Two film recommendations
Without saying too much (that gives away plot), I want to commend two little films. The first is growing in popularity, Bella.
This is the kind of film we don't see much of in the current age of Hollywood blockbusters and studio "tent pole" mega-pics. I try to include a number of smaller, indie films as a part of my regular diet as an avid film goer. (Though these days I am more a film seer-at-home, on DVD, as the time and cost of movie-going is so bloated. Here in the San Francisco area a movie ticket can be $9.50, plus parking for two to three hours, $6-12, and I smuggle in my own snacks: water and nuts.)
Back to Bella (Italian for beautiful), it is the first time, in a long time, that I have attended the public screening of a movie, where the audience paid their way, where there was vigorous and immediate applause at the close of the film. I was clapping, through tears, along with probably 90% of those in attendance. The theater, though not huge, was nearly full--about 200 people.
Bella is a film about family, loyalty, redemption, and stepping in to assist a friend or stranger where there is a need–even if the need is to just be there and listen. When a friend, or stranger is in crisis we have all become either desensitized (I saw that TV show where the guy tried to help and got kill, too), or we have trained ourselves to over think the situation and, while we are running a cost analysis spread sheet in our brain, the opportunity to help has passed us by. "Oh, well...maybe next time." (shrug)
This would be a great evening out for a family, youth group, college or singles group, group of friends. Go early-enough to plan time after for a conversation and a bite, a sip (coffee, tea, wine...) I am a huge believer in talking about every film I see–even if I just call a friend and say WARNING: The trailer is a lie! But with Bella, there is a rich opportunity to consider a few very important issues of life that we need to run through the filter of our personal value system. Those values usually govern our behavior, even when our feelings in the moment suggest a different course of action.
• Another course of action is to see The Pixar Story –a new and fascinating documentary. Here is a thurough, behind-the-magic look at the history, developement, and philosphy of the studio that revolutionized animation. Using rare home video footage that takes us back to Disney Animation Studios, Lucas Film, and early days of Pixar we see how the current leadership began their careers, crossed paths, and perculated the ideas that became Pixar. The bulk of this very watchable and well crafted documentary was created by Leslie Iwerks. Her grand father, Ub Iwerks, worked side-by-side with Walt Disney in the earliest days of the creation of film animation. He is one of many Disney Legends that Disney Studios have honor for the landmark contribution.
Using brand new interviews, shot for this film , with Pixar Execs, John Lasseter and Ed Catmull, as well as Monsters, Inc. director, Pete Docter, as well as many other Pixarians. Also interviewed are several Disney folk, including: Roy Disney (Walt's nephew), Michael Eisner (photo: Eisner, Lasseter, Jobs), Glen Keane, Ron Clements (Aladin, Little Mermaid, and others), Don Hahn (Lion King, Hunchback of Notre Dame), and the legendary duo Frank Thomas and Ollie Johnson (two of Walt's now-famous nine old men). Of course there are interviews with George Lucas and Steve Jobs and many others.
Not just "talking heads" (although they are well lit) there are film clips, inside workings of Pixar, and more. If you have ever seen a Pixar film (from Toy Story to Ratatouille) you will be engaged by this story.
Far more than a brilliantly executed documentary, The Pixar Story is filled with inspiring and insightful moments about pursuing our creative dreams–in spite of the evidence and conventional wisdom (which often isn't.) John Lasseter's on screen comments are particularly good.
I saw this fun and fascinating film at the opening night of the San Francisco International Film Festival (11.8.7) and there is a showing next Tuesday night (12.11.7) at the Egyptian Theater in Hollywood, CA. Meanwhile, check the film's website, HERE, for a trailer and screening schedule. Watch for it on DVD–sooner rather than later.
Please, stop back by here and post a comment when you have seen either of this delicious little films.
~ McNair
P.S. Next on my movies-to-see list: August Rush and then, my most-anticipated movie of the year, Tim Burton's film version of my all-time favorite musical, Stephen Sondheim's Sweeney Todd: the Demon Barber of Fleet Street. Visit the richly designed and feature-packed website (click film title for link) if you haven't already seen one of the ubiquitous trailers on TV in recent days. Imagine John Depp in Victorian London, singing. This is a Gothic, "R" rated musical. Load the van and bring the whole family!
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