Newest articles on The Sacramento Press tagged as "french film festival"

French composer to add life to time-tested film

2011-01-22T02:10:57Z

Kicking off its 10th year, the Sacramento French Film Festival has invited French composer Raymond Alessandrini to direct an orchestral accompaniment for its first film/concert, which will be performed by the Sacramento Philharmonic Orchestra.

“It’s something we’ve never done before. It’s quite exceptional,” said French Film Festival Executive and Artistic Director Cécile Downs.

The show will be held at the Crest Theatre on Jan. 29 and 30.

“It’s a very big event for us,” Downs said. “We (often) have guests, but usually they are just coming to present a film that is already finished. Having the composer of the score coming is more exceptional.”

The film to be shown is a 1928 silent film, “Un Chapeau de Paille d’Italie” (“An Italian Straw Hat”), directed by René Clair. It was originally based off the play by Eugène Labiche.

“This film is extremely funny,” Downs said. “It goes at a very, very fast pace ... in France, it is one of the most famous silent films.”

When the film was originally shown, it would have been accompanied by a pianist in a theater, Downs said.

In 1986, when the Cinémathèque Française (France’s national film center) celebrated its 50th anniversary, several composers were asked to write scores to original silent films that had been restored, Alessandrini told The Sacramento Press.*

Alessandrini was chosen to write the score to “An Italian Straw Hat” and another film.

“The challenge is always to respect the character, the style and the spirit of the director,” Alessandrini said in an e-mail. “For ‘The Italian Straw Hat,’ the difficulty was to be musically funny with the most subtlety possible, all the while staying true to the occasional surrealism of René Clair, as well as the rapidity and precision of the film editing.”

He added that in addition to needing to write the music so it is both precise and detailed – akin to the music of a cartoon – a lot of the difficulty comes in directing the orchestra so the sounds are at all times synchronized with the film’s images.

“The film is one of the great classics of French cinema and is very much appreciated by the film lovers in France and those interested in René Clair,” Alessandrini said. “It is also one of the great theater works of the 19th century.”

Alessandrini said Labiche wrote the play as a mockery of the stupidity of his contemporaries.

“It is a very funny film that puts everyone in a good mood,” he said. “The duration is 1 hour and 24 minutes, but it gives the impression that it’s over in 10 minutes. The music contributes enormously to the humor of the scenes, and it is always a sight to see these films on a big screen with a live orchestra.”

Alessandrini said he has not spent much time in the United States, but did a similar show in the early 1980s at a film festival in Colorado, also working with American musicians.

He has performed “An Italian Straw Hat” in England, Belgium, the Netherlands, Spain and all the large cities in Italy. He has also done two show tours in Russia, and one on the Middle East, he said.

He got his start in the industry as a classically trained musician, and it was when he worked as a pianist that he met filmmakers and producers, who led him down the path to eventually composing scores to accompany restored films.

“It’s an honor to me to be able to work with the musicians of the Sacramento Philharmonic, and I hope that this will be a pleasant experience and will bring much pleasure and joy to the people of Sacramento,” he said.

“Everywhere you go in the world, this music and this film are a success,” he added. “It’s a rare show, and it’s a shame if you don’t take advantage of it.”

The film will be shown twice – at 8 p.m. Jan. 29 and 2 p.m. Jan. 30.

Tickets are $30, or $25 for friends of the film festival, philharmonic subscribers and members of the Alliance Française or Tempo. Tickets can be purchased at Tickets.com, by phone at (800) 225-2277 or at the Crest Theatre box office.

“I think, to me it’s kind of a historic moment in Sacramento,” Downs said. “We’re bringing a French composer, it’s a very very famous and funny film, and it’s just gonna be fun. I can’t say when we’re going to do that again, so it’s not to be missed.”

*Interview with Raymond Alessandrini conducted in French and translated to English by Brandon Darnell, staff reporter for The Sacramento Press.

Sacramento French Film Festival's opening night

2010-06-21T04:14:43Z

Parlez vous français? Non? That’s OK!

Crowds permeated the lobby of the Crest Theatre Friday as the Sacramento French Film Festival, whose theme this year is "My life is a French film!", celebrated their opening night with an excellent reception and two French-directed films, one short and one feature length.

The film of the night was “A l'Origine (In the Beginning)”, directed by Xavier Giannoli. Based on a true story, it had multiple accents of beauty throughout, including a scene where the protagonist con-man is stuck in a storm, raving like a lunatic in true Learish fashion. The film also played on morality issues, especially the morality of the thief.

Cinematically the film was brilliant as well, and even garnished a Lumiere Award for cinematographer Glynn Speeckaert. The film was also graced with an Étoiles d’Or for best actor François Cluzet, who looks strikingly like Dustin Hoffman, and a César Award for best supporting actress Emmanuelle Devos.

The plot centers around a middle-aged con-man who is always on the move and must continue what he is best at, almost as a drive for survival more than a need for money. When he comes across a town that’s devastated by unemployment, he must make difficult decisions.

The lead, Cluzet in the role of Philippe Miller, shines. His mannerisms fit his role to the letter, providing a palpable arc for the character. The protagonist always leaves the audience asking what he is thinking. While much American cinema is saturated with telling the audience what to think, Giannoli and Cluzet are busy letting the audience decide, making good use of silence in the characters.

The other film of the night was a short by Stéphanie Vasseur entitled "Le Petit Marin," a story told through the eyes of a small nuclear family. To give a synopsis of the plot is to take away from the beauty and complexity of the film, but Vasseur has furthered her mark on humanism and metaphor through "Petit."

MAX’S RATING: A TEAR, A SIGH, AND A FRENCH TRANSLATING APP ON MY IPHONE.

For more information on the Sacramento French Film Festival, visit their website.

Pictures:

1. courtesy of the Sacramento French Film Festival

2. courtesy of Maxwell McKee

Day two of French film festivities

2009-06-22T05:07:23Z

The Crest Theatre transformed into a circus ring for the first weekend of the French Film Festival. The night began with a high-production fashion show, Cirque de la Mode, and the curtain came down after the showing of “Lola Montés,” which was the inspiration for the whole night.

Audience members were greeted by a ringmistress wearing a futuristic can-can dancers’ outfit, whip in hand, strutting across the stage and warning the audience, “This show is not for the faint of heart!” And the show proved to be beyond vibrant.

DJ Roger was spinning French electro tunes from the likes of Yelle and the Prototypes as the models took to the stage.

There were can-can outfits, fishnet stockings, platform heels and, of course, tulle and ruffle skirts. The designers did more modern pieces with accents of eccentric circus themes, like one-piece jumpsuits.

The whole show could not have been done without the work of the directors, Joni Jacobs of Opaline’s Closet and Tina Romo of Canvas Salon. This is their second show together for the festival, and they plan on continuing the tradition.

Jacobs described the genesis of the concept as a collaborative process between her and the director of the festival, Cécile Mouette Downs.

“We figure out a movie to do with fashion. This year she wanted to do a classical piece, so I bought the movie and watched it several times and started thinking,” she said.

Jacobs’ initial brainstorming drew from Cirque du Soleil. “I started to put the theme of fashion and the vintage circus together,” Jacobs said. Her creative process culminated in what she called a “thesis statement.”

“I kind of took it from there and tried to figure out how to incorporate the different styles of hair and makeup and make it relevant to circus of 1955, but also make it beautiful for today,” Romo added.

The cooperation among Canvas, Magic and Allure salons resulted in big, elaborate hairstyles with color extensions and a massive amount of teasing.

Jacobs was able to recruit local designers to contribute to the show through her boutique, Opaline’s Closet. “They get the theme, but I like to work with giving everybody their artistic and creative self to unleash,” Jacobs emphasized. The designers in the show were allowed artistic license and great leeway in developing an aesthetic for the show theme.

The concept would not have come to fruition without the help of the models. Not all of them looked like conventional models, but both Jacobs and Romo highlighted the importance of this. “It should be a variety of face shapes and colors, people, styles-- everything. That’s what makes it beautiful,” Romo said.

The show went smoothly, and the audience applauded every design on display. Afterward, the crowd had the pleasure of viewing the film that inspired it all, “Lola Montés,” directed by Max Ophüs.

In 19th-century Europe, the entertainment world saw Lola Montes as its scandal-mongering dancer. The film, based on the true life of Elisa Rosanna Gilbert, portrays her as a rambunctious young woman who narrates her various adventures, misadventures and romances.

She recounts tales of traveling the world, dancing in the Spanish style of Bolero for the theater and falling in love with the King of Bavaria. It is as a focal piece of the circus that she is able to act out scenes of her past for the audience’s enjoyment.

In many of the circus scenes, it is easy to see the inspiration for some of the pieces in the fashion show. The feathery hair pieces, beading and big skirts were translated to the Crest Theatre’s stage.

Lola Montés' life was a spectacle and the final act was a death defying feat.

The Crest Theatre is located at 1013 K St. The French Film Festival will continue through June 28. For more information visit http://www.sacramentofrenchfilmfestival.org/.

photo credit: Denis Rouleau

Lots of free (and cheap) events this Weekend!!

2009-06-17T23:55:20Z

It has never occurred to me that Father's Day weekend always happens at the same time as the summer solstice. Is that by coincidence? The longest, sunniest day of the year falls on the weekend that we celebrate our Dad's. That's kind of cool! At least for those of us who celebrate them. Otherwise, think of it as an extended day for you to be having fun! This weekend is packed with family friendly events for the whole family to enjoy at budget friendly prices. There are a few things I've mentioned that are a little more pricey... but they sound so fun! Whatever your budget is and whomever you'd like to spend your time with, check out what this weekend has in store.

Thursday 6.18

Class: Small Business Forum: Going Green -- $FREE
Where: SHCC Offices (1491 River Park Dr)
When: 9am
Why: Every month a different topic is featured in these workshops. From accounting practices, legal issues, buying new technology and creating a business plan—they’ll teach you all you need to know to be more efficient in your business. This month will focus on the latest trend in business…Going Green. It won’t cost you any green to come so check it out!
Details

Food & Wine: Wild West Cheese Adventure -- $45
Where: C’est le Cheese (Penthouses at Capitol Park)
When: 6:30pm-8:30pm
Why: “Artisan cheese makers are pushing the frontiers of flavor into an entirely new world by using the sweetest, creamiest milk from locally raised cows, goats and sheep to create an exquisite array of stupendous artisan cheese. Join Laura Martinez, author of "The Everything Cheese Book", in a tasting adventure of these wild and wooly cheese creations paired with wine and beer from pioneering vintners and brewers. This class is guaranteed to transport you to the best of the Wild West!”~ C’est le Cheese
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Music: Third Thursday Jazz Summer Concert Series -- $10 (FREE to Crocker Members)
Where: CSUS Capistrano Hall
When: 5:30pm-8pm
Why: The Garrett Perkins Project will entertain with their versatile range of Jazz from bebop to modern contemporary jazz. The Garrett Perkins Project is dedicated to promoting music that is at once educational and entertaining. Garrett has had a Quartet since the age of fifteen as an avenue for playing his beloved alto saxophone.
Details

Friday 6.19

Festival: Sacramento French Film Festival—Opening Night -- $10/ $9 students (single ticket)
Where: Crest Theatre
When: 6pm (Movie at 8:30pm) ***The festival runs through Sunday, June 28th***
Why: Opening night and reception! You cannot see the film tonight without going to the reception. Enjoy an open wine bar and catered hors d’oeuvres by local restaurants and music by DJ Christophe. The Sacramento French Film Festival is an annual event held in July. It celebrates the present as well as the rich history of French cinema featuring new releases and rarely seen classics. It is the only festival dedicated to French cinema in Northern California and one of only two on the West coast. The Sacramento Bee described the Festival as “the Cinematic Highlight of Sacramento's Summer”. All of the films are in French with English subtitles. (Psst! Check out the website for more fun events like the fashion show on Saturday the 21st!!)
Details

Festival: All American Tattoo Festival--$15 at the door/$30 for the weekend
Where: Sacramento Convention Center
When: 2pm-11pm (also Saturday, 11am-11pm & Sunday, 11am-7pm)
Why: Tattoo lovers unite! Tell all your ink loving friends to come over to the CC this weekend. There will be tattoo contests for prizes in addition to the artwork and music. Whether you’re a seasoned (or should I say fully decorated) tattoo lover or a novice, this is the place to find what you’re looking for. Even if you’re not much of a tattoo fan, you got to come if only to see George the Giant. He is himself a complete sideshow performance- known for his fire breathing, sword swallowing, glass walking stunts and many more, he is sure to entertain! Plus...the world wide debut of SHIGE a book by Horitaka from the Yellow Blaze Tattoo Studio in Japan.
Details

Kids & Families: Wet 'n Wild Family Night @ the Y! -- FREE
Where: Sacramento YMCA
When: 6pm-8pm
Why: Join the Sacramento Area YMCA for a free Wet n' Wild Family Night with musical guests, Prima! Bring your swimsuit, flip-flops & towel, there will be plenty of wet n' wild games including a fundraiser dunk tank! This is a free community event where everyone is welcome so don't forget to tell your family & friends! Jamba Juice and Yogurtagogo will also be on hand selling their tasty juices and yogurt to help beat the heat!
Details

Kids & Families: Disney Train Comes to Sacramento! -- $FREE
Where: California State Railroad Museum
When: 9am-7pm (also Saturday, 9am-7pm & Sunday, 9am-4pm)
Why: Bring your family and friends to Old Sacramento to see the Disney Train on the tracks near the California State Railroad Museum. Disney is pulling out all the whistle stops and taking its show on the road with a spectacular immersive and interactive 40-city train tour, including a 3D sneak peek of film footage from the upcoming movie “Disney’s A Christmas Carol.” Enjoy a snowy backdrop in June in Old Sacramento, complete with all of the sights and sounds of Christmas including carolers, decorations, giveaways and many more surprises. This Disney family event is for guests of all ages and is free to the public. Starring Jim Carrey and directed by Academy Award-winning filmmaker Robert Zemeckis, “Disney’s A Christmas Carol” opens in theatres November 6 in Disney Digital 3D and in IMAX 3D.
Details

Music: A Classic Rock Tribute with “ATB” -- $
Where: Double Tree Hotel
When: 8:30pm-11pm
Why: After the Beatles, music has never been the same. Or so believes ATB, which stands for After The Beatles. They are a classic rock tribute band keeping the Beatles alive by playing the music that the Beatles made, after the Beatles.
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Music: Les Claypool -- $25 adv/ $30 at door
Where: Radisson Hotel
When: 7:30pm
Why: Legendary Bassist from the popular band Primus. Back in their heyday (aka the 90’s), Les was recognized for his inventive, funky style. Advance tickets can be purchased at any Dimple Records store, The Beat and R5 Records.
Details

Saturday 6.20

Art: Stellar Studios’ Summer Solstice -- $FREE
Where: Stellar Studios (23rd & C St.)
When: 5pm-12am
Why: Celebrate Summer Solstice and support some local artists while you’re at it! Stellar will be featuring new work in glass, ceramics, metal & mixed media from all local artists. Get a glimpse into the future of art spaces. Also, it’s a great excuse to peruse and shop around with music & fire to compliment the atmosphere on the longest day of the year.
Details: http://sacramento365.com/event/detail/38873

Art/Class: Figure Drawing Marathon for Adults -- $65 ($45 for Crocker Members)
Where: Crocker Art Museum
When: 10:30am-4:30pm
Why: Back by popular demand! This workshop is for beginners and advanced students looking to learn or improve drawing skills. Draw from nude models while exploring the figure through warm-up exercises, gesture drawings and long poses. Note that this is an adult class! You must be 18 years or older. Drawing materials will be provided. Make sure you call to reserve your spot because reservations are required.
Details

Festival: 8th Annual Juneteenth Festival-- $FREE
Where: William Land Park
When: 11am-6pm (also Sunday, 11am-5pm)
Why: A Celebration of Freedom and the Emancipation Proclamation. What a way we’ve come! This is a two-day event featuring two stages of live musical entertainment, vendors, children's activities, spelling bee, fishing derby, The Juneteenth Educational Theater, essay/poster contests, theater, cultural dance performances, and more on Saturday! The Juneteenth Talent Show is probably the highlight of the event where local aspiring talent takes a stab at the stage. Nearly 8,000 people attend Juneteenth annually. On Sunday check out the 3rd annual Juneteenth Golf Tournament, the Juneteenth Gospel Extravaganza featuring Sacramento’s best gospel artists, food/ware vendors, and all kinds of children’s’ activities. Be there!
Details

Fundraiser: Round ‘em Up Barbeque -- $10 adults/ $5 kids
Where: Swanston Park
When: 3pm
Why: Grab the kids and head to the park for a family friendly BBQ! The Sacramento Children's Chorus will be performing an informal concert for entertainment. All of the proceeds for this event benefit the Sacramento Children’s Chorus. With all of the funding cuts happening with children’s programs, makes sense to support them in family fun ways such as these…
Details

Music: Pops in the Park Concert Series -- $FREE
Where: Bertha Henschel Park
When: 6pm-10pm
Why: This week is featuring the George Bruno Big Band. I don’t know much about the band- and couldn’t find any information on them other than they play at all kinds of family friendly events- but I do know that the Pops in The park Concerts are a great night out for families. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnic baskets and prepare to have some fun!
Details

Sunday 6.21 (Dad’s Day!)

Film: IMAX Father’s Day Package -- $Varies
Where: Esquire IMAX Theatre
When: 11am, 12:15, 1:15, 2:15 (Start Times)
Why: Take your Dad to see an IMAX show this weekend- or dad’s, take your kids out and save. In addition to the Stimulus Deal IMAX has been promoting, this Sunday Dad’s get in Free! You still need the receipt from a restaurant though. So the Stimulus Package Deal goes like this: Visit any Downtown/Midtown Sacramento Restaurant and spend $20…then bring your receipt to the Esquire IMAX Theatre and purchase any ticket to see Dinosaurs Alive 3D, Under The Sea 3D or African Adventure 3D for $5 or get a $5 discount off the full price admission ticket to Monsters vs. Aliens 3D, Star Trek, Night at the Museum: Battle of the Smithsonian or Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen. (Subject to availability) Up to 4 Tickets can be purchased with receipt.
Details

Music: Father’s Day BBQ Train -- $49 Adults/ $25 Kids (plus taxes & Service charge)
Where: Sacramento River Train
When: 11am
Why: Why not? When’s the last time you rode the train? This 3.5-hour trip includes a 28-mile train ride with a stop for a barbecue lunch at Elkhorn Park. The Sacramento River Train, which has three open-air cars and three enclosed air-conditioned coaches, operates between Woodland and West Sacramento.
Details

Keep in mind that all of these events and many more can can be found on Sacramento365.com, the year-round source for Sacramento events. If you have an event you would like to add to Sacramento365.com, visit the website. Its easy and free to add your events! Also, if you want to mention an event that I didn't squeeze into my little article- add it to the comments below! Have a great weekend!!