Saint (Sint) – Closing out the Late Night Series With a Bang

It’s been a wild ride throughout the course of this year’s Late Night series, ranging from the campy, to the creepy, to the delightfully gory. With this in mind, it seems appropriately fitting that tonight’s final Late Show presentation is an entertaining blend of all three aforementioned elements. Saint (Sint) is a ludicrous and wild romp of a movie, coming to us straight from the Netherlands.

The film takes the traditionally joyful and whimsical myth of Saint Nicholas and flips it right on its head. Directed under the watchful eye of Dick Maas (a true pioneer in Dutch genre cinema), Saint is a ridiculous and altogether fantastic B-movie masterpiece. The gore fest begins as December 5th quickly approaches, the traditional start of St. Nicholas themed festivities across the Netherlands. The film introduces us to Frank and his jolly gang of high school pals, as they are dressing up as jolly old Saint Nicholas and his infamous blackamoor helpers for a party at a nearby friend’s house. Unfortunately, Frank and his friends encounter a slight mishap on the way to said party, and lets just say they don’t necessarily all make it there in once piece…

Just who is to blame for this goretastic bloodbath? Well according to one local policeman, the myth of Saint Nicholas is founded on a gigantic misunderstanding, and the true nature of Niklas is a whole lot less jovial and a whole lot more evil. According to his research, Saint Nicholas was in fact just plain ol’ Niklas, your average run-of-the-mill rogue bishop turned sadistic killer. Him and his eclectic gang of robbers once terrorized villages during the medieval era; until being burned to death by a number of Dutch vigilantes. Now whenever December 5th and the full moon happen to align, Niklas and his gang of thieves return from the depths of hell to extract their revenge on the living. As you have probably already suspected, the full moon just so happens to reach its apex at the start of the movie, and total chaos ensues.

Is the plot utterly ridiculous bordering on laughable? Absolutely! And the film plays up this comedic nature the best it can. Even the manner in which the film was shot reflects a grainy B-movie feel to it. Past comparisons of Saint to former Late Night series hit Dead Snow are both warranted and appreciated, making a nod to past horror classics, but with its own unique twist. Stop by the Plaza tonight at 11:30pm if you dare to learn the truth behind the story of jolly old Saint Nick. It promises to be a ghoulish good time!

Posted by: Melissa Rygus

An Ordinary Family is no ordinary film

Religion and sexual orientation. Ask the average person for a list of  conversation topics they are ‘most likely to avoid’, and these two tend to top the list. Very rarely are these issues discussed in a manner that doesn’t involve a degree of conflicting interests, and most people will choose the path of avoidance over engaging in a heated argument any day. An Ordinary Family is most certainly a film brought to the screen by people who fall into the latter category; unafraid to rock the boat and tackle tough issues head-on.  The best part about this brave and sincere approach to filmmaking? This seemingly heavy dish of social commentary is served alongside a number of truly genuine and poignant moments that at some points had me stifling laughter-enduced hiccoughs, and holding back tears at others.

The film opens with Steve and his boyfriend William pulling up in front of a gorgeous lake house, about to embark on a week-long vacation with Steve’s family he has grown apart from in recent months. As Steve and William gather their things and head to the door, Steve has a small confession to make. Not only did he fail to tell his family that William was coming along with him on the trip, he hasn’t even told them that he is gay. Thus begins an emotional roller coaster ride as Steve comes out to his family and each individual strives to digest and grow accustomed to the news in their own way. Faith plays a fundamental role throughout this journey of acceptance, as Steve’s late father once worked as a Protestant minister in central Chicago, a profession that his brother Thomas has also entered to. Much of the movie focuses on the relationship between Steve and Thomas and their religious beliefs that serve to both drive a wedge between them and bring them closer together.

Two of the film’s producers Matt Patterson and Richard Jones were both in attendance earlier this week when I was fortunate enough to attend the film’s Canadian premiere. After being greeted with thunderous applause and cheering as the credits began to roll, the two took to the stage as Matt fielded questions about the film. Despite being a happily married straight man, Matt was adamant that issues dealing with the conflict between religion and sexual orientation affect us all. He said that frankly both him and the other producers had seen too many homosexual friends and peers grapple with similar issues to sit idly by any longer; and I for one am thankful they felt this way.

Regardless of whether you’re someone who is extremely passionate about social issues, or just someone seeking a little food for thought, An Ordinary Family is certain to have something for you. You can catch an encore screening of the film -with both Matt and Richard in attendance- at 9:30pm tomorrow night at the Plaza.

Posted by: Melissa Rygus

Have a Hot Saturday night

This being the final weekend of CIFF 2011 related fun, why not make the most of your Saturday night screening plans?  While nestling into your favourite seat at the cinema – I’m a ‘dead-centre’ fan myself – is certainly the most exciting part about an evening trip to the movies, your film experience needn’t end (or begin) there.  If you’ve never taken advantage of the great promotions at CIFF Hot Spots, tonight would be the perfect night to check it out!

Hot Spots are ‘a collection of local pubs, bars and restaurants that share the spirit, energy and enthusiasm of CIFF and honour film fest fans with exclusive offers’.  If you’re looking for a spot to begin your evening with dinner before catching a flick, or need a place to unwind at afterward with a drink and some cinematic conversation, these venues offer some great deals to film-goers.  Whether your Saturday screening plans be part of a date night, friendly get-together, or a solo trip to the cinema, one of the following venues will cater to your particular social needs.

The Belfry Gastro Lounge

Location: 630 8th Ave. SW

Deal: 10% off your entire bill

Double Zero

Location: 751 4th St. SW

Deal: 25% off all pizzas from 2PM to close by showing your CIFF ticket or pass

District

Location: 607 11th Ave. SW

Deal: $2 off a pint of Stella

Earl’s Banker’s Hall and V-lounge

Location: 315 8th Ave. SW

Deal: $1 off a pint or bottle of Stella Artois, $10 off any bottle of wine

JAROblue

Location: 1314 17th Ave. SW

Deal: 20% off your entire bill

Mango Shiva

Location: 218 8th Ave. SW

Deal: 15% off your entire bill

Ship & Anchor

Location: 534 17th Ave. SW

Deal: 20 oz Stella Pints for $6.75, Mini Sofia Sparkling Wine (187 ml can) for $8.00, ‘Moules Marinere’ – Mussels steamed in white wine with garlic, onsions &fresh parsley, finished with cream & served with Herb & Parmesan Flatbread – for $9.95

Wurst

Location: 2437 4th St. SW

Deal: 25% off all food items from 2PM to 7PM in the Beer Hall by showing your CIFF ticket or pass

Making an evening of it doesn’t have to break the bank, so these Hot Spots offer some great opportunities to make the most of the downtown film atmosphere during the final weekend of CIFF.  So get out of the house, take it all in, and who knows?  Maybe you’ll share a conversation with a new friend as eye-opening as the film you just attended.

Though they don’t all specify, I would suggest having your CIFF ticket or pass with you at all venues, just in case.  Plus, it’s a great conversation starter. ;)

–Erin Fox

CIFF Opening Gala

Almanya vs. Monster Brawl

Uh oh, the ends coming near…and I don’t know about you but I’m not sure what I did with my time before the Film Festival! Whatever it was, I don’t want to return…The films are too good and the popcorn too delicious! So this weekend GET IN as much viewing time as YOU CAN, I know I will.

We’ve got two Headliners hitting the big screen tonight, so here’s a little insight.

Almanya- Welcome to Germany is playing at Eau Claire tonight (Friday, Sept 30^th) at 7:00pm &  Monster Brawl is at the Plaza tonight (Friday, Sept 30^th) at 9:15!

Unless you’re unimaginably talented I doubt you’ll be able to hit both. So here it goes; A battle.

Feel-good Comedy with a dash of tear jerker and a pinch of crowd pleasing in the Programmers Pick of the day: ALMANYA

OR

The Black Carpet Gala’s horror induced monster film mixed with a good dose of professional wrestling in MONSTER BRAWL

So there’s a taste, now you decide!

Documentaries: BECOMING SANTA

 

While introducing BECOMING SANTA last night at The Plaza, CIFF lead programmer Brenda Lieberman talked about discovering the movie at Hot Docs in Toronto earlier this year, and immediately knowing that she HAD to have it for CIFF.  And watching the movie, it’s not hard to see why: BECOMING SANTA is a warm, happy, feel-good movie that also happens to be a fantastic documentary.

BECOMING SANTA follows Jack Sanderson after he decides to transform himself into one of “Santa’s Regional Representatives”, from dying his hair and beard, to getting a custom-made Santa suit, to attending Santa school in Denver.  It also provides an enlightening (and occasionally shocking) history of the Santa story across many cultures.  There are many highlights in the movie, but for me its finale was truly remarkable.  I don’t want to spoil it, but it’s about as perfect a representation of the magic of the Santa story as I’ve ever seen.

Special guest Donner entertains the crowd before BECOMING SANTA

One factor that saves the movie from becoming unbearably treacly is Sanderson himself.  He’s a witty guide for these adventures, and he’s got a sarcastic side to his sense of humor that makes his transformation more relatable.  Sanderson was in town to introduce the movie, and he provided a very entertaining Q and A session afterward.  Regarding the recent trend of slimmed-down Santas to help kids live healthier lifestyles, a woman in the audience commented that she preferred chubbier Santas.  Sanderson, with a come-hither look, quipped “I’m at the Ramada.”

Sanderson also said, “I wanted to make a documentary where people left the theater feeling good, not wondering how many weeks they had left on the planet.”  If a movie like this can melt the cold, black heart of a bitter, sarcastic misanthrope like me, it must be something special.

Don’t miss the encore screening of BECOMING SANTA on Sunday at Eau Claire, at noon.

Posted by Randy Perry.
twitter.com/randois

Finally, a Puppet Show for Adults: Sunflower Hour

Have you ever wondered who’s behind the loveable faces of your children’s – and yours? – favorite television personalities? Wonder no more! Sunflower Hour (2011) is a hilarious glimpse into the lives of four puppeteer hopefuls – the suspiciously Irish Shamus O’Reilly (Ben Cotton), closeted homophobe Leslie Handover (Patrick Gilmore), Satan’s Spawn, a.k.a., Olivia (Kacey Rohol) the gothic teenager with the vulnerable underbelly, and the passionate David Spencer (Amitai Marmorstein) – as they complete to win a place on Vancouver’s favorite children’s show, Sunflower Hour.

Run by adult entertainment producer turned children’s television show exec Donald Dirk (Peter New), Sunflower Hour is recruiting new talent and Donald’s ex-porn star wife Melissa (Johannah Newmarch) – who’s out to destroy him – has made sure that only the best of the worst made it through to the final round. This bawdy mockumentary follows Shamus, Leslie, Satan’s Spawn and David as they face down naysayers – often from within their own less-than-supportive families – on their journey to stardom.

With cutting humor, more sexual innuendo than you can shake a stick at – and then some – and heartfelt looks at how these four misfits became the people they are today, Sunflower Hour is sure to please. Don’t miss the encore screening of Sunflower Hour Saturday, October 1 at 9:30pm at The Plaza Theatre.

~Shannon McClennan
@shannoetry

Detective Dee Doesn’t Disappoint

It’s AD690 and, to mark her appointment as the first female Emperor of China, Empress Wu Zetian (Carina Lau) has commissioned a 66 yard statue of the Buddha outside the palace courtyard. When officials associated with the construction mysteriously combust, burning from the inside-out, the Empress is forced to release the great Detective Dee (Andy Lau) from prison to solve the case before her impending coronation.

Imprisoned for treason these past eight years by the Empress, Dee – driven by his curiosity more than love for the Empress – and his band of reluctant colleagues, Pei Donglai (Chao Deng) and Shangguan Jing’er (Li Bingbing) – handmaiden and loyal servant of the Empress – undertake the perilous task of determining who, or what, is behind the inexplicable deaths. Pursued by unknown mercenaries at every step, Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame (Di Renjie) (2010) (Cantonese with English subtitles) is filled with intrigue, action and sumptuous scenery.

Drawing from the likes of The Hound of the Baskervilles, Detective Dee is an action-mystery film that at first blush is steeped in magic but, like the Sherlock Holmes classic, is easily explained through science and logic by the cunning Detective. With enough twists to keep you guessing until the film reaches its end, Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame is sure to delight action/drama/mystery/martial arts film fans alike, and I can’t wait to get my hands on the DVD.

Don’t miss the encore screening of Detective Dee and the Mystery of the Phantom Flame Thursday, September 29 at 9:30pm at the Globe Cinema. For more information, check out this review from Press Play.

~Shannon McClennan
@shannoetry

‘The Divide’ – A Late Show Worth Staying Up For

Late shows can be a tough sell during the week.  Trying to balance work, sleep, and family responsibilities with a trip to the cinema after 9:00 pm can be challenging, but every once in a while a film comes along that justifies the aftermath of sleepiness and residual incomplete duties.  If you’ve been biding your time this year waiting for such a film to appear, your wait is over.  The action-packed science fiction thriller The Divide is being screened at The Plaza this evening for it’s one and only scheduled CIFF presentation, and trust me, you do NOT want to miss this one.  If you’re on the fence about late night weekday screenings, let this one help you decide in favour of them.  The Divide is so haunting, so tense, and so incredibly well done that it’s totally worth staying up past your bedtime.  After screening this film, I was left with a lump in my throat and existential musings floating around in my head for days.  What would I have done?  What would the ‘right’ thing have been?  How far would I go to survive?  And even more chilling – how far out is this ‘sci-fi’ premise?

The film begins in the midst of a nuclear attack on North America, and immediately the viewer is thrust into the panic and disorder.  Shot from an entirely interior perspective, an apartment building begins to crumble as tenants chaotically attempt to escape.  Before the walls come down, a select few make it to the super’s basement shelter and seal off the giant, steel door in fear of radiation poisoning.  Among the ‘lucky’ are two 20-something brothers, their unbalanced friend, a mother and daughter, an ex-cop, a young couple, and the brash, cigar-chewing superintendent. The first half is spent setting up character ethics, strengths, and weaknesses, and the second half knocks them down.  Once these folks accept that they are going to be trapped together for an indeterminate amount of time, they begin to cycle through coping methods.  Relationships that begin as attempts at camaraderie and unity eventually degrade into temper tantrums, humiliating power structures, and murder.  It becomes clear that the tragedy is no longer the nuclear fallout occurring outside of the basement, but the complete moral regression occurring on the inside of the dingy shelter.

While there are moments of intense graphic violence and explicit sexual content, The Divide does not exploit these taboo visual concepts in order to reach the audience.  Instead, the film uses every tool in it’s arsenal to pull the viewer through an intense, complicated, emotional experience.  As tensions rise, so to does motion within the frame.  During one scene, two men are arguing as another watches from a rickety stationary bike.  The yelling grows louder, the pedaling becomes faster, and the cuts become shorter until finally the disagreement climaxes and the audience can breath again.  The soundtrack becomes very useful in guiding the viewer through the emotional range experienced by the characters, particularly through the recurring piano score.  It’s no coincidence that each time a significant shift in emotion occurs, the soundtrack returns to this gentle motif.  The use of sound and music insists that this film is more than just a sci-fi thriller – it’s deeper and far more conceptual than 110 minutes of unmotivated violence.

Finally, I must address the chilling performance of Michael Eklund, who was last seen at CIFF in 2010’s Walk All Over Me.  This time around he plays a sinister, selfish young man who goes through an absolutely hair-raising transformation, both physically and mentally.  His performance had my skin crawling, and yet I couldn’t take my eyes off of him whenever he was in the frame.  Of all the despicable characters in the film, his was most interesting.  The viewer gets glimpses of his guilt and fear as it slowly drives him insane, and is left questioning his ultimate motives and disturbing complacency in the sickly dungeon.  That being said, the entire film is extremely well acted (and casted!) and will stay with you for days.

The Divide is playing Tonight, September 29th, at The Plaza at 11 PM.  Take a nap, grab a coffee, do whatever you need to do to stay up – you’ll be floored.  Tickets here.

–Erin Fox

Canadian Cinema: AMY GEORGE and SERVITUDE

This year’s Canadian Cinema series features some high-profile titles, like HARD CORE LOGO 2, CLOUDBURST, and Canada’s official foreign language Oscar selection MONSIEUR LAZHAR.  But there are a couple of lower profile movies screening in the fest’s final few days that are absolute gems.

AMY GEORGE is a poignant coming of age story from first-time filmmakers Yonah Lewis and Calvin Thomas.  With their assured writing and confident direction, they are Canadian filmmakers to watch.  Jesse is a 13-year-old who wants to be an artist.  A book advises him: “You can never be a real artist until you have made love to a woman.”  We may not be able to relate to the specifics of Jesse’s journey; however, we were all adolescents once, so we can relate to the generalities: the developing uncertain sexual feelings, the longing for freedom.  Gabriel del Castillo Murray is a real find as Jesse (it’s his debut role!).  Murray, like the movie itself, is a real charmer.
 
SERVITUDE was, for me, a really nice surprise.  It’s a winning, crowd-pleasing comedy about the wait staff at a steakhouse, who have decided they’ve had enough of dealing with ungrateful, mean, selfish customers.  If you’ve ever worked in the service industry (heck, if you’ve ever found yourself biting your tongue instead of saying what you really feel), you will relate to SERVITUDE.

SERVITUDE features Dave Foley, Enrico Colantoni, and Margot Kidder in fun supporting roles — wait til you get a look at Margot Kidder!  But it’s the main cast of lesser known actors that carry the movie.  The movie opens with a terrific tracking shot through the restaurant, efficiently introducing us to the setting and the main characters.  I can’t really identify one of the actors as a scene-stealer; they all have moments that left me doubled over with laughter.

AMY GEORGE screens Thursday at 9 pm at The Plaza, and Saturday at 11:45 am at Eau Claire.

SERVITUDE screens at The Plaza on Friday at 7 pm.

Posted by Randy Perry.
twitter.com/randois