’s lush renderings of the French landscape make The Praying Mantis an unforgettable experience. Robert Mello Michael and Curtis are 20-year-old graffiti artists and best friends who have been sharing their brilliant art with the citizens of San Francisco for ten years. Known to the police only by their reputations and tag names, "Heir" and "Vain," they are two of the most audacious artists around. But when they finally get busted and faced with the prospect of serving time, a personal crisis for both of them ensues. Faced with restitution and the prospect of serving hard time, Heir and Vain struggle to maintain their creative passion at any cost; not only their artwork, but also their friendship, depends on the outcome. Co-written by director Morgan and actor Brian Burnam (Vain) — himself deeply connected to the street art subculture of San Francisco — Quality of Life features the astounding beauty of actual art from leading graffiti artists. Both moving and universal, it is an incredible story of outcasts trying to capture the respect of a society that doesn’t want them. Sandy Wolf Preceded by: The Man Without a Head; Dir. Juan Solanas; 15min/35mm/France – With a nostalgic air, the man without a head dances with lively steps as he prepares himself for the romantic rendezvous. Tonight he will declare his love. EMERGING MAVERICKS AND NEW VISIONS www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS CINEQUEST RHAPSODY IN WHITE REWIND (Videoreul Boneun Naamja) (Rapsodia V Bjalo) REWIND 3/4, 2:45pm (C1) 3/5, 9:30pm (C1) 3/14, 10:00am (UT-SJSU) 3/6, 2:15pm (C1) 3/10, 7:30pm (C3) Director Hak-Soon Kim; Producer Hak-Soon Kim; Screenwriters Hak-Soon Kim, Young-Tae Lim; Cinematographer Eui-Duck Paeng; Editor Eun-Soo Lee; Composer Hoon-Young Chung; Cast Hyun-Sung Chang, Eun-Jin Pang, Youn-Hong Oh, HyunJin Sah; 98min/35mm/South Korea; Korean with English subtitles Director Teddy Moskov; Producers Kiril Gotzev, Radosvet Radev, Teddy Moskov, Stefan Kitanov, Evgeny Mihailov; Screenwriter Teddy Moskov; Cinematographer Ivan Tonev; Editor Teddy Moskov; Composer Antoni Donchev; Cast Maya Novosselska, Samuel Fintzi, Philip Triffonov, Irina Marinova; 86min/35mm/Bulgaria; Bulgarian with English subtitles Amidst the bustle of city life in South Korea, a man (played by the popular HyungSung Jang) wills his life away at the video store he runs. Having given up on his family life and law career, he is now comfortable with his solitude, happy to exchange the occasional word with a curious customer. The monotony of his life is broken one day by the sudden appearance of a love letter from a secret admirer. The man’s isolation begins to melt away as he works up enough courage to find the answers, especially after a mysterious homemade video appears in his return box a few weeks later — a video that has profound effects on his lonely soul. Director Hak-Soon Kim’s Rewind is a beguiling and romantic urban tale that, in its insights into modern loneliness and yearning, rivals the acclaimed Lost in Translation. With patience and tenderness, it finds magic and the possibility of love in the smallest details of life. Fernando F. Croce "I try to laugh at things which make us sad. I want comedy and tragedy to go hand in hand." -- Teddy Moskov Rhapsody in White is one of the most successful Bulgarian films in recent years. Director Teddy Moskov calls it a "fight against the triviality of life," and, indeed, there has never been anything quite like it. Funny yet sad, antic yet delicate, it virtually invents its own genre as it goes along. Working in the world of comedy clubs and puppet shows, Dana (Maya Novoselska) is already saddled with a skewed view of the world. From day to day, she wages a war against the realities of life by escaping into her own fantasy world, where such items as sock puppets and railroads achieve magical status. As the outside world closes in on her, however, how long will Dana be able to keep her innocence intact? An often breathtaking tightrope act, Rhapsody in White is a whimsical resurrection of the innocence of comedy and a bow to silent cinema, with references to Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Jacques Tati. In an amazing central performance, Novoselska bridges the ridiculous and the sublime. Fernando F. Croce GLOBAL LANDSCAPES PACIFIC BASIN SHOWCASE EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS SAD SPANISH SONG 3/13, 9:15pm (MD-SJSU) 3/14, 1:30pm (MD-SJSU) |43 BK Cinema Sogang University Grad School Of Media Communication 1 Shinsu-Dong, Mapo-Gu Seoul, 121-742 South Korea P: (82)-2-705-8897 F: (82)-2-705-8067 [email protected] RHAPSODY IN WHITE ART Fest Ltd. 1 Bulgaria Square Sofia, 1463 Bulgaria P: 359 2916 6029 F: 359 2916 6714 [email protected] SAD SPANISH SONG Choza Y Conuco Film Works 27 Arion Place #216 Brooklyn, NY 11206 United States P: (646) 345-7684 [email protected] www.sadspanishsong.com SECURITY Glass Eye Productions 530 Hampshire #403 San Francisco, CA 94110 United States P: (415) 864-6940 F: (415) 431-8456 [email protected] SECURITY 3/12, 9:15pm (C3) 3/14, 11:30am (MD-SJSU) Director Ef Treize; Producers Courtney Puig, Ef Treize; Screenwriter Ef Treize; Cinematographer Arsenio Assin; Editor Ef Treize; Cast Ian Reed, Bo Corre, Garibaldi Reyes, Ronnie Bobbit, Bianca Rhea; 110min/HD-CAM/United States When dumped by his girlfriend, a man must do what a man must do — in this case, get the hell out of town and move to New York City. That’s precisely where this story begins. Immediately upon arrival in The Big Apple, our hero (or The Brit) learns that the small apartment his sister got him includes another occupant. Enter Panama, who doesn’t speak a word of English and is in hiding from the police. While attempting to communicate in different languages (often resulting in hilarious tête-à-têtes), a budding friendship forms between two people stuck in an outlandish situation. The Brit and Country, a street kid from The Hood, have quite a different kind of relationship, however, especially since their first encounter involves Country’s mugging of The Brit in a men’s room. Then, there’s Cyd, mother of one. When her daughter wanders off in the park, Cyd finds her befriending The Brit and accuses him of kidnapping. Not the best way to begin a romance. Director Ef Treize develops characters who couldn’t be more different, yet all are picking up the pieces of their unfulfilled lives. Treize’s clever, comic style gives insight into each character and asks if it is fate or our own idiosyncrasies and foibles that allow us to connect with the people for whom we truly care. Director Brien Burroughs; Producer Brien Burroughs; Cinematographer Gerardo Merino; Editor Melissa Lawson; Composer Jason Tubbs; Cast Stephen Kearin, Tim Orr, Regina Saisi, Gerri Lawlor; 95min/Digital Beta/United States Pat and Bill take their jobs as rent-a-cops at the chocolate factory very, very seriously. Perhaps a little too seriously at times. So, when the "prototypical chocolate" is stolen during the graveyard shift (Pat and Bill’s shift), nothing can stop them from solving this most heinous of crimes. Although not having been given much in the brain category — the phrase "dumb as posts" comes to mind — Pat and Bill make up for that with a dogged dedication that goes beyond extreme. Whether ridiculed by the guards on the prestigious dayshift or threatened by a janitor’s toilet brush, nothing will derail Pat and Bill from their quest of exposing the sinister culprit. Even in the most absurd of situations — which are abundant — Pat and Bill never give up hope that they will save the day. And as the missing candy riddle starts to unravel, one can’t help but root for these bumbling heroes. Director Brien Burroughs (Suckerfish, Cinequest 2000) devises one of the most uproarious films of the year with his superb, offbeat style. Stephan Kearin and Tim Orr’s hilarious deadpan portrayals of the film’s odd couple make for the most loveably inept duo since Laurel and Hardy. Stir in the wickedly witty dialogue, which is all improvised, and you will split your side as if hit from Pat’s nightstick (if he can ever find it). Sandy Wolf Sandy Wolf CINEQUEST DXD EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 44|CINEQUEST find all this and free parking, too. Downtown San Jose. Follow the signs to free parking. Look for the blue-and-gold sign and get two hours of free daytime parking with validation from participating businesses. Park free after 6 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends and holidays at the nine lots and garages listed below displaying this sign. Market & San Pedro Square Garage » between Santa Clara and St. John streets Second & St. James Street Lot » across from St. James Park Third Street Garage » just north of Santa Clara Street San Fernando & Second Street Lot » enter on San Fernando Street Pavilion Garage » on Second Street, just south of San Fernando San Fernando & Third Street Lot » just north of the San Jose Repertory Theatre Fourth Street Garage » on San Fernando Street across from the new library Second & San Carlos Street Garage » also accessible from South Third Street Market & Balbach Street Lot » just south of the Convention Center FIND DIRECTIONS, MAPS AND MORE AT www.sjdowntownparking.com. www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST Your Pass to the Present. |45 ■ PRINTING ■ GRAPHIC PRODUCTION ■ DIGITAL COLOR ■ A Cinequest VIP Pass gives you entrée to today’s best movies, exclusive events and more. PLATINUM FESTIVAL PASS GOLD FESTIVAL PASS FILMS & FORUMS PASS THE PLATINUM PASS THE GOLD PASS • Priority Entry to ALL Festival Screenings • Opening Night Gala & Film • Closing Night Gala & Film • DXD Digital Media Forums • Day of the Writer • Day of Distribution • Global Landscapes Events • Maverick Spirit Events • Hospitality Lounge • Platinum Row Seating at Special Events • Metro Platinum / VIP Party Price . . . $500 ——————————— • Priority Entry to ALL Festival Screenings • Opening Night Gala & Film • DXD Digital Media Forums • Day of the Writer • Day of Distribution • Global Landscapes Events • Maverick Spirit Events Price . . . $195 ——————————— THE FILMS AND FORUMS PASS • Priority Entry to ALL Festival Screenings • DXD Digital Media Forums • Day of the Writer • Day of Distribution Price . . . $125 ——————————— Passes do not include Life of a Maverick fundraising event. CLICK: WWW.CINEQUEST.ORG or CALL: 408.295.FEST Combine a local printshop with the graphic capabilities of an advertising agency and you get Graphic Arts West. Look to us for event promotion, advertising art, web media and commercial printing. We have over 25 years of experience serving a wide range of local clients, from restaurants to high tech and everyone in between. A printing company with a graphic difference. Visit our website to see for yourself and get a free estimate on your next project. GRAPHIC ARTS WEST www.graphicartswest.com 831.429.5340 tix 408.295.FEST 408.998.7468 www.cinequest.org 46|CINEQUEST E scape to an Era of Grace and Charm...Without Sacrificing the Modern Conveniences of Today Walking through the doors of this National Historic Landmark hotel, you are transported to the timeless beauty of the early 20th century. The hand-carved furniture and breathtaking ceiling murals reflect the quiet elegance of a more relaxed era. However, the Hyatt Sainte Claire also mirrors the modern pulse of San Jose... offering secure wireless high-speed Internet access anywhere in the hotel, business friendly guestrooms and 10,000 sq. ft. of meeting space including the only glass enclosed solarium-style event room in San Jose. Located in the heart of downtown San Jose, the hotel is just across the street from the McEnery Convention Center and within easy walking distance of restaurants, theaters, and cultural attractions. San Jose is also home to world renowned wineries, NHL Sharks at the HP Pavilion, relaxing spas, and challenging golf. The Hyatt Sainte Claire...a perfect blend of grace and modern style. ® www.cinequest.org Hyatt Sainte Claire 302 South Market Street San Jose, CA 95113 Tel: 408.271.3303 Fax: 408.977.0403 http://sainteclaire.hyatt.com tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST SHELTER SHERIFF SHELTER Whirligig Production, Ltd 428 Humboldt St Brooklyn, NY 11211 United States P: (718) 383-1865 F: (718) 383-1865 [email protected] www.shelterthemovie.com SHERIFF 3/8, 7:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/10, 9:15pm (MD-SJSU) 3/13, 7:15pm (C3) 3/14, 4:30pm (C3) Director Benno Schoberth; Producers Lynn Cassaniti, Anthony Artis; Screenwriter Benno Schoberth; Cinematographer Brian Nisbett; Editors Benno Schoberth, Lynn Cassatini; Composer Anton Sanko; Cast Ray Santiago, John Rafael Peralta, Marilyn Soto Santiago; 80min/HD-CAM/United States Director Daniel Kraus; Producer Jason Davis; Cinematographer Daniel Kraus; Editor Daniel Kraus; 57min/Digital Beta/United States Set in Brooklyn’s Bedford Stuyvesant, Shelter is the tale of three inner-city adolescents: the reclusive 16-year-old Ray (Ray Santiago, of Girlfight and Pinero) who tends his bedridden mother; his brother, Spider; and the very pregnant Maria. When his mother dies, Ray becomes determined to get away. At the same time, Maria’s drug problems get her thrown out of her sister’s apartment, and she turns to Spider, only to find Ray gone. The two set out on a frantic search and eventually find Ray in a deserted Times Square alley. In a stolen car, the three drive aimlessly into the night. At daybreak, they find themselves on a desolate beach in a world of natural beauty that is both breathtaking and unfamiliar. In this magical setting, they attempt to form a surrogate family, after taking solace in a beach house. As Maria’s pregnancy advances, she cocoons herself with Ray in a make-believe world of "playing house." But will their newfound haven survive the jealousies that arise among them? Tough-minded and vibrant, Shelter mixes urban squalor with magical beauty for one of the most breathtakingly original stories of the year. In it, the power of friendship and love in the face of hardship transcends harsh realities, and the characters’ search for a home becomes as moving as it is devastating. Fernando F. Croce MAVERICK COMPETITION |47 Ronald E. Hewett is a good, law-abiding man, who just happens to be the Sheriff in rural North Carolina — perhaps not the world's most glamorous job. Yet, through Hewett's activities as Brunswick County's number-one citizen, we discover this apparently simple man to be an extremely complex person when thrust into complicated, often dangerous situations. Hewett's duties are far reaching: from a raid of a poker parlor, to a manhunt, to a bizarre murder investigation, to recovering stolen ceramic bunnies. And all throughout, the film is overwhelmed with a sense of the real American South — the roaring of the locusts and mosquito-filled swamps are matched by the thick, gentlemanly accent of Hewett and his men. Director Daniel Kraus (Ball of Wax, 2003 Cinequest) astonishes his viewer with a richly textured journey through the eyes of a man balancing a decent existence within a world that is seemingly devoid of morals. Using classic cinema vérité techniques of such influential filmmakers as Frederick Wiseman and D.A. Pennebaker, Kraus strives not to inject subjective opinions about Hewett, inviting instead our own interpretations, as a "fly on the wall." Through the brilliant use of this starkly minimalist technique, the only thing that affects our observations is Sheriff Hewett himself. And no matter how serious, strange or comic the situation Sheriff Hewett finds himself in, one thing consistently shines through — his own humanity. Sandy Wolf Preceded by: Dysenchanted; Dir. Terri Edda Miller; 9min/35mm/United States – Fairy tale princesses dish the dirt in a therapy session, but what happens when a New Jersey divorcee joins the group: the discussion takes a turn. Go Pictures 1348 N Bell #2R Chicago, IL 60622 United States P: (773) 252-1646 [email protected] www.sheriffmovie.com THE SILENCE BETWEEN TWO THOUGHTS World Cinema Publicity P: 33 1 48 04 51 73 F: 33 1 48 04 80 43 [email protected] www.filmpressplus.com SLIM SUSIE Swedish Film Institue Box 27126 Stockholm, SE-102 52 Sweeden P: 46 8 665 11 00 F: 46 8 666 36 98 [email protected] www.sfi.se MAVERICK COMPETITION SLIM SUSIE (Smala Sussie) THE SILENECE BETWEEN TWO THOUGHTS Special thanks to the BARBRO OSHER PRO SUECIA FOUNDATION for making this screening possible. (Sokaate Beine Do Feks) 3/4, 1:00pm (REP) 3/5, 5:15pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 9:15pm (UT-SJSU) 3/12, 7:00pm (C1) 3/13, 12:00pm (C1) Director Babak Payami; Producer Babak Payami; Screenwriter Babak Payami; Cinematographer Farzad Jodat; Editors Jafar Panahi, Babak Karimi; Cast Maryam Moghaddam, Kamal Naroui; 95min/BetaCam/Iran; Farsi with English subtitles Director Ulf Malmros; Producer Christer Nilson; Screenwriters Petteri Nuottimäki, Ulf Malmros; Cinematographer Mats Olofson; Editor Ulf Malmros; Cast Tuva Novotny, Jonas Rimeika, Kjell Bergqvist, Michael Nyqvist, Björn Starrin; 101min/35mm/Sweden; Swedish with English subtitles Inspired in part by the Taliban’s rule in Afghanistan, The Silence Between Two Thoughts is a remarkable, austere, provocative film. It is also an astonishing and important film. In the tradition of Trainspotting and Pulp Fiction, Slim Susie is a "gangster comedy," set in a rural Swedish town with an assortment of original oddballs. In a remote village in an unspecified land, a fundamentalist Haji’s decree that a young woman be executed is halted because "criminals must go to hell, but an executed virgin will go to heaven." However, the Haji is determined that his sentence be carried out, so he orders the executioner to marry the young woman, thus making him both her husband and her potential executioner. The young man finds himself in a moral, philosophical and religious quagmire, stranded in the silence between two thoughts, as much a prisoner of the Haji’s rulings as is the young woman. The film, director Payami’s third (after his highly successful Secret Ballot), "addresses the dilemma of a people whose religious beliefs are exploited to rule them. But the film offers a humanistic view of a violent and tragic situation." The negatives for this astonishing film were confiscated by the Iranian authorities even before the film was completed. This version was painfully reconstructed from computer tapes by the director in exile. The Silence Between Two Thoughts is the epitome of the Maverick Spirit on every level conceivable and is a must see for any serious film aficionado. Charlie Cockey MAVERICK COMPETITION For years, Erik has lived in Stockholm, after moving away from his dull hometown where it wasn't even possible to see a film all the way to the end. Now, he returns to his boyhood home upon discovering that his younger sister, sweet, innocent Susie, is missing. But home is not what it used to be; it is far from what Erik remembers. Erik’s best friends from school have turned into wannabe gangsters — one being a druggie who arranges Stanley Kubrick festivals and makes pornos starring himself and the local policeman's wife. Additionally, the eccentric residents of the town seem to know a lot more than they are letting on, and Erik soon realizes that nothing is as it appears, both in the town and the facts surrounding Susie’s past. Through a brilliant combination of straight narrative and flashbacks within flashbacks, director Ulf Malmros creates a roller coaster ride filled with heaps of humor and action. With superb performances by Kjell Bergquist, Tuva Novotny (one of Sweden’s hottest actresses) and Jonas Rimeika, as well as a cast of truly memorable townsfolk, friends and neighbors, Slim Susie will keep you baffled and laughing hysterically at the same time. Sandy Wolf MAVERICK COMPETITION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST 48|CINEQUEST ww www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST m w.stratta.co CINEQUEST SOLDIERS OF THE ROCK |49 SOLID AIR SOLDIERS OF THE ROCK 3/6, 10:00am (REP) 3/10, 5:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/11, 3:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/5, 12:30pm (C1) 3/11, 7:00pm (C3) 3/13, 9:00pm (C1) Director Norman Maake; Producers Darren Gordon; Executive Producers Garth Holmes, Brett Ballinski, Carl Fischer; Screenwriter Norman Maake, Bata Passchier; Cinematographer Natalie Haarhof; Editor Bata Passchier; Composer Benjamin Willem; Cast Vuvo Dabula, Glen Gabela, Moshweshwe Chabedi, Michael Dlamini, Sibusiso Mhlangu; 93 min/35mm/South Africa Director May Miles Thomas; Producer Owen Thomas; Executive Producer Lenny Crooks; Screenwriter May Miles Thomas; Cinematographer Neville Kidd; Editor May Miles Thomas; Composer Bobby James Henry; Cast Maurice Roëves, Brian McCardie; Kathy Kiera Clarke, Gary Lewis; 118min/35mm/United Kingdom It is the deep, dark bowels of the Earth. It is the ever dangerous; the claustrophobic. It is the world of the South African gold mine, a world not for the weak of heart. Vuyo, an idealistic but inexperienced student, searches for answers about his longlost father amidst the economic chaos and political infighting of the failing mine company where his father was crushed to death by a rock fall. It is here, deep under the surface, where Vuyo meets the men his father worked side by side with for 35 years — a team of men trapped in the darkness of circumstance, caught between the cross-fire of losing their jobs or continuing to mine the treacherous terrain. And it is also here where Vuyo must make a choice whether or not to embark on a journey out of his own darkness into the light. But in order to find himself, Vuyo must find what made his father risk his life in a search for the yield-rich gold slopes buried five kilometers below. Soldiers of the Rock marks the directorial debut of 21-year-old Norman Maake, as he heads a mostly student crew from the South African School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performance in this remarkably mature tale of survival and courage. Set in the twin worlds of high-stakes gambling and the law, May Miles Thomas’ psychological drama, Solid Air, displays the skillful artistry of a confident filmmaker, as she explores mortality, injustice, betrayal and paternal love. In his late 50s, lonely divorcee, Robert Houston, suffers from asbestosis, a progressive and fatal disease. In a pursuit to win compensation, he embarks on a civil action case against his former employers. As Robert ties up loose ends, his estranged son, Robert Junior, arrives on his doorstep seeking refuge because of the enormous gambling debt he has amassed — a situation he keeps secret from his father. When Junior discovers his father’s pitiful, out-of-court settlement, he confronts his father’s lawyer and takes up the case. However, when Robert learns of his son’s true motivation to use the settlement money to reconcile his debt, suspicions turn to torment. But Junior continues undeterred in his pursuit, which leads to the sins of both father and son being unveiled. Based on actual events, Solid Air is a stunning cinematic feast that leads to a poignant conclusion, uniting an unlikely pair who face adversity as a means to beat the odds. Al Owens John Ignowski MAVERICK COMPETITION EMERGING MAVERICKS & NEW VISIONS The National School of Motion Picture Medium and Live Performances South Africa PO Box 277, Melville 2109 Johnnesburg, Gauteng South Africa P: 27 (0) 11 482 8345 F: 27 (0) 11 482 8347 [email protected] www.filmdramaschool.co.za SOLID AIR Elemental Films 37 Garnethill Street Glasgow, G3 6QD United Kingdom P: 44 141 332 0375 F: 44 141 332 0375 [email protected] www.elementalfilms.co.uk SPECTRES Shadowland, LLC 2623 E Foothill Blvd, Suite 101 Pasadena, CA 91107 United States P: (626) 584-9576 F: (626) 792-2709 [email protected] shadowlandfilms.com/spectres THE STORY OF THE WEEPING CAMEL THINKFilm 155 Avenue of the Americas, 7th Floor New York, NY 10013 United States P: (646) 293-9400 F: (646) 293-9407 www.thinkfilmcompany.com THE STORY OF THE WEEPING CAMEL SPECTRES (Die Geschiechte Vom Weinenden Kamel) 3/6, 7:30pm (C3) 3/7, 4:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 4:30pm (C1) 3/9, 9:00pm (C1) Director Phil Leirness; Producers Robert Ballo, Bud Robertson; Executive Producers Jack Heiter, Michael Crowley; Screenwriter Bud Robertson; Cinematographer Robert Ballo; Editor Ed Bishop; Composer John Boegehold; Cast Marina Sirtis, Dean Haglund, Tucker Smallwood, Lauren Birkell, Linda Park; 95min/HD-CAM/United States Directors Byambasuren Davaa, Luigi Falorni; Producer Tobias N. Siebert; Cinematographer Luigi Falorni; Editor Anja Pohl; Composer Marc Redinger; 93min/35mm/Germany, Mongolia; Mongolian with English subtitles Kelly is a beautiful, young 16-year-old who, like many teenagers, feels her life has become unbearably dark and depressed. Her father’s death, along with her workaholic mom, does not make life any easier, and a failed suicide attempt gives Kelly’s mom, Laura, a wake-up call. Hoping a change of scenery will help, mom and daughter rent a house for a long summer vacation. The big house on the hill offers peace, quiet and… mystery. It’s not all vacation, though. Part of Kelly’s recovery process includes regular sessions with a psychiatrist. Additionally, they’ve barely unpacked when Kelly starts a friendship with a young man whom her mom and doctor believe is merely a physical manifestation of her own defenses…an attempt to transform a scary world into a safe, welcoming place. But when they try to dismiss the young man, they unleash something that no one could see coming. Both a family drama and a mysterious ghost story, Cupertino-raised filmmaker Phil Leirness’ (The Party Crashers, Cinequest 1999) Spectres displays his unique talent for drawing complex characters balanced with stylish entertaining cinema. Al Owens SPECIAL PRESENTATION This wondrous, luminous film is more than simply the story of a family of nomads and their camels in the Gobi Desert of Mongolia; it is, in fact, a small miracle and not just another film. Occasionally, when a young cow has a particularly painful and protracted delivery, she will shun her calf, a potential disaster for the nomads, for whom every animal is precious. The Story of the Weeping Camel is the amazing story of one such birth, and the astonishing methods employed to coax the mother to accept her child. A graduation project for two students in the film school in Munich — one Italian, the other Mongolian — the tiny student crew traveled thousands of kilometers in the Gobi desert. What they found is more perfect than they could have hoped for. Since its premiere, the film has won awards at almost every festival in which it has appeared and is now the first Mongolian film ever to be submitted for an Oscar. There are occasional films that have the beauty, truth and clarity to enlarge our perception of the world in which we live. A rare find, The Story of the Weeping Camel is spectacular, mesmerizing and bound to be much discussed among those who venture to see it. Charlie Cockey Preceded by: (A) Torsion; Dir. Stefan Arsenijevic; 15min/35mm/Slovenia – During the siege of Sarajevo in the mid-90s, the only way out of town for ordinary people is a tunnel under the airport. MAVERICK COMPETITION tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 50|CINEQUEST SUNDAY ON THE ROCKS TURN RIGHT AT THE YELLOW DOG (Til højre ved den Gule hund) SUNDAY ON THE ROCKS 2 Lizzies Productions, LLC 78 Bedford St. #1-C New York, NY 10014 United States P: (212) 604-0704 F: (212) 604-0704 [email protected] TURN RIGHT BY THE YELLOW DOG Danish Film Institute Gothersgade 55 Copenhagen K, DK 1123 Denmark P: 45-3374-3400 F: 45-3374-3401 [email protected] www.dfi.dk VOTE FOR ME! 615 W 172 St #5F New York, NY 10032 United States P: (212) 568-0230 [email protected] www.voteformemovie.com WHEN RUOMA WAS SEVENTEEN Condor Han 7-1306 Nº 4, Xitucheng Road Haidian District Beijing 100088 China P: 8610 6422 7669 F: 8610 5108 1499 [email protected] 3/11, 7:30pm (C1) 3/13, 2:15pm (C1) 3/11, 5:15pm (C1) 3/12, 9:15pm (C1) 3/13, 4:15pm (C1) Director Joe Morton; Producers Cady Huffman, Amiee Turner; Screenwriter Theresa Rebeck; Cinematographer Henry Adebonojo; Editor Jeffrey Bair; Cast Cady Huffman, Julie White, Suzzanne Douglas, Amiee Turner; 75 min/35mm/United States Director Peter Ringgaard; Producer Steen Herdel; Screenwriters Peter Ringgaard, John Bernstein, Dana Van Nest; Cinematographer Bjørn Blixt; Editor George Keller; Composer George Keller; Cast Peter Gantzler, Kaspartin Lønnberg, Judy Gringer, Jesper Klein, Jytte Kvinesdal; 100min/35mm/Denmark; Danish with English subtitles Mixing strong drink with restless humor, Sunday on the Rocks is a voyeuristic romp with four roommates, a bottle of scotch and the universal struggles of love, faith, sex and friendship. Elly, Gayle, Jen and Jessica share an old Victorian house in New England. When Gayle discovers Elly having scotch for breakfast, Gayle’s playfulness quickly turns to concern when Elly reveals a troubling "secret." But Elly wants a drinking buddy, not someone to feel sorry for her, and craftily persuades Gayle to join her. And there is no difficulty in getting the sweet and sexy Jen to follow suit. But the party is abruptly halted when the sober Jessica arrives home from church, already in a bad mood. The peace of mind built on trust and faith in each other quickly dissolves into a battle of wills as all four women reflect on who they were, who they are and who they will be in relation to their world and their friendships. Prolific actor Joe Morton (Brother From Another Planet, Terminator 2, Lone Star) steps behind the camera to adapt Theresa Rebeck’s stage play. Sunday on the Rocks proves that divisions among friends can be resolved only with the escalation of emotions that drew those friends together in the first place. Philip is a successful architect, a single dad having a difficult time with his 16-yearold son. When he learns of his father’s death, a father who abandoned him years ago, Philip makes an obligatory journey to the funeral, only to find that he has a burning need to discover who this man was that he had resented for his entire life. At the funeral, Philip meets Karl, his father’s friend at the nursing home, and Karl sees an opportunity he can’t pass up. As Karl moves out of the nursing home and in with Philip, both father and son use Karl as the surrogate dad they had always hoped for. Karl is delighted with his newfound good fortune and opulent lifestyle and seeks to share it with a female friend whom he invites for more than just a visit. But both Philip and the charming Karl are in for big surprises with both amusing and poignant results. Director Peter Ringgaard’s Turn Right by the Yellow Dog is an affectionate and heartwarming comedy about the sorrows and joys of family that reveals that while it is not easy to replace missing love, under the right circumstances, and with luck, the tenderness that is within all of us can be found. Sandy Wolf John Ignowski MAVERICK COMPETITION MAVERICK COMPETITION VOTE FOR ME! WHEN RUOMA WAS SEVENTEEN (Ruoma De Shi Qi Sui) 3/10, 7:15pm (MD-SJSU) 3/11, 4:45pm (MD-SJSU) 3/13, 10:30am (UT-SJSU) 3/4, 9:15pm (C1) 3/5, 3:00pm (C1) 3/11, 1:00pm (UT-SJSU) Director Nelson Antonio Denis; Producers Lynn Tiede, Alex Rodriguez, Roni Wheeler, Salvador Bolivar; Executive Producer Ernest Dickerson; Screenwriter Nelson Antonio Denis; Cinematographer: Salvador Bolivar; Editor: Ricardo Serena; Composer Sammy Peralta; Cast Ricardo Barber, Malik Yoba, Angel Salazar, Jose Ramon Rosario, Gloria Irizarry, Manuel E. Santiago; 78min/HD-CAM/United States Director Zhang Jiarui; Producer Hou Keming, Wang Ziliang; Executive Producer Yang Hong Wei; Screenwriter Meng Jiazong; Cinematographer Ma Dongge; Editor Zhou Ying; Composers Huang Zhenyu, Dong Wei; Cast Li Min, Yang Zhigang, Shu Linyuan; 88min/35mm/China; Chinese with English subtitles How thin is the line between politics and madness? The exuberant comedy, Vote For Me!, set in El Barrio, New York City, finds out in one of the funniest satires in years, a razor-sharp look at how quickly the world of elections and candidates escalates into inspired lunacy. Leo Machuchal, a Puerto Rican building super, gets no respect. Constantly razzed by neighbors, local thugs and even domino players, Leo finds the chance of a lifetime when a congressman drops dead, and he finds himself the new candidate. With his new friends behind him, Leo pushes forward with his campaign, irascibly budding heads with rivals. Featuring a killer soundtrack and an energetic gallery of characters (including Soul Food’s Malik Yoba, acclaimed Rocardo Barber from Repertorio Español and nationally-known Latino comic Angel "Chi Chi" Salazar), Vote For Me! is a jamboree of uninhibited comedy that makes use of director Nelson Antonio Denis’ own experience as a former State Assemblyman. When it comes to laughs, it will have your vote. As another day dawns deep in the mountains of the Chinese Hani tribe, Ruoma wakes up to her seventeenth birthday. Just another day of selling sweet corn in the local village market and smiling for the cameras of tourists. That is, until she catches the eye of Ming, a struggling young photographer. Noticing Ruoma’s popularity, Ming hits on the idea of cashing in on her bright smile by having her pose with tourists against the scenic vistas of the Yunnan Valley. Ruoma, who dreams of going to the big city and "riding in a glass elevator," jumps at the opportunity. But will her ambition overwhelm her love for her family and friends? Zhang Jiarui’s film debut, When Ruoma Was Seventeen, is a serene and perceptive study of how a young woman’s romantic awakening is complicated by her cultural roots. Making ravishing use of both the Chinese landscape and the traditions of the Hani tribe, the film follows in the steps of such eye-openers as Fei Xie’s A Girl From Hunan and Zhang Yimou’s Red Sorghum. Fernando F. Croce Fernando F. Croce CINEQUEST DXD www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST GLOBAL LANDSCAPES PACIFIC BASIN SHOWCASE CINEQUEST SHORTS PROGRAM 1: COMEDY FAVORITES SHORTS PROGRAM 2: MINDBENDERS 3/4, 7:15pm (REP) 3/6, 2:45pm (REP) 110min 3/4, 9:45pm (REP) 3/5, 11:15pm (C3) 112min Cinequest presents Comedy Favorites with a gigantic bag of mixed nuttiness. Going from hilarious fantasy to sexy office humor to referential chuckles, this year’s comedies are more outrageous, more gut-busting and more daring than ever before. Tales of young filmmakers trying to get that last shot and of a psychiatrist dealing with that one tough patient fly alongside stories of retired 16-year-olds, odd sports and the light of the world. Japan, Brazil, and Germany are represented, as well as Bay Area filmmakers. You’ll find heavy chuckles sitting alongside sly smiles with this year’s Comedy Favorites. Note: for maximum enjoyment, pre-festival viewing should include La Jetée, 70s’ cop shows and the works of Margaret Cho. Of course, with none of these, you will still have loads of fun. Chris Garcia The Babysitter dir. Gideon Raff USA The Climatic Death of Dark Ninja dir. Peter Craig USA Dangle dir. Phil Traill Germany Karma Wheel dir. Austin Alward USA The Memo dir. Dahéli Hall USA The Morning Guy dir. Mark W. Gray USA Ode to Margaret Cho dirs. Susie Lee, Greg Pak USA Oh Yeah! dir. Lon Lopez USA Penalty Salmon dir. Eiji Shimada Japan La Puppé dir. Timothy Greenberg USA Restive Planet dir. John Cregan USA Spelunkers dir. Jim Lacy, Daniel Haude, Katrin Albers Germany Strawberry dir. Maíra Lopes Brazil |51 Every year, Cinequest scours the globe for films that can be appreciated by only the most twisted of film lovers. We call them Mindbenders. Filled with plot twists, surrealism and nightmare imagery, Mindbenders run the scale from the subtly bizarre to the experimental, from films that will make you scratch your head to ones that make you wonder if you’ve already lost it. There are visions of drugs, fishing obsessions, clowns of reckoning, dictatorial birthdays and a treatise on proper body disposal. Featuring an Oscar-nominated filmmaker, returning directors, and films from Australia, Germany, Norway, the United Kingdom and across the United States, Mindbenders tackle subjects odd, frightening and just plain weird — always managing to confound while they entertain. Chris Garcia All in All dir. Torbjørn Skårild Norway Apotheosis dir. Janet Wondra USA Back dir. Sam Toy Australia Elegy dir. Jeffrey Travis USA Fast Film dir. Virgil Widrich Austria Kerst dir. Andrew Awes USA Parallel Passage dir. Mandi Riggi USA Pol Pot’s Birthday dir. Talmage Cooley USA Tackle Box dir. Matthew Mebane USA The Three of Us dirs. Nirvan Mullick, Benjamin Goldman USA What About the Bodies? dir. Simon Ellis United Kingdom MAVERICK COMPETITION MAVERICK COMPETITION SHORTS PROGRAM 3: DOCU-NATION SHORT PROGRAM 4: TRANSITIONS 3/6, 12:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 12:00pm (REP) 104min 3/9, 7:00pm (UT-SJSU) 3/10, 5:00PM (C3) 108min After a two-year hiatus, Docu-Nation returns, populated by tales of life, love, lips and Louisiana. Phillip José Farmer once said, "Moving from here to there is travel, but moving from now towards the future is transition." This year, Cinequest is proud to present a program that proves his point. Through views of our world, we are treated to grand dissertations on the meaning of the activities around us: from the deadly serious to the sadly true, from the powerfully moving to the truly hilarious. This year features the sights and sounds of Boston nightlife, the joy of collectors and their trophies, a study of the female kiss and shorts on tasty and mysterious animals. A look at the world post-9/11 mingles with the significance of Zapotec ceremony. Filmmakers from Canada, Mexico and across the United States give us the world through their eyes, including two excellent documentaries from students at Stanford University. Combining comedy, experimentation, political thought and music, Docu-Nation will enlighten, entertain and enrage, all at the same time. Chris Garcia The Beautiful & the Fine dirs. Adrienne Leverette, Eric Schopmeyer, Rob Tyler Body Politics dir. Sally Rubin Danzante dir. Sergio Bátiz Good Stuff dir. Matthew Nie Kiss & Tell dir. Michaline Babich Landsdowne Street dir. Luigi Scarcelli Nutria dir. Ted Gesing Old Glory dir. Andy Schocken The World as We Know It dirs. John Haptas, Kristine Samuelson MAVERICK COMPETITION USA USA Mexico Canada USA USA USA USA USA Showing the changes through passing up and moving on, Transitions is all about that which we find and that which we leave behind. There are arrivals in new lands, both by poor Albanian immigrants and by an eloquent African potentate. The heartbreak that comes from leaving one you love behind is explored through the relationship of two young British kids who can’t decide whether or not to work it out. Aliens travel through space in a time of war, and a couple of good ol’ boys drive the roads to a new day. All that and a look at the shots we most likely ignored from 70s’ cop shows. From Germany, Italy, the United Kingdom and the United States, Transitions shows that we are all moving between things we will someday leave behind. Chris Garcia 121 to Aztec dir. David Eckenrode The Day Winston Ngakambe Came to Kiel dir. Jasper Ahrens Exit 8A dir. Margaret Harris Love Me or Leave Me Alone dir. Duane Hopkins Maree dir. James Pellerito Terra dir. Aristomenis Tsirbas Transitions dir. Kai Zimmer USA Germany USA United Kingdom Italy, USA USA Germany MAVERICK COMPETITION tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 52|CINEQUEST SHORTS PROGRAM 5: EXTREME SHORTS 3/8, 7:45pm (C3) 3/11, 9:45PM (C3) 108min Love, hate, betrayal, humiliation, rejection — extreme emotions — are displayed in provocative, profound and sometimes humorous ways in this powerful series of eight international shorts. From the wrenching betrayal of love in Eden’s Wake to the raunchy, John Wateresque humor of Prom Night and the visually stunning and mysterious Inamorata, each and every film in this program will provoke a strong visceral emotional response from its audiences. Other extreme emotions explored in this fine collection include humiliation on the Paris subway, a father’s desperation for contact with his daughter, a dying woman’s rejection and a mother’s angst about whether or not to leave her family. Pam Kelly Bid ‘em In dir. Neal Sopata Eden’s Wake dir. Sarah Michelle Brown I Am Stamos dir. Rob Meltzer I Used to be a Filmmaker dir. Jay Rosenblatt I’ll Wait for the Next One dir. Philippe Orreindy Inamorata dir. Robert A. Cuadra The Most Beautiful Man in the World dir. Alicia Duffy Prom Night dir. Robbie Pickering She Kept Silent dir. Svetlana Cvetko The Voice of Silence dir. Gunnar Bergdahl USA Canada USA USA France USA United Kingdom USA USA Sweden SHORTS PROGRAM 6: ANYTHING-BUT-ORDINARY 3/7, 2:15pm (C3) 3/9, 9:30pm (UT-SJSU) 110min In a complex collection that denies traditional categorization, eleven films aim to create an exceptional cinematic arena. They range from an eerie, mystical animated tale to the story of a frustrated mother waiting for her biopsy results. We are awed by the poetic lyricism of school children re-telling the history of statues represented in downtown Brussels, and we are touched by the gentle comedy of men and women reversing their nature. A schoolboy plays out his daily routine in an anything-but-ordinary manner, and a lonely bathroom attendant finds fame and fortune but discovers that it is still lonely at the top without someone to love. These entries from Australia, Belgium, Canada, Germany and the United States hold something unique: each tale is a thrilling journey of discovery. Jennifer Glynn Bludren dir. Jill Johnston-Price The Crux dir. Jeffrey Seckendorf Dream a Little Dream for Me dir. Ned Farr Elevations dir. Zarah Laszlo Excursion dir. Cris Jones If You Step on a Crack dir. Jennifer Atkins Little Figures dir. Sarah Vanagt Rent-a-Person dir. Kurt Kuenne The Schoolboy dir. Edina Kontsek Thomas Grey’s Rainy Day dir. Justin L. Smith Yin Yang dir. Adele Uddo USA USA USA Canada Australia USA Belgium USA Germany USA USA MAVERICK COMPETITION MAVERICK COMPETITION SHORTS PROGRAM 7: STUDENT SHORTS SHORTS PROGRAM 8: CORTOS DE MEXICO 7A – 3/6, 10:00am (C3) 3/8, 5:00pm (MD-SJSU) 7B – 3/7, 9:15pm (C3) 3/10, 9:30pm (UT-SJSU) 3/7, 10:15am (C3) 3/8, 5:00pm (C1) 3/11, 11:00am (UT-SJSU) 70min From mullet-wearing, air-guitar gangs to a Palestinian suicide bomber, this year’s Student Shorts program covers a wide range of human experience. Whimsical stories like a lonely man trying to appear in as many photos as possible and a woman using balloons to send letters are balanced by tragic accounts of lynching, brothers separated in Vietnam and a homeless man in San Francisco’s Tenderloin. Everyday characters like an old barber trying not to lose his only customer are followed by a disembodied cartoon head and a modern day Prometheus, who is executed every day of his life. Cinequest is proud to present Cortos de Mexico, a Spanish-language shorts program that showcases the breadth of talent from Mexico. Even more varied than the stories themselves are the approaches each filmmaker takes in telling them. What binds the tales is a refusal to rehash the past — whether they’re striving for social change, or just finding a new way to make people laugh. Jason Martin Program 7A – 108 minutes Behind Blue Eyes (De Anza) Dandelion (Rhode Island School of Design) Fisherman’s Troubled Odyssey (SJSU) Haircut (Loyola Marymount) A Hollywood Story (De Anza) Letters (Vancouver) The Lost Art (Chapman) The Promethean (BYU) The Show (NYU) Springtime Dreams (SJSU) STUDENT COMPETITION www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST Program 7B – 109 minutes A Thousand Words (Stanford) The Anniversary (UCLA) Apartment 427 (UCLA) Colorforms (NYU) Head (Chapman) The Martyr (Chapman) Parallel/Parallel (SJSU) Photo (USC) Plastic Eyes and Fuzzy Voice (SJSU) Spin (USC) The program’s variety of moods is evident in the blend of irony and suspense of the compact thriller, Contratiempo, or in El Pez Dorado, a seriocomic web of human relationships spun with dexterity worthy of Robert Altman. Moving from the urban thrills of Ligerita and the surreal humor of El Excusado to the sweet child’s viewpoint of E Puir Si Muove and the complex narrative of Sus Demonios, these shorts offer constant amazement. Cortos de Mexico is also remarkable for its startling style, never more evident than in the computer-generated Volarte, a virtuoso marvel of beauty and movement as well as insight into a culture’s art. Fernando F. Croce Contratiempo dir. Mauricio Bidault El Pez Dorado dir. Patricia Arriaga Ligerita dir. Mariana Rodriguez La Cumbre dir. Jorge Fons El Excusado dir. Lorenza Manrique E Puir Si Muove dir. Agustin Calderon Brusco Despertar dir. Ernesto Godoy Sus Demonios dir. Rene U. Villarreal Volarte dirs. Carlos Colorado, Enrique Ramirez GLOBAL LANDSCAPES LATINO FILM CELEBRATION CINEQUEST |53 SHORTS PROGRAM 9: SAN JOSE SHORTS 3/14, 9:30am (MD-SJSU) 90min Three shorts from three San Jose filmmakers; projects that tend to share personnel, locations and maybe equipment. These three short films cover gritty survival and redemption themes, quiet slice-of-life set pieces and mom’s creepy, new boyfriend. Local actor Tim Halpin takes the lead in The Greatest Challenge, playing a homeless boxer who refuses to help himself. In Doyle, he is the titular boyfriend, a shifty security guard who charms his way into the life of a woman and her teenaged daughter. Peter Carter’s Local Time follows a day in the life of a San Jose ‘cowboy,’ one who needs to drop a quarter into his horse for a ride. Appropriately titled, the film’s static shots and long takes offer us a flip side to the hectic pace of life in this tech-bound, go-go valley. Bill Maxey Doyle dir. Seirgan Benjamin The Greatest Challenge dir. Shawn Flanagan Local Time dir. Peter Carter tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 54|CINEQUEST Caution: Ideas moving at 24 frames per second The Mercury News is a proud sponsor of Cinequest DXD. Call 1.800.870.N EWS to subscr ibe White Knuckle Entertainment is the Bay Area's premier motion picture company. It is our vision to create independent movies that move the viewers and create increased awareness to the Bay Area Film scene. It is our goal to create ground-breaking and imaginative films that will interest audiences worldwide. Our 2004 releases include Wolf Pack Action/Horror film to be released in winter 2004 Positions still available for cast and crew. Send resume, head shot and demo to [email protected] More information on the movie go to "Terror at 200 feet" www.wolfpackmovie.com Monsters on Ice "Making of GYRO's 3D Fear Factory" To be released in Spring 2004 www.3dfearfactory.com For more information and online applications go to www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST |55 INVEST IN INSPIRATION ■ Support the world’s most influential art form ■ Enjoy year-round benefits and exclusive events ■ Get an inside look into the magic of film and film festivals ■ Join our Cinequest Community Basic Members — $50 You Will Receive: • Membership Card • Access to quarterly Inside Cinequest events • Exclusive Members Only screening at Cinequest (director’s choice film) • Free admission to one CineSingles event • Pride of ownership, and belonging to a great group of cinema lovers • Appropriate 501(c)3 tax write-off benefits The following levels include all Maverick Members amenities plus those listed under each title: Maverick Members — $100 You Will Receive: • All Basic Members amenities PLUS: • Members only T-Shirt • One ticket to a designated Maverick Spirit Event • Recognition on the Membership page of the Cinequest Web Site Producers — $1500 • One Platinum VIP Festival Pass • Board Escorted Exclusive VIP Reception for visiting Maverick Spirit star • Exclusive Dinner & Behind the Scenes Tour of Cinequest ■ Meet and mingle with movie lovers Sign up now and join us for this year’s events exclusively for Cinequest MEMBERS: Feb 2004 – Hot Picks for the Upcoming Festival Preview films in Cinequest 14 hosted by Cinequest Executive Director, Halfdan Hussey. Actors — $300 • One Gold VIP Festival Pass Writers — $500 • Two Gold VIP Festival Passes Directors — $1000 • Two Gold VIP Festival Passes • Exclusive Dinner & Behind the Scenes Tour of Cinequest Executive Producers — $2500 • Two Platinum VIP Festival Passes • Board Escorted Exclusive VIP Reception for visiting Maverick Spirit star • Exclusive Dinner & Behind the Scenes Tour of Cinequest Maverick Moguls — $5000 • Four Platinum VIP Festival Passes • Exclusive Dinner & Behind the Scenes Tour of Cinequest • Board Escorted Exclusive VIP Reception for visiting Maverick Spirit star Mar 2004 – Members Only Screening (During Cinequest 14) Attend an exclusive Members Only Screening and meet the filmmakers. May 2004 – Visual Components of Filmmaking Discuss with experts in the visual fields of filmmaking their roles and that of their collaborators’. Sept 2004 – Selecting a Festival Film Learn about and participate in the process of selecting films for Cinequest. Nov 2004 – Sound and Composition in Filmmaking Discuss with experts in these fields of filmmaking their roles and that of their collaborators’. JOIN C L I C K : W W W. C I N E Q U E S T. O R G • C A L L : 4 0 8 . 2 9 5 . F E S T • V I S I T: A N Y C I N E Q U E S T V E N U E D U R I N G T H E F E S T I VA L Cinequest: 6 Venues in 4 Blocks. Camera One Cinema (C1) P SAN FERNANDO ST. P F OURT H ST. T HIRD ST. S E COND ST. FIRST ST. PLAZA DE CESAR CHAVEZ 366 South First Street SAN FERNANDO ST. MARTIN LUTHER KING LIBRARY SJ REP THEATER UNIVERSITY THEATER HAL TODD THEATER Camera 3 Cinemas (C3) South Second Street & San Carlos San Jose Repertory Theatre (REP) 101 Paseo de San Antonio MORRIS DAILEY AUDITORIUM San Jose State University Theater (UT-SJSU) Corner of Fifth Street and San Fernando Street San Jose State University Hal Todd Theater (HT-SJSU) P CAMERA 3 SAN CARLOS ST. SO F A DISTRICT CAMERA ONE RK ET ST. FIRST ST. MA ACH SAN JOSE STATE UNIVERSITY CAMPUS SAN SALVADOR ST. Adjacent to the University Theater San Jose State University Morris Dailey Auditorium (MD-SJSU) Centrally located on the San Jose State University Campus P PARKING LOT tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 56|CINEQUEST CINEQUEST FESTIVAL MAP DINERS CIRCLE RESTAURANTS, HOT SPOTS, HOTELS, SAN JOSE DOWNTOWN & VENUES D I N E R S C I R C L E R E S TA U R A N T S 288 S. 2nd St. [next door to Camera 3] Downtown San Jose 408.998.0932 www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST CINEQUEST DINERS CIRCLE RESTAURANTS HOT SPOTS HOTELS 1. A.P. Stump’s 8. The Grill on the Alley 12. Back Bar 17. O’Flaherty’s Irish Pub 163 West Santa Clara Street 408.292.9928 www.apstumps.com A.P. Stump’s new American Cuisine. San Jose’s premier downtown dining establishment. 172 South Market Street 408.294.2244 www.thegrill.com Reminiscent of the classic American grills of the ‘20’s, The Grill on the Alley holds distinction by serving sensational cuisine with an exceptional wine selection from around the world. Our professional staff provides an exceptional dining experience like no other in downtown San Jose. 417 South First Street 408.971.6647 www.back-bar.com Back Bar is a one of a kind 6,000 sq. foot nightclub with a massive outdoor dance floor, VIP lounge, cigar and margarita bar. With DJ and live music, Back Bar is the hottest nightspot in the Bay Area. Located right next to Zoë nightclub, these 2 clubs combine to be the largest club in San Jose. Delicious fare is catered by Agenda. 25 North San Pedro Street 408.947.8007 www.oflahertysirishpub.com O’Flaherty’s Pub is San Jose’s newest Irish pub. Hand crafted in Ireland with Authentic Irish Mahogany and bric-a-brac, this is a sight to be seen! You are guaranteed a hundred thousand Irish welcomes. “You’re a stranger but once at O’Flaherty’s.” 2. Arcadia 301 South Market Street 408.278.4555 www.sanjosemarriot.com Chef of the Year Michael Mina has created a dining experience of sophistication and surprise in downtown San Jose. Come see (and taste) why the food critics are raving about Arcadia. 9. Hawgs Seafood Bar 150 South Second Street 408.287.9955 www.hawgsseafood.com Hawgs Seafood Bar serves up generous portions of the freshest continental seafood dishes in a fun, lively, and friendly atmosphere. From fresh oysters, clams, and mussels, to Hawgs’ award winning Newhattan clam chowder, you can’t go wrong with any of Hawgs’ numerous selections! Hawgs Seafood Bar is one of the best values around and is conveniently located on Second Street next to the San Jose Repertory Theatre. 13. Blue Tattoo Hobee’s 14. GoodFellas 288 South Second Street 408.998.0932 www.cameracinemas.com You’re in for a treat! Sandwiches, soup, and coffee are just part of the menu. And check out those sandwich names! 1875 South Bascom Avenue Campbell, CA 95008 408.369.0575 www.hobees.com Hobee’s California Restaurants have been an award-winning Bay Area favorite since 1974. The restaurants feature fresh, healthful fare in a warm, casual setting. Hobee’s has 8 convenient Silicon Valley locations and serves breakfast and lunch at all sites; dinner is available at select restaurants. Stop in to Hobee’s and see why we’re fast, fresh and friendly! 69 North San Pedro Street 408.287.6969 GoodFellas is an American grill that features pastas, sandwiches, steak, and salads. Our menu is served from 11am until one hour before we closed. Catch all sports events on our 8 TVs and enjoy “Pint Night” on Wednesdays. See you there! 5. Chacho’s 10. Il Fornaio 18 South Almaden Avenue 408.293.1387 www.chachos.net Since its establishment in 1995, Chacho’s has fast become known for its outstanding cuisine - unique for its combination of homestyle taste with a turn-of-the-century rustic flair. Chacho’s sauces and entrees are made only from the freshest ingredients, including moles and spices, flown direct from Toluca, Mexico. Equally delicious are the freshly prepared margaritas and drink selections from the bar. 302 South Market Street 408.271.3366 www.ilfornaio.com Il Fornaio in Downtown San Jose is located in the beautiful Hyatt Sainte Claire. The restaurant and bakery opens at 7:00am and stays open all day. Il Fornaio features a menu highlighting hearth-baked breads made from scratch, fresh ingredients, authentic Italian cooking methods, and wines from Italy. Private dining rooms are available and special events can be booked through an on-site Event Coordinator. Please call ahead for reservations. 3. Blake’s Steakhouse and Bar 17 North San Pedro Street 408.298.9221 www.blakessteakhouse.com Blake’s is known for great food and excellent service in a comfortable dining room. Cocktails and a wide variety of fine wines are served at the bar and in the restaurant. In addition to San Jose’s best steaks, Blake’s serves a variety of fresh fish, chicken, and pasta. Open for lunch Monday through Friday. 4. Camera Café 6. The City Bar & Grill 300 Almaden Boulevard 408.947.4444 The diverse menu offers a wide variety of mouthwatering selections of hot and cold dishes including grilled meats, seafood and pasta dishes, and an array of fresh fruit and vegetable salads. Indulge in their award winning Sunday brunch 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. 7. Eulipia 374 South First Street 408.280.6161 www.eulipia.com Eulipia is the place to go in downtown SJ for a great meal, a quiet appetizer, or a drink. Our beautiful menu offers a huge selection of delicious salads, fresh fish, meat, poultry, and pasta-all at a very reasonable price. Full bar. Friendly service. Great wine list. 11. La Pastaia 233 West Santa Clara Street 408.286.8686 www.lapastaia.com Executive Chef Forrest Gingold’s travels to Italy for authentic Italian recipes have earned the upscale, comfortable eatery its four stars from the San Jose Mercury News. The establishment’s unwavering obsession with excellence has placed La Pastaia as a mainstay in the competitive Silicon Valley. Willow Street Wood Fired Pizza 20 South Santa Cruz Avenue Los Gatos, CA 95030 408.354.5566 www.willowstreet.com The South Bay’s legendary wood-fired pizza restaurant. Specialty salads, unique pastas, daily specials. Serving Willow Street’s own microbrewed beer. Terrific wine list. 170 West St. John Street 408.286.1515 www.bluetattoosj.com The Blue Tattoo, situated in the heart of San Pedro Square, contains multiple dance floors, classic elegance, and irresistibly comfortable décor. The organic trees and large patio makes the terrace one of the best in the bay, and the ideal place to unwind. The Blue Tattoo’s stunning position and classy international crowd make it the most glamorous venue in San Jose, if not the Bay Area. Island Grill & Bamboo Lounge 1355 North Fourth Street 408.392.2468 www.theislandgrill.com Colorful, Creative Cuisine with an emphasis on steak, pork, and seafood blending elements of the Pacific Rim, Caribbean, and Hawaiian regions. Bamboo Lounge provides live entertainment and tropical mixed drinks. Open for lunch & dinner daily - closed Sunday nights. 15. Johnny V’s 31 East Santa Clara Street 408.947.8470 www.johnnyvsbar.com At Johnny V’s, we believe in letting the good times roll. Our first priority is to deliver topnotch entertainment and a great venue to our customers- good people, from all walks of life that like to have a great time. We attract and maintain a quality clientele by providing an exceptional venue, service-oriented staff, and most importantly, a great vibe. 16. Mission Ale House 97 East Santa Clara Street 408.292.4058 www.missionalehouse.com Located in Downtown San Jose, the Mission Ale House is just blocks from both San Jose Arena and San Jose State University. The Mission has the charm of a traditional Ale House Pub with its 40-foot mahogany back bar, 18-foot high ceilings, and its newly added patio beer garden. The Mission has 32 beers on draft, a large selection of spirits and cigars, and serves food daily. |57 6. Hilton San Jose and Towers, The Official Filmmaker Residence 300 Almaden Boulevard 408.287.2100 11. Hotel De Anza 233 West Santa Clara Street 888.254.0637 18. San Jose Bar & Grill 10. Hyatt Sainte Claire 85 South Second Street 408.286.2397 www.sanjosebarandgrill.com San Jose Bar & Grill is San Jose’s most talked about nightspot. The food is great and the atmosphere is even better. So come on down and see what all the fuss is about! 302 South Market Street 408.885.1234 Park Plaza 1355 North Fourth Street 408.453.5340 Pruneyard Inn 19. South First Billiards 420 South First Street 408.294.7800 www.sofapool.com Voted San Jose’s “Best Place to Play Pool,” South First Billiards features 29 regulation pool tables, a full bar with 15 beers on tap, and a casual restaurant in an upscale atmosphere. Be sure to check out the hot, new elixir lounge. Open daily 4:00pm - 2:00am. 21 and over only. 20. Stratta Grill Café 71 East San Fernando Street 408.293.1121 www.stratta.com This upbeat bistro packs style and culinary punch into a renovated dining space. The sensuous menu involves lots of hearty grill updates, lusty pastas, and assertive salads. Casual. Full bar. 21. Tres Gringos Baja Cantina 1995 South Bascom Avenue Campbell, CA 95008 800.559.4344 23. Ramada Limited 455 South Second Street 408.298.3500 2. San Jose Marriott 301 South Market Street 408.280.1300 8. The Fairmont 170 South Market Street 408.998.1900 VENUES 24. Camera One Cinema (C1) 366 South First Street 83 South Second Street 408.278.9888 www.tresgringossj.com Tres Gringos Baja Cantina is the newest hot spot in the “heart of the city,” featuring El Guapo’s world famous local fish tacos. So come on down and dance on California’s longest bar, or enjoy one of our blended specialty drinks. Bringing you the beach 365 days a year! 22. VooDoo Lounge 14 South Second Street 408.286.8636 www.voodooloungesj.com The VooDoo Lounge is the hottest nightclub in downtown San Jose! Once inside you’ll find a bi-level dance floor and three full bars. It offers DJ dancing Thursday through Saturday with resident DJs RATED “R” and, from Las Vegas, Frankie Morales. They play your favorite HIP HOP, R&B, and HOUSE dance hits. The party starts at 10pm! 4. Camera 3 Cinemas (C3) South Second Street & San Carlos 25. Cinequest Hospitality Lounge at The San Jose Repertory Theatre 101 Paseo de San Antonio 25. San Jose Repertory Theatre (REP) 101 Paseo de San Antonio 26. San Jose State University Theater (UT-SJSU) Corner of Fifth Street and San Fernando Street 27. San Jose State University Hal Todd Theater (HT-SJSU) Adjacent to the University Theater 28. San Jose State University Morris Dailey Auditorium (MD-SJSU) Centrally located on the San Jose State University Campus HOT SPOTS BACK BAR tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 58|CINEQUEST IS Honorary Board Staff Programming Technical Direction Writers ($500) Peter Belsito Sheila Benson Elmer Bernstein Christopher Coppola Cassian Elwes Stuart English Leah Hanes Robert Hawk Tom McEnery Roger Nygard Lupe Ontiveros Michael Radford Nick Redman Paul Seydor Bryan Singer Laurence Thorpe Barbara Turner Luis Valdez Robert Wise Vilmos Zsigmond Halfdan Hussey, Executive Director & Founder Mike Rabehl, Associate Director; Director of Programming Bill Maxey, Director of Short Film Program Charlie Cockey, European Film Programmer Chris Garcia Jennifer Glynn Christine Holmes Rodger Hughes Pam Kelly Jennifer Marcoux Jason Martin Meredith Sherter Ed Soohoo Sandy Wolf Nathan Zanon Brian Goffee, DXD Coordinator Leah Marks, DXD Coordinator Gary Parzygnot Gary Simpson Dennis Skaggs Virginia Belsheim Barbara Branaman Peggy DePascal Martin & Barbara Fishman Douglas W. Hansen Kyra & Hal Hubis Andy Kellock David & Theresa Mathiasmeier Sean O’Hara Mike Roney Jack Schiffhauer JoMar Laboratories Lori Schroeder Jim & Raylene Steffenson Virginia Sturdevant Michael Weston Jenny Wirtschafter Suzanne Wittrig & Alfonso Banuelos Jr. Board of Directors Catherine Kreutzer, Director of Marketing Diane Bracken David Burgess Eric Cherng Stu English Arminder Randhawa Kristi Rhinehart Development Alison Williams Film Traffic Rachel Herz Graphic Design Rick Tharp Randy West Hospitality Krista Fazio, Director of Hospitality Melissa Cobb Jennilee Gomez Mary O’Brien Marketing Kathleen J. Powell, President, Founder and Interim Chair Halfdan Hussey, Executive Director & Founder Jay Adelson Ramune Ambrozaitis Mark Bunzel Sanjay Dani Jean-Louis Gassee Marshall Goodman Mike Hackett Mike Homer Kevin Lee Carlos Montalvo Laura Phelps Carlo Severo Rick Singer Christine Storey Betty Taylor Kari Wolff Lewis N. Wolff www.cinequest.org Membership Sherry Siegrist Operations Stephanie Luciani, Director of Operations Cidney Falk Jess Main, Volunteer Coordinator Adrianne Anderson, YouthQuest Coordinator tix 408.295.FEST Programming Interns Adrianne Anderson Juan Escobar Paige Ngo Program Guide Judie Gordon, Editor Fernando Croce Chris Garcia Jennifer Glynn Mike Gutman Ben Hess John Ignowski Robert Mello Jason Martin Marie-Anne Widrig, Metro Production Director Jon Wolles, Metro Promotions & Event Manager Terri Groat-Elner, Metro Production Artist Sandy Wolf Public Relations Jens Hussey, Director of Public Relations Irina Blekh Leslie Fehr Laura Fitler Sam Guzman Stacy Quan Katie Walsh Theater Management Carolyn Silberman Rick Silberman Ticketing and Information Technology Lou Bash, Manager of Ticketing and Information Services Melanie Fosty Website Lou Bash Sanjing Bai Melanie Chavez Ron Craig Rodger Hughes James Lin Chris Myers Robert Putnam Tom Vincze Glenda Yang Executive Producers ($2500) Cucuzza Family Partnership Heritage Bank of Commerce Producers ($1500) Nancy D’Attilio Martin Fox Directors ($1000) Dale Fanetti Kent & Rita Norton Stephen Schleimer Annette Mello & Marcus Jager Actors ($300) Ian Davidson Larry D. Douglas Daniel Greenbank Diana Grippo Arthur N. Hicks II David W. Lang Terri Lehan Deborah Lennon MTW Associates Barrie Novak Cecilia M. Quick Perry Samuels Sandra Sobie Suzanne Steimle Dr. Marvin Sommer Marilyn E. Taghon Genevieve Torresola Paul von Stamwitz Jason Wiener Geoff Badger & Karen Gaydon J. Philip & Jennifer DiNapoli Foundation CINEQUEST |59 cineswitch II It’s on the streets – the AG-DVX100A, the dramatically-improved successor to Panasonic’s revolutionary, progressive-scan camera. Now with over 20 new features, including improved color reproduction, additional cine-like gamma settings, slower shutter speeds, squeeze mode for 16:9 recording, and much more. And still the only Mini-DV camera with CineSwitch™ technology for 480i/60, 480p/24fps and 480p/30fps image capture. Finally, a sequel that’s better than the original. Visit panasonic.com/dvcinema or call 1-800-528-8601 to learn more. AG-DVX100A is supported by your favorite 24P native non-linear editing solutions. © 2004 Panasonic Broadcast tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 60|CINEQUEST C1 = Camera One C3 =Camera 3 REP = San Jose Repertory Theatre UT-SJSU = University Theater at SJSU MD-SJSU = Morris Dailey Auditorium at SJSU HT-SJSU = Hal Todd Theater at SJSU 5:15pm The Man Who Loved Haugesund (C3) 80’ North American Premiere - A brilliant entrepreneur and humanist in a sleepy town with a war raging across Europe. Great stories are timeless. Great people are inspirational. Sometimes, on a rare occasion, we are lucky enough to discover both. 7:00pm Down by Love (C1) 90’ The unraveling of a love affair and the emotional state of a yearning woman, who just might be on the verge of a nervous breakdown 7:15pm Shorts 1 – Comedy Favorites (REP) 110’ Going from hilarious fantasy to sexy office humor to referential chuckles, this year’s comedies are more outrageous, more gut-busting, and more daring than ever before. Additional Maverick Spirit Events to be determined. Please check back with Cinequest after February 14 for dates/times. 7:15pm The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam (C3) 94’ A tale full of adventure, myth, magic, romance, necromancy and near misses — and a celebration of the bygone era of vaudeville. WEDNSDAY MARCH 3 9:15pm When Ruoma Was Seventeen (C1) 88’ U. S. Premiere - A serene and perceptive study of how a young woman’s romantic awakening is complicated by her cultural roots. 7:30pm Opening Night Gala United (REP) 85’ NORTH AMERICAN PREMIERE An inspiring romantic comedy about becoming a hero when you’re the underdog — a time for football, dreams about love, rivalry and Western Norway at its best. 9:30pm Cala, My Dog! (C3) 100’ A philosophical tale reflecting the extraordinary struggle of an ordinary worker to reclaim his pet, his family...and himself. 9:45pm Shorts 2 - Mindbenders (REP) 112’ Every year, Cinequest scours the globe for films that can be appreciated only by the most twisted of film lovers. We call them Mindbenders. 7:00pm Double Dare (C3) 91’ Their jobs entail being set on fire, thrown off buildings, dragged by wild horses and hit by cars. They are stuntwomen, and they will “kick your ass.” 7:15pm Jagoda in the Supermarket (C1) 108’ Hi-jinks and romance begin when a man takes hostages at gunpoint in a supermarket. A hilariously fun Dog Day Afternoon in Serbia. 7:15pm Awful Normal (UT-SJSU) 89’ World Premiere - A film you will never forget. Two women confront the man who molested them as children and the repercussions it had on them all. 7:15pm “1” (REP) 99’ World Premiere - Welcome to De La Salle High, where it’s not about X’s and O’s…it’s about having faith in something larger than yourself — a look at the high school football team that hasn’t lost a single game in 12 years. 9:15pm Play (C3) 85’ North American Premiere - Reminiscent of such tales as The Big Chill, a group of aspiring young actors embark on one last weekend getaway before going out into the real world. It will turn out to be a weekend they never forget. 9:30pm Rewind (C1) 98’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm The Bread Maker (UT-SJSU) 82’ A woman’s romance novel begins to change when she meets the real love of her life in this fun romantic comedy from Newfoundland. 9:30pm IPO (REP) 100’ An evocative tragicomedy direct from San Francisco about the painful life in the “dot-bomb” world. THURSDAY FRIDAY MARCH 4 MARCH 5 11:15pm Shorts 2 – Mindbenders (C3) 112’ Repeat Screening 12:30pm Solid Air (C1) 118’ North American Premiere - Set in the twin worlds of high-stakes gambling and law, a psychological drama where a father and son’s love is tested. SATURDAY 1:00pm The Silence Between Two Thoughts (REP) 95’ A remarkable, austere and provocative film, painstakingly reconstructed by the director after the negative was confiscated by Iranian authorities, which follows a young woman who tries to understand her role in society. 2:45pm Rewind (C1) 98’ U. S. Premiere - A beguiling and romantic urban tale that, with patience and tenderness, finds magic and love in the smallest of details of life. 3:00pm Fine Dead Girls (C3) 77’ A smoldering, brooding lesbian love story that is proof positive that film noir is alive and well in the Balkans. 3:00pm August Sun (REP) 108’ Three journeys, actual and spiritual, of ordinary people whose lives are profoundly affected by the ongoing struggle of combatants who are unwilling or unable to agree upon a peaceful solution. 5:00pm Eila (C1) 94’ U. S. Premiere - Based on a true story, Eila, a timid cleaning lady, and her colleagues sue the state for an illegal discharge calling out for human dignity and respect for others. 2:45pm A Bus Came… (REP) 100’ U. S. Premiere - Love, guts, good and evil are delivered with quirky absurdity in the collective work of five directors, ten writers, five cinematographers, four editors, four composers, and a load of actors. 3:00pm When Ruoma Was Seventeen (C1) 88’ Repeat Screening 5:00 August Sun (C1) 108’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Cala, My Dog! (REP) 100’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Life Leaves Marks (REP) 105’ A sweeping, romantic triangle of love and sacrifice, from which three people will emerge with the scrapes and scars that show life leaves marks www.cinequest.org 2:45pm Mystery of the Trinidad (C3) 88’ Reconnecting the pieces of a life fragmented by unjust secrets and lost explorations, a man must find the balance between the love he wants and the passion he needs. 5:00pm The Man Who Loved Haugesund (C3) 80’ Repeat Screening 5:15pm The Silence Between Two Thoughts (UT-SJSU) 95’ Repeat Screening tix 408.295.FEST MARCH 6 10:00am Shorts 7A – Student Shorts (C3) 110’ From mullet-wearing, air-guitar gangs to a Palestinian suicide bomber, this year’s Student Shorts program covers a wide range. 10:00am Soldiers of the Rock (REP) 93’ U. S. Premiere - In the deep, dark bowels of the Earth, where danger lurks at every turn, a man searches for the answers he desperately needs. 12:00pm Shorts 3 – Docu-nation (UT-SJSU) 104’ Combining comedy, experimentation, political thought and music, Docu-Nation will enlighten, entertain and enrage all at the same time. 12:45pm The Magical Life of Long Tack Sam (C3) 94’ – Repeat Screening 2:15pm Rhapsody in White (C1) 86’ U.S. Premiere – A female puppeteer wages a war against the realities of life in a whimsical resurrection of the innocence of comedy and a bow to silent cinema. 2:30pm The Bread Maker (UT-SJSU) 82’ Repeat Screening 2:45pm Shorts 1 – Comedy Favorites (REP) 110’ – Repeat Screening 3:00pm The Boy Who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan (C3) 103’ The joys and innocence of childhood and the sheer determination it takes to face the brutal conditions of poverty and starvation, political uncertainty and the realities of refugee life in an inhospitable terrain. 4:15pm The Man Who Copied (C1) 124’ A visual feast that perfectly blends drama, comedy and romance to create an impressive, moving portrait of Brazil and its people. 4:45pm Play (UT-SJSU) 85’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Caballé Beyond Music (REP) 98’ U. S. Premiere - Immerse yourself in this sensational musical highlighting the career of one of the greatest divas of all time, Montserrat Caballé — a film that will enchant and move anyone who sees it. 5:30pm Double Dare (C3) 91’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm Down by Love (C1) 90’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm Aging Out (UT-SJSU) 105’ World Premiere - A moving portrait of three teens “aging out” of the foster care system — a tale of human resilience and an affirmation of dreams of independence and fulfillment. 7:15pm 30 Miles (REP) 93’ World Premiere - An act of kindness leads to the destruction of lives in just thirty miles, when a hitchhiker and his ride let down their guards and reveal intimate, dark secrets about their pasts. 7:30pm Spectres (C3) 97’ North American Premiere - A sciencefiction ghost story from Cupertino-raised director Phil Leirness featuring Marina Sirtis (Star Trek: The Next Generation) and Dean Haglund (The X-Files). 9:00pm Love Hurts (C1) 98’ Stunning visuals with a hip soundtrack bring this modern Romeo and Juliet to life—as star-crossed lovers traverse boundaries to be together in the chaos of Mexico City. 9:15pm Liberty: 3 Stories About Life & Death (UT-SJSU) 80’ A poignant-with-heart look at three women and their struggles with life and death. 9:30pm “1” (REP) 99’ Repeat Screening 12:00pm The Man Who Wipes Mirrors (REP) 117’ U. S. Premiere - If you are worried about growing older, take that curve in the road and realize that it is just another turning point in human life. 9:45pm Arakimentari (C3) 99’ The king of Japanese vaginas, flowers and faces. This is one you have to see for yourself and then make your own judgment. 12:15pm Destination Moscow (C1) 108’ North American Premiere - An amusing Norwegian tale about a troop of flawed Polish actors following a dream to perform in Moscow…presented in a Norwegian pig Latin. 12:00am The Last Horror Movie (C3) 80’ Max Parry is a mild mannered wedding photographer who leads a fairly dull life, except for one minor exception — he is a serial killer. Warning: Contains graphic violence. SUNDAY MARCH 7 10:15am Shorts 8 – Cortos de Mexico (C3) 70’ Funny, sexy, provocative and 100 percent entertaining, a concoction straight from Mexico that audiences will cherish. 11:45am Bedtime Fairy Tales for Crocodiles (C1) 97’ With a touch of magical realism to rival the work of Gabriel Garcia Marquez, the film weaves a mesmerizing web of dreams, fantasies and emotions around one man’s search for the truth behind his family’s past. 9:00pm Destination Moscow (C1) 108’ Repeat Screening 9:15pm Shorts 7B - Student Shorts (C3) 110’ From mullet-wearing air guitar gangs to a Palestinian suicide bomber, this year’s Student Shorts program covers a wide range of human experience. 9:15pm The Silence Between Two Thoughts (UT-SJSU) 95’ Repeat Screening 9:15pm Madness and Genius (REP) 103’ Shot in beautiful black and white HighDefinition, Madness and Genius is a provocative tale of science, philosophy, blackmail, isolation and hope. 12:00pm Caballé Beyond Music (C3) 98’ Repeat Screening MONDAY 12:00pm Shorts 3 – Docu-Nation (REP) 104’ Repeat Screening 1:00pm Liberty (UT-SJSU) 80’ MARCH 8 Repeat Screening 12:00pm Awful Normal (UT-SJSU) 89’ Repeat Screening 3:00pm The Man Who Copied (C3) 124’ Repeat Screening 2:00pm The Loss of Nameless Things (UT-SJSU) 110’ World Premiere - Palo Alto filmmaker Bill Rose reveals the evocative story of one man’s fall from grace, of artistic paradise lost and hard-won resurrection, and of an inspired artistic life. 3:00pm Play (UT-SJSU) 85’ Repeat Screening 2:00pm Fools (C1) 90’ North American Premiere - With humor and surprises, Fools journeys through the colorful, surreal and hectic throngs of the carnival to discover what it feels like to be truly alive. 2:15pm Shorts 6 - Anything-butOrdinary (C3) 110’ Each of these entries holds something unique: each tale is a thrilling journey of discovery. 2:30pm Liberty: 3 Stories About Life & Death (REP) 80’ Repeat Screening 4:30pm The Story of the Weeping Camel (C1) 105’ A wondrous, luminous film about a family of nomads and their journey to save the life of a baby camel rejected by its mother. A moving film that no one will ever forget. 4:30pm Spectres (UT-SJSU) 97’ Repeat Screening 4:45pm Jonny Vang (C3) 85’ Many people believe that life in small towns is less complicated than in the big city. But it’s not true. Life isn’t complicated — it’s complex — especially when you are being targeted over and over again. 5:00pm Shorts 8 - Cortos de Mexico (C1) 80’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Shorts 7A – Student Shorts (MD-SJSU) 110’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm The Loss of Nameless Things (UT-SJSU) 80’ Repeat Screening 5:30pm The Boy Who Plays on the Buddhas of Bamiyan (C3) 103’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm Madrid (C1) 80’ North American Premiere - A gorgeous and elegant film that sensitively explores the meeting of two people of mixed cultures who are forced to draw up their own unique roadmap of life and love. 7:30pm Madness and Genius (MD-SJSU) 103’ Repeat Screening 7:30pm Shelter (UT-SJSU) 80’ Set in Brooklyn’s Bedford Stuyvesant, urban squalor mixes with magical beauty for a breathtaking original story of the power of friendship and love in the face of hardship. 4:45pm 30 Miles (REP) 93’ Repeat Screening 7:45pm Shorts 5 – Extreme Shorts (C3) 108’ Love, hate, betrayal, humiliation, rejection — extreme emotions — are displayed in provocative, profound and sometimes humorous ways in this powerful series of eight international shorts. 6:45pm A Bus Came… (C1) 100’ Repeat Screening 9:00pm Eila (C1) 94’ Repeat Screening 6:45pm Aging Out (UT-SJSU) 105’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm IPO (UT-SJSU) 100’ Repeat Screening 6:45pm Buddy (C3) 104’ Winner of numerous festival audience awards around the world, a heartwarming romantic comedy about friendship, love and fame that reminds us that it is always important to be honest and true to yourself. 9:45pm Graveyard Alive (MD-SJSU) 81’ A stylish zombie love story with a dry sense of humor that brilliantly evokes German Expressionist horror movies. It’s an exceptional addition to the zombie tradition that’s unique and fun. 7:00pm Big Enough (REP) 87’ World Premiere - Poignant and brimming with humor, intelligence and humanity: a film about life through the eyes of little people. 10:00pm Life Leaves Marks (C3) 105’ Repeat Screening CINEQUEST TUESDAY MARCH 9 12:00pm The Man Who Copied (UT-SJSU) 124’ Repeat Screening 2:30pm The Man Who Wipes Mirrors (UT-SJSU) 117’ Repeat Screening 3:00pm August Sun (C3) 108’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Bedtime Fairy Tales for Crocodiles (C1) 97’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm The Las Zapatistas (UT-SJSU) 70’ Living history from the men who rode with Zapata during the Mexican revolution. A captivating illustration of a world where courage reigned. 5:15pm Jonny Vang (C3) 85’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm The Agronomist (C1) 90’ An intoxicating look at an influential and fascinating individual provides the backbone for a tumultuous 30-year history of Haiti’s struggles and a film that is troubling and eye-opening. 7:00pm Shorts 4 – Transitions (UT-SJSU) 108’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm The Praying Mantis (UT-SJSU) 111’ North American Premiere - A mythic tale of seduction, femininity and fantasy that blends the ordinary with the extraordinary for an engaging exploration of the connection between eroticism and self-sacrifice. 7:15pm Vote For Me! (MD-SJSU) 78’ Hilarious, autobiographical look at a 70year-old Puerto Rican building super, from East Harlem’s campaign against a dimwitted party hack and a racial opportunist for US Congress. 7:30pm Rhapsody in White (C3) 86’ Repeat Screening 9:00pm Jagoda in the Supermarket (C1) 92’ – Repeat Screening 9:15pm Shelter (MD-SJSU) 80’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm The Last Horror Movie (C3) 80’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm Shorts 7B – Student Shorts Program (UT-SJSU) 110’ Repeat Screening THURSDAY MARCH 11 11:00am Shorts 8 – Cortos de Mexico (UT-SJSU) 70’ Repeat Screening 1:00pm When Ruoma Was Seventeen (UT-SJSU) 88’ Repeat Screening 9:00pm MAVERICK SPIRIT EVENT AN EVENING W/ KURT MILLER: EXTREME MAVERICK (MD-SJSU) An evening of excitement and the most dynamic sports footage ever filmed, as Kurt Miller reveals the secrets to the success of Miller Films - founded by his father Warren Miller - and offers a spectacular view of the films and the people behind them. 9:15pm The Praying Mantis (UT-SJSU) 111’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm The Agronomist (C1) 90’ Repeat Screening 9:45pm Shorts 5 – Extreme Shorts (C3) 108’ Repeat Screening FRIDAY MARCH 12 9:30am MOVIE MAKING FORUM I DAY OF THE WRITER (MD-SJSU) 60’ Part I: Scriptwriting 101 – The Nuts and Bolts of Story Development 11:00am MOVIE MAKING FORUM I DAY OF THE WRITER (MD-SJSU) 60’ Part II: From Script to Screen – Ensuring Your Movie Gets Made 3:30pm The Last Zapatistas (C3) 70’ Repeat Screening 4:45pm Vote For Me! (MD-SJSU) 78’ Repeat Screening 2:30pm Aging Out (C3) 105’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm The NightOwls of Coventry (UT-SJSU) 75’ Repeat Screening 2:30pm The Man Who Wipes Mirrors (UT-SJSU) 117’ – Repeat Screening 9:30pm Madrid (C3) 80’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Kill Me Tender (C3) 98’ Hilarious Spanish comedy about a baker, a dominatrix and a deadbeat, debt-collecting rabbit. WEDNESDAY 1:00pm Fine Dead Girls (UT-SJSU) 77’ Repeat Screening 6:45pm Delivery Method (MD-SJSU) 100’ World Premiere - An unlikely love story of two down-and-out souls trying to find themselves, first as friends, then partners and finally lovers; two fractured lives will be changed forever. 2:45pm A Bus Came… (UT-SJSU) 100’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm Solid Air (C3) 118’ Repeat Screening 4:30pm Love Hurts (C1) 105’ Repeat Screening 7:15pm DXD I: DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM - NEW-SCHOOL DELIVERY AND DISTRIBUTION (UT-SJSU) 90’ Maverick minds discuss that the real alternative to distribution Hollywood style is finally with us. MARCH 10 5:00pm Shorts 4 – Transitions (C3) 108’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Soldiers of the Rock (UT-SJSU) 93’ Repeat Screening 6:45pm Buddy (C1) 104’ Repeat Screening 7:30pm Sunday on the Rocks (C1) 75’ World Premiere - Four women, a Sunday morning and one big bottle of scotch. The directorial debut from veteran maverick actor Joe Morton. 9:15pm Quality of Life (MD-SJSU) 85’ North American Premiere - Both moving and universal, an incredible story of San Francisco graffiti artists trying to capture the respect of a society that doesn’t want them. 11:30pm Graveyard Alive (C3) 81’ Repeat Screening 9:00pm The Story of the Weeping Camel (C1) 105’ Repeat Screening 5:15pm Turn Right by the Yellow Dog (C1) 100’ North American Premiere - Affectionate and heartwarming comedy about the sorrows of family, as a man “adopts” his dead father’s friend as a surrogate dad. 9:15pm Security (C3) 95’ Hilarity ensues when the “prototypical chocolate” is stolen during two inept guards’ watch, and nothing — we mean nothing — can stop them from solving this most heinous of crimes. 12:45pm Fine Dead Girls (UT-SJSU) 77’ Repeat Screening 3:00pm Soldiers of the Rock (UT-SJSU) 93’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm The NightOwls of Coventry (MD-SJSU) 75’ In the 70s you could get anything you want at Alice’s Restaurant, but at Marv’s you get whatever’s on the plate. A nostalgic comedy and delightful romp filled with wry humor, energetic characters and cleverly written dialogue. 9:15pm Turn Right by the Yellow Dog (C1) 100’ Repeat Screening 12:15pm Cala, My Dog! (C3) 100’ Repeat Screening 7:15pm Arakimentari (C3) 99’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm Shorts 6 – Anything-butOrdinary (UT-SJSU) 110’ Each of these entries holds something unique: each tale is a thrilling journey of discovery. 7:30pm One Man Show (UT-SJSU) 77’ World Premiere - Often absurd, and with outrageous and touching moments, a contemplation on the question many of us have asked ourselves: “What would I do if I won the lottery?” 9:30pm The Curse of Bloodhead (UTSJSU) 90’ U. S. Premiere - Two brothers born from the same parents. Oddly, Doug is white and Donnie, black. Yet, it is more than just the color of their skin that makes the two men drastically different. 2:00pm MAVERICK SPIRIT EVENT AN AFTERNOON WITH DAVID & JANET PEOPLES HEROES, MONKEYS AND THE UNFORGIVEN (MD-SJSU) 90’ An inspirational Maverick Spirit Award event centered on powerhouse screenwriting couple, David and Janet Peoples. 7:15pm Big Enough (MD-SJSU) 87’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm Dorian Blues (C3) 88’ World Premiere - A coming-out comedy dealing with missed opportunities and pent up anger for anyone who’s ever come apart while “coming of age.” SATURDAY 6:30pm Fado Blues (C1) 111’ World Premiere - The wacky, horny and mischievous Portuguese invade Rio on a quest to pull off the art-heist of the century…well, sort of. 7:00pm Ham and Cheese (MD-SJSU) 88’ Repeat Screening 7:15pm One Man Show (UT-SJSU) 77’ Repeat Screening 9:00pm Solid Air (C1) 118’ Repeat Screening 9:15pm Sad Spanish Song (MD-SJSU) 110’ World Premiere - Three people — a definitely unlikely trio — discover they have a lot more in common than they think in a comedy that asks if it is fate or our own idiosyncrasies and foibles that allow us to connect with the people for whom we truly care. 9:15pm Dorian Blues (UT-SJSU) 88’ Repeat Screening 9:30pm Miles Ahead (C3) 86’ World Premiere - An intimate and visually striking coming-of-age tale that finds beauty and excitement in the most deceptively quiet moments of life. 11:30pm The Curse of Bloodhead (C3) 90’ Repeat Screening 10:00am MOVIE MAKING FORUM II DAY OF DISTRIBUTION (HT-SJSU) 90’ Part I: Producing a Movie that Sells SUNDAY 12:00pm Slim Susie (C1) 96’ Repeat Screening 4:45pm The Mystery of the Trinidad (C1) 88’ Repeat Screening 12:30pm Imelda (UT SJSU) 103’ A fascinating and powerful in-depth look at the woman behind the shoes. 4:45pm Kill Me Tender (C3) 98’ Repeat Screening 12:45pm Being (C3) 80’ North American Premiere - Censored by the Soviets for nearly ten years, a film of uncompromising attitude and quality, relentlessly grim, insistently artistic, a true “lost Maverick.” 11:45am Imelda (C3) 103’ Repeat Screening 2:15pm Sunday on the Rocks (C1) 75’ Repeat Screening 12:00pm Fado Blues (C1) 111’ Repeat Screening 7:00pm Slim Susie (C1) 96’ North American Premiere - In the tradition of Trainspotting and Pulp Fiction, “a gangster comedy,” set in a rural Swedish town, with an assortment of original oddballs. 7:00pm Ham and Cheese (MD-SJSU) 88’ U. S. Premiere - Without an ounce of talent between the two of them, their only strength is persistence. Welcome to the world of struggling actors. Starring an array of Canadian comedians, such as Dave Foley and Scott Thompson from Kids in the Hall. 2:45pm Quality of Life (UT-SJSU) 85’ Repeat Screening 2:45pm Delivery Method (C3) 100’ Repeat Screening 4:15pm Turn Right by the Yellow Dog (C1) 100’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm DXD III: DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM - 48-HOUR MOVIE MAKING (UT-SJSU) 90’ High quality, fast and ultra-low budget filmmaking at its latest and greatest. 5:00pm Fools (C3) 90’ Repeat Screening 4:30pm Praying Mantis (C1) 111’ Repeat Screening 4:45pm Miles Ahead (UT-SJSU) 86’ Repeat Screening 6:30pm Closing Night Gala Cinequest Awards Ceremony and WORLD PREMIERE of The Conscientious Objector (MD-SJSU) 100’ You’d never believe this story if it wasn’t true: how one man refused to carry a gun yet was decorated with the Congressional Medal of Honor for his heroics in WWII. 9:30am Shorts 9 - San Jose Shorts (MD-SJSU) 90’ Four short films by San Jose filmmakers covering gritty survival and redemption themes, quiet slice-of-life set pieces, mom’s creepy, new boyfriend and a fresh documentary about Cinequest 14. 12:30pm MOVIE MAKING FORUM II DAY OF DISTRIBUTION (HT-SJSU) 90’ Part II: Selling Your Movie 5:30pm DXD II: DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM - HD POST STRATEGIES FOR DIGITAL CINEMA (UT-SJSU) 90’ Host Video Arts, a leading San Franciscobased digital studio, will provide audiences with razor-sharp insight regarding the high-definition post strategies. 4:30pm Sheriff (C3) 90’ Repeat Screening MARCH 14 3:00pm Madrid (C1) 80’ Repeat Screening 5:00pm Awful Normal (MD-SJSU) 89’ Repeat Screening 2:30pm DXD V: DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM - THE COLOR OF DIGITAL (UT-SJSU) 90’ Excellent and vibrant panel of both filmmakers and visual team experts who will explore the unlimited opportunities of digital media and the extraordinary evolution of color in movies. 4:00pm TBD (MD-SJSU) 7:15pm Sheriff (C3) 90’ World Premiere - A richly textured cinema vérité journey through the eyes of a small town Sheriff balancing a decent existence within a world that is seemingly devoid of morals. MARCH 13 10:30am Vote for Me! (UT-SJSU) 78’ Repeat Screening |61 10:00am Rewind (UT-SJSU) 98’ Repeat Screening 11:30am Security (MD-SJSU) 95’ Repeat Screening 12:15pm DXD IV: DIGITAL MEDIA FORUM - ALL DIGITAL MOVIE MAKING OPPORTUNITIES (UT-SJSU) 90’ From DV to HD, discover money saving alternatives made possible by breakthrough technology for the maverick filmmaker. 1:30pm Sad Spanish Song (MD-SJSU) 110’ Repeat Screening 2:15pm Fools (C3) 90’ Repeat Screening 2:30pm Being (C1) 80’ Repeat Screening tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org 62|CINEQUEST TICKETS AND VIP PASSES Platinum Pass* $500 Films & Forums Pass* $125 Gold Pass* $195 • Priority Entry to all Festival Screenings • DXD Digital Media Forums • Day of the Writer • Day of Distribution • Priority Entry to all Festival Screenings • Opening Night Gala & Film • DXD Digital Media Forums *Does not include Life of a Maverick Fundraising Event • Priority Entry to all • Day of the Writer Festival Screenings • Day of Distribution • Global Landscapes Events • Opening Night Gala & Film • Closing Night Gala & Film • Maverick Spirit Events • DXD Digital Media Forums • Day of the Writer • Day of Distribution • Global Landscapes Events • Maverick Spirit Events • Hospitality Lounge • Platinum Row Seating at Special Events • Metro Platinum VIP Party CINEQUEST TICKETS ON SALE NOW! Click www.cinequest.org or call 408.295.FEST (3378) now through March 13. During the festival, tickets also available for all venues at our Box Office: (Mar 1 – Mar 14) San Jose Repertory Theatre Box Office opens 30 minutes prior to the start of the first show of each day. San Jose State University Theater (Mar 5 – Mar 14) Box Office opens 30 minutes prior to the start of the first show of each day. Events sell out quickly, so please plan to place your orders early. Deadlines You may order event/screening tickets on the Web until midnight of the day prior to the event/screening. You can pick up your ticket order the following day at San Jose Repertory Theatre or San Jose State University Theater. Please note: Bring a picture ID and the Credit Card you used to pay for your order. Orders received before Feb 22 will be processed and mailed. Orders received on or after Feb 22 will be held for pickup at either of the above box office locations until the end of the festival. Sold Out Screenings and Events In the case of a sell out, Rush Tickets will go on sale 30 minutes prior to the event/screening on a cash only, first-come, first-served basis. If a Rush Ticket holder is not admitted, a full refund will be given. If you purchased your ticket in advance and you are present at the time of the event but cannot be seated, Cinequest will exchange or refund your ticket price. NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES If Cinequest must cancel or reschedule your event/screening, we will exchange your ticket for another screening/event of your choice (equal value exchanges only, please) at our main box office location at the San Jose Repertory Theatre. www.cinequest.org tix 408.295.FEST REGULAR SCREENINGS $7 Students (with valid student ID) & Seniors (55 +) $60 TenPack – 10 vouchers to attend 10 regular screenings of your choice (Not valid for Opening Gala, Closing Gala and Maverick Spirit films) $9 General Admission EVENT TICKETS Opening Night Gala (Premiere Screening & Party) Maverick Spirit Event An Afternoon with David & Janet Peoples -Heroes, Monkeys and the Unforgiven Maverick Spirit Event An Evening with Kurt Miller -Extreme Maverick Maverick Spirit Event(s) (TBD) DXD Digital Media Forums Day of the Writer (includes An Afternoon with David & Janet Peoples) Day of Distribution Closing Night Gala (Premiere Screening, Awards, & Party) (Premiere Screening, Awards ONLY) (3/3) $50 (3/12) $10 (3/11) $15 (TBD) (various) (TBD) $10/ea (3/12) (3/13) $20 $20 (3/14) (3/14) $50 $15 SPECIAL FUNDRAISING EVENT Life of a Maverick Fundraising Event (TBD) ($TBD) (check Web Site/Ticket Line after Feb. 14 for event specifics) CINEQUEST |63 Once in a while, we like to stimulate people with something other than our coffee. For over 30 years, Peet’s has been a proud sponsor of community and cultural events, and is pleased to support the Cinequest San Jose Film Festival. Locations throughout the Bay Area Coming Soon Bay Meadows • Santa Clara • Santana Row www.peets.com tix 408.295.FEST www.cinequest.org COMING THIS SUMMER DOWNTOWN SAN JOSE > Stadium Seating > Curved Screens > Rocking Chair Love Seats > Digital Surround Sound Camera One Camera 3 Los Gatos Camera 7 Pruneyard 366 So. First St. San José • 998-3300 So. 2nd & San Carlos San José • 998-3300 41 N. Santa Cruz Ave. Los Gatos • 395-0203 1875 S. Bascom Campbell • 559-6900 V i s i t o u r W e b s i t e a t w w w . c a m e r a c i n e m a s . c o m “See it First” Join Now - call 408-871-7774 Check www.cameracinemas.com/clubhome/htm for more information