The Inbox (May 17-23, 2014)

Every week, I get several press releases, screening invitations and other notifications from a handful of studio contacts. While I won’t be sharing any information regarding my screening invites, some of the press releases might be of interest to my readers, so I thought I’d start sharing them in toto with all of you. These could include new image galleries for various films or important updates to upcoming releases from various smaller studios and art house production companies.

Image Gallery: Edge of Tomorrow

Gallery Here

Press Release: Robert Towne and Cicely Tyson to Receive Honorary Degrees from AFI

ROBERT TOWNE AND CICELY TYSON TO RECEIVE HONORARY DEGREES FROM THE AMERICAN FILM INSTITUTE

2014 AFI CONSERVATORY COMMENCEMENT HELD ON JUNE 11, 2014 AT 10:00 A.M. AT THE HISTORIC TCL CHINESE THEATRE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, MAY 19, 2014, LOS ANGELES, CA – The American Film Institute (AFI) announced today it will confer Doctorate of Fine Arts degrees honoris causa upon two of American film’s finest – screenwriter Robert Towne and actress Cicely Tyson. Both Towne and Tyson will be recognized for their “contributions of distinction to the art of the moving image.” The honors will be presented during AFI Conservatory’s commencement ceremony on June 11, 2014 at the historic TCL Chinese Theatre.

Towne and Tyson join an esteemed group of artists previously honored with the AFI Honorary Degree: Robert Altman, Maya Angelou, Saul Bass, Kathryn Bigelow, Mel Brooks, Anne V. Coates, Caleb Deschanel, Clint Eastwood, Roger Ebert, Nora Ephron, James Earl Jones, Jeffrey Katzenberg, Kathleen Kennedy, John Lasseter, Spike Lee, David Lynch, Helen Mirren, Thelma Schoonmaker, Haskell Wexler, Robert Wise, John Williams and many more.

Robert Towne is a four-time Academy Award® nominee best known for his Oscar®-winning script for CHINATOWN (1974) – a film recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the greatest movies of all time. The film’s iconic final line – “Forget it, Jake, it’s Chinatown.” – also received AFI acknowledgement, ranking among the greatest film quotes in cinema history.

Towne’s many screenwriting credits include THE LAST DETAIL (1973); SHAMPOO (1975); GREYSTOKE: THE LEGEND OF TARZAN, LORD OF THE APES (1984); DAYS OF THUNDER (1990); THE FIRM (1993); MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE (1996) and MISSION: IMPOSSIBLE II (2000). His uncredited work has made him one of the most sought-after script doctors in Hollywood – with contributions to films as varied as BONNIE AND CLYDE (1967), THE GODFATHER (1972), THE PARALLAX VIEW (1974), CRIMSON TIDE (1995) and ARMAGEDDON (1998). An accomplished director as well as an iconic writer, Towne has helmed four of his own scripts – PERSONAL BEST (1982), TEQUILA SUNRISE (1988), WITHOUT LIMITS (1998) and, most recently, the film noir ASK THE DUST (2006). He is currently working as a consulting producer on the final season of AMC’s critically acclaimed series, MAD MEN.

Cicely Tyson is a celebrated American actress whose work in film, television and on the Broadway stage has spanned seven decades. She earned Best Actress nominations from both the Academy and the Golden Globes® for her performance as Rebecca Morgan in SOUNDER (1972) – a film recognized by the American Film Institute as one of the most inspiring films of all time. Tyson went on to win two Primetime Emmy® Awards for THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF MISS JANE PITTMAN (1974), and another for OLDEST LIVING CONFEDERATE WIDOW TELLS ALL (1994). She has been nominated for the award six more times, for such unforgettable performances in ROOTS (1977), KING (1978), THE MARVA COLLINS STORY (1982), SWEET JUSTICE (1994-1995), A LESSON BEFORE DYING (1999) and RELATIVE STRANGER (2009). She has appeared in eight Broadway plays – most recently starring in “The Trip to Bountiful,” for which she received the Tony® Award for Best Actress in 2013. In addition to her stage work, Tyson has remained active in film with memorable roles in THE HELP (2011) and FRIED GREEN TOMATOES (1991) – the latter of which was directed by Jon Avnet (AFI Class of 1972), an AFI Honorary Degree recipient last year.

Notably, Tyson is an alumna of the AFI Directing Workshop for Women (Class of 1977), where she directed the short SAVE ME A PLACE AT FOREST LAWN, which was produced by Jay Cassidy (AFI Class of 1976, and recently the editor of AMERICAN HUSTLE) and featured actor Dennis Christopher (DJANGO UNCHAINED). She also served on the AFI Board of Trustees from 1973 to 1978.

AFI Conservatory, named one of the top film schools in the world, offers a two-year Master of Fine Arts degree in six filmmaking disciplines: Cinematography, Directing, Editing, Producing, Production Design and Screenwriting. Aspiring artists learn from the masters in a collaborative, hands-on production environment with an emphasis on storytelling. Sony is a proud supporter of the AFI Conservatory.

About the American Film Institute
AFI is America’s promise to preserve the history of the motion picture, to honor the artists and their work and to educate the next generation of storytellers. AFI programs include the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and AFI Archive, which preserve film heritage for future generations; the AFI Life Achievement Award – the highest honor for a career in film – now in its 42nd year; AFI Awards, honoring the most outstanding motion pictures and television programs of the year; AFI’s 100 Years…100 Movies television events and movie reference lists, which have introduced and reintroduced classic American movies to millions of film lovers; year-round and special event exhibition through AFI FEST presented by Audi, AFI DOCS and the AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center; and educating the next generation of storytellers at the world renowned AFI Conservatory, recognized for the quality of its instructors and speakers and its notable alumni.

Press Release: Kickstarter Campaign Launched for “Crazywise” Documentary

Filmmakers Phil Borges and Kevin Tomlinson launch trailer and Kickstarter campaign for “Crazywise” documentary on mental health

A filmmaker’s quest to find answers for a young man’s illness moves him to question Western methods of diagnosis and treatment

SEATTLE, Wash. — Filmmakers Phil Borges and Kevin Tomlinson yesterday launched a Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign and released a new extended trailer for “Crazywise,” a documentary on alternative solutions to the current mental health crisis. The goal of the campaign is to raise $75,000 by June 20 for remaining production and post-production costs.

View the trailer and additional info on the Kickstarter page: http://kck.st/1iNkVfy

May is Mental Heath Month, and “Crazywise” embodies the need for additional education, information and resources about mental health treatments.

A 20-year fascination with shamanism leads photographer and filmmaker Phil Borges to question how Western culture defines and treats severe mental disorders. He meets and begins filming Adam Gentry, a 29-year-old former wakeboard champion who struggles with his sanity following a psychotic break. Desperate and feeling shame from being labeled with a potential lifelong disease, Gentry goes off his meds and embraces meditation. Later, after revealing his mental diagnosis, Gentry is turned away from future meditation retreats. he soon becomes homeless, alienated from his family and is living alone out of a friend’s car.

While documenting Gentry’s story, Borges becomes increasingly aware of the severity of the mental health crisis in America. He discovers an emerging, survivor-led movement supported by a passionate group of renowned mental health professionals, activists and scholars who are advocating for alternatives to the biomedical based standards by which most mental illness is currently defined and treated.

The “Crazywise” production team has spent two years filming with Gentry while conducting interviews with more than 35 experts including Robert Whitaker, Gabor Mate, Mary Olson, E. Fuller Torrey, Will Hall and Sandra Ingerman.

Borges and Tomlinson are available for interviews during the Kickstarter campaign, which runs until midnight on Friday, June 20. Backer Rewards include DVD and digital versions of the film once it’s finished, sensory deprivation float sessions at Float Seattle, limited edition pieces of Phil Borges’ art and workshops with the filmmakers.

The extended “Crazywise” trailer is also streaming and embeddable on the official YouTube Channel, where the filmmakers will release bonus content throughout the Kickstarter campaign.

Please direct media inquiries to the contacts listed at the top of this release. Learn more at CrazywiseFilm.com.

ABOUT THE FILMMAKERS
Phil Borges, Social Documentary Photographer and Filmmaker

For more than 25 years, Phil Borges has been documenting indigenous and tribal cultures, striving to create an understanding of the challenges they face. His work is exhibited in museums and galleries worldwide, and his award winning books have been published in four languages.

Borges has hosted television documentaries on indigenous cultures for Discovery and National Geographic. As an experienced lecturer, he has spoken at multiple TED talks, including TED in 2007, TEDxRainier in 2012 and TEDxUMKC in 2013. Borges directed 13 short documentaries between 2004-2012 focusing on gender issues around the world for UN Women, CARE, ReSurge, joinFITE, Foundation for Women and One Heart.

Director: Kevin Tomlinson, Producer, Director and Cinematographer

Kevin Tomlinson has earned numerous Emmy and Telly Awards for his network news camerawork with NBC, ABC, CBS, PBS and Discovery. He has worked with clients ranging from Microsoft, The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Ford, Cineplex Odeon to Nickelodeon and the Nationally broadcast PBS series, “Travels in Europe” with Rick Steves. Tomlinson directed and co-produced the award-winning feature documentary “Back to the Garden,” which premiered at SIFF (2009) and played at more 30 international film festivals, airing both locally and nationally on PBS.

Press Release: “Dream School” to Receive Second Season

SUNDANCE TV GREENLIGHTS SECOND SEASON OF NON-FICTION ORIGINAL SERIES “DREAM SCHOOL”

New Season Features Executive Producers Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson and Chuck D; Instructors Include, David Chang, Johnny Weir, Cliff Dorfman, Alvin Hall, Gloria Allred, among others

New York, NY – May 19, 2014 – SundanceTV announced today the greenlight of season two of the original non-fiction series “Dream School.” Multi-platinum award-winning musician and entrepreneur Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson will executive produce along with one of hip-hop’s most influential and positive voices Chuck D. The series format was created by campaigning chef and global food entrepreneur Jamie Oliver who will also executive produce under his Fresh One shingle. “Dream School” is an ambitious project where the best and the brightest in our culture teach kids that have been falling through the cracks. The announcement was made today by Sarah Barnett, SundanceTV President. The six-episode hour long series is slated to premiere in fall 2014.

This season’s dream team of instructors includes: chef and restaurateur David Chang, Olympic figure skater Johnny Weir, Emmy award winning screenwriter and director Cliff Dorfman (“Entourage”), survival expert Les Stroud, journalists Young Turks (Cenk Uygur and Ana Kasparian), financial educator Alvin Hall, fitness instructor Nicole Winhoffer, Historian David Eisenbach, Rabbi Shmuel “Shmuley” Boteach (author of Kosher Jesus and Kosher Sex), actor Dean Winters, and lawyer and rights activist Gloria Allred.

SundanceTV President, Sarah Barnett, stated, “Season One of ‘Dream School’ explored the real life struggles that young people face today and how an outside-the-box approach can result in true transformation and a chance to start over. Our audience responded strongly to the powerful drama and inspiration of last season and we think they will find this season every bit as engaging.”

The complete list of instructors for season two is as follows:
Gloria Allred (Civil Rights Attorney) – Legal Studies
50 Cent (Musician and Entrepreneur)
David Chang (Chef and founder of Momofuku Restaurant Group) – Nutrition and Culinary Arts
Chuck D (Hip-Hop Legend) – Sociology
Cliff Dorfman (Screenwriter) – English
David Eisenbach (Author and Historian) – History
Alvin Hall (Financial Advisor and Author) – Math
Gaye Theresa Johnson (Activist, Author and Historian) – Sociology
Ana Kasparian (“The Young Turks” Co-host and Producer) – Journalism
Adam Richman (Television personality) – Environmental Studies
Don Rimx (Artist) – Art
Rabbi Shmuley (Author, TV Host and Public Speaker) – Religious Studies
Les Stroud (Survival Expert) – Earth Sciences
Cenk Uygur (“The Young Turks” Main Host and Co-founder) – Cultural Studies
Johnny Weir (Olympic Figure Skater) – Physical Education and Communications
Nicole Winhoffer (Fitness Instructor) – Physical Education
Dean Winters (Actor) – Life Skills

What would happen if the kids who were the hardest to reach in conventional school, instead attended a place of learning where the educators were achievers and leaders – many of whom have become household names? In “Dream School,” classes are taught by professionals from the top of their fields – and the faculty includes professional musicians, journalists, filmmakers, scientists, athletes, and actors. This series creates a place for troubled teenagers to be inspired to turn their lives around. Homeless, privileged, neglected or bullied; the kids on this show all have one thing in common — they have dropped out of high school. Now SundanceTV is giving them a once in a lifetime chance to start over. Overcoming past failures and future obstacles will prove to be no easy task for both the students and teachers in this series.

The show is made by Fresh One Productions, the production company which Jamie Oliver launched, and its Emmy award winning executive producer Roy Ackerman. The show is also produced by G-Unit Films and Television, the production company launched by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, with Jackson serving as Executive Producer. His producing partner Andrew Jameson serves as Executive Producer as well.

The network has a robust lineup of upcoming original programming. Unscripted original “The Writers’ Room” finales on June 2nd. It’s scripted slate includes the second season of critically acclaimed “Rectify” from the producers of “Breaking Bad” which will premiere on June 19th. Its highly anticipated original mini-series, “The Honorable Woman” starring Maggie Gyllenhaal, will premiere on July 31st, and recently announced “One Child” will air at the end of 2014.

About SundanceTV
SundanceTV is making and celebrating television as distinctive as the best independent films. Working with today’s most remarkable talent, SundanceTV is attracting viewer and critical acclaim for its original scripted and unscripted series. Launched in 1996 and owned and operated by AMC Networks Inc., SundanceTV delivers on the spirit of founder Robert Redford’s mission to celebrate creativity.

About AMC Networks Inc.
Dedicated to producing quality programming and movie content for more than 30 years, AMC Networks Inc. (NASDAQ: AMCX) owns and operates several of the most popular and award-winning brands in cable television. AMC, IFC, SundanceTV, WE tv, and IFC Films produce and deliver distinctive, compelling and culturally relevant content that engages audiences across multiple platforms. The company also operates AMC/Sundance Channel Global and AMCN Chellomedia, international programming businesses that reach over 138 countries, and AMC Networks Broadcasting & Technology, a full-service network programming origination and distribution company.

Press Release: The Cast of “The Carol Burnett Show” Reunites on “The Queen Latifah Show”

ON MAY 20TH, THE CAST OF “THE CAROL BURNETT SHOW” REUNITES ON TV FOR THE FIRST TIME IN 10 YEARS ON “THE QUEEN LATIFAH SHOW”!

Carol Burnett, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence, Lyle Waggoner and Bob Mackie Join Queen Latifah To Tell Behind-the-Scenes Stories of Comedy’s Greatest Variety Show!

Fans seeking the Most Hilarious and Memorable Episodes of THE CAROL BURNETT SHOW Can Turn to the Latest DVD Collection in the StarVista Entertainment/Time Life Franchise: CAROL’S CRACK-UPS, a 6-Disc Collection Just Released for $59.95srp

FAIRFAX, VA — On May 20th , fans of classic TV comedy are in for an incredible treat, as The Queen Latifah Show has assembled the cast of “The Carol Burnett Show” for their first televised appearance together in 10 years! Join Queen, as she sits down with Carol herself, Tim Conway, Vicki Lawrence, Lyle Waggoner and Bob Mackie as they recount the best and most unforgettable moments from one of TV’s greatest variety shows ever. “The Queen Latifah Show” airs in syndication on stations across the country.

Following “The Queen Latifah Show”, fans looking to relive the most hilarious sketches, characters and moments from “The Carol Burnett Show” should look no further than CAROL’S CRACK-UPS, an all-new 6-disc collector’s set featuring 17 uncut episodes and a spectacular selection of specially-produced extras – many never before available in a wide retail release! Carol personally selected each of the 17 hilarious episodes from her extensive archive and they all feature one of the show’s fan-favorite hallmarks: sketches so funny that they tested the strength of even the most seasoned cast members — Harvey Korman, Vicki Lawrence, Lyle Waggoner, Tim Conway and later Dick Van Dyke. Among other unforgettable moments, enjoy Harvey Korman cracking up with Tim Conway in numerous sketches, and, see Carol try to hold back the laughs as Vicki Lawrence took the stage as her timeless character, Mama.

Across 6 loaded DVDs, consumers will crack-up along with Carol and crew in UNCUT episodes as they originally aired on television. Showcasing some of the most acclaimed and beloved moments from the legendary series from television’s Golden Age, the set includes classic sketches such as “The Family,” “Carol and Sis,” “Alice Portnoy,” “The Charwoman” and “The Old Folks,” along with sidesplitting parodies and favorite segments including “TV Commercials,” “Terminal Hospital,” Rebecky and Raised to Be Rotten. And, adding to the crack ups are guest stars galore, including such luminaries as Carl Reiner, Charo, Roddy McDowall, Ruth Buzzi, Andy Griffith and many others, as well as StarVista’s acclaimed and extensive special programming featuring interviews, cast commentary and bonus sketches such as Valerie Harper and Tim Conway’s installment of “As the Stomach Turns”; George Carlin’s dentist sketch; the therapy session with James Garner and Ken Berry; plus the interrogator routine with Tim, Harvey and Lyle; as well as two brand new featurettes never-before-available: “Tim Conway: Chief Cracker Upper” and “Tim on the Street.”

So, whether or not you were able to catch their reunion on “The Queen Latifah Show”, if you enjoy legendary comedy from TV’s Golden Age and want to continue to belly laugh along with Carol and crew, check out CAROL’S CRACK-UPS, available wherever DVDs are sold, and Amazon.com!

Press Release: Matt Rosen forms New Management Company

LIT AGENT MATT ROSEN FORMS NEW MANAGEMENT COMPANY WITH MANAGER JEFF SILVER AND PRODUCER BRIAN KAVANAUGH-JONES

Rosen, Silver, and Kavanaugh-Jones combine to form Grandview, a worldwide, full service management company for writers, filmmakers, and television producers. Kavanaugh-Jones to continue running Automatik

LOS ANGELES, CA (May 19, 2014) – CAA Literary Agent Matt Rosen, Manager Jeff Silver, and Producer Brian Kavanaugh-Jones have formed a new management company called Grandview, the trio announced today. Grandview will manage writers, filmmakers, and television producers, focusing on high-end commercial fare, stretching across all genres and mediums.

The company will have two distinct sides: Rosen and Silver will helm the management side, both working as representatives. The creation of Grandview allows them to focus more time on building the careers of their clients, while offering a more complete package than a management company alone. Kavanaugh-Jones will advise clients on production and packaging, while continuing to produce films under his Automatik banner. Grandview will open its doors in June, with future plans to expand into talent and other areas.

“We are building a company that is solely client focused, and rooted deeply in talent, ambition, and culture. Grandview will provide the resources of a big firm, but still have the intimate feel of a family operation,” states Jeff Silver.

Matt Rosen adds, “CAA has been an amazing home for me and while I am sad to leave, I am very excited to start this new endeavor with Jeff and Brian. “

Grandview will retain clients from Silver’s past company, Fourth Floor Productions, including screenwriters Michael Mitnick (the upcoming Weinstein release THE GIVER), Andrew Dodge (BAD WORDS), and Matthew Charman (UNTITLED JAMES DONOVAN PROJECT for Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks), whom he represents with Rosen. Kavanaugh-Jones will continue producing Jeff Nichols’ next feature, MIDNIGHT SPECIAL starring Michael Shannon, Joel Edgerton, Kirsten Dunst and Adam driver, for Warner bros, and AUTOBAHN, directed by Eran Creevy, starring Nicholas Hoult, Felicity Jones, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Sir Ben Kingsley. He will start production on INSIDIOUS 3 this summer.

“I am so excited to be partnering with Jeff and Matt and have the opportunity to bring my producing and financing background to the table for Grandview and their clients,” said Brian Kavanaugh-Jones.

The trio originally met at CAA, where Rosen and Silver were in the Motion Picture Literary Department and Kavanaugh-Jones was part of the Film Finance & Sales Group.

Matt Rosen joined CAA in 2006, working for Richard Lovett and John Campisi before his promotion to MP Literary Agent in 2009. His clients include Arash Amel (writer/producer GRACE OF MONACO, which opened this year’s Cannes Film Festival), Mark Heyman (BLACK SWAN), and Aron Coletie (writing TWILIGHT ZONE for Warner Bros.)

Working in the intellectual property space, Matt packaged and negotiated the TERMINATOR rights deal with Skydance/Annapurna, which is currently in production. He also sold the comic book rights for the feature OBLIVION, as well as negotiated a first look deal at Fox for comic book publisher Boom/Archaia (2 GUNS).

Jeff Silver has been running Fourth Floor Productions for close to five years. His clients include TJ Fixman (writing MEN WHO KILL at Fox with Michael B. Jordan), Mitch Akselrad (TURN), Jonathan Igla (MAD MEN), and the team of Joe Shrapnel and Anna Waterhouse (RACE). He works with playwrights Dan Lefranc (currently writing on THE AFFAIR) and Robert Askins (HAND TO GOD, which is getting a Broadway run this fall); novelists, including Charles Cummings (A FOREIGN COUNTRY and THE TRINITY SIX); and BAFTA Award Winning Filmmaker James W. Griffiths.

Brian Kavanaugh-Jones is the President of Automatik and has produced over 20 movies since the inception of the company 4 years ago. His credits include SINISTER starring Ethan Hawke and directed by Scott Derrickson,INSIDIOUS which was 2011’s most profitable film directed by James Wan and produced alongside Jason Blum, as well as its successful 2013 sequel, INSIDIOUS: CHAPTER 2. He recently wrapped AIR starring Norman Reedus and Djimon Hounsou and THE SIGNAL, directed by Will Eubank and starring Brenton Thwaites and Laurence Fishburne, which is being released through Focus Features on June 13.

In addition, Grandview will retain employees Fourth Floor managers Chris Goble and Zac Frognowski. Automatik will retain executives Bailey Conway and Rian Cahill.

Press Release: Agnes Varda Documentary Series to Premiere at Film Society of Lincoln Center

Five-Part Agnes Varda Documentary Series to Premiere at Film Society of Lincoln Center on May 31 and on SundanceNOW Doc Club Beginning June 1

Stranger Than Fiction will also screen Varda’s BEACHES OF AGNES on May 27

NEW YORK, NY – SundanceNOW Doc Club will be premiering French TV miniseries AGNES VARDA: FROM HERE TO THERE on its unique curated subscription streaming service beginning June 1st, as part of “Agnes Varda Month.” To celebrate the premiere, two New York institutions will host Varda events: On May 27, Stranger Than Fiction at IFC Center will be screening Varda’s most recent theatrical release, BEACHES OF AGNES. On May 31, a free marathon screening of all five parts of AGNES VARDA: FROM HERE TO THERE will take place at the Film Society of Lincoln Center’s Amphitheater.

This five-part documentary series, which originally aired on French television, chronicles the indefatigable filmmaker’s travels around the world, meeting friends, artists and filmmakers for an expansive view of the global contemporary art scene. Whether in Los Angeles or St. Petersburg, Lisbon or Mexico, Varda finds herself attending a moving celebration of Jacques Demy, talking with Alexander Sokurov, visiting with Chris Marker at his home, or dancing with Manoel de Oliveira. Varda films everywhere, never letting her camera leave her side, and then puts together these images and impressions in her own original way. Steeped in the nature of both television’s playfulness and cinema’s fantasy, each encounter is infused with the director’s characteristic insight, inquisitiveness and wonder. Comprised of five episodes, each approximately 45 minutes, AGNES VARDA: FROM HERE TO THERE is a joyous celebration of life, art and people.

In conjunction with The Cinema Guild, other films from the distributor being featured in “Agnes Varda Month” include The Beaches of Agnes, Daguerréotypes, and Cinévardaphoto. Also available for streaming, as part of the series, is Varda’s iconic The Gleaners and I.

FULL SCREENING INFORMATION BELOW:

BEACHES OF AGNES
Stranger Than Fiction
May 27 at 8PM
IFC Center
323 Avenue of the Americas

AGNES VARDA FROM HERE TO THERE Marathon Screening
May 31 at 6PM
Film Society of Lincoln Center’s Amphitheater
144 West 65th Street

This event is free and open to the public. Complimentary tickets will be distributed at the box office starting one hour prior to the event, but the line may form earlier. There is a limit of one ticket per person.

ABOUT SUNDANCENOW DOC CLUB
For a low monthly fee of $4.99, subscribers to Doc Club have access to a remarkable collection of documentaries available for streaming online. Each month there is a new “theme” featuring 6-10 films, and as with “Agnes Varda Month” each month’s program is hand-selected by documentary guru Thom Powers. Subscribers have access to the archive of all previous themed months, a vast selection of over 200 documentaries.

Press Release: Divergent Makes Home Entertainment Debut

THE BLOCKBUSTER FILM BASED ON THE #1 NEW YORK TIMES BEST-SELLING BOOK SERIES MAKES ITS HOME ENTERTAINMENT DEBUT

THRILLING ACTION ADVENTURE ARRIVES ON BLU-RAY COMBO PACK, DVD AND ON DEMAND AUGUST 5

DIGITAL HD AVAILABLE JULY 22

SANTA MONICA, CA (May 20, 2014) – Lionsgate (NYSE: LGF), the premier next generation global content leader, will release the electrifying first installment of the blockbuster action adventure franchise Divergent on Blu-ray Combo Pack (plus DVD and Digital HD), DVD (plus Digital), Video on Demand and Pay-Per-View on August 5, the Company announced today. The film will be available on Digital HD two weeks early on July 22.

Based on Veronica Roth’s #1 New York Times best-selling book series which has sold nearly 22 million copies worldwide, the film features an all-star cast including Shailene Woodley, Theo James, Academy Award® winner Kate Winslet and Ashley Judd. To date, Divergent has grossed nearly $150 million at the domestic box office and more than $250 million worldwide in its theatrical release on Lionsgate’s Summit Entertainment label, getting the ‎new franchise off to a fast start. The next three installments — Insurgent and Allegiant Parts 1 & 2 — will be released theatrically on March 20, 2015, March 18, 2016 and March 24, 2017, respectively.

Packed with bonus material, the Blu-ray Combo Pack includes the documentary “Bringing Divergent to Life,” an in-depth look at the making of the film plus the exclusive featurette “Faction Before Blood,” detailing the film’s future world. The Blu-ray Combo Pack and DVD both feature deleted scenes and two audio commentaries – one with director Neil Burger and one with producers Douglas Wick and Lucy Fisher. The Divergent Blu-ray Combo Pack will be available for the suggested retail price of $39.99 and the DVD for $29.95.

Divergent stars Shailene Woodley (upcoming The Fault in Our Stars), Theo James (Underworld: Awakening), Ashley Judd (Double Jeopardy), Jai Courtney (A Good Day to Die Hard), Ray Stevenson (Thor), Zoё Kravitz (X-Men: First Class), Miles Teller (The Spectacular Now), Tony Goldwyn (TV’s “Scandal”), Ansel Elgort (upcoming The Fault in Our Stars), Maggie Q (TV’s “Nikita”), Mekhi Phifer (ShowTime’s “House of Lies”) and Academy Award® winner Kate Winslet (Best Actress, The Reader, 2008). The film is directed by Neil Burger (The Illusionist, Limitless) from a screenplay by Evan Daugherty (Snow White and the Huntsman) and Vanessa Taylor (HBO’s “Game of Thrones”).

Divergent is a thrilling action adventure set in a future world where society has been divided into five distinct factions. But Tris will never fit into any one group—she is Divergent, and what makes her different makes her dangerous. Targeted by a faction leader determined to eliminate all Divergents, Tris turns to the one person she believes she can trust: Four, an instructor for the militant Dauntless faction, and a man full of dark secrets. Together, Tris and Four uncover a mind-bending conspiracy that will put their courage to the ultimate test…and forever link their destinies.

BLU-RAY COMBO PACK SPECIAL FEATURES*
· “Bringing Divergent to Life” Documentary
· “Faction Before Blood” Featurette
· Deleted Scenes
· Audio Commentary with Director Neil Burger
· Audio Commentary with Producers Douglas Wick and Lucy Fisher

*Subject to change

DVD SPECIAL FEATURES*
· Deleted Scenes
· Audio Commentary with Director Neil Burger
· Audio Commentary with Producers Douglas Wick and Lucy Fisher

*Subject to change

PROGRAM INFORMATION
Street Date: August 5, 2014
Price: $39.99 Blu-ray / $29.95 DVD
Title Copyright: Divergent © 2014, Artwork & Supplementary Materials ™ & © 2014 Summit Entertainment, LLC. All Rights Reserved
Rating: PG-13 for Intense Violence and Action, Thematic Elements and Some Sensuality
Feature Run Time: 139 Minutes
Type: Theatrical Release
Genre: Action/Adventure
Closed Captioned: NA
Subtitles: English SDH and Spanish
Blu-ray Format: 1080P High Definition 16×9 Widescreen (2.40:1)
DVD Format: 16×9 Widescreen (2.40:1)
Blu-ray Audio Status: English 7.1 DTS-HD Master Audio, Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, English 2.0 Dolby Digital Optimized for Late-Night Listening and English Descriptive Audio
DVD Audio Status: English and Spanish 5.1 Dolby Digital, English Descriptive Audio

ABOUT LIONSGATE
Lionsgate is a leading global entertainment company with a strong and diversified presence in motion picture production and distribution, television programming and syndication, home entertainment, family entertainment, digital distribution, new channel platforms and international distribution and sales. Lionsgate currently has 34 television shows on 22 networks spanning its primetime production, distribution and syndication businesses, including such critically-acclaimed hits as the multiple Emmy Award-winning Mad Men and Nurse Jackie, the comedy Anger Management, the network series Nashville, the syndication success The Wendy Williams Show and the critically-acclaimed series Orange is the New Black.

Its feature film business has been fueled by such recent successes as the blockbuster first two installments of The Hunger Games franchise, The Hunger Games and The Hunger Games: Catching Fire, the first installment of the Divergent franchise, Now You See Me, Kevin Hart: Let Me Explain, Warm Bodies, The Expendables 2, The Possession, Sinister, Roadside Attractions’ Mud and Pantelion Films’ breakout hit Instructions Not Included, the highest-grossing Spanish-language film ever released in the U.S.

Lionsgate’s home entertainment business is an industry leader in box office-to-DVD and box office-to-VOD revenue conversion rate. Lionsgate handles a prestigious and prolific library of approximately 15,000 motion picture and television titles that is an important source of recurring revenue and serves as the foundation for the growth of the Company’s core businesses. The Lionsgate and Summit brands remain synonymous with original, daring, quality entertainment in markets around the world.

Press Release: AFI Docs Unveils Full Slate of 2014 Films

AFI DOCS UNVEILS FULL SLATE OF 2014 FILMS

Celebration of Documentaries Presents 84 Films from 28 Countries June 18–22

Festival Opens with World Premiere of HOLBROOK/TWAIN: AN AMERICAN ODYSSEY Closes with LIFE ITSELF and Celebrates Alex Gibney as Guggenheim Honoree

New Events Include Catalyst Screenings and the Filmmaker Engagement Program

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE, May 21, 2014, WASHINGTON, DC – AFI DOCS announced today its full slate of films for the 2014 festival, which runs from June 18–22 in Washington, DC, and Silver Spring, MD. The festival will showcase 84 films representing 28 countries, including four World, three U.S. and eight East Coast Premieres. AFI DOCS opens with HOLBROOK/TWAIN: AN AMERICAN ODYSSEY and closes with LIFE ITSELF. The festival’s annual AFI DOCS Charles Guggenheim Symposium will honor Academy Award®-winning documentarian Alex Gibney (TAXI TO THE DARK SIDE). Committed to bringing artists and our nation’s leaders together, AFI DOCS will do this through Catalyst Screenings that include in-depth, expanded discussions with filmmakers, issue experts and policymakers. Launching in this 12th edition of the festival is the Filmmaker Engagement Program – professional development for documentarians.

Catalyst Screenings include THE HOMESTRETCH (DIRS Anne de Mare, Kirsten Kelly) THE INTERNET’S OWN BOY (DIR Brian Knappenberger), IVORY TOWER (DIR Andrew Rossi) and THE NEWBURGH STING (DIRS Kate Davis, David Heilbroner). The subjects of these films – homeless youth seeking an education, the state of the Internet, skyrocketing college tuition and government overreach – will be examined in panel discussions immediately after the screenings.

The Filmmaker Engagement Program will comprise events for festival artists to connect effectively to our nation’s leaders, film industry decision-makers and cultural-thought leaders. Select sessions of this program will be open to the at-large community of documentary filmmakers. Details will be announced in the coming weeks.

As mid-festival films, Spotlight Screenings include E-TEAM (DIRS Katy Chevigny and Ross Kauffman), FREEDOM SUMMER (DIR Stanley Nelson) and GLEN CAMPBELL…I’LL BE ME (DIR James Keach). Films by notable documentarians include HAPPY VALLEY (DIR Amir Bar-Lev), LAST DAYS IN VIETNAM (DIR Rory Kennedy) and POINT AND SHOOT (DIR Marshall Curry).

This year’s program also includes five films with the involvement of seven alumni of the AFI Conservatory in Los Angeles, including DINOSAUR 13 featuring Kristin Donnan Standard (AFI Class of 1988); HEAVEN ADORES YOU by Associate Producer West McDowell (AFI Class of 2010); THE LION’S MOUTH OPENS by Co-Producer Sabrina Doyle (AFI Class of 2012) and Co-Producer/Cinematographer Nick Higgins (AFI Class of 2002); WE ARE THE GIANT by Line Producer Diane Becker (AFI Class of 2006) and Archival Coordinator Erikka Yancy (AFI Class of 2006) and WHEN THE GARDEN WAS EDEN by Executive Producer Doug Ellin (AFI Class of 1992).

“AFI DOCS 2014 is a true celebration of documentaries and storytellers,” said Christine O’Malley, Interim Festival Director. “While there are serious thought-provoking issues presented artfully in the films, there are equal amounts of whimsical and entertaining experiences. What they all do, however, is inform and hopefully inspire different types of change – policy, perspective or heart.”

2014 AFI DOCS DOCUMENTARY FESTIVAL PROGRAM

OPENING AND CLOSING NIGHTS AND SPOTLIGHT SCREENINGS:
Wednesday, June 18, 2014

OPENING NIGHT: HOLBROOK/TWAIN: AN AMERICAN ODYSSEY
DIR Scott Teems. USA.
For 60 years, actor Hal Holbrook has been touring with his award-winning one-man show, “Mark Twain Tonight!,” in which he portrays the renowned American writer and satirist before sold-out crowds. Filmmaker Scott Teems takes us behind the scenes with Holbrook for an intimate peek at Twain’s continuing influence on our culture and the dedicated actor who brings him to life. Filmmaker and select talent will be in attendance for this World Premiere.
Thursday, June 19, 2014

SPOTLIGHT SCREENING: E-TEAM
DIRS Katy Chevigny, Ross Kauffman. USA.
With international conflicts raging, Human Rights Watch sends its specially trained Emergencies Team to the frontlines of Syria and Libya to document human rights abuses and capture the world’s attention. These courageous and fiercely dedicated individuals regularly risk their lives to report atrocities that would otherwise go undocumented.
Friday, June 20, 2014

SPOTLIGHT SCREENING: GLEN CAMPBELL…I’LL BE ME
DIR James Keach. USA.
Grammy® Award-winning country legend Glen Campbell has been making music for over 50 years. Having recently been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, Campbell decides to go public with the news to help bring attention to the devastating effects of the illness while hitting the road one last time for a farewell tour. Filmmaker and some subjects in attendance.
GUGGENHEIM SYMPOSIUM: The Charles Guggenheim Symposium honors the legacy of the late four-time Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Charles Guggenheim. This year, the Symposium celebrates Alex Gibney, one of the most significant documentarians of our time. His films have etched a place in American history, both as compelling independent storytelling and journalism. The Symposium will feature a series of excerpts from Gibney’s body of work and he will be joined on stage to discuss his career. His films include CATCHING HELL (2011), ENRON: THE SMARTEST GUYS IN THE ROOM (2005), MEA MAXIMA CULPA: SILENCE IN THE HOUSE OF GOD (2012), NO END IN SIGHT (2007), Academy Award®-winning TAXI TO THE DARK SIDE (2007) and WE STEAL SECRETS: THE STORY OF WIKILEAKS (2013).

OUTDOOR SCREENING: SHUT UP AND PLAY THE HITS
DIRS Will Lovelace, Dylan Southern. USA.
This captivating film documents the high-energy farewell concert of alternative band LCD Soundsystem at Madison Square Garden on April 2, 2011. Punctuated by a frank conversation with front-man James Murphy about the reasons he chose to go out on top, this is a can’t-miss for music fans.
Saturday, June 21, 2014

CLOSING NIGHT: LIFE ITSELF
DIR Steve James. USA.
Roger Ebert was one of America’s most influential film critics until his death from thyroid cancer in 2013. Based on Ebert’s 2011 memoir of the same name, acclaimed filmmaker Steve James (HOOP DREAMS) paints a vivid portrait of the critic, whose genuine love of movies helped him remain a relevant voice in the film world even after his physical voice had been silenced. Filmmaker in attendance.
Sunday, June 22, 2014

SPOTLIGHT SCREENING: FREEDOM SUMMER
DIR Stanley Nelson. USA.
In the summer of 1964, hundreds of student volunteers from across the U.S. spent 10 weeks in Mississippi in an historic effort to shatter the foundations of white supremacy. This inspiring film tells the searing story of those volatile and violent months and reminds us of the risks and sacrifices involved in ending segregation.

FEATURE FILM SELECTIONS:
112 WEDDINGS: DIR Doug Block. USA. Filmmaker Doug Block (THE KIDS GROW UP) started filming people’s wedding videos 20 years ago as a way to make extra money. Whatever became of those hopeful brides and grooms? In this funny and often touching film, Block tracks down several of them to find out if marriage was everything they dreamed it would be.
1971: DIR Johanna Hamilton. USA. In March of 1971, a break-in occurred at an FBI field office outside of Philadelphia, PA, that resulted in the theft of every single document contained within it. The true nature of what was discovered within those files would soon prove to be more shocking than the crime itself.
ACTRESS: DIR Robert Greene. USA. After landing a part on THE WIRE, actress Brandy Burre’s career was rising fast, but she gave it up for the real life role of wife and mother in upstate New York. Now, Burre is eager to find her way back into acting, but at what cost to her family?
THE AGREEMENT: DIR Karen Stokkendal Poulsen. Denmark. Some international skirmishes happen far from battlefields; they take place in quiet negotiating rooms. Yet no matter how unassuming those spaces may be, the players can be just as immovable as their armed equivalents. THE AGREEMENT takes viewers into one such discussion – the high-stakes Serbia-Kosovo negotiations to make Serbia’s EU candidacy possible. East Coast Premiere.
ALFRED & JAKOBINE: DIRS Jonathan Howells, Tom Roberts. UK/Canada. In 1955, passionate newlyweds Alfred and Jakobine bought a beat-up old taxi cab and embarked on a memorable trip around the world. When Alfred abruptly left the marriage, it left Jakobine heartbroken. Forty years later, Alfred decides to restore their old taxi and deliver it to Jakobine as a surprise. U.S. Premiere.
ALIVE INSIDE: A STORY OF MUSIC & MEMORY: DIR Michael Rossato-Bennett. USA. Millions of elderly Americans suffer from the debilitating effects of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. In this moving film, social worker Dan Cohen experiments with a music-based program to help these patients unlock deeply buried memories and emotions that had long been forgotten. The results will astound you.
AN HONEST LIAR: DIRS Justin Weinstein, Tyler Measom. USA. James “The Amazing” Randi has been mastering the art of illusion and sleight of hand to entertain audiences for over half a century. When he sees magicians’ tricks of the trade being used by con artists like faith healers and psychics to bilk the masses, however, Randi dedicates himself to exposing them.
APOLLONIAN STORY: DIRS Ilan Moskovitch, Dan Bronfield. Israel. For over 40 years, Nissim has been chipping away at a seaside limestone cliff just north of Tel Aviv. Though continually under construction, the intricate home he has built for himself is truly incredible. When his son comes to help for the summer, eccentricities arise that surely predate his work of passion.
ART AND CRAFT: DIRS Sam Cullman, Jennifer Grausman; co-directed by Mark Becker. USA. For 30 years, Mark Landis, one of the most skilled art forgers in U.S. history, has used his astonishing talent to duplicate the work of famous artists and dupe museum curators nationwide. Diagnosed with schizophrenia, this eccentric forger isn’t in it for the money – he prefers to donate his work.
BACK ON BOARD: DIR Cheryl Furjanic. USA. In 1988, Greg Louganis became the first male athlete in history to sweep the diving events in consecutive Olympic games. Despite his success, Louganis’ real challenges were still to come. Director Cheryl Furjanic’s (SYNC OR SWIM) film gives us an intimate glimpse into the life of one of the world’s greatest champions. World Premiere.
BRONX OBAMA: DIR Ryan Murdock. USA. Louis Ortiz was an unemployed single father from the Bronx in 2008 when people noticed that he bore an uncanny resemblance to presidential hopeful Barack Obama. With Obama’s victory, Ortiz transformed himself into a professional lookalike, joined a motley group of political impersonators and began to chase an unlikely version of the American dream.
BUTTERFLY GIRL: DIR Cary Bell. USA. Abbie Evans’ coming-of-age struggle is complicated by a rare life-threatening skin disorder, epidermolysis bullosa, which makes her body as fragile as butterfly wings. Alternately snarky and self-deprecating, optimistic and reckless, Evans is ready to assert her independence and break free from her stalwart parents in this unsentimental yet moving portrait.
DANGEROUS ACTS STARRING THE UNSTABLE ELEMENTS OF BELARUS: DIR Madeleine Sackler. USA. Go behind the scenes of the Belarus Free Theatre, an award-winning troupe of underground performers who dare to tackle dangerous topics that can easily put them behind bars. In the midst of an unstable political climate, these brave performers are constantly torn between fighting artistic censorship and worrying about their families’ safety.
DINOSAUR 13: DIR Todd Miller. USA. In 1990, a team of scientists from South Dakota’s Black Hills Institute stumbled onto a spectacular discovery – the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex specimen ever found. Nicknamed “Sue,” the T. rex soon became the center of a messy custody battle involving landowners and the federal government. East Coast Premiere.
DIOR AND I: DIR Frédéric Tcheng. France. Much is afoot in the iconic House of Dior, as newly hired artistic director Raf Simons has only eight weeks to present his first haute couture collection. The unconventional Simons collaborates with Dior’s unflagging and enchanting veteran atelier seamstresses, marking the auspicious arrival of a formidable fashion persona.
THE DOG: DIRS Allison Berg, Frank Keraudren. USA. Based on true events, the classic film DOG DAY AFTERNOON tells the story of a bank robbery gone awry. Combining present-day interviews and archival footage, THE DOG introduces us to John Wojtowicz – the real-life inspiration for Al Pacino’s character – while presenting a fascinating snapshot of New York City’s LGBT liberation movement of the 1970s. East Coast Premiere.
THE FIX: DIR Laura Naylor. USA. After years of heroin addiction, a young father from the Bronx tries to turn his life around. With the support of former junkies in his community, he works towards creating effective solutions to help empower those fighting the deadly grasp of drug addiction.
THE HAND THAT FEEDS: DIRS Rachel Lears, Robin Blotnick. USA. This inspiring film focuses on a group of employees at a popular New York City eatery, many of whom are undocumented and vulnerable to being exploited. When they stand up to management to fight for better wages and working conditions, they learn how to empower themselves and emerge as leaders.
HAPPY VALLEY: DIR Amir Bar-Lev. USA. During the Penn State scandal, the media focused on the accused and the university. They missed the private tragedies – the community questioning its perceived identity, the Paternos watching their reputation slide and Jerry Sandusky’s adopted son losing his family. Bridging the public and private dramas, HAPPY VALLEY reexamines the scandal and its aftermath.
HEAVEN ADORES YOU: DIR Nickolas Rossi. USA. When singer/songwriter Elliott Smith died in 2003, it devastated the indie rock community. Smith, best known for the Academy Award®-nominated song, “Miss Misery,” was a trailblazer for Portland’s indie scene in the ’90s. Through interviews with friends and archival footage, Nickolas Rossi’s film proves a heartfelt tribute to Smith’s legacy and music. East Coast Premiere.
THE HOMESTRETCH: DIRS Anne de Mare, Kirsten Kelly. USA. High school can be tough under any circumstances, but what if there is the added burden of having no consistent place to call home? This powerful film follows three homeless teens – Kasey, Anthony and Roque – as they share their struggles and victories while navigating their way through the Chicago Public School system. U.S. Premiere. Catalyst Screening.
HOW I GOT OVER: DIR Nicole Boxer. USA. Fifteen formerly homeless women in the Washington, DC, area come together to share their harrowing life stories, bravely setting out on the path to addiction recovery. Collaborating on an original play that they will perform at the Kennedy Center, these strong and courageous women tap into artistic talents they never knew they had. World Premiere.
I AM BIG BIRD: THE CAROLL SPINNEY STORY: DIRS Chad Walker, Dave LaMattina. USA. Big Bird has been an iconic and beloved figure to all since SESAME STREET first aired in 1969. But who is the man in the Big Bird suit? This delightful film tells the story of Caroll Spinney, the amiable Muppeteer who has filled Big Bird’s huge orange feet for over 40 years. U.S. Premiere.
THE INTERNET’S OWN BOY: DIR Brian Knappenberger. USA. At 13, Aaron Swartz co-authored the Web’s RSS format. His passion to liberate information ended tragically when a disconsolate Swartz killed himself at 26 while facing federal charges regarding his attempt to replicate a proprietary database. Swartz’s inspiring life saga celebrates extraordinary accomplishment and laments the stinging absence of an unswerving visionary. East Coast Premiere. Catalyst Screening.
IVORY TOWER: DIR Andrew Rossi. USA. Over the past 30 years, the cost of higher education has increased at an alarming rate along with the mounting burden of student loan debt needed to fund a traditional college experience. Filmmaker Andrew Rossi (PAGE ONE: INSIDE THE NEW YORK TIMES) probes the future of higher education and investigates alternatives to the traditional four-year university. Catalyst Screening.
KEEP ON KEEPIN’ ON: DIR Alan Hicks. USA. Jazz trumpet legend Clark Terry has performed with such greats as Count Basie and Duke Ellington and acted as mentor to Miles Davis and Quincy Jones. When he meets blind piano prodigy Justin Kauflin, Terry works with him to pass on some of his musical gift and help Kauflin find his own voice.
LAST DAYS IN VIETNAM: DIR Rory Kennedy. USA. As the war in Vietnam draws to its inevitable close, the North Vietnamese army swiftly rolls toward Saigon. At the city’s U.S. Embassy, a small but dedicated crew of Americans must make some hard decisions in its attempts to protect the South Vietnamese allies it has been told to leave behind.
MISCONCEPTION: DIR Jessica Yu. USA. From Academy Award®-winning filmmaker Jessica Yu (BREATHING LESSON: THE LIFE AND WORK OF MARK O’BRIEN) comes this intriguing look at the attitudes surrounding population growth in different areas of the world. Tied together by the fascinating observations of statistics expert Hans Rosling, the film follows three individuals who have a personal stake in population growth within their homelands.
MUDBLOODS: DIR Farzad Sangari. USA. In the whimsical world of her wildly successful Harry Potter books, author J. K. Rowling invented the thrilling – but imaginary – sport of Quidditch. With Potter fans reaching adulthood, Quidditch has turned into a real sport that has taken college campuses by storm thanks to some creative minds and entrepreneurial spirit. World Premiere.
THE NEWBURGH STING: DIRS Kate Davis, David Heilbroner. USA. In 2009, the FBI uncovered a Muslim terror cell plotting to attack a synagogue and U.S. military aircraft. Closer analysis, including FBI hidden-camera footage, raises substantive doubts: Were these four men tenacious terrorists or merely hapless targets of entrapment caught up in a post-9/11 hunt for “red meat” to mollify a traumatized nation? Catalyst Screening.
THE OVERNIGHTERS: DIR Jesse Moss. USA. Each day busloads of men arrive in the towns of North Dakota in search of jobs. They find scarce housing, employment hassles and a hostile citizenry. Trying to practice the compassion he preaches, Jay Reinke uses his church as a home for these men while his parishioners and neighbors grow frustrated with him.
POINT AND SHOOT: DIR Marshall Curry. USA. Matthew VanDyke, a young man from the suburbs of Baltimore, dreamed about a life of adventure that seemed outside his grasp. When VanDyke decided to turn his fantasies into reality, he soon found his life heading toward a winding path that led to the front lines of the 2011 Libyan Revolution.
THE POSSIBILITIES ARE ENDLESS: DIRS Edward Lovelace, James Hall. UK. In 2005, gifted Scottish musician Edwyn Collins suffered two devastating cerebral hemorrhages that left him with large gaps in his memory and trouble with the most basic language. This inventive film artfully puts the viewer inside Collins’ experience as he fights back from the brink of death. East Coast Premiere.
THE SEARCH FOR GENERAL TSO: DIR Ian Cheney. USA. One of the most popular dishes in Chinese restaurants in America is the deep fried, slightly spicy dish known as General Tso’s chicken. But who exactly is General Tso, and why is this menu item named after him? Filmmaker Ian Cheney (THE CITY DARK) takes us on a mouth-watering journey to the root of this amusing mystery.
SILENCED: DIR James Spione. USA. The term “whistleblower” is usually attached to controversy, and those who expose misconduct within an organization often stand to lose everything. This film looks at the post-9/11 crackdown on those who attempt to lift the veil on U.S. national security practices and the devastating costs that come with telling the truth.
SLAYING THE BADGER: DIR John Dower. USA. Greg LeMond was the first American to win the prestigious Tour de France. This engaging story looks back at the 1986 Tour in which LeMond went neck and neck with teammate, mentor and fierce competitor Bernard Hinault – nicknamed “The Badger” – whose promise to help LeMond win was abandoned in the heat of competition.
SLINGSHOT: DIR Paul Lazarus. USA. Dean Kamen invented the Segway and lives in a house with secret passages and a heliport. His latest passion is the SlingShot water purification system created to obliterate half of human illness. Kamen reminisces about accepting dyslexia, foregoing parenthood and losing his brother to cancer, while lamenting he has only one lifetime for inventing.
SOFT VENGEANCE: ALBIE SACHS AND THE NEW SOUTH AFRICA: DIR Abby Ginzberg. USA/ South Africa. In 1955, the People’s Congress declared, “South Africa belongs to all who live in it.” SOFT VENGEANCE focuses on Albie Sachs, a leading member of the National Conference in South Africa who was forced into exile for many years. The film recounts Sachs’ story through personal interviews and historical footage.
THE SPECIAL NEED: DIR Carlo Zoratti. Italy/Germany. Enea is in his late twenties and longs to experience the pleasures of a sexual relationship. However, the challenges of autism make finding the right mate difficult. In this sensitive and charming film, Enea enlists the help of his two closest friends and embarks on a road trip to seek help from sex workers. East Coast Premiere.
THE SUPREME PRICE: DIR Joanna Lipper. USA/Nigeria. In 1993, Nigeria elected MKO Abiola as president, ending the reign of military leadership. Shortly after the presidential election, Abiola was imprisoned and his wife, Kudirat, became the leader of the Nigerian pro-democracy movement. THE SUPREME PRICE weaves the past and the present of the Abiola family through the eyes of their daughter, Hafsat Abiola.
UKRAINE IS NOT A BROTHEL: DIR Kitty Green. Australia/Ukraine. Ukraine’s feminist group FEMEN creates quite a stir when the women demonstrate topless across European borders to protest against the patriarchal regime in their native country. As the protests gain international attention, however, questions grow as to who is the real driving force behind these outspoken women and their campaign for change.
VIRUNGA: DIR Orlando von Einsiedel. USA. In the DRC exists Africa’s oldest national park containing the last natural habitat for endangered mountain gorillas. As civil unrest grows within the Congo, a British oil company pursues efforts to drill within the park. VIRUNGA highlights the small number of dedicated individuals fighting to secure the park’s borders.
WE ARE THE GIANT: DIR Greg Barker. USA/UK. The recent Arab Spring uprisings were often organized by young people who embraced the tools of social media to communicate and call for lasting change within their governments. This powerful and inspiring film talks to some of these young activists to discover what drives them forward despite great personal risk. East Coast Premiere.
WHEN THE GARDEN WAS EDEN: DIR Michael Rapaport. USA. The time was the late 1960s and the “Garden” was Madison Square Garden in this fond look back at the New York Knicks basketball team, which meant little to New Yorkers at the time. But with new coaching and a band of talented players with personality, the team turned the sport around for the city.
WHITEY: UNITED STATES V. JAMES J. BULGER: DIR Joe Berlinger. USA. For decades, legendary gangster James “Whitey” Bulger ruled South Boston with seemingly free reign. After spending 16 years in hiding, however, Bulger is finally put on trial to answer for his crimes. AFI DOCS 2012 Guggenheim honoree and acclaimed filmmaker Joe Berlinger (PARADISE LOST Trilogy) sheds new light on Bulger’s notorious history amid allegations of deep corruption within law enforcement.

SHORT FILM SELECTIONS:
21 DAYS: DIR Damian Kocur. Poland. When a shy, young bus driver becomes desperate to find his soul mate, he takes a 21-day seminar on how to successfully interact with women and applies himself with vigor to his training. But will he acquire the skills and confidence he needs to win the woman of his dreams?
A PARADISE: DIR Jayisha Patel. UK/Cuba. Director Jayisha Patel (ADENTRO) travels to Granma, Cuba, where she encounters a family mourning the loss of their 12-year-old son. This young boy, like many others in this small village, committed suicide. A PARADISE follows several families as they grieve for their loved ones and ponder who is at fault in these tragic deaths.
A PLACE CALLED PLUTO: DIR Steve James. USA. Acclaimed director Steve James (HOOP DREAMS) looks at one family’s journey facing Alzheimer’s disease in this lovely, personal film. When a lifelong newspaper reporter is diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s, he decides to face its challenges head on, armed with the strength of his family’s support and his skills as a journalist.
AMANDA F***ING PALMER ON THE ROCKS: DIR Ondi Timoner. USA. Punk cabaret icon and former Dresden Doll co-founder Amanda Palmer is a woman who knows how to make an impact. As she prepares to perform at the famed Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado, the fearless Palmer opens up about her life, career and dedication to thinking outside the box.
BEYOND RECOGNITION: DIR Sam Thonis. USA. After a brutal attack left her with devastating chemical burns all over her body, a woman undergoes a highly experimental face transplant. Receiving the visage of an anonymous donor whose life was cut short, she has a profound experience when she meets the daughter of the woman who gave her a second chance at life.
CHERRY POP: THE STORY OF THE WORLD’S FANCIEST CAT: DIR Kareem Tabsch. USA. Cherry Pop was no ordinary cat. Beloved by her wealthy socialite owners, she lived life in the lap of luxury. Her taste for filet mignon and the comfort of Rolls-Royces made Cherry Pop a celebrity before her death in 1995. This delightful story will tickle your funny bone and touch your heart.
THE CHILEAN ELVIS: DIR Marcelo Kiwi. Chile. Marcelo Rossi has spent the better part of his life being an Elvis Presley impersonator in Chile, and at 78 years old, he shows no signs of slowing down. This charming film shines a spotlight on one man dedicated to keeping the King’s spirit alive in Chile for as long as possible.
FAST ICE: RESCUE FROM ANTARCTICA: DIR Laurence Topham. UK. In a matter of only a few hours last Christmas Eve, 52 passengers on the MV Akademik Shokalskiy became trapped in a vast sea of “summertime” Antarctic ice. As approaching icebergs threatened, first one and then a second rescue ship failed to reach the stricken vessel, leaving one option – evacuation by helicopter.
FONT MEN: DIRS Dress Code. USA. Go behind the scenes with two typeface geniuses and former business competitors who have joined forces to take the world of fonts by storm. Quirky and brilliant, there is far more to the art of font design than meets the eye. You will never look at Times New Roman the same way again!
FOUNDRY: DIR Oliver Cheetham. UK. A small, family-run foundry in Normandy accepts its biggest project ever: replacing 36 tons of hand-cast bells that hang in the tower of Paris’ Notre Dame Cathedral. Ancient materials, including horse dung and goat hair, are blended with modern technology to accomplish this endeavor with great pride and master craftsmanship.
THE HOME TEAM: DIR Joshua Seftel. USA. Heart is the X-factor that propels the Murray State Racers basketball team to successfully compete against its rivals. Spending a few minutes with these players and fans in their bucolic town will make you reconsider what it means to be a college athlete and discover the true meaning of “team.”
JOANNA: DIR Aneta Kopacz. Poland. Joanna is a young woman living in Poland with her husband and adolescent son. She has three months to live, having been diagnosed with an untreatable form of cancer. Now she must prepare her family for life without her as her time draws to a close.
THE LION’S MOUTH OPENS: DIR Lucy Walker. USA. With the support of her friends and family, a young woman waits to find out if she carries the gene for Huntington’s disease, an inherited disorder that causes the progressive breakdown of nerve cells in the brain. This emotional and deeply personal film from Academy Award®-nominated filmmaker Lucy Walker (WASTE LAND) resonates with warmth and sensitivity.
LOUIS THE FERRIS WHEEL KID: DIR Tara Fallaux. Netherlands. Louis has only known the carnival life. He and his family travel across Europe from fairground to fairground with their Ferris wheel. When he is older, Louis must move away from his family and attend high school. This moving short examines a unique family unit and the undeniable love between two brothers.
MI HUA GAO (OR THE CHINESE RICE KRISPIES SQUARE): DIR Xavier-Justin Nagy. USA. On a busy street in the small town of Gaogiao, China, cars, pedestrians and mopeds rush past as a humble man cooks on the side of the road. What could his delicious concoction be? It is none other than a traditional Rice Krispies square. Watch as he prepares and crafts this tasty treat!
OF MANY: DIR Linda G. Mills. USA. Directed by Linda G. Mills (AUF WIEDERSEHEN: ‘TIL WE MEET AGAIN) and executive produced by Chelsea Clinton, OF MANY examines the remarkable friendship between a rabbi and an imam who seek to create more unity among young people of different religious backgrounds. Their relationship is an inspiring example of the transformative power of understanding.
OUR CURSE: DIR Tomasz Sliwinski. Poland. Brutal yet hopeful, OUR CURSE captures the day-to-day process of taking care of a newborn with a critical illness. In their testimonials, the director and his wife talk through the various future challenges that run through a parent’s mind under these circumstances, and build each other’s strength to face them head on.
THE PHOTO MAN: DIR Ben Kitnick. USA. Strewn throughout the bins that fill Mark Kologi’s stand in a Southern California market are found pictures for sale of strangers on vacation, posing for family photographs and caught in candid moments. These glances into their lives make for a fertile form of people-watching across the decades.
RONALD: DIR John Dower. UK. Joe Maggard has been many things in his career: deputy sheriff, actor and official Ronald McDonald mascot for the famed McDonald’s hamburger chain. Join Maggard as he dons his iconic clown suit, visits a local carnival and waxes philosophic on everything from the nature of luck to the childhood obesity epidemic.
SATI: DIR Bartlomiej Swiderski. Poland. Through candid, emotionally raw interviews with Olga, the widow of mountaineer Piotr Morawski shortly after his fatal climbing accident, SATI documents devastating grief, but also the complicated emotions of anger at his recklessness, relief that her fear for Piotr is finished and anticipation of the possibilities of a future previously unplanned.
THE SECRET WORLD OF FOLEY: DIR Daniel Jewel. UK. Behind every movie lies the soundtrack. Foley artists bring that soundtrack to life, recording sound effects in time with the picture. Go backstage as two highly skilled Foley artists re-create life in a small fishing village for the big screen. You will never listen to movies the same way again.
SHOWFOLK: DIR Ned McNeilage. USA. The Motion Picture & Television Fund retirement community in Los Angeles is no ordinary place. Dedicated exclusively to retirees from the entertainment industry, this special community full of colorful show business veterans is cheerfully devoted to the old adage, “The show must go on!”
THE VISIT: DIR Matej Bobrik. Poland. In a lush Polish forest stands a nursing home. Each week, the residents wait for Sunday, which is the only day when they are allowed visits from family, friends and loved ones. We quietly observe the residents preparing themselves for these anticipated arrivals, only to watch the hours pass by in lonely anticipation.
WHAT’S AN EPI?: DIR Shelly Ortiz. USA. Eighteen-year-old Shelly Ortiz was one of 16 young filmmakers chosen to be recognized in the first-ever White House Student Film Festival held in 2014. In this eloquent short, Ortiz turns the camera on her father, Epi Ortiz, who shares the emotional story of his unstable upbringing in Brooklyn. Having lived through the pain of having a mother with substance abuse problems, Ortiz learns to break the cycle and start healing the wounds of abandonment.
WILD BOAR: DIR Willem Baptist. Netherlands. A village in the Netherlands finds itself inundated by a steady stream of wild boars, leaving several of the village’s inhabitants to find their own unique ways to deal with the problem. Director Willem Baptist’s (I’M NEVER AFRAID!) film is an otherworldly and poetic look at the classic conflict of Man vs. Nature.
THE WORLD OF ADRIEN: DIR Katerine Giguère. Canada. Adrien is a precocious young boy with impressive artistic talent and creativity. Over the course of several years, we watch the delightful child explore his colorful world as Adrien considers what he may want to do with his life when he grows up.
YOU WON’T REGRET THAT TATTOO: DIR Angie Bird. Canada. It’s an ancient art form, yet recently a social stigma surrounding tattoos has developed. Many associate body art with delinquent or roughneck behavior, but each tattoo has its own tale. This film elegantly profiles people of varying ages as they mesmerize us with the fascinating, sometimes heartbreaking stories behind their ink.

Film stills and festival shots are available for press use only and can be downloaded from http://afidocspress.AFI.com.

AWARDS:
Audience Awards will be bestowed upon films based on the results of ballots cast by festival attendees after theater screenings. The winners of the Audience Awards for Best Feature and Short will be announced on Monday, June 23, 2014.

SPONSORS:
Official Sponsors: American Airlines, Corporation for Public Broadcasting, Stella Artois
Major Sponsors: Amtrak, CYM Media & Entertainment, The DC Office of Motion Picture and Television Development, Indie DCP, Maryland Film Office
Featured Sponsor: Sony
Supporting Sponsors: Clyde’s Restaurant Group, Downtown Silver Spring, Greater Silver Spring Chamber of Commerce, International Documentary Association, Mercury, Uber, Video Labs
Major Media Sponsor: The Washington Post
Official Media Sponsors: Variety, The Wall Street Journal, WHUT Howard University Television
Affiliate Media Sponsors: IndieFlix, Indiewire, Sunnylands, WAMU 88.5 – American University Radio, WTOP, YELP
Official Airline of the American Film Institute: American Airlines
Official Hotels of AFI DOCS: Hotel George, Hotel Monaco

Generous individual and foundation support is provided by:

Official Festival Underwriters: Stephanie and Hunter Hunt
Major Festival Underwriters: Embrey Family Foundation, The Fledgling Fund
Festival Underwriters: Tod and Sally MacKenzie, Nell Minow

About AFI DOCS
AFI DOCS is the American Film Institute’s annual documentary festival in the Washington, DC, area. Presenting the year’s best documentaries, AFI DOCS is the only festival in the U.S. dedicated to screenings and events that connect audiences, filmmakers and policy leaders in the seat of our nation’s government. The AFI DOCS advisory board includes Ken Burns, Davis Guggenheim, Chris Hegedus, Werner Herzog, Barbara Kopple, Spike Lee, Albert Maysles, Errol Morris, D A Pennebaker and Frederick Wiseman. Now in its 12th year, the festival will be held June 18-22, 2014 in landmark Washington, DC, venues and the historic AFI Silver Theatre in Silver Spring, MD. Visit AFI.com/AFIDOCS and connect on twitter.com/AFIDOCS, facebook.com/AFIDOCS and youtube.com/AFI.

About the American Film Institute
The American Film Institute, founded in the White House Rose Garden in 1965, is an educational arts organization committed to excellence in film. AFI is America’s promise to preserve the history of the motion picture, to honor the artists and their work and to educate the next generation of storytellers. AFI programs include the AFI Catalog of Feature Films and AFI Archive, which preserve film heritage for future generations; the AFI Life Achievement Award – the highest honor for a career in film – now in its 42nd year; AFI Awards, honoring the most outstanding motion pictures and television programs of the year; AFI’s 100 Years…100 Movies television events and movie reference lists; year-round exhibition through AFI Fest presented by Audi, AFI Docs and the AFI Silver Theatre; and educating the next generation of storytellers at the world renowned AFI Conservatory.

Press Release: “Tosca’s Kiss” to have Restoration and Re-Release

Dustin Hoffman presents TOSCA’S KISS 30th Anniversary Restoration and Re-Release; Beloved Music Film Inspired Hoffman’s Quartet

New Trailer Exclusive Premiere at Thompson on Hollywood

May 21, New York: Icarus Films today announced that Dustin Hoffman, two-time Academy Award-winning actor and director, will present the new 30th anniversary restoration and re-release of Tosca’s Kiss, the beloved music documentary directed by Daniel Schmid which inspired Hoffman’s directorial debut, Quartet.

Dustin Hoffman’s performances in films including Midnight Cowboy, Rain Man, Kramer vs. Kramer, Tootsie and The Graduate have shaped the course of film history. In 2012, Hoffman made his directorial debut with the acclaimed film Quartet, starring Dame Maggie Smith, Tom Courtenay, Billy Connolly, Pauline Collins and Michael Gambon as the lively elderly residents of home for retired musicians. Quartet made $60 million at the box-office, and Hoffman cites Tosca’s Kiss as his film’s inspiration.

Described by composer Giuseppe Verdi as his “finest work,” the Casa Verdi, the world’s first home for retired opera musicians, was founded in 1896 and still stands today on the Piazza Buonarotti in Milan, Italy. In Tosca’s Kiss, the Swiss director Daniel Schmid (1941-2006), a friend and colleague of German filmmaker Rainer Werner Fassbinder and an accomplished director in his own right, captures a world in which wonderful characters re-live their triumphant roles of the glorious past. Tosca’s Kiss is a touching and often humorous film about love, aging and the capacity of music to inspire.

A favorite among opera and music lovers worldwide, Tosca’s Kiss has long been out of distribution in North America. Now, it has been completely restored by the Cinémathèque Suisse under the supervision of the film’s celebrated cinematographer, Renato Berta (Au Revoir, Les Enfants). The restoration premiered at the Venice Film Festival, and is being released in the United States and Canada by Icarus Films in all markets, including DVD and digital distribution.

Press Release: Renny Harlin to Direct “Skiptrace”

RENNY HARLIN TO DIRECT ACTION COMEDY “SKIPTRACE” STARRING JACKIE CHAN AND SEANN WILLIAM SCOTT

BLOOM to Handle International Sales with Production Set to Begin this August

Los Angeles/Cannes, May 21, 2014: BLOOM announced Renny Harlin (The Legend of Hercules, Die Hard 2) will direct action buddy comedy SKIPTRACE which will commence production on August 11, 2014. Starring Jackie Chan (Rush Hour, The Karate Kid), Seann William Scott (American Pie, Role Models) and Fan Bingbing (Iron Man 3), SKIPTRACE is written by Jay Longino with revisions by Brian Gatewood & Alessandro Tanaka and Geoff Moore & David Posmentier and BenDavid Grabinski. Talent International and Dasym Entertainment will produce along with Jackie Chan, Esmond Ren, Charlie Coker, Damien Saccani and David Gerson. The film is financed by Talent International and Dasym Entertainment (a subsidiary of Dasym Investment Strategies B.V., Exclusive Media’s parent company). Alex Walton and Ken Kao’s newly launched BLOOM will handle international sales on the film.

SKIPTRACE follows a Hong Kong detective Bennie Black (Chan), who has been tracking a dangerous crime boss, Victor Wong, for over a decade. When Bennie’s beautiful young niece Bai (Fan Bingbing) gets into trouble with Wong’s crime syndicate, he comes to the rescue and must track down the only man who can help her – a fast-talking American gambler named Connor Watts (Scott) who is also on the run from the mob. The unlikely pair embarks on a hilarious adventure from the wind swept dunes of the Gobi Desert to the rocky spires of the Huangshan Mountains.

“Jackie Chan’s international presence is unparalleled, and we’re thrilled that Renny Harlin has come on board to direct this exhilarating and hilarious project,” says BLOOM’s Alex Walton. “Having Jackie, Renny and Seann involved will bring this wild script to life with the perfect blend of action and comedy.”

Jackie Chan and Fan BingBing are represented by WME. Renny Harlin is represented by UTA.

BLOOM, which recently launched at the Cannes Film Festival, is handling international sales on Sea of Treesdirected by two-time Academy Award® nominee Gus Van Sant (Good Will Hunting, Milk) and starring Academy Award® winner Matthew McConaughey (Dallas Buyers Club). In addition to the slate transitioning from Exclusive includes: John Carney’s Begin Againstarring Keira Knightley and Mark Ruffalo; A Walk Among the Tombstonesstarring Liam Neeson; Gillian Flynn’s best-selling novel Dark Places starring Charlize Theron; The Woman in Black: Angel of Death; Skiptrace starring Jackie Chan; Pele, the biopic about the legendary Brazilian soccer player; Brian Kirk’s Passengers starring Keanu Reeves; Jane Got a Gun starring Natalie Portman; Eli Roth’s The Green Inferno;Out of the Dark starring Julia Stiles and Scott Speedman; and Murder of a Catproduced by Sam Raimi.

About BLOOM
BLOOM is a new sales, production and financing outfit which was recently launched by trusted international sales executive Alex Walton and financier & producer Ken Kao. The company represents and curates a diversified slate of films ranging from commercial, talent-driven, wide release movies, to specialty films from proven and trusted filmmakers, all the while keeping an eye towards fresh and emerging talent.

Press Release: “2 Autumns, 3 Winters” Releasing on DVD

ACCLAIMED FRENCH INDIE 2 AUTUMNS, 3 WINTERS AVAILABLE ON DVD JUNE 17

Charming new romcom an homage to film, relationships and the everyday

May 22, 2014 (NY, NY) – Film Movement, the distributor of award-winning independent and foreign films, announces today that 2 AUTUMNS, 3 WINTERS, a quirky romantic comedy that celebrates both life’s most significant and simplest moments to winning effect, will be released on DVD on June 17th in North America.

The film, a Cannes Film Festival selection and critically praised selection at Rendez-vous with French Cinema earlier this year, is structured in a series of vignettes that recount 30-something Armon’s latest – and most promising – relationship. This heartfelt indie includes references to cinema’s greats – from auteur Eugene Green to modern-day favorite Judd Apatow, an homage to filmmaker Sébastien Betbeder’s many influences.

Arman is 33 and ready to make a change, starting with a run in the park. When he literally bumps into Amelie, lovely if cynical about love, he’s dead-set on making a connection with her. As a bit of contrived fate on Arman’s part brings them together, his best friend Benjamin suffers an uexpected stroke, landing him in the hospital – and the company of a charming physical therapist – for weeks. Over the course of two autumns and three winters, Arman, Amelie, Benjamin and Katya share the incidental moments, unexpected accidents, unconventional love stories and unforgettable memories that ultimately define who they are.

Making films since 2006, director Sébastien Betbeder each time explores the nuances and depths of interpersonal relationships. Of 2 Autumns, 3 Winters, a BFI London Film Festival official selection, he has said, “I wanted the narrative to be dense, to alternate between serious, critical moments in the lives of these young people, and more incidental moments that have no real impact. I wanted to talk about death and shopping at the grocery store, about love and reality TV.” Betbeder balances life’s meaningful moments alongside small incidents almost instantly forgotten, masterfully suggesting that both ultimately shape our destiny.

Available at FilmMovement.com, Amazon.com and other major retailers following a brief theatrical run in New York, 2 Autumns, 3 Winters on DVD includes short film VOYAGE D’AFFAIRES, a French film by Sean Ellis and starring Melanie Laurent (Inglorious Basterds). 2 Autumns, 3 Winters will also be available on digital platforms including Amazon Instant and Netflix.

About Film Movement:
Launched in 2003, Film Movement is a full-service North American distributor of award-winning independent and foreign films, based in New York City. Film Movement has released more than 250 feature films and shorts from 50 countries on six continents, including top prize winners from Sundance, Cannes, Venice, Toronto, Berlin, Tribeca and other prestigious festivals. Film Movement releases its films through numerous distribution channels, including thousands of art-house cinemas, universities and libraries; home video ; television outlets; Cable Video on Demand (including its very own branded cable VOD platform—Film Festival on Demand—available in over 40 million US homes); In-flight Entertainment, and broadband outlets.

Press Release: GKids Sets Release Date for “Wrinkles”

GKIDS SETS RELEASE DATE FOR “WRINKLES” OPENS JULY 4 AT NYC’S IFC CENTER FOLLOWED BY JULY 15 DVD AND DIGITAL RELEASE

*****

FILM FEATURES THE VOICES OF MARTIN SHEEN, MATTHEW MODINE and GEORGE COE

*****

New York, New York – May 22, 2014 – GKIDS, a distributor of award-winning animation for both adult and family audiences, has announced that it will release WRINKLES, an animated film for adults, on July 4 at New York’s IFC Center. The theatrical release will be followed by a July 15 DVD and digital release. WRINKLES, the Spanish animated film directed by Ignacio Ferreras and based on Paco Roca’s award-winning graphic novel, features the voices of Martin Sheen (The Amazing Spider-Man, The West Wing), Matthew Modine (The Dark Knight Rises, Full Metal Jacket) and George Coe (Archer, Kramer vs. Kramer).

WRINKLES illustrates the visual beauty and tender emotion that can be created by traditional animation, as it tackles a universal subject matter with humor and acerbic wit. The story opens with former bank manager Emilio being dispatched to a retirement home by his family. His new roommate is a wily, wheeler-dealer named Miguel, who cheerfully swindles small amounts of cash from the more befuddled residents but is also full of handy insider tips that are crucial to survival. Like One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest in an old folks home, we are introduced to daily pill regimens, electric gates, and an eccentric cast of characters who rebel against institutional authority, while doing everything in their power to avoid being assigned to the dreaded top floor assisted living wing – a dwelling place for lost souls from which there is no return. The hand-drawn animation style allows the film to move freely between the reality-bound daily lives of the ‘inmates’ and their more colorful dementia-induced fantasies, leaving plenty of room for both tears and laughter and pulling no punches in its critique of society’s attitude towards the elderly.

ABOUT GKIDS
GKIDS is a distributor of award-winning filmed entertainment specializing in feature animation for both adult and family audiences. The company has scored four Best Animated Feature Oscar nominations – the most for an independent distributor – with The Secret of Kells in 2010, A Cat in Paris and Chico & Rita in 2012, and Ernest & Celestine in 2014. Current and upcoming releases include Ernest & Celestine, featuring Forrest Whitaker, Mackenzie Foy, Lauren Bacall, Paul Giamatti, William H. Macy, Megan Mullally, Nick Offerman, and Jeffrey Wright, and Ignacio Ferreras’ Wrinkles, featuring Martin Sheen, Matthew Modine and George Coe. GKIDS also handles North American theatrical distribution for the Studio Ghibli library of films, one of the world’s most coveted animation collections with titles Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, Princess Mononoke and others. GKIDS is longtime producer of the New York Int’l Children’s Film Festival, an Oscar-qualifying event and North America’s largest festival of film for children and teens. NYICFF jury members include Uma Thurman, Susan Sarandon, Geena Davis, Gus van Sant, Christine Vachon, Henry Selick and James Schamus.

Press Release: Saban Films Acquires North American Rights to “The Homesman”

SABAN FILMS ACQUIRES NORTH AMERICAN RIGHTS TO ACADEMY AWARD® WINNER TOMMY LEE JONES’ “THE HOMESMAN”

New Banner Aggressively Sweeps Up Rights to Buzz-Worthy

Cannes Competition Title to Mark First Acquisition

CANNES – May 22, 2014 – Haim Saban announced today that after launching Saban Films last week the company has acquired North American distribution rights to Academy Award® winner Tommy Lee Jones’ THE HOMESMAN, starring Jones and Academy Award® winner Hilary Swank, with a supporting cast featuring Grace Gummer, Miranda Otto, Sonja Richter, Academy Award® nominee Hailee Steinfeld, James Spader and Academy Award® winner Meryl Streep.

The new venture, which is headed by President Bill Bromiley, came to Cannes with an aggressive acquisitions strategy and targeted the highly-regarded competition title, finalizing negotiations with majority owner of the North American rights, Brian Kennedy. EuropaCorp is the international distributor of the picture. This is the first acquisition for Saban Films and the second collaboration between Bromiley, Tommy Lee Jones and Michael Fitzgerald following 2008’s In the Electric Mist.

THE HOMESMAN, which premiered Sunday, May 18th in competition in Cannes, is a Tommy Lee Jones/Michael Fitzgerald production, directed by Tommy Lee Jones and produced by Peter Brant, Brian Kennedy and Luc Besson. The screenplay was written by Jones, Kieran Fitzgerald and Wesley A. Oliver, based on the novel by Glendon Swarthout.

Saban Films is planning a 2014 theatrical release.

Haim Saban said: “We are honored to have such a prestigious and beautifully crafted film as the first project to launch Saban Films.” Adam Chesnoff, President and COO of Saban Capital Group continued: “THE HOMESMAN is the perfect example of the quality, high-caliber slate of projects we aim to build.”

Tommy Lee Jones said: “I am delighted that Saban Films has chosen ‘The Homesman’ to begin their venture into film release. Our company has full confidence in Saban Films and I sincerely hope we will serve them well.”

Bromiley adds: “We are really looking forward to working with Michael and Tommy once again and developing a creative and dynamic release campaign to bring this extraordinary movie to US and Canadian audiences.”

Representing the film in the sale to Saban Films was CAA and Scott Edel of Loeb & Loeb. Bill Bromiley, Ness Saban and Niveen Tadros, EVP & General Counsel, negotiated the acquisition on behalf of Saban Films.

Saban Films
Saban Films, an affiliate of Saban Capital Group, is a film acquisition and distribution company which acquires high-quality, feature films to distribute in North America. Focusing on commercial, talent driven films, the company looks at projects in all stages of production for release across multiple platforms, including a day and date theatrical/VOD release strategy. Based in Los Angeles, Saban Films was established by Haim Saban, and is led by Bill Bromiley who serves as president, Shanan Becker, Chief Financial Officer and Ness Saban, Director of Business Development.

Press Release: “Burning Bush” To Debut at Film Forum

Film To Debut Theatrically at Film Forum in New York City

New York, NY (May 23, 2014) – Kino Lorber is proud to announce the US theatrical release of BURNING BUSH, an ambitious cinematic recreation of widespread protests in Czechoslovakia (and their aftermath) against the country’s Soviet military occupation in the late 60s. The film will make its commercial theatrical debut at New York’s Film Forum on Wednesday, June 11, before expanding to other theatrical markets throughout the summer.

Directed by acclaimed Polish director Agnieszka Holland (Europa, Europa), who was a student at the FAMU film school in Prague during this tumultuous period, this original HBO Europe production had its New York premiere at the 2003 edition of the New York Film Festival, after also screening at last year’s Telluride and Toronto film festivals.

With a focus on a young man’s ultimate sacrifice (history student Jan Palach committed suicide by self-immolation, as a form of political protest) and on the state’s attempt to defame him, BURNING BUSH offers a stirring and multi-faceted picture of a pivotal moment in Eastern European history – and the events which set the stage for the defeat of Communism 20 years later.

Through the story of defense attorney Dagmar Burešová, who defended Palach’s legacy in a doomed lawsuit, the film examines the transformations taking place in Czechoslovak society after the invasion of the armies of the Warsaw Pact in August of 1968 and the installation of a hardline Communist government.

Moreover, BURNING BUSH depicts the beginnings of Czech and Slovak resistance against the occupation, which reached its apex with the mass protests during Palach’s funeral – also showing the nation’s gradual resignation under the pressure of fear and harsher persecution.

Long acclaimed for her politically engaged work as a director and screenwriter, Agnieszka Holland emerged from the Polish New Wave of the 1970s and ’80s after working on scripts with fellow Polish director Andrzej Wajda. Her films have been nominated for three Academy Awards: EUROPA, EUROPA (1990) was nominated for Best Screenplay (and won the Golden Globe for Best Foreign Film), and ANGRY HARVEST (1985) and IN DARKNESS (2011) were nominated for Best Foreign Language Film.

She has directed episodes of the acclaimed television series The Killing, Treme, and The Wire, making her a natural choice for the Czech production and writing team for their HBO Europe production of Burning Bush. She recently completed the NBC miniseries, Rosemary’s Baby.