Wow.
I finally caught up on all 10 hours of WWII in HD, broadcast on the History Channel. I have always been intrigued by this period in history and what was happening behind the battle scenes and around the world. Drawing on battlefield and archival footage discovered in a multi-year search and converted into high definition, the series provides a gripping account of the realities and horrors of war, and personalizes it by following the stories of 12 servicemen and women.
I couldn't stop watching it.
The footage was primarily broadcast in color, which gave the graphic scenes even more weight. For the first time, I could really understand the breadth of activity and timing of how the war played out across the globe. The series was produced by a family friend, so I am off to send a personal note commending him on such a grand achievement. Plus, a phone call to my father thanking him again for his service during WWII.
Definitely check out at least a part of this stunning documentary series when it is re-broadcast or on DVD.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
MJ
I finally caught This Is It, the documentary on Michael Jackson's final months preparing for his aborted comeback concert tour. Sad.
I've spent some of my career watching musical geniuses at work; it's always fascinating and frequently awe-inspiring. No less so watching Jackson work through musical numbers and inspiring others through his art. My favorite part of the film is the development of Thriller 2009 - the concert update (a merging of pre-filmed video with on-stage production) to Michael Jackson's most famous music video.
I mostly feel sorry for all of the young artists and technicians who also committed so much time and energy to the rehearsals without seeing their work and dreams fulfilled. I hope at least they can cherish the time spent interacting with and learning from the King of Pop.
It's too bad that we'll never experience the final concert hurrah of Michael Jackson, but it's comforting and fitting that through the lens of documentary film, we at least have a glimpse at what might have been and a last look at what we've had.
R.I.P. MJ.
I've spent some of my career watching musical geniuses at work; it's always fascinating and frequently awe-inspiring. No less so watching Jackson work through musical numbers and inspiring others through his art. My favorite part of the film is the development of Thriller 2009 - the concert update (a merging of pre-filmed video with on-stage production) to Michael Jackson's most famous music video.
I mostly feel sorry for all of the young artists and technicians who also committed so much time and energy to the rehearsals without seeing their work and dreams fulfilled. I hope at least they can cherish the time spent interacting with and learning from the King of Pop.
It's too bad that we'll never experience the final concert hurrah of Michael Jackson, but it's comforting and fitting that through the lens of documentary film, we at least have a glimpse at what might have been and a last look at what we've had.
R.I.P. MJ.
Friday, November 27, 2009
Photo
I love the art of photography, so was excited to visit the new Annenberg Space for Photography last weekend for the "Sport: Iooss & Leifer" exhibit. Spanning the careers of two legendary sports photographers, Walter Iooss and Neil Leifer, this cool exhibit features many famous photos and a digital feature documentary presentation about how they have captured high-action moments and athlete portraits in such brilliant detail and clarity. I particularly enjoyed the black and white photographs from the 1960s era in baseball and football, and the iconic ringside shots of Muhammed Ali. The Annenberg space itself is very modern and spacious, but is tucked inside a large professional complex without adequate signage, so plan your trip ahead of time.
The visit also reminded me of a terrific documentary on photography that I saw earlier this year at the DWELL on Design conference, Eric Bricker's Visual Acoustics: The Modernism of Julius Shulman. The film celebrates the career and life of this singular architectural photographer who hit his apex in the mid-20th century working for the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Richard Neutra. It also showcases many of the modern homes that Shulman captured in his luminous style. Julius Shulman recently passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 98, but I'm glad he lived to see this anthology of his life's work. His stunning photographs, including the iconic 1960 shot of Koenig's Case Study House #22 (The Stahl House), will surely live on. The Stahl House is now open for tours, by the way, which I recommend for its amazing views of Los Angeles.
A picture is definitely worth a thousand words.
The visit also reminded me of a terrific documentary on photography that I saw earlier this year at the DWELL on Design conference, Eric Bricker's Visual Acoustics: The Modernism of Julius Shulman. The film celebrates the career and life of this singular architectural photographer who hit his apex in the mid-20th century working for the likes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Richard Neutra. It also showcases many of the modern homes that Shulman captured in his luminous style. Julius Shulman recently passed away in Los Angeles at the age of 98, but I'm glad he lived to see this anthology of his life's work. His stunning photographs, including the iconic 1960 shot of Koenig's Case Study House #22 (The Stahl House), will surely live on. The Stahl House is now open for tours, by the way, which I recommend for its amazing views of Los Angeles.
A picture is definitely worth a thousand words.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Thanks
On a day of giving thanks and remembering our country's heritage, I am finally getting around to reading Nathaniel Philbrick's Mayflower, the capitvating history of the Pilgrim's settlement of Plymouth. It dispels many of our cherished myths about this time to bring a more realistic and unsanitized account of what these settlers endured - and provoked.
I also have my DVR set to record the television documentary, Home for the Holidays: The History of Thanksgiving, on the History Channel. This should be a cool reminder of how we have celebrated this day over the centuries - including the First Thanksgiving as a reverent occasion, cherising survival and looking to the future.
In the meantime, I am giving thanks - for friends, family, good health and tidings, and documentaries that tell it like it is.
I also have my DVR set to record the television documentary, Home for the Holidays: The History of Thanksgiving, on the History Channel. This should be a cool reminder of how we have celebrated this day over the centuries - including the First Thanksgiving as a reverent occasion, cherising survival and looking to the future.
In the meantime, I am giving thanks - for friends, family, good health and tidings, and documentaries that tell it like it is.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
il Cinema
Here's what I did not do last Saturday - attend the Cinema Italian Style festival at my local theatre, which I had been eagerly anticipating all month. Instead, I spent the evening at the vet ER with my dog after another one of her recent spate of Marley and Me type adventures. Luckily, my puppy is OK and there is always il cinema via DVD.
I had been scheduled to see the new documentary, Hollywood on the Tiber (Hollywood Sul Tevere), about the glamorous mid-century era when Rome rivaled Hollywood as a film capital. When names like Fellini, Loren, and Mastroianni were on par with Bogart, Bergman, and Brando, and films such as Roman Holiday and Ben Hur were brought to life in all their Italian grandeur. The black and white publicity stills look fabulous. Alas, another day.
Ciao for now.
I had been scheduled to see the new documentary, Hollywood on the Tiber (Hollywood Sul Tevere), about the glamorous mid-century era when Rome rivaled Hollywood as a film capital. When names like Fellini, Loren, and Mastroianni were on par with Bogart, Bergman, and Brando, and films such as Roman Holiday and Ben Hur were brought to life in all their Italian grandeur. The black and white publicity stills look fabulous. Alas, another day.
Ciao for now.
Monday, November 16, 2009
Python
I love British humor. It's often an acquired taste for Americans, but I can thank my brother for introducing me to the joys of the iconic Monty Python troupe in the mid-70s before I was old enough to even understand the depths of their satirically subversive comedy.
I spent a lazy Sunday catching up on some more of my DVR queue, with IFC's recent 6-hour documentary, Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut). It offers quite an extended (maybe more time than truly needed) look at the history of these comic pioneers. John Cleese, Eric Idle, Michael Palin, the late Graham Chapman, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam are still influencing comedians with their biting social commentary disguised as sketch comedy, and enveloped with Gilliam's wonderfully weird and surreal animation. Their game-changing BBC television series led to popular feature films, albums (some of which I had the pleasure of working on during their re-release), and one of my favorite Broadway shows in recent memory, Spamalot. It was great fun to revisit some of their most memorable moments and the creative process of this brilliant group.
Catch it on IFC and remember, "Always Look On the Bright Side of Life"!
I spent a lazy Sunday catching up on some more of my DVR queue, with IFC's recent 6-hour documentary, Monty Python: Almost the Truth (The Lawyer's Cut). It offers quite an extended (maybe more time than truly needed) look at the history of these comic pioneers. John Cleese, Eric Idle, Michael Palin, the late Graham Chapman, Terry Jones and Terry Gilliam are still influencing comedians with their biting social commentary disguised as sketch comedy, and enveloped with Gilliam's wonderfully weird and surreal animation. Their game-changing BBC television series led to popular feature films, albums (some of which I had the pleasure of working on during their re-release), and one of my favorite Broadway shows in recent memory, Spamalot. It was great fun to revisit some of their most memorable moments and the creative process of this brilliant group.
Catch it on IFC and remember, "Always Look On the Bright Side of Life"!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Queue
I am finally catching up on my DVR queue. After my Tivo died this spring, I realized my that new DVR doesn't have the incredible feature of allowing me to fast forward on slow speed while the captions are on to skim through a show. Thus, I have been backlogged on the copious amounts of documentaries in line to be viewed. Here are the recent highlights that I think are worth catching when they are re-aired:
HBO has been airing a number of great docs lately: Schmatta: Rags to Riches to Rags, details the rich history and unfortunate decline of the Garment District in NYC. Its rise helped build America's middle class and labor movement in the early 20th century; its decline has mirrored and helped to drive our current state of economic despair. In 1965, 95% of American clothing was manufactured here in the U.S.; today only 5% is. That's staggering.
Outrage examines the hypocracy of closeted gay politicians who vote against and speak out against gay rights issues. It's really wild. The film is directed by Kirby Dick, who also made This Film Is Not Yet Rated, about the strange and shielded methods behind the MPAA ratings system.
By the People: the Election of Barack Obama follows the candid, dramatic and moving moments behind this historic and inspirational campaign. The campaign success was driven not only by the charismatic Obama, but by a strategic, idealistic and largely youthful staff of devoted advisors and followers. My favorite is the little 9-year old volunteer who helped work the phones. Classic.
PBS has also had a number of strong docs on its programming lineup, including Inventing LA: The Chandlers and Their Times - a fascinating saga about the rise of Los Angeles - driven by the determination, power and hubris of the family that built the Los Angeles Times, now on a downward spiral. It's a really cool film for LA history buffs, particularly the Chandlers' sordid activities as the model for one of my favorite films, Chinatown, and the background of Dorothy Chandler's continued influence on arts and culture in the city. It's juicy stuff.
I also watched all four hours of the energetic Latin Music USA, which traces the history of Latin jazz, mambo, cha cha cha, salsa, Chicano rock, Tejano, Latin pop and reggaeton. Wow. All the way from the NYC clubs of the early 20th century to Santana's LSD-laced debut at Woodstock to Ricky Martin Livin' La Vida Loca at the Grammys. It had me dancing in the aisles (ok, my living room).
Finally, I am enjoying ESPN Films' 30 for 30 sports documentary series of 30 films celebrating the network's 30th anniversary. I watched The Band That Wouldn't Die, a heartwarming film directed by Barry Levinson about the Baltimore Colt's marching band, which kept the spirit alive for a football franchise return after the team's defection to Indianapolis in the '80s.
Whew.
HBO has been airing a number of great docs lately: Schmatta: Rags to Riches to Rags, details the rich history and unfortunate decline of the Garment District in NYC. Its rise helped build America's middle class and labor movement in the early 20th century; its decline has mirrored and helped to drive our current state of economic despair. In 1965, 95% of American clothing was manufactured here in the U.S.; today only 5% is. That's staggering.
Outrage examines the hypocracy of closeted gay politicians who vote against and speak out against gay rights issues. It's really wild. The film is directed by Kirby Dick, who also made This Film Is Not Yet Rated, about the strange and shielded methods behind the MPAA ratings system.
By the People: the Election of Barack Obama follows the candid, dramatic and moving moments behind this historic and inspirational campaign. The campaign success was driven not only by the charismatic Obama, but by a strategic, idealistic and largely youthful staff of devoted advisors and followers. My favorite is the little 9-year old volunteer who helped work the phones. Classic.
PBS has also had a number of strong docs on its programming lineup, including Inventing LA: The Chandlers and Their Times - a fascinating saga about the rise of Los Angeles - driven by the determination, power and hubris of the family that built the Los Angeles Times, now on a downward spiral. It's a really cool film for LA history buffs, particularly the Chandlers' sordid activities as the model for one of my favorite films, Chinatown, and the background of Dorothy Chandler's continued influence on arts and culture in the city. It's juicy stuff.
I also watched all four hours of the energetic Latin Music USA, which traces the history of Latin jazz, mambo, cha cha cha, salsa, Chicano rock, Tejano, Latin pop and reggaeton. Wow. All the way from the NYC clubs of the early 20th century to Santana's LSD-laced debut at Woodstock to Ricky Martin Livin' La Vida Loca at the Grammys. It had me dancing in the aisles (ok, my living room).
Finally, I am enjoying ESPN Films' 30 for 30 sports documentary series of 30 films celebrating the network's 30th anniversary. I watched The Band That Wouldn't Die, a heartwarming film directed by Barry Levinson about the Baltimore Colt's marching band, which kept the spirit alive for a football franchise return after the team's defection to Indianapolis in the '80s.
Whew.
Monday, November 2, 2009
Hoops
Basketball season is once again upon us - which reminds me of the wonderful new documentary, More Than a Game.
I had read a Vanity Fair excerpt from LeBron James' autobiographical account of his rise as a high school basketball star, Shooting Stars, (co-written by Buzz Bissinger, who wrote Friday Night Lights), so was really excited to see the documentary account of it as well. The story of LeBron and his teammates in Akron, Ohio - the Fab Five - is brought to life by first-time director Kristopher Belman, who personally followed the team around for several years as part of a documentary class at one of my alma maters, Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
The film shows the Fab Five overcoming many individual and team adversities and challenges to rise to the top of their sport. It has a definite Hoop Dreams quality to it, in that both are less about the game of basketball and more about the love, friendship and dedication that surround it. With rare interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, More Than a Game is as personal and inspirational a film as you will find all year.
Time to settle in for some hoops action.
I had read a Vanity Fair excerpt from LeBron James' autobiographical account of his rise as a high school basketball star, Shooting Stars, (co-written by Buzz Bissinger, who wrote Friday Night Lights), so was really excited to see the documentary account of it as well. The story of LeBron and his teammates in Akron, Ohio - the Fab Five - is brought to life by first-time director Kristopher Belman, who personally followed the team around for several years as part of a documentary class at one of my alma maters, Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles.
The film shows the Fab Five overcoming many individual and team adversities and challenges to rise to the top of their sport. It has a definite Hoop Dreams quality to it, in that both are less about the game of basketball and more about the love, friendship and dedication that surround it. With rare interviews and behind-the-scenes footage, More Than a Game is as personal and inspirational a film as you will find all year.
Time to settle in for some hoops action.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Wild
I wasn't so wild about Where the Wild Things Are.
Granted, I am likely no longer the audience target for the film, but I'm not completely sure who is. I loved Maurice Sendak's classic 1963 book when I was young, as I imagine many other adults in the audience did as well. It always seemed ahead of its time. There were a lot of small children around when I saw the film, but I don't think they are the target audience either. At least I hope not - it's a bit dark and intense for young viewers. More likely, Warner Bros. is aiming for older kids and hipster young adults with a bit of retro nostalgia. The lead character in the film adaptation appears to need counseling more than a wild rumbus - or at least the benefit of a stronger ending. The film is beautifully shot, though, so hats off to Lance Acord, the cinematographer.
I was more intrigued by Lance Bangs' and Spike Jones' cool companion documentary for HBO, Tell Them Anything You Want: A Portrait of Maurice Sendak. It's a revealing and intimate portrait of the life and career of this visionary curmudgeon, who talks about death a lot and isn't particularly fond of children. The film has already been shortlisted for the Academy Awards documentary-short category via a brief, qualifying theatrical run in LA recently.
Now that's wild.
Granted, I am likely no longer the audience target for the film, but I'm not completely sure who is. I loved Maurice Sendak's classic 1963 book when I was young, as I imagine many other adults in the audience did as well. It always seemed ahead of its time. There were a lot of small children around when I saw the film, but I don't think they are the target audience either. At least I hope not - it's a bit dark and intense for young viewers. More likely, Warner Bros. is aiming for older kids and hipster young adults with a bit of retro nostalgia. The lead character in the film adaptation appears to need counseling more than a wild rumbus - or at least the benefit of a stronger ending. The film is beautifully shot, though, so hats off to Lance Acord, the cinematographer.
I was more intrigued by Lance Bangs' and Spike Jones' cool companion documentary for HBO, Tell Them Anything You Want: A Portrait of Maurice Sendak. It's a revealing and intimate portrait of the life and career of this visionary curmudgeon, who talks about death a lot and isn't particularly fond of children. The film has already been shortlisted for the Academy Awards documentary-short category via a brief, qualifying theatrical run in LA recently.
Now that's wild.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Speech
Free speech issues seem to bubbling up a lot lately in our post 9/11 world and with the rise of social media on the internet. I recently caught an absorbing HBO documentary on the subject, Shouting Fire: Stories From the Edge of Free Speech.
Filmmaker Liz Garbus uses interviews with her father, famed First Amendment attorney Martin Garbus, to wrap some key recent situations where free speech has been under attack. She also examines and provides some cool footage of historically significant cases that her father was involved with, including the Pentagon Papers and the Nazi march in Skokie, Illinois. Haven't thought about those since my freshman law class at SU.
It would have been great to see the topic expanded a bit, but on the whole, the film serves as an important reminder that protecting free speech means also protecting speech we oppose. It is also interesting to ponder how much free speech we really have in our media-driven and hyper-sensitive country these days vs. what our founding fathers may have envisioned in drafting the Bill of Rights. Which reminds me, I still need to read Ellen Alderman and Caroline Kennedy's book, In Our Defense: The Bill of Rights in Action, to see what other atrocities have been committed against our national brochure for great living.
Did I say that out loud?
Filmmaker Liz Garbus uses interviews with her father, famed First Amendment attorney Martin Garbus, to wrap some key recent situations where free speech has been under attack. She also examines and provides some cool footage of historically significant cases that her father was involved with, including the Pentagon Papers and the Nazi march in Skokie, Illinois. Haven't thought about those since my freshman law class at SU.
It would have been great to see the topic expanded a bit, but on the whole, the film serves as an important reminder that protecting free speech means also protecting speech we oppose. It is also interesting to ponder how much free speech we really have in our media-driven and hyper-sensitive country these days vs. what our founding fathers may have envisioned in drafting the Bill of Rights. Which reminds me, I still need to read Ellen Alderman and Caroline Kennedy's book, In Our Defense: The Bill of Rights in Action, to see what other atrocities have been committed against our national brochure for great living.
Did I say that out loud?
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Art
I am an unabashed, lifelong art fan, lucky enough to have lived in and visited many of the greatest cities in the world celebrating this amazing medium.
The PBS series, Independent Lens, is kicking off its 2009-2010 season tonight with one of my favorite documentaries of the year. Herb and Dorothy chronicles the adventures of Herb and Dorothy Vogel, who have spent their married life of over 40 years together quietly amassing one of the world's most important and richest private contemporary art collections. Not so extraordinary until you consider that they are a now-retired postal worker and librarian living in a tiny, one-bedroom NYC apartment.
Since the 1960s, the couple has lived on Dorothy's paycheck and spent Herb's collecting the works of unknown artists (many now masters), primarily focusing on Minimalist and Conceptual art that was largely ignored in the early days. They eventually managed to acquire several thousand works of art, all stored in their apartment from floor to ceiling. And they have never sold a single piece! It's a fantastic and almost poignant tale captured by first-time filmmaker, Megumi Sasaki.
An incredible true story about finding one's passion in life and defying stereotypes. Definitely check it out - the Vogels had me smiling for days. :)
The PBS series, Independent Lens, is kicking off its 2009-2010 season tonight with one of my favorite documentaries of the year. Herb and Dorothy chronicles the adventures of Herb and Dorothy Vogel, who have spent their married life of over 40 years together quietly amassing one of the world's most important and richest private contemporary art collections. Not so extraordinary until you consider that they are a now-retired postal worker and librarian living in a tiny, one-bedroom NYC apartment.
Since the 1960s, the couple has lived on Dorothy's paycheck and spent Herb's collecting the works of unknown artists (many now masters), primarily focusing on Minimalist and Conceptual art that was largely ignored in the early days. They eventually managed to acquire several thousand works of art, all stored in their apartment from floor to ceiling. And they have never sold a single piece! It's a fantastic and almost poignant tale captured by first-time filmmaker, Megumi Sasaki.
An incredible true story about finding one's passion in life and defying stereotypes. Definitely check it out - the Vogels had me smiling for days. :)
Monday, October 5, 2009
September
September flew by.
Which is why I am writing a September update in October. I had difficulty finding time to blog about docs in between all of my actual doc adventures!
I finally finished my short doc - came down to the wire on that one, but I completed it and am fairly pleased with the results. Speaking of wire, check out the mesmerizing documentary Man on Wire now out on DVD. It's the wild tale of an eccentric Frenchmen's tightrope walk between NYC's Twin Towers in 1974, and now an Oscar-winning doc at that.
I volunteered on National Service Day, completely by accident. Volunteering is good - even the President thinks so. I moderated a documentary film screening and discussion of Valentino: The Last Emperor at the local senior center in town, not even realizing it was a national day of service. I love this doc - it is such a visually rich and stylized look at the final chapter of the iconic fashion designer's career and dynamic life with his partner, Giancarlo Giammetti. Plus there are pugs. A great effort by Matt Tyrnauer of Vanity Fair, and a good time was had by all.
I attended the terrific new Westdoc conference - I got to soak up the wonderful world of documentaries and meet many faces in this exciting arena. Yay!
I stumbled into a new year, and celebrated in part by screening The September Issue, RJ Cutler's behind-the-scenes look at the world of Anna Wintour and Vogue. Delicious!
I did a jig over to my local theatre's Irish Film Festival, and screened a few doc shorts - The Boys of St. Columb's, about the school that advanced some of Ireland's most famous sons in modern culture, and Raise The Last Glass, which follows the closing of the country's legendary Waterford crystal factory.
Finally, I enjoyed (like I hope everyone else did), the epic PBS doc, The National Parks: America's Best Idea. It was stunning on HD, and inspired me to start planning a trip to Yosemite to check out the park and the Ahwahnee Hotel. I adored visiting Yellowstone years ago and encountering the bison which blocked my car, so I can't wait to enjoy its California counterpart - and hope to make it to more of these treasured areas in the future.
I'm ready to move on to October and more doc fun!
Which is why I am writing a September update in October. I had difficulty finding time to blog about docs in between all of my actual doc adventures!
I finally finished my short doc - came down to the wire on that one, but I completed it and am fairly pleased with the results. Speaking of wire, check out the mesmerizing documentary Man on Wire now out on DVD. It's the wild tale of an eccentric Frenchmen's tightrope walk between NYC's Twin Towers in 1974, and now an Oscar-winning doc at that.
I volunteered on National Service Day, completely by accident. Volunteering is good - even the President thinks so. I moderated a documentary film screening and discussion of Valentino: The Last Emperor at the local senior center in town, not even realizing it was a national day of service. I love this doc - it is such a visually rich and stylized look at the final chapter of the iconic fashion designer's career and dynamic life with his partner, Giancarlo Giammetti. Plus there are pugs. A great effort by Matt Tyrnauer of Vanity Fair, and a good time was had by all.
I attended the terrific new Westdoc conference - I got to soak up the wonderful world of documentaries and meet many faces in this exciting arena. Yay!
I stumbled into a new year, and celebrated in part by screening The September Issue, RJ Cutler's behind-the-scenes look at the world of Anna Wintour and Vogue. Delicious!
I did a jig over to my local theatre's Irish Film Festival, and screened a few doc shorts - The Boys of St. Columb's, about the school that advanced some of Ireland's most famous sons in modern culture, and Raise The Last Glass, which follows the closing of the country's legendary Waterford crystal factory.
Finally, I enjoyed (like I hope everyone else did), the epic PBS doc, The National Parks: America's Best Idea. It was stunning on HD, and inspired me to start planning a trip to Yosemite to check out the park and the Ahwahnee Hotel. I adored visiting Yellowstone years ago and encountering the bison which blocked my car, so I can't wait to enjoy its California counterpart - and hope to make it to more of these treasured areas in the future.
I'm ready to move on to October and more doc fun!
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Advertising
Just Do It.
Be Different.
Sage advice, or merely revolutionary advertising slogans? Or both?
Art & Copy is an entertaining new documentary that steps inside the world and minds of some of the most legendary creative advertising executives in history. Having worked in and around the advertising industry during my career, I was quite interested in learning more about the visionaries who mastered the art of selling - and who made a significant impact on our culture (whether we like it or not). In particular, I've long admired Mary Wells Lawrence (featured in the doc) for her gutsy nature and groundbreaking advertising work - check out her colorful autobiography, A Big Life in Advertising.
I'm also still engrossed in the ever sublime Mad Men show on AMC, which is set in the world of New York's Madison Avenue advertising in the '60s, but is really about the peeled-back layers of society as it was then - with some lessons for the present. It's simply television at its finest.
During the Art & Copy panel, the film's director Doug Pray mentioned that when asked about Mad Men, the consensus from the real ad icons who lived that life in the '60s was that the show - while an excellent series - doesn't truly capture the intensity and creativity of Madison Avenue during that era. Guess I will just have to make do with great television and a little imagination.
I ♥ NY (revolutionary advertising slogan and truth).
Be Different.
Sage advice, or merely revolutionary advertising slogans? Or both?
Art & Copy is an entertaining new documentary that steps inside the world and minds of some of the most legendary creative advertising executives in history. Having worked in and around the advertising industry during my career, I was quite interested in learning more about the visionaries who mastered the art of selling - and who made a significant impact on our culture (whether we like it or not). In particular, I've long admired Mary Wells Lawrence (featured in the doc) for her gutsy nature and groundbreaking advertising work - check out her colorful autobiography, A Big Life in Advertising.
I'm also still engrossed in the ever sublime Mad Men show on AMC, which is set in the world of New York's Madison Avenue advertising in the '60s, but is really about the peeled-back layers of society as it was then - with some lessons for the present. It's simply television at its finest.
During the Art & Copy panel, the film's director Doug Pray mentioned that when asked about Mad Men, the consensus from the real ad icons who lived that life in the '60s was that the show - while an excellent series - doesn't truly capture the intensity and creativity of Madison Avenue during that era. Guess I will just have to make do with great television and a little imagination.
I ♥ NY (revolutionary advertising slogan and truth).
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
L.A. Story
I spent my Labor Day weekend laboring over my documentary short film, due this week. It's almost complete, and I've upped my novice technical game considerably with my editing system. Finally.
On Sunday, I took a much needed break from working on this historical documentary of my city to check out a local screening of another historical documentary on the Los Angeles area - the 2003 film, Los Angeles Plays Itself. This terrific film essays Los Angeles as it has been depicted on film throughout history - as subject and character, backdrop and muse.
Some of my favorite locations and architectural landmarks in the city are highlighted in this nearly 3 hour opus. Director Thom Andersen makes some keen insights, such as the fact that George Kennedy seemed to be in every L.A. disaster movie of the '70s. I presume that the reason the documentary sadly is not planned for DVD release is due to rights issues for all of the film clips and music. It seemed like most of Los Angeles tried to squeeze into the theatre to see this rare showing, introduced by Andersen. The screening sold out both nights it was
playing; I hope it will be brought back again so more people can see this absorbing and layered look at the city most captured on film.
If you get a chance to see it on the big screen, definitely check out this cool L.A. story.
On Sunday, I took a much needed break from working on this historical documentary of my city to check out a local screening of another historical documentary on the Los Angeles area - the 2003 film, Los Angeles Plays Itself. This terrific film essays Los Angeles as it has been depicted on film throughout history - as subject and character, backdrop and muse.
Some of my favorite locations and architectural landmarks in the city are highlighted in this nearly 3 hour opus. Director Thom Andersen makes some keen insights, such as the fact that George Kennedy seemed to be in every L.A. disaster movie of the '70s. I presume that the reason the documentary sadly is not planned for DVD release is due to rights issues for all of the film clips and music. It seemed like most of Los Angeles tried to squeeze into the theatre to see this rare showing, introduced by Andersen. The screening sold out both nights it was
playing; I hope it will be brought back again so more people can see this absorbing and layered look at the city most captured on film.
If you get a chance to see it on the big screen, definitely check out this cool L.A. story.
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Youth
You're only as young as you feel - or these days, as young as you look.
A few weeks back, I saw a screening of Youth Knows No Pain, a new documentary on the $60 billion anti-aging industry. It is currently airing on the aforementioned HBO Documentary Films summer series. Bear in mind that I saw the film in Hollywood, which I'm guessing may be ground zero of the youth market. There seemed to be a lot of nervous people around, waiting to hear what Pandora's Box this film was going to open.
Mitch McCabe, documentarian and beauty-product obsessed daughter of a deceased plastic surgeon, examines the world of anti-aging and her own history with it. Along the way, she meets some eclectic characters who are also determined to hang on to their youth - any way that they can.
The film is certain to stir up some debate about our society's youth-obsessed culture and fears of aging. As for me, I was most interested to learn that you can get facial lines from drinking out of water bottles (yes, I know, another reason to give that up). I haven't gone down the anti-aging road yet aside from the lotions and potions that start and end my day, but the film did make me think twice about some of those little lines right there...
Excuse me while I go look in the mirror.
A few weeks back, I saw a screening of Youth Knows No Pain, a new documentary on the $60 billion anti-aging industry. It is currently airing on the aforementioned HBO Documentary Films summer series. Bear in mind that I saw the film in Hollywood, which I'm guessing may be ground zero of the youth market. There seemed to be a lot of nervous people around, waiting to hear what Pandora's Box this film was going to open.
Mitch McCabe, documentarian and beauty-product obsessed daughter of a deceased plastic surgeon, examines the world of anti-aging and her own history with it. Along the way, she meets some eclectic characters who are also determined to hang on to their youth - any way that they can.
The film is certain to stir up some debate about our society's youth-obsessed culture and fears of aging. As for me, I was most interested to learn that you can get facial lines from drinking out of water bottles (yes, I know, another reason to give that up). I haven't gone down the anti-aging road yet aside from the lotions and potions that start and end my day, but the film did make me think twice about some of those little lines right there...
Excuse me while I go look in the mirror.
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Climb
Trying to beat the heat, I ducked into the Autry Museum (of the American West) yesterday while I was waiting for my friend's event to start outside. I'm glad that I did, as I stumbled upon a really cool exhibit on the history of rock climbing at Yosemite.
I learned all about how the techniques and equipment have evolved in the nearly 150 years since naturalist John Muir pioneered climbs in this region. There was even the iconic Teddy Roosevelt-John Muir photo from the book that I am reading on display. Now I finally know what carabiners, pitons and cams are, and how to use them - in case I am ever in a tight spot.
It reminded me of this great documentary that I saw a few months ago, Blindsight. It's a nail-biting film about renowned blind mountain climber Erik Weihenmayer, who led a group of blind Tibetan teens - outcasts in their society - to climb Mount Everest. If any story illustrates the "Yes, we can" philosophy better, I'm sure I haven't found it yet. It's an incredibly inspiring film on many levels.
I want to check out some of the other great climbing docs like Touching the Void, and a few, like Vertical Frontier and To the Limit, that specifically highlight Yosemite climbing.
In another story of an uphill climb (sort of), my last two blog feed emails haven't been coming through, so I'm hoping the third time is a charm.
Day by day, step by step. We'll get there.
I learned all about how the techniques and equipment have evolved in the nearly 150 years since naturalist John Muir pioneered climbs in this region. There was even the iconic Teddy Roosevelt-John Muir photo from the book that I am reading on display. Now I finally know what carabiners, pitons and cams are, and how to use them - in case I am ever in a tight spot.
It reminded me of this great documentary that I saw a few months ago, Blindsight. It's a nail-biting film about renowned blind mountain climber Erik Weihenmayer, who led a group of blind Tibetan teens - outcasts in their society - to climb Mount Everest. If any story illustrates the "Yes, we can" philosophy better, I'm sure I haven't found it yet. It's an incredibly inspiring film on many levels.
I want to check out some of the other great climbing docs like Touching the Void, and a few, like Vertical Frontier and To the Limit, that specifically highlight Yosemite climbing.
In another story of an uphill climb (sort of), my last two blog feed emails haven't been coming through, so I'm hoping the third time is a charm.
Day by day, step by step. We'll get there.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Woodstock
I finally made it to Woodstock this week. I didn't attend the festival 40 years ago (this month), nor was I the Woodstock baby (missed it by a few weeks, a few hundred miles and the fact that my parents wouldn't have been caught dead there). No, I finally caught up with the legendary event via film and documentaries - the next best thing to being there.
I started my Woodstock week by attending a screening of the new Ang Lee film, Taking Woodstock, about how the whole crazy thing came to take place on Max Yasgur's farm. It has good intentions, a stellar cast and some fun moments, but it's nothing like the real thing.
Save your money instead to rent the newly enhanced Woodstock director's cut version now out on DVD. Last night, I attended a screening of Michael Wadleigh's iconic film at my local theatre. The documentary clocks in at nearly four hours, but it was worth the time to see it on the big screen. I had never even seen the theatrical cut all the way through on any medium, so this was a special treat. While I was watching it, I kept thinking how different the Woodstock experience would have been today, in the age of instant media and communication. I loved the scene of concertgoers standing in line at pay phones to call home.
The film won an Oscar in 1970 for Best Documentary Feature, and was one of the early editing collaborations of Martin Scorcese and Thelma Schoonmaker. It combines a fantastic anthropological study of the experience with incredible music and photography. Joe Cocker's kinetic energy, Janis Joplin's raw emotion, Jimi Hendrix's electricity. All unforgettable. These legends and many others all shared the music scene when it was idealistic and authentic. We won't see the likes of them again.
I also checked out the VH1 Rock Docs and History Channel broadcast collaboration of Oscar-winning director Barbara Kopple's Woodstock: Now & Then, which canvasses the event from the recollections of key participants and fans who came together on a farm all those years ago for 3 days of music and peace.
Peace out.
I started my Woodstock week by attending a screening of the new Ang Lee film, Taking Woodstock, about how the whole crazy thing came to take place on Max Yasgur's farm. It has good intentions, a stellar cast and some fun moments, but it's nothing like the real thing.
Save your money instead to rent the newly enhanced Woodstock director's cut version now out on DVD. Last night, I attended a screening of Michael Wadleigh's iconic film at my local theatre. The documentary clocks in at nearly four hours, but it was worth the time to see it on the big screen. I had never even seen the theatrical cut all the way through on any medium, so this was a special treat. While I was watching it, I kept thinking how different the Woodstock experience would have been today, in the age of instant media and communication. I loved the scene of concertgoers standing in line at pay phones to call home.
The film won an Oscar in 1970 for Best Documentary Feature, and was one of the early editing collaborations of Martin Scorcese and Thelma Schoonmaker. It combines a fantastic anthropological study of the experience with incredible music and photography. Joe Cocker's kinetic energy, Janis Joplin's raw emotion, Jimi Hendrix's electricity. All unforgettable. These legends and many others all shared the music scene when it was idealistic and authentic. We won't see the likes of them again.
I also checked out the VH1 Rock Docs and History Channel broadcast collaboration of Oscar-winning director Barbara Kopple's Woodstock: Now & Then, which canvasses the event from the recollections of key participants and fans who came together on a farm all those years ago for 3 days of music and peace.
Peace out.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Bicycles
Bicycle haiku:
Shiny, red, two wheels.
My bicycle waits for me.
Lingers in garage.
I finally dragged my bike out of the garage last weekend. It only took 7 years. Pumped up the tires (mostly by hand, with a little help from the bike shop down the street), then joined a local bike tour of the arts in town. It was so fun and easy - there is a designated bike path from my house all the way to the beach, for crying out loud! I resolve to do this more often, in lieu of haiku laments.
I am going to check out the Bicycle Film Festival in LA tomorrow, which I learned about on my tour. I had never heard of such a thing, but apparently it has been around for several years, travelling to many cities around the world and celebrating the bicycle through music, art and film. Whaddya know. There are a few bicycle documentaries (features and shorts) on the slate, so you know where I will be.
Next stop, Tour de France!
Shiny, red, two wheels.
My bicycle waits for me.
Lingers in garage.
I finally dragged my bike out of the garage last weekend. It only took 7 years. Pumped up the tires (mostly by hand, with a little help from the bike shop down the street), then joined a local bike tour of the arts in town. It was so fun and easy - there is a designated bike path from my house all the way to the beach, for crying out loud! I resolve to do this more often, in lieu of haiku laments.
I am going to check out the Bicycle Film Festival in LA tomorrow, which I learned about on my tour. I had never heard of such a thing, but apparently it has been around for several years, travelling to many cities around the world and celebrating the bicycle through music, art and film. Whaddya know. There are a few bicycle documentaries (features and shorts) on the slate, so you know where I will be.
Next stop, Tour de France!
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Earth
Our magnificent planet earth is top of mind today. It should always be top of mind, but two earth-focused documentaries have given me a swift kick reminder that sometimes I am slacking off in this department.
Last night, I attended a screening of the new documentary Earth Days. This enlightening film details the origins of the modern environmental movement in America - starting in the post-WWII era - from the perspectives of several key figures that helped drive it forward. Oddly, the film doesn't carry the story completely through to the 21st century, but it does provide real insight into how many of our present problems, policies, and protection efforts came to be.
Tonight, I stumbled upon the re-airing of Discovery Channel's landmark 2007 documentary series, Planet Earth (which originally aired on the BBC in 2006). I missed it the first few times around, so I'm thrilled to catch this most definitive look at our planet again on the network's schedule - especially now that I can watch it on my HD tv. The series starts tonight and runs through early September. It's don't-miss tv and quite simply, breathtaking.
I guess I know what I will be doing for the next few weeks - keeping the earth top of mind. Which I should have been doing anyway.
Last night, I attended a screening of the new documentary Earth Days. This enlightening film details the origins of the modern environmental movement in America - starting in the post-WWII era - from the perspectives of several key figures that helped drive it forward. Oddly, the film doesn't carry the story completely through to the 21st century, but it does provide real insight into how many of our present problems, policies, and protection efforts came to be.
Tonight, I stumbled upon the re-airing of Discovery Channel's landmark 2007 documentary series, Planet Earth (which originally aired on the BBC in 2006). I missed it the first few times around, so I'm thrilled to catch this most definitive look at our planet again on the network's schedule - especially now that I can watch it on my HD tv. The series starts tonight and runs through early September. It's don't-miss tv and quite simply, breathtaking.
I guess I know what I will be doing for the next few weeks - keeping the earth top of mind. Which I should have been doing anyway.
Hearts
I have recently screened a trio of fine films this summer that each chronicle the intersection of two hearts. These range from a purely fictional story of a year-long-and-then-some romance, a quasi-documentary briefly following a "is it real or not" romance, and an amazing true documentary of a romance that grew out of the harshest of historical circumstances to last over half a century.
A few weeks ago, I went to see the delightfully charming and inventive fictional film, 500 Days of Summer. It's a post-modern, straight-shooter of a (sort-of) love story, with an engaging pair of leads in Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. I hope they pair up again on film.
One of the trailers before that movie was for Paper Heart, a quasi-documentary starring Charlene Yi and Michael Cera, members of the Judd Apatow cinematic troupe. I had regretfully missed a screening of the film at the Los Angeles Film Festival in June, so was quite happy to see it picked up for release this month. The film details non-believer Yi's quest to uncover whether true love really exists. Along the way, she meets Cera and they embark on a romance that may or may not be real. Mixing documentary with storytelling, the film is a sweet offering of love in many forms.
Steal a Pencil For Me, is an enthralling documentary adaptation of the book of the same name. The film, which aired on PBS Independent Lens earlier this year, chronicles the incredible true love story of two Dutch Holocaust survivors. Jack (Jaap) Polak and Ina Soep fall in love in a concentration camp, but must carry on their love affair through heart-wrenching letters as they struggle to survive and stay connected. It's a poignant reminder that the power of true love between two hearts is often the strongest power of all.
I heart film.
A few weeks ago, I went to see the delightfully charming and inventive fictional film, 500 Days of Summer. It's a post-modern, straight-shooter of a (sort-of) love story, with an engaging pair of leads in Zooey Deschanel and Joseph Gordon-Levitt. I hope they pair up again on film.
One of the trailers before that movie was for Paper Heart, a quasi-documentary starring Charlene Yi and Michael Cera, members of the Judd Apatow cinematic troupe. I had regretfully missed a screening of the film at the Los Angeles Film Festival in June, so was quite happy to see it picked up for release this month. The film details non-believer Yi's quest to uncover whether true love really exists. Along the way, she meets Cera and they embark on a romance that may or may not be real. Mixing documentary with storytelling, the film is a sweet offering of love in many forms.
Steal a Pencil For Me, is an enthralling documentary adaptation of the book of the same name. The film, which aired on PBS Independent Lens earlier this year, chronicles the incredible true love story of two Dutch Holocaust survivors. Jack (Jaap) Polak and Ina Soep fall in love in a concentration camp, but must carry on their love affair through heart-wrenching letters as they struggle to survive and stay connected. It's a poignant reminder that the power of true love between two hearts is often the strongest power of all.
I heart film.
Friday, August 21, 2009
30(something)
I love when my favorite old tv shows make their way to DVD, mostly because the behind-the-scenes documentaries offer a glimpse into the magic of what made them so special.
I wasn't yet even twentysomething when thirtysomething hit the airwaves in 1987. I watched it faithfully during the four years I was in college, even though the themes of adult angst weren't yet even relevant to me. At one time, I had all of the episodes recorded off of Lifetime on VHS, until I accidentally taped over the transcendent "Nancy -----, Gary ----" episode (no spoilers here). My collection was thus woefully weakened and ultimately abandoned during one of my many twentysomething moves. As the first season of this groundbreaking show finally comes to DVD, I am less than one month away from no longer being thirtysomething myself, with adult angst in focus, and hoping an episode marathon will spark an 11th hour gem of insight long dismissed (Help me Obi-Wan Ed Zwick, you're my only hope).
I attended a fun Paley Center LA screening and Q&A for the DVD release this week - it was so great to see and hear some of the renowned cast and creative team behind the show recollect their experiences. Apparently music rights issues have long held up the release, so I am thankful that they all got sorted out. The documentary features and commentaries on the making of the show and its cultural impact should be interesting; such a terrific ensemble effort all the way around ensures the legacy of a very cinematic show that likely would not have found a home on the broadcast networks in this era. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series being released on DVD in 2010.
thirtysomething at nearly twentysomething or barely fortysomething is much better than no thirtysomething at all!
I wasn't yet even twentysomething when thirtysomething hit the airwaves in 1987. I watched it faithfully during the four years I was in college, even though the themes of adult angst weren't yet even relevant to me. At one time, I had all of the episodes recorded off of Lifetime on VHS, until I accidentally taped over the transcendent "Nancy -----, Gary ----" episode (no spoilers here). My collection was thus woefully weakened and ultimately abandoned during one of my many twentysomething moves. As the first season of this groundbreaking show finally comes to DVD, I am less than one month away from no longer being thirtysomething myself, with adult angst in focus, and hoping an episode marathon will spark an 11th hour gem of insight long dismissed (Help me Obi-Wan Ed Zwick, you're my only hope).
I attended a fun Paley Center LA screening and Q&A for the DVD release this week - it was so great to see and hear some of the renowned cast and creative team behind the show recollect their experiences. Apparently music rights issues have long held up the release, so I am thankful that they all got sorted out. The documentary features and commentaries on the making of the show and its cultural impact should be interesting; such a terrific ensemble effort all the way around ensures the legacy of a very cinematic show that likely would not have found a home on the broadcast networks in this era. I'm looking forward to the rest of the series being released on DVD in 2010.
thirtysomething at nearly twentysomething or barely fortysomething is much better than no thirtysomething at all!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Star
Try as I might, I simply do not enjoy watching reality tv talent competition shows. I apologize en masse to my friends at the various networks and production companies, but most seem to be doing ok without my eyeballs. I used to think that shows like American Idol at least created some kind of strange, quasi-national unity in their quest to unleash the next big star, but now I keep thinking that they may just be helping to pull us farther apart and away from reality.
I recently saw a screening of Afghan Star, a documentary about a reality tv talent competition show - with an interesting bent. The setting is Afghanistan's Afghan Star show - their American Idol. The film offers a fascinating look at four show finalists and what they encounter as the democracy of tv voting and pop culture take the country by storm - after three decades of war and Taliban rule. Like death threats for dancing on the air. Another stark reminder of the liberties we often take for granted.
HBO Documentary Films has picked up the U.S. rights to the film, and plans to air it early next year. The film is directed by Havana Marking (her first feature documentary directing effort), and won both the directing and audience awards in the Sundance Film Festival World Cinema Documentary competition this year.
Check it out for a true dose of reality.
I recently saw a screening of Afghan Star, a documentary about a reality tv talent competition show - with an interesting bent. The setting is Afghanistan's Afghan Star show - their American Idol. The film offers a fascinating look at four show finalists and what they encounter as the democracy of tv voting and pop culture take the country by storm - after three decades of war and Taliban rule. Like death threats for dancing on the air. Another stark reminder of the liberties we often take for granted.
HBO Documentary Films has picked up the U.S. rights to the film, and plans to air it early next year. The film is directed by Havana Marking (her first feature documentary directing effort), and won both the directing and audience awards in the Sundance Film Festival World Cinema Documentary competition this year.
Check it out for a true dose of reality.
Sunday, August 16, 2009
44
College football season is almost upon us, an annual reminder that autumn is not far behind. My favorite time of the year.
I'm catching The Express again on HBO; I first saw it in the theatre on opening day last October. I'm an Orangeman, you see - a proud alum of Syracuse University. The inspiring story of Ernie Davis and football jersey #44 is a fundamental piece of school heritage and pride. Our local alumni club held a screening party that day when the film came out and Floyd Little was there - the 3rd generation of the #44 All-American running back trifecta after Jim Brown and Ernie Davis. I loved seeing the picturesque SU campus captured so beautifully on screen. Brings back fond memories.
The civil rights movement was in its infancy when Ernie Davis came to Syracuse in the late 1950s. He overcame many challenges on and off the field to be named the first African-American to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy award. Ernie Davis died tragically young, but his athletic talent, indomitable spirit and grace ensure him a prime place in the annals of sports history.
I would like to see the Legend of 44 documentary that was done several years ago to delve deeper into the story of these three football icons. I'm ordering that from Manny's, the beloved Syracuse merchandise store on campus. Maybe I'll also spring for a Syracuse 44 t-shirt and help keep the spirit of 44 alive.
Go Orange!
I'm catching The Express again on HBO; I first saw it in the theatre on opening day last October. I'm an Orangeman, you see - a proud alum of Syracuse University. The inspiring story of Ernie Davis and football jersey #44 is a fundamental piece of school heritage and pride. Our local alumni club held a screening party that day when the film came out and Floyd Little was there - the 3rd generation of the #44 All-American running back trifecta after Jim Brown and Ernie Davis. I loved seeing the picturesque SU campus captured so beautifully on screen. Brings back fond memories.
The civil rights movement was in its infancy when Ernie Davis came to Syracuse in the late 1950s. He overcame many challenges on and off the field to be named the first African-American to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy award. Ernie Davis died tragically young, but his athletic talent, indomitable spirit and grace ensure him a prime place in the annals of sports history.
I would like to see the Legend of 44 documentary that was done several years ago to delve deeper into the story of these three football icons. I'm ordering that from Manny's, the beloved Syracuse merchandise store on campus. Maybe I'll also spring for a Syracuse 44 t-shirt and help keep the spirit of 44 alive.
Go Orange!
Friday, August 14, 2009
Green
I've been working on my doc short and learning a lot about a private historic site in town that was recently re-imagined into a fantastic new public space - and free to all, I might add. When does that happen anymore?
The new site is sustainable, using post-consumer materials throughout. We're quite a progressive little city, you see; green is big business. In a wild piece of trivia, the insulation at the site is made from post-consumer denim blue jeans in place of fiberglass. I'm so happy that my favorite jeans, which so far have served mainly to contain my stomach during frequent over feedings, can now look to a brighter future ahead serving mankind. Ah, progress.
The site is also on track for a Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which I learned all about recently during a DWELL on Design conference screening of the documentary, The Greening of Southie. This engaging film from Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis (they also did the eye-opening King Corn doc) chronicles the development of the first green residential building in a traditional South Boston neighborhood. It's an often funny yet touching look at what happens when the past, present and future collide. The Sundance Channel has aired it as part of their cool programming block, THE GREEN.
Check it out and go a little green today.
The new site is sustainable, using post-consumer materials throughout. We're quite a progressive little city, you see; green is big business. In a wild piece of trivia, the insulation at the site is made from post-consumer denim blue jeans in place of fiberglass. I'm so happy that my favorite jeans, which so far have served mainly to contain my stomach during frequent over feedings, can now look to a brighter future ahead serving mankind. Ah, progress.
The site is also on track for a Silver LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) certification, which I learned all about recently during a DWELL on Design conference screening of the documentary, The Greening of Southie. This engaging film from Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis (they also did the eye-opening King Corn doc) chronicles the development of the first green residential building in a traditional South Boston neighborhood. It's an often funny yet touching look at what happens when the past, present and future collide. The Sundance Channel has aired it as part of their cool programming block, THE GREEN.
Check it out and go a little green today.
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Guitars
I had a different opening for this blog post planned 20 minutes ago. That was before I found out that Les Paul had passed away. An inventor and true revolutionary who changed music forever.
I had the great fortune to hear Les Paul play live two years ago this month at his standing and standing room only Monday night Iridium Jazz Club set in NYC. Still a virtuoso in his 90s. Afterwards, I stood in the long line of fans to meet him and he spent several minutes talking to me, to the ire of everyone else. But he didn't care; he would have time for everyone. We talked music and life, and he was marvelous. I will cherish that moment forever. Check out the wonderful American Masters documentary, Les Paul: Chasing Sound, and celebrate the original electric guitar legend.
Which brings me, oddly enough, to what I had started to write about anyway: electric guitar legends. I attended a screening of the new documentary opening tomorrow, It Might Get Loud, at the Los Angeles Film Festival in June. Director Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth) assembles three of the finest electric guitar masters from different musical generations - Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White - for interviews and an intimate joint conversation on their careers and lives with their guitars. It is a great treat to take this journey with them. I walked away with an admiration for all, and in particular, a greater appreciation for Jack White. My favorite scene is the opening moment when he builds a makeshift guitar before our eyes. I am definitely going to check out more music from this extraordinary talent.
Rest in peace, Les Paul, and thank you for making the world a lot more electric.
I had the great fortune to hear Les Paul play live two years ago this month at his standing and standing room only Monday night Iridium Jazz Club set in NYC. Still a virtuoso in his 90s. Afterwards, I stood in the long line of fans to meet him and he spent several minutes talking to me, to the ire of everyone else. But he didn't care; he would have time for everyone. We talked music and life, and he was marvelous. I will cherish that moment forever. Check out the wonderful American Masters documentary, Les Paul: Chasing Sound, and celebrate the original electric guitar legend.
Which brings me, oddly enough, to what I had started to write about anyway: electric guitar legends. I attended a screening of the new documentary opening tomorrow, It Might Get Loud, at the Los Angeles Film Festival in June. Director Davis Guggenheim (An Inconvenient Truth) assembles three of the finest electric guitar masters from different musical generations - Jimmy Page, The Edge, and Jack White - for interviews and an intimate joint conversation on their careers and lives with their guitars. It is a great treat to take this journey with them. I walked away with an admiration for all, and in particular, a greater appreciation for Jack White. My favorite scene is the opening moment when he builds a makeshift guitar before our eyes. I am definitely going to check out more music from this extraordinary talent.
Rest in peace, Les Paul, and thank you for making the world a lot more electric.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Mondays
I am a little late in mentioning the terrific HBO Documentary Film Series, currently airing on Monday nights this summer. I believe the network started the series last summer, kicking off with the riveting doc, Roman Polanski: Wanted and Desired, and happily, they brought the showcase back this year.
The '09 series opened with Teddy: In His Own Words, a revealing film about the life of Senator Ted Kennedy. His niece, celebrated documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy, did not direct the film (as was previously noted) but did direct last season's portrait of White House correspondent Helen Thomas, entitled Thank You Mr. President ).
I am kicking back with some wine and tonight's film, The Nine Lives of Marion Barry. This should be good, as are all the films in the series. The esteemed Sheila Nevins and her team at HBO consistently do an outstanding job of selecting compelling films about the crazy thing we call life. I had the opportunity to attend a Q&A with her last year at the Los Angeles Film Festival - an entertaining peek into the mind and career of one of the most influential leaders in the documentary film world.
Finally, a reason to celebrate Mondays!
The '09 series opened with Teddy: In His Own Words, a revealing film about the life of Senator Ted Kennedy. His niece, celebrated documentary filmmaker Rory Kennedy, did not direct the film (as was previously noted) but did direct last season's portrait of White House correspondent Helen Thomas, entitled Thank You Mr. President ).
I am kicking back with some wine and tonight's film, The Nine Lives of Marion Barry. This should be good, as are all the films in the series. The esteemed Sheila Nevins and her team at HBO consistently do an outstanding job of selecting compelling films about the crazy thing we call life. I had the opportunity to attend a Q&A with her last year at the Los Angeles Film Festival - an entertaining peek into the mind and career of one of the most influential leaders in the documentary film world.
Finally, a reason to celebrate Mondays!
John Hughes
How sad that John Hughes passed away last week. For everyone that came of age in the mid-late '80s, he was our cinematic guru, a beacon of light perfectly capturing the angst of teenage life. I know the script of Sixteen Candles by heart at this point. I've also been reading a lot of the tributes and articles about John Hughes over the past several days, always with the filter of "Whatever happened to him, anyway?". He left the Hollywood scene seemingly as quickly as he came, and those of us who loved his movies have felt his loss long before last Thursday.
Fortunately, the doc world never forgets, and there is a timely new doc project in the works on this mythic creative force. Don't You Forget About Me follows a team of young documentary filmmakers as they interview many celebrities involved in his projects about Hughes, with the ultimate goal of finding John Hughes himself. Luckily, the film was finished before Hughes' untimely passing, so I'm hoping that means they found him. I believe that the film has been picked up for distribution, so check out their blog for updates on a future release date.
Don't worry John Hughes, we won't forget about you.
Fortunately, the doc world never forgets, and there is a timely new doc project in the works on this mythic creative force. Don't You Forget About Me follows a team of young documentary filmmakers as they interview many celebrities involved in his projects about Hughes, with the ultimate goal of finding John Hughes himself. Luckily, the film was finished before Hughes' untimely passing, so I'm hoping that means they found him. I believe that the film has been picked up for distribution, so check out their blog for updates on a future release date.
Don't worry John Hughes, we won't forget about you.
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Rights
I spent the day watching a marathon of impressive docs at DocuWeeks LA. Good stuff all around, and it struck me that each of the films that I screened has the subject of rights at its core.
Soundtrack For a Revolution examines the U.S. civil rights movement through the songs that inspired and propelled protesters in the 1960s. Using gripping archive footage (much of which I had never seen before), eyewitness interviews, and new musical performances by contemporary artists, the filmmakers eloquently capture the spirit of this tumultuous period. The film is directed and written by Bill Guttentag and Dan Sturman (who did the acclaimed Nanking documentary on my doc to-view list), and Danny Glover serves as one of the executive producers.
Key participants and leaders in the movement share their difficult memories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things to achieve equality and justice. The reflections and footage are framed by the performances of top artists including Joss Stone, The Roots, and Wyclef Jean, who re-interpret the moving protest songs and spirituals - born out of oral traditions - that drove the non-violent approach to change. These same songs sustained the protesters when violence came to them. The film captures a scene of Pete Seeger singing "We Shall Overcome", which became the theme song of the revolution - and is still the centerpiece of his concerts nearly 50 years later. I also loved Richie Havens' current interpretation of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken". I'm now on the hunt for the soundtrack to this stirring film!
Tapped examines whether access to clean drinking water is a basic human right or a simple commodity that can be bought, sold and controlled. The film exposes the big business of bottled water, which is impacting local communities - and utimately, all of us. Via the regulatory, environmental, medical and financial issues surrounding the consumption of bottled water vs. tap water, the filmmakers include many line items of the debate.
The film has given me a lot to think about in terms of my own consumption of water and has motivated me to explore ways that I can change my habits. I like to think I am trying hard at being healthy and a good citizen - some days better than others, I suppose. Always room for improvement, and I'm grateful once again for documentaries that highlight important issues like this.
Rock Prophecies explores the career of rock music photographer Robert Knight, who for 40 years has shot many legendary artists on the road to success, and continues to nurture the next generation of musical talent. Selling the rights to his photographic catalog of 200,000 images could help defray the costs of caring for his elderly mother, but will he do it?
Knight started out shooting Jeff Beck (I can see Christopher Guest channeling him in This is Spinal Tap) and Jimi Hendrix in 1968. At his first Hendrix concert, Knight brought only 1 roll of film and shot only 14 frames, but the images ignited his career. He shot the last images of Stevie Ray Vaughan hours before the famed guitarist died, and is haunted by Stevie's musical re-incarnation prophecy "You'll know me when you hear me". Knight encounters 16-year-old blues guitar prodigy, Tyler Dow Bryant, who could be the new Stevie, and they embark on a heartfelt journey to take a shot at fame.
I'm grateful for the rights that I have - in all of their many forms - and for the people who have fought and continue to fight for them.
Soundtrack For a Revolution examines the U.S. civil rights movement through the songs that inspired and propelled protesters in the 1960s. Using gripping archive footage (much of which I had never seen before), eyewitness interviews, and new musical performances by contemporary artists, the filmmakers eloquently capture the spirit of this tumultuous period. The film is directed and written by Bill Guttentag and Dan Sturman (who did the acclaimed Nanking documentary on my doc to-view list), and Danny Glover serves as one of the executive producers.
Key participants and leaders in the movement share their difficult memories of ordinary people doing extraordinary things to achieve equality and justice. The reflections and footage are framed by the performances of top artists including Joss Stone, The Roots, and Wyclef Jean, who re-interpret the moving protest songs and spirituals - born out of oral traditions - that drove the non-violent approach to change. These same songs sustained the protesters when violence came to them. The film captures a scene of Pete Seeger singing "We Shall Overcome", which became the theme song of the revolution - and is still the centerpiece of his concerts nearly 50 years later. I also loved Richie Havens' current interpretation of "Will The Circle Be Unbroken". I'm now on the hunt for the soundtrack to this stirring film!
Tapped examines whether access to clean drinking water is a basic human right or a simple commodity that can be bought, sold and controlled. The film exposes the big business of bottled water, which is impacting local communities - and utimately, all of us. Via the regulatory, environmental, medical and financial issues surrounding the consumption of bottled water vs. tap water, the filmmakers include many line items of the debate.
The film has given me a lot to think about in terms of my own consumption of water and has motivated me to explore ways that I can change my habits. I like to think I am trying hard at being healthy and a good citizen - some days better than others, I suppose. Always room for improvement, and I'm grateful once again for documentaries that highlight important issues like this.
Rock Prophecies explores the career of rock music photographer Robert Knight, who for 40 years has shot many legendary artists on the road to success, and continues to nurture the next generation of musical talent. Selling the rights to his photographic catalog of 200,000 images could help defray the costs of caring for his elderly mother, but will he do it?
Knight started out shooting Jeff Beck (I can see Christopher Guest channeling him in This is Spinal Tap) and Jimi Hendrix in 1968. At his first Hendrix concert, Knight brought only 1 roll of film and shot only 14 frames, but the images ignited his career. He shot the last images of Stevie Ray Vaughan hours before the famed guitarist died, and is haunted by Stevie's musical re-incarnation prophecy "You'll know me when you hear me". Knight encounters 16-year-old blues guitar prodigy, Tyler Dow Bryant, who could be the new Stevie, and they embark on a heartfelt journey to take a shot at fame.
I'm grateful for the rights that I have - in all of their many forms - and for the people who have fought and continue to fight for them.
Friday, August 7, 2009
Updates
While I was travelling through RI, a few interesting news articles and links sprung up related to some of my previous blog topics:
Pete Seeger's 90th Birthday Celebration from Madison Square Garden: "We Shall Overcome"(taped in May) started airing on PBS and their site has some footage of the concert. I was disappointed to miss that show live, so was overjoyed to see him last weekend in Newport along with other folk music icons (hear his set and the others here)! Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, Judy Collins, and Arlo Guthrie still inspire with their music and poetry, and all look and sound terrific. The younger artists who also performed at the festival are ensuring an eclectic future to this beloved music genre. I am going to go set my Tivo now to catch this historic and loving birthday concert tribute.
Ken Burns appeared at the Television Critics Association (TCA) summer press tour to promote his The National Parks: America's Best Idea doc with park ranger Shelton Johnson, who is one of the key and engaging faces of the film. The film is set to premiere on PBS in September.
And the gods must have been listening to me, because at the same event, PBS announced an upcoming American Masters biographical doc, Joan Baez: Sing Me Home. She still sounds and looks beautiful, so I can't wait for this tribute to premiere in October.
The Smithsonian just acquired Julia Child's wall of copper pots that originally hung in her iconic Cambridge, Mass. kitchen during her years there on and off camera, and were on loan to another museum. Her husband had traced the outline of each pot on the wall so Julia could return them to their proper place after use. Julie & Julia opens today to good reviews, and the outlining moment is sweetly captured in the film.
Docs are always in the news!
Pete Seeger's 90th Birthday Celebration from Madison Square Garden: "We Shall Overcome"(taped in May) started airing on PBS and their site has some footage of the concert. I was disappointed to miss that show live, so was overjoyed to see him last weekend in Newport along with other folk music icons (hear his set and the others here)! Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, Judy Collins, and Arlo Guthrie still inspire with their music and poetry, and all look and sound terrific. The younger artists who also performed at the festival are ensuring an eclectic future to this beloved music genre. I am going to go set my Tivo now to catch this historic and loving birthday concert tribute.
Ken Burns appeared at the Television Critics Association (TCA) summer press tour to promote his The National Parks: America's Best Idea doc with park ranger Shelton Johnson, who is one of the key and engaging faces of the film. The film is set to premiere on PBS in September.
And the gods must have been listening to me, because at the same event, PBS announced an upcoming American Masters biographical doc, Joan Baez: Sing Me Home. She still sounds and looks beautiful, so I can't wait for this tribute to premiere in October.
The Smithsonian just acquired Julia Child's wall of copper pots that originally hung in her iconic Cambridge, Mass. kitchen during her years there on and off camera, and were on loan to another museum. Her husband had traced the outline of each pot on the wall so Julia could return them to their proper place after use. Julie & Julia opens today to good reviews, and the outlining moment is sweetly captured in the film.
Docs are always in the news!
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Anticipation
No better time for blogging than while waiting for a delayed flight, anticipating the arrival home.
I've had a wonderful trip to Rhode Island - visiting the George Wein Folk Fest 50 (as I've come to find is its correct name) and great friends, and discovering the joys of transversing an entire state in the time it normally takes me to drive across town.
I also briefly stopped by the RI Film Festival on my way out of Providence, catching an international short film showcase. One film, Half Kenneth, has its basis in historical documentary - the subject matter involving the Manzanar Japanese-American internment camp during WWII. The story of two young brothers trying to escape and make their way home to their mother is quite touching. One of the executive producers of the film is Yoko Ono Lennon, and the actual camp is now an historic rememberance site managed by the National Park Service. Makes me want to read up more on this sad and shameful chapter in American history; I'm not sure if a comprehensive doc has been made on the subject, but it should be brought to light so never repeated.
Since I was unable to stay to screen any docs at the festival, I will instead share the films scheduled there that I hope to see in the near future:
Annie Leibovitz "So, There You Go" - portrait of the renowned portrait photographer.
Art & Copy - the world of advertising.
Homegrown - living life Little House on the Prairie-style in the 21st century.
Little Miss Dewie - a "duckumentary" short.
Not Your Mama's Roller Derby - think this one is self-explanatory.
School Play - everyday drama of 5th grade, framing a production of The Wizard of Oz.
Shooting Beauty - fashion photographer captures a hidden world of beauty at a center for disabilities.
Uneven Fairways - the African-American experience in golf.
William Shatner's Gonzo Ballet - Shatner meets Ben Folds in an avant garde way. 'nuff said.
A few other docs I want to see this month at the IDA DocuWeeks festival in LA include:
Rock Prophecies - profile of rock photographer Robert Knight.
Tapped - the troubles of the bottled water industry.
Smile 'til It Hurts: The Up With People Story - remember them?
Some good stuff coming out of the vacation - docs follow us everywhere!
I've had a wonderful trip to Rhode Island - visiting the George Wein Folk Fest 50 (as I've come to find is its correct name) and great friends, and discovering the joys of transversing an entire state in the time it normally takes me to drive across town.
I also briefly stopped by the RI Film Festival on my way out of Providence, catching an international short film showcase. One film, Half Kenneth, has its basis in historical documentary - the subject matter involving the Manzanar Japanese-American internment camp during WWII. The story of two young brothers trying to escape and make their way home to their mother is quite touching. One of the executive producers of the film is Yoko Ono Lennon, and the actual camp is now an historic rememberance site managed by the National Park Service. Makes me want to read up more on this sad and shameful chapter in American history; I'm not sure if a comprehensive doc has been made on the subject, but it should be brought to light so never repeated.
Since I was unable to stay to screen any docs at the festival, I will instead share the films scheduled there that I hope to see in the near future:
Annie Leibovitz "So, There You Go" - portrait of the renowned portrait photographer.
Art & Copy - the world of advertising.
Homegrown - living life Little House on the Prairie-style in the 21st century.
Little Miss Dewie - a "duckumentary" short.
Not Your Mama's Roller Derby - think this one is self-explanatory.
School Play - everyday drama of 5th grade, framing a production of The Wizard of Oz.
Shooting Beauty - fashion photographer captures a hidden world of beauty at a center for disabilities.
Uneven Fairways - the African-American experience in golf.
William Shatner's Gonzo Ballet - Shatner meets Ben Folds in an avant garde way. 'nuff said.
A few other docs I want to see this month at the IDA DocuWeeks festival in LA include:
Rock Prophecies - profile of rock photographer Robert Knight.
Tapped - the troubles of the bottled water industry.
Smile 'til It Hurts: The Up With People Story - remember them?
Some good stuff coming out of the vacation - docs follow us everywhere!
Friday, July 31, 2009
Parks
Did I mention that I am directing my first documentary short video? It's for a small workshop, and I am surrounded by a great group of talented folks. My topic is on the local pier, surrounding park and coastal area in town, on the occasion of the pier's 100th anniversary. My interviewee target got back to me and luckily so did several other people. Even the mayor. How nice! Warm hugs for everyone. The pressure is on though, and with all of the preparation, you would think I am directing some David Lean epic.
I am wondering if this is how Ken Burns started out. Because I am thinking of his films in putting my little effort together. Given that it will involve mainly archive images and interviews, I will be going for the "Ken Burns Effect" to give some life to the images. I am dying to see his upcoming PBS doc on parks, The National Parks: America's Best Idea. Check out the great preview on the PBS site for the film.
Very worthy topic, our parks. I recently read a Vanity Fair excerpt from The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America. The book explores Roosevelt's key role in creating our national park system and promoting conservation. Another book I need to add to the growing pile, but I am already sure it will be a great read.
Go hug a tree today - and give a little thanks to Ken and Teddy for their work on behalf of our parks.
I am wondering if this is how Ken Burns started out. Because I am thinking of his films in putting my little effort together. Given that it will involve mainly archive images and interviews, I will be going for the "Ken Burns Effect" to give some life to the images. I am dying to see his upcoming PBS doc on parks, The National Parks: America's Best Idea. Check out the great preview on the PBS site for the film.
Very worthy topic, our parks. I recently read a Vanity Fair excerpt from The Wilderness Warrior: Theodore Roosevelt and the Crusade for America. The book explores Roosevelt's key role in creating our national park system and promoting conservation. Another book I need to add to the growing pile, but I am already sure it will be a great read.
Go hug a tree today - and give a little thanks to Ken and Teddy for their work on behalf of our parks.
Thursday, July 30, 2009
Cooks
In addition to being a doc fan, I love to cook. Fortunately, I live in Southern California, where I have a daily helping of farmers markets and documentaries at my disposal. Cooking soothes me; every recipe is a little story and an escape into something foreign and new. Kind of like documentaries.
I have been on pins and needles for weeks in anticipation of seeing the new film, Julie & Julia. French cooking and blogging - sign me up. Tonight, I saw a screening of the film in my neighborhood and was enchanted. I hadn't followed Julie Powell's blog back in the day (I don't think I even knew about blogging back then), or read her book in advance, but I knew that I loved food and that this was going to be the film for me. I was not wrong - it is another Nora Ephron delight (carried mainly and not surprisingly by Meryl Streep), marrying Julie's story of finding her passion, learning to cook and working her way through Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking, with Julia's story of finding her passion, learning to cook and writing the book in the first place. I gained 10 pounds just watching the movie, and it looks like I have some French cooking to do in my not-so-distant-future...
Of course, it also got me thinking about docs and cooks. American Masters did a doc on Julia Child some years ago called Julia! America's Favorite Chef; I'm not sure if they are going to re-air it around the movie release, but you can buy it on DVD. My local PBS station sent an email today about a special Julia Child retrospective this weekend, so I am going to try to catch that. Julia was an institution; I just missed seeing her in person shortly before her death, and it is still a life regret.
Another French cooking revolutionary and heroine of mine is Alice Waters, who I recently did have the honor of meeting (coincidentally, at the same theatre as the screening tonight). Years ago, I had the great opportunity to dine at her legendary restaurant Chez Panisse in Berkeley. A treasured memory. American Masters did a doc on her as well - Alice Waters and her Delicious Revolution. A new doc, Food, Inc. showcases the issue of food safety, and of eating organically, seasonally and locally, which Alice Waters has espoused for decades.
Two other related cooking items to note for now: Stanley Tucci is terrific in the film as Julia's husband Paul; there are rumors that he will team up with Mario Batali for the Italian follow-up to the Spain...On the Road Again doc series on PBS. I was addicted to this show last year, and bought just about every piece of product associated with it. I hope it happens soon and wonder if there is a French culinary road trip to come.
Finally, I recently read David Kamp's book The United States of Arugula: The Sun Dried, Cold Pressed, Dark Roasted, Extra Virgin Story of the American Food Revolution , featuring Julia, Alice, Mario, James Beard, and a host of other visionaries who changed the way we cook and eat in this country. The book was a great primer for this movie. It took me about as long to read as it did Julie Powell to finish her Julia Child cooking project, but only because I savored every fantastic, juicy word of it.
Bon Appetit (but of course)!
I have been on pins and needles for weeks in anticipation of seeing the new film, Julie & Julia. French cooking and blogging - sign me up. Tonight, I saw a screening of the film in my neighborhood and was enchanted. I hadn't followed Julie Powell's blog back in the day (I don't think I even knew about blogging back then), or read her book in advance, but I knew that I loved food and that this was going to be the film for me. I was not wrong - it is another Nora Ephron delight (carried mainly and not surprisingly by Meryl Streep), marrying Julie's story of finding her passion, learning to cook and working her way through Julia Child's Mastering the Art of French Cooking, with Julia's story of finding her passion, learning to cook and writing the book in the first place. I gained 10 pounds just watching the movie, and it looks like I have some French cooking to do in my not-so-distant-future...
Of course, it also got me thinking about docs and cooks. American Masters did a doc on Julia Child some years ago called Julia! America's Favorite Chef; I'm not sure if they are going to re-air it around the movie release, but you can buy it on DVD. My local PBS station sent an email today about a special Julia Child retrospective this weekend, so I am going to try to catch that. Julia was an institution; I just missed seeing her in person shortly before her death, and it is still a life regret.
Another French cooking revolutionary and heroine of mine is Alice Waters, who I recently did have the honor of meeting (coincidentally, at the same theatre as the screening tonight). Years ago, I had the great opportunity to dine at her legendary restaurant Chez Panisse in Berkeley. A treasured memory. American Masters did a doc on her as well - Alice Waters and her Delicious Revolution. A new doc, Food, Inc. showcases the issue of food safety, and of eating organically, seasonally and locally, which Alice Waters has espoused for decades.
Two other related cooking items to note for now: Stanley Tucci is terrific in the film as Julia's husband Paul; there are rumors that he will team up with Mario Batali for the Italian follow-up to the Spain...On the Road Again doc series on PBS. I was addicted to this show last year, and bought just about every piece of product associated with it. I hope it happens soon and wonder if there is a French culinary road trip to come.
Finally, I recently read David Kamp's book The United States of Arugula: The Sun Dried, Cold Pressed, Dark Roasted, Extra Virgin Story of the American Food Revolution , featuring Julia, Alice, Mario, James Beard, and a host of other visionaries who changed the way we cook and eat in this country. The book was a great primer for this movie. It took me about as long to read as it did Julie Powell to finish her Julia Child cooking project, but only because I savored every fantastic, juicy word of it.
Bon Appetit (but of course)!
Comics
One of the many great things about docs is that they bring to light untold stories and unsung heroes. Even the unsung heroes who create heroes. Last night, I had the pleasure to attend a screening and reception for The Legends Behind the Comic Books, produced and directed by Chip Cronkite, son of the late, great Walter who just passed. A true hero in his own right.
With framing by comic book historians, the film explores the visionary writers and illustrators who created the most famous super hero comics in history, including the revered Stan Lee and many more. A wonderful treat to delve into the history of this oft-dismissed true art form and important piece of American culture - "frozen movies" as comics were described; artists in the roles of producers and directors.
The event brought to mind one of my favorite books, the Pulitzer Prize-winning The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, by Michael Chabon. The story of a pair of comic book creators circa WWII is a fabulously vivid and epic tale of the Golden Age of comics. It is apparent in watching the film that Kavalier and Clay are a loving homage to the great comic book creative duos Joe Simon & Jack Kirby, and Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster. Even GOOP is writing about this book today, oddly enough. Check it all out - and give thanks to comic books and their creators for timeless stories, indelible art and super heroes - wrapped around truth, justice and the American way.
With framing by comic book historians, the film explores the visionary writers and illustrators who created the most famous super hero comics in history, including the revered Stan Lee and many more. A wonderful treat to delve into the history of this oft-dismissed true art form and important piece of American culture - "frozen movies" as comics were described; artists in the roles of producers and directors.
The event brought to mind one of my favorite books, the Pulitzer Prize-winning The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier & Clay, by Michael Chabon. The story of a pair of comic book creators circa WWII is a fabulously vivid and epic tale of the Golden Age of comics. It is apparent in watching the film that Kavalier and Clay are a loving homage to the great comic book creative duos Joe Simon & Jack Kirby, and Jerry Siegel & Joe Shuster. Even GOOP is writing about this book today, oddly enough. Check it all out - and give thanks to comic books and their creators for timeless stories, indelible art and super heroes - wrapped around truth, justice and the American way.
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Folk Fest
I'm getting really excited for my vacation to Rhode Island; I keep having dreams about clambakes and sailing. First stop is also my first trip to the Newport Folk Festival (50th Annual!) this weekend. Pete Seeger and Joan Baez are among the headliners, no less! Different generations of the folk music revival they may be, but I can barely contain myself in anticipation of seeing these legends perform live. Several music docs come to mind including Pete Seeger: The Power of Song which chronicles the life of this iconic folk musician and activist. A great portrait of a poet and patriot still changing the world at 90. One of our true national treasures. I haven't seen a definitive doc on Joan Baez, although I think PBS may have done one on her eons ago. Probably time for an update.
The NFF itself has been featured in a few docs including Bob Dylan: No Direction Home, Martin Scorcese's revealing look back at Bob Dylan's revolutionary life in music. The '65 NFF was the legendary occasion when Dylan plugged in and heralded a new era in music, captured best in The Other Side of the Mirror: Bob Dylan Live at NFF '63-'65. Festival! - The Newport Folk Festival, also highlights the event with Seeger, Baez, and Dylan among others. Throw in the seminal DJ Pennebaker's Bob Dylan: Don't Look Back (albeit not about NFF '65 but the period leading up to it), and you've got yourself a folk music concert doc marathon right in the (hopefully air-conditioned) summer comfort of your own home. Without the beer lines and port-o-potties. Enjoy!
The NFF itself has been featured in a few docs including Bob Dylan: No Direction Home, Martin Scorcese's revealing look back at Bob Dylan's revolutionary life in music. The '65 NFF was the legendary occasion when Dylan plugged in and heralded a new era in music, captured best in The Other Side of the Mirror: Bob Dylan Live at NFF '63-'65. Festival! - The Newport Folk Festival, also highlights the event with Seeger, Baez, and Dylan among others. Throw in the seminal DJ Pennebaker's Bob Dylan: Don't Look Back (albeit not about NFF '65 but the period leading up to it), and you've got yourself a folk music concert doc marathon right in the (hopefully air-conditioned) summer comfort of your own home. Without the beer lines and port-o-potties. Enjoy!
Monday, July 27, 2009
Petey
It's fairly rare to find a person who is the subject of both a bio-pic and a documentary, but Petey Greene was a rare breed. An incredible character who overcame prison time and struggled throughout his life with personal demons, Petey found his calling in the late 60s as a pioneer shock jock on radio and later TV in Washington, D.C. He was a lightening rod activist and provocative voice of the people during a time of great civil unrest. I loved Don Cheadle's interpretation of him in Talk to Me, the 2007 film about Petey's life in the spotlight, and "telling it like it is".
The 2009 documentary, Adjust Your Color: The Truth of Petey Greene, is a captivating companion piece to that film and just won the 2009 Independent Lens Audience Award. Narrated by Don Cheadle as well, it features a broader look at Petey's life, and spell-binding clips of the real Petey in action.
Celebrate a true iconoclast and check out Petey.
The 2009 documentary, Adjust Your Color: The Truth of Petey Greene, is a captivating companion piece to that film and just won the 2009 Independent Lens Audience Award. Narrated by Don Cheadle as well, it features a broader look at Petey's life, and spell-binding clips of the real Petey in action.
Celebrate a true iconoclast and check out Petey.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Lines
I've been following the rise of branded content on the web - for better or for worse, it is here to stay as companies are exploring innovative vehicles for longer consumer engagement. I enjoy the branded entertainment experience when it is showcased in a sleek, intelligent and organic way. Lately, I have also been fascinated with design in all of its forms - and of course, the documentaries that give us a peek behind the design curtain. Objectifed is the new doc from the director of the awesome Helvetica doc that aired on PBS Independent Lens. The story of a font, you say? Yes, I kid you not, Helvetica was a super cool look at typography and graphic design. The follow-up doc canvasses the world of industrial design - highlighting the design philosophy and process for some everyday objects like OXO kitchen gadgets and Apple products. I wish it had delved a bit deeper into each, but the reflection from product designers and critics on the form & function, societal influence and future of design is worth checking out. A segment on the improved design of a toothpick brought an A HA moment to the theatre.
I've also been checking out the subtly branded Lexus LStudio website, which showcases original short docs, webisodes and films that offer a unique look at the world and inspire innovation (with the assumption that of course this is inspiring Lexus innovation as well). Their Lines short doc series travels the same road as Objectified, examining such commonplace things as how the personal space of a desk can shape our world. I enjoyed that piece, as I have newly transformed my desk at home with objects that comfort me every day and have inspired me to start this blog. Like my plant from the Doc Maven desk (see blog photo). There is also a fun webisode series, Web Therapy (starring Lisa Kudrow), which recently won a Webby Award.
Now get out there to innovate and be inspired in your world!
I've also been checking out the subtly branded Lexus LStudio website, which showcases original short docs, webisodes and films that offer a unique look at the world and inspire innovation (with the assumption that of course this is inspiring Lexus innovation as well). Their Lines short doc series travels the same road as Objectified, examining such commonplace things as how the personal space of a desk can shape our world. I enjoyed that piece, as I have newly transformed my desk at home with objects that comfort me every day and have inspired me to start this blog. Like my plant from the Doc Maven desk (see blog photo). There is also a fun webisode series, Web Therapy (starring Lisa Kudrow), which recently won a Webby Award.
Now get out there to innovate and be inspired in your world!
Friday, July 24, 2009
Four
I love exploring The Documentary Channel offerings online as I can't yet see them on my satellite provider. Hopefully that will change soon. Check out this documentary Four that I recently sent to some of my fabulous and immensely talented string musician friends. Four violinists across the world & seasons in Tokyo, Australia, NYC, and Finland perform the movements in Vivaldi's "The Four Seasons". Some incredible visuals paired with timeless music brings the work to life anew. Aah...
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Here's the Story.
I am a blogger. About 9 years, 7 months and 23 days late to the blogosphere party, but a blogger nonetheless. Apparently, I am also a techie late bloomer - in much the same way as I discovered the joys of Tivo and AAPL. But those are working out ok, too, so I am hopeful about this blogging thing.
I am a documentary producer. After an exciting career as a salesperson, marketer, non-profit evangelizer, tv and record industry exec, I synthesized all of my exeriences and found my passion. I'll share stories and tips from the trenches.
I am a documentary director. That is, assuming I can get my new video camera to work and my interviewee will return my call. I'll let you know how that goes.
I am a documentary fan. Docs tell stories that are often stranger than fiction, and capture images that can change the world. I'll report on some of my favorite docs and new ones I think you should check out.
I am a blogger. Stay tuned for more stories, docs and otherwise.
I am a documentary producer. After an exciting career as a salesperson, marketer, non-profit evangelizer, tv and record industry exec, I synthesized all of my exeriences and found my passion. I'll share stories and tips from the trenches.
I am a documentary director. That is, assuming I can get my new video camera to work and my interviewee will return my call. I'll let you know how that goes.
I am a documentary fan. Docs tell stories that are often stranger than fiction, and capture images that can change the world. I'll report on some of my favorite docs and new ones I think you should check out.
I am a blogger. Stay tuned for more stories, docs and otherwise.
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