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To me, my vinyl collectors! The music of X-Men ’97 is coming to physical media, with the Newton Brothers’ score arriving as part of a two-record set.

The Hollywood Reporter has the first look and details of the package, which features art from Phantom City Creative and contains two, 140-gram color vinyl discs housed in a gatefold jacket.

X-Men ’97 was a continuation of the classic X-Men animated series, which ran from 1992-97. It was a critical hit for Marvel Studios, becoming its first project to score a 100 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. The score form the Newton Brothers, known for collaborations with Doctor Sleep filmmaker Mike Flanagan, took inspiration from the show, and charted its own path as well.

Pop culture art, music, and collectibles shop Mutant is behind the vinyl release, which can be pre-ordered now.

“Meeting expectations is hard. Exceeding them is even harder. X-Men ’97 makes it...

Each week we highlight the noteworthy titles that have recently hit streaming platforms in the United States. Check out this week’s selections below and past round-ups here.

Am I Ok? (Stephanie Allyne and Tig Notaro)

A romantic comedy that functions best as a fable of friendship and self-reflection, Am I Ok? is the kind of lightweight, amiable movie that just barely earns the emotional beats at the heart of its story. Set in Los Angeles, it follows the converging life events of two best friends, Lucy (Dakota Johnson) and Jane (Sonoya Mizuno), soul sisters with opposite personalities who tell each other everything—except for the big secrets they’ve been harboring from each other. How they respond to hearing them fuels Stephanie Allyne and Tig Notaro’s gentle and wobbly feature debut. – Jake K-s. (full review)

Where to Stream: Max

Dad & Step-Dad (Tynan DeLong)

Following the stellar comedy Free Time,...

On Wednesday June 5 2024, Bravo broadcasts an episode of the series Top Chef!

Goodbye Wisconsin Season 21 Episode 12 Episode Summary

In this episode of Bravo’s “Top Chef” titled “Goodbye Wisconsin,” viewers can expect another exciting culinary showdown as aspiring chefs vie for their chance at culinary stardom. With the competition heating up, tensions are high as contestants push themselves to their limits to impress the judges and secure their spot in the competition.

As the episode unfolds, viewers will be treated to a feast for the senses as contestants showcase their creativity, skill, and passion for cooking. From innovative flavor combinations to stunning presentation, each chef brings their unique culinary perspective to the table in hopes of wowing the judges and advancing to the next round.

Against the backdrop of the vibrant culinary scene in Wisconsin, contestants face a series of challenges designed to test their culinary prowess and creativity. From...

The anime studio Kinema Citrus was founded in 2008, and has since produced notable works including Yuyushiki , Made in Abyss , Shojo Kageki Revue Starlight and My Happy Marriage . They also made the Star Wars Visions short “The Village Bride.” On May 18th, the studio took a big step by announcing its first two original titles at Anime Central: the mermaid saga Goodbye ,Lara and the light-hearted Ninja Skooler. Crunchyroll News had the opportunity to speak to three studio representatives during the event. Takushi Koide, a talented animator and director who is set to direct Goodbye, Lara ; Takehiro Kubota, the director of last year’s romance series My Happy Marriage ; and Muneki Ogasawara, an experienced producer and co-founder of Kinema Citrus. During the interview, we spoke with each about the challenges posed by original works, Koide’s expectations for Goodbye, Lara , Kubota’s experience directing My Happy Marriage , and how the...

Neon has acquired the North American rights to “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” directed by Mohammad Rasoulof. The thriller is set to premiere In Competition in Cannes on May 24, and marks Rasoulof’s first return to the Cannes Film Festival, after being barred from traveling. Neon is planning a North American theatrical release later this year.

The film — which stars Setareh Abdolmaleki, Zahra Rostami, Amineh Mazroei Arani and Niousha AkhshiVardoogh — follows Iman, an investigating judge in the Revolutionary Court in Tehran, who grapples with mistrust and paranoia as nationwide political protests intensify and his gun mysteriously disappears. Suspecting the involvement of his wife Najmeh and his daughters Rezvan and Sana, he imposes drastic measures at home, causing tensions to rise.

The deal was negotiated by Neon’s VP of Acquisitions Sarah Colvin with Films Boutique / Parallel 45’s Jean-Christophe Simon and Film Boutique’s Julien Razafindranaly on behalf of the filmmakers.

Leading European festivals, film academies and funders have called for the freedom of Iranian film director Mohammad Rasoulof.

Rasoulof was last week summoned to serve a one-year prison sentence in Iran three days after his film “There is No Evil” won the Berlin Film Festival’s Golden Bear, according to his lawyer and a report by London-based Iran International TV.

The European Film Academy, Cannes Film Festival, the Berlinale, the Deutsche Filmakademie, the Filmförderung Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein, the Filmfest Hamburg, International Documentary Film Festival Amsterdam (Idfa), the International Film Festival Rotterdam (Iffr), the Netherlands Film Fund and the Accademia del Cinema Italiano-Premi David di Donatello have all expressed concern about Rasoulof’s imminent incarceration.

Rasoulof is one of his country’s most prominent directors, even though none of his films have screened in Iran, where they are banned.

Wim Wenders, president of the European Film Academy, said: “Our colleague Mohammad Rasoulof...

An all-female — and mostly African-American — panel on CNN took some time Wednesday to point and laugh at Omarosa Manigault, who served as Director of Communications for the White House Office of Public Liaison until announcing her resignation effective January 20. “Ahhh — Bye, girl, bye … Bye honey. You have never represented the community,” CNN contributor Angela Rye said. “Good bye, good riddance, goodbye, deuces, out.” That comment prompted a round of laughter on set — CNN anchor Brooke Baldwin at one point was laughing so hard she hid her face behind her notes. Also Read: Omarosa Manigault Exits White...

One little boy has found the quickest way onto Santa’s naughty list – directly insult the big man in red himself.

The Virginian boy decided he was not going to follow the status quo when writing his annual letter to Santa, with the 6-year-old not mincing words to jolly Saint Nick.

The young Santa skeptic’s mother, Sarah McCammon, shared her son’s hilariously brutal note on Twitter Sunday. By Monday, it went viral with hundreds of comments, thousands of likes and retweets.

“Dear Santa, I’m only doing this for the class,” the young boy said in his introduction.

Tarek and Christina El Moussa are mourning the loss of a dear friend.

The two Hgtv stars shared their condolences and memories of Frank Miller, a contractor for their show Flip or Flop, who passed away on Friday.

Miller suffered from Laryngeal cancer.

“Good bye My dear friend Frank,” Tarek wrote in the caption of a photo of the two of them. “I have always looked up to you and have respected you as a brother.”

“You have touched not only myself and my family but thousands and thousands around the world,” he continued. “You have impacted so many lives...

Chloe Lattanzi has a very special photographer helping her capture the perfect Instagram shot these days: her mother, Olivia Newton-John.

The 31-year-old singer and actress has been sharing a handful of sultry pictures taken by the Grease star to the popular social media site over the past week — including one of her posing on a bed posted Friday.

“Off to bed. How cute is this bed guys!!! Heavenly sheets! I love you all,” she wrote. “Loving sharing my special moments with my mom with you. Photographer: mommy. I adore you mom! Your the best photographer.”

Their photoshoots come as Newton-John...

As Olivia Newton-John faces cancer for the second time, she still makes sure to get plenty of quality time with family.

Daughter Chloe Lattanzi shared a photo to Instagram on Monday showing a glamour shot being edited on a computer display. A healthy-looking Newton-John can be seen in the screen’s reflection, seemingly admiring Lattanzi’s pose.

“Where’s mama? Can u spot her?” Lattanzi, 31, captioned the Instagram. She also offered a brief update on her mother’s health. “Hehehe she is doing soooo well. We’re spending this week together! So happy!”

In May, doctors diagnosed Newton-John, 68, with breast...

'Good Time' with Robert Pattinson: All but completely bypassed at the Cannes Film Festival, Ben and Joshua Safdie's crime thriller – co-written by Joshua Safdie and Ronald Bronstein – may turn out to be a key contender in various categories next awards season. Bypassed Palme d'Or contenders (See previous post re: Cannes winners Diane Kruger & Sofia Coppola's Oscar chances.) The Cannes Film Festival has historically been both U.S.- and eurocentric. In other words, filmmaking from other countries in the Americas, Africa, Asia, and the Pacific tend to be ignored either at the awards ceremony or at the very outset – in other words, they don't even get the chance to compete for the Palme d'Or. This year was no different, with a mere two non-u.S., non-European productions (or co-productions) among the 19 films in the Official Competition: Naomi Kawase's Japanese romantic drama Radiance and Hong Sang-soo's South Korean romantic drama The Day After. Both came out empty-handed. Among the other movies that failed to win any of the Official Competition awards, several may have a shot in some category or other come Oscar time. Notably: The socially conscious family drama Happy End, produced by veteran Margaret Ménégoz (Pauline at the Beach, Europa Europa) and a Sony Pictures Classics release in North America. Dir.: Michael Haneke. Cast: Isabelle Huppert. Jean-Louis Trintignant. Mathieu Kassovitz. The mix of time-bending mystery and family drama Wonderstruck, a Roadside Attractions / Amazon Studios release (on Oct. 20) in the U.S. Dir.: Todd Haynes. Cast: Julianne Moore. Millicent Simmonds. Cory Michael Smith. The crime drama Good Time, an A24 release (on Aug. 11) in the U.S. Dir.: Ben and Joshua Safdie. Cast: Robert Pattinson. Jennifer Jason Leigh. Barkhad Abdi. Cannes non-win doesn't mean weaker Oscar chances It's good to remember that the lack of a Cannes Film Festival win doesn't necessarily reduce a film's, a director's, a screenwriter's, or a performer's Oscar chances. Case in point: last year's Cannes Best Actress “loser” Isabelle Huppert for Elle. Here are a few other recent examples of Cannes non-winners in specific categories that went on to receive Oscar nods: Carol (2015), Best Actress (Cate Blanchett) nominee. Two Days, One Night / Deux jours, une nuit (2014), Best Actress (Marion Cotillard) nominee. The Great Beauty / La grande bellezza (2013), Best Foreign Language Film winner. The Hunt / Jagten (2012), Best Foreign Language Film nominee (at the 2013 Academy Awards). The Artist (2011), Best Picture and Best Director (Michel Hazanavicius) Oscar winner. And here's a special case: Amour leading lady and 2012 Best Actress Oscar nominee Emmanuelle Riva could not have won the Best Actress Award at Cannes, as current festival rules prevent Palme d'Or winners from taking home any other Official Competition awards. In other words, Isabelle Huppert (again), Julianne Moore, and Robert Pattinson – and their respective films – could theoretically remain strong Oscar contenders despite the absence of Cannes Film Festival Official Competition victories. Mohammad Rasoulof and Leslie Caron among other notable Cannes winners Besides those already mentioned in this article, notable winners at the 2017 Cannes Film Festival include: Mohammad Rasoulof's A Man of Integrity. Having infuriated Iran's theocracy, in 2010 Rasoulof was sentenced to a year in prison following accusations of “filming without a permit.” He has been out on bail. In 2011, Rasoulof won the Un Certain Regard sidebar's Best Director Award for Goodbye. Two years later, his Un Certain Regard entry Manuscripts Don't Burn won the International Film Critics' Fipresci Prize. Veteran Leslie Caron and her 17-year-old pet rescue dog Tchi Tchi shared the Palm DogManitarian Award for their work in the British television series The Durrells in Corfu / The Durrells. Caron, who will be turning 86 on July 1, made her film debut in Vincente Minnelli's 1951 musical An American in Paris – that year's Best Picture Academy Award winner. She would be shortlisted twice for the Best Actress Oscar: Lili (1953) and The L-Shaped Room (1963). Last year, she was the subject of Larry Weinstein's documentary Leslie Caron: The Reluctant Star and will next be seen in Thomas Brunot's short The Perfect Age. Faces Places / Visages, villages, which offers a tour of the French countryside, won Cannes' Golden Eye Award for Best Documentary. The directors are veteran Agnès Varda (Cléo from 5 to 7, Vagabond), who turned 89 on May 30, and photographer/muralist Jr. Faces Places is supposed to be Varda's swan song, following a career spanning more than six decades. Her 2008 César-winning documentary The Beaches of Agnès was one of the 15 semi-finalists for the Best Documentary Feature Oscar. See below a comprehensive list of the 2017 Cannes Film Festival winners. Leslie Caron in 'The Durrells in Corfu.' TV series a.k.a. 'The Durrells' earned the veteran two-time Best Actress Oscar nominee ('Lili,' 1953; 'The L-Shaped Room,' 1963) and her dog companion Tchi Tchi this year's Palm DogManitarian Award at the Cannes Film Festival. 2017 Cannes Film Festival winners Official Competition Palme d'Or: The Square (dir.: Ruben Östlund). Grand Prix: 120 Beats per Minute (dir.: Robin Campillo). Jury Prize: Loveless (dir.: Andrey Zvyagintsev). Best Screenplay (tie): The Killing of a Sacred Deer, Yorgos Lanthimos & Efthymis Filippou. You Were Never Really Here, Lynne Ramsay. Best Actress: Diane Kruger, In the Fade. Best Actor: Joaquin Phoenix, You Were Never Really Here. Best Director: Sofia Coppola, The Beguiled. Best Short Film: A Gentle Night (dir.: Qiu Yang). Short Film Special Mention: Katto (dir.: Teppo Airaksinen). Un Certain Regard Un Certain Regard Award: A Man of Integrity (dir.: Mohammad Rasoulof). Jury Prize: April's Daughter / Las hijas de abril (dir.: Michel Franco). Best Director: Taylor Sheridan, Wind River. Best Actress / Best Performance: Jasmine Trinca, Fortunata. Prize for Best Poetic Narrative: Barbara (dir.: Mathieu Amalric). International Film Critics' Fipresci Prize Official Competition: 120 Beats per Minute. Un Certain Regard: Closeness (dir.: Kantemir Balagov). Directors' Fortnight: The Nothing Factory / A Fábrica de Nada (dir.: Pedro Pinho). Directors' Fortnight / Quinzaine des Réalisateurs Prix Sacd (Société des Auteurs Compositeurs Dramatiques) (tie): Lover for a Day / L'amant d'un jour (dir.: Philippe Garrel). Let the Sunshine In / Un beau soleil intérieur (dir.: Claire Denis). C.I.C.A.E. Art Cinema Award: The Rider (dir.: Chloe Zhao). Europa Cinemas Label: A Ciambra (dir.: Jonas Carpignano). Prix Illy for Best Short Film: Back to Genoa City / Retour à Genoa City (dir.: Benoît Grimalt). Critics' Week Grand Prize: Makala (dir.: Emmanuel Gras). Visionary Award: Gabriel and the Mountain / Gabriel e a Montanha (dir.: Fellipe Barbosa). Gan Foundation Award for Distribution: Version Originale Condor, French distributor of Gabriel and the Mountain. Sacd Award: Léa Mysius, Ava. Discovery Award for Best Short Film: Los desheredados (dir.: Laura Ferrés). Canal+ Award for Best Short Film: The Best Fireworks Ever / Najpienkniejsze Fajerwerki Ever (dir.: Aleksandra Terpinska). Other Cannes Film Festival 2017 Awards 70th Anniversary prize: Nicole Kidman. Caméra d'Or for Best First Film: Montparnasse Bienvenue / Jeune femme (dir.: Léonor Serraille). Golden Eye Award for Best Documentary: Faces Places / Visages, Villages (dir.: Agnès Varda, Jr). Prize of the Ecumenical Jury: Radiance (dir.: Naomi Kawase). Queer Palm: 120 Beats per Minute. Queer Palm for Best Short Film: Islands / Les îles (dir.: Yann Gonzalez). Cannes Soundtrack Award for Best Composer: Daniel Lopatin, Good Time. Vulcan Prize for Artist Technicians: Josefin Åsberg, The Square. Kering Women in Motion Award: Isabelle Huppert. Palm Dog: Einstein the Dog for The Meyerowitz Stories (New and Selected). Palm DogManitarian Award: Leslie Caron and the dog Tchi Tchi for The Durrells in Corfu. Chopard Trophy for Male/Female Revelation: George MacKay and Anya Taylor-Joy. This article was originally published at Alt Film Guide (http://www.altfg.com/).

Chloe Lattanzi is taking a break from social media after she claims to have received an "incredibly insensitive" comment in regard to one of her recent posts.

Earlier this week, Lattanzi's mother, Olivia Newton-John, revealed that she was battling breast cancer again, and while the 68-year-old singer's daughter did receive some support from her social media community, one Instagram follower slammed her for sharing a happy photo of herself.

"Some woman commented that I couldn’t post happy pictures of myself because of what my mother is going through. I am so sad and no one has any idea what I am going through," Lattanzi, 31, responded to the remark. "I don’t want my life to be public and this [is] the greatest struggle a daughter could go through. And the last thing I need is someone telling me that I can’t distract...

As her mother Olivia Newton-John battles with breast cancer, Chloe Lattanzi is taking a break from social media after getting fed up with negative feedback in her comments section.

“Some woman commented that I couldn’t post happy pictures of myself because of what my mother is going through. I am so sad and no one has any idea what I am going through,” Lattanzi, 31, wrote in one of two final posts on Thursday.

“I don’t want my life to be public and this the greatest struggle a daughter could go through. And the last thing I need is...

Cannes will be tying up the line-up until late into the night, according to Frémaux’s recent book.

With less than 24 hours to go until the Cannes Film Festival unveils the Official Selection of its 70th edition (May 17-28) speculation is building.

The eve of the announcement is a decisive day for the festival as it ties-up the loose ends of it line-up.

Cannes delegate general Thierry Frémaux and the rest of his selection and press team will be lockdown at the festival’s rue Amélie offices in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.

Frémaux describes today as the “day of all dangers”, in his recent book, Sélection Officielle (pictured, right), a blow-by-blow account of how the 2016 selection came together over the course of a year.

“There are still films to be seen and decisions to be taken, some will be delicate: establishing a selection is not an exact science,” writes Frémaux...

Cannes will be tying up the line-up until late into the night, according to Frémaux’s recent book.

With less than 24 hours to go until the Cannes Film Festival unveils the Official Selection of its 70th edition (May 17-28) speculation is building.

The eve of the announcement is a decisive day for the festival as it ties-up the loose ends of it line-up.

Cannes delegate general Thierry Frémaux and the rest of his selection and press team will be lockdown at the festival’s rue Amélie offices in the shadow of the Eiffel Tower.

Frémaux describes today as the “day of all dangers”, in his recent book, Sélection Officielle (pictured, right), a blow-by-blow account of how the 2016 selection came together over the course of a year.

“There are still films to be seen and decisions to be taken, some will be delicate: establishing a selection is not an exact science,” writes Frémaux...

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Earlier today, a story broke revealing that X-Men: Gold artist Ardian Syaf hid political and religious messages in the first issue of the new series. Referencing specific verses in the Quran and the current political situation in the artist’s home of the Republic of Indonesia, the messages were anti-semitic and anti-Christian in nature.

It goes without saying that this hasn’t gone down well, especially after Syaf later confirmed their meaning. Marvel has since stated that they were unaware of the hidden messages and would be removing them from subsequent printings and digital editions. Not only that, but they also said “disciplinary action” was being planned. However, as the X-Men: Gold artist is an independent contractor and not an actual employee, it’s not clear what exactly that means.

Now, however, Syaf has taken to...

German sales and production group Beta Film (Babylon Berlin) will take a strategic stake in X Filme, the German production and distribution company behind Run Lola Run, Cloud Atlas and Good Bye Lenin!

X Filme, founded in 1994 by producer Stefan Arndt and directors Tom Tykwer, Wolfgang Becker and Dani Levy, will be restructured to merge all production, distribution and sales operations under a single entity, X Filme Holding. Beta will become a strategic partner in X Filme Holding.

Beta teamed with X Filme on Tom Tykwer's upcoming TV series Babylon Berlin, with Beta co-financing and handling international sales on...

Another day, another slew of casting announcements, with a few them involving some actresses who’ve stepped in and out of the world of James Bond.

The “Blue Is The Warmest Color” stars are getting busy. First up, Adèle Exarchopoulos is joining Chulpan Khamatova (“Good Bye Lenin!”) and dancers Oleg Ivenko and Sergei Polunin to star in Ralph Fiennes’ next directorial effort “The White Crow.” About famous Russian ballet dancer and choreographer Rudolf Nureyev, the drama charts the iconic dancer’s famed defection from the Soviet Union to the West in 1961, despite Kgb efforts to stop him.

Continue reading Lea Seydoux, Adele Exarchopoulos, Eva Greene & Gemma Arterton Land New Roles at The Playlist.

Maren Ade’s German comedy-drama finds excruciating humour and great pathos in a surreal collision between father and daughter

Be honest, when was the last time you can remember a German comedy feature film making international headlines and garnering global awards? The bittersweet Good Bye Lenin!, perhaps, which picked up nominations at the Baftas and Golden Globes in 2004? Or 1992’s Oscar-nominated Schtonk!, the Hitler diaries farce that became a huge domestic hit while prompting international critical snipes about German comedy being no laughing matter.

A superbly uncomfortable sex scene will put you off petits fours for life, particularly the green ones

Continue reading...

Exclusive: Adèle Exarchopoulos and dancers Oleg Ivenko and Sergei Polunin will star in The White Crow; HanWay to handle world sales.

Blue Is The Warmest Colour star Adèle Exarchopoulos, Russian actress Chulpan Khamatova (Good Bye Lenin!) and dancers Sergei Polunin and Oleg Ivenko are to star in Ralph Fiennes’ Rudolf Nureyev drama The White Crow.

After an extensive search the production has settled on Russian dancer Ivenko to play iconic dancer Nureyev in the feature, which Fiennes will look to shoot on location in St Petersburg and Paris, including the iconic Mariinsky Theatre and the Palais Garnier, in summer 2017.

David Hare’s (The Hours) script, based on the biography Rudolf Nureyev: The Life by Julie Kavanagh, charts the iconic dancer’s famed defection from the Soviet Union to the West in 1961, despite Kgb efforts to stop him.

The script’s finale is set at Le Bourget airport in Paris and traces the dramatic day of the...

Exclusive: Adèle Exarchopoulos and dancers Oleg Ivenko and Sergei Polunin will star in The White Crow; HanWay to handle world sales.

Blue Is The Warmest Colour star Adèle Exarchopoulos, Russian actress Chulpan Khamatova (Good Bye Lenin!) and dancers Sergei Polunin and Oleg Ivenko are to star in Ralph Fiennes’ Rudolf Nureyev biopic The White Crow.

After an extensive search the production has settled on Russian dancer Ivenko to play Nureyev in the feature, which Fiennes will look to shoot on location in St Petersburg and Paris, including the iconic Mariinsky Theatre and the Palais Garnier, in summer 2017.

David Hare’s (The Hours) script, based on the biography Rudolf Nureyev: The Life by Julie Kavanagh, charts the iconic dancer’s famed defection from the Soviet Union to the West in 1961, despite Kgb efforts to stop him.

The script’s finale is set at Le Bourget airport in Paris and traces the dramatic day of the defection.

The...

Billy Chapin, who as a child actor held his own against Robert Mitchum’s murderous preacher in Charles Laughton’s brilliant The Night of the Hunter, died Friday following a lengthy illness. His death was announced by his sister Lauren Chapin, the former child actress who costarred in TV’s classic family sitcom Father Knows Best. “It is with a saddened heart that I say ‘Good Bye’ to my precious brother Billy Chapin, wonderful Star of Movies, Television and Radio,” Lauren…...

Every week, IndieWire asks a select handful of film and TV critics two questions and publishes the results on Monday. (The answer to the second, “What is the best film in theaters right now?”, can be found at the end of this post.)

This week’s question:

Last Friday saw the release of Garth Davis’ “Lion,” the musical score for which is the gorgeous result of a collaboration between two giants of the neo-classical movement, Dustin O’Halloran and Hauschka. It’s just the latest indication that we’re living in a fascinating, vibrant time for movie music, and December boasts a number of films that will only add more fuel to that fire. With that in mind, we asked our panel of critics to name their favorite film score of the 21st Century.

Tasha Robinson (@TashaRobinson), The Verge

There are some really striking contenders out there, topped by Susumu Hirasawa’s manic,...

Award Winning Director Wolfgang Becker (“Good Bye Lenin!”) will open the festival at the American Cinematheque’s Egyptian Theatre with “Me and Kaminski” bringing outstanding German cinema and its stars to Los Angeles from October 20 to 23rd.

Full Program Line Up Announced with a selection of the best new German, Austrian and Swiss Cinema

Celebrating its 10th year, German Currents features an expanded program including screenings of ten La premieres, conversations with prolific German directors, writers and actors, as well as the return of the free family matinee film screening for local schools.

“Me and Kaminski” starring Daniel Brühl and directed by Wolfgang Becker

2016 has been a successful year for German language cinema, not only in Europe, but across the globe. Beginning on Thursday, October 20th 2016 German Currents will open this year’s 4 day festival with the red carpet event Los Angeles premiere of Wolfgang Becker’s (“Goodbye Lenin”) five-time...

Anton Yelchin's sudden death continues to impact the family and friends who loved him dearly, including his Star Trek costar Zoe Saldana, who took to Instagram to mourn the loss of the on-the-rise actor. "Your sudden and unexpected departure has left us all broken hearted," she captioned an Instagram post showing a photo of the actor beaming while wearing a wide-brimmed hat. "I woke up today feeling absolute gratitude that I had you as a friend and colleague," she continued. "Your life has been cut short, but I will always tell everyone about you. You were kind, present, old souled,...

Anton Yelchin's sudden death continues to impact the family and friends who loved him dearly, including his Star Trek costar Zoe Saldana, who took to Instagram to mourn the loss of the on-the-rise actor. "Your sudden and unexpected departure has left us all broken hearted," she captioned an Instagram post showing a photo of the actor beaming while wearing a wide-brimmed hat. "I woke up today feeling absolute gratitude that I had you as a friend and colleague," she continued. "Your life has been cut short, but I will always tell everyone about you. You were kind, present, old souled,...

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Heroes clash in the latest film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Captain America: Civil War. Here's our spoiler-free verdict...

You have to hand it to Marvel: there aren’t many movie franchises that can cut from a bruising fight to a superhero contemplating whether or not to put paprika in the meal they’re preparing. That superhero happens to be Paul Bettany’s Vision, a character capable of displaying godlike powers in battle, yet happily sports a dapper white shirt and black sweater ensemble when he’s cooking up a storm in the kitchen.

Such is the elasticity of the Marvel brand in the hands of the right directors; in this instance, it’s the Russo brothers, back in the saddle following Captain America: The Winter Soldier, a thoroughly satisfying mix of conspiracy thriller and CGI action banquet. Civil War is more of the same, yet this instalment feels,...

"Babylon Berlin," the path-breaking joint serial project of X-Filme, Ard Degeto, Sky and Beta Film, is finalizing its pre-production and will start shooting in April. The high-end series, set in the roaring 1920s in Berlin, will be produced until the end of the year. Created by showrunner Tom Tykwer (“Sense 8”, “Cloud Atlas”, “Run Lola Run”) and his writer/director team Achim von Borries (“Alone in Berlin”) and Hendrik Handloegten (“Good Bye, Lenin”), "Babylon Berlin" stars “Generation War”-lead Volker Bruch and multiple-award-winning and up-and-coming actress Liv Lisa Fries (“She Deserved It”). The four partners have already signed in for two seasons. X-Filme producer Stefan Arndt: “We’re particularly happy that we’ll be able to complete two series of eight episodes each during the first shooting. This shows how enthusiastic and confident all of the partners are in our joint project.”

Kutscher’s "Babylon Berlin," centering on police inspector Gereon Rath, delivers an atmospheric portrayal of Berlin as the most exciting city in the world of that time, a hotbed of drugs and politics, murder and art, emancipation and extremism.

Sky will broadcast the series in 2017 and Ard in 2018. As co-producer, Beta Film will be responsible for the worldwide distribution of the series.

Beta Film’s director Jan Mojto explains, “Made in Germany is also a hallmark of quality in television. Due to the subject, the creative energy invested in the project, the names involved, its high standards, and not least, its budget, the first international reactions to the project have been very positive. 'Babylon Berlin' doesn’t need to take second stage to any of the major international series.”

The broadcasting team at Sky Deutschland and Ard Degeto emphasized how unique this collaboration is going to be. In the words of Volker Herres, program director at Erstes Deutsches Fernsehen: “We would like to build on the incredible success of Volker Kutscher’s novels. These are exciting stories with a historical background, and we want to present them to German television audiences in a serial production that holds up to international standards. With this goal, we benefit from a collaboration between three strong partners so X Filme and Tom Tykwer can implement the detective series in grand style.”

“Babylon Berlin,” Carsten Schmidt, Chief Executive Officer of Sky Deutschland reports, “is an exceptional project and a perfect match for Sky – bold storytelling, an outstanding cast, and Tom Tykwer’s incredibly creative team. The cooperation between X Filme, Ard, Degeto, and Beta Film is an impressive example of a fruitful and fair collaboration where all the partners are striking a unique path for Germany and Austria. With 'Babylon Berlin,' we are adding an in-house German production segment to our exclusive international agreements with such major partners as HBO and Showtime – a direction we will be moving in even more in the future.”

And Christine Strobl, managing director of Ard Degeto adds, “'Babylon Berlin' is a special project and very important for Ard. With this series, Ard Degeto will be offering Das Erste audiences a real treat that can stand up to international comparison from both the narrative and visual points of view. With regard to cooperation and financing, such an exceptional project deserves an exceptional approach. I am looking forward to the upcoming start of filming – judging from the screenplays, we can expect some outstanding television.”

A special challenge for the three authors and directors, Tom Tykwer, Achim von Borries, and Hendrik Handloegten. “For a long time, we were searching for subject matter that could tell the story of this unique era in all its facets,” Tom Tykwer explains. “We finally found it in Kutscher’s novels. And after Achim, Hendrik, and I spent three years working intensively on the screenplay, I can hardly wait now to get started.”

Achim von Borries adds, “The final years of the Weimar Republic were a time of continual crisis and constant attacks from political extremists. A rapidly growing city with immigrants from all over the world was in the middle of it all – Berlin, the international melting pot, with the pressure constantly mounting. This was a source of inexhaustible material for us as authors. And to finally have the opportunity to portray the atmosphere of the late 20s is a challenge to us as directors – absolutely huge and incredibly exciting.”

For Hendrik Handloegten, the city of Berlin plays one of the key roles: “Berlin in the final Weimar years was characterized by its fast pace, freedom, and diversity. But soon it was too much speed, too much freedom, too much diversity. A city that is always becoming, but never is. In 'Babylon Berlin,' the city is the protagonist. And Berlin in 1929 is a bestial, monstrous, famished and satiated, exalted and down-to-earth, elegant and degenerate, perverse and chaste… and mysterious protagonist. The best thing that could happen to an author and director.”

Stefan Arndt adds, “We’re really looking forward to capturing this exuberant episode of Berlin’s history here in the city itself, thanks to all our partners and sponsors. A stunning outdoor set is being built right now in Babelsberg that will evoke so many impressions of the city at the time. Together with our experienced film artists from our previous productions, we are greatly looking forward to bringing the world of the 1920s to life in a TV series. For all of us, this project is the dawn of a new epoch in television production.”

Volker Bruch captivated millions of television viewers with his portrayal of Wehrmacht officer Wilhelm in “Generation War”. As one of the five leading actors, he won a special prize at the 2013 Bavarian TV Awards for his performance, as well as a German Television Award and Emmy Award.

Liv Lisa Fries won considerable acclaim in the Ard film “She Deserved it”, where she plays the aggressive teenager Linda who tortures her classmate to death. She was awarded the 2012 Golden Camera as Best Young Actress for her convincing performance, and also won the 2011 Günter Strack Television Award.

The chief editors of "Babylon Berlin" are Christine Strobl, Sascha Schwingel, and Carolin Haasis (Ard Degeto), Gebhard Henke and Caren Toenissen (Wdr), and Marcus Ammon and Frank Jastfelder (Sky Deutschland). The producers for X Filme are Stefan Arndt, Uwe Schott, and Michael Polle.

The project is sponsored by Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg, Creative Europe Media, and the Nrw Film and Media Foundation.

In preparation for Sundance and Berlin, Beta has picked up worldwide rights to the Israeli feature in World Cinema Dramatic Competition Sundance, “Sand Storm” and Global Screen has picked up worldwide rights to the Colombian feature “Between Sand and Sea” (“La Ciénaga”)

By the producers of Venice Public Choice Award-winning “The Farewell Party”, “Sand Storm” is an Israeli drama, shot in Arabic by debut-writer/director Elite Zexer. It will have its World Premiere at Sundance on January 25 and the European premiere to follow at the Berlinale Panorama section in February.

“Sand Storm” is the second partnership between Beta Cinema and the Israeli 2-Team Productions ( Haim Mecklberg/ Estee Yacov-Mecklberg). The film was already given the top award at the Locarno Festival’s works-in-progress section.

As wedding festivities get underway in a Bedouin village in Southern Israel, Jalila finds herself in the awkward position of hosting her husband Suliman’s marriage to a second, much younger wife. During the celebration, Jalila stumbles across eldest daughter Layla’s involvement with a boy from her university—a strictly forbidden liaison that would shame the family. Burying the indignity of Suliman and his new bride living next door, Jalila also tries to contain Layla’s situation by clamping down on her. But younger and possessed of a boundless spirit, Layla sees a different life for herself...

Director Elite Zexer: “ ‘Sand Storm’ is 87 minutes, but for me, it's years. Years of an amazing ride, of passions, of struggles, of ups, of downs, of pure joy, of forever waiting or of an impossible run. Years of creation. What I learned during the making of this film is that the most wonderful part of filmmaking is the making. It's hard to part with it and let it run loose in the world. But it's also very exciting. I can't wait.”

Producer Haim Mecklberg (2-Team Production): “We're extremely proud of “Sand Storm”, which touched the hearts of everybody who was exposed to it so far. Our collaboration with Elite was a sheer delight. Her command of every aspect of the film did not seize to amaze us through every step of the production. After a great experience we had with Beta Cinema on “The Farewell Party” (Goldwyn distributed stateside), we were very happy to find out how much they loved “Sand Storm” and we're looking forward to another fruitful cooperation.”

Beta Cinema’s Thorsten Ritter says that “ ‘Sand Storm’ is a true gem. It depicts a very particular world and culture, but never in a folkloristic or exposing way. Instead it draws you right in to find yourself immersed in family dynamics that resonate universally and regardless of being a man or woman. And while the film has not a scene too many, it is yet nuanced and multi-layered, featuring beautiful performances and a filmmaker in full command. You can tell we’re very excited.”

The second announcement emanating about Sundance also comes from Germany

Colombian feature “Between Sea and Land” (“La Ciénaga”) directed by and starring Manolo Cruz was just picked up by Munich-based international sales agent Global Screen for the world (except for Latin America which will be handled by Cineplex and which Uip will distribute in Colombia itself).

It will have its world premiere January 22, 2016 at the Sundance Film Festival,

“Between Sea And Land” (“La Ciénaga”) is a breathtakingly tour de force from actor – writer - director Manolo Cruz, codirected with Carlos del Castillo. The film, set on a small inlet adjacent to the Caribbean Sea in Colombia, tells the moving story of 28-year-old Alberto and his mother Rosa.

Alberto is afflicted with a neurological disorder that confines him to his bed, and his mother, Rosa, lovingly protects and takes care of him. Alberto’s wry humor and creativity help them muster the strength to endure, and he greatly enjoys the company of his neighbor Giselle, who showers Alberto with affection. But the life Alberto can imagine feels just as close-yet-out-of-reach as the sea he looks upon, and which he dreams of one day visiting.

Manolo Cruz (who also wrote the film) gives a tremendous performance as Alberto, a young man trapped by physical hardship but unbound by spirit. Working in close alliance with his co-director Carlos del Castillo during filming allowed Cruz the space to portray the extraordinary resilience and grace of a character caught in between the margins of a beautiful and fragile landscape.

Klaus Rasmussen, Senior Sales and Acquisitions Manager at Global Screen states, “Our whole team was amazed with this unique and exceptional film that takes the viewer into a different world poor in materialism but rich in human heart and courage. We are very happy to present Manolo Cruz’s film to the international audience.”

“Between Sea And Land” (“La Ciénaga”) is produced by Mago Films in coproduction with Photogroup Films and Scarlett Cinema.

Global Screen GmbH is a leading German sales & distribution company for theatrical and TV films outside of German-speaking territories. Our company is one of the largest world-sales outfits in Europe and has a catalogue containing more than 15,000 titles. The theatrical distribution handles a varied portfolio of German- and foreign-speaking feature films focusing on commercial arthouse films, family entertainment, and high-profile documentary features.

Among Global Screen’s current theatrical films are “The Memory of Water” starring Elena Anaya, apocalyptic Sci-Fi Thriller "Sum1" starring Iwan Rheon, German action blockbuster “Nick – Off Duty” and Dominik Graf’s "Beloved Sisters", which represented Germany at the Academy Awards as well as Nadav Sherman’s "The Green Prince", who won the Audience Award at the Sundance Film Festival 2014. Global Screen’s portfolio contains also Erik Pope’s "A Thousand Times Good Night" starring Juliette Binoche and Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Sandra Nettelbeck’s "Mr. Morgan’s Last Love" with Michael Caine as well as Academy-Award-winning "Nowhere in Africa" (2001), "The Boat" (1981), "Good Bye, Lenin!" (2003), "When We Leave" (2009) and the very successful vampire arthouse hit "Let the Right One In" (2008). The high-profile 3D animation films "Niko & The Way to the Stars" and "Ooops! Noah is Gone…" were sold all over the world and established the company as one of the leaders in family entertainment distribution.

One of the best films premiering at this year’s Venice Film Festival, I said in my review of Afternoon, “It’s always been easier to review Tsai Ming-liang’s films than to make sense of them. Characterized by an often impenetrable language of silence and immobility, the Malaysian-born, Taiwan-based filmmaker’s work triggers all kinds of intuitive response that writers crave, yet those same writers might be hard-pressed to explain what they’ve just seen on screen. In this sense, Afternoon poses the exact opposite dilemma, in that it’s by far the most verbal and straightforward project from Tsai – but how do you assess, evaluate, grade something so close to life you’re not even sure what to call it in cinematic terms?”

Featuring Tsai and his long-time actor-of-choice Kang-sheng Lee as themselves in an extended, unscripted conversation shot on static camera, Afternoon has no discernible narrative arc,...

Emma Thompson, Brendan Gleeson and Daniel Bruhl star in "Alone in Berlin," an adaptation of Hans Fallada's novel about the true story of working class couple Otto and Anna Quangel who, after their son dies on the battlefield, stage a series of anonymous protests against the Nazi regime. Written by Achim von Borries, who cowrote the marvelous 2003 "Good Bye Lenin!" which also starred Bruhl, the film is directed by Swiss actor/filmmaker Vincent Perez. Former Focus Features head James Schamus is among the film's producers including X Filme’s Stefan Arndt and Uwe Schott and Master Movie’s Marco Pacchioni, and FilmWave’s Christian Grass and Paul Trijbits. Thompson also stars in the upcoming period piece "Effie Gray," and has "A Wak in the Woods," "Survivor" and "Adam Jones" coming up. Gleeson will be seen in Ron Howard's December adventure "In the Heart of the Sea" opposite Chris Hemsworth and Cillian.

Second World War drama will shoot on location in Berlin, Cologne and Görlitz.

The English-language adaptation of Hans Fallada’s classic 1947 novel Alone In Berlin is set to begin shooting in Germany.

Based on the true story of a working class couple who conducted a series of anonymous protests against the Nazi regime during the Second World War, principal photography will begin tomorrow (March 27) on location in Berlin, Cologne and Görlitz.

Emma Thompson (Saving Mr. Banks) and Brendan Gleeson (Calvary) star as Anna and Otto Quangel, with Daniel Brühl (Rush) playing Gestapo inspector Escherich.

Producers are Stefan Arndt and Uwe Schott for X-Filme, the German production outfit whose credits include Amour, The White Ribbon and Cloud Atlas.

Co-producers are Master Movie’s Marco Pacchioni together with James Schamus and FilmWave’s Christian Grass and Paul Trijbits.

French actor Vincent Perez will direct.

The screenplay was written by Achim von Borries (Good Bye Lenin!) and Vincent...

For years, Daniel Brühl couldn't walk through the streets of his home town, Berlin, without being accosted by elderly ladies wanting a hug. His breakthrough film, 2003's Good Bye Lenin! – in which he played Alex, a young man who pretends to his bed-ridden mother that the Berlin Wall has not fallen, for fear that the news will kill her – marked him out as 'the nicest guy in Germany, the perfect son-in-law'. He sighs. ‘It is nice, but it can be annoying. Years have passed.'...

Every year Villa Aurora follows its own long tradition of welcoming the German community and friends to socialize and celebrate the German contribution to American culture.

The German co-production “Citizenfour” by Laura Poitras (De/Us, Praxis Films, Br, Ndr) was awarded the Oscar® for Best Documentary Feature yesterday. “Citizenfour” has also received an Independent Spirit Award for Best Documentary Feature.

“The Grand Budapest Hotel” by Wes Anderson (Gb/De, Neunzehnte Babelsberg Film), another German co-production, picked up four Academy Awards® in the categories Best Production Design, Best Costume Design, Best Hair and Make-Up as well as Best Original Score. It had been nominated in nine categories.

A day before the Oscars®, German Films joined forces with the Villa Aurora and the German Consul-General in Los Angeles to hold their traditional reception in honor of the German Oscar® nominees at the garden of the Villa Aurora in Los Angeles.

The teams of “Citizenfour” comprising the German producers Dirk Wilutzky and Mathilde Bonnefoy, “The Grand Budapest Hotel” with the producers Carl Woebcken, Henning Molfenter and Christoph Fisser, the representatives of the German regional funders Carl Bergengruen of Mfg Baden-württemberg and Kirsten Niehuus of Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg as well as the director Wim Wenders, who was nominated for Best Documentary Feature for “The Salt Of The Earth," celebrated there with guests from the German and international film industry.

The beautiful Spanish Deco home at 520 Paseo Miramar in the Pacific Palisades was bought by the famed author, Lion Feuchtwanger and his wife Marta in 1943 the same year that he published The Devil in France, the account of his imprisonment by the Nazis in the South of France before he fled to the U.S.

In September of 1940, with the support of Varian Fry and the U.S. Vice Consul in Marseille, Hiram Bingham, Lion and Marta were able to join another group of exiles in crossing the Pyrenees on foot. They made their journey from Lisbon to New York on different ships. From there, they traveled to Los Angeles, and in 1943 moved into the Villa Aurora, which soon became a focal point in the lives of many intellectuals and artists who had fled from Germany including Bertold Brecht, Thomas Mann and his brother Heinrich Mann, Marlene Dietrich.

Their German passports had been confiscated by the Nazis. In the McCarthy era, Feuchtwanger was scrutinized as a “premature antifascist” by the House Un-American Activities Committee. Fearing that he would not be allowed to return, he never traveled outside the U.S. again. After years of immigration hearings, Feuchtwangers application for American citizenship was finally granted, but the letter informing Feuchtwanger of the fact was not received until a day after his death.

Marta bequeathed to the University of Southern California the library and the house in exchange for the life-long right to live in the Villa. She was appointed curator of the Villa and was politically and culturally active. The Villa remained a social destination in Los Angeles. In 1987 she died at the age of 96.

"So, in my fiftieth year, I literally arrived in the U.S. on foot. Has that made me a U.S. citizen? Can a piece of paper change half a century of my life? I don’t believe it. Now, that I have only 10 years to complete the second half of the century, I feel, it is good to have the citizenship of a country that unites my German routes with the ones of many other nations. Being American is very close to being a citizen of the world."

Source: Marta Feuchtwanger: Only a Woman, Years Days Hours, Aufbau Verlag Berlin Leipzig, 1984

Celebrating the Academy Award Nominees at the same time as 20 years of present ownership of the Villa Aurora and at the same time as 25 years after German reunification, restoration of the famed Babelsberg Studios made this year especially notable.

At the party, I had the chance to speak with Mariette Rissenbeek, Managing Director or German Films.

How long have you been with German Export?

I started in 2002, 13 years ago. I was in charge of festivals and public relations. The position gave me rewarding insights into festivals and I was able to meet many producers.

What changes have you seen in your time there?

I started a year after “Good Bye Lenin” and “Nowhere in Africa”. In the 2000s, German films became very popular internationally. Since 2011 I have been the Managing Director which involves lots of administration and politics.

How do German films do abroad?

Every year two to three titles work well. “Phoenix” is doing very well in France. “Hannah Arendt” and “The Lives of Others” did well worldwide. This year we have “Elser” (“Thirteen Minutes”) which just premiered in Berlin and of course “Salt of the Earth” and “CitizenFour” (winner of the 2015 Spirit Award for Best Documentary), “Victoria” which Adopt Films acquired for U.S.

Germans have consistently won Academy Awards since 1929 when Emil Jannings won for Best Actor in “The Way of All Flesh” and “ The Last Command”.

I also had the chance to speak with the Director of Villa Aurora, my friend since her days at Goethe Institute.

How long have you been Director of Villa Aurora ?

Three years in May.

You moved over from Goethe Institute and have changed Villa Aurora significantly. Can you tell us what changes it has undergone since you took over as its director?

When I applied for the position, I gave my vision for the Villa in various areas which included increased visibility, and renovations, as the home was in a rather neglected state. I also wanted our guests to network more with the Los Angeles arts community. So now their work appears in galleries, they give master classes and they show their work.

I had support from the Berlin headquarters and the German Foreign office and so we could renovate, landscape and install better lighting. I love creative work and this has been very satisfying.

Similarly as at the Goethe Institute, I still network and organize events, but I am also a “den mother” to the fellows. At this time we have five artists in residence. Four are here for three months and one is here for eight months – a writer in exile who cannot live in the native country of birth. We have had a writer from Syria living in Turkey; last year we had someone from Viet Nam and before, a blogger from Belarus living in Poland.

We also have an agreement with Cal Arts to send an artist to Germany to work and present their work.

Once again the congeniality and milieu brought together Hollywood and Germany, a partnership which goes back to the first days of the Hollywood we know today.

And you think eBay is stressful. Thursday night's episode of Scandal saw the nail-biting - and blood-splattering, but we'll get to that later - online bidding war over Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington). Basically every terrorist ever wanted a piece of Pope, who's now publicly proven to be President Fitz's (Tony Goldwyn) weakness - and thus, the United States of America's. Most Scandalous Moments• Cyrus Beene (Jeff Perry) fired all of the turncoat Secret Service agents, protecting the president with Navy Seals instead. He also tried to force Andrew Nichols (Jon Tenney) to resign as vice president now that his ransom plan has been foiled.

Yes, that’s a six and a zero. It’s not a typo. While excessive might be the first adjective that comes to mind when looking at a year-end list with 60 films, it was the only way that I was able to highlight all the great works that I was able to watch this year. Even with such an extensive best-of countdown I was forced to leave at least another dozen great films. In 2014 I watched around 300 theatrically released films, and about 130 more between unreleased films from the festival circuit, the Oscar Foreign Language Submissions, and new films I watched as a screener for a couple festivals. Taking all these into consideration, a Top 60 list did not seem like an outrageous feat.

There were many other films that I did in fact watch but didn’t make the list, such as “Wild,” “Interstellar,” “The Imitation Game,” “Unbroken,” “The Theory of Everything,” “Big Hero 6,” “Big Eyes,” "A Most Violent Year" and “Into the Woods.” Although none of these ended up among my favorites, many of them served as vehicles for the cast to deliver outstanding performances or showcased great cinematography and VFX. I mention this to clarify that their omission was a conscious decision.

Evidently, there were several acclaimed films I did not manage to watch, which could have made a difference. These include films like "Love is Strange," “Maps to the Stars,” “Stray Dogs,” “Top Five,” and “Rosewater.”

The films on this list include films that had a regular release in 2014, films that some consider to be 2013 films but which got a full release in 2014, and films that had a one-week qualifying run in 2014 but which will officially open in 2015. Other amazing films that I saw at festivals, but which did not have a theatrical release of any form this year will be included in next year’s list. Examples of these include “The Tribe,” “Timbuktu,” “The Voices” “Gueros,” “Viktoria,” and “Kumiko, the Treasure Hunter.”

Like with all lists, this is a very personal selection of films that connected with me on different levels. Some choices might be strange, others expected, but all of them speak to what I find interesting or great about cinema. I hope that with this list you can find titles you haven’t hear of or others you might have forgotten about. It has been such a terrific year for films. Here is hoping for 2015 to be even more inspiring.

Feel free to share with us what your favorite films of 2014 were in the comments section.

Honorary Mention for Favorite TV Series: "Over the Garden Wall"

In Patrick McHale’s enchanting Cartoon Network miniseries, “Over the Garden Wall,” brothers Wirt (Elijah Wood) and adorable Greg (Collin Dean) travel through the Unknown, a magical forest filled with peculiar characters. Blending a classic fable look with witty humor and catchy songs for a fantastically refreshing 2D cartoon, the show is rapidly - and deservingly - becoming a fan favorite. Once you see little Greg performing the sweet tune Potatoes and Molasses, it will all make sense.

Top 60 Films Of 2014

60. "Happy Christmas"

Anna Kendrick is an irresponsible, yet charming, young woman in Joe Swanberg’s holiday-infused family dramedy. “Happy Christmas” is small in scope but big in subtle amusement. Baby Jude Swanberg steals every scene.

59."Mood Indigo"

Whimsical, ingenious, and uniquely confected, Michel Gondry’s adaption of Boris Vian’s novel stars Audrey Tautou and Romain Duris. His latest romantic fantasy is heartwarming visual candy.

Review "Mood Indigo"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Tautou

58. "Lilting"

A cross-cultural connection in the aftermath of tragedy is at the center of Hong Khaou’s touching debut. Through great performances and ethereal cinematography the filmmaker reassures us love is the only language that matters.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Hong Khaou

57. "Captain America: The Winter Soldier"

With an intelligent and fun screenplay, this new entry in the Marvel universe showed us that - despite all the badassery he is capable of - all that Steve Rogers wants is his best friend back.

Review "Captain America: The Winter Soldier"

56. "Oculus"

Mike Flanagan doesn’t resort to excessive gore or a monumental story to instill fear. Instead, he uses the effective mechanics of his story to turn a room with an old mirror, a camera, and a pair of youngsters into a terrifying space.

55. "Rich Hill"

Looking at a segment of the American population from a uniquely compassionate and insightful perspective, “Rich Hill” cherishes the humanity of its subject rather than patronizing them.

54. "The Notebook"

The brutality of war is observed through the eyes of a pair of twin brothers who decide to detach themselves from any emotional connection in order to survive. Unflinching and powerful, “The Notebook” is part dark fairytale and part historical drama.

Review "The Notebook"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with János Szász

53. "Blue Ruin"

This gritty and unpredictable thriller follows a man whose thirst for revenge becomes his death sentence. Macon Blair’s character goes from passively hiding in the shadows to becoming a ruthless rookie assassin. Tension is the name of the game here.

52. "The Book of Life"

The ancient Mexican celebration of Day of the Death comes to life in this vibrant and surprisingly authentic animated feature from Jorge Gutierrez and producer Guillermo del Toro. It’s a colorful and intricately designed vision of beloved tradition.

51. "The German Doctor" (Wakolda)

Lucia Puenzo’s captivating mystery focuses on infamous Nazi physician Josef Mengele, as he tries to test his disturbing practices on family while hiding in the Argentine countryside. Elegantly executed and definitely unsettling

Review "The German Doctor"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Lucia Puenzo

Sydney Levine's Case Study on "The German Doctor"

50. "Still Alice"

Lost, confused, but still fighting to preserve her individuality while facing the imminent effects of Alzheimer’s disease, Alice refuses to give up. Julianne Moor is absolutely stunning and heartbreaking.

49. "American Sniper"

Eastwood’s best film in a long time packs thrilling combat sequences as it looks at post-9/11 American patriotism via a simple man turned murder weapon. Bradley Cooper delivers the best performance of his career.

48. "The Lego Movie "

Pop culture has never been as hilarious and witty as in this uniquely animated story about individuality, the nature of heroism, and the power of a child’s imagination. With cameos galore and jokes aplenty, everything is indeed awesome.

47. "Manuscripts Don't Burn "

Mohammad Rasoulof’s fearless cinematic statement denouncing the Iranian regime is an incredible testament to the power of film as a cultural weapon against injustice. Not only is the film politically relevant, but also an all-around gripping thriller.

Review "Manuscripts Don't Burn"

46. "Guardians of the Galaxy "

This summer Marvel outdid itself with the truly enjoyable first installment of its newest franchise. Charismatic Chris Pratt as Star Lord, a more than memorable soundtrack, and an eclectic group of sidekicks made this the smartest summer hit.

45. "In Bloom"

Set in Tbilisi, Georgia, this unique coming-of-age tale is a riveting hidden gem that sports mesmerizing performances from its young cast. The filmmakers find evocative, everyday beauty in the hardships of life in a war-torn country.

Review "In Bloom"

44. "Goodbye to Language"

Godard’s use of 3D in this highly experimental work produces a physical reaction on the viewer that proves how alive the auteur’s vision still is. He is as cryptic, curious, innovative, unapologetic, and brilliant as he was over 50 years ago.

43. "Mistaken for Strangers"

Tom Berninger’s personal documentary is not a film about The National, but about a man trying to find his own path while reconnecting with his older brother – who happens to be a rock star. Fun, heartfelt, and honest.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Tom and Matt Berninger

42. "Manakamana"

Simple on the surface but hauntingly poetic, this documentary focuses on a series of people as they travel up to a sacred shrine in Nepal. Their faces speak in silences, laughter, and visible sadness, which form a language far more stirring than ephemeral words.

41. "Whiplash"

J.K. Simmons is a nightmarish instructor in Damien Chazelle’s fascinating debut about a young drummer by obsessive passion. The final sequence is an astonishing showstopper that sports marvelous, flawless editing

40. "The Overnighters"

What starts as the story about a Good Samaritan helping those in need despite criticisms, turns into an examination of a conflicted man. Faith, lies, regret and the judgmental eyes of an entire community will become his agonizing cross to bear.

39. "Rocks in My Pockets"

Latvian artist Signe Baumane uses 2D animation to work through her insecurities, her relationships with her estrange family, and depression. Craft and substance merge to construct an absorbing personal statement that is unexpectedly relatable.

Sydney Levine's Feature Piece on "Rocks in My Pockets"

38. "The Missing Picture"

To reconstruct his family’s past, and by extension that of his homeland under the Khmer Rouge, director Rithy Panh uses clay figurines and evocative narration in the absence of images from the time. One of the most original documentaries ever made.

Review "The Missing Picture"

37. "Snowpiercer"

Art house sensibilities imbedded into a powerful post-apocalyptic tale from South Korean director Bong Joon-ho gave us a superbly sophisticated actioner. Chris Evans delivers a different, but equally great heroic performance. However, Tilda Swinton takes the prize here.

36. "Life Itself"

Roger Ebert’s love for life and movies was endless. Despite major health issues near the end, his spirits and voice were never weakened. Steve James intimate documentary captures both the man and the critic in a lovely manner.

35. "Gone Girl"

Fincher’s latest focuses on a media circus fueled by a couple’s despicable lies and the public’s voyeuristic desire to find a villain and a victim. While Ben Affleck is good here, the film thrives on Rosamund Pike’s wickedly clever role.

34. "Two Days, One Night"

Only the Dardenne brothers can transform seemingly banal situations into compelling narratives that question the morality of their characters. In their latest masterful effort Marion Cotillard’s talent shines as she balances desperation, pride, and hope.

33. "Foxcatcher"

Driven by a trifecta of great performances, Bennett Miller’s drama shows a disturbed man in search of recognition and validation by any means necessary. Channing Tatum deserves more praise for his nuanced work here.

32. "Omar"

At once timeless and decisively current, Hany Abu-Asad’s Shakespearean crime drama deals with Israeli-Palestinian relations from a humanistic point of view. The political issues that serve as context become more urgent when seen through the characters’ struggles.

Review "Omar"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Hany Abu-Assad

31. "Mr. Turner"

The awe-inspiring cinematography and Timothy Spall’s grumpy, yet endearing portrayal of one of Britain’s most revered painters make of “Mr. Turner” another successful addition to Mike Leigh’s near-perfect track record.

30. "Nymphomaniac"

Blasphemous, explicit, and cerebral as most of Lars von Trier’s works, this two-part recollection of the anecdotes takes us into the tortured mind of a sex addict. There is no sugarcoating or redemption to be found here, only a skillful provocateur who loves to revel in the playful bleakness of it all.

Review "Nymphomaniac Vol. 1"

Review "Nymphomaniac Vol. 2"

29. "Gloria"

A middle-aged woman takes control of her life in this excellent Chilean dramedy. The title character, played by the lovely Paulina Garcia, wants to find love once again and to live without restrains. As she dances the night away we are certain that, despite the hardships, she will.

Review "Gloria"

Sydney Levine's interview with Sebastian Lelio and Paulina Garcia

28. "The Babadook"

A vicious boogieman terrorizes a mother and her son in this Australian horror masterpiece. Like with the best films in the genre, is what you don’t see that’s the most disturbing. Dir. Jennifer Kent uses creepy guttural sounds, shadows, and a malevolent children’s book to psychologically inflict fear.

27. "Ernest & Celestine"

Delightfully crafted to look like a collection of gorgeous moving watercolors, this French animated feature based on Gabrielle Vincent’s books is a visual treat and reminds us of the innocent fables from yesteryear.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Benjamin Renner

26. "Hide Your Smiling Faces"

Two brothers growing up in a small town are confronted with the notion of death and the complexities of the adult world in this remarkably done debut by Daniel Patrick Carbone. An absolute must-see that deserves a wider audience.

Review "Hide Your Smiling Faces"

25. "Stranger by the Lake"

In Alain Guiraudie’s beachside mystery, a murderous romance hides underneath warm weather and desire. This provocative, darkly comedic and splendidly acted slow-burner shows that danger is sometimes the most lethal aphrodisiac.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Alain Guiraudie

24. "Heli"

Amat Escalante’s brave and brutally honest depiction of Mexico’s violent present is unquestionably a difficult cinematic experience. However, the filmmaker is capable of finding resilient hope in the midst of overwhelming despair.

Review "Heli"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Amat Escalante

23. "CitizenFour"

Few embellishments are needed when you have such a shocking and important story told not from an outsider’s perspective, but from its source. Fiction falls short in comparison to the truths and secrets encompassed in Laura Poitras account of the Edward Snowden case.

22. "Force Majeure"

Gender roles are questioned with humorous but poignant observations on marriage and societal expectations in this Swedish hit from Ruben Östlund. Laugh-out-loud moments galore and an unforgettable “man cry” sequence are the result of a catastrophic controlled avalanche.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Ruben Östlund and Johannes Kuhnke

21. "The Guest"

Adam Wingard’s perversely comedic stunner about a devilishly deceiving visitor was by far one of the most outrageously fun films I saw this year. It’s a masterwork of madness. I can’t wait to see what Wingard, writer Simon Barrett, and star Dan Stevens do next.

20. "Obvious Child"

Jenny Slate’s Donna Stern is navigating adulthood through laughter. Her standup performances are unfiltered, moving, and often hilariously distasteful, but always sincere. Slate and director Gillian Robespierre are a match made in comedy heaven.

Review "Obvious Child"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Gillian Robespierre and Jenny Slate

19. "Inherent Vice"

There are numerous wacky characters and subplots in Paul Thomas Anderson’s adaption of Thomas Pynchon novel, but the real magic happens when Joaquin Phoenix and Josh Brolin are together on screen. “Motto panukeiku!” is all I have to say.

18. "Starred Up"

Jack O’Connell’s award-deserving performance packs raw energy, ferocious anger, and tragic vulnerability. Violence and respect are the only useful currencies in this potent prison drama that’s as thrilling as it’s emotionally devastating.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with David Mackenzie

17. "Listen Up Philip"

Brimming with originality and uncompromising humor, Alex Ross Perry’s look at the writing craft is pure brilliance. Jason Schwartzman stars as an obnoxious, self-centered young author. He is as utterly amusing and revels in his character’s hilarious arrogance.

16. "Boyhood"

Thanks to Richard Linklater’s perseverance we were able to experience an incredible and incomparable cinematic journey. Filled with small, but affecting moments of sorrow and joy, a child’s life - and that of those around him - literally unfolds on screen somewhere between reality and fiction.

15. "Selma"

Avoiding all the dreaded biopic clichés, director Ava DuVernay created a powerful historical drama that couldn’t be more opportune. Among a star-studded cast, David Oyelowo delivers a knockout performance as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

14. "Under the Skin"

Life on earth as seen by a seductive alien is simultaneously frightening and revelatory in Jonathan Glazer’s dazzling sci-fi character study. Scarlett Johansson is superb as a creature intrigued by the virtues and shortcomings of human nature.

Review "Under the Skin"

13. "The Grand Budapest Hotel"

Everything we love about Wes Anderson and much more is included in this stylized beauty of a film. Ralph Fiennes is an irreverent, classy, womanizer that gets into trouble with an array of quirky villains played by a topnotch cast. From its score to the production design, this is Anderson at his best.

12. "The Boxtrolls"

Laika’s craftsmanship reached a new level of delightful greatness with this darkly comedic period piece. Their brand of stop-motion animation is impeccable. Each character is meticulously created with a wonderful physicality that no other medium can provide.

Review "The Boxtrolls"

11. "Leviathan"

Andrey Zvyagintsev’s masterpiece dissects the complexity of Russian society through a family drama that is as intimate as it is monumental in the themes it explores. Religion, government, and betrayal are all monsters haunting a righteous man at the mercy or their powers.

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Andrey Zvyagintsev

10. "Only Lovers Left Alive"

Between desolated Detroit and a moody Marrakesh, Jim Jarmusch's darkly comedic film delivers an incredibly original tale about familiar bloodsuckers. Permeated in groovy rock and roll music, vintage wardrobe, blissful production design, and an otherworldly atmosphere, “Only Lovers Left Alive” reclaims vampires as graceful, complex, and cultured beings, rather than the vehicle for teenage fantasies

Review "Only Lovers Left Alive"

9. "Nightcrawler"

Brutally unapologetic about the bloodthirsty practices of today’s media, Dan Gilroy’s directorial debut is a fantastic vehicle for Jake Gyllenhaal to deliver a performance unlike anything he’s done before. Outrageously insightful, Gilroy’s writing is a perverse delight that is at once analytical and utterly entertaining.

8. "Birdman"

While definitely hilarious, Inarritu’s latest work offers sharp observations on the nature of art and artists. This is a giant leap into new territory for the acclaimed Mexican filmmaker. His undeniable talent directing actors is what elevates his work from just a brilliant idea to a work that thrives on touching human vulnerability. Added to this, Emanuel Lubeski’s work in the cinematography department is a visual treat.

7. "Wild Tales"

This insanely inventive collection of deranged stories questions violence and revenge from a comedic angle. Besides being a complete riot that packs in uproarious humor, Damian Szifron’s film demonstrates his ability to create a cohesive film out of diverse vignettes united by the dark side of human nature. From start to finish, “Wild Tales” is truly a savagely fun trip.

Sydney Levine's Feature Piece on "Wild Tales"

6. "The Tale of the Princess Kaguya"

Studio Ghibli’s co-founder Isao Takahata demonstrates once more that his work is as spectacular as anything else the studio has created. His brand of handcrafted animation is of a uniquely exquisite kind that flows on the screen like streams of vibrant beauty. ‘The Tale of the Princess Kaguya” is perhaps his most striking work

5. "A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night"

This black and white, Persian-language vampire film is a revelation. Style and story elegantly arranged to be poetic and ethereal throughout. Undoubtedly the most dazzling feature debut of the year. Ana Lily Amirpour has a unique vision forged out of her fascination with genre films, music, and other peculiar interests, all of which blend into a delightful cocktail of beauty, danger, and pure originality.

4. "Winter Sleep"

Nuri Bilge Ceylan defines what being an auteur means every times he is behind the camera. Palme d’Or or not, “Winter Sleep” is the only film over 3 hours that has kept me fully engaged for every second of it. Every line of dialogue is as thought provoking as the next without being pretentious. He finds the fibers of human behavior and stretches them to their limit in every single scene. Absolutely mesmerizing

Review "Winter Sleep"

Sydney Levine's Feature Piece on "Winter Sleep" from Cannes

3. "Mommy"

The tenderly violent love between a mother and a son make for an intoxicating tour de force. Xavier Dolan plays with aspect ratios, music, evocative cinematography and raw, maddening emotions to produce one of the most heartbreaking and intense experiences I’ve ever had watching a film. I was in a complete state of exhilaration until the very last, perfect, frame.

2. "Ida"

There is not a single miscalculation in Pawel Pawlikowski’s immaculate post-Holocaust drama. Each frame is a stunning work of sheer perfection. Flawless cinematography, riveting performances by both leading actresses, and a story that is subtle on the surface but carries intense undertones about spirituality and the consequences of guilt, make of “Ida” a masterwork to be cherished for years to come

Review "Ida"

Sydney Levine's interview with Pawel Pawlikowski

1. "Song of the Sea"

I'm certain some people will think me crazy for choosing this film as my favorite of the year, but witnessing Tomm Moore’s gorgeous and ethereal craftsmanship was an unforgettable experience. What he was able to achieve here, both in technique and emotional poignancy, is absolutely outstanding. "Song of the Sea" is one of the most blissfully beautiful animated films ever made. It is a gem beaming with awe-inspiring, heartwarming magic. It will be a long time before animation reaches this level of mesmerizing artistry again.

Review "Song of the Sea"

Carlos Aguilar's interview with Tomm Moore...

Daniel Bruhl is next to join the Marvel cinematic universe. Quite possibly in Doctor Strange as well as Captain America 2...

Production starts early next year on Captain America: Civil War, the film that's expected to kickstart some major changes in the Marvel cinematic universe. There are links at the bottom if you want more spoilery stuff about it, but we'll keep this story spoiler-free.

Anyway, we know that Chris Evans will be reprising the role of Steve Rogers/Captain America, and we also know that Joe and Anthony Russo are returning to direct, having scored a sizeable critical and commercial hit with Captain America: The Winter Soldier.

Now though, Marvel has directly confirmed that Daniel Bruhl has joined the cast of Captain America: Civil War. Bruhl's performance in Rush is probably our favourite of his to date, although do track down the German comedy Good Bye Lenin! if you get a chance.

When you're as successful as Marvel, you get your pick of actors. It speaks to their growing stature that they recently snagged Benedict Cumberbatch to play "Doctor Strange," and now they've roped another acclaimed actor into their fold. The studio announced today that Daniel Bruhl has joined the cast of "Captain America: Civil War." The actor is likely best known for his turns in "Good Bye Lenin!," "The Bourne Ultimatum," Quentin Tarantino's "Inglourious Basterds," and Ron Howard's "Rush." In both foreign and Hollywood films he's always a welcome presence, but who will he play here? Well, Marvel isn't saying (though Deadline reports Bruhl will take a villain role), so we're going to leave it you to guess below. But remember, this third installment of the 'Captain America' franchise will likely see Chris Evans' Steve Rogers and Robert Downey's Jr.'s Tony Stark on opposing sides. "Captain America: Civil War...

Oscar winners don't get more deserving than this gripping psychological thriller which follows a hardline East German communist's gradual disenchantment with a corrupt regime. Ulrich Muhe is superb as the meticulous secret policeman who, while monitoring a suspected dissident, finds himself questioning the cause to which he has devoted his life. This intelligent and emotionally satisfying movie is the acid corrective to the "Ostalgie" of Good Bye Lenin.

Kim Dotcom has severed all ties with digital music company Baboom, which he helped found. The music industry hates him, the controversial Dotcom said on Twitter Thursday in arguing that his involvement held back the company. "Good bye @Baboom. I was holding u back. The music industry hates me," he tweeted. "You'll do better without me. Good luck my love.‎" The former Megaupload boss launched Baboom in 2013, pitching it as a way for musicians to distribute their creations directly to fans via streams and downloads, while getting paid.‎ The German quit his post as chief of cloud storage

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International and documentary competitions include The Skeleton Twins, ‘71 and The Look of Silence. A total of 17 world premieres secured for the festival, which has received a budget boost.

The 10th Zurich Film Festival (Sept 25 – Oct 5) has revealed its full line-up, which comprises 145 features – up from 122 last year – from 29 countries.

Co-director Nadja Schildknecht revealed a rise in budget for the festival as well as growth in anticipated guest numbers.

“This year, we expect some 500 guests (previous year 450) from around the world to accompany their films,” she said.

“And the budget has increased accordingly to CHF6.9m ($7.4m) (previous year CHF6.1m/$6.5m).”

As previously announced, Tate Taylor’s James Brown biopic Get On Up will open the festival on Sept 25. The closing film has yet to be revealed.

International competition

The International Feature Film Competition includes 14 titles, some of which have received critical acclaim at previous festivals such as Yann Demange’s action thriller ‘71, which debuted at the...

Susanne Bier to head international competition jury at Zurich Film Festival, which also includes Us actor Val Kilmer, Bosnian director Jasmila Žbanic and more.Scroll down for full jury line-ups

Oscar-winning director Susanne Bier is to preside over the international feature film jury at the 10th Zurich Film Festival (Sept 25 - Oct 5).

The Danish filmmaker, who won her Best Foreign-Language Film Oscar for In A Better World in 2011, is currently on the festival circuit with A Second Chance and Jennifer Lawrence, Bradley Cooper drama Serena.

She will oversee a jury that includes Us actor Val Kilmer, best known for roles in Heat, Batman Forever and Top Gun, and Bosnian director Jasmila Žbanić, who won the Berlin Golden Bear in 2006 with Grbavica.

Also on the jury is Marie Masmonteil, the French producer of Party Girl, which picked up prizes at Cannes in May, and Jerusalem Film Festival winner Gett: The Trial of Viviane Amsalem, currently playing...

A particular highlight of the Cannes Film Festival last year, Mohammad Rasoulof’s Manuscripts Don’t Burn is an uncompromising look at the oppression faced by intellectuals under a totalitarian regime. The government in question, though, is the home country of the filmmaker. The film was shot in secret and, when the film premiered as part of Un Certain Regard, the Iranian government opted to pretend that the film did not exist at all (and, at Telluride, the government touted the “two” Iranian films screening at the festival when, indeed, Rasoulof’s feature was the otherwise unmentioned third). Seeing the film, it is no surprise that the establishment would prefer to ignore it. Rasoulof makes no effort to soften the tone (or the criticism), approaching controversial (in Iran) subject matter directly that he has otherwise addressed allegorically (in The Twilight, Iron Island and The White Meadows) until his groundbreaking Goodbye.

Among the many embryonic films jostling for buyers’ attention at the film market of this year’s Cannes festival, Vincent Perez’ new film Alone In Berlin is attracting plenty of interest thanks to a cast that now includes Emma Thompson, Daniel Bruhl and Mark Rylance.Good Bye Lenin’s Achim von Borries has adapted Hans Fallada’s novel, itself based on a true story. The plot finds a couple living in Berlin, with the city in the grip of Nazi rule. They try to keep a low profile and avoid trouble, but when their only child is killed on the front line, the loss prompts them to a stunning act of resistance.Perez, still probably best known to British audiences for his acting work in Cyrano de Bergerac or La Reine Margot, and producer Marco Pacchioni secured the rights to the book seven years ago and have been trying to...

Academy Award-winner Emma Thompson (Saving Mr. Banks, the Harry Potter series), and actors Daniel Brühl (Rush, Inglourious Basterds), and Mark Rylance (The Other Boelyn Girl) have been confirmed to star in Vincent Pérez’s Alone In Berlin.

Based on a true story, Hans Fallada’s powerful and redemptive novel, written shortly after the Second World War describes a city paralyzed by fear. Otto and Anna Quangel are an ordinary couple living in a shabby apartment block in Berlin trying, like everyone else, to stay out of trouble under Nazi rule. But when their only child is killed fighting at the front, their loss propels them into an extraordinary act of resistance. They start to drop anonymous postcards all over the city attacking Hitler and his regime. If caught, it means certain execution. Soon their campaign comes to the attention of the Gestapo inspector, Escherich, and a murderous game of cat-and-mouse begins.

Academy Award-winner Emma Thompson (Saving Mr. Banks, the Harry Potter series), and renowned actors Daniel Brühl (Rush, Inglourious Basterds), and Mark Rylance (The Other Boelyn Girl) have been confirmed to star in Vincent Pérez.s Alone in Berlin. X-Filme.s Stefan Arndt and Uwe Schott (Cloud Atlas, Amour), Master Movie's Marco Pacchioni (Bluesbreaker, Bye Bye Blondie) are producing together with James Schamus (Brokeback Mountain, Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon) with a screenplay written by Achim von Borries (Good Bye Lenin!) and Pérez.

The Golden Lola for best feature film went to veteran director Edgar Reitz’s Home From Home - Chronicle of a Vision at the German Film Awards.Scroll down for full list of winners

The black-and-white epic, set in a fictitious village in Germany’s Hunsrück region in the mid-19th century, also received awards for Best Director and Best Screenplay (shared with co-author Gert Heidenreich) after being nominated by the members of the German Film Academy in a total of six categories.

The co-production with Margaret Ménégoz’s Les Films du Losange is handled internationally by Arri Media Worldsales and was released theatrically in Germany by Concorde Filmverleih.

The prizes were handed out at the 64th annual film awards, held in Berlin.

Austrian accent to ceremony

The night belonged to Austrian film-maker Andreas Prochaska and his producers Helmut Grasser of Allegro Film and Stefan Arndt of X Filme Creative Pool with their Alpine western The Dark...

James Schamus, X-Filme, Alison Thompson bring hot title to market.

The English-language adaptation of Hans Fallada’s classic 1947 novel Alone in Berlin is heading to the Cannes marche with a stellar team behind it, including former Focus Features CEO James Schamus and X-Filme and Alison Thompson’s fledgling sales outfit Sunray Films.

French actor Vincent Perez will direct the script from Good Bye, Lenin! writer Achim von Borries.

Inspired by a true story, Fallada’s bestseller charts the remarkable story of a working class husband and wife who, acting alone, became part of the German Resistance during Nazi rule.

Cast is expected to be announced during the Cannes marche, with the production targeting British and German actors for the lead roles.

Sunray Films, the new London-based outfit of former Focus Features International co-president Alison Thompson, will handle worldwide sales. Pathe will distribute in France and Benelux.

Stefan Arndt and Uwe Schott produce for X-Filme, the German...

After censorship, a jail sentence, and a 20-year prohibition from filmmaking, defiant director Mohammad Rasoulof returned to brave new work with "Manuscripts Don't Burn," a charged political thriller that draws on real events surrounding censorship and oppression in Iran. Kino Lorber has announced that it has picked up all Us distribution rights to the work, which was a secret project until its arrival on the festival circuit at last year's Cannes Film Festival. Filmed without federal permission (like his last film "Goodbye" in 2012), "Manuscripts Don't Burn" chronicles the story of Kasra, an Iranian author who confronts brutality and censorship when he tries to leave the country with his secretly-written memoirs. After screening at last year's Cannes and the Toronto International Film Festival, it is now slated for a one-week theatrical premiere at the Museum of Modern Art in June. Later this year, Kino Lorber will release the film on VOD,...