Saturday, March 3---Minnie Driver slowly removed her sunglasses at the Cinequest press conference, and quietly said, “I don’t want to force my bloodshot eyes on you.” She had worked until 3:30 a.m. before traveling to San Jose to receive the Maverick Spirit Award at an event scheduled later in the afternoon. “I’m really happy to be here. Exhausted but happy,” stated the London-born actor.When asked if she considered herself a maverick, Driver thoughtfully replied, “I don’t lie i...

My day began with the Day of Sight and Sound and Panasonic's P2 presentation, followed by a quick press conference, and then Carl Miller's presentation of his film, Retribution. I always feel that this day has the potential to be a powerful learning tool for local and visiting filmmakers, and for future sessions I would love to see cinematographers and sound designers invited in to share their knowledge with us. A guy can dream...I rounded off the day with two excellent films from opposi...

"The truth is, there is no sure thing, and I would argue that when you are doing something that you do really care about, and are passionate about, the odds are overwhelmingly in your favor, it will succeed."As part of the Day of Distribution, developed by Cinequest to further understanding and discussion of new distribution technologies, film community building and enterprising new business models, the packed audience at the San Jose Repertory Theater was treated to a sparkling 90-min...

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Friday, March 2---Christine Vachon can now add “Cinequest Maverick” to honors ranging from the Frameline Award for Outstanding Achievement in Lesbian and Gay Media in 1994, Producer of the Year from the National Board of Review in 2003 and New York MoMA retrospective honoree in 2005. Her films have garnered Independent Spirit Awards and Oscars in numerous categories. Following a rollicking interview with Jens Hussey, Cinequest Director of Public Relations,...

On Friday night I was treated to one of the strongest selections of twisted short films I have ever seen, Cinequest's Mindbenders. Not only were these films disturbing and extremely well produced, but the three directors I met personify everything that is great about independent filmmakers.This game is all about self-promotion, innovation and risk-taking, and Arthur, Ehran and Richard have these qualities in spades.Let's start with Arthur. Here's a fantastic example of self promotion...

Friday, March 2-----Sandy Mandelberger, the editor of AWARDS WATCH, is currently attending the Miami International Film Festival. I invite our regular readers to follow coverage of the films, filmmakers and special events taking place in Miami from March 2 to 11. New postings for the AWARDS WATCH  site will resume the week of March 12th. Until then, as they say in the tropics, I wish you a sun-sational time.....Miami Film Festival Online Dailies Coverage: www.miami.fest21.comSandy Mandelberger,...

Friday, March 2-----Sandy Mandelberger, the editor of FILM NEW YORK, is currently attending the Miami International Film Festival. I invite our regular readers to follow coverage of the films, filmmakers and special events taking place in Miami from March 2 to 11. New postings for the FILM NEW YORK site will resume the week of March 12th. Until then, as they say in the tropics, I wish you a sun-sational time.....Miami Film Festival Online Dailies Coverage: www.miami.fest21.comSandy Mandelberger,...