Spike Lee Shares His NYU Teaching List of 87 Essential Films Every Aspiring Director Should See | Open Culture

Spike Lee Shares His NYU Teaching List of 87 Essential Films Every Aspiring Director Should See | Open Culture

The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel

Still fabulous even the second time around. I went to see it last year and blogged about it a couple of times on my other blog. Solid gold actors, gentle challenges humorously handled. Love it!

The Failed Estate: Old Empires New Legacies

The Failed Estate: Old Empires New Legacies: Journalism isn't like any other business. And that's because journalism isn't a business at all.  The great newspaper empires ...

David Bowie Narrates Sergei Prokofiev’s Children’s Symphony Peter and the Wolf | Open Culture

David Bowie Narrates Sergei Prokofiev’s Children’s Symphony Peter and the Wolf | Open Culture

Reading June 2013

Open Culture: Beatles perform spoof of 'A Midsummer Night's Dream'

Mental

Love! Love! Love! This film is a must see for a great belly laugh. The women I went with don't want to go to the movies with me again cause I laughed too loud. There were so many hilarious moments. If you love the soundtrack from 'The Sound of Music', 'Muriel's Wedding' or Toni Collette, this is for you. Don't miss it. I als 

The Burning Man

I love Australian Film. The Burning Man is set in Sydney and is about a chef. It took me a little while to follow the plot as it moved about between present and past. I liked it though. It all made sense in the end and there were some great Aussie actors in it, such as Rachel Griffiths, a favourite of mine.

It is a story about love, loss and grief. The protagonist is a chef and there was some reality there. It is a beautiful film in lots of ways and I enjoyed it.

Reading May 2013

Mumbrella:Film Ink gets the Shining treatement

Open Culture: Revisit Martin Scorese's Hand-Drawn Storyboards for Taxi Driver

Mumbrella: Australian Films Stand on their own merit

April 2013 Reading

Open Culture: Alfred Hitchcocks Seven Minute Editing Master Class

The Blog of Author Tim Ferriss: How to Create a Viral Book Trailer or get 1 000 000 Views for Almost Anything

The Intouchables

The Intouchables is one of the funniest films I've seen in a long time. It's irreverent and uplifting and I highly recommend it. The version I watched is French with English subtitles and it was worth putting aside all distractions to watch and enjoy. This film is my favourite so far this year.

Searching for Sugarman

I listened to Rodriguez in the park on the way to school where we would stop for a sneaky smoke before school. I'd downloaded his music on my ipod and I had no idea about his story until I saw this great film. What a story!

Django Unchained

It's hard to anticipate a film you are looking forward to seeing. As a big fan of the writer/director, you can have high expectations. I totally enjoyed 'Django Unchained'. I'm too biased in favour of Tarantino to give a decent review, so here are a coupl from professionals:

The Australian: Tarantino is unrestrained
ABC: At The Movies




 

Snow White and the Huntsman

I love the retelling of faery tales. Recently I began watching the TV Series 'Once Upon a Time'. All retellings are not equal, yet the retelling continues and the story is familiar, yet with a different perspective. This is another one. Too scary for children.

Snow White and the Huntsman held a few surprises for me. One of the big improvements I saw was no stepmother relationship and no happily ever after wedding.

I am yet to see 'Mirror, Mirror', also made last year.
 

Getting Started in Filmmaking, From Beginning to End

If you’re looking to start making some films, you may already possess a lot of the things you need to get started. If you’ve got some sort of camera, a computer, and some basic video editing software then you’re probably all set. If you want to really get serious though, it’ll take some investment. Check out this list of different things you need to start making your films appear more professional.

Software

Many computers come standard with some basic video editing software. This is good if you’re interested in making low-budget films for your personal use, but if you’re serious about filmmaking then you need to upgrade to something better. Investing in a program like Final Cut Pro will let you edit things you never had the opportunity to before. With all the different kinds of effects you can use, you’ll find a program like Final Cut Pro is a great investment.

Good software will also let you edit the music and scores in your films. This is great because you can get all your free music downloads @ www.kazagold.com and edit them as you see fit. You’ll see that the things you can do with good video editing software are essentially endless. Investing in a program like Adobe After Effects will give you access to insane visual effects. You’ll be surprised at what you can create.

Camera

Surprisingly, you’ll find that you can find a great quality camera that you can use to create awesome videos for cheap. Search some local websites in your area for a used camera, but if you’re looking for a new high definition camera you’ll still be able to find one that doesn’t break your budget. Depending on what it is that you’re filming, a GoPro camera might be a good choice. GoPro cameras are very rugged and can be taken under water and through extreme conditions. There’s no need to invest in a camera that you won’t need, so choose a cheaper yet higher quality model if that’s all you need.

Marketing Tools

If you believe your film is of high enough quality that you want to share it and possibly enter it in film festivals, you’ll need tools to market it. There are lots of ways to do this, some that cost lots of money and some that are free.

First off, you should create a captivating trailer for your film using your video editing software. Make sure the trailer has information on the website for your film, which you should also create. There are plenty of websites that cater to independent filmmakers, so search around to find one that fits what you need (including your budget). After creating the trailer and your website, use social media to market your film. Create a Facebook for your film and have all of your friends “Like” the page, and encourage them to share your trailer. The more buzz you can create, the better.

Image credit: http://www.enfew.com/

*sponsored post

$9.99

This stop motion animation features many great Australian voices, Anthony LaPaglia, Ben Mendelsohn, Geoffry Rush and others. It's set in an apartment building and is like having a coffee and watching the world go by, but a bit more intense and personal. I enjoyed it.

Thunderstruck

Thunderstruck is another great Australian film. It's a road trip story about a group of young men who revive their friendship to fulfil a promise made in their youth. If you like ACDC, road trips, humour, Australian films, I would recommend it to you.


Another

I Love You Too

A romantic comedy. I laughed. Recommended.

Metro Study Guide

Review by Luke Buckmaster

Animal Kingdom

You have to watch this film. I was totally gripped by it's intensity. The characters convince.

If you want to download a study guide: Metro:Animal Kingdom

The Official Film Site Animal Kingdom

Article about AFI nominations: Luke Buckmaster

This is Australian film at its best.

Animal Kingdom

Tomorrow When the War Began

This film is thought provoking as the book was. I like John Marsdon's writing because he doesn't treat the audience to a clearly defined judgement, yet places us in predicament's through the protagonists. Reading the book with year 9 classes, the debates and discussions provoked by this story are no stranger to me. That is the value of it for teenagers (and readers in general) I believe. It asks you to question your reality or perspective of how you fit in the world.

I loved the shot of Ellie in front of the mural of the Brittish invasion of Australia. I was pleased Corrie was reading an Australian classic and the line about films not being as good as books. I've read a number of reviews since seeing the film and like my classrooms there is debate about the story. Here are a few:

Luke Buckmaster (also read the comments)

Beyond Hollywood

Phillipa Hawker

The Soloist

I loved this film. It touched me in many ways. It is a great story that reveals lots of human themes such as friendship, judgement, values, commitment and love. It gives insight into homelessness and mental health. I watched it last night and I want to see it again. The music was precious as were the characters. All of them. This film is good.

Inglourious Basterds

Image via Wikipedia

Quentin Tarantino's 'Inglourious Basterds' was enjoyable. When I purchased it the salesperson told me it wasn't very good. I like Tarantino a lot though. Some of his films are among my favourites. People I trust had enjoyed it:-)

It had that great mix of funny, shocking, surprising, amusing, bizarre and lots of action and random characters.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Carpetbagger: Directors Give 'Basterds' Some Oscar Hope (carpetbagger.blogs.nytimes.com)

Quentin Tarantino's Inglourious Basterds Motion Picture Soundtrack

Some Kind of Monster

This documentary about Metallica exceeded my expectations. I am not a big fan of their music and had no idea to be honest the size of the crowds they draw and the business value of that. 'Some Kind of Monster' is very revealing look at the band as they fall apart and come together. It shows the humanity of the band members and the dynamics of groups.

I don't enjoy heavy metal music. I find it too angry and agressive and whilst I can appreciate lyrics and performances, it's not often I would feel like listening to it.

This was one of the scenes I found quite facinating...
I really enjoyed this documentary and I believe I will appreciate Metallica more in future from getting to know a little more about them.

The Reader

'The Reader' was full of surprises for me. Films can really challenge you sometimes and this was full of challenges for me. My favourite review was from Peter Galvin on Filmink. I'm not sure what I was expecting but it was an experience to watch.

Hancock

I had no idea what Hancock was about. My partner picked it. I really enjoyed it. It's about a 'superhero' with a big publicity problem. There were some obvious things going on in it, yet the twist totally took me by surprise. I enjoyed it.

The Boat That Rocked

'The Boat That Rocked' is a film I know I will watch again. I viewed it on DVD this week and even the deleted scenes were enjoyable. It is based on an era in the late 60s when pirate radio stations brought music to the UK. It was a comedy with lots of great music and a rebellious spirit. I enjoyed it. For a variety of reviews, check out Rotten Tomatoes.

I want the The Boat that Rocked soundtrack.

Martian Child

John Cusack is great in this film. I expected more comedy, it was funny, but not in the way I expected. It was a touching story about a science fiction writer, grieving for his wife, who adopts a kid who thinks he's from Mars. A perfect match. It's also a great story that questions 'Is it good to be like everyone else?'. Just what I needed today.



There are many beautiful moments in this film. I loved it.

My Year Without Sex

An Australian film that was a total pleasure to watch and amused me for days. It's full of funny and yet touching moments. This is Sarah Watt's second feature film and I will certainly be watching everything she makes having also enjoyed her first 'Look Both Ways'. I enjoy her characters and the warmth of her exposure of every day life. Some of my favourite moments are just little moments in the film such as in the call centre when the guy on the phone is trying to convince the customer that he's in Australia. It's fully of insights into our modern lives. I highly recommend this film. The actors are great, especially Matt Day, very likeable.



A great soundtrack with some of my favourites such as The Audreys and Little Birdy tracks.

Create an Ad Competition

I am getting a few emails from various sources about competitions and rather than forward them to all the past students interested in this kind of thing, I will put them here and those interested can get them.

So the latest is to make a Doritos ad and win $20 000.

Details here.

Burn After Reading

Disappointing... I love Cohen Brothers.



Whilst it received some favourable review, one of my favourite reviewers David Denby sums up what I felt about it. Could be due to my expectations!

Twilight

If it wasn't for the young people who hang out at my house raving about this film, I probably would have waited until it came on DVD. They went to see it two nights in a row and raved about the 'Edward' character, at least the girls did... totally smitten. One of them commented that orange (fake tan) is out and white is in, so hopefully that film will be responsible for a reduction in skin cancer with this generation!

I have read the book and found it slow to begin with, but the last chapters were quite gripping. Fortunately the film concentrated mainly on the best bits of the book and I was pleasantly surprised. The natural beauty in the film was amazing. I loved the scenery, the kids were pretty typical of real kids and the film was quite convincing on some levels. The special effects left a little to be desired, but on the whole I enjoyed it.

The friend I went with hadn't read the book, yet enjoyed the film. The critics have been luke warm in their appreciation and it is after all a very teenage story. I like this quote from David Denby (The New Yorker) "A genuine love story might be difficult for a young audience to handle, but this fantasy is blissful madness—an abstinence fable sexier than sex."

Quantum of Solace

There has been a shift I believe. Quantum of Solace is about revenge and is a sequel to 'Casino Royale'. I remember seeing that film at Wollongong in a theatre that had a very filthy ceiling when Andy and I holidayed there in 2007. I enjoyed it thoroughly.

Back to this experience though, my son and I discussed how different it was and I think reviewer Noah Berlatsky from the Chicago Reader sums it all up nicely. Having said all that, it was enjoyable if not expected. By the way, really cool is Judi Dench!

Your Hearts a Mess by Gotye (Portable Film Festival animation)

The Portable Film Festival has this animation of my current favourite song 'Your Hearts a Mess'. The Portable Film Festival is a great place to watch all kinds of films from around the world.

I think Gotye is great. I just learnt that he's from Australia and in an article I read about him, he listed Kate Bush's 'Cloudbursting' in his top 10, so I think I'm a fan. Check out his blog.

August Rush

If you want to be totally transported by a modern fairytale, pick this. Sure it's a huge suspension of reality, but just the kind I love. The music connects the orphan with his talented musician parents, comparisons can be made to the Oliver Twist tale. I really enjoyed it.

I must also confess I find Jonathon Rhys Meyers quite attractive.
As with many films of this nature, critics weren't impressed, but viewers rated it higher.

A suspension of reality in the opposite direction to last night's movie. Balanced me out!

Planet Terror

I loved Deathproof and have only tonight managed to watch 'Planet Terror'. I started to watch it once, but the horror genre is not my thing and I got a bit put off by the zombies. After a conversation with my son, I had another attempt tonight. It was great. I am glad I persisted. The final scene was my favourite though. Great characters as you can expect from Rodriguez.

Marie Antoinette (2006)

Fluffy, light and delicious. Historically innacurate with a great sound track. This Kirsten Dunst film was exactly what I was in the mood for tonight. I love the colour and costume. The food and scenery were great as well. Let them eat cake indeed.

TED: James Nachtwey Prize Wish

The Wish



Watch James Nachtwey's talk on TED talks. I have to warn you though, if you are human, you will probably cry.

Hey Hey it's Esther Blueburger

This Australian film about a teenage girl is great. It is funny and sad and I really enjoyed it. Great actresses and characters I am familiar with.

The Waitress

The Waitress is another romantic comedy recommended by a bloke. There are some really funny parts to it and the romance is believable. The misery a little too real for me, however it did have divine pies in it and a happy enough ending. I liked this review, What I Watched Last Night: Waitress.

My favourite part I think was the lack of enthusiasm for the pregnancy, yet the joy at the birth. I think this is sometimes the way it is and yet it's not really an often confessed reaction.

Lars and the Real Girl

This film was recommended to me by two guys and because it's a romantic comedy and I love these men, I couldn't wait to see it. It's not every day men recommend the romantic comedy genre. I should have known there would be a blow up doll involved!

Seriously though, it is a touching story and much more than a funny love story. If only there were communities like that. People that didn't judge or become repulsed by peoples weirdness. Communities that tolerated and cared instead of medicating or ignoring others pain.

It was a beautiful story and I highly recommend it.

Run Fatboy Run

I would never have picked this DVD if it weren't for my sister's recommendation. The title didn't appeal to me at all. She dropped the names 'Hot Fuzz' and 'Shawn of the Dead' as a comparison and I couldn't resist. This romantic comedy had some very funny moments. It was a little more mainstream than the other two, but still quite funny and enjoyable.

Dennis is not as fat as the title suggests, but quite flabby in the heart muscle, yet completes a marathon to demonstrate an ability to commit to the woman he left pregnant at the altar.

My favourite review is Claudia Puig's.

Adelaide December 2007

Click to Play

Arriving in Adelaide the weekend before christmas. I wasn't expecting rain as I disembarked from the Indian Pacific.

Formats available: Microsoft Video (.avi), Flash Video (.flv)

Tags: adelaide, rain, summer, australia, trip, travel

In Bruges

This black comedy was a very hilarious watch. It is definately for a mature audience, with lots of swearing, killing, drugs and a little sex. It's funny and dark and I really found myself feeling a lot of affection for the child murderer, which is the last thing I would expect from myself. It was full of random little amusing surprises, even if predictible in it's plot at times. I'm really not even sure what it was that endeared him to me....

My favourite review is by Tasha Robinson.

There Will Be Blood

This film is great without a doubt. There are wonderful scenes and remarkable scenery and Daniel Day Lewis does a fine job. I marvelled at how the baby in the beginning scenes survived in such a polluted environment.

My favourite review is by Richard Schickel in Time. Not many negative reviews to be found on this one.

The Darjeeling Limited (2007)

In the beginning I felt this is a silly film, but not really silly enough to be truly funny most of the time. Interesting yet not totally convincing characters. I couldn't actually concentrate on it. It annoyed me some of the time. Most used word itinerary. Not one of my favourite words.
Then I was drawn in and it began to get me in. It became more interesting and plausible. Then enjoyable.

My favourite review is Roger Ebert's.

Carla Bruni - L'Amoureuse

I like this music video. French sounds great to me. I don't understand a word of it, I just like the sound of it!

Sunday at Mt Baw Baw #1

Click to Play

Visiting Mt Baw Baw with Mexican Visitors on Sunday 27th July 2008

Formats available: Microsoft Video (.avi), Flash Video (.flv)

Tags: mt, baw, australia, victoria, snow, winter, village

Before the Devil Knows You're Dead

This was a dark and facinating film. The characters, all despicable strangely sad due to their desperation. They made a bigger mess than you could see a way out of. The actors were great and the film well made. Not for the kiddies I might add.

Kate Bush Under Review

This British documentary about Kate Bush, was a series of interviews with both the artist and four 'experts' as well as partial clips of her more recognised songs. She came across in the interviews as humble and I enjoyed watching my favourite artist speak about her work over the years. I find her music endlessly facinating and moving.

This film will be shown at the MIFF again. Check the program for details. Parts of it are also available on Youtube.

Downtown Albury on a Saturday Night

Click to Play

July 2008 standing in the middle of the road in Albury looking toward the monument.

Formats available: Microsoft Video (.avi), Flash Video (.flv)

Tags: albury, main-street, cars, monument, night

I'm Not There

Todd Haynes ambitious portrait of the many lives of Bob Dylan is facinating if only for the device he has used. I enjoyed each of the characters depicted. It's worth watching. Realistically I think you would need more than 6 characters to make up the lives of anyone, yet I guess as public persona's go, this is acceptable. I enjoyed the music and the acting. Aussies Kate Blanchett and Heath Ledger take on a character each.

I recommend it.

The Painted Veil

This film was the kind of love story you can believe, complete with human frailties and errors. I want to read all W.Somerset Maugham's books now. It was so beautiful. The setting was great. It was set in China. The political and historical background was interesting. I loved the scene where the Nationalist soldier was negotiating/interpreting with the local warlord. It was clever.

I read 'The Moon and Sixpence' a couple of years ago and found it so rich in it's characters and their transformations and I found this story to be similar. They are very authentic....touching, human and moving.

I recommend this film. I totally enjoyed it.

TED: Chris Jordan: Visualising Excess

I love these kinds of visual displays. Chris Jordan makes a great pictorial display to question some of the paths Americans take. His musings could be applied equally here in Australia. I loved it. I showed it to a class on the last day of school and whilst they were working on other things - it had an impact running away in the background as it was. It stimulated some interesting discussion. Just the way I like it....

The Kite Runner

I loved the book 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini, it was a great insight into human nature and the changes that have occured in Afghanistan. The film adaptation was great. I expected it to be more visually stunning though to be honest. The scenes I was looking forward to, the Kite festival and the Pomegranate tree, were not as vivid as I had imagined them, yet isn't that always the way when you read a book and furnish it with your imagination, the film usually disappoints in some way.
It has subtitles and was in all very enjoyable. I found the book illustrated more depth in the relationships as well.

Into the Wild

I absolutely loved this film. Sean Penn did the screenplay and directed it. It's based on a true story about a young man who adventures out into the world leaving behind comforts to travel and survive on his own smarts. It's a beautiful film, revealing natural and human treasures.
'Into the Wild' tells the story of my favourite kind of people. Self sufficient adventurers, I find very attractive. I highly recommend it.

Sex and the City

Went to see 'Sex and the City' tonight with a couple of girl friends. There was one man in the cinema. I felt sorry for him. It was very much like the TV show, I've watched enough random episodes to know who was who. It was light entertainment and I laughed a fair bit.

Indiana Jones and the Ageist Press

Every review I've read about the latest Indiana Jones film has made comment about the age of Harrison Ford. So what! I haven't seen the film myself, but my son and his mates went last night. They liked it. It was different, he said, possibly due to the aliens.

I find it kind of sad that the media has to make a big deal about the age of an actor in a film. I mean, big deal!

I will probably watch it on DVD in a few months time.

Tropfest Channel

Nine MSN and Tropfest have a site where you can watch this years films online. Watch the winning film "Marry Me" a love story. I liked it.

The Junior Tropfest winner is also accessible on this site.

Entries are open for Tropfest 2009.

Pangea Day

Saturday May 10th is Pangea Day. Watch films made by the world for the world. An amazing range of films that might just change your world. Get behind it.

Queenscliff Early Morning

Click to Play

Dawn at the Queenscliff, Victoria, Australia back balcony of the Queenscliff YHA.  

The Golden Compass

'The Golden Compass' is based on the fantasy novel 'Northern Lights' by Philip Pullman. It is the first in the trilogy 'His Dark Materials'. The production of the other two will apparently depend on the success of the first. People who have read the book are apparently displeased with the film. I am not one of them. I intend to read the book one day though.

I enjoyed the film. The acting and settings were great. I liked the fast pace and variety of action. I especially loved the song 'Lyra' written and performed by Kate Bush.

Juno

I enjoyed Juno. The characterisations were refreshing. I liked seeing the Paulie character, shy and railroaded by a stronger Juno. It was realistic of many young men at that age. The characters were well written.

The relationships were lovely and not stereotypic, yet more real than many screen relationships we've viewed.

For example the following dialogue:

Ultrasound Technician: I'm an ultrasound technician, maam.
Bren: Well, I'm a nail technician and I think we both ought to just stick to what we know.
Ultrasound Technician: Excuse me?
Bren: Oh, you think you're so special because you get to play Picture Pages up there? Well, my five year old daughter could do that and let me tell you, she's not the brightest bulb in the tanning bed. So why don't you go back to night school in Mantino and learn a real trade.
Juno MacGuff: Bren! You's a dick! I love it!

For once a step mother that doesn't suck!

For more great dialogue IMDB

My Pick for Top Gear Australian Audition

I am not into cars for the record. Quite impressed with Michael's clip. He's come a long way since "Carpark".

Tank Girl 1995

One of my favourite films 'Tank Girl'is based on a comic book by the same name. I showed some parts of it to my students in the last week of term as we were studying another film 'O Brother Where Art Thou' and looking at the similarities between 'The Odyssey' and these derivatives. It was fun, and she's an interesting female protagonist.

'Tank Girl' has a great sound track and is visually interesting. The setting 2033, a future where water has become a big issue was quite plausible to the students as well and the film has much to enjoy and muse upon.

Dan in Real Life

'Dan in Real Life' was an enjoyable romantic comedy about a guy who falls in love with his sisters girlfriend at a family gathering. I loved the family stuff in it most. Large family cultures are wonderful to me. As exasperating and trying as they can be to the family members, there is a real comfort and warmth that I experience in the large families I have belonged to.
I also enjoyed the 'single parent' with teenage daughter interactions. It successfully captured the awkwardness of a parent trying to work out the balance between putting your kids first and managing to have a personal 'grown up' relationship.
It's a truly funny and warm film, I recommend it.

Little Children

I'd heard nothing about this film, yet from the opening scene, I felt drawn into it. The thoughts of this mother and the narrators summation of the situations were effective in creating a remarkable clarity of storytelling. It was at once emotionally engaging and quite human.

I recommend 'Little Children' and I imagine this film will stay with me for quite a duration. It was quite an experience.

Rotten Tomatoes has a range of reviews.

Footy Legends

'Footy Legends' is a light uplifting story about the rise to self esteem for a bunch of unemployed young men. It's another Australian film and I enjoyed it. Urban Cinefile has a good review by Louise Keller. I am not really a football fan and have very little understanding of the game as played in this film. I enjoyed the story though.

Noise

Noise is tense. It's Australian and I liked it a lot. I liked it at the start when I realised it was made in Melbourne. Then the characters made me really intrigued. I thought I knew who was good and bad, then I was confused. Mostly I was surprised and that's what I always like in a film. I want those refreshing surprises in my entertainment. Those glimpses of the ordinary that seem honest if somewhat unattractive.

There are some really interesting scenes, like the conversations between the fiance of one of the victims and the policeman. The film revealed the characters quite thoughtfully and I was frequently startled by the action of the film, the twists and turns of the plot, the emotion shown by the male characters, the language used and the heavy smoking. There was actually a really clear shot of a brand of cigarettes at one point and this surprised me as well. I would love to know what the cigarette company paid for that advertising.

Tinnitus is horrible and if you've never had that annoying ringing in your ears, check out this film to get an idea of how harsh it is.

This film was a 2007 official selection Sundance Film Festival. It was popular,the following are a random sample of positive reviews Stale Popcorn, Aint it Cool and Applebox.

Great Ocean Road

Click to Play

Driving along Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia, January 2008.  

Formats available: Microsoft Video (.avi)

Tags: travel, drive, road, ocean, australia, coast

27 Dresses

Went to flicks with my mum to see '27 Dresses' last night. It was light-hearted entertainment. Typical feel good romantic comedy. As one who has been a bridesmaid only 5 times and had thought that excessive, I could relate more to the cynical journalist than the constant bridesmaid.


I laughed a lot during this movie and that's got to be good for you. The critics may mock and demean such movies as frivolous and fluffy, but laughter is the result I look for. It was a pleasant experience.

About Heath Ledger....

I have no idea how or why. Obviously - I don't know Heath Ledger. I admire and respect his art. I loved the characters and his playing in 'Two Hands', 'Ned Kelly', '1o Things I Hate About You', 'A Knights Tale' and others.

I felt he was a good person as far as I could see from such a great distance. I feel sad about his loss for his family, friends and for film. I appreciate the work he did and am grateful for that. I hope the media is kind to those close to him.

Music and Lyrics

I have to admit Hugh Grant plays characters that I find very likeable. I wasn't expecting much from this film and I was pleasantly surprised. It was true to its genre as a romantic comedy, I felt good after watching it.

I liked the way the 'pop' star was exposed as such a fraud too, with her spiritual 'glitter', yet underneath she thought the Dalai Lama was a llama. I liked the exposure of the 'famous' intellectual author as well.

It was just what I needed to watch last night.

Changes to Media Diet

Two articles today have drawn my attention to the fact that I don't listen to the radio or watch television any more. This statement comes from RIP Radio? an article today about podcasting growth, in 'The Age':

"He sees this streaming of genres, or "Foxtel for radio stations", as the future of radio. "Unless traditional radio stations look at these models, they will quickly find that they are irrelevant because young people just don't listen to the radio any more.""

The second article, Local TV to Profit from Writers Strike from 'The Australian', sounds like a boon for Australian Television Production, but this quote is telling :

"Mr Mitchell said this could lead to an Australian season of "repeats versus repeats", leaving networks with lower costs: "Presumably, they'd charge no less in ad rates." But he cautioned against taking viewers for granted. "People could
gradually drift away from free-to-air TV to pay-TV if it happened over a period of time," he said."

My son dropped our TV whilst I was on holidays. It died. He was stressed and thought I'd be upset, I wasn't. Possibly due to the way he framed the news.

Son: I've got some really bad news.

Me(interstate): Oh no, something really bad has happened....think recent teenage rampage in NarreWarren.... Just spit it out, tell me.

Son: I've killed the TV

Me: What in some freak underage drinking gathering?

Son: No, I was vacuuming and tried to move it and it fell off the stand.

Me: Really, that's it.

Son: True

Me: Thank God.

It could have been some other activity rather than vacuuming I guess, but, I really didn't care. He wanted to rush out and replace it before I got back, but we decided to use his small TV from his room, cause he rarely uses it and do some research before buying another.

He brought the TV downstairs and put it where the old one had been. I've watched a couple of DVDs on it, but I haven't even plugged the aeriel in. I don't listen to the radio in the car now that I have my iPod. I have an adapter I use. I download ABC radio and other podcasts. I buy DVD's of my favourite TV series and watch them as I want. I go to the cinema. I hire DVDs. I watch advertising on Duncans TV AD Land. Come to think of it I don't buy any print media except the occasional specialist magazine, I read enough online. Same goes for newspapers. Anyone else notice a change in thier media consumption?

Atonement

Last night I went to the Cinema with my mum to watch 'Atonement'. When it ended I felt I'd been too emotionally drained. It was an intense film and although the room was packed full, I frequently felt that shifting in my seat was too noisy due to the absolute stillness in the cinema.

I rushed outside and lit a cigarette, the main characters smoked mercilessly throughout the film and my addicted brain craved that kind of interuption to the tragedy unfolding before me.

With a bit of space between the experience and myself I must say it was a very well made film and delivered a real emotional punch. Kiera Knightly's acting with her grace and beauty were breathtaking. The green dress has to be seen. It was vivid and so realistic I had to turn away from many of the war scenes.

Amazing Grace

I wanted to see this film at the Cinema. Today I watched it on DVD. It was an experience. I was totally inspired by the story of William Wilberforce and his passionate life, devoted publicly to abolishing slavery and privately to fully experiencing life. It is a film containing many exquisite moments. I especially enjoyed Richard the Butlers relationship with William the politician and his quotes.
There is much to see and learn in this film and I highly recommend it.

Pan's Labyrinth

Pan's Labyrinth was pretty scary in parts, but I guess that's what can be expected from fascism. The frightening captain who was the stepfather from hell to Ofelia, the child protagonist, was more than I could bear in parts. This is a fairy tale in the tradition of the Grimm Brothers. It takes you on a dark journey, which at times I doubted could end well.

There is a great selection of reviews on Rotten Tomatoes.

It has a haunting soundtrack. It was beautiful in many parts though, the fantasy and natural world contained magic and spirit. This Mexican film is one of my favourites of this year. I will watch it again.

Factory Girl

Factory Girl was a sad tale, yet I enjoyed it. I have read some critiques on Rotten Tomatoes and agree with some of the complaints of the movies, yet not all. Sure there were gaps and questions but sometimes I think telling life stories, particularly recent life stories, needs to be like that.

If you have any interest in Andy Warhol, or the musician (he who doesn't want to be named), or Edie Sedgewick, it would be interesting to watch.

Once (2006)

Tonight I went to see Once. I loved it. I hadn't read anything about it cause I was in a rush before I went to the Cinema and I couldn't find a lot of info.
It was a treasure, described as a modern day musical, the music was breathtaking and fused with the story. It was a simple, yet very touching story.
It is an Irish film and has a realistic and unpolished feel about it. The lack of glamour gave the story intimacy to me. It was about broken hearted people joining to make their dreams come alive. It was uplifting.
The music was amazing. I intend to get the soundtrack as it moved me to tears in places. Glen Hansard, the main actor is also the musician on the soundtrack. He has an awesome voice.

Death Proof

I loved Death Proof. I love the characterisations and the stylised violence of this film, although parts I had to turn away from, I'm really quite chicken to the core when it comes to violence.

I am possibly too simplistic in my movie watching stance but I love the way, when I watch a Tarantino film, I know not to expect anything, yet find myself from habit having those expectations, I knew not to have splintered. I like his treatment of women. I wouldn't go so far as to say that is accurate, but it is fun to watch. I liked the references to previous films as discussed in the review below.

My favourite review: Film Intuition

Revver has Revamped

Revver has become Revver 2.0. The landing page has changed. They have brought back categories, which pleases me, because I liked having an easier way to find things of interest. There is the capacity to provide video responses, which will be interesting to watch.
The stats pages have changed a little.
It seems quicker loading to me and a lot more interesting. I like it.

You Tube Copyright Developments

In the news today is YouTube unveils copyright protection tools (The Age). I immediately wondered who would continue to go there if they couldn't find mainstream media. It would give video sites like Revver and Blip a real chance to compete.
However, YouTube has a number of record labels and other legitimate ways to include sought after video for the public. It will be interesting to see. I wonder if they will be as tight as Revver. I once submitted a holiday video to Revver that was rejected because a song was playing on the radio, that I thought was irrecognisable, and I didn't have the rights to it. I wasn't cranky about that though, if anything it just demonstrated a high level of integrity to me that I like.

Kate Bush's label, EMI UK, is publishing on You Tube so thanks to that here's a treat:

I love the latest "Arial" album and this is the single from it. Enjoy!

Tropfest Tuesday - Bad Yoghurt

"Bad Yoghurt" directed by Shaun Beagley is an experience. It's a 13+ experience by the way.



This is stylized yuck in my opinion, yet some of my students highly rate it. It's kind of shocking in a funny, revolting way. You have been warned. What do you think of it?

Tropfest Tuesday - An Imaginary Friend

The winner of the 2007 Tropfest, An Imaginary Friend by Steve Barker.




PS: Sorry about last week. School holiday funk happening.

Tropfest Tuesday - The Von

'The Von', directed by John Maverty.
This is one the kids appreciated. Not for the weak stomached though! A playground story about a boy who imagines himself a superhero, with disastrous consequences for a kid. This short stars Jacob Bicknell was the '2007 Young Talent of the Year'. 'The Von' is from the 2007 Tropfest

Tropfest Tuesday - Road Rage

'Road Rage' directed by Mark Bellamy


This film is surprising and touching, yet also humourous. It was one of the finalists for 2007 Tropfest. Road rage doesn't have to end up as we expect!

Pangea Day Needs Your Videos

An amazing new project brought to life at TED Conference, Pangea Day. Watch this trailor, it's inspiring.

Revver Pays out $1 Million on Anniversary of Launch

What If...

Tropfest Tuesday - Between the Flags

'Between the Flags' directed by Jayce White



I love this Tropfest 2007 clip. It is ironic and refers to the riots that occurred in Sydney,in a gentle and humourous way.

Next Internet Millionaire Stats and latest episodes

Episode 2

Episode 3



Stats from tubemogul

If you missed it: Episode 1. If you want to learn more about the whole deal check out

The Next Internet Millionaire

Tropfest Tuesday - Australian Summer

"Australian Summer" Rated PG 13+ (language I think)



This 'Tropfest' short film from the 2005 Tropfest Finalists is a poignant and touching clip. Directed by Luke Eve. The actors are amazing and it is great entertainment. It reminds me of the power of imagination. Bruce Spence is featured in this clip.

The Next Internet Millionare

The Next Internet Millionaire series on Revver is quite popular right now. In the style of reality TV shows (my least favourite genre I might add), 12 individuals compete for an online opportunity. There are a series of tasks they complete as individuals and teams. There are some interesting individuals. This first episode goes for an hour. The man behind Simpleology, Mark Joyner, participates in this first episode.

Tropfest for Kids

If you're under 15 and aspire to be a short film maker, what are you waiting for? Quickly go to TropJr, read all the details and get started. Go on, move it, why are you still reading this?

What is Jeff Skoll up to?

Participant Productions

Making Films to Make Change: Jeff Skoll on TED.com

Magnify Summer Updates in Winter

Know your Viewers better with Ease
It's still winter in Australia, yet the Summer updates from Magnify.net are certainly warming. The ability to email members for channel administrators as well as receive email notifications when comments are made will certainly improve the channel owners ability to market their site to their audience and build relationships.
Ads & so forth
The advertising control is working great as previously discussed here. You can select remember me to save logging in each visit. The trash option is more functional.
Creativity
New widgets and colour scheme's are available to tailor your channel more to your preferred style and taste.

Magnify certainly listens to feedback and is constantly improving the ease and control over your video stock. I love it.

Senses of Cinema

Senses of Cinema is a rich and vast Australian online journal. It has to be seen to be believed. If you are serious about learning about the Australian cinematic experience from a range of approaches, you can't go past it. The articles are lengthy and researched and I am so delighted I have found it. The links are extensive. It is the find of the year for me. I can't believe it's taken me so long to find it! I can see literally hours of pleasurable reading and learning from this discovery. So I thought I would share it with you.

Tubemogul - Revver stats

If you make videos and want to track their performance, you want to try tubemogul. This is a chart of my videos performance on Revver for a couple of weeks. If you want to keep this updated there is an option to do that. You can get all kinds of charts. These charts can be embedded such as the example above I like it!

Thank You for Smoking

Watched 'Thank You for Smoking' last night in my friend's home cinema. It was a lovely experience. The home theatre idea is just decadent and lovely enough to totally appeal to me. It's lucky I don't have one because I may never attend work!
Thank You for Smoking was a hoot. It was very funny in a shocking kind of way. It was both light-hearted, yet a little thought-provoking. I enjoyed it. The MOD squad (short for merchants of death) particularly tickled me.

Magnify - Now you can choose your advertisers!

This morning I put some of my latest clips onto my Falling Brick Magnify.net site and noticed that Magnify have a new tab for channel administrators - Ads. You can now select from many of the Ad networks available to monetise your site. This is expanded choice from the past where you could only participate with Adsense and Revver.

There was mention of this on the blog late last month: Should we open Adnet?. Yet I had heard nothing more of this until discovering it today. This is great news to me. I don't have an Adsense account.

If you haven't looked at Magnify, I recommend it. There are so many great videos online now. It's a great place to create and share your collections or your own videos.

Stardust

Amnesty on Switch

Switch TV sent me an email today about this award winning Amnesty International ad. It is certainly powerful so make sure you watch and better still, make sure you sign.

Signature - Amnesty International

Port Welshpool

Click to Play

A fishing village in South Gippsland in Victoria, Australia. It's a windy day.  

Formats available: Windows Media (.wmv), Flash Video (.flv)

Tags: wind, sea, fishing-village, port-welshpool, australia, victoria