by GREG KING James Bond is the most famous cinematic spy. And we know the story about how Ian Fleming appropriated the name of a birdwatcher for his iconic character. But what happens to other people who share that iconic name? How do they cope with the gags about martinis, etc? Filmmaker Matt Bauer was… Continue Reading »
THE LOST CITY OF MELBOURNE – interview with GUS BERGER
by GREG KING Filmed during the pandemic lockdown Gus Berger’s fascinating documentary is the sad story of the cinema heritage we have lost as well as an exploration of why a city would wipe out its past in favour of modern buildings and sterile skyscrapers. Drawing upon archival footage the films shows how Melbourne’s landscape… Continue Reading »
CHILDRENS’ INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL – interview with Thomas Caldwell
by GREG KING The fourth Childrens’ International Film Festival screens at the Lido, Classic, Cameo and Ritz Cinemas from May 28. The program features 21 kid friendly films and tv series from around the world, as well as plenty of hands-on family friendly activities. The festival also includes a 40th anniversary screening of Don Bluth’s… Continue Reading »
FRIENDS AND STRANGERS – interview with director James Vaughan
by GREG KING Friends and Strangers is the debut feature film for writer/director James Vaughan. It is a comedy/drama about young twentysomethings fumbling their way through life. The film was shot on location around Sydney in 2019, and Vaughan spent the best part of a year editing it. Greg spoke to James about the origins… Continue Reading »
JEWISH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 2022 – interview with artistic director Eddie Tamir.
by GREG KING This year the Jewish International Film Festival serves up a selection of 55 premiere films from 20 countries, which explore the challenges accompanying change. As usual there is a balance between documentaries and fictional features, as well as a curated selection of short films. The festival premiers two new Australian films. The… Continue Reading »
ALLIANCE FRANCAIS FRENCH FILM FESTIVAL 2022 – interview with artistic director Karine Mauris
by GREG KING The French Film Festival screens at Palace Cinemas around Australia from March 3, and serves up some of the best contemporary cinema from France. The opening night film is the big budget lavish production Lost Illusions, adapted from the 185-year-old Balzac novel and featuring a star-studded cast. Closing the festival is the… Continue Reading »