The Intl. Emerging Film Talent Foundation (Ieftf), a new Athens-based venture established to provide support for unheard and unseen talent, launches May 18 at the Cannes Film Festival during the ceremony for the Arab Cinema Center film awards at the Plage des Palmes.
Established by Marco Orsini (pictured), the founder of the Intl. Emerging Film Talent Assn. (Iefta), the new foundation will offer tens of thousands of euros in support each year through grants to Iefta, which will in turn collaborate directly with film institutions, industry bodies, festivals and events with the goal of aiding emerging filmmakers who must overcome extraordinary challenges in entering the industry.
The launch is part of a series of events Iefta is hosting this week in Cannes, including a discussion with two-time Academy Award winner and Goodwill Ambassador for Unhcr, the U.N. Refugee Agency, Cate Blanchett, who will appear in conversation May 20 with journalist Hadley Gamble...
Established by Marco Orsini (pictured), the founder of the Intl. Emerging Film Talent Assn. (Iefta), the new foundation will offer tens of thousands of euros in support each year through grants to Iefta, which will in turn collaborate directly with film institutions, industry bodies, festivals and events with the goal of aiding emerging filmmakers who must overcome extraordinary challenges in entering the industry.
The launch is part of a series of events Iefta is hosting this week in Cannes, including a discussion with two-time Academy Award winner and Goodwill Ambassador for Unhcr, the U.N. Refugee Agency, Cate Blanchett, who will appear in conversation May 20 with journalist Hadley Gamble...
- 5/18/2024
- by Christopher Vourlias
- Variety Film + TV
Universal’s vampire horror Abigail is aiming to take a bite out of the box office this weekend, as it opens in 545 sites in the UK and Ireland for Universal – the widest new opener of the weekend.
The film follows a kidnapping that goes outrageously awry. It shot in Ireland and is directed by US filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett – the team behind Scream and Scream VI. The cast includes Matilda The Musical’s Alisha Weir in the titular role, alongside Melissa Barrera and Dan Stevens. Production companies are Project X Entertainment, Vinson Films and Radio Silence.
It’s...
The film follows a kidnapping that goes outrageously awry. It shot in Ireland and is directed by US filmmakers Matt Bettinelli-Olpin and Tyler Gillett – the team behind Scream and Scream VI. The cast includes Matilda The Musical’s Alisha Weir in the titular role, alongside Melissa Barrera and Dan Stevens. Production companies are Project X Entertainment, Vinson Films and Radio Silence.
It’s...
- 4/19/2024
- ScreenDaily
The Intl. Emerging Film Talent Assn. returns to Cannes for the 13th year with a series of events to showcase new faces from underrepresented regions. The lineup will include screenings of films centering on refugees, a cash award for a documentary and spotlights on Arab and Sudanese cinema.
For the sixth year, Iefta is collaborating with the United Nations Refugee Agency (Unhcr) at the Marche du Film. The program presents filmmakers — a number of them refugees themselves — who are documenting the experiences of those forced to flee from violence, famine or political oppression.
The Un agency and Iefta provide filmmaking tools and training to those affected. Refugees speak out about loss and desperation, but also resilience and hope.
“Refugee Voices in Films” this year features films from the Sudan Workshop focusing on the Horn of Africa. The Sudan Workshop is part of Unhcr’s developmental program with refugee filmmakers.
This...
For the sixth year, Iefta is collaborating with the United Nations Refugee Agency (Unhcr) at the Marche du Film. The program presents filmmakers — a number of them refugees themselves — who are documenting the experiences of those forced to flee from violence, famine or political oppression.
The Un agency and Iefta provide filmmaking tools and training to those affected. Refugees speak out about loss and desperation, but also resilience and hope.
“Refugee Voices in Films” this year features films from the Sudan Workshop focusing on the Horn of Africa. The Sudan Workshop is part of Unhcr’s developmental program with refugee filmmakers.
This...
- 5/17/2023
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
‘Mena 360’ will spotlight the production and film financing opportunities in the Arab world.
The Cannes Market has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s Neom Media Industries and Arab Cinema Centre to host a conference on the fast-growing opportunities in production, finance and talent in the Middle East and North Africa.
Titled ’Mena 360: Accessing the Largest Untapped Market’ in the World, it will run as part of the Cannes Next programme and comprise three panels exploring the best ways for the international industry to secure financing, partners, locations and talent from the region.
Mena executives and talent due to speak on the panels include Wayne Borg,...
The Cannes Market has partnered with Saudi Arabia’s Neom Media Industries and Arab Cinema Centre to host a conference on the fast-growing opportunities in production, finance and talent in the Middle East and North Africa.
Titled ’Mena 360: Accessing the Largest Untapped Market’ in the World, it will run as part of the Cannes Next programme and comprise three panels exploring the best ways for the international industry to secure financing, partners, locations and talent from the region.
Mena executives and talent due to speak on the panels include Wayne Borg,...
- 5/11/2023
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
The Intl. Emerging Film Talent Assn. (Iefta) returns to the Cannes Festival for the 12th year with film programs, panels, awards and cocktail receptions.
Iefta, with the U.N. Refugee Agency and its Telling the Real Story program, will present the fifth edition of Refugee Voices in Film beginning at noon on May 21 and May 22, both at Palais 1.
For the fourth year, Iefta also will sponsor a cash award of 10,536 to one of the 32 docs-in-progress from eight presenting partners participating in the Marché’s Docs-in-Progress Showcases at the May 24 Cannes Docs program headed by Pierre-Alexis Chevit.
Third, Iefta, in conjunction with Arab Cinema Centre and Mad Solutions, will present the Critics Awards for Arab Films ceremony, including a special honor to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (Unhcr) at the Carlton Beach.
The annual Refugee Voices in Film honors filmmakers — many of whom are refugees themselves — who document people enduring irregular migration,...
Iefta, with the U.N. Refugee Agency and its Telling the Real Story program, will present the fifth edition of Refugee Voices in Film beginning at noon on May 21 and May 22, both at Palais 1.
For the fourth year, Iefta also will sponsor a cash award of 10,536 to one of the 32 docs-in-progress from eight presenting partners participating in the Marché’s Docs-in-Progress Showcases at the May 24 Cannes Docs program headed by Pierre-Alexis Chevit.
Third, Iefta, in conjunction with Arab Cinema Centre and Mad Solutions, will present the Critics Awards for Arab Films ceremony, including a special honor to the U.N. High Commissioner for Refugees (Unhcr) at the Carlton Beach.
The annual Refugee Voices in Film honors filmmakers — many of whom are refugees themselves — who document people enduring irregular migration,...
- 5/10/2022
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
Marco Orsini, president of the not-for-profit International Emerging Film Talent Association (Iefta), is firmly in favor of a back to basics distribution approach for independent films from the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, the Horn of Africa and some parts of South Asia.
Orsini says that quality independent films would most likely be selected at some high-end film festivals and attract sales agents, but Covid-19 shut down many of the potential theatrical markets for these films. Many went straight to VOD platforms instead.
“I think a lot of the VOD platforms have begun to put a sting into how sales agents work, they become diminished,” Orsini told Variety in an interview conducted at the recent El Gouna Film Festival in Egypt. “But at the same time, filmmakers, I feel, have been brainwashed to believe that the golden carrot is Netflix.”
“I think that would be a great end game…...
Orsini says that quality independent films would most likely be selected at some high-end film festivals and attract sales agents, but Covid-19 shut down many of the potential theatrical markets for these films. Many went straight to VOD platforms instead.
“I think a lot of the VOD platforms have begun to put a sting into how sales agents work, they become diminished,” Orsini told Variety in an interview conducted at the recent El Gouna Film Festival in Egypt. “But at the same time, filmmakers, I feel, have been brainwashed to believe that the golden carrot is Netflix.”
“I think that would be a great end game…...
- 11/1/2021
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
Monaco-based International Emerging Film Talent Association will showcase 32 in-progress documentaries at this month’s Cannes Marché du Film-Festival and will present a cash award of to one of them.
The Marché runs July 6-15, concurrent with the broader Cannes film festival, which wraps July 17. This is the third year year Iefta is offering its presentations. The winner receives a prize worth about $11,865, or 10,000€.
Each year, Cannes Docs partners with various festivals and organizations from around the world to showcase documentaries that are aiming to hit the fest circuit within a few weeks or months. These docs-in-progress showcases are designed to help filmmakers as well as anyone looking for new titles, such as festival programmers and sales agents. The projects are often in search of post-production funding or general gap financing, and sometimes still open to co-production opportunities.
There will be eight showcases, each consisting of four projects; all 32 will offer...
The Marché runs July 6-15, concurrent with the broader Cannes film festival, which wraps July 17. This is the third year year Iefta is offering its presentations. The winner receives a prize worth about $11,865, or 10,000€.
Each year, Cannes Docs partners with various festivals and organizations from around the world to showcase documentaries that are aiming to hit the fest circuit within a few weeks or months. These docs-in-progress showcases are designed to help filmmakers as well as anyone looking for new titles, such as festival programmers and sales agents. The projects are often in search of post-production funding or general gap financing, and sometimes still open to co-production opportunities.
There will be eight showcases, each consisting of four projects; all 32 will offer...
- 7/3/2021
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
The documentary “Beyond the Raging Sea” will make its European premiere July 4 as the centerpiece presentation of the Monaco Streaming Film Festival. The screening will take place in Monte Carlo’s Grimaldi Forum prior to the Festival’s Gala Awards evening. The film’s writer-director, Marco Orsini, will attend.
The Streaming Festival debuts this year, running July 3-6. Organizers describe it as a hybrid “festival-meets-summit” experience, celebrating the streaming industry’s content, makers, creators and talent, providing industry inside know-how during the event which is described as technologically-driven.
Given the times, the fest has a live streaming platform, which will feature all of the virtual-only content, conferences, marketplace, premieres and panels. The event is being held in conjunction with the Reg Grundy Innovation Award, the Princess Grace Foundation, the White Feather Foundation and the Gema Foundation.
“Beyond the Raging Sea” follows the true-life rescue story of Egyptian athletes Omar Samra...
The Streaming Festival debuts this year, running July 3-6. Organizers describe it as a hybrid “festival-meets-summit” experience, celebrating the streaming industry’s content, makers, creators and talent, providing industry inside know-how during the event which is described as technologically-driven.
Given the times, the fest has a live streaming platform, which will feature all of the virtual-only content, conferences, marketplace, premieres and panels. The event is being held in conjunction with the Reg Grundy Innovation Award, the Princess Grace Foundation, the White Feather Foundation and the Gema Foundation.
“Beyond the Raging Sea” follows the true-life rescue story of Egyptian athletes Omar Samra...
- 7/3/2021
- by Tim Gray
- Variety Film + TV
“Beyond the Raging Sea,” an extreme sea adventure documentary aimed at raising awareness of the global refugee crisis, is set for a wide theatrical release across the Mena region via Arab marketing and distribution company Mad Solutions and Middle East exhibitor Vox Cinemas.
The deal between the two companies and the International Emerging Film Talent Assn. (Iefta), a not-for-profit organization that supported the doc, was announced at the Efm.
It marks a rare case of a specialty title getting major theatrical play in the region.
The doc, directed by Marco Orsini (“Dinner at the No-Gos”) and made under the patronage of the Un Refugee Agency, follows two Egyptians, Omar Samra and Omar Nour (affectionately known as O2), on their 3,000-mile journey from the Canary Islands to Antigua.
The doc premiered at Egypt’s El Gouna Film Festival to positive reviews and will have its official market premiere at the Efm on Monday.
The deal between the two companies and the International Emerging Film Talent Assn. (Iefta), a not-for-profit organization that supported the doc, was announced at the Efm.
It marks a rare case of a specialty title getting major theatrical play in the region.
The doc, directed by Marco Orsini (“Dinner at the No-Gos”) and made under the patronage of the Un Refugee Agency, follows two Egyptians, Omar Samra and Omar Nour (affectionately known as O2), on their 3,000-mile journey from the Canary Islands to Antigua.
The doc premiered at Egypt’s El Gouna Film Festival to positive reviews and will have its official market premiere at the Efm on Monday.
- 2/22/2020
- by Nick Vivarelli
- Variety Film + TV
This documentary not only grips the audience in fear and excitement, but it transmits an energy to the audience in a way I have not witnessed before. This energy is brought to the forefront by the vivid descriptions of the ordeal as related by the two Omars.
Making its World Premiere at Gff, Marco Orsini’s Beyond The Raging Sea follows the harrowing tale of two Egyptian adventurers, Omar Samra and Omar Nour (affectionately known as O2), as they take on the world’s toughest row, an unsupported, perilous 3,000 nautical mile journey from the Canary Islands to Antigua. The extreme journey is part of an annual ocean-rowing race called the Atlantic Challenge. They didn’t make it.
Eight days, and 500 miles into their journey across the Atlantic, Team O2 was hit by 45 knot winds and towering waves that caused their boat to capsize — their boat did not self-right as it was meant to do.
Making its World Premiere at Gff, Marco Orsini’s Beyond The Raging Sea follows the harrowing tale of two Egyptian adventurers, Omar Samra and Omar Nour (affectionately known as O2), as they take on the world’s toughest row, an unsupported, perilous 3,000 nautical mile journey from the Canary Islands to Antigua. The extreme journey is part of an annual ocean-rowing race called the Atlantic Challenge. They didn’t make it.
Eight days, and 500 miles into their journey across the Atlantic, Team O2 was hit by 45 knot winds and towering waves that caused their boat to capsize — their boat did not self-right as it was meant to do.
- 10/6/2019
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
My first time in Egypt was last year at El Gouna Film Festival and I feel honored by the privilege of being here for a second year.It’s a small enough festival that you feel you can actually see all the films (even if you can’t), and yet it is large enough to be internationally cosmopolitan. The international mix of filmmakers, executives, writers and journalists is unique.
Opening Night was thrilling in an open air atrium leading to a huge open air screen, an audience dressed in their most elegant clothes in a setting that went beyond anything I had ever seen at a festival before.
Deborah Young, Recipient of #ArabCinemaCenter’s “Achievement Award for Film Critics” at Opening Night, El Gouna Film Festival 2019
This year I met old friends and new, like Oualid Mouaness whose film 1982 was announced as Lebanon’s submission for Academy Award Nomination for Best International Feature,...
Opening Night was thrilling in an open air atrium leading to a huge open air screen, an audience dressed in their most elegant clothes in a setting that went beyond anything I had ever seen at a festival before.
Deborah Young, Recipient of #ArabCinemaCenter’s “Achievement Award for Film Critics” at Opening Night, El Gouna Film Festival 2019
This year I met old friends and new, like Oualid Mouaness whose film 1982 was announced as Lebanon’s submission for Academy Award Nomination for Best International Feature,...
- 10/5/2019
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Dhaka Film Festival 16th Edition January 12–20th
The 16th Dhaka International Film Festival (Diff) will be held in Dhaka from 12 to 20 January 2018. The general theme of the festival is “Better Film, Better Audience, Better Society.”The Festival has been organized on a regular basis by Rainbow Film Society, which has been dedicated to the promotion of a healthy cine culture in Bangladesh and in celebrating the global mainstream in film and its social relevance since 1977.
Rainbow Film Society is one of the most active film entities in the film society movement of Bangladesh. Apart from holding regular film shows and film related seminars and workshops, Rainbow also brings out “The Celluloid”, one of the leading cinema periodicals from Bangladesh with an international audience.
The Diff is one of the most prestigious film events in Bangladesh and, to a great extent, has helped shape an increasingly healthy and positive national film culture.
The 16th Dhaka International Film Festival (Diff) will be held in Dhaka from 12 to 20 January 2018. The general theme of the festival is “Better Film, Better Audience, Better Society.”The Festival has been organized on a regular basis by Rainbow Film Society, which has been dedicated to the promotion of a healthy cine culture in Bangladesh and in celebrating the global mainstream in film and its social relevance since 1977.
Rainbow Film Society is one of the most active film entities in the film society movement of Bangladesh. Apart from holding regular film shows and film related seminars and workshops, Rainbow also brings out “The Celluloid”, one of the leading cinema periodicals from Bangladesh with an international audience.
The Diff is one of the most prestigious film events in Bangladesh and, to a great extent, has helped shape an increasingly healthy and positive national film culture.
- 12/7/2017
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Against the backdrop of the largest refugee crisis since the Second World War, a full-day conference, "Refugee Voices in Film," will be held on the 18th of May at the Palais des Festivals in Cannes, presented by the International Emerging Film Talent Association (Iefta), in collaboration with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (Unhcr) and the Marché Du Film.
The global humanitarian tragedy has sparked the interest of the entertainment world, specifically on refugee-related films, with filmmakers, some of whom are refugees themselves, telling their own stories and those of affected populations. "Refugee Voices in Film," an all-day event, will explore the ways broadcasters, humanitarian agencies and filmmakers engage and portray refugees and their plight, creating a platform for engagement in the media and entertainment landscape. It will present voices of independent filmmakers and look at how the worldwide entertainment community is telling and sharing refugee stories.
The event will consist of conversations, screenings and panel discussions. It will examine the ways narrative and documentary filmmakers and the media have responded to the devastating worldwide crisis and how they have engaged and depicted refugees and their circumstances. It will look at how refugee experiences influence cinematic expression and new storytelling techniques and furthermore, how they create compelling television stories, documentaries and narrative films.
As part of this initiative, plans are also underway for the screening of films about or by refugees at the Doc Corner of the Marché du Film located in the Riviera. While films are still being selected, the programming will consist of films made by the participants in the conference, films by refugees and films depicting the lives of refugees, as well as addressing the multitude of challenges millions of refugees face daily.
“The real lives of refugees are by far more dramatic than anything a fictional film script can provide. So it does not come as a surprise that filmmakers all over the world are taking up the issue in documentaries and fictional films. Unhcr seeks the cooperation of the cinematic world. We intimately know the issues and have experience in communicating with individual refugees without doing harm. The filmmakers bring their stories to an influential audience. It is a perfect match.” – Ragnhild Ek on behalf of Unhcr Egypt.
“The Marché is honored to be the platform for such a significant encounter. The Festival de Cannes is a very symbolic place for the unheard voices to reach an international audience and to raise awareness on refugees across the industry. We are glad to include this topic at the Doc Corner which will showcase many films about displacement, human rights and social justice.” – Jérôme Paillard, Marché Du Film.
“As storytellers and presenters, we have a responsibility to respond to the unimaginable suffering of these peoples.'Refugee Voices in Film' is a critical event relevant to one of the most pressing humanitarian crisis of our time. It will make a vital difference in bringing refugee stories to an influential audience, and allow for valuable contributions to the landscape of refugees in film and documentaries.” – Marco Orsini, Iefta.
The mission of Iefta is to discover and promote emerging cinema talent from around the world, to encourage dialogue between filmmakers, to promote cultural diversity and international understanding and to engage the art of cinema. Focusing on the world’s developing regions, Iefta’s Global Film Expression provides opportunity and education to those who have no access to the resources for cinematic expression.
2016 will mark the 10th Anniversary of the activities of the Iefta, including its Global Film Expression, Ethiopian Film Initiative, Addis to Cannes workshop, and numerous other programs and initiatives. Iefta will be announcing exciting new initiatives and international programs and partnerships during the Festival. And, the Iefta will celebrate these remarkable achievements with the "Refugee Voices in Film" workshop, a Gala Party at Venue 61 on the Croisette during the Cannes Film Festival, and a special presentation in Monte-Carlo.
The global humanitarian tragedy has sparked the interest of the entertainment world, specifically on refugee-related films, with filmmakers, some of whom are refugees themselves, telling their own stories and those of affected populations. "Refugee Voices in Film," an all-day event, will explore the ways broadcasters, humanitarian agencies and filmmakers engage and portray refugees and their plight, creating a platform for engagement in the media and entertainment landscape. It will present voices of independent filmmakers and look at how the worldwide entertainment community is telling and sharing refugee stories.
The event will consist of conversations, screenings and panel discussions. It will examine the ways narrative and documentary filmmakers and the media have responded to the devastating worldwide crisis and how they have engaged and depicted refugees and their circumstances. It will look at how refugee experiences influence cinematic expression and new storytelling techniques and furthermore, how they create compelling television stories, documentaries and narrative films.
As part of this initiative, plans are also underway for the screening of films about or by refugees at the Doc Corner of the Marché du Film located in the Riviera. While films are still being selected, the programming will consist of films made by the participants in the conference, films by refugees and films depicting the lives of refugees, as well as addressing the multitude of challenges millions of refugees face daily.
“The real lives of refugees are by far more dramatic than anything a fictional film script can provide. So it does not come as a surprise that filmmakers all over the world are taking up the issue in documentaries and fictional films. Unhcr seeks the cooperation of the cinematic world. We intimately know the issues and have experience in communicating with individual refugees without doing harm. The filmmakers bring their stories to an influential audience. It is a perfect match.” – Ragnhild Ek on behalf of Unhcr Egypt.
“The Marché is honored to be the platform for such a significant encounter. The Festival de Cannes is a very symbolic place for the unheard voices to reach an international audience and to raise awareness on refugees across the industry. We are glad to include this topic at the Doc Corner which will showcase many films about displacement, human rights and social justice.” – Jérôme Paillard, Marché Du Film.
“As storytellers and presenters, we have a responsibility to respond to the unimaginable suffering of these peoples.'Refugee Voices in Film' is a critical event relevant to one of the most pressing humanitarian crisis of our time. It will make a vital difference in bringing refugee stories to an influential audience, and allow for valuable contributions to the landscape of refugees in film and documentaries.” – Marco Orsini, Iefta.
The mission of Iefta is to discover and promote emerging cinema talent from around the world, to encourage dialogue between filmmakers, to promote cultural diversity and international understanding and to engage the art of cinema. Focusing on the world’s developing regions, Iefta’s Global Film Expression provides opportunity and education to those who have no access to the resources for cinematic expression.
2016 will mark the 10th Anniversary of the activities of the Iefta, including its Global Film Expression, Ethiopian Film Initiative, Addis to Cannes workshop, and numerous other programs and initiatives. Iefta will be announcing exciting new initiatives and international programs and partnerships during the Festival. And, the Iefta will celebrate these remarkable achievements with the "Refugee Voices in Film" workshop, a Gala Party at Venue 61 on the Croisette during the Cannes Film Festival, and a special presentation in Monte-Carlo.
- 5/5/2016
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
Exclusive: Principal photography has wrapped on Mary McGuckian’s The Price Of Desire, about modernist designer Eileen Gray.
On the final day of the shoot the production staged a reenactment of the February 2009 record-breaking $28m Paris sale at Christie’s of Gray’s Dragon Chair.
The reenactment will be the opening scene and recreates what remains the highest price paid for an item of 20th century design.
Cheska Vallois of Galerie Vallois, who bid for the anonymous private client who bought the chair, plays herself in the production and famously explained the high price-tag to reporters immediately after the auction by saying “it can only be the price of desire.”
The Price Of Desire focuses on how rival modernist Le Corbusier questioned Gray’s reputation as one of the most powerful influences on modern architecture and design.
Orla Brady plays the lead role of Gray opposite Vincent Perez as Le Corbusier. Alanis Morissette and [link...
On the final day of the shoot the production staged a reenactment of the February 2009 record-breaking $28m Paris sale at Christie’s of Gray’s Dragon Chair.
The reenactment will be the opening scene and recreates what remains the highest price paid for an item of 20th century design.
Cheska Vallois of Galerie Vallois, who bid for the anonymous private client who bought the chair, plays herself in the production and famously explained the high price-tag to reporters immediately after the auction by saying “it can only be the price of desire.”
The Price Of Desire focuses on how rival modernist Le Corbusier questioned Gray’s reputation as one of the most powerful influences on modern architecture and design.
Orla Brady plays the lead role of Gray opposite Vincent Perez as Le Corbusier. Alanis Morissette and [link...
- 12/13/2013
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Born to Puerto-Rican parents in San Juan, Marco Orsini was raised on a succession of U.S. military bases in the Far East and Europe before attending high school in the American South at the height of desegregation. The first feature film he directded, The Reluctant Traveler, documents an ambitious and exhaustive cultural expedition across the northern half of Ethiopia. Lately, Marco has been measuring the distance from home against the presumptions and pre-occupations of the American news media, which have never seemed more parochial. A taste for adventure and exploration characterizes his life and his career.
We have known Marco Orsini on the film circuit for a while, especially at Cannes, through The International Emerging Film Talent Association (Iefta) and the Ethiopian Film Initiative (Efi) . We are glad to see this interesting, very political new film of his coming out to acclaim. We wish him and the film well and can recommend to friends to see this important indie work. This week Woodstock, tomorrow ?? The world!
-----------------
Director Marco Orsini’s fascinating documentary Dinner at The No Go’s had its World Premiere at the celebrated Woodstock Film Festival in upstate New York (October 10-14).
“Official United States Travel Warnings” also known as the “No Go List” are issued when “protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable lead the State Department to recommend that Americans avoid or consider the risk of travel to that country. A “Travel Warning” is also issued when the
U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff.
In this documentary, Marco Orsini, an independent American filmmaker living in Monaco, and Bilal Mekkaoui, a Lebanese investment banker living in London, investigate the reality and rhetoric behind the “Us State Department Travel Warnings” (the No-Go List) by making plans for dinner and discovery in countries on the front lines of international, religious and cultural conflicts.
Though neither treats lightly the dangers of political instability, crime or contagion, both are suspicious about the political calculations behind the designation and concerns about its consequence for residents, visitors and international relations.
With the No-Go documentary, Marco attempts to put a human face on places that we are not advised to visit. Through friendly social interaction at the dinner table with residents of countries that the U.S. audiences perceive are in war or conflict, he hopes to show a symbol of civilized exchange, a metaphor for sharing and a ritual for universal familiarity.
The No-Go’s follows the two global citizens in a series of visits to politically unstable countries in the Middle East having dinner in Beirut, Amman, the Palestinian Camps, Tel Aviv, Cairo and others.
Both men are prepared to engage their in-country hosts and acquaintances on the issues that earn inclusion on the list. Religion, politics, economics, cultural traditions, public perception, local prejudice and comfort food are all “on the table” for discussion.
The purpose of the film is to give moderates, whether Conservative or Liberal, a voice in an arena dominated by extremists on both sides. Through personal experiences and stories told by the modern and engaged residents of these countries in crisis, the filmmaker hopes to provide an opportunity for peace and understanding in a cheerful social context.
We have known Marco Orsini on the film circuit for a while, especially at Cannes, through The International Emerging Film Talent Association (Iefta) and the Ethiopian Film Initiative (Efi) . We are glad to see this interesting, very political new film of his coming out to acclaim. We wish him and the film well and can recommend to friends to see this important indie work. This week Woodstock, tomorrow ?? The world!
-----------------
Director Marco Orsini’s fascinating documentary Dinner at The No Go’s had its World Premiere at the celebrated Woodstock Film Festival in upstate New York (October 10-14).
“Official United States Travel Warnings” also known as the “No Go List” are issued when “protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable lead the State Department to recommend that Americans avoid or consider the risk of travel to that country. A “Travel Warning” is also issued when the
U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff.
In this documentary, Marco Orsini, an independent American filmmaker living in Monaco, and Bilal Mekkaoui, a Lebanese investment banker living in London, investigate the reality and rhetoric behind the “Us State Department Travel Warnings” (the No-Go List) by making plans for dinner and discovery in countries on the front lines of international, religious and cultural conflicts.
Though neither treats lightly the dangers of political instability, crime or contagion, both are suspicious about the political calculations behind the designation and concerns about its consequence for residents, visitors and international relations.
With the No-Go documentary, Marco attempts to put a human face on places that we are not advised to visit. Through friendly social interaction at the dinner table with residents of countries that the U.S. audiences perceive are in war or conflict, he hopes to show a symbol of civilized exchange, a metaphor for sharing and a ritual for universal familiarity.
The No-Go’s follows the two global citizens in a series of visits to politically unstable countries in the Middle East having dinner in Beirut, Amman, the Palestinian Camps, Tel Aviv, Cairo and others.
Both men are prepared to engage their in-country hosts and acquaintances on the issues that earn inclusion on the list. Religion, politics, economics, cultural traditions, public perception, local prejudice and comfort food are all “on the table” for discussion.
The purpose of the film is to give moderates, whether Conservative or Liberal, a voice in an arena dominated by extremists on both sides. Through personal experiences and stories told by the modern and engaged residents of these countries in crisis, the filmmaker hopes to provide an opportunity for peace and understanding in a cheerful social context.
- 10/22/2012
- by Peter Belsito
- Sydney's Buzz
I have known Marco 'on the film circuit' for a while and am really glad to see this interesting, very political new film of his coming out to acclaim. I wish him and the film well and can recommend to friends to see this important indie work. Today Woodstock, tomorrow ?? the world. ----------------- Director Marco Orsini’s fascinating documentary Dinner at The No Go’s had its World Premiere at the celebrated Woodstock Film Festival in upstate New York (October 10-14). “Official United States Travel Warnings” also known as the “No Go List” are issued when “protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable lead the State Department to recommend that Americans avoid or consider the risk of travel to that country. A “Travel Warning” is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff. In this documentary, Marco Orsini, an independent American filmmaker living in Monaco, and Bilal Mekkaoui, a Lebanese investment banker living in London, investigate the reality and rhetoric behind the “Us State Department Travel Warnings” (the No-Go List) by making plans for dinner and discovery in countries on the front lines of international, religious and cultural conflicts. Though neither treats lightly the dangers of political instability, crime or contagion, both are suspicious about the political calculations behind the designation and concerns about its consequence for residents, visitors and international relations. With the No-Go documentary, Marco attempts to put a human face on places that we are not advised to visit. Through friendly social interaction at the dinner table with residents of countries that the Us audiences perceive are in war or conflict, he hopes to show a symbol of civilized exchange, a metaphor for sharing and a ritual for universal familiarity. The No-Go’s follows the two global citizens in a series of visits to politically unstable countries in the Middle East having dinner in Beirut, Amman, the Palestinian Camps, Tel Aviv, Cairo and others. Both men are prepared to engage their in-country hosts and acquaintances on the issues that earn inclusion on the list. Religion, politics, economics, cultural traditions, public perception, local prejudice and comfort food are all “on the table” for discussion. The purpose of the film, directed by Marco Orsini, is to give moderates, whether Conservative or Liberal, a voice in an arena dominated by extremists on both sides. Through personal experiences and stories told by the modern and engaged residents of these countries in crisis, the filmmaker hopes to provide an opportunity for peace and understanding in a cheerful social context. About the filmmaker: Born to Puerto-Rican parents in San Juan, Marco Orsini was raised on a succession of Us military bases in the Far East and Europe before attending high school in the American South at the height of desegregation. His latest film, “The Reluctant Traveler,” documents an ambitious and exhaustive cultural expedition across the northern half of Ethiopia. Lately, Marco has been measuring the distance from home against the presumptions and pre-occupations of the American news media, which have never seemed more parochial. A taste for adventure and exploration characterizes his life and his career.
- 10/22/2012
- by Peter Belsito
- Sydney's Buzz
These days there is much going on in African filmmaking. Variety seems to be the only trade which covers the continent in a fairly consistent way. If Ron Burkle succeeds in buying it, there will be more good news coming from the near moribund trade paper. But read this article from August 6-12 on the ongoing activities of these African nations; it's heartening. It includes Tom Twyker's efforts in Nairobi, the Berlin Talent Campus in Durban, American Lee Isaac Chung's Almond Tree in Rwanda (where its Film Festival is currently taking place), Mira Nair's Maisha Film Lab in Kampala, Focus' ongoing shorts production program Africa First.
Locarno Film Festival just awarded cash through its Open Door Film Lab to six west African features out of 12 chosen films from the French speaking sub-Saharan former colonies.
Not covered in the article is The International Emerging Film Talent Association (Iefta) and the Ethiopian Film Initiative (Efi). Three talented young Ethiopian Filmmakers Henok Mebratu, Olisarali Olibui and Yidnekachew Shumete had a once-in a–lifetime experience when they spent a week in Monte Carlo and at the Cannes Film Festival, attending film screenings and premieres, participating in meetings, workshops, and seminars, and being feted at dinners and parties, and presenting their own work. Participants of an educational program sponsored by chosen after a rigorous competition among fellow Ethiopian filmmakers, the trio had the opportunity for the filmmakers to meet a range of influential distributors, sales agents, producers, directors and international film commissioners at the festival, and also for them to be given one-on-one sessions with film institutions, consultants, established producing & co-producing entities, and international distribution companies. I was happy giving them an in-depth tour of the market where we were able to spot the sales agents with interest in African films and to talk with several of them.
Ambassador Tadelech Haile-Michael, a founding member of the Efi in Ethiopia, welcomed the news, calling it a chance to raise the international profile of Ethiopian films. "This is a great opportunity for Ethiopian filmmakers to establish themselves in the international marketplace,” she said. "I am also delighted they will be able to present some images of our beautiful Ethiopian landscapes and culture, and show the rest of the world what an attractive location Ethiopia can be for international filmmakers.”
The filmmakers were selected from a significant group of applicants emerging from Ethiopia’s nascent film community. The criteria for participation mandates that the filmmaker be an Ethiopian national living and working in Ethiopia at least 6 months of the year and have produced or directed one fiction or documentary short or feature film. Prior to the filmmakers’ arrival in Cannes, they stopped in Monte Carlo – the home of the Iefta – for preparation meetings as well as a benefit event, on May 19th, where their films were screened.
"This is the second time the Iefta has brought filmmakers from Ethiopia to Cannes, and we are extremely excited about the caliber of this year's finalists,” says Marco Orsini, current President of the Iefta. “It demonstrates that there is a growing film market and community in Ethiopia that should be taken seriously. We are also very pleased in the partnership we have had with the Ethiopian Film Initiative which provides on the ground training in Addis Ababa and are looking forward to expanding our programs into other parts of the developing world."
Henok Mebratuis an experienced filmmaker and a well-known figure among the Ethiopian creative community. His talents include directing documentaries and teaching media skills. In Cannes he will present a new movie drama he is working on. It tells the story of Kidist and Dawit, who were both raised abroad and whose lives are completely transformed by returning to Ethiopia to say farewell to their dying father.
Olisarali Olibui Tongolu co-produced an award-winning film, "Shooting with the Mursi", which gives an intriguing insider's view of his own tribe. In Cannes he will pitch his next project proposal "My Enemy, My Brother". Filming has already started on this project, which will focus on issues facing neighboring tribes of the Mursi. The themes to be covered include uncontrolled tourism, climate change and land rights.
Yidnekachew Shumete Desalegn is a widely respected film director in Addis Ababa, as well as a cameraman, editor, teacher and scriptwriter. He has worked extensively in both fiction and documentary films. His first feature film "Siryet" (2007), achieved widespread popularity. In Cannes he will pitch his upcoming film "Nishan" or Medal of Honour. It tells the story of Nishan, a young girl, who receives the rare opportunity of a visa to go abroad and change her life for the better. However, perplexing problems soon beset her.
“We’re very proud of our 2012 Ethiopian Film Initiative finalists,” states Mitch Levine, Iefta Executive Consultant. “These filmmakers have demonstrated a passion for their art, excellence in filmmaking and a commitment to the advancement of Ethiopia’s – and Africa’s – filmmaking community. We are thrilled to host them for a week of education, workshops and screenings at the Cannes Film Festival and at the Iefta’s base in Monaco.”
The Iefta and Efi form an international / Ethiopian partnership committed to raising the professional standards of the Ethiopian film industry. The Efi provides capacity building support for Ethiopian documentary and feature film producers and directors as well as encouraging and training local and international entities to use local filmmakers.
The Iefta – through its Global Film Expression and programs like the Ethiopian Film Initative – is dedicated to the discovery, nurture and promotion of filmmakers throughout the developing world. The Iefta has been supporting Emerging talent since 2006 and has been specifically supporting Ethiopian film since 2008.
The VIP fund-raising event was held at a beautiful Belle Époque villa in the heart of Monte Carlo which was covered in an Architectural Digest feature on the Villa Nocturne mansion.
Their experience began in Monte Carlo, the home base of the Iefta, when they attended a Benefit Dinner in their honor at the beautiful Villa Nocturne hosted by Iefta President Marco Orsini. Funders and supporters of the Iefta and Efi program were on hand as well as members of the international press and film industry who came in from Cannes for the event and to meet the filmmakers. Actor Billy Zane (“Titanic”) flew in from the U.S. to support the event and to serve as mentor for the filmmakers. Marco Orsini, President of the Iefta announced that Mr. Zane has joined the organization’s Advisory Board. He also announced that in addition to the focus on Ethiopia (begun in 2008) and its filmmaking community, the Iefta would also be broadening its educational outreach and support to include young emerging talent from other African nations beginning in Sierra Leone. The next day was spent in workshops, and meetings preparing the three for theirtrip to the Festival in Cannes where they were to meet the industry. Veteran Producer Mitch Levine guided them through discussions, trial pitching sessions and filmmaking workshops. That evening at Crem in Monte Carlo, the filmmakers screened their short films, to the public, program supporters, and local Monaco media. Following the screenings Billy Zane led the three in a discussion of their work, their filmmaking vision and the passion for their art, and commitment to the advancement of Ethiopia’s – and Africa’s – filmmaking community. On to Cannes and the 65th Cannes Film Festival where the three were immersed in the industry. From morning to night they traversed the Festival, guided by Mitch Levine. I gave a tour of the market to Henok, Olisarali and Yidney in which we discussed the lack of people of African descent as well as of women in the festival offerings. Olisari belongs to one of many, many tribes in Ethiopia and has traveled extensively in groups making films about aborigines. His next film is My Brother, My Enemy. Yidney has made a film about a young woman. Their representing the unrepresented makes me an enthusiastic supporter of them, the Iefta and of Marco for carrying on his work. They met and spoke with industry professionals such as Co-Director of the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival Cameron Bailey and his team of programmers specializing in Africa; Film Fund representatives from France and Norway whose funding programs specifically benefit the filmmakers’ region; Film Commissioners and Film Festival directors and programmers from Scandinavia, Europe, India, Canada, U.S. and elsewhere to speak about co-production opportunities as well as presenting their work to the public; distributors and acquisition executives who explained what they were looking for from the global marketplace to bring to their countries and audiences; public relations and marketing executives, as well as journalists and many many others. They had numerous opportunities of networking and attending receptions – where the real work of the festival is done – and talked, met and mingled with the world’s film industry. “As a filmmaker from a developing country, I used to wonder how things worked in the developed world,” says Yidnekachew Shumete, “and this trip gave me the inside look and on how industry professionals operate and how I can best use this new knowledge in my career. It was magnificent! It will be interesting to see if things will be the same when I get back home?” “I can simply say that these were the most efficient six days for my career,” says Henok Mebratu. “The experience has completely raised my confidence in the contexts of developing my work and pitching, selling, marketing and showing my films. Now, better knowing how the film industry works, I can upgrade my products to meet international standards.” “This trip to Monaco and Cannes was very impressive,” states Olisarali Olibui. “I have travelled to a lot of festivals, but I have never seen this type of program with all the workshops, seminars, and meetings for a filmmaker. I have learned a lot about distribution, co-productions, etc. As an indigenous person - I can now be instrumental in helping other indigenous filmmakers. It was so amazing. I appreciate the Efi and Iefta efforts - and for selecting my projects and me!! It was very strong work, and was much more than just an organized visit - but provided me with education, training and important contacts. I am looking forward to what the future will bring for this program and for me.” Ambassador Tadelech Haile-Michael, a founding member of the Efi in Ethiopia, says, “I want to underline the unique opportunities brought to the Ethiopian filmmakers and the Efi by the Monaco and Cannes visit and that it is now up to them to pursue their contacts. This was a special new experience both for the filmmakers and myself and we all benefited. Billy Zane’s participation and the commitment and kindness of the people working with Iefta was so touching it has inspired me to work more to strengthen our common dream of the Efi. Meeting heads ofinstitutions, film commissions, fund providers, film school directors and instructors and other different role players that can become Efi partners and help support in the creation of a film fund and/or a film school to benefit our emerging filmmakers was incredibly valuable.”...
Locarno Film Festival just awarded cash through its Open Door Film Lab to six west African features out of 12 chosen films from the French speaking sub-Saharan former colonies.
Not covered in the article is The International Emerging Film Talent Association (Iefta) and the Ethiopian Film Initiative (Efi). Three talented young Ethiopian Filmmakers Henok Mebratu, Olisarali Olibui and Yidnekachew Shumete had a once-in a–lifetime experience when they spent a week in Monte Carlo and at the Cannes Film Festival, attending film screenings and premieres, participating in meetings, workshops, and seminars, and being feted at dinners and parties, and presenting their own work. Participants of an educational program sponsored by chosen after a rigorous competition among fellow Ethiopian filmmakers, the trio had the opportunity for the filmmakers to meet a range of influential distributors, sales agents, producers, directors and international film commissioners at the festival, and also for them to be given one-on-one sessions with film institutions, consultants, established producing & co-producing entities, and international distribution companies. I was happy giving them an in-depth tour of the market where we were able to spot the sales agents with interest in African films and to talk with several of them.
Ambassador Tadelech Haile-Michael, a founding member of the Efi in Ethiopia, welcomed the news, calling it a chance to raise the international profile of Ethiopian films. "This is a great opportunity for Ethiopian filmmakers to establish themselves in the international marketplace,” she said. "I am also delighted they will be able to present some images of our beautiful Ethiopian landscapes and culture, and show the rest of the world what an attractive location Ethiopia can be for international filmmakers.”
The filmmakers were selected from a significant group of applicants emerging from Ethiopia’s nascent film community. The criteria for participation mandates that the filmmaker be an Ethiopian national living and working in Ethiopia at least 6 months of the year and have produced or directed one fiction or documentary short or feature film. Prior to the filmmakers’ arrival in Cannes, they stopped in Monte Carlo – the home of the Iefta – for preparation meetings as well as a benefit event, on May 19th, where their films were screened.
"This is the second time the Iefta has brought filmmakers from Ethiopia to Cannes, and we are extremely excited about the caliber of this year's finalists,” says Marco Orsini, current President of the Iefta. “It demonstrates that there is a growing film market and community in Ethiopia that should be taken seriously. We are also very pleased in the partnership we have had with the Ethiopian Film Initiative which provides on the ground training in Addis Ababa and are looking forward to expanding our programs into other parts of the developing world."
Henok Mebratuis an experienced filmmaker and a well-known figure among the Ethiopian creative community. His talents include directing documentaries and teaching media skills. In Cannes he will present a new movie drama he is working on. It tells the story of Kidist and Dawit, who were both raised abroad and whose lives are completely transformed by returning to Ethiopia to say farewell to their dying father.
Olisarali Olibui Tongolu co-produced an award-winning film, "Shooting with the Mursi", which gives an intriguing insider's view of his own tribe. In Cannes he will pitch his next project proposal "My Enemy, My Brother". Filming has already started on this project, which will focus on issues facing neighboring tribes of the Mursi. The themes to be covered include uncontrolled tourism, climate change and land rights.
Yidnekachew Shumete Desalegn is a widely respected film director in Addis Ababa, as well as a cameraman, editor, teacher and scriptwriter. He has worked extensively in both fiction and documentary films. His first feature film "Siryet" (2007), achieved widespread popularity. In Cannes he will pitch his upcoming film "Nishan" or Medal of Honour. It tells the story of Nishan, a young girl, who receives the rare opportunity of a visa to go abroad and change her life for the better. However, perplexing problems soon beset her.
“We’re very proud of our 2012 Ethiopian Film Initiative finalists,” states Mitch Levine, Iefta Executive Consultant. “These filmmakers have demonstrated a passion for their art, excellence in filmmaking and a commitment to the advancement of Ethiopia’s – and Africa’s – filmmaking community. We are thrilled to host them for a week of education, workshops and screenings at the Cannes Film Festival and at the Iefta’s base in Monaco.”
The Iefta and Efi form an international / Ethiopian partnership committed to raising the professional standards of the Ethiopian film industry. The Efi provides capacity building support for Ethiopian documentary and feature film producers and directors as well as encouraging and training local and international entities to use local filmmakers.
The Iefta – through its Global Film Expression and programs like the Ethiopian Film Initative – is dedicated to the discovery, nurture and promotion of filmmakers throughout the developing world. The Iefta has been supporting Emerging talent since 2006 and has been specifically supporting Ethiopian film since 2008.
The VIP fund-raising event was held at a beautiful Belle Époque villa in the heart of Monte Carlo which was covered in an Architectural Digest feature on the Villa Nocturne mansion.
Their experience began in Monte Carlo, the home base of the Iefta, when they attended a Benefit Dinner in their honor at the beautiful Villa Nocturne hosted by Iefta President Marco Orsini. Funders and supporters of the Iefta and Efi program were on hand as well as members of the international press and film industry who came in from Cannes for the event and to meet the filmmakers. Actor Billy Zane (“Titanic”) flew in from the U.S. to support the event and to serve as mentor for the filmmakers. Marco Orsini, President of the Iefta announced that Mr. Zane has joined the organization’s Advisory Board. He also announced that in addition to the focus on Ethiopia (begun in 2008) and its filmmaking community, the Iefta would also be broadening its educational outreach and support to include young emerging talent from other African nations beginning in Sierra Leone. The next day was spent in workshops, and meetings preparing the three for theirtrip to the Festival in Cannes where they were to meet the industry. Veteran Producer Mitch Levine guided them through discussions, trial pitching sessions and filmmaking workshops. That evening at Crem in Monte Carlo, the filmmakers screened their short films, to the public, program supporters, and local Monaco media. Following the screenings Billy Zane led the three in a discussion of their work, their filmmaking vision and the passion for their art, and commitment to the advancement of Ethiopia’s – and Africa’s – filmmaking community. On to Cannes and the 65th Cannes Film Festival where the three were immersed in the industry. From morning to night they traversed the Festival, guided by Mitch Levine. I gave a tour of the market to Henok, Olisarali and Yidney in which we discussed the lack of people of African descent as well as of women in the festival offerings. Olisari belongs to one of many, many tribes in Ethiopia and has traveled extensively in groups making films about aborigines. His next film is My Brother, My Enemy. Yidney has made a film about a young woman. Their representing the unrepresented makes me an enthusiastic supporter of them, the Iefta and of Marco for carrying on his work. They met and spoke with industry professionals such as Co-Director of the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival Cameron Bailey and his team of programmers specializing in Africa; Film Fund representatives from France and Norway whose funding programs specifically benefit the filmmakers’ region; Film Commissioners and Film Festival directors and programmers from Scandinavia, Europe, India, Canada, U.S. and elsewhere to speak about co-production opportunities as well as presenting their work to the public; distributors and acquisition executives who explained what they were looking for from the global marketplace to bring to their countries and audiences; public relations and marketing executives, as well as journalists and many many others. They had numerous opportunities of networking and attending receptions – where the real work of the festival is done – and talked, met and mingled with the world’s film industry. “As a filmmaker from a developing country, I used to wonder how things worked in the developed world,” says Yidnekachew Shumete, “and this trip gave me the inside look and on how industry professionals operate and how I can best use this new knowledge in my career. It was magnificent! It will be interesting to see if things will be the same when I get back home?” “I can simply say that these were the most efficient six days for my career,” says Henok Mebratu. “The experience has completely raised my confidence in the contexts of developing my work and pitching, selling, marketing and showing my films. Now, better knowing how the film industry works, I can upgrade my products to meet international standards.” “This trip to Monaco and Cannes was very impressive,” states Olisarali Olibui. “I have travelled to a lot of festivals, but I have never seen this type of program with all the workshops, seminars, and meetings for a filmmaker. I have learned a lot about distribution, co-productions, etc. As an indigenous person - I can now be instrumental in helping other indigenous filmmakers. It was so amazing. I appreciate the Efi and Iefta efforts - and for selecting my projects and me!! It was very strong work, and was much more than just an organized visit - but provided me with education, training and important contacts. I am looking forward to what the future will bring for this program and for me.” Ambassador Tadelech Haile-Michael, a founding member of the Efi in Ethiopia, says, “I want to underline the unique opportunities brought to the Ethiopian filmmakers and the Efi by the Monaco and Cannes visit and that it is now up to them to pursue their contacts. This was a special new experience both for the filmmakers and myself and we all benefited. Billy Zane’s participation and the commitment and kindness of the people working with Iefta was so touching it has inspired me to work more to strengthen our common dream of the Efi. Meeting heads ofinstitutions, film commissions, fund providers, film school directors and instructors and other different role players that can become Efi partners and help support in the creation of a film fund and/or a film school to benefit our emerging filmmakers was incredibly valuable.”...
- 8/10/2012
- by Sydney Levine
- Sydney's Buzz
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