AFF 2011 FILM COMPETITION WINNERS

AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES
2011 FILM COMPETITION WINNERS

AUSTIN, Texas – October 23, 2011 – The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is pleased to announce its 2011 Film Competition winners. Each year, the Austin Film Festival holds film competitions in seven categories: Narrative Feature, Narrative Short, Narrative Student Short, Animated Short, Documentary Feature, Documentary Short, and Young Filmmakers Competition.

Winners received cash prizes up to $1,000, reimbursements for travel and lodging while at the festival and access to and recognition by some of the most important writers, agents, producers and filmmakers in the industry. All awards were presented to the writers of the winning films on October 22, 2011 during the Austin Film Festival Awards Luncheon. The following winners were selected by category: 


2011 AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL FILM COMPETITION JURY WINNERS

Narrative Feature: Harold’s Going Stiff, written by Keith Wright
Documentary Feature: Darwin, directed by Nick Brandestini
Documentary Feature Special Jury Mention: Goold’s Gold, directed by Tucker Capps and Ryan Sevy
Narrative Short: Salar, written by Nicholas Greene
Narrative Student Short: Little Horses, written by Levi Abrino and Luke Matheny
Animated Short: The Fantastic Flying Books of Mr. Morris Lessmore, written by William Joyce
Animated Short Special Jury Mention: Who Lasts Longer, written by Gregorio Muro
Documentary Short: Abuelas, directed by Afarin Eghbal
Documentary Short Special Jury Mention: Day at the Pool, directed by Eric Fulford and Ian Douglass
Young Filmmakers Competition: Behind the Sun, written by Konstantinos Chaliasas

The Festival is recognized by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, and the winning film in the Animated Short and Narrative Short categories are eligible to be nominated for an Academy Award.

To learn more, vist www.austinfilmfestival.com.

About Austin Film Festival
The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the art and craft of filmmaking by inspiring and championing the work of screenwriters, filmmakers, and all artists who use the language of film to tell a story.

The Austin Film Festival is funded and supported in part by the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division and by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.

Special support is provided to the Austin Film Festival by Dos Equis, KVUE, KUT 90.5 FM, United/Continental Airlines, Esurance, and Wells Fargo Advisors.

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AFF 2011 AUDIENCE AWARDS

AUSTIN FILM FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES
THE 2011 AUDIENCE AWARD WINNERS
Presented by Esurance

ALSO: AFF ANNOUNCES DATES FOR NEXT YEAR'S FESTIVAL & CONFERENCE: OCTOBER 18-25, 2012

AUSTIN, TEXAS (November 4, 2011) ­ The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is proud to announce the 2011 Audience Award winners. Throughout the week of the Festival and Conference (Oct. 20-27) audience members were invited to numerically rate films by ballot following each films screening. The winners are as follows:

Out of Competition Feature:
THE ARTIST
Writer/Director: Michel Hazanavicius

Narrative Feature Competition:
RESTIVE
Writer/Director: Jeremiah Jones

Documentary Feature Competition: (Tie)
ECSTASY OF ORDER: THE TETRIS MASTERS
Director: Adam Cornelius

STORIES FROM AN UNDECLARED WAR
Director: Dennis Rice

Texas Independents:
SIRONIA
Writers: Brandon Dickerson, Thomas Ward, Wes Cunningham
Director: Brandon Dickerson

Comedy Vanguard:
FRED & VINNIE
Writer: Fred Stoller
Director: Steve Skrovan

Narrative Short:
MWANSA THE GREAT
Writers: Rungano Nyoni, Gabriel Gauchet
Director: Rungano Nyoni

Narrative Student Short:
BENNY
Writers: Evan Ho, Huay Bing-Law
Director: Huay Bing-Law

Animated Short:
THE FANTASTIC FLYING BOOKS OF MR. MORRIS LESSMORE
Writer: William Joyce
Directors: William Joyce, Brandon Oldenburg

Documentary Short:
ELLIOTT ERWITT: I BARK AT DOGS
Director: Douglas Sloan


The 2011 Film Competition and Screenplay/Teleplay winners have already been announced, and are available at http://www.austinfilmfestival.com/new/film_competition_winners_2011 and http://www.austinfilmfestival.com/new/screenplay_and_teleplay_winners_2011.

Last year's Audience Awards included Exporting Raymond, Dig, Make Believe, among others. The 2009 Out of Competition Audience Award Winner was Jason Reitman's Up in the Air, which was nominated for several Academy Awards, including "Best Picture" and "Best Director."2008 AFF Audience Award winner, Slumdog Millionaire, presented by director Danny Boyle, went on to win 8 Oscars®, including "Best Picture", "Best Director" and "Best Screenplay."

"There truly is no greater reward for a filmmaker than an Audience Award, which confirms their ability to tell a good story. Every filmmaker is a storyteller at heart, and you can't receive better validation than the approval of your audience," say AFF Film Programmers Stephen Jannise and Stephen Belyeu.

This year's Audience Award was sponsored by Esurance, the direct-to-consumer car insurance company. Esurance has been a longtime supporter of filmmakers and artists who help bring compelling stories to life.

The AFF has announced its dates for the 19th Annual Austin Film Festival and Conference, October 18-25, 2012. For information or to purchase a Badge, please call 1-800-310-FEST (3378) or visit the website at www.austinfilmfestival.com.


About Austin Film Festival
The Austin Film Festival (AFF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to furthering the art and craft of filmmaking by inspiring and championing the work of screenwriters, filmmakers, and all artists who use the language of film to tell a story.

The Austin Film Festival is funded and supported in part by the City of Austin through the Cultural Arts Division and by a grant from the Texas Commission on the Arts and an award from the National Endowment for the Arts, which believes that a great nation deserves great art.

Special support is provided to the Austin Film Festival by Dos Equis, KVUE, KUT 90.5 FM, United/Continental Airlines, Esurance, and Wells Fargo Advisors.

About Esurance
Esurance, an Allstate company, provides personal auto insurance direct to consumers online and through select agents, including sister company Answer Financial. Esurance is dedicated to constantly improving the way people shop for, buy, and manage their auto insurance. By combining the best of technology with industry know-how, Esurance is able to offer hassle-free coverage with 24/7 customer service and claims handling at competitive prices. For more information, visit www.esurance.com and www.answerfinancial.com.

Movie Doc's Top Ten Films of AFF

1. THE ARTIST
2. PARIAH
3. I MELT WITH YOU
4. BUTTER
5. JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME
6. THE DESCENDANTS
7. UNION SQUARE
8. THE RUM DIARY
9. SOME GUY WHO KILLS PEOPLE
10. BELOW ZERO

Honorable Mention: SAL
Movies I wish I had seen: SHAME, HAROLD'S GOING STIFF, YOU HURT MY FEELINGS

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Thursday October 27, UNION SQUARE

On my final night of AFF '11 I decided to go with the last screening at the Paramount theater, mainly because an old Hollywood crush would be in attendance. The Austin Film Festival closed their marquee screenings with a lovely film about family and dealing with loss. Written and directed by Nancy Savoca, UNION SQUARE stars Mira Sorvino (crush) and Tammy Blanchard as two estranged sisters who reconnect on Thanksgiving after not speaking with one another for some time. Lucy (Sorvino), upset after being jilted by a lover, looks up her younger sister Jenny (Tammy Blanchard). Originally from the Bronx, Jenny left home to get away from the family drama of her mother Lucia (Patti LuPone) and her older sister Lucy who's very much like their mother. Even though Jenny's life is more peaceful, the seemingly perfect life she has made for herself is not completely genuine. Both sisters awkwardly catch-up and the drama that ensues helps both of them face truths about themselves they had avoided for so long.

I was impressed by Savoca's incredible script and also by the performances of Blanchard and Sorvino. The film has a simple structure and limited locations which could translate well as stage play. Driven by realistic writing, character development, and amazing acting, the film exceeded my expectations and was a satisfactory conclusion to my coverage of the fest. Writer/director Savoca and actress Sorvino attended the screening and participated in the Q & A that followed. Savoca stated that her script was "strongly written, but had a breathing space for improvisation." This is clearly evident in the genuine performances by the cast which didn't feel staged at all. Savoca felt driven to capture a "raw emotion" which is often absent from movies. Sorvino claims that the two weeks she spent with Blanchard getting to know her well really helped with their chemistry. Sorvino also contributed all of her wardrobe from the film which is hyper-colorful and often loud. She attributes this to her Italian side. "My Italian side of the family wears strong loud colors which reflects their loud colorful personality." Mira clearly embraced this side for the Lucy character.

Because of the excellent writing and superb performance of Sorvino and Blanchard, I encourage audiences to seek out this film. I, honestly, am not aware of any theatrical video release dates, but recommend that people keep an eye out for it.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

Wednesday October 26, THE DESCENDANTS

When I first heard that the new Alexander Payne movie would screen at AFF, I nearly flipped. Starting with his film ELECTION and continuing with follow ups ABOUT SCHMIDT and SIDEWAYS, I became an ardent admirer of his filmmaking as well his taste in excellent stories. THE DESCENDANTS, like his last three films, is based an a novel. Payne usually selects genuine, true to life stories on which to base his films and his latest is no exception.

Based on the novel by Kaui Hart Hemmings, Payne and his co-writers Nat Faxon and Jim Rash tell the story of Matt King (George Clooney) and what becomes probably his most difficult time in his life. King, a successful attorney, has been coping with not only the emotion issues, but also the legal ones associated with having a spouse in a coma. His wife Elizabeth (Patricia Hastie) suffers a traumatic injury in a motor boat accident and her prognosis is terrible. At the same time, Matt has to juggle his responsibilities of his wife's care along with raising his daughters Scottie (Amara Miller) and Alexandra (Shailene Woodley). Finally, Matt, whose family sits on a prime piece of real estate in Hawaii, has to make an important decision regarding its sale.

While I didn't like this movie as much as his past two films (SIDEWAYS, ABOUT SCHMIDT), Payne still made an wonderful picture. He and his writers in his films have the profound talent to take often sad and depressing situations and highlighting the humorous, but real moments that can happen. As usual, he and his casting department assemble a wonderful cast to flesh out the characters beautifully. My only gripe with this film would be a small predictability factor regarding the subplot involving the property sale. The end result of that part of the story is pretty transparent. Still, this one criticism doesn't take much away from my enjoyment of the movie. I must highly encourage fans of Alexander Payne to go see this movie when it opens in theaters later this year.

DESCENDANTS actor and Georgetown native, Nick Krause attended the screening at the Paramount theater and did a brief Q & A following the movie. Krause, who plays Alexandra's friend Sid, has a hilarious part in the film. His facial expressions alone made me laugh hard. Krause seemed to really enjoy working with Payne who took the cast to Hawaii to spend some time preparing for the shoot. This helped Krause get into character as he observed the teenagers who live there and also got a tan to look the part. The preparation definitely worked as Krause often steals the show, even from Clooney.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

THE WOMAN IN THE FIFTH

After gushing with joy and with an almost permanent smile left on my face after THE ARTIST, I was not sure what to expect with my second feature of the night at the Paramount. Well, this thankfully short film left me a tad flat. Honestly, though, I'm not sure why the programmers thought an enigmatic and ambiguous art film could follow a classic-styled masterpiece and still expect to blow people away. This film especially plays out way too understated and brought many questions to mind, but didn't really develop the lead character well enough for me to empathize with him.

Ethan Hawke plays Tom Ricks, a socially awkward (the least of his issues) American author who travels to Paris to reconnect with his estranged daughter. Her protective mother prevents the two from spending much time together, so Ricks, desperate for work, reluctantly takes a job in an unusual and mysterious facility where he works the highly secure door. He also meets an odd, but alluring woman named Margit (Kristin Scott Thomas) with whom he begins a torrid affair. His everyday mysteries along with his sanity raise way too many questions, and by the "end" of the film, I lacked any real connection with his character to really care what it all means. Ethan Hawke offers a fine performance, but writer/director Pawel Pawilowski seems to do very little with the novel by Douglas Kennedy on which this film is based. I have not read Kennedy's book, but what I have read about it sounds much more thrilling and mysterious than this dull film version.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Tuesday October 26, Beginning with THE ARTIST

When I first saw the trailer for this movie, I became so excited for this film. As a fan of classic cinema, I have enjoyed several films from the silent era, particularly those by Charlie Chaplin. When I heard that AFF added this to the film roster, it rose to the top of the films I highly anticipated at the festival. I mainly had positive feelings going into this screening; however, my cynical side also worried that the movie would come across as too cheesy, sappy, and well, gimmicky. Well, I am overjoyed that my positive instincts were correct. THE ARTIST serves as a beautiful homage to classic cinema, particularly silent movies.

Writer/director Michel Hazanavicius takes audiences back to 1927 Hollywood, an era when silent film star George Valentin (Jean Dujardin) ruled the big screen. His reign is soon coming to an end though. Warned by his studio heads that talkies will take over, the prideful Valentin refuses to change with the times. Before he becomes obsolete, he meets a talented young dancer named Peppy Miller (the beautiful and radiant Berenice Bejo) whose own stardom eventually eclipses that of Valentin as she becomes the fresh face of the talkies.

I absolutely loved this movie. I not only consider this film one of my favorites of the year, but one of my favorites of all time. Hazanavicius does amazing work recreating that classic look and feel of movies in film's glorious younger days. I must applaud the gorgeous cinematography by Guillaume Schiffman and the music by Ludovic Bource which really add to the experience. The superb performances by Dujardin, Bejo, and their supporting cast which includes John Goodman, James Cromwell, and Penelope Ann Miller help Hazanavicius create a masterpiece which deserves to be dubbed as an instant classic. I must highly recommend this motion picture to all lovers of classic cinema.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

ROADIE

Following PARIAH, I watched another low budget and understated film about a lost soul/prodigal son who returns home to reconnect with his mother and old friends. Jimmy Testagross (Ron Eldard) left home long ago to become a rock band roadie. He has spent most of that time working for classic rock group Blue Oyster Cult. After being fired from the job, Jimmy finds himself back in Queens with nowhere to go or nothing to do. He decides to visit his elderly mother (Lois Smith) and ends up running into his ex-girlfriend (Jill Hennessy) and her husband, high school bully (Bobby Cannavale). Jimmy lies to his mother and friends, boasting of having worked up the ladder from roadie to manager who sometimes writes and produces. His time at home becomes a huge reality check which slaps him across the face and becomes a major turning point in his life.

I enjoyed the movie, even though I have seen many other like it. Writer/director Michael Cuesta who co-wrote the script with Gerald Cuesta creates a true to life story with solid writing. The film can definitely boast excellent performances by Eldard, Hennessy, Smith, and Cannavale. For the writing and acting alone, this film is worth a viewing.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Movie Doc's Monday Oct.24 Beginning with PARIAH

Well, Monday I returned for a double feature at the Texas Spirit Theater inside the Bob Bullock Texas Museum. The first feature was preceeded by a similarly themed short titled THE MAIDEN AND THE PRINCESS. Writer/director Ali Scher presented the audience with an awesomely done fairy tale about a young British girl named Emmy coping with her budding feelings towards her same sex. Ridiculed by her classmates, and misunderstood by her parents, Emmy tries to suppress these feelings. In the fairy tale land, The Grand High Council of Fairy Tale Rules charges her guardian fairy Hammond (David Anders) to write her a traditional fairy tale to set her on the "right" path. Hammond begins his tale traditionally, but soon realizes that tradition is not appropriate for everyone. This short adorable tale is written and produced for gay and lesbian children and teens who feel lost and cast out and can't relate to classic traditional fairy tales. Scher does beautiful work with this relevant and modernized fairy tale short.

PARIAH

Following the short and the subsequent Q & A with Ali Scher, the Texas Spirit played an incredible film titled PARIAH. This movie, which is more realistic and takes on a more serious tone than of its preceeding fairy tale, tells the story of high school student Alike (Adepero Oduye) and her day to day struggles to juggle duality. To her family, Alike comes across as a tomboy, but still grudgingly wears girlie clothes her mother Audrey (Kim Wayans) buys her. At school and among her circle of lesbian friends, Alike feels more free to be herself wear masculine clothes. She and best friend Laura (Pernell Walker) spend lots of their nights at the local lesbian club where Laura and Alike try to pick up women. In addition to the marital strife suffered by Alike's mother and father (Charles Parnell), things eventually come to a head regarding Alike's sexual identity and she finally decides to out herself when she grows tired of the deception.

Writer/director Dee Rees does an excellent job with this, her first feature film. Based on her acclaimed short by the same title, Rees shows some genuine raw talent that gives her movie an incredibly realistic feel and look. Along with a superb script, PARIAH showcases an outstanding cast. The entire cast and Rees deserve nominations in all of the major film awards. The biggest surprise for me would be Kim Wayans who normally is known for comedy. She and this film really blew me away. I know for sure that this movie will make my top ten list of films this year.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

The Movie Doc's Interview with Signe and Bob of BELOW ZERO

On Saturday morning, I had not only the pleasure of hanging out at the lovely Driskill Hotel (a perk of AFF), but also the pleasure of interviewing writer Signe Olynyk and producer Bob Schultz of BELOW ZERO. I really enjoyed discussing the creative process Signe went through to produce this script as well as the joys and pleasures of producing a low budget indie film in a small town. Bob and I also had to compliment each other on our T-shirts; his a red SHAUN OF THE DEAD tee and mine a black Darth Vader one.

Mark: What is the main inspiration for this film?

Signe: I wanted to produce a low budget thriller with limitations. I had a short screenplay, but suffered writer's block, so I locked myself in a meat locker for 5 days and left with this script.

Bob: You could call that method writing.

Mark: (To Signe) Tell about that experience.

Signe: By writing films within a restrictive space, characters help. It wasn't as bad as most people think. It was in an abandoned slaughterhouse in the middle of nowhere. The freezer was not working, but it was the middle of winter, so it was still very cold. I did have a heater.

Mark: Have you placed yourself in other extreme situations to inspire creativity?

Signe: I strapped myself to a chair once to write.

Mark: Where was the film shot?

Signe: It was shot in the same very same freezer where I wrote the screenplay in Edson, Alberta Canada. We had a great experience shooting in the small town. The folk were excited and supportive. We had a year and a half of volunteering from the community.

Mark: What is Edward Furlong like?

Signe: Extraordinarily talented and committed. He's a team player and really related to the character.

Mark: And Michael Berryman?

Bob: He is the kindest soul. He enjoyed talking to his fans. He enjoyed talking to the town volunteers who would sit spellbound as he spoke about his movies. My mother is a hospice chaplain and it only took me one phone call to get him to speak to a dying fan. He is such a kind, giving soul

Signe and Bob's production company is called "Me, Myself and Bob Productions."

Bob: (After AFF) I want to change the name to "Me, Myself, and Johnny Depp Productions" (laughs)

Mark: (To Bob) What are some of your previous projects?

Bob: This (BELOW ZERO) is the first I produced.

Mark: Have you gotten distribution for the film?

Bob: We have gotten many offers. Our producer's rep is still negotiating. So we are taking the festival route to prove ourselves to audiences.

Mark: What do you think about AFF so far?

Signe: The nice thing about the conference it it provides access to other screenwriters.

Bob: We are writers, but reluctant producers. No one cares more about your own project like you do.

Well, Signe and Bob definitely came to right film festival and BELOW ZERO definitely offers some perspective on "method writing" and the whole creative process. The film will have an encore presentation on Wednesday night, October 25, 10:15 pm at the Texas Spirit Theater. Go to austinfilmfestival.com for more details on this film and other film showing during AFF 2011 and to belowzeromovie.com for more information on this movie.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

The Rum Diary, Edward Scissorhands and Johnny Depp - Liz

How exciting to be able to say I was at the same place where Johnny Depp was at AND at the same time. Of the almost two decades I have continuously been taking photos for publications and websites, this was my first opportunity to do so with Johnny Depp on Friday, October 21st during the Austin Film Festival.

I had been looking forward to viewing 'The Rum Diary' in theaters at the end of the month, but it was a grand experience to be able to view it at the historic Paramount Theater with Johnny Depp in attendance.

I do not plan to write spoilers here about 'The Rum Diary,' based on the novel by Hunter S. Thompson, but suffice to say, it has comedy thrown in the dramatic adventure of journalist Paul Kemp (Depp). Filmed in San Juan (and limited scenes in Vega Baja) Puerto Rico, the cinematography is beyond beautiful. The Q&A with the star and the director, Bruce Robinson, was quite entertaining to say the least.

It was a treat to see 'Edward Scissorhands' on the big screen after many years of the original release (1990). The theater was full of many, many young fans (15-25 year olds) who were wanting to see the star of the film. One young UT student that sat next to me stated he had only seen the film on video and had only seen Depp's work on screen in theaters through the Pirates of the Carribean series of films.
Liz

Nine Animated Shorts at Hideout Theater were remarkable - Liz

What a wonderful surprise it was to be so engaged in the stories behind the nine animated shorts screened at The Hideout Theater on Congress Ave during the festival. I was fascinated by the creativity behind each story, the colors and the excellent sound.

The stories I felt had more depth and meaning to them were the international films. I look forward to knowing more about the filmmakers and what future feature films they may be involved in their careers.

The sound from the speakers in the small venue was almost too loud in one film, but not so much it totally distracted from the entrire production.

The following films are from the USA:

'Enrique Wrecks the World'
'Dr. Breakfast'
'Thumb Snatchers from the Moon Coccoon'
'Something Left, Something Taken'
'The Quite Life'

and the following were international entries:
'Birdboy' (Spain)
'Who Lasts Longer' (Spain)
'Playing Ghost' (UK)

Liz

Opening night film 'Butter' excelled - Liz

The AFF 2011 opening night film, 'Butter,' was a pleasant surprise for many in the audience that were not familiar with the comedy written by Jason A. Micallef (in attendance) and directed by Jim Field Smith.

The film stars Jennifer Garner, Ty Burrell, Hugh Jackman, Olivia Wilde, Alicia Silverstone, Rob Corddry, Ashley Greene and Phyliss Smith, just to name a few.

The young star of the show is Yara Shahidi (Salt, Imagine That), as Destiny, a young talented artist who discovers the art of butter carving, does it very well and competes against others that are dedicated to the art decades before her.

'Butter' screened at the Toronto International Film Festival last month, but the release date is yet to be announced.
I had a blast watching it and hope to have another opportunity to view it again in theaters in the future.

Liz

I MELT WITH YOU

This film was not at all what I was expecting and that's a wonderful thing. I knew only of the basic premise of the movie which sounded like a run-of-the-mill reunion story, but I certainly underestimated this film. Written by Glen Porter, and directed by Mark Pellington (U2 3D, HENRY POOLE IS HERE), I MELT WITH YOU begins like one of those reunion rehashes, but soon devolves into a drug-fueled, self destructive nightmare. I mean that as a compliment with the upmost sincerity.

Richard (Thomas Jane), Jonathan (Rob Lowe), Ron (Jeremy Piven), and Tim (Christian McKay) are all college buddies who meet annually to catch up and relive their alcohol and drugged out, hard partying days. Richard is a disillusioned school teacher who once had dreams of becoming an accomplished writer. Jonathan has a lucrative career as a physician; however, his financial "derives" from his unethical approach to medicine. Ron has a loving wife and family for whom he has provided a comfortable life with his work as an investment broker, but Ron also owes much of his success to illegal practices. Tim has always been the sensitive guy of the group. So when tragedy strikes taking two loved ones away, he falls into a profound state of depression.

The weekend begins as usual with the guys consuming mass quantities of alcohol and drug, but then takes a very dark turn as their attempts at escapism fail miserably and they cannot escape the demons of their past as well as their present. I have to say this truly dark and disturbing film has been my favorite of the festival so far. If Aronofsky's REQUIEM FOR A DREAM raped Cassavettes' HUSBANDS, this movie would be the evil, ungodly spawn. Director Mark Pellington, who has had a career directing music videos uses this highly stylistic approach beautifully and effectively. Glen Porter's script is amazing and gives the outstanding cast an opportunity to really display their acting chops. I also absolutely loved the 70s and 80s punk rock/new wave soundtrack that often heightens the action in the film. Thomas Jane arrived at the end of the screening for a Q & A. While proud of this work of art, he does almost apologetically label the movie as a downer. This film clearly will have an impact and will surely polarize audiences. This was obviously indicated as some people left during the screening.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD

Back at the Paramount, AFF welcomed local talent Mike Judge to present the return of his iconic and influential series to television. Judge brought with him an entourage of his family and friends whom he lovingly thanked for supporting him and putting up with his work all these years. As a fan of the old TV series, I was excited to attend this presentation of the first episode in many years. Sticking closely to the original format, but with some new updates, the episode of BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD takes the audience through two shorts. The first one explores how the TWILIGHT movies have inspired B & B to become either vampires or werewolves for the sake of scoring chicks. The second short shows Butthead constantly lambasting Beavis for "crying" while watching "The Bachelor". Because the dimwitted duo used to criticize and offer commentary on music videos during the era of MTV when videos were more prominent, Judge and his crew of writers have decided to update this by having the boys offer their commentary on current MTV programming such as JERSEY SHORE and 16 AND PREGNANT.

This first episode shows much promise for a triumphant return to television. The great comic writing had me constantly laughing and cheering among other fans in the crowd. Based on how successful this show renewal is, Judge may consider making another BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD movie sequel. Let's hope fans flock to watch and also that the show attracts a new following of viewers.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

SHORTS 10: DOC SHORTS

After enjoying some lunch, I headed to the Hideout for a type of screening that I unfortunately rarely get to attend, a shorts screening. This particular showcase just happened to be scheduled at the right time, so I went to the Hideout, which is a cafe and theater, and venue for all the shorts programs of AFF. The Shorts 10 program features all documentaries. Each of which are quite remarkably done.

This program presented A DAY AT THE POOL (Ian Douglass) which reveals much more about the inspiration behind the skating style of the Z boys of Dogtown, perhaps even more than they would like to admit. MY TOXIC REALITY (Tom Dusenbery) covers the pollution and decline of Port Arthur, Texas and the work done to correct these problems and hazzards. LAST MUSIC MAN (David Kalinauskas) serves a revealing expose on Dan Burke, concert promoter, journalist, and recovering drug addict from the Toronto music scene. LEMONADE: DETROIT (Erik Proulx) presents the very real struggles of the people in this troubled city and how they are trying to reinvent and revitalize it. ELLIOTT ERWITT "I BARK AT DOGS" (Douglas Sloan) presents a look at a successful and prolific photographer with a eccentric and hilarious alter-ego. Finally, ABUELAS (Afarin Eghbal) reveals the love of a grandmother and how this love and the love of other grandmothers sparked a movement in Argentina.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Sunday October 23, Beginning with SAL

After enjoying a tad more sleep than the previous night, I headed back down to the Paramount theater to once again join my colleague Liz for another red carpet opening. This time, writer/director/actor James Franco presented SAL, a motion picture he wrote and directed about the last day of hollywood legend Sal Mineo's life. Several years ago, after portraying James Dean in a television movie, Franco first became aware of the life and career of Mineo, who appeared in Dean's films REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE and GIANT. Sal Mineo was murdered in 1976 prior to his attempted comeback as a Hollywood star. During this period in his life Mineo (Val Lauren) had pretty much embraced a gay lifestyle, and was feverishly working to make a return to films by lobbying to direct his first feature film. Franco's film takes audiences through the entire day, beginning with his intense workout in the gym through his meeting with his agents, as well as his normal everyday connections with friends, and rehearsals with his play co-star Keir Dullea (Jim Parrack).

Franco's film does present a lovely and intimate portrait of a man whose lovely personality and caring heart touched the lives of those around him. The movie focusses on all of the little mundane details of his everyday life which does tend to bog the film's pace down a bit. It is clear; however, that Franco's intention is to present a realistic take without over dramatizing the events that led up to his surprising and tragic death. Franco definitely wore his film school hat on this project showing much talent as a director deriving his style from inspirations John Cassavettes and Gus Van Sant. Actor Val Lauren offers an amazing performance with much much charm and charisma as Mineo. During the Q & A, Lauren noted that he spent about five months preparing for this role by studying Mineo in his films and by spending time with Sal's former lover Courtney. Lauren went on to lovingly say, " Sal was an extremely sensitive soul."

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

BELOW ZERO

I had originally planned to rush out and trek to the Regal Arbor to catch SHAME, but upon more realistic consideration, I decided that it would be a wiser decision to grab some dinner and wait for the later showing of BELOW ZERO at the Alamo Village. I didn't really want to rush up north just to be turned away, and even if I did make it in, that means I would have to wait a few more hours to eat. I felt famished at that point. Besides, after interviewing the producer and writer of this film, I had a renewed interest and enthusiasm for it.

Written by Signe Olynyk and directed by Justin Thomas Ostensen, BELOW ZERO tells a based on true events story, of a writer who locks himself in a meat freezer to isolate himself from distractions and write a script. Jack "the hack" (Edward Furlong) agrees to this extreme technique form of "method writing" to appease his agent. While in the freezer, Jack begins writing a horror story about a man accidentally trapped in the freezer of a serial murderer (Michael Berryman). The film jumps back and forth from reality to different versions of his story and provides much insight into the extreme measures some artists take to create. During the movie not only does Jack become disoriented and confuses both reality and art so does the audience which serves the story well as a device for thrills and suspense.

I must say that this is a great movie to showcase at AFF, which is known as "the writer's festival". I am sure that lots of screenwriters can relate to the Jack character and his writer's block struggles as well as the feeling of completely immersing oneself into the work and process. Signe Olynyk, who actually wrote this film while locked up in the same meat freezer used in the film, does a fine job creating a fictionalized version of this scenario and does fantastic work building tension and suspense. Ostensen manages to make this micro-budget film look more expensive than it actually is and exercises great skill and artistry to bring this bizarre exercise in creativity to life.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME

After the Thompson panel, I immediate got in line for the screening of the Duplass brother's latest film. Suffering from arrested development possibly due to too much pot smoking, Jeff (Jason Segal) has been living in his mother's basement still waiting for a sign. He has been wanting a sign directing him towards his destiny, instead of making it happen on his own. His total opposite brother Pat (Ed Helms), however, could definitely use some time to reflect on the decisions in his life and the way he has treated his once loving and supportive wife Linda (Judy Greer). Pat's and Jeff's mother Sharon (Susan Sarrandon) lives a frustrated life. She has grown frustrated of her son Jeff who has refused to grow up and join the "normal" human race and is also frustrated with Pat for his total disregard for his family and wife. Sharon is also a lonely widow longing for the romance she has missed for many years. When Jeff receives a mistaken phone call, he believes that this has been the sign he has been waiting for and decides to further investigate this sign. His pursuit sets off a fateful chain of events which help everyone in his family take a moment to reflect on their lives and help unite the troubled family.

I have to say that I absolutely loved this movie! The Jay and Mark Duplass not only do an amazing job directing this film, but also have an insanely well written script which mixes their wonderful comic sensibilities with just the right amount of poignancy without being too sappy. The entire cast delivers excellent performances. I highly recommend this beautifully serendiptious movie.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

A Conversation with 2011 Distinguished Screenwriter Awardee Caroline Thompson

Following the indie filmmaking panel, I remained at the lovely Stephen F. Austin hotel and attended this really fun and fascinating panel which featured the slightly neurotic, quirky, hilarious, and adorable Caroline Thompson. This year's festival honored the work of Thompson in film and even screened one of her most celebrated films, the Tim Burton directed EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, which happens to be Thompson's favorite film. "It's my first baby," Thompson stated, "It just turned drinking age this year." She spoke very honestly and often candidly about her work experiences, and her creative methods.

Of her parents, Thompson revealed, "I had a teacher mother and a lawyer dad. I come from very square people, then I discovered LSD," laughs Thompson, "It let me know I had an imagination and could live there." Thompson went on to discuss all of her experiences as a writer and later in her career as a director. In addition to EDWARD SCISSORHANDS, Thompson's career includes ADDAMS FAMILY, HOMEWARD BOUND, and SECRET GARDEN (all as a writer), as well as her directing stints on BLACK BEAUTY, and television movie SNOW WHITE: THE FAIREST OF THEM ALL. On directing, Thompson found her experiences to be highly stressful and, thus decided to focus on writing.

As a passionate writer with an uncompromising vision, she has had her share of difficulty with studio heads, producers, and director often leading to her being fired from projects such as ADDAMS FAMILY, HOMEWARD BOUND, and CORPSE BRIDE. Currently, in addition to writing, Caroline Thompson has helped launch a film website called smallandcreepy.com. Small and Creepy Films serves as both a networking site and a venue where filmmakers can showcase their work.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Panel: INDEPENDENT FILMMAKING: PRE- PRODUCTION AND PRODUCTION

As I was provided with a badge this year, I really wanted to attend some of the conference panels to experience more of what AFF has to offer. I decided to attend this 3rd part of a series of panels on Saturday which provided much insight and information by experienced indie filmmakers to those wishing to follow in similar footsteps. The panel was headed by moderator Tom Copeland who teaches film at Texas State University and featured Kat Chandler, a writer, filmmaker, and lecturer at U.T. and Texas State, Weric Weissman, an entertainment lawyer, Bryan Poyser, another indie filmmaker (LOVERS OF HATE), Martin Guigui, a writer, director, record producer, and founder of Sunset Studios, and finally Scott Meyers, an assistant director who has worked on various film projects.

I found this panel to be quite informative with the panelists sharing real stories of their careers regarding legal issues, producing, budgets, acquiring investors, among other strategies and tricks of the trade. I am sure that the young and aspiring filmmakers learned much from this panel. Panels like this one are a valuable tool to people attempting a career in the art and business of film. This also serves as another reason why this conference and film festival deserves much more attention than it often gets.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Saturday October 22 Beginning with an Interview

I returned downtown to the Driskill hotel to conduct an interview with writer Signe Olynyk and her producer partner Bob Schultz who have presented their movie BELOW ZERO. It was a joy to interview Signe and Bob who obviously have a passion for writing and filmmaking. I will post the interview in the next couple of days, hopefully prior to their final screening of the movie.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

SOME GUY WHO KILLS PEOPLE

Following RUM DIARY, I took a break to relax and enjoy a couple of beers on Sixth St. before walking over to the Alamo Ritz theater to watch this movie. Writer Ryan Levin and director Jack Perez present the story of troubled Ken Boyd (Kevin Corrigan), a man trying to readjust to life after a stint in a "loony bin". Ken, a shy and anxious guy takes a job working for a local ice cream shop in his small home town while moving back in with his disappointed mother (Karen Black). Shortly after his arrival, Ken seeks bloody revenge against his old high school acquaintances whom he blames for his problems. Things get a bit more complicated when his daughter Amy (Ariel Gade) wishes to reconnect with him; and also when he becomes romantically involved with a woman named Stephanie (Lucy Davis). The town sheriff (Barry Bostwick), who also happens to be seeing Ken's mother, begins a full investigation and begins to tie all of the serial murders to Ken.

I really enjoyed this dark comedy. Ryan Levin does a great job with his script which gives the talented Corrigan and Barry Bostwick lots of great material. Bostwick really steals the show as the sometimes thick headed and somewhat inept sheriff. He has all of the great lines in the film. The young Ariel Gade displays tremendous talent and shows much future potential as an actress. I do highly recommend this for people who love dark comedies which combine a little horror gore with well written comic material.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Friday October 21 Beginning w/ THE RUM DIARY

THE RUM DIARY

I arrived early to the Paramount to grab a spot on the red carpet to interview and also snap some photos of Johnny Depp as he entered the theater to present his latest film RUM DIARY. Unfortunately, though, I was a bit disappointed to find out that I was approved to work on the carpet, but only to snap photos. I really wish this had been made clear by those in charge as I had prepared questions for Depp, but nevertheless, I still enjoyed the excitement and craziness surrounding this sweet celebrity appearance in Austin. A massive crowd of fans surrounded the area on all sides, taking pictures and also bearing items, such as guitars and movies for Depp to autograph. The energy felt intensely exciting, and as a fan of Depp's work, I couldn't help, but feel this excitement as well.

As for the film, the packed house at the Paramount was treated to another motion picture adaptation of a Hunter S. Thompson novel. Depp once again stars as Thompson's protagonist, this time a character (based on Thompson) by the name of Paul Kemp. Kemp, an alcoholic disillusioned young journalist, travels to Puerto Rico to get away from the U.S. in the 1950s and takes a job at a low budget, struggling newspaper. While there, he becomes connected with ruthless businessman Sanderson (Aaron Eckhart) and his girlfriend Chenault (Amber Heard). He also befriends his paper colleagues Sala (Michael Rispioli) and the insane Moburg (a hilarious Giovanni Ribisi). Kemp's experiences inspire him to write and give him a reason to care about writing once again.

Considering that this film is based on Thompson's early, much younger days, this movie will be much more accessible than the hallucinogenic chaos that is FEAR AND LOATHING IN LAS VEGAS. I found the movie to be highly entertaining, lovable and full of heart. Depp once again shines as he obviously has a passion for Thompson's work. During the Q & A, Depp stated that he had befriended Thompson since working on FEAR AND LOATHING and had spent much time with him "sponging his soul." Depp mentioned that most people know only Thompson's "savage and maniacal" side. "He had a very moral side, a Southern gentleman." The film obviously plays as a loving tribute by Depp and director Bruce Robinson who does a fine job recreating this early period of Hunter S. Thompson's career.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

Movie Doc's AFF Weekend Recap

Wow! I finally have a moment to step away from all of the films, panels, red carpets, and other events to recap what was indeed an awesome weekend for the 18th Annual Austin Film Festival. With some top notch talent and celebrities on hand at marquee screenings and panels, this year's AFF really outshines that of last year and the films, for the most part have been great. The blogs which follow will recap these movies and conference events of which I partook.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

DEADHEADS

Following the deliciously hilarious BUTTER, I literally jogged to the Alamo Ritz to catch the 10:00 screening of DEADHEADS. The reason for the haste had to do with the small size of the auditorium where the movie screened. Fortunately, I arrived at the right time and managed to get a seat; however, because of the popularity of zombie flicks, several attendees were turned away.

Writer/director brothers Drew Pierce and Brett Pierce present an interesting take on the zombie genre, combining elements of mostly road trip movies and romantic comedies. Mike (Michael McKiddy), a young man awakes from death as a zombie, but a cognizant one and not of the usual brain dead variety. His last memory is of his heartwrenching break up with his girlfriend. He meets a fellow "smart" zombie named Brent (Ross Kidder)who encourages him to go after his love and fight for her. The two hitch a ride with an old Vietnam war veteran (Harry Burkey) and acquire a pet zombie whom they name Cheese (Markus Taylor). While they have some fun and Mike has some time to reflect and remember his life and death, they must also deal with the government agents looking to either put them down or collect them for further experiments.

This micro-budget film, has some things going for it, but doesn't quite accomplish the greatness it had the potential to achieve. Drew and Brett Pierce manage to make their movie work somewhat despite their financial and resource limitations; however, the main weakness of their film lies in the writing and some of the annoyingly over the top performances. Some of the humor works, while some falls hard and flat. The Pierce brothers show much potential as directors, but could use some help with their writing. For die hard zombie fans, it is worth a look, but a look on DVD.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

Sironia Worldwide Premiere Tonight at the Rollins Theater in the Long Center for Performing Arts- Liz

The Rollins Theater is host to the Worldwide Premiere of the feature film, 'Sironia,' headling the Texas Independent Series of the Austin Film Festival. The film will be screened at 9:30pm and a Q&A will follow with the filmmakers and cast members.

Inspired by the music of singer-songwriter Wes Cunningham, 'Sironia' is the story of a talented musician who has been chewed up and spit out by the Hollywood music machine. Frustrated with it all, the musician moves his family back to Texas where is wife is from and choose to lead a more authentic life. 'Sironia' is inspired by by personal experiences.

The film is written and filmed in Waco, Texas, based on a screenplay by commercial and film director, Brandon Dickerson, musician Wes Cunninghan (who also stars in the lead role) and Thomas Ward, Baylor professor and a playwright.

The trailer of the film can be seen at http://vimeo.com/299320601

For more information about the film, visit http://www.sironiafilm.com/ and for ticket information visit http://www.austinfilmfestival.com/

Wes Cunningham will be performing at Progress Coffee, 500 San Marcos St at 6pm on Friday, October 21st and at The Highball, 1142 South Lamar, at 7pm on Monday, October 24th. Both are free and open to the public.

Liz

Movie Doc's Day One at AFF 2011

BUTTER

I started off my first festival night at the historic Paramount Theater for a marquee screening of the movie BUTTER. After reading the synopsis on the AFF website, I felt almost reluctant about attending this film as I wasn't really sure what to expect. I am so ecstatic that I set my qualms aside and dove right in. BUTTER stars Jennifer Garner and Ty Burrell as Laura and Bob Pickler, a couple in Iowa who have a peculiar claim to fame. Bob is a celebrated butter sculptor. He has reigned as the butter carving champion for many years, but has finally been asked to gracefully step down so that others may have a chance to win at the state fair. This does not sit well with Laura who in turn decides to enter in his place.

Laura who has dutifully stood by Bob's side during all of his competitions may not be as skilled as Bob, but has definitely picked up much from watching and assisting. When it looks like she will have scant competition, enter Destiny (Yara Shahidi), a young foster child who has a natural born talent for butter carving. The competition between the two becomes insanely heated, especially when Laura will stop at nothing to win and keep the championship within the family.

When this film opens in theaters, which according to writer Jason A McCallef (see above photos), who attended the screening, will be on October 28 in New York and L.A, and in December elsewhere, I highly encourage people to go see it. The content in this R-rated motion picture does get a tad raunchy and expletive laden at times, so if offended easily by this, then perhaps one should stay away. For those who can handle it, this film is an uproarously hilarious and often adorable movie. Oh and there is a particularly awesome cameo appearance by a certain actor, which I won't spoil. In fact, stay away from the Imdb.com page for this movie as it ruins this lovely surprise.

Mark Saldana

The Movie Doc

AFF 2011 Kicks off with Panels, Pitch sessions and Butter as the Opening Night Film

'Butter' opens the festival tonight at 7pm, with red carpet arrivals prior to the film at the Paramount Theater.

Austin Film Festival Kicks off in less than 24 hours - Liz

The 9th Annual Food and Film Gala was held the evening of October 19th at the Driskill Hotel, featuring Ryan Piers Williams, writer/director of 'The Dry Land' and the lovely Alexis Bledel (Gilmore Girls and Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants) as hosts for the evening.

Proceeds from the event and the event auctions help support the Young Filmmaker's Program for students 9-18.

There are so many films and conference panels that are hard to choose from, but the offerings are great. Mike Judge, James Franco, Johnny Depp, Mark and Jay Duplass just to name of few!!

Visit http://www.austinfilmfestival.com/ for complete details.

See you downtown this weekend as there is plenty to do!

Liz

Johnny Depp is attending AFF 2011

I just found out that actor Johnny Depp will present his latest release RUM DIARY and will also be the recipient an "Extraordinary Contribution to Film Acting" Award. He will also present Caroline Thompson her "Distinguished Screenwriter Award". With James Franco, the Duplass Brothers, and John Lassater attending this year's festival and conference, it should be an exciting time for this film geek.

Last night I finished my tentative schedule for the films and events and am getting pumped. As most film festival attendees know the schedule must be tentative for the usual unexpected surprises (both positive and negative) that often occur. Stay tuned for more news and updates as things really get going. Two more days!

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

AFF 2011

It was announced yesterday that both James Franco and Mike Judge will be attending this year's fest and will have some special presentations. Franco will present his new film SAL. Judge will offer a sneak peak at new BEAVIS AND BUTTHEAD footage. It should be a blast!

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

I'm excited to help cover AFF for a Second Time

Hi Folks!

Mark the Movie Doc here. I am so thrilled and excited to be covering the 2011 Austin Film Festival. This will be my second time to attend the fall festival and possibly some of the conference events. I say possibly as I am in the process of trying to upgrade my film pass to a badge which will offer much more access to the events besides the film screenings. If one has never been to AFF, I highly recommend it. It is a smaller, less chaotic film festival than some of the others which take place in Austin. Last year's film lineup included Oscar nominees BLACK SWAN and 127 HOURS.

This year's line-up boasts screenings such as THE ARTIST, Alexander Payne's THE DESCENDANTS, and Jay and Mark Duplass' JEFF WHO LIVES AT HOME. The panelists for this year include Alec Berg (SEINFELD, CURB YOUR ENTHUSIASM), Lawrence Kasdan (THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK, THE ACCIDENTAL TOURIST), and Disney/Pixar's John Lasseter.

It should be an exciting and fascinating time for anyone who can attend. For information on all events as well as ticket, pass, and badge prices, go to austinfilmfestival.com. If you see me at the Fest, please stop and say hi.

Mark Saldana
The Movie Doc

The Austin Film Festival is coming this month with great films- Liz

I am looking forward to this year's festival starting on the 20th!

The full schedule of films is on the website and there are many ways to attend the festival, from badges to indiviudual tickets. Visit http://www.austinfilmfestival.com/

Liz