BFF FILM & FESTIVAL BLOG
Rising Star Rachel Sennott Wins 2023 Stonestreet Studios Granite Award!
Emma Seligman, Rachel Sennott, Alyssa Rallo Bennett
Rachel Sennott
At the Bushwick Film Festival, we're all about celebrating the success of talented filmmakers, and Rachel Sennott is a perfect example of this. Her story is one that many aspiring artists dream of. We first noticed Rachel with her short film "Shiva Baby," which was originally set to be part of our festival in 2021. However, something amazing happened – the film got a deal to be turned into a feature and we were thrilled! This is exactly what we hope for our filmmakers: opportunities that launch their careers to new levels.
Since then, Rachel's journey in the film industry has been nothing short of inspiring. She's gone on to make waves with her roles in movies like "Bottoms," "The Idol," and "Bodies, Bodies, Bodies." Her ability to bring characters to life with both depth and humor is remarkable.
Rachel's talents were recently recognized with the prestigious . Stonestreet Studios, founded by the filmmaking duo of Alyssa Rallo Bennett and Gary O. Bennett, is the exclusive independent film studio partner of the NYU Tisch Drama program. Its Granite Award is bestowed upon actors and multi-hyphenates who have developed meaningful work, reflective of Stonestreet’s socially conscious and diverse films, including Rain Without Thunder, The Pack, ReRUN, and, soon to be released, The Arrival. Winning the Granite Award means Rachel is seen as someone who's making a real impact in the industry. She's now in the company of other incredible actors who have won this award before, like Rachel Brosnahan and Miles Teller.
Rachel's start at Stonestreet Studios, where she took part in the Screen Acting & Production Residency Program, laid the foundation for her success. This experience gave her the tools she needed to grow as an actress and prepare for the amazing opportunities that lay ahead.
Today, Rachel is represented by William Morris Endeavor Entertainment and Odenkirk Provissiero Entertainment. Her performance in "Bottoms," which premiered at SXSW, got a lot of attention and praise. It's clear that Rachel is on an upward path in her career. As we celebrate Rachel's achievements, especially her Granite Award, we're excited to see what she does next. Her dedication to her craft and her ability to connect with audiences are truly special. We're proud to have been able to witness her journey and can't wait to see her continue to shine in the film industry.
Rachel's story is a great example of what can happen when talent, hard work, and a supportive community come together. She's an inspiration to all the aspiring filmmakers and actors out there, showing that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible in the industry!
Zac Branciforte, Michael Kirshner, Mike Munari, Monique Ford, Emma Seligman, Rachel Sennott, Alyssa Rallo Bennett, Elizabeth Bunnell, Lauren Montes, Toon de Melker, Clara Spannaus, Brayden Wlech, Luis Amaducci Quero, Amelia Annen, Kirby Ann Seely (Stonestreet staff and faculty)
A snapshot of the 16th Annual Bushwick Film Festival
We are thrilled to share the highlights of our 16th edition, which brought together film enthusiasts from diverse backgrounds. From October 25th to October 29th, we had the privilege of showcasing over 125 films, celebrating both local talents and global perspectives. Our movie screenings at Williamsburg Cinemas gave everyone an amazing cinematic experience that they truly enjoyed.
Our festivities commenced with the Opening Night Red Carpet Reception at Brooklyn Borough Hall on October 25th presented by Spectrum. We were honored to have Johnnie Walker Blended Scotch Whisky as our sponsor for the third consecutive year, treating our guests to delightful specialty cocktails. During the Opening Night Ceremony, Ovation TV made a meaningful contribution by presenting a $10,000 check to the Bushwick Film Festival through the Stand For The Arts Awards—a wonderful partnership with Spectrum. This initiative is all about recognizing and supporting local arts, culture, and education.
The Movie Industry Conference, held at Be Electric Studios, featured thought-provoking panel discussions, while the Sweet 16 Party at Lot 45 added a vibrant touch of celebration to the mix.
The grand finale was our award ceremony on October 29th, where we honored over 10 exceptional films and filmmakers. These remarkable works wove powerful narratives, celebrated artistic independence, and introduced us to unforgettable characters navigating the seas of change, self-discovery, and new beginnings. Here's a glimpse of our award-winning films:
FEATURE NARRATIVE CATEGORY
Best Feature Narrative: "Darla in Space," directed by Susie Moon and Eric Laplante.
Special Jury Prize: "Bittersweet," directed by Haroldo Borges.
Honorable Mention: "Playing Sam," directed by Ramon Felipe Pesante.
SHORT NARRATIVE CATEGORY
Best Short Narrative: "The Old Young Crow," directed by Liam LoPinto.
Special Jury Prize: "The Vacation," directed by Jarreau Carrillo.
Honorable Mention: "Bodies Will Tumble and Roll," directed by Eli Vazquez.
FEATURE DOCUMENTARY CATEGORY
Best Feature Doc: "Storming Caesar's Palace," directed by Hazel Gurland-Pooler.
Special Jury Prize: "Estamos Unidos," directed by Alvaro Manuel Morales.
Honorable Mention: "Esu and The Universe," directed by Thiago Zanato.
SHORT SERIES CATEGORY
Best Series: "Story of Godia," directed by Mouayed Zabtia.
Special Jury Prize: "Awesome," directed by Paul Munger.
Honorable Mention: "Monologue," directed by Nick Clifford and Stef Smith.
Our esteemed panel of jurors included prominent figures from the film industry, including Theo Rigby, Danelle Eliav, Melody C Roscher, Petra Ahmann, Amenya Makuku, Courtney Andrialis-Vincent, Niki Williams, and our very own Kweighbaye Kotee, the founder of BFF.
The Bushwick Film Festival 2023 was a celebration of diversity, creativity, and the profound impact of storytelling through independent cinema. As we continue to grow and evolve, we remain dedicated to supporting emerging voices in the film industry and contributing to Brooklyn's vibrant cultural scene.
Our heartfelt thanks go out to our sponsors, partners, grant benefactors, and patrons, including Spectrum, Johnnie Walker, Ovation TV, Brooklyn Borough Hall, Pushing Forward Realty, Circa Brewing Co., Broadway Stages, Williamsburg Cinemas, Lot 45, World Owned, Be Electric Studios, Master Card, NAACP, Self-Portrait Project, Hello Alice, and IfundWomen donors.
Mimi Cave Gives Audiences a Fresh Look into Modern Dating
Written by Katerina Plescia
Sebastian Stan as Steve (left) and Daisy Edger-Jones as Noa (right) in Fresh Photo Credit: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
Online dating has catapulted the millennial and Gen Z cohort from avoiding the awkward and often cringe-worthy “meet-cutes” that were made popular by Meg Ryan and Amanda Bynes, to safely taking refuge behind a screen and getting to know a partner through instant messaging and photographs found after hours of Instagram searching. The majority of users are well aware of the risks when signing their souls away to the cult of online dating apps. These include, but are not limited to: catfishing, stalking, scammers, cheating partners, weirdos, and much more. Struggling to find honesty and adoration, all online daters strive for the romance they’ve seen on the silver screen.
Mimi Cave’s directorial debut reveals an unusual and chilling approach to the unpredictable world of modern dating. As a consequence of living in a society where dating happens through emojis and Snapchats, prospective singles have lowered their standards when faced with dating in the real world. Cave explores the issue of lowering what one expects from a suitor’s pursuits and dives headfirst into a mysterious relationship in her thrilling film, Fresh. Beneath the horror atmosphere and shocking plot twists, Cave divulges how fast individuals are willing to trust when cinematic love is on the line.
Cave’s haunting narrative follows a young woman, Noa (Daisy Edgar-Jones), who has experienced her fair share of failure in the online dating community. In the first act, Noa exhibits an inability to connect with partners due to her negative outlook on the uncertainty of long-term commitment and men’s general dating etiquette. Upon meeting an attractive stranger at the supermarket, Noa and the man, Steve (Sebastian Stan), have a flirtatious exchange and go their separate ways after trading phone numbers.
Following a handful of successful dates, Noa’s prior pessimistic views are diminished due to Steve’s chivalrous and charming nature. Though the couple hasn’t been dating each other for long, Noa accepts Steve’s invitation to spend a weekend away in a remote “surprise” location. Abandoning the safety of the city and cell phone service, Noa’s whereabouts remain a mystery until her best friend, Mollie (Jonica T. Gibbs), senses something may be wrong. The second act of Cave’s masterpiece drastically changes the film’s genre from romantic comedy to a horrifying thriller.
Daisy Edgar-Jones as Noa (left) and Jonica T. Gibbs as Mollie (right) Photo Credit: Courtesy of Searchlight Pictures
While the genre shift in the midst of the film occurs and makes viewers anxious to watch Steve’s carnivorous habits, Cave utilized this tone change to her advantage in the narrative. As opposed to beginning the film with an ominous atmosphere, a familiar feeling for horror fans as audiences look onto an innocent family walking into a house of death, Cave chooses a unique route. Starting Fresh off as a romantic comedy, a young woman searching for love in a materialistic and online world, draws viewers into a story they can connect with. When discovering the truth about Steve, this discovery emulates how all victims feel when swindled by a catfish or liar. The shocking turn of events from romance to horror reveals the harsh nature of the modern world of dating.
Aside from the jaw-dropping plot and horrifying turn in events, Cave incorporated a subtle motif of feminism and the strength of platonic love throughout Fresh. From the first scene, Mollie openly speaks her mind and vocalizes her care for Noa’s well-being and happiness. As Steve swindells Noa and whisks her away to their “surprise” getaway, Mollie’s persistence and passion for Noa completely derails his plans. Cave breaks away from the traditional rom-com, where the girl and guy live happily ever after, and instead pits girl against guy with her ride or die. This theme proves to female audiences that not every partner will be the one and you will make regrettable mistakes, however, happiness and fulfillment come in a variety of forms. The love that Mollie and Noa have for each other, and their strength as young women, drives them to fight for their independence and survival.
The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in late January of 2022 before being released on the streaming platform, Hulu, on March 4th. The overall consensus surrounding the picture was positive, receiving 81% Rotten Tomatoes.
Director: Mimi Cave
Running Time: 1 hour 57 minutes
Trailer Link for Fresh
Katerina is a senior at Pace University in Pleasantville, NY. After graduation, she aspires to work as an entertainment journalist, centering her writing around music, film, and the arts. She grew up in Bethel, NY and is a dog mom to a Pitbull rescue, Maddie. Find more of her work on her website or Instagram.
The Self and the Stranger: A Review of Language Lessons
Written by Kennedy McCutchen
Adam Duplass in Language Lessons Photo Credit: IMDB
It was only fitting that I took a friend I met on Bumble BFF to see a movie portraying the formation of an unconventional, technologically-dependent relationship. As we rode the subway into Brooklyn, we filled our would-be silences with lively and meaningful discussion about our favorite films, our romantic relationships, and our shared appreciation for learning. There were, as always, moments of vulnerability: some in an effort to keep the conversation alive, others to reveal ever-becoming parts of ourselves - our fears, ambitions, and turmoils - to demonstrate the authentic trust we were attempting to build with each other. We never really know the inner life of the stranger, however long we have known and loved said person, but we can make the valiant and potentially transcendental effort to try. And, not once, did we discuss our phones, friendship-meeting apps, or any other technological mechanism of communication. Nor do Cariño (Natalie Morales) and Adam (Mark Duplass) in Language Lessons.
Zoom feels quite camouflaged throughout the movie, though it is the only way we, as viewers, are able to see Morales and Duplass on screen together. It is never a point of discussion; it is simply a tool (an increasingly crucial one at that) to facilitate human exchange. The more contingent aspect of the film, and perhaps in our lives altogether, is the liminal relational space between two separate people, the self and the stranger, and the subsequent evolution of knowing, understanding, and loving.
Natalie Morales and Adam Duplass in Language Lessons Photo Credit: IMDB
Cariño and Adam’s platonic meet cute is predicated on Adam’s husband, Will, surprising Adam with one-hundred Spanish lessons taught by Cariño, who is based in Costa Rica. Their initial meeting, interrupted infrequently by internet glitches (that are surprisingly artful on film), is one of immediate kinship. Their bilingual banter exudes warmth and familiarity; while Cariño is certainly more reserved than her boisterous and chatty student, they meet one another with kind listening ears. The interplay of multiple languages, too, both emphasizes and marries their distinct personalities into a relationship that I and my friend found immediately compelling.
Like most relationships, however, tragedies and misunderstandings impede upon the pair’s closeness. Cariño consoles Adam in a time of loss. Cariño and Adam get closer, exchanging witty, humorous videos that reveal more of themselves and their personalities. Adam begins to assume Cariño is hiding a secret that keeps her in danger. Cariño lashes back at Adam, claiming he knows nothing about her. Adam beseeches Cariño to let him into her life. The art of conversation, the dance of getting to know one another continues.
I don’t state these plot points trivially. I state them so bluntly to emphasize how true-to-life Morales and Duplass kept their script, how effortlessly Morales’ direction captured a kind of immediacy and relatability which permitted us to see ourselves in these characters and honestly parallel the exchanges I have with the people I interact with on a daily basis. Whether it be the friendly Trader Joe’s grocer asking me if I found all that I needed on an isolated Thursday evening, or the mother I call when I’m feeling lost and overwhelmed, or the partner I both turn to and retreat from when I feel misunderstood and alone, all of my interactions are inevitable contestations that require choice in presentation, authenticity, and character, none of which are easy to determine. I can viscerally remember the last time I claimed to someone that they didn’t really know me, didn’t really understand what I was going through, not necessarily because they psychologically and pragmatically could not, but because I wanted to evade vulnerability and resist the other’s (or, in Lacanian and Camuian fashion, “The Other’s” or “The Stranger’s”) gaze that reflected what I was most avoidant of in myself.
Official poster for Language Lessons
Whether or not we confront alterity in ourselves and with each other is up to us. How we move forward and proceed with our own journeys in self-realization also rests in personal decision-making. Both choices, however, can be positively informed and influenced by art, especially in the cinema when the screen so often becomes a mirror. Films like Language Lessons succeed tremendously because they so beautifully explicate how hell really is other people, though not a demonic, stultifying hell. Hell, instead, is vital confrontation, intimacy, and, at its best and most terrifying, love.
Director: Natalie Morales
Running Time: 87 minutes
Currently playing in select theaters.
Trailer
11 “Oscar Bait” Films for the 2020 Academy Awards
Written by Samuel Kahler
While the 92nd Academy Awards ceremony is still six months away, the blogosphere is already abuzz with anticipatory predictions about Hollywood’s biggest night.
The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced several rule changes back in April that will take effect for the 2020 Oscars (for example, the “Foreign Language Film” category will now be called “International Feature Film”). What remains uncertain is how the Academy will decide to approach its persistent controversies, such as the increasingly-contentious selection of the ceremony's host and the diversity of category nominees. Plus, with the year 2020 being an election year, the winners’ speeches might run just a tad long.
The Academy isn't the only one wringing its proverbial hands about its upcoming awards ceremony. Studios are hungry for nominations and wins and will try their best to campaign aggressively in pursuit of those 8.5-pound bronze Oscar statuettes. Some believe that certain films are greenlit specifically to please the award committees. While much has been written and said about films that are perceived as “Oscar bait,” it seems impossible to create straightforward criteria for what qualifies and what doesn’t. Is it a gauzy biopic starring an A-lister? A sand-and-sword epic? A rags to riches story? Yes and no.
It’s an exhausting exercise to try and make sense of the differing opinions. Perhaps as many varieties of Oscar bait films exist as there are film genres. Still, in general, it seems that either the film contains some element of a certain movie cliché, or else the campaigning [strategy?] displays an obvious thirst for the award.
Through a certain lens—a cynical one, admittedly—couldn’t every major Hollywood film be interpreted as having a certain Oscar bait quality? With that in mind, we’ve drawn up eleven film genres that scream Oscar bait—all in the name of good fun—each paired with a genre-specific film that might qualify for the 92nd Academy Awards.
(Disclaimer: The author of this article has not seen any of these films yet.)
The adaptation of a contemporary bestselling novel
“The Goldfinch,” based on the 2014 Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Donna Tartt.The biopic about a Classic Hollywood star
“Judy” is a biographical film about the life of Judy Garland.The ensemble drama with several “Best Actor” candidates
“The Kitchen” co-stars Tiffany Haddish, Melissa McCarthy, and Elisabeth Moss.The new Martin Scorsese joint
“The Irishman” is Scorcese’s ninth feature collaboration with actor Robert De Niro.The musical biopic about a tortured pop star lost in the turmoil of fame and genius “Rocketman” is a musical film about the artistic awakening of Elton John and his subsequent success and struggles as a world-famous musician.
The “how has this not been made yet?” historical film
“Harriet” is based on the life of abolitionist Harriet Tubman.The vehicle for classically-trained English actors to show their stuff
“The Good Liar” stars Ian McKellen and Helen Mirren.The serious political drama
“The Report” follows a Senate investigation into CIA conduct in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.The intimate family drama
“The Farewell” is being praised for its ability to portray dynamic family relations.The sci-fi space thriller
“Ad Astra” stars Brad Pitt as a man who travels into space in search of his missing father.The one with a comedic actor in a serious role
“Newsflash” stars comic actor Seth Rogen as news anchor Walter Cronkite.
Oscar bait or not, we can’t wait to see all these films. Tell us, what other Oscar bait sub-genres did we miss?
Sad Love Stories That Leave You Wanting More
Written by Diomarys Mendez
The theme of unrequited or unfulfilled love is one that has been uniquely retold time and time again. Stories of longing, lingering passion, and hope for an intangible love can evoke empathy, nostalgia, and melancholy.
Today, I will be recommending three foreign films with very different meditations on love, but that will all leave you wanting more.
In The Mood for Love (pictured above)
In the Mood for Love was directed by Wong Kar Wai in 2001. It is set in 1960s Hong Kong and follows two characters, Su Li-zhen (Maggie Cheung) and Chow Mo-wan (Tony Leung), who develop a tragic love story through their unfulfilled marriages.
The story is a powerful reflection on oppressed love and is both a technical achievement and a poetic musing on human longing. This atmospheric film effectively portrays quiet and intense desire by playing with time through repetition/slow-motion, framing, body language, and dialogue. Thus, the audience feels the gradual heightening of emotions boiling under the surface of these two characters’ interactions, but that ultimately leaves no trace.
Shoplifters
2018 Palme d'Or-winning film Shoplifters is a unique tale that explores the meaning of family. It raises the idea that one does not have to be limited to bloodlines, but can instead choose what family to belong to. Along with the overarching theme of what constitutes a family, the film also poses many important questions about poverty, government and societal neglect, and social norms.
The film begins with an impoverished family that essentially kidnaps a young girl and introduces her to their way of surviving. Although at times questionable, the actions taken by each member of the Shibata household stem from love.
This story is tender and complex, and director Hirokazu Kore-eda skillfully peels away the layers, revealing secrets about the family in a slow yet fluid pace. This film felt very authentic because it allowed the audience to observe the dynamic of this family in an environment free of judgment. In addition, the performances in Shoplifters were exquisite, and the cinematic language, although complicated, visually translated the narrative to the screen beautifully and seamlessly.
Kore-eda masterfully tells a story about compassion and love, challenging audiences to rethink the definition of family. Shoplifters is an honest yet tragic account about the lives of these complex characters, who briefly come together to embark on a journey where they discover the meaning of familial love.
Us and Them
“Happiness is not a story. Misfortune is,” Qing Jian muses in Us and Them. This cynical statement from the film encapsulates the tone and overall driving force of this story.
Rene Liu’s directorial debut tells the story of two characters, Qing Jian (Boran Jing) and Xiao Xiao (Dongyu Zhou), and their decade-long relationship, along with all the natural unfolding and undoing that happens during that time. Us and Them has many themes, but it mainly examines the contrast between the effects of personal change on an individual versus their relationships. The film shows how, at times, the steps necessary to grow can ironically result from mistakes made and connections lost.
The underlying tragedy of this story lies in the characters’ inability to communicate and express their love for one another, which eventually leads to them parting ways. Through flashbacks and moments of silence, we see how these two characters reflect on and cope with love lost, and the unbearable truth of not being able to turn back time to change the outcome. This nostalgic film reminisces on the sweet and sour seasons of love and essentially asks, If you had the chance to see a past lover one more time, what would you do and say?
Although very different, each of these three films interprets the many flavors that love has to offer and leaves audiences weeping and profoundly moved.
Are you ready to bring out the tissues and embark on these journeys?
Diomarys Mendez is a film lover and has dedicated her life to creating and providing more diverse narratives in the film and music scene. Diomarys has a background in Business, Music, and Theater and lives in New York City.
Celebrating Mother Figures in Film & TV
Written by Amanda Lederle
Our mothers, grandmothers, and mother figures can be our guides, our best friends, or our first frenemies. Whichever relationship you may have, you can honor the mother figures in your life by watching the mother figures in these films and TV shows. Click the images for trailers.
Fresh Off The Boat
This comedic family story depicts the life of a Taiwanese-American family in the 90s. It was inspired by the life of now-famous chef Eddie Huang. It has been renewed for a sixth season and is the first Asian-American family show on a primetime network since 1994. Yay, Asian representation on the small screen!
Though the main voice comes from the narrator and eldest son, Eddie, the star of the Huang family is arguably Jessica, the mom. Played by Constance Wu, Jessica represents the strong female foundation that holds this family together. Her sassy, quick snaps are hidden behind a beautiful smile—you definitely don’t want to mess with her. She is truly a bad-mutha.
But like most strong Asian females who can run a household, there is always one other strong Asian female who has the final word: Grandma. Mother-in-laws are always protective of their sons and are not afraid to show it. In later seasons, they eventually restore their relationship, because what else can years of criticism really represent in uncommunicative Asian relationships but respect?
One Day At A Time
You may recognize the title, as the current version of the show is a revival. This series was originally created by sitcom legend Norman Lear, known for popular 70s shows like All in the Family and Sanford and Sons.
Matriarch Penelope “Lope” Alvarez is a veteran, nurse, and single mom of two. Her mother, Lydia, played by the vibrant Rita Moreno (famous for her performance as Anita in the 1961 movie West Side Story) lives with the Alvarez family in a little apartment in LA. Like most good family sitcoms, their landlord frequents their apartment and behaves like an adopted uncle. Everyone wants to be a part of this loving family.
Lope works hard to ensure her Cuban-American family is safe, proud of their heritage, and provided for. She shows resilience and is not afraid to speak up when she sees injustice. She serves as a strong female figure for her daughter, Elena.
In the episode titled “Anxiety,” Lope experiences panic attacks: the scene turns from color to black and white, and she suffers from heavy breathing and sweating. Later on, Elena also experiences anxiety. Lope reveals to her daughter that she has it too and that she goes to therapy to manage her post-traumatic stress.
The Alvarez family does not hesitate to discuss matters that pertain to mental health and addictions, immigration (under the current presidency), racism, and LGBTQ+ issues. Whether it is a protest, discussion about anxiety or respecting pronouns, Lope stands by Elena.
Unfortunately, this three season series was canceled, leaving fans in an uproar.
The Guilt Trip (Fletcher, 2012)
I am a sucker for Seth Rogen films. It’s not only because he is Canadian and has an adorable chuckle—his humor and choice of stories are refreshing and relatable. In this film, mom Barbra Streisand (gasp!) follows her son, played by Rogen, on a trip to showcase his invented product on a home shopping channel. This movie is a great example of a quintessential relationship between a Jewish mom and her son, full of overbearing and unwavering love, support, and courage.
Black-ish
This comedy surrounds an upper-middle-class African-American family and is a show that does not shy away from social, political, and cultural contemporary issues in America, including what it means to be black.
This household is run by doctor and mom of five, Rainbow “Bow” Johnson, played by Tracee Ellis Ross. In the episode titled “Mother Nature,” Bow experiences postpartum depression. Grandmother Ruby, played by the incomparable Jenifer Lewis, is another strong female figure in the Johnson household. She steps in to reconcile her relationship with Bow, in order to best support her daughter-in-law. The Johnson children also rally together to support Bow, and she explains the normalcy and stigmas of mental health in life.
Black-ish has an Emmy, is Golden Globe-nominated, and has two spinoffs, Grown-ish, and its soon-to-be-released prequel, Mixed-ish. Black-ish is in its fifth season.
Mom
Reconciling an old mother-daughter relationship is the main storyline in this sixth season primetime sitcom. This comedy is about Christy, a young mom (played by the hilarious Anna Faris), who is recovering from alcohol addiction and goes to AA alongside her mom (the amazing Allison Janney).
This show is a great example of mothers in recovery struggling to mend broken relationships while also figuring out their own lives. Another hit from sitcom king Chuck Lorre, this show brings viewers inside the world of AA meetings, highlighting the fellowship of the sponsor/sponsee relationships and life in the program. Representing addiction on a primetime comedy series is a impressive step forward in discussing mental health in the media.
Workin’ Moms
In this Emmy-nominated Canadian comedy series, writer, creator, and star of the show, Catherine Reitman (recognize that last name?) showcases the strength of new moms. She is the daughter of Ivan Reitman, director of classic films like Ghostbusters (1984) and Kindergarten Cop (1990).
In the cold opening, we get a glimpse of the show’s bold and innovative style with the sight of female nipples! Finally! Why male nipples are readily shown on television while women hide theirs is unknown to me.
This story follows the unlikely friendship between four women as they each struggle within their early stages of motherhood: juggling work, family, and their mental health. This refreshing Canadian mom show is just what we’ve needed to see.
Jane the Virgin
Our protagonist, Jane, is your average Venezuelan-Mexican girl who lives with her young mother and abuela. She has a Type A personality, a loving boyfriend, and she’s a virgin. Life is hopeful and bright until—she finds out she is pregnant!? How does this happen? you may ask. By way of accidental artificial insemination: she was impregnated by her boss Rafael's sperm. What will she tell her detective boyfriend, Michael? What does her future hold? And is she still a virgin?
Jane later does become a mom and is guided by her mother, Xiomara, a sexually-charged, laid-back dancer who had Jane at a very young age. Of course, this means that Jane’s abuela, Alba, has experience with young single moms. Alba becomes the executive voice for the younger generation. Her daughter and granddaughter go to her for advice about love, work, and following one’s heart.
This quick-humored, narrated telenovela combines drama, comedy, and romance. When I first watched the show, I honestly didn’t think I would like it (it can be a bit cheesy), but eventually fell in love with its humor and the honesty of the characters.
Gina Rodriguez is gorgeous and also an amazing actress; she won a Golden Globe for her role as Jane. See her in her newest Netflix’s film, Someone Great (Robinson, 2019). You can see my take on the film in my post, 13 Films & TV Shows To Watch.
Snatched (Levine, 2017)
This movie was so fun to watch, but you probably don’t want to watch it if you are going on a trip with your mom in the near future.
This film is like all mother-daughter renewal storylines, except that what binds these two them together is their kidnapping. It is a hilarious and fresh new view on how women support each other. The film has a full cast of comedy stars: Amy Schumer, Goldie Hawn, Randall Park, Ike Barinholtz, Christopher Meloni, Joan Cusack, and Wanda Sykes.
Crazy Rich Asians (Chu, 2018)
Finally, a film I can watch with my whole family and see Asians reflected on the screen. They are just like us—except for the gargantuan amount of money.
I didn’t expect to react this way, but when Constance Wu first appears onscreen, I had to hold back tears. As the first studio movie in 25 years to have a full Asian cast, I don’t have to tell you how vital this film was as a box office smash in 2018. No matter what your cultural background, anyone can relate to this film full of family traditions, laughs, and a whole lot of love.
Santa Clarita Diet
Have you ever had food poisoning? Well, I am sure you haven’t had it as bad as the characters in this series. Their normal suburban family life takes a turn when Sheila, played by Drew Barrymore, starts throwing up a vile amount. Eventually, they realize she is undead.
This family show is weird yet has a lot of heart. This horror comedy also stars Timothy Olyphant and is in its third season on Netflix.
Amanda is a film enthusiast that has dedicated their life to mental health awareness, CreateBeing.com. Amanda has a background in Film Studies and lives with their partner and their chinchilla, Chewbacca in Toronto, Canada.
School's Out
Written by Amanda Lederle
School’s out and so are our secrets. We can’t hold back who we are, who we want to be, or who we love. It’s time to be honest and to express ourselves. Structured education can wait another two months, but life lessons are always available to learn.
Drag Kids
We’ve seen drag films before, but we’ve never seen them from the perspective of preteens. This progressive documentary film shines the spotlight on four adolescents: Stephan, Jason, Bracken, and Nemis. Each of them is traveling on an individual journey to self-expression when their paths eventually intersect, and they all meet for the first time at Montreal’s Pride Festival.
These drag minis go about their daily lives in solitude, with no other kids at school or in their communities to connect with, because no one else around is quite like them. But when they arrive at the Montreal Pride Festival, they find themselves surrounded by like-minded people outside of their hometowns. This pride event brings them together for a group performance, ultimately giving them the hope of finding others who understand their personal experiences.
This film shows how lonely and isolating it can be for someone who is seen as an outsider. But when we courageously continue to be ourselves and get out of our schoolyards, it is possible to find others who we can relate to.
Drag Kids was written and directed by Megan Wennberg and had its world premiere at this year’s Hot Docs Canadian International Documentary Film Festival.
Derry Girls
The juxtaposition between a restrained community and the ultra-attitude from four teenage girls exemplifies this comedy, set in the 90s in Northern Ireland. Four teenage girls – Erin, Orla, Claire, and Michelle – all go to a Catholic girls' high school. Then there’s Michelle’s male heterosexual cousin, James, who also attends the same school. You can imagine how difficult it is for James to find a private bathroom on his first day.
These foul-mouthed, Catholic, kilt-wearing teens are on the hunt to find their independence and identity together, as Claire says, “…trying to be an individual on your own is just too embarrassing.” Even living in a town surrounded by armored police checkpoints does not phase these outspoken teenage girls.
This very comedic British show is created and written by Lisa McGee. Derry Girls won awards for Best Comedy and Best Writer in a Comedy or Soap at the Irish Film & Television Awards. To date, it is noted as the most-watched series in Northern Ireland and was picked up by Netflix due to its popularity.
To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before
Everything is peachy when your secret letters to your crushes are kept in a box, hidden away in your closet where no one can find them – until they get sent out. Half-Korean/half-Caucasian teen Lara Jean Covey is a high school junior who has to courageously face her crushes (the titular boys she has loved before) and allow herself to release fears and insecurities that hold her back from her self-expression. It’s a lesson we can all learn at any age.
This film also shows us how women and family can come together to support one another. And for me, as always, it is refreshing to see an Asian female protagonist represented on screen.
This film was directed by Susan Johnson, based on the original novel written by Jenny Han. It stars Vietnamese-born actress Lana Condor, made famous as Jubilee in X-Men: Apocalypse (Singer, 2016). This Netflix film was the hot teen romance film of 2018.
The Get Down
Graffiti-filled red brick walls line the streets while siren calls fill the air. There is anxious energy flowing through a heart full of dreams and legs ready to run away at any moment. The train from the Bronx leads to Manhattan, sliding through each episode; an escape to stardom is right at the fingertips.
This story is set in the late 70s, at a time when the popularity of disco is transferring to hip-hop. The tone of the series combines that of an immigrant tale such as in West Side Story (Robbins and Wise, 1961) with the hip-hop grind akin to Straight Outta Compton (Gray, 2015).
Narrated by Nas, this two-part series on Netflix is visually stunning and full of poetry. Creator Baz Lurhuman’s auteur style is evident throughout. Justice Smith plays Ezekiel, aka “Books,” who stuns the small screen with his talent. You may recognize him from Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom (Bayona, 2018) and most recently in Pokémon Detective Pikachu (Letterman, 2019).
The struggle on the street is not without internal angst also, as seen in Jaden Smith’s character, Dizzie, who falls in love with another male street artist. Summer is out for these students, but the school of life is always in session.
Dear White People
Many teenagers might think that life after high school means freedom from any identity or social issues, but that is sadly not the case. In this thought-provoking series, African-American female protagonist Samantha White hosts her own radio show, where she focuses on the racial tensions on her college campus. She addresses her white audience, highlighting the difficulties of the African-American experience for them.
The show follows a group of African-American students who, in addition to their studies, have to deal with the trials of white vs. black tensions, representation on campus, defining one’s “blackness” by the shade of their skin, and issues with campus police and racial profiling.
This Netflix show was first released as a feature film in 2014 by the same director, Justin Simien. Some of the original cast from the film are also featured in the series version. And the show has now been confirmed for a third season!
Any film or show about a female-POC-protagonist film buff has my attention. If that is the same for you, stay tuned for my next blog, when I introduce you to Nola Darling.
Want to know which other films and TV shows I’ve been watching?
Amanda is a film enthusiast that has dedicated their life to mental health awareness, CreateBeing.com. Amanda has a background in Film Studies and lives with their partner and their chinchilla, Chewbacca in Toronto, Canada. They are also a visual artist, you can find more on Instagram @amandalederle and @createbeing.
13 Films & TV Shows To Watch
Written by Amanda Lederle & Kweighbaye Kotee
Musical islands, homecomings, teenage therapy, cocaine-filled Wall Street's, and mom gangs are just a few of the new films and shows we have on our list. Click on the images to view the trailers.
GOOD GIRLS
This unique and exciting series showcases how moms can be badasses too!
When three moms feel stuck in their individual situations (a cheating husband, a sick child, and struggling to provide), they decide to turn to suburban crime together: robbing a grocery store. This show is as thrilling as it is full of hope. The quicksand of consequences tied with the money they’ve stolen leaves this band of robbers with unplanned decisions to make. What else is a mom to do? This show features pop culture greats Retta (Parks and Recreation, 2009–2015), Christina Hendricks (Mad Men, 2007–2015), and Mae Whitman (The Duff, 2015), and the second season is currently on Netflix.
THE TWILIGHT ZONE
This chilling series comes back to TV as a classic reboot. Appropriately, it is hosted by comedian/horror genre extraordinaire Jordan Peele.
The premiere episode of this dark series stars contemporary actors like Kumail Nanjiani, Tracy Morgan, and BFF alum Diarra Kilpatrick. Future episodes include Adam Scott, John Cho, and Sanaa Lathan. Welcome back to the “dimension of imagination.”
DEADLY CLASS
From executive producers Joe and Anthony Russo (the Russo Brothers), who brought you The Avengers (2018 and 2019) and the Captain America movies (2014 and 2016), comes a new graphic novel-inspired show about a teen superhero gang.
This unlikely team of misfit teenagers is training to use their superpowers to master the deadly arts. It’s like seeing Tarantino X-men teenagers who come to training at Hogwarts. The teens are trained by Master Lin, played by Benedict Wong, who you may recognize as Wong from Doctor Strange (Derrickson, 2016). This also stars Netflix darling Lana Condor from To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before (Johnson, 2018). Viewers may also like The Umbrella Academy (2019), a Netflix show also based on a graphic novel.
SEX EDUCATION
Trying to understand your sexual identity among your high school peers can be devastating. So Otis and Maeve started their own student-run underground sex therapy business. The diverse cast in Sex Education brings a variety of sexual experiences and issues to the show, creating a window into their self-education about their sexual awakenings. Take a look at this refreshing coming-of-age story that will have you visually impressed by the colorful 80s fashion and wide-angle aerial shots. Also, any mention of Hedwig and the Angry Inch (2001) has my heart.
BLACK MONDAY
You would think you’d seen enough of an alcohol-soaked, cocaine-filled Wall Street type after the excesses of The Wolf of Wall Street (Scorsese, 2013). But then you see this show starring Don Cheadle and Regina Hall, laced with the humor of comedy duo and executive producers Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, and you realize you are in for a new treat.
Set in 1987, Black Monday documents the worst stock market crash in U.S. history. It is packed with punchy lines, and years of talent fills the screen. The ridiculousness of any Rogen/Goldberg film combined with the high-stakes worlds of Goodfellas (Scorsese, 1990) and The Wolf of Wall Street (Scorsese, 2013) makes this show a must-see.
BABYLON BERLIN
If you ever wondered what it would feel like to get heart palpitations, watch the first five minutes of the first episode of this show.
This novel adaptation from German writer Volker Kutscher is a dark look into a pre-Nazi takeover. This investigative crime drama is set in 1929 and is as rich in its character storylines as it is [beautiful] to look at.
The story follows the main investigator and his unlikely partner, a female typist/“woman of the night" who is also an aspiring detective. This film noir is not short on intensity, and it is currently the most expensive TV series filmed in Germany.
THE CHI
Emmy-award-winning creator Lena Waithe brings you into an inner-city neighborhood in Chi-town, aka Chicago. This African-American community drama centers around a neighborhood influenced by violence, drugs, and despair. Like in HBO’s Baltimore-based drama The Wire, (2002–2008), characters try to figure out how to survive, but in the south side of Chicago.
GAME OF THRONES
G.
O.
T.
HBO does it again. The epic magnitude of this show’s impact will go down in TV history. It was once expressed to me as "a divine gift from the TV gods," and it goes without saying that Game of Thrones changed this generation of TV watchers. The number of awards this show has been nominated for and won is astounding. The number of character storylines, costumes, cinematography, and graphics are beyond comprehensible. If you want to see what a show with a budget of, on average, $10 million budget per episode looks like, just watch GoT.
And if you are itching for more stories about Westeros after this current and final season, don’t forget that the show was inspired by the twelve book series by George R.R. Martin.
HOMECOMING
Welcome to the phase where our big screen stars come to the small screen. Finally, we see Julia Roberts on TV in this Amazon Prime Video series, an adaptation of the podcast by the same name.
Robert’s character, Heidi Bergman, recalls her time as a caseworker in an inpatient facility helping soldiers transition back into society. She later realizes the intentions of the company were not what they had been made out to be. This psychological thriller is directed by Sam Esmail, who also directed Mr. Robot (2015–).
BONDING
Two high school best friends reunite as a dominatrix duo. This comedy is only about 15 mins per episode, for a total of 7 episodes. It may be unconventionally short for a TV series, but good writing is efficient! A story about bravery, acceptance of others, and self-acceptance.
SOMEONE GREAT
“Hold on to your nips, because we’ve got news for you!” If you love good zingers, and stories about female relationships and coming to terms with change, this is your next movie to watch.
In her directorial debut, writer/director/executive producer Jennifer Kaytin Robinson teams up with heroine-film hitmaker Paul Feig (Bridesmaids, 2011 and Ghostbusters, 2016) to bring a female point of view to rom-coms. If you love plots involving female friendships and the woes of relationships akin to Sex and the City (1998–2004) and buddy films like Knocked Up (Apatow, 2007), you will appreciate this film.
Also, you won’t want to miss the moment when the song “Dreaming of You” by Selena is played in a bodega. It’s like that moment in Harold and Kumar (Leiner, 2004) and Bridesmaids (Feig, 2011) when they sing Wilson Phillips’ “Hold On”: a reminiscent moment in time for us early-90s teens.
This film stars Gina Rodriguez, Dewanda Wise, and Brittany Snow, along with special cast mentions RuPaul as your classy drug dealer, and Questlove as the party DJ. This film celebrates our favorite rom-coms from John Hughes and adds a new modern flare.
HOMECOMING
Who runs this world? Bey. Like her, love her, or not, this performance documentary will go down in music history. The Coachella performance is double dutched with behind-the-scenes footage from rehearsals, the mental and physical struggle of a mother going back to work (yes, Beyonce is human), and quotes and recordings from powerful, influential individuals like Nina Simone, Alice Walker, and Maya Angelou.
This film was a celebration of African-American culture, and it clearly marks Beyonce as an activist and reinstates her status as an icon.
Even Sandra Oh watched it and dedicated her speech to Beyonce at this year’s Time 100 gala, in a speech originally intended to celebrate her immigrant mother. To see a video of Oh’s speech, CLICK HERE.
GUAVA ISLAND
Guava Island stars its writer, Donald Glover, singer-superstar, Rihanna, and everyone’s little sister from Black Panther (Coogler, 2018), Letitia Wright.
This 56-minute musical premiered at this year’s Coachella and is currently available on Amazon Prime Video. It starts with an animated intro to set the backdrop of this political love story between lovers, the island, and music.
This film brings me back to that pop culture moment when Glover released his music video for “This is America” in 2018, which was also performed during a factory scene. The vibrancy of the culture is not missed in this stylistic, colorful piece of independent magic. It reminds me of the beautiful stories and imagery that were seen in City of God (Meirelles and Lund, 2002) and West Side Story (Robbin and Wise, 1961)
Amanda is a film enthusiast that has dedicated their life to mental health awareness, CreateBeing.com. Amanda has a background in Film Studies and lives with their partner and their chinchilla, Chewbacca in Toronto, Canada.
Celebrating Father Figures in Film & TV
Written by Amanda Lederle
The title of father can be a crown to wear with pride, yet it can weigh heavy on a person’s head. The following examples of father figures are all only humans, trying to do the best they can with what they know and have been taught. We are introduced to grown men who find new ways to take care of their families, make amends, learn what it means to be a leader, and seek to find their personal identities.
Beginners
This film is about Oliver (played by Ewan McGreggor) reflecting on his life after his father’s death, while also trying to define the future of a new relationship. Oliver’s constant need for definition stems from his desire to find purpose and love.
After years of marriage to Oliver’s mother, Hal (Christopher Plummer) is in his 70s when he comes out as gay to his son. We see how Oliver’s relationship with his father changes afterward, up until Hal’s eventual death. This film is a wonderful example of how fathers may not always be who we think they are, and how it’s never too late to reveal one’s truth.
Christopher Plummer received an Academy Award for this role as Best Supporting Actor in 2011.
Morris From America
In the first minute of the film, Morris (Markees Christmas, in his first feature film) and his father Curtis (Craig Robinson) analyze what they think is good hip-hop music.
Right off the top, you see the strong bond between these two. Father and son then go out for ice cream, and we realize that these two African-American males in their matching New York Yankee hats are in Germany, very far from their American norms.
While Morris struggles to fit into the culture and the local adolescent community, he is also in search of his rapping identity. Meanwhile, Curtis finds himself struggling as well. This father figure is trying to deal with his grief after the passing of his wife, at the same time as he is learning to be a single father and trying to find his own way in German society. Seeing Robinson as a father is a refreshing change from the carefree, troublemaking characters he typically plays. Morris in America is a great story about finding your authentic voice and identity in a foreign place, no matter what age you are.
This film won two prizes at the 2016 Sundance Film Festival: the Waldo Salt Screenwriting Award, and for Craig Robinson, the U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Individual Performance.
Whale Rider
Traditions are important to maintaining culture. But how long should we continue to uphold a tradition if it no longer serves its purpose?
This is a story about a Maori tradition of training the first-born grandson of the chiefs to be the next leaders of a tribe. When the first-born grandson in a local Maori tribe dies at birth, his twin sister Pai seems to have the potential to be the future chief but is brushed off as a possible candidate.
However, as a strong female character, Pai does everything in her power to show her grandfather that she is capable of leading their tribe. After several challenges and with the support of other male tribe members, she eventually proves herself worthy of the position. A beautiful tale about how traditional male roles can be upheld by any gender, and that a community needs to support its members for the group to succeed.
Pai is played by thirteen-year-old Keisha Castle-Hughes, who in 2003 became the youngest nominee for the Academy Award for Best Actress.
The Royal Tenenbaums
What’s a list about fathers without Royal Tenenbaum? The father of three struggles to find his way back into his quirky family after years of questionable parenting. This story is about him making amends with his children and, as a result, how they come to terms with themselves.
Anderson’s films famously portray the experience of coming-of-age and people’s relationships with their fathers, and this film about adult children is no different. No matter how old we become, we still look for approval from our loved ones, as a father or as children.
Amanda is a film enthusiast that has dedicated their life to mental health awareness, CreateBeing.com. Amanda has a background in Film Studies and lives with their partner and their chinchilla, Chewbacca in Toronto, Canada. They are also a visual artist, you can find more on Instagram @amandalederle and @createbeing.
9 films and TV shows that shine a spotlight on the LGBTQ+ community, its challenges, and achievements! #IDAHOT
In celebration of International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, here are 9 films and TV shows to watch that shine a spotlight on the LGBTQ+ community, its challenges, and achievements. From dramas to comedies, we truly appreciate every story and its significance. Click the image for trailers. Happy IDAHOT day!
POSE
The category is…jaw dropping, heart warming, get out of your seat and start snapping at the TV goodness. You might start voguing down your halls after watching this pivotal show set in 1987, following the ball culture, like the iconic film Paris Is Burning (Livingston, 1990). The show juxtaposes the lively underground with upper class white executives, who work for Trump.
The show features 5 trans people of color - setting a record in TV history as the first show ever to feature these radiant performers. Showrunner, Ryan Murphy decided to donate his earnings to not-for-profit organizations in the LGBT community (intersex, trans and gender non-conforming) after hearing lived experiences while researching for the show. Season two premieres this June. This show is about connection, respect and love in your adopted community and ultimately being your true self.
MILK
A biopic about LGBT rights politician Harvey Milk’s rise to office. This film gives us a look at his leadership of hope, courage and bravery as the first elected openly gay California politician in 1978. Sean Penn wins an Oscar for Best Actor in this role.
TANGERINE
What do you do when you get out of jail and your bestie tells you that your cheating pimp boyfriend has a new cis-girlfriend? This comedy drama follows transgender sex worker, Sin-Dee’s search to find this woman in question and the many confrontations on her journey to redemption. Underneath that plot is a story truly about two best friends, Sin-Dee and Alexandra, both trans women who are strong, vivacious and have each other’s back. Alexandra even skipped her own phone bill to pay for Sin-Dee’s rent while she was in jail, that is a real friend! Seeing these trans characters as multi faceted, not just two dimensional stereotypes, was refreshing at its time. The film was shot with three iPhone 5S smartphones. This was before films and technology advanced as it has today. This was really a standout film at its time. In fact, one of the iPhones used has now been donated to the Academy of Motion Pictures. Locked in history.
DYKES IN THE STREET
The anticipated Inside Out Film Festival (May 23- June 2)l in Toronto celebrates the vibrant LGBT community. In this year’s festival, a documentary about the Dyke March, a staple during Pride Week, will have its World Premiere. Director, Almerinda Travassos, takes you on a journey from the past marches from 1981, 1991, 1996 and 2016 and shows you how these marches have made an impact in the political and cultural arena in Toronto. Thus asking the big question of what has been accomplished from these marches and what is next?
GAY CHORUS DEEP SOUTH
You may recall this title as we featured it as a must see at this year’s Tribeca Film Festival. Rodrigues features 300 singers on tour in the deep south. Frankly, sounds like a logistic nightmare but I digress. The choir travels to states like North Carolina, Alabama and Tennessee to a series of church performances where they encounter anti-LGBT laws and homophobia. A really powerful example of how sharing stories can change lives of others and the storytellers themselves. This film will have it’s Canadian Premiere at Toronto’s LGBT Film Festival, Inside Out.
WHEN WE RISE
A mini-series drama about LGBT struggle for equality over the last 40 years. It also documents the growth of activists like Cleve Jones and Roma Guy throughout different times in their lives. Each character is played by two actors at different ages, highlighting just how powerful and long they fought for these rights. It was created by the writer of MILK (Van Sant, 2008) and Dustin Lance Black. This moving show stars trans actor, Ivory Aquino, and other notable faces like Whoopi Goldberg, Rosie O’Donnell, Mary-Louise Parker, Guy Pearce and David Hyde Pierce. This timely show debuted in 2017, just as Trump announced roll-back of transgender bathroom protections.
BREAKING FREE
The filmmaker introduces the documentary as a personal project and gives insight to the LGBT experience and laws against homosexuality in India. You quickly recognizes that social injustice, brutality from officials and victimization of individuals is a worldwide issue for all LGBT people. The film does include positive coming out stories, political fights and an empowered future for the next generation. This film was shot from 2007-2014.
WILL & GRACE
There was nothing like it at the time. Originally a side story for another show, the Will and Grace characters shined so brightly, the network wanted creators, Max Mutchnick and David Kohan to develop their storyline. Though this sitcom may not seem like an important pick for LGBTQ+ rights, look again at the wide access of representation on a national network, prime time slot that gives this show a place on this list. It not only has won awards but showcases the first gay kiss on network television! That episode, titled “Acting Out”, was only in their second season. There is no doubt its reboot was brought back to a time where our culture, again, needs to be reminded of the visibility of a gay lead.
FREEDOM TO MARRY
This documentary shares the historical look at the social political climb towards same-sex marriage in the US. This inspiring film follows activist, Evan Wolfson, in his fight for the equal rights of same-sex marriage. His passion for equal rights has empowered this whole movement leading the countdown to the Supreme Court favoring the ruling of same-sex marriage. This film has won 8 Best Documentary awards and has been screened at over 20 film festivals.
This article was written by BFF contributing writer Amanda Lederle. Amanda is a film enthusiast that has dedicated her life to mental health awareness, CreateBeing.com. Amanda has a background in Film Studies and lives with their partner and their chinchilla, Chewbacca in Toronto, Canada.
10 Films and Events We Look Forward to at the 18th Annual Tribeca Film Festival
written by Amanda Lederle
There are so many good films, events, and parts of culture I would want to immerse myself in, so narrowing it down to just 10 was not easy. From seeing influential on and off screen figures speaking about the filmmaking process to their social, political effects on communities, this year’s Tribeca Film Festival ( April 24- May 5) is looking energetic and inspiring!
As a festival goer, I know to not overbook myself so that I don’t rush from one theatre to the next or miss out on meals. With that in mind my chosen 10, generally lined up to be one a day so you can map out your festival week with ease.
So get your pass, map out your nearby restaurants and coffee shops, it’s festival time!
1. SHORTS! We start with Shorts because there are various dates, mostly at the beginning of the festival. In this year’s lineup there are 63 short films. You can choose from Sci Fi, Nature, Comedy (Funhouse), LGBTQ, and even animated shorts curated by Whoopi Goldberg! Gasp. The list goes on and with such variety, you are bound to find one you like. Two really stood out:
THE BOXERS OF BRULE (Jessie Adler, 2018, New York Premiere) directed by Adler, a Human Rights Storyteller, shares journey of a Lakota woman who creates a boxing team to combat youth suicide.
THE DOWNFALL OF SANTA CLAUS (Robert Depuis, 2018, North American Premiere) from Norwegian filmmaker Depuis brings to life in claymation a boy’s faith in St. Nick which is the only reason Santa Claus exists!
2. IN LIVING COLOR (Tribeca TV, Premiere Episode from 1990)
Sound the alarm and cancel all your plans on April 27, this is an event you do not want to miss. If you grew up watching In Living Color, like I did, you are in for a treat! Under the TV category, Tribeca is celebrating the premiere episode to celebrate its debut in 1990. This show set the stage for well-known actors like Jamie Foxx, Jim Carrey, David Alan Grier, Tommy Davidson and obviously, the Wayan brothers. Audience members will have a special experience with a post-screening conversation with creator and star Keenan Ivory Wayans and co-stars Shawn Wayans, Kim Wayans, Tommy Davidson, David Alan Grier, and Rosie Perez. This is surely a not to miss event for fans.
3. SEE YOU YESTERDAY (Stefon Bristol, 2019, World Premiere)
Bristol, a Bushwick Film Festival alum and 2018 Rising Star Award winner, teamed up with Spike Lee to further develop his short, same name, into this feature. A timely cultural commentary, this story is about two friends who make a time machine to go back in time to save her brother from being wrongfully killed by a police officer. This feature film will be released on Netflix this year.
4.TRIXIE MATTEL: MOVING PARTS (Nick Zeig-Owens, 2019, World Premiere)
Calling all RuPaul’s Drag Race fans! Your Drag Race All-Star winner, Trixie Mattel gives you a behind the scenes look at what it’s like to be a folk singer, host your own talk show, relationships that falter and the trials of being on the road after winning Drag Race. A for attending audiences is a performance by Trixie Mattel treat after the screening!
5. LUCKY GRANDMA (Sasie Sealy, 2019, World Premiere)
Tsai Chin, (who has also been in two Bond films, one as a Bond girl) stars as a gambling grandmother who finds herself in trouble between New York gangsters. Directed by Sasie Sealy, a Tribeca alum winner of two film awards is sure to showcase this dark comedy of an immigrant woman with a punch of striking visuals. This film was the winner of the 2018 Untold Stories, a pitch in presented by AT&T and Tribeca Film Institute with a $1 million prize. The film celebrates women of color, on and behind camera.
6. GAY CHORUS DEEP SOUTH (David Charles Rodrigues, 2019, World Premiere)
This documentary chronicles the journey of 300 members of the Gay Men's Chorus of San Francisco traveling in the South. If you want to see a 100-minute film about bravery, friendship, and acceptance you’ve found it here. In Rodrigues’ feature documentary debut, viewers are introduced to members’ stories of being ostracized, relationships with the church and community and the transformation of common humanity. If this film doesn’t open your heart to sing, I don’t know what will!
7. TUCA AND BERTIE (Tribeca TV, 2019, World Premiere)
Get ready to laugh. Tiffany Haddish and Ali Wong voice this animated episodic series about two 30-year-old friends. Did I mention they are also birds? If you like the humor and style of Bojack Horseman, you are in for a treat! Paulie, wanna cracker? (I’m sorry, I had to throw in a pet bird joke #sorrynotsorry). This Netflix show is debuting at the festival and will be available to watch at home on May 3. Stay after the screening for an conversation with Ali Wong, Tiffany Haddish and creator, Lisa Hanawalt.
8. THE REMIX: HIP HOP X FASHION (Lisa Cortes and Farah X, 2019, World Premiere)
Rewind to a time where 80s and 90s hip hop fashion was dominated by men, standout voices like Mary J Blige, Missy Elliot and Lil’Kim expressed themselves through fashion to be heard. This film from two women of color looks at the journey of female hip hop artists and their influence as fashion icons. Cortes is known for her work as producer on MONSTER’S BALL (Marc Forster, 2001) and PRECIOUS (Lee Daniels, 2009). Farah X has worked with high profile brands including Calvin Klein, Coach and music icons like Prince, Mariah Carey, and J.Lo.
9. LOST TRANSMISSIONS (Katharine O’Brien, 2019, World Premiere)
Juno Temple and Simon Pegg star in this commentary about the mental healthcare system and homeless landscape in LA. Pegg plays a music producer who stops taking his schizophrenia medication while Temple’s character gathers her friends to find him to get into treatment. I am looking forward to seeing how Pegg portrays this character alongside the backdrop of this urban cityscape. This is O’Brien’s feature debut.
10. Tribeca Pride
A whole day dedicated to LGBTQ conversations, I am squealing with excitement! From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. you can enjoy a full day of discussions about activism, representation in politics and Hollywood, being multi-creative and much more. The whole day is a preamble to the evenings World Premiere of the documentary, WIG (Chris Moukarbel, 2019) a film about the drag movement through archival and contemporary footage.
This is going to be a night to remember! Screening also begins with 7 specially selected LBGTQ+ shorts. Following the feature is a drag performance hosted by Lady Bunny including Charlene Incarnate, Bobby Samplsize, Flotilla and many more. The full day will be sprinkled by community members and big screen actors like Neil Patrick Harris and John Cameron Mitchell and community leaders like Alok Vaid Menon and Jacob Tobia.
For Tickets and passes to the 18th Annual Tribeca Film Festival visit: www.tribecafilm.com/festival/tickets
If you are attending and watching any of these films let us know what you think and share a picture of you at the screening. Tag @BushwickFilmFest.
Enjoy the show!
This article was written by BFF contributing writer Amanda Lederle. Amanda is a film enthusiast that has dedicated her life to mental health awareness, CreateBeing.com. Amanda has a background in Film Studies and lives with their partner and chinchilla, Chewbacca in Toronto, Canada.
Celebrate Pride Month With These 5 Films!
In celebration of Pride onth, here are the top 5 films you should take the time out to see!
Disobedience / Directed by Sebastián Lelio
Based on the novel by Naomi Alderman, director Sebastián Lelio delves into the lives of two orthodox women whose lifelong status as friends develops into something very intimate.
Disobedience gives a voice to two populations that are underrepresented in film: LGBTQIA+ and Orthodox Jewish women.
Depicting the contented convergence of homosexuality and religion, this film should be prioritized above all other films this summer! Not convinced? How about this: the film stars Rachel Weiz and Rachel McAdams, whose performances have collectively garnered recognition by some of the most prestigious film names in the United States, including The Academy Awards, The Golden Globes, The New York Film Critics Circle, and many more.
Support your local theaters: Now playing at the Brooklyn Academy of Music’s Harvey Theater and the Nitehawk Cinema in Williamsburg!
Duck Butter / Directed by Miguel Arteta
Duck Butter is an experimental comedy that finds two women dissatisfied with relationships who decide to establish intimacy in a smothering kind of way: sex every hour within the span of 24 hours.
This is a film written by a woman that focuses solely on the voices of women, which is exactly what we need in these times: underrepresented voices telling their own stories.
Duck Butter is not currently in theaters but it was picked up by The Orchard at Tribeca and can be rented on Amazon.
Love, Simon (2018) / Directed by Greg Berlanti
You haven’t seen this yet? A 17-year-old teenage boy is harboring a secret: his sexual orientation. When his secret is threatened by a blackmailer, he has no choice but to come to terms with his identity.
The LGBQTIA+’s reluctance to freely express their true identity with the people they love is understandable because it is still a very risky and difficult thing to do. Further representation in media helps make it easier, even if only a little bit. This is the first film by a high profile Hollywood studio to focus on homosexual teen romance.
Love, Simon finished up its theatrical run a few weeks ago, but it is available for purchase on Amazon!
The Miseducation of Cameron Post / Directed by Desiree Akhavan
The film tells the story of a lesbian who is forced to go to a gay conversion center. She meets others who also find the concept of converting one’s sexuality to be ineffective. Miseducation's premise is that gay conversion is futile: homosexuality is innate, and cannot be purged for the sake of heteronormativity.
Support your local theaters: The Miseducation of Cameron Post will be at the William Vale on July 31st!
Call Her Ganda / Directed by PJ Raval
In 2014, a Philippine transgender woman was found murdered in a motel. The public identification of the prime suspect—-a U.S. marine—-ignited a political insurgency against the ubiquitous transphobic attitudes and the post-colonial relationship between the United States and the Philippines.
Violence against the transgender community is more often than not a manifestation of ignorance and the disbelief that gender identity cannot be simply reduced to genitals.
BONUS: Blowin' Up / Directed by Stephanie Wang-Breal
A look into a team of courageous women who advocate against the criminalization of prostitution. The overwhelming majority of women arrested are undocumented Asian immigrants, black, Latina and transgender youth and in this film we meet those fighting for decriminalization, as well as the women, working as prostitutes, who are cruelly represented, all while gaining insight into how our current justice system unjustly handles those who need to do this work to survive. Put aside the romanticized depiction of the privileged Belle de Jour-- the life of the average sex worker is precarious and coercive. Support your local theaters: Blowin’ Up is not in Brooklyn yet, but it will be playing at the Landmark E Street Cinema on June 15th.
Find more info about the film here! https://www.blowinupfilm.com/
New York’s Finest Soccer Film Festival Celebrates its 10th Edition Next Week!
One of New York City’s amazing perks for film lovers is its many specialty film festivals. One of these gems is the Kicking + Screening Soccer Film Festival which will be held from May 22-25 at the Scandinavia House (58 Park Ave). Now in its 10th edition, Kicking + Screening highlights the world’s game in all its facets, showcasing a diverse selection of stories. While all revolve around the beautiful game, they also touch on many broader issues such as women empowerment, LGBTQ discrimination or how to deal with loss.
The opening night film “Football For Better or For Worse” highlights FC Rosengård, one of the world's top women’s clubs with Brazilian star player Marta, and their struggle to survive in a male-dominated industry. It’s followed by “I Love Hooligans”, a short doc about a gay hooligan that is trapped between the love for his club and his sexual identity. Another fantastic feature doc is “Nossa Chape” which celebrated its world premiere at SXSW 2018. Directors Jeff & Michael Zimbalist and co-director, Julian Duque, provide a compelling documentary that follows the Chapecoense club beyond the tragic demise of all but three players in an airplane crash, and how fans, their city, and the club itself are trying to move on.
We have secured a 15% discount for you with code KSNY. To buy tickets and view the full program visit http://www.kickingandscreening.com/ks-ny-2018. This year’s world cup may be without team USA but that doesn’t mean you can’t get your soccer fix this summer!
Written by
Tilo Zingler
Festival Review - Berlinale 2018
The Bushwick Film Festival loves when independent films and filmmakers are put into the spotlight, and few festivals shine it brighter than the Berlinale. The festival offers an intriguing mix of Hollywood glamour, international powerhouses and up-and-coming filmmakers, as well as one of the largest film markets in the world. But what really sets the festival apart, is its accessibility and public acceptance, with audiences lining up venue after venue and independent films drawing crowds of up to 1,000 people. At ten in the morning, mind you. Another aspect filmmakers and audiences can appreciate alike, is the high standard of presentation. While some festivals may seem to think louder is better or simply lack the infrastructure (yes, Bushwick needs a proper movie theatre!), the Berlinale excels with high-end hardware, crisp sound and amazing venues like the Friedrichstadt Palast, Kino International and many more. As Steven Soderbergh pointed out before his world premiere of Unsane at the Berlinale Palast: “This movie may never look as good again as here.” He may be right. Read our take on a few more films we caught, follow the Bushwick Film Festival on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook and don’t forget to submit your film!
Photo Credit: T. Zingler, BFF
'Isle of Dogs' directed by Wes Anderson
The Berlinale’s opening night film comes with a lot of star power and fanfare. In a somewhat dystopian Japan all dogs have been banished to remote Trash Island. A young boy named Atari sets out on a rescue mission for his beloved Spots and crashes on the island. Complicating matters is the fact that Atari is the adopted child of the mastermind behind the K9 exile. The film struts with detail and is another masterpiece of stop-motion style animation. It’s quirky and the story has its moments, letting the viewer temporarily look past the animation onslaught and indulge into the characters, a huge achievement for a film that is visually so different. Still, overall, there aren’t too many surprises and it feels like the film runs out of time at the end, rushing towards a conclusion. Nevertheless, this is a must-see for Wes Anderson fans.
'Black 47' directed by Lance Daly
British Imperialism has been the backdrop for a lot of blockbuster movies from Braveheart to Gandhi, but the English involvement in the Great Famine in Ireland has largely gone unnoticed cinematically, according to the makers of Black 47. An Irish Ranger desserts from British forces and after finding his loved ones deceased and wronged upon his return, goes on a killing spree, working his way up from local henchman to British lord. Not even Hugo Weaving as the good antagonist gone bad and good again, can salvage this very predictable film. While some of the imagery is indeed disturbing and effective in portraying the unfathomable plight of the people, the film does little to transform the viewers disgust into a more meaningful emotion.
'Don’t Worry, He Won’t Get Far on Foot' directed by Gus Van Sant
A Berlinale darling, Gus Van Sant delivers an autobiographical film about John Callahan, a dark humored quadriplegic turned cartoonist. Much like the main character played by Joaquín Phoenix, the film rolls along the lines of humor, disgust, fright and amazement. Phoenix delivers a heartfelt and believable performance without guilting audiences too much for a man that has brought a lot of his misery on himself. After an intoxicated night out with fellow alcoholic Dexter played by Jack Black, John ends up paralyzed and in a wheelchair. Having to finally face his demons, John finds a way back into a meaningful life with the help of a few friends, most notably guru-like Donnie played by Jonah Hill. Van Sant finds a good balance between dramatic and comedic moments and creates a thoroughly entertaining film that matches well with the twisted humor of Callahan.
'Unsane' directed by Steven Soderbergh
This film may be something of an experiment, considering it was shot exclusively on an iPhone 7 Plus. Purist may shudder but the good news for independent filmmakers is: you can make a stylish film with just that! Looking past the gear, the film has an interesting premise — SPOILER ALERT — of a woman accidently checking into a closed mental facility and than more or less legally being held there against her will, as part of an insurance scam. Claire Foy turns in a feisty performance as the female lead, yet it seems that the film can’t decide whether it should take a turn for a John Grisham-esque type of suspense or just plain shock survival flick. For the former, it lacks a feasible antagonist with depth and it’s also at times visually violent. Yet for all the blood spilled, it’s still far far away from the likes of Saw. Nevertheless, a good pick for anyone that likes a suspenseful thriller that doesn’t simply celebrate brute violence.
'Khook' (Pig) directed Mani Haghighi
If you have a chance you should see this film, based alone on offering a glimpse into a country that has been ostracized like few others, yet people barely know about it. But if you’re expecting one of those heavy, food-for-thought, pressing international dramas, you will be in for a surprise. The leading man, Hassan Majooni, constantly wears metal and rock icon t-shirts, smokes like a chimney, destroys tennis rackets with a passion and is in a constant state of crisis. He’s been blacklisted by the government, his muse wants to work with his enemy, and a killer is decapitating everyone in the Iranian film establishment — everyone except for him, the most relevant director of them all! Khook is a dark comedy that is visually loud and lavish, politically incorrect and often reminds viewers of Tarantino’s/Rodriguez’ escapades. The film boldly deviates from what you typically see in the Iran news and media, and for that, we highly recommend a viewing.
'Las Herederas' (The Heiresses) directed by Marcelo Martinessi
Las Herederas is a true gem of independent filmmaking. The story overflows with strong women, each represented in their very own particular way. It centers around an aged lesbian couple (Chiquita and Chela), both from wealthy families that have to start selling off their belongings when funds become scarce. But while not even a stint in prison can quench the outgoing Chiquita’s lust for life, the introvert Chela struggles mightily with their dilemma. Slowly, she starts to accept the challenge of being temporarily on her own and after meeting the young and vibrant Angy, she outright embraces her new situation. The film strikes a pleasant and gentle tone and builds suspense from Chela rediscovering life with all its ups and downs - no artificial plot twists needed. Las Herederas is a beautifully intimate film that goes for the subtle high instead of the dramatic bang and it’s masterfully carried by an extraordinary performance from Ana Brun, which deservedly won her Best Actress at the Berlinale.
'Twarz' (Mug) directed by Malgorzata Szumowska
Twarz is a merciless tally of the Polish status quo. Jacek is a construction worker, lives with his family on a farm and gets ridiculed by his brothers for being a long-haired Metallica fan. But he embraces the rebel role and even gets the pretty girl. However, when he has a severe accident that requires a face transplant his disfigured appearance pushes him outside what’s socially acceptable. Now an outsider not by choice but by physical manifestation, he’s rejected by his love, his family, his church community and even a pastor that’s more interested in sexual confessions than Jacek’s costly rehabilitation. Malgorzata blatantly tears apart everything sacred in Poland and uses the camera to paint an ugly picture of her country; one engrained with racism, alcoholism, sexism and religious furor. The film will probably not win many popularity contests in Poland but it did win the Jury Grand Prix at the Berlinale.