Notes from the SIFF underground

Ok, it's not really underground, but I like to feel like I'm on the cutting edge. I saw yet another great film at SIFF. "Layer Cake" is a UK crime/action/thriller starring Daniel Craig, among others including Colm Meaney. They asked that we not write reviews on the film until its release, so I will honor that request. If you're interested, come in to the theater and ask me in person.

From what I can tell so far, SIFF this year looks to be fantastic, and I am truly looking forward to tomorrow's screenings. As soon as I can, I'll get some festival info and post it in the theater lobby.

As a side note - if you haven't seen "Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill", you really ought to. And I'm not just plugging the film because we're playing it. I just love great films, and like to pass on the good word. Put it on your 'to rent' list if you can't make it in.

Greetings from SIFF

Sometimes the way a thing begins can be an indication of how it will continue. Or at least this is what my superstitious side would suggest. If there is any truth in this, then I have high hopes for the Seattle Internatuional Film Festival. I have again been granted access to the press screenings at the festival, and saw my first film of the series today, a documentary called "Earthling." This is an amazing film, and I can't help but be excited for the rest of the festival.
Tristan Bayer narrates the story which revolves around his father, documentary filmmaker Wolfgang Bayer. After a near death experience, Wolfgang decides to include his family on one last film, enlisting them as crew. The family binds together as they travel the world over, filming animals and the environments they live in, from orangutans in the jungle to the arctic tundra's poalr bears. Tristan relates through poetic narration how he comes closer to his father and how he emerges as a filmmaker in his own right.
The film is powerful on many levels. As a documentary on animals and the earth; as a documentary on the making of the film and on Wolfgang the filmmaker; and as a powerful story of how a son bonds with his father, seeing the world through his eyes, bridging the space between them. The film is very personal, while still allowing the viewer in. It made me think of my relationships with my own family, as well as my place on planet earth.
An incredible film. As I wiped the tears from my eyes, I noticed everyone else around me doing the same. A truly powerful documentary film which I won't soon forget.

Welcome to the Grand Cinema Movie Line!

I'll keep you updated on the new films coming out and will be posting regularly during the Seattle International Film Festival (SIFF) this May. Watch for advice on which films to see during the festival that might not make it to Tacoma!

Shawn Sylvian
Artistic Director
The Grand Cinema