January 30, 2015 0

The Silence of Almodóvar: Crusade for women’s liberation.

By in GEFilms

Pedro AlmodovarFilm director, screenwriter, producer and former actor, Pedro Almodóvar doesn’t need introduction. He came to earn distinction as a filmmaker during La Movida Madrileña, a cultural renaissance that followed the death of Spanish dictator Francisco Franco. His first few films characterised the sense of sexual and political freedom of the period.

Now he’s picked his next feature film, Silencio (Silence). Nobody would recognise a silent Almodóvar, but one that screams out loud his opinions through his celebrated and passionate films such as The Skin I Live In, Talk To Her, Volver and All About My Mother.

The film, which is called Silence because that’s the principal element that drives the worst things that happen to the main female protagonist, it is set to begin shooting in April.

This time, the casting won’t include his usual suspects. Penelope Cruz or Antonio Banderas don’t quite fit the roles of this new movie that it is a return to the cinema of women. Read the rest of this entry »

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January 7, 2015 0

Some Time With… Alice Henley: “I really live and breathe acting. It’s my passion, it’s not a job it’s a vocation.”

By in Some Time With...

alica

Alice Henley’s career began at a young age, performing her first professional role at her early teens, when she played Phyllis in a stage adaptation of The Railway Children.

She studied at Royal Holloway and the Italia Conti Academy of Theatre Arts in London, where she co-created her own theatre company, Sweetfa, together with Frederica Dunstan, also an actress.

Alice acting credits include The Bill, Eastenders, Rock Rivals, My Almost Famous Family, Death in Paradise, Holby, DCI Banks and Father Brown, among others. You will remember her for her powerful role in the HBO hit Rome as Livia Drusilla, and you will also recognise her in the blockbuster thriller Eastern Promises, acting opposite Viggo Mortensen and Vincent Cassel.

But that is not all. Don’t be surprised if you recognise her voice in some of the cartoon characters for the British cartoon English Breakfast. We also can hear Alice’s voice-overs in commercials including Hugo Boss, Look Magazine or Pantene.

Talented and skilled at modern and contemporary dance, as well as horse riding and jumping, Alice Henley is represented by Lucia Pallaris at United Agents.

alice henleyQ You started acting in the theatre during your early teens. What inspired you at the time to be an actress?

A When I was seven my dad took me along to my local drama society to take part in their pantomime. I don’t think anyone knew at that point how much I would enjoy it and subsequently want to go for another 5 years! After that I was hooked and would take part in their summer play productions as well. It was when I turned 12 that I had the opportunity to audition for our local theatre’s (The Wolsey) professional production of The Railway Children and I was lucky enough to be cast as Phyllis. I was then encouraged by my drama teacher Mrs Leeder (she will definitely not be forgotten) to join my local youth theatre and I was a member for several years. So from then on I was certain that this is what I was meant to do, I loved every moment and went on to study drama right through to university.

Q What brought you to start your own theatre company, Sweetfa?

A I decided when I left sixth form that I wanted to go to university as oppose to drama school as I wanted to gain a broader understanding of the craft. At university I was able to study directing, writing, costume, set design and many more courses. However, with this advantage there was also the disadvantage of not having a showcase – this is essential. At drama school, when you graduate you have the opportunity to perform in front of agents and hopefully get signed. As this was not an option for me I had to find another way in. The only way to get an agent to sign you is for them to see you in something…. And the best place to be seen by agents is in London. So myself and fellow student and friend, Frederica Dunstan, knew we had to put on a play and invite agents to come ourselves. However, to put on a play in a theatre you have to be a registered theatre company, you can’t just turn up and ask to hire out the venue! So after about a year of organising the legality, fundraising, finding a director and writer who was willing to work with us on a profit share basis only we finally got ourselves on the boards on the west end! We just about broke even after a three-week run. I wrote to over 100 agents, only 1 turned up and thankfully they signed me. Read the rest of this entry »

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December 23, 2014 0

Shanghai, a landmark of cinema art

By in GEFilms

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Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Shanghai

Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom, Shanghai

Since the first movie was brought to Shanghai over a century ago, the city has been put on the map of the world’s cinematic history, having featured frequently in international blockbusters.

In movies, every city has its own “face”. In the case of Shanghai, it is represented by modern Lujiazui, the Bund, Shikumen buildings, graceful arching bridges and small waterways… Can’t help looking for the locations of your favourite movies? Shanghai offers a Movie tour to help you look for those landmarks. Ask for information at your nearest Office of Tourism when you get to Shanghai.

Avatar, Zhangjiajie National Park location

Avatar, Zhangjiajie National Park location

But not only Shanghai. Many other Chinese locations like Beijing, Jinzhong, Tianjin, Zhangjiajie, Hezhou and, of course, the Great Wall, among others, have been selected to be the unforgettable landscape of iconic movies like Avatar, 007: SkyFall, The Painted Veil, Kill Bill, Empire of the Sun, Armageddon, Rise of the Red Lantern, The Last Emperor, Mission Impossible 3 or the forever favourite Indiana Jones and The Temple of Doom.

If you happen to be in Shanghai or planning a trip soon, you can visit the Shanghai Film Museum. Here you will get a good picture of Shanghai’s cinematic industry, being an important window to the movie industry of Shanghai and China as a whole. The facilities contain four theme zones, a No. 5 Studio and one theatre.

Shanghai International Film Festival

The Shanghai International Film Festival, known as SIFF, is one of the largest and most important film events in East Asia. Its most prestigious award is known as the Jin Jue (“Golden Goblet”) for the best film. Read the rest of this entry »

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December 12, 2014 0

Exodus: Gods and Kings | Meet a member of the crew

By in GEFilms

Acclaimed director Ridley Scott (Gladiator, Prometheus) brings to the big screen the epic adventure Exodus: Gods and Kings, the story of one man’s daring courage to take on the might of an empire. Using state of the art visual effects and 3D immersion, Scott brings new life to the story of the defiant leader Moses (Christian Bale) as he rises up against the Egyptian Pharaoh Ramses (Joel Edgerton), setting 600,000 slaves on a monumental journey of escape from Egypt and its terrifying cycle of deadly plagues. The film is dedicated to Scott’s younger brother, Tony Scott, who committed suicide in 2012.

The production was set to begin in September 2013. The studio announced the casting calls in Spain’s Almería for 3,000 to 4,000 extras and with another 1,000 to 2,000 extras on the island of the Canary Islands. Additional filming was scheduled at Pinewood Studios, England.

We had access to one of the members of the crew, Carmen Fraile, a makeup artist that has been working in the film industry for the past 20 years, apart from commercials a Television work.

Carmen’s professional origins are in Spain, but she moved to Los Angeles to do her Masters in a prestigious Makeup and Special Effects School. When she finished her studies, she was recommended by one of her professors to work at one of the oldest special effects laboratories in Hollywood. There she worked with the crew that made movies like Alien: Resurrection and Dustin Hoffman’s Sphere. Her latest work includes Mr. Nice, The Dictator, The Counselor, Skyfall and Exodus: Gods and Kings. You can find out more about her work on her website www.makeup-artisty.com.

Q How was it working under the direction of Ridley Scott and with actors like Christian Bale?carmen perfil

A It is the second time that I have worked for a movie directed by Ridley Scott, the first time was at The Counselor. I think he is a very friendly person who loves Spain. He always tries to find locations in Spain. The actors are very discreet and professional. It is great working with them, as they appreciate your work.

Q Which part of the movie will be the most impressive for the public?

A I think it will be the battle. It is truly impressive. We filmed for days in Andalucia (Southern Spain) using a striking set. Also, during the scene when Moses opens the waters and walks through it followed by his entourage, the stuntmen had to wear neoprene suits under their costumes, as they had to walk under cold water topping their heads. It was also difficult to make the animals walk into the water, but it was spectacular to see how the manage to make these breathtaking scenes. The public will love it. Read the rest of this entry »

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December 3, 2014 0

Some Time With… Nani Jimenez: “When you research for a specific role you put your heart into it. At the end of the day it is you who will be exposed.”

By in Some Time With...

Nani Jimenez is a well known Spanish actress from Valencia, best known for La Alqueria Blanca, The Boarding School, Hospital Central, A Reflection of You and 0:00. She has also done some work as a model and she also writes a blog about fashion. You can read her here nanijimenez.com.

nani-jimenez4Q It has been a while since the series that made you popular came to an end. Do you miss playing your role in The Boarding School?

A I remember fondly my first acting roles, but I don’t miss it because I consider very important to evolve personally and professionally. I will always remember my role in La Alqueria Blanca, a local production from Valencia, my homeland. It was my first main role, and it was a lovely story that I will never forget.

Q What has it changed from those days?

A When it comes to prepare a new role, each experience you had gives you new challenges. I always try to keep the positive bits to face a new project.  Now I know what I want, and I know my priorities are my family, and to start a family of my own. When you have stability you can achieve whatever you want.

Q Your role as Zoraida in the popular Spanish series Isabel  is one of our favourites. How do you prepare yourself to play a historical role as passional as that one, where you became a convert muslim back in the medieval times? Read the rest of this entry »

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November 25, 2014 0

Dressing VIVIEN LEIGH | Fashion & Cinema Retrospective

By in GEFilms

vL

 

WHEN      5th to 7th of December

WHERE   Victoria and Albert Museum, Ham Yard Hotel and Ciné Lumière.

+ INFO     www.fashionandcinema.com

Fashion & Cinema is a series of events exploring the relationship between the two industries, featuring on-stage conversations, talks and screenings.

Considered one of the most beautiful actresses of her day, Vivien Leigh always took a keen interest in the way she was dressed in front of, and behind the camera. Always professional and a consummate actress, she collaborated in depth with costume designers in order to give the best possible performance of her character. Dressing Vivien Leigh will explore Vivien Leigh as an icon and the inspiration fashion and costume designers have drawn from her for decades.

PROGRAMME

Friday 5 December at the Victoria and Albert Museum

DRESSING VIVIEN LEIGH

Vivien Leigh was a brilliant collaborator with many major film costume designers, and many became close personal friends. Theatre & Performance Curator Keith Lodwick will discuss the important relationship between Vivien Leigh, the costumes she wore, the film directors, the costume designers and the character she played.

Victoria and Albert Museum, Gorvy Theatre | Fri 5 Dec | 6.30pm | £9, conc. £7 Read the rest of this entry »

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November 14, 2014 0

Some Time With… Ben Peel: “I have been blessed to have worked on both great films and television and have enjoyed both immensely.”

By in Some Time With...

ben-peel-profileNorthern Irish actor Ben Peel studied at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London, where he moved around 11 years ago from Belfast, and where he lives happily married with his wife and daughter.

He is well known for a number TV series like BBCNI hit 6 Degrees and also films, including the Steve McQueen’s multi-award winning feature film Hunger, BAFTA winner, Golden Camera Winner Cannes, and a total of 30 international awards.

Last year he played one of the main roles together with April Pearson (Skins) at Greg Zinger’s The Engagement, for GE Films. What’s next for Ben Peel.

Q What did make you go to drama school? Did you always know you wanted to be an actor?

A I think deep down I have always wanted to be an actor, but I went to an all boys school where there wasn’t a drama department. I went to a fantastic teacher outside of school called Gwyneth Murdock who encouraged me to go to drama school. She really believed in 3 years of working hard on learning the craft.

Q There isn’t much about you on the net. Are you keeping your distance from the media?

A There isn’t much on the Internet about me for a couple of reasons. One, I hate technology. I don’t have twitter or Facebook. And the second is just being a little lazy. It’s something I think I’m going to work on.

Q Most of your work is TV series related. Is that by choice? Do you enjoy more filming for television than movies or theatre?

A I don’t really have a preference in terms of the medium I work in. I have been blessed to have worked on both great films and television and have enjoyed both immensely. I haven’t done theatre in years, and although I still have an interest, my heart lies with TV and film.

Q Hunger was a super hit that won many awards. How does it feel to be part of something like that?

A Hunger was fantastic to be part of and an amazing first film for me to work in. It opened a lot of doors and was a great experience working with a director who has now made a huge impact in cinema.

Q Tell me about your latest project. What’s on the horizon for you?

A I have a few films coming out soon. Anti-Social, which is directed by Reg Traviss. A London crime drama we filmed in Budapest. A TV show on Channel 5 called Suspects, which is completely improvised and was great fun. I am currently filming episodes of Holby City for the BBC.

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October 27, 2014 0

Furious 7 Trailer launch on November 1

By in GEFilms

“Because of our fans, our saga has grown bigger and better with every chapter,” reads the launch post on the Fast & Furious Facebook page. “We have set out to make the very best movie yet. We are excited to continue our journey together.”

Universal Studios will release the trailer The Road to Furious 7: Trailer Launch Event at Universal Studios in Los Angeles on the 1st of November. Limited tickets are on sale until the 27th of October. For those not so lucky to get seats, the event will be live streamed exclusively on the Fast & Furious official Facebook page, as well as on the E! network.

Cast leads Vin Diesel, Dwayne Johnson, and Paul Walker return for the action-thriller sequel, as well as other Fast & Furious favorites such as Michelle Rodriguez, Chris “Ludacris” Bridges, and Tyrese Gibson. Some new faces such as Jason Statham, Djimon Hounsou, Tony Jaa, Ronda Rousey, and Kurt Russell will debut in the franchise for the James Wan-directed feature.

Furious 7 will premiere on the 3rd of April 2015 after being delayed a year due to Paul Walker’s unfortunate death, ironically on a car accident. Writer Chris Morgan used the delay to modify the script in order to gracefully retire Walker’s character from the saga. The remainder of the Brian O’Conner’s scenes will be completed with the help from his two brothers, Caleb and Cody Walker, and CGI technology.

 

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October 21, 2014 0

One Script Writer. One Actor. One Comedian. One Musician. One Director. One Play Writer. One Woody Allen.

By in GEFilms

Woody Allen has proved his innumerable skills as a film maker. But did you know that he also plays clarinet in some small venues in Manhattan? Or that his first jokes published as a young comedian paid as much as his parents wages together? Read the 15 things you didn’t know about Woody Allen at www.gefilms.net.

1. Woody Allen revealed to the media that he hates all his films, but does like some of the individual scenes. Read the rest of this entry »

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September 19, 2014 0

248 films. 17 venues. 12 days. BFI London Film Festival to open this season with The Imitation Game | 8th October

By in GEFilms

BFI London Film Festival from 8th – 19th October 2014

Full programme https://whatson.bfi.org.uk/lff/Online/

The 58th BFI London Film Festival announced that this year’s Opening Night film will be The Imitation Game. Merging potent drama with nail-biting suspense. The life of Alan Turing, the codebreaker who helped turn the tide of WWII yet was demonised following it, is explored in this stunning drama.

Director:  Morten Tyldum
Producers:  Nora Grossman, Ido Ostrowsky, Teddy Schwarzman
Screenwriter:  Graham Moore
With Benedict Cumberbatch, Keira Knightley, Matthew Goode, Mark Strong, Charles Dance
UK-USA 2014
114 mins

Opening Night around the UK

Audiences around the UK will have the exclusive chance to see the Opening Night red carpet footage and interviews with the film’s creators beamed live by satellite into their local cinema and followed by a screening of The Imitation Game. Check the BFI website for booking dates and participating venues. Read the rest of this entry »

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