DVD Releases 8/7/2012

The last month of the summer is here, but the DVD's are still coming out... 

Check it out below...

The Lorax (PG)

Blue Like Jazz (PG-13)

Bel Ami (R)

Stay tuned for more next week...

From book pages to reality..."Ruby Sparks"

Everyone wants to fall in love and in some cases it just happens, and in others you have to make it happen.

Ruby Sparks is a story of a struggling novelist and literary genius Calvin Weir-Fields (played by Paul Dano, Little Miss Sunshine & Knight and Day) who is trying to get past a writer’s block. And after having a dream about this amazing girl, Ruby Sparks (played by Zoe Kazan who takes on a dual role of writer and actor) Calvin brings the fantasy to life by writing about her, and as a result watching her become real person. Never does one imagine that your “dream girl” fantasy can actually become a reality, but in this case Calvin gets the best of both worlds. The premise of the film is a twist between simple and bizarre. It is simple in the fact that it tells a story of finding love, and bizarre in that an imaginary, driven dream girl is created in order to have this love.

Ruby Sparks is a film that evolves in what one might call a three-part story. First, we learn who Calvin is, next we see his struggle to write another literary masterpiece, and then we meet Ruby, from there the literary fantasy is no longer Calvin’s imagination but a situation that begins to take shape. Ruby Sparks is a quirky, romantic, whimsical story that emanates a sense of desire, charm, pain, and happiness from every direction. With directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris working with newcomer Zoe Kazan they all bring a balance of the reality of life combined with the mythical ingredients created inside of Calvin's impending pages.

First time screenwriter Zoe Kazan (HBO’s “Bored to Death”) should be commended for this film, as she was able to create an original story and have the ability to end it in a way that was not expected. Interestingly, Kazan leaves the movie-goer with some unanswered questions that should be unanswered, so as not to expect the typical romantic comedy ending. Not only has she created a novel film, but Kazan is also particularly charming as the film's title character, showing a range of acting talent that show a lot of promise as a rising star.

Although the film is centered on Dano and Kazan characters, there is definitely an excellent supporting cast that rounds out the film. With roles from Annette Bening (The Kids are All Right) as Calvin's hippy mother ‘Gertrude’, Antonio Banderas (Puss in Boots and Haywire) as her carpenter boyfriend ‘Mort’, some definite comic relief from actors Chris Messina (HBO’s “The Newsroom”) as Calvin’s voice of reason/heckler brother ‘Harry’, and Steve Coogan (The Other Guys) Calvin’s dysfunctional agent, and finally Calvin’s therapist Elliot Gould (Contagion), they each one in their own distinctive way add a great sense of complexity and feel to the film.

In addition to a brilliant cast, the cinematography should be a highlighted as well. Matthew Libatique, who is best known for his work with Jon Favreau, Darren Aronofsky and Spike Lee, brings a certain element of subtle gracefulness to the film. Everything from the scenes in the park to Calvin’s perfect condo provides a beautiful and technical backdrop.

Needless to say, there are some awkward moments during the film between Calvin and his family, his agent, and abrupt run-in with his ex-girlfriend, which may have flowed a little better had they been teased out a bit more. However, this may be due Kazan being a novice screenwriter.

Nonetheless, it’s not often that you find young, bright filmmakers, but Zoe Kazan is definitely on the rise with this introductory film effort. Ruby Sparks is not only a film about finding love, but also finding one’s self in this complex world. Overall, this is a likable film with a unique and innovative story.

Rating: 8 out of 10

A Documentary and The Olympics

What does a documentary film about the cultural significance of Jamaica and the 2012 London Olympics have in common? Well....

On Sunday, August 5th when millions (perhaps billions) will gather to watch the fastest men in the world battle for supremacy in the 100m at Olympic Stadium, a little-known film "Akwantu: the Journey," will make will make a splash in its European Premiere just minutes away at the Maryland Complex in Stratford, East London. Festival Jamaica 2012, the organizers of this screening, are well aware that many would like to see this battle of the sprint titans, so they have scheduled a live feed of the 100m semi-finals to be shown on the BIG screen at 7: 45 PM, before the film starts; and at the conclusion of this 87-minute epic documentary, will switch focus to the highly anticipated 100m final at 9: 50 PM. On this historic night in London the country's cultural and athletic ambassadors will be "Proudly Celebrating Jamaica." Go for the gold!

This will truly be a significant event considering the next day the country of Jamaica will be celebrating its 50th Year of Independence.

And for those of us who will be watching stateside check out the trailer for the film Akwantu: The Journey...

"Middle of Nowhere" Full Feature Trailer

Here is a film that has been on my radar for quite some time (at least a year or more!!), Ava DuVernay's second feature film, Middle of Nowhere. And just today the full feature trailer has been released. Let me just tell you I am soooo looking forward to this film, I can see so much promise!! For me this film is a modern day take on the 1964 film Nothing But a Man, but from a female point of view.


This may only be a trailer, but it packs mighty punch! See for yourself...

Middle of Nowhere debuts October 12, 2012!!

Brief Break...But I'm Back!!

Boy I tell ya life can get away from you sometimes, but it is always good when you can get back on track. In the midst of all my international travels, working on this thesis, and just trying to enjoy the summer, Black Savant Cinema got neglected just a little but not forgotten.  Stay tuned for new reviews, dvd releases, cinema news!!

Bonus Trailers of the Week

For all those that got a chance to see The Dark Knight Rises this past weekend, there were two bonus trailers that hit the screen...Man of Steel (2013) and The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)...

But just in case you have not been to the movies yet (shame on you to see TDKR...j/k lol) here it is for your viewing pleasure...

Man of Steel (2013)

   

In theaters June 14th, 2013

The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey (2012)

 

In theaters December 14th, 2012

Be On the Lookout Folks...Director Spotlight Ndosi Anyabwile

I am all about giving kudos to those who have made major moves and today's post is no different...

Georgia State University senior film major Ndosi Anyabwile will be making his way to Hollywood to showcase his two-minute film titled Spilled Milk. The film will be screened for "Best Picture" on June 21-23 during the Campus Moviefest (world's largest student film festival).

“This was the experience I needed to take control of what I want in life,” said Anyabwile, whose team name is Gorilla Tactix Entertainment. “Normally, if a contest like this came up I would let it pass me by out of fear that I'm not good enough. However, I realized that I should just make films regardless of what anyone thinks if I want to call myself a filmmaker.”


Anyabwile who also serves as the choreographer, director, editor, cinematographer, and visual effects artist on the film.


“I really enjoy having a finished project to share with people, and it is also great to watch your films improve after each film you make,” said Anyabwile, who has been making films since 2008. “I'm passionate about film because it is a great way for people to visualize what ideas are constantly bouncing around in my head.”


While in Hollywood he will also have the opportunity to attend numerous events including educational workshops and panels led by industry professionals, sneak peak screenings of Hollywood movies, and a red carpet awards ceremony.

That's what I call making things happen!! Watch out Hollywood!! Kudos to ya brotha!! Shine your light!

And for your viewing pleasure check out the feature film below...