International Wrestling Syndicate: Last Show Ever! TODAY! Club Soda/Montreal

I saw my first IWS show in 2001 and it made such an impression that I wrote 10, 000 words about it. To give you an idea how accurate a wrestling reporter I was, I identified the IWS DJ as a girl when it was really an Italian with long hair (DJ Stab Tony).

I started writing FOR the IWS in January 2003. It's been quite a ride for 7 years.

I have been time-keeper, publicist, writer, camera-man, commentator and ring announcer. I rang the bell at ECW Arena. I helped Sid Vicious paint a midget. I have talked backstage with PCO, Chris Daniels, Christian, Sabu, Mike Quackenbush, Larry Sweeney, Eddie Kingston, the Dudleys and Kevin Nash amongst many others.

I wrote stuff that somehow got Quebec wrestlers booked on three continents. I (somewhat inadvertently) helped create a character - El Generico - known around the world. I also wrote stuff that was misquoted to terrifying effect in newspapers across Canada.

I helped book shows with results so mind-blowing that David Meltzer woke his Quebec correspondent at 3AM because he thought the results were a practical joke. I helped book shows, matches and feuds that were voted the best in Quebec not just once but year after year.

It's been an incredibly opportunity and I am proud of every second of it. For the past 9 years I have told anyone who would listen that the IWS wrestlers are as good as any wrestlers in the world. It was easy to be convincing - it happened to be true.

None of it would be possible without Manny, the most frustrating, annoying, aggravating boss that I have ever had. Also possibly the most brilliant. Manny is easily the most underestimated promoter that Quebec has ever had.

He drives me crazy, but when I was sick with diabetic hypoglycemia, half out of mind from blood-sugar intoxication, the guy that I called for help first was Manny. I didn't need to call anyone else.

I am proud to call him my friend and tonight one last time Manny and I and all the other IWS lunatics - we will try and give Montreal the best, craziest, bloodiest, most intense wrestling show that it has ever seen. I am betting we will - once again - succeed.

I hope to see you there.

*****

Last news from the show:

After weeks of skimming through the credentials of talent looking to take part in the Canadian Open to challenge Shayne Hawke for his IWS Canadian Championship, the field HAS been set. As previously announced are the quick and powerful Alex Silva, the spectacular "Speedball" Mike Bailey and a former Canadian Champion in his own right, Kid Kamikaze. The IWS is pleased to announce that the final two spots in this match have been filled by two very qualified competitors.

The first of which is a man who held the Canadian Title on his last night in the company in the Summer of 2008. Challenger number five will be none other than the returning "CANADIAN DYNAMITE" MAX BOYER! Boyer has made it clear to IWS management that he is coming to Club Soda on Saturday night to reclaim the title he lost over two years ago.

The sixth and final challenger in this important Canadian Open match has also been confirmed. Make no mistake, this sixth challenger is nothing short of awesome. IWS has promised surprises for it's Last Show Ever, so to find out who this mystery challenger is, be there Saturday night at Club Soda!

The match has been made official, the Canadian Open will feature Shayne Hawke(c) vs Alex Silva vs "Speedball" Mike Bailey vs Kid Kamikaze vs "Canadian Dynamite" Max Boyer vs A Mystery Challenger in a match held under elimination and scramble rules! And do not forget, the special guest referee for this contest will be Don Paysan!

In addition to this, one cannot forget the spectacular card that has been signed for IWS' Last Show Ever!

- 2.0(Jagged & Shane Matthews) vs The Super Smash Brothers(Player Uno & Stupefied)
Jagged and Shane Matthews laid out the challenge two weeks ago and it HAS been accepted. This two year feud which carries on to this very day and that has spanned over many cities and countries will come to a head this Saturday night as both teams look for the win in what many say might very well be the most important match in this storied feud's history.

- Fred "La Merveille" Lauzon has laid out the challenge for Beef Wellington
The challenge was extended many days ago by Fred "La Merveille" and it has YET to be accepted. If Beef Wellington in fact does accept, we once again ask the question - WHICH Beef Wellington will be on hand at IWS' Last Show Ever? Despite that fact, if this challenge is accepted, no matter which Beef is in action that night, Fred "La Merveille" Lauzon will be in trouble as Beef has never been one to underestimate.

- "MVP" Michael Von Payton vs Twiggy
The talented, yet bitter Ontario veteran, "MVP" Michael Von Payton has made it VERY clear to IWS fans, IWS management and especially to current IWS Tag Team Champion, Twiggy whom he attacked two weeks ago that he is invading Club Soda to ruin the night and spit on the legacy that is the International Wrestling Syndicate. Feeling snubbed through out the years, MVP will have enough gasoline to fuel his fire of hatred but as we know, Twiggy will likely be living on a prayer this Saturday night as he walks in defending the IWS in this grudge match.

- Christopher Bishop vs Lionel Knight
Former IWS superstars return to clash in what will most definitely prove to be a high flying, exciting and action packed contest! This former tag team turned foes will look to bring the fans to their feet as they did five years ago during their debut. This match will NOT be one to miss and is truly one of the special attractions of the evening.

- The Green Phantom defends his IWS Championship vs "Triple X" Sexxxy Eddy vs The Arsenal vs PCP Crazy FN Manny in a FANS BRING THE WEAPONS MATCH!
These four men who had a huge hand in creating the IWS' legacy over the past eleven years their blood, sweat and tears will undoubtedly be looking to put it all one the one more time as they look to be the IWS Champion on this historic night. Former IWS Champion, The Arsenal makes his in ring return after a five year absence and this always dangerous indevidual most likely has not lost a step in his devious ways.

Former, multi time IWS Champion, Sexxxy Eddy will look to add yet another championship to his large resume as he walks into this Fans Bring The Weapons match as an odds on favourite to win.

In what will prove to be his final pro wrestling match, the Montreal cult icon, PCP Crazy FN Manny has his eye set on adding a third IWS Championship to his history as he walks into the ring for this final time.

Last but not least is the man who has the biggest target on his back of the four, current IWS Champion, The Green Phantom. All three challengers will be looking to do as much damage as they can to the title holder but the Hardcore Hero is not one to back down as he is one of the most dangerous men in IWS history who will definitely have a few extreme tricks up his sleeve this Saturday night in order to keep his championship.

In additional to all of this, before bell time, the IWS will be presenting a very special edition of Bloodstream featuring the wrestlers in action that night as well as appearences from "Mr.Wrestling" Kevin Steen and El Generico.

Fans, we can not stress this enough. PLEASE get your tickets now to attend this historic one night engagement. After eleven years, the IWS will be shutting it's doors Saturday night at the beautiful Club Soda in Montreal. To reserve tickets NOW, please PM this account. This is the CANT MISS event of the year in Montreal. Be on hand for the action as well as MANY surprises!

See you at the matches!

Last Update for IWS LAST SHOW EVER (Saturday Club Soda Montreal)

Last Update for IWS LAST SHOW EVER (Saturday Club Soda Montreal)

Some last minute update with my comments:

First and foremost, it is with extreme regret that we must announce that due to circumstances beyond the IWS' control, Pierre Carl Ouellet will not be in action this Saturday night. Despite this unfortunate news, the International Wrestling Syndicate is 100% committed to delivering the fans in attendance that night an action packed evening that will not be forgotten.

The IWS would like to apologize for this inconvenience.

With that being said, the IWS would like to make up to the fans who plan to attend the festivities this Saturday night by signing a brand NEW match! A contest that will feature the return of two superstars of the past. In what will prove to most definitely be an exciting and action packed affair, former IWS Canadian Champion, CHRISTOPHER BISHOP will take on long time foe as well as tag team partner, LIONEL KNIGHT. Both of these men who broke into the IWS in July of 2005 and instantly captured the attention of the fans as high flying and death defying athletes will surely look to bring that same type of atmosphere to the ring at IWS' Last Show Ever!

With only days left until IWS presents it's Last Show Ever, management is looking at ALL applicants who hope to take part in the Canadian Open for the IWS Canadian Title. With that beind said, one special decision has been made. A match with such important implications needs to most definitely be called down the middle. Who better to call a match of such importance than a man who knows what it is like to hold the IWS Canadian Title?

With that being said, the IWS is happy to announce that this Saturday night, former IWS Canadian Champion DON PAYSAN has been appointed as the SPECIAL GUEST REFEREE for the Canadian Open! Don Paysan, who retired from wrestling some months ago made it extremely clear that while he could not be in competitive action at Club Soda, he wanted to be a part of this historical night in some capacity. He will now have the difficult job of officiating the madness that will ensue in the Canadian Open.

In addition to all of this news, lets review what has ALREADY been announced for this Saturday night at Club Soda.

Jagged and Shane Matthews, 2.0 take on long time rivals, Player Uno & Stupefied, The Super Smash Brothers.

Shayne Hawke will defend his IWS Canadian Championship in a Canadian Open featuring challengers, Alex Silva, Kid Kamikaze and "Speedball" Mike Bailey as well as others to be signed.

Fred "La Merveille" Lauzon has issued the challenge to Beef Wellington. The question begs, will Beef Wellington accept?

"MVP" Michael Von Payton looks to invade the Last Show Ever to ruin the night and legacy of the IWS. In his way is the air guitar hero, Twiggy.

In the main event of the evening, The Green Phantom puts his IWS Championship on the line against challengers, The Arsenal, "Triple X" Sexxxy Eddy and PCP Crazy Manny in a FANS BRING THE WEAPONS MATCH.

ALL of this including Franky The Mobster, the return of "Canadian Dynamite" Max Boyer as well as many surprises!

PCO not being there is really unfortunate, but Chris Bishop and Lionel Knight coming is a great surprise.

I remember when we booked Chris Bishop in our Extreme Dream tournament to crown our first Canadian Champion. It was largely as a favour to Ontario's UWA promotion and we had no expectations. Bishop blew away everyone in the building in the most impressive debut match I have ever seen. A month later he was our first Canadian champion.

While Chris Bishop was immediately rated as a great wrestler, Lionel Knight never really got the break that his skills deserve. Lionel's best chance at success in the IWS was a run at the IWS Tag Team Titles with Bishop as his partner. In fact, at one point, Checkmate (Knight & Bishop) had a non-title win against the IWS Tag champions and were poised to win the belts. Unfortunately a drunk driver ran Chris Bishop off the road and Checkmate never got back their lost shot at the belts.

I am not sure if Knight has ever really forgiven Bishop for costing Lionel his best shot at IWS glory.

My phone has been ringing off the hook all day for tickets. If you want a good seat be prepared to line up by Soda early! I hope to see you for one last showcase of IWS insanity.

International Wrestling Syndicate: Last Show Ever!

International Wrestling Syndicate: Last Show Ever!

This Saturday the IWS has its last show ever.

Why our last show? There are a bunch of reasons depending on who you ask. For me, the difficulty of booking venues in Montreal was the last straw. If you have spent anytime in downtown Montreal in the "Quartier de Spectacles de Construction" it should be fairly obvious why booking venues has become so difficult. Our longtime downtown home the Medley shutting down in December 2010 was the writing on the wall.

No one can deny that the IWS leaves an amazing legacy - a ton of things for us to be proud of. The first Canadian promotion with its own Pay-per-View; the first Canadian promotion to put on a show in the ECW Arena; the promotion where the El Generico character was born; the promotion that helped launch Kevin Steen to the world; the Canadian promotion that set and broke records for most light-tubes used in a match; the promotion where Sid Vicious returned to active wrestling from his horrific WCW leg injury; the last indy promotion that Sabu performed in before appearing on RAW in the ECW launch; the promotion where Kevin Nash and Pierre Carl Ouellet resolved the feud that started with a shoot-fight in Montreal while they were both in the WWF... and most importantly, since 2003 every time we did a show downtown is was immediately hailed as the Quebec show of the year.

And this Saturday, we are doing one last balls-to-the-walls go-for-broke downtown Montreal show. Cause if we are going out, we are going out with our heads held high (though possibly a little bit bloodied.)

And in the Main Event, we will be doing the most violent match in Wrestling history, the match that we made infamous in Quebec: FANS BRING THE WEAPONS!

Just to clarify for those that have questions: no guns, no knives, otherwise you bring it and we use it. Be prepared for total insanity!

 *****

Here is what you need to know:

The show is All Ages.
Tiskets are $25.
If you don't want to pay service charges, I have a few tickets left, but they are going fast.
The doors open at 8PM. The show starts at 9PM.
Downtown is a MESS. The easiest way to get to Club Soda (1225 Saint Laurent) is to go to Metro Saint Laurent and walk south a block.
You can contact me at Llakor@hotmail.com for tickets.

*****

We have been pushing out news on Facebook on the event.

Here is some of that news with my comments:

The IWS has promised many surprises for it's last show ever and we plan to deliver. So how is this for a starter? Following a two year plus absence from the squared circle, on Saturday, October 9'th live from Club Soda in downtown, Montreal, CANADIAN DYNAMITE is back.

The International Wrestling Syndicate is PROUD to announce the wrestling return of MAX BOYER!

Following the announcement of the the IWS's final show, a block buster signing was made for October 9'th when the call was put into Max Boyer. The man who graced the IWS ring with his brand of mat-based technical wrestling along with his aggressive nature responded simply with "I can't say no to that offer".

After quietly leaving the wrestling industry in May of 2008, the former IWS Canadian Champion returns for this very special engagement at Club Soda. Boyer was quoted as saying "This may be my very last chance to say thank you to the IWS and to the fans."

Max Boyer is awesome. This may be your only chance to see him wrestle ever again. Take advantage.

On October 9'th, a former three time WWE Tag Team Champion, former WCW Hardcore Champion and former IWS Champion will be on hand. A man that has run roughshod over any one that has been placed in his path over the past seven years of his IWS career, most recently including Kevin Nash. A man that can be summed up with one phrase - LOOK AT THE SHAPE.

"PCO" Pierre Carl Ouellet WILL be in action on October 9'th as IWS celebrates it's Last Show Ever at Club Soda. Debuting in August of 2003, PCO wasted no time climbing the ladder on his way to claiming the IWS Championship in January of 2004. In that time, he reestablished himself as a force to be reckoned with in the Quebec wrestling scene. The man notorious for nearly decapitating opponents with his signature "Peece Liner" clothesline will most definitely look to hand out more than a few on October 9'th.

PCO is the most professional wrestler I have ever met. Generous with his time, generous with his experience, he wrestles every match like it will be his last opportunity to please his fans.

In addition to names of the past, many of your favourite current IWS superstars will be appearing in action at IWS' Last Show Ever. Here is a closer look at some of those scheduled to compete on October 9'th at Club Soda.

Firstly, a man who has never ever been at a loss for words, the always entertaining FRED "LA MERVEILLE" LAUZON. After making his debut in November of 2002, Fred "La Merveille" went on to form what many callthe most powerful faction in IWS history, The SLI as well as it's second incarnation, The SLI - USA. Without question, Lauzon will look to bring his....well, lets just say, INTERESTING style of wrestling into play on October 9'th.

Despite being a relative new comer, this man has done more than enough to impress IWS officials to earn his spot on the Last Show Ever. "SPEEDBALL" MIKE BAILEY will without a doubt look to make a final lasting impression on the hardcore soliders in attendance that night with his exciting acrobatic skills.

Last, but certainly not least, the IWS Canadian Title WILL be up for grabs that night as current champion, SHAYNE HAWKE puts the title on the line. Following his debut in March of 2005, Hawke wasted no time climbing the ladder on his way to IWS glory. He reached his most celebrated moment in February of 2009 when he defeated Excess in the culmination of their almost year long feud to capture the IWS Canadian Title.

Fred la Merveille's SLI group was the best gang in IWS history and one of the best in Quebec wrestling history. Speedball Bailey is one of the best young wrestlers in Quebec. Shayne Hawke is one of the most intense wrestlers in the history of the IWS.

In the past four weeks, many of the IWS' past superstars have been announced. Lets not forget the fact that many former IWS title holders have also been announced. When IWS's presents it's Last Show Ever, the following two individuals can boast BOTH of those honors.

The IWS is extremely happy to announce that former IWS Tag Team Champions, PLAYER UNO and STUPEFIED, otherwise known as The Super Smash Brothers WILL be in the house! The exciting duo will undoubtedly look to bring their unique brand of fast paced, high flying and exciting action to the fans in attendance.

But for The Super Smash Brothers, an easy road is anything BUT what is ahead of them. On October 9'th, live from Club Soda, Player Uno & Stupefied will face long time rivals SHANE MATTHEWS and JAGGED, 2.0! These two teams have traded wins within Quebec, Ontario & the United States of America for the better part of the past three years and at IWS' Last Show Ever, this feud will be intensified with this ever important win at stake.

Follow the link to hear from Jagged & Shane Matthews, 2.0. The Niagara Falls natives have some interesting words for thier opponents on October 9'th, The Super Smash Brothers.

http://www.facebook.com/l/f0d0c-C2r4e8vMGtNI0yEIGgk8Q;www.youtube.com/watch?v=xyYZCFWK0vw.

In this special Bloodstream Exclusive, Player Uno and Stupefied respond to 2.0's challenge in interesting fashion. Follow the link to hear their thoughts.

http://www.facebook.com/l/35dc5lwAXvWysTRQ3uBb8YU8xkQ;www.youtube.com/watch?v=HtpLhwsMuws

The Super Smash Brothers and 2.0 are nothing less than two of the best tag teams ever to come out of Quebec.

As previously mentioned last week, IWS Canadian Champion, Shayne Hawke will be in action on October 9'th at Club Soda, and we are happy to announce that the title WILL be on the line that evening. In hopes to deliver the fans in attendance exciting action, the match will not be held under a normal one on one format. At IWS' Last Show Ever, the Canadian Title will be defended in a multi-man CANADIAN OPEN match. For those unfamiliar to the Canadian Open, the rules are simple. The match is held under a scramble format and once one competitor has been pinned, he is then eliminated and must return to the back. As of today, the first two challengers to Hawke's Canadian Title have been selected to take part in the Canadian Open. These two challengers are none other than ALEX SILVA and "SPEEDBALL" MIKE BAILEY. Both of these young athletes will be looking to make their mark on October 9'th as they attempt to take the Canadian Title away from Shayne Hawke.

Alex Silva is a gorilla. He has all the potential in the world and enough anger to fill a dozen anger management classes. 

Over the past two years, IWS fans have seen a drastic change in Beef Wellington. In the past, Beef Wellington was a competitor who brought smiles and laughs to the IWS faithful. But in 2008, Beef had a change of heart. He had made it extremely clear that he had developed feelings of disdain for the IWS audience. Citing that they were only at shows to befriend the wrestlers in action and no longer to support a company that he had poured his blood, sweat and tears into.

Despite the change of going from fan favourite to a to a favourite of fans to hate, this change brought Beef Wellington to the top of the IWS mountain. In January of 2009, Beef Wellington defeated "Mr.Wrestling" Kevin Steen to win the IWS Championship(which he held until April of 2010).

In the weeks leading up to IWS' Last Show Ever, rumors have circulated within the company about which Beef Wellington will be present at Club Soda that night. Will it be the Beef that took pride in being one of the most charismatic figures in the IWS' history or will it be the Beef that no longer wanted to entertain the fans and was only out for himself.

There was a period where the only thing that kept the IWS alive was Beef's passion, but others took advantage of Beef's passion and blocked him from even competing for the IWS title. Winning that title became Beef's only goal and it consumed Beef to the point that by the time Beef finally won the title, he had essentially lost his soul. The last time we had a show, the Green Phantom beat Beef for the gold and I wonder if that loss brough Beef back to his senses or further embittered him.

While recently catching up with IWS cameras for his thoughts on IWS' Last Show Ever, Twiggy was blindsided and beaten to the ground. The interesting part in all of this was that he wasn't attacked by anyone currently on the IWS roster. He wasn't even attacked by anyone from the past scheduled to be at Club Soda on October 9'th.

For further explanation, check out this special Bloodstream Exclusive.

http://www.facebook.com/l/ead4aeYjrlScMryya6ld9eL84zw;www.youtube.com/watch?v=UCtca9SRHFU

The Air Guitar Hero was attacked by the well known veteran of the Ontario wrestling scene, "MVP" Michael Von Payton. Michael Von Payton delivered a vicious beating to Twiggy and then proceeded to hijack the IWS cameras. He went into detail about his distain for the IWS, but especially for Twiggy. Citing that it was because of professional wrestlers like Twiggy, that he never got a fair chance to compete in the IWS. MVP then went onto claim he would invade IWS' Last Show Ever to ruin the night of Twiggy, the IWS and the fans in attendance that night.

IWS management looking at this situation very carefully and plan to come to a decision on which actions will be taken come October 9'th.

In addition to all of this, a fourth man has been added to the Canadian Open match for the IWS Canadian Title at IWS' Last Show Ever. A man that is no stranger to holding IWS gold, especially the Canadian Title. Making, what he hopes will be a triumphant return to the IWS on October 9'th will be none other than "The Best Around", KID KAMIKAZE.

After leaving the IWS in 2008, the former champion, Kid Kamikaze is looking to make his mark on IWS' final night as he joins the field of challengers which include "Speedball" Mike Bailey and Alex Silva who look to dethrone Shayne Hawke as IWS Canadian Champion!

MVP is a huge asshole and I say this as a man deeply in love lust with MVP's wife, Misty Haven. Twiggy and MVP tore the house down in a match in Ottawa for the C*4 promotion and I expect them to do nothing less on Saturday.

Kid Kamikaze being in the Canadian Open is great news. He, very quietly, has been the glue that keeps scramble matches from flying into total anarchy for many years in the IWS.

Fred "La Merveille" Lauzon can be summed up in one word. That word would be "Interesting". From his interesting ways of communication. To his interesting sense of humor. His interesting sense of fashion and finally, his interesting style of wrestling. Fred "La Merveille" is simply an interesting man. So it comes to no one's surprise that Fred "La Merveille" has made a very interesting challenge for this Saturday night at IWS' Last Show Ever.

Over the past few days, Fred "La Merveille" has been leaving insane message after insane message DEMANDING that he faces off against an old foe at Club Soda. Fred has claimed to have been embarrassed by this man over the years on more than one occassion. In more than one country to be exact. Fred "La Merveille" Lauzon has demanded to face off against none other than BEEF WELLINGTON.

As we stated last week, many rumors have been circulating about WHICH Beef Wellington will be on hand for IWS' Last Show Ever. If this challenge is accepted, will we see the Beef Wellington who has had his fair share of entertaining matches with Fred "Le Merveille? Or will we see the Beef Wellington of recent years who would look to joyfully gouge out the eyes of Fred? . As stated last week, this all remains to be seen on October 9'th.

In addition to all of this, one cannot forget the blockbuster main event that is set to take place this Saturday night. The current reigning and defending IWS Champion, THE GREEN PHANTOM is set to take on all challengers for his championship that night. Those challengers include "TRIPLE X" SEXXXY EDDY, "THE ONE MAN WAR" THE ARSENAL and in what will be his final match, PCP CRAZY F'N MANNY. The only thing standing in the way of these men and the IWS Championship will be a sea of weapons built to destroy. Built by the fans in attendance that night as this match will be held under FANS BRING THE WEAPONS rules!

The Arsenal is my (distant) cousin and an IWS legend. Sexxxy Eddy is a death-match legend for wrestling in the most dangerous environments wearing nothing but a Speedo. The Green Phantom is the IWS Hardcore Hero for coming up big in matches just like this. And Manny, Manny is a sick, crazed fuck who will be putting his life on the line.

*****

This Saturday, in Montreal will be your last chance to see the IWS live and experience the craziest show in professional wrestling and the promotion that year after year has brought Quebec (and Canada) the best wrestling shows of the year.

Press Coverage of the 2010 YoungCuts Film Festival

Press Coverage of the 2010 YoungCuts Film Festival

Bill Brownstein, columnist for the Montreal Gazette,
Bursts of humour and pathos at YoungCuts film fest

...though one might expect the Best of the Fest offerings to be top-heavy with razzmatazz special effects and blaring sound-scores, it could come as something of a revelation that the youthful filmmakers have mostly opted for traditional themes in traditional live-action and animation genres.

Elizabeth Johnston, RoverArts.com, Hail To The Up And Comers

Justin Trudeau will open this year’s YoungCuts Film Festival. That’s a measure of how far this festival, showcasing films from young, up and coming auteurs, has come. Trudeau’s talk this afternoon kicks off the 8th annual festival.

Our Sponsors:

YoungCuts Film Festival Awards (Full List)

YoungCuts Film Festival Awards (Full List)

The YoungCuts Film Festival presented awards Friday & Saturday during the screenings for:
Best Film,
Best Canadian Film,
Best Quebec Film,
Best Director,
Best Cinematographer,
Best Editor,
Best Acting,
Best Teen Film,
Best Short Short,
Best Animated Film,
Best Music Video and
Best Documentary.

Here are the nominees and the winners:

MyFilmmaker.com Award for Best Film
Winner: Piano Fingers by Nicholas Carmen 

Nominees: Rhonda's Party by Ashley McKenzie
Valerie Cadieux Auditionne by Marie-Eve Beaumont and Guillaume Lambert
Cetvrtak (Thursday) by Nikola Ljuca
Shade of Grey by Miles Robinson

Tribute Award for Best Canadian Film
Winner: Rhonda's Party by Ashley MacKenzie

Nominees: Shade of Grey by Miles Robinson
Valerie Cadieux Auditionne by Marie-Eve Beaumont and Guillaume Lambert
Chroma by Colin Racicot

En Primeur Award for Best Quebec Film
Winner: Valerie Cadieux Auditionne by Marie-Eve Beaumont and Guillaume Lambert
 
Nominees: The Inkwell Shuffle by Christopher Diaz
Chroma by Colin Racicot
Comment Se Noie Un Legende by Mirek Hamet
La Tonsure by Marie Pier Ottawa
Thunderstrike by Eric Angelillo

YoungCuts Award for Best Director
Winner: Piano Fingers by Nicholas Carmen

Nominees: Rhonda's Party by Ashley McKenzie
Valerie Cadieux Auditionne by Marie-Eve Beaumont and Guillaume Lambert
Cetvrtak (Thursday) by Nikola Ljuca
Royalty Free by Mike Bernstein

24 Heures Award for Best Editing
Winner: 3-Iron by Matt Kazman - Editor Matt Kazman

Nominees: Royalty Free by Mike Bernstein - Editor Michael Bernstein

Valerie Cadieux Auditionne by Marie-Eve Beaumont and Guillaume Lambert - Editor Jerome Cloutier and Alexandre Leblanc

The Real Deal by Taylor Jane Sella - Editor: Ericka Concha
Empire City by David MacDonald - Editor: David MacDonald

Mirror Award for Best Cinematography 
Winner: Cetvrtak (Thursday) by Nikola Ljuca - Cinematography by Maja Radosevic

Nominees: Piano Fingers by Nicholas Carmen - Cinematography by Christophe Lanzenberg
Rhonda's Party by Ashley McKenzie - Cinematography by Becky Parsons
3-Iron by Matt Kazman - Cinematography by Seth Hagenstein
Royalty Free by Mike Bernstein - Cinematography by Allen Liu

YoungCuts Award for Best Acting
Winner: Cetrvak (Thursday) by Nikola Ljuca - Cast: Milan Maric, Milica Gojkovic, Marija Opsenica and Filip Zarkovic

Nominees: Royalty Free by Mike Bernstein - lead actor Raymond Cham Jr.

Mia by Tamara Small - in the role of Mia, Zoe Hooper
Long Live the Duke by Matt Brailey - in the role of Charlie, Austin Mensch

Oasis HD Award for Best Documentary Film
Winner: Shade of Grey by Miles Robinson

Nominees: La Khaima: The Tent of Mile-End by Adam Shamash
Chienne de Vie by Soffie Mallet
Pretty Little Bits by Marie-Saroja Ponnambalam
The Sweet Science, The Boss by Evan Chan

Virgin96 Award for Best Short Short Film
Winner: How to Be More Average by Charlotte Hamlyn    

Nominees: Mbegu by Paul Plett
La Tonsure by Marie Pier Ottawa
For Your Convenience by Chas Fisher
Pigmalion by Juan Reidinger
One Man's Walk by Kenneth & Nicholas Mitchell

MyFilmmaker.com Award for Best Teen Film
Winner: Full Count by Patrick Collier

Nominees: Blood Job by Wayne Robinson
Winter's Wind by Trishia Hazelwood
The Stand by Olivia Chuba
Echomotion by Bret Kerven

Prisme Technologies Award for Best Animated Film
Winner: Eclipse by Liat Koren

Nominees: Orbit by Terrence Dankowych
Vaseline and Pepper by Fraser Munden
Walt by Greg Yagolnitzer
The Inkwell Shuffle by Christopher Diaz
Thunderstrike by Eric Angelillo

Virgin96 Award for Best Music Video
Winner: Thunderstrike by Eric Angelillo   

Nominees: Animal by Skyler Proctor
Ain't That the Way by Matt Paley
Hotspur: Heads/Tails by Josh Eisenberg
From the Second Chair by Darol Michael Carr


Congratulations to all the filmmakers and we look forward to seeing your next film for the 2011 YoungCuts Film Festival!

YoungCuts Film Festival Awards (Partial List)

YoungCuts Film Festival Awards (Partial List)

The YoungCuts Film Festival presented awards Friday during the screenings for:
Best Teen Film,
Best Short Short,
Best Animated Film
and
Best Documentary.






Here are the nominees and the winners:

Oasis HD Award for Best Documentary Film0
Winner: Shade of Grey by Miles Robinson

Nominees: La Khaima: The Tent of Mile-End by Adam Shamash
Chienne de Vie by Soffie Mallet
Pretty Little Bits by Marie-Saroja Ponnambalam
The Sweet Science, The Boss by Evan Chan

Virgin96 Award for Best Short Short Film
Winner: How to be More Average by Charlotte Hamlyn    

Nominees: Mbegu by Paul Plett
La Tonsure by Marie Pier Ottawa
For Your Convenience by Chas Fisher
Pigmalion by Juan Reidinger
One Man's Walk by Kenneth & Nicholas Mitchell

MyFilmmaker.com Award for Best Teen Film
Winner: Full Count by Patrick Collier

Nominees: Blood Job by Wayne Robinson
Winter's Wind by Trishia Hazelwood
The Stand by Olivia Chuba
Echomotion by Bret Kerven

Prisme Technologies Award for Best Animated Film
Winner: Eclipse by Liat Koren

Nominees: Orbit by Terrence Dankowych
Vaseline and Pepper by Fraser Munden
Walt by Greg Yagolnitzer
The Inkwell Shuffle by Christopher Diaz
Thunderstrike by Eric Angelillo

YoungCuts Film Festival starts this Thursday!

The YoungCuts Film Festival starts this Thursday, September 23rd!

The Festival kicks off with the Opening Party at Salon Officiel (351 Roy Est) 8PM on Thursday.

On Friday, September 24th at 1PM, our Honorary Chairman Justin Trudeau launches our screenings at Cinema du Parc (3575 Parc) with a FREE lecture and screening hosted by Manon Barbeau of Wapikoni Mobile. (To attend the FREE screening please register with us in advance at 514.285.4591)

Remember tickets for the Festival are $7.50 or 10 for $50.00 purchased in advance from the Festival web-site.

You can download the full Program Book HERE

You can download just the Festival schedule HERE

You can watch the Festival trailer HERE

2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Trailer

Trailer for the 2010 YoungCuts Film Festival YoungCutsFilmFest.com "Great Short Films by the World's Best Young Filmmakers 25 and under"

September 23-25 in Montreal
Opening Party Thursday, September 23rd at Salon Officiel 351 Roy Est

Screenings Sept 24 & 25 at Cinema du Parc 3575 Parc

Thanks to Andrew de Freitas and Francois Laurent for editing the trailer.

Inside Trailer (2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Official Selection)

Inside Trailer (2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Official Selection)



Director: Yaz Rabadi

Synopsis: Haunted by inner-demons from his past, John finds himself plagued with violent fantasies that consume him and slowly begin seeping their way into his reality.

Longer Synopsis: Inside is a character portrait that examines a day in the life of a man who has become uncomfortable within his own skin. Despite having everything one could ask for, John is incapable of obtaining the one thing he so desperately desires: Happiness. Haunted by inner-demons from his past, John finds himself plagued by violent fantasies that consume him – Slowly seeping their way into his reality. Struggling against his disturbing inner being, all he can do is appear to be present in the moment, all the while coming apart from inside.

Rabid Pictures web-site

Abra Cadaver Trailer (2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Official Selection)

 Abra Cadaver Trailer (2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Official Selection) 
   
Director: Jay McBeth

Cast and Crew of Abra Cadaver

Synopsis: A streetwise hooker teaches a failed magician the difference between illusion and reality.

Tommy King and Kelly Ames

3-Iron Trailer (2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Official Selection)

3-Iron Trailer (2010 YoungCuts Film Festival Official Selection)



Director: Matt Kazman
Synopsis: Frank gets no respect from his overactive, violent 8 year old son. When he accidentally discovers his wife’s affair with a sweaty neighbor, he finally reacts in a way that would make his son proud…

YOUNGCUTS ANNONCE LA LISTE DES 100 MEILLEURS COURTS MÉTRAGES 2010

www.YoungCutsFilmFest.com

YOUNGCUTS ANNONCE LA LISTE DES 100 MEILLEURS COURTS MÉTRAGES 2010
MONTRÉAL, QC, le 23 août 2010 – YoungCuts a annoncé aujourd’hui la sélection officielle des 100 meilleurs courts métrages en provenance de jeunes cinéastes du monde entier. Les films, produits par des réalisateurs de 25 ans et moins, seront projetés au Cinéma du Parc (3575 avenue du Parc) le 24 et 25 septembre prochain. Justin Trudeau, membre du parlement de Papineau, apportera son soutien au festival en tant que président d’honneur. Les festivités s’amorcent avec une soirée d’ouverture qui aura lieu au Salon Officiel (351 rue Roy Est) le 23 septembre. La soirée débute à 20h00 avec une performance vidéo, l’événement est ouvert au public.


Cette année la programmation du festival comprend des conférences en compagnie de personnalités du cinéma et de l’industrie télévisuelle. Le festival s’est d’ailleurs allié aux Journées de la culture pour créer un volet Rencontres avec le cinéma. Une démarche éducative qui vise à orienter les étudiants vers les différents programmes et métiers du cinéma. Nous tenons également à remercier nos partenaires, qui encore une fois cette année nous supportent fidèlement : Tribute, En Primeur, High Fidelity HDTV, Virgin 96, Mirror, iCi Weekend, MyFilmmaker.com and the Ville de Montréal.

Chaque année, YoungCuts choisi les 100 meilleurs courts métrages sur un total de plus d’un millier de films en provenance de pays tel que le Canada, les États-Unis, le Mexique, le Royaume-Uni, la France, l’Allemagne, l’Espagne, la Suède, la Norvège, l’Irlande, la Serbie, le Maroc, le Liban, l’Australie, la Nouvelle Zélande, l’Inde, la Chine, le Vietnam, la Thaïlande, le Kenya et la Corée du Sud.

Les billets sont disponible au Cinéma du Parc au coût de 7,50$ chacun. Vous pouvez également vous procurer dix billets pour la somme de 50$. Il est possible d’en faire l’achat en ligne au www.youngcutsfilmfest.com. Pour plus d’information : (514) 285-4591 ou info@youngcutsfilmfest.com.


Liste des 100 courts métrages sélectionnés (A to Z) :

A Bump on the Head, de Jonathan Moxness (Canada)
Abra Cadaver, de Jay McBeth (Canada)
A Good Indian, de Andrew George (Canada)
Ain't That The Way, de Matt Paley (É-U)
Animal, de Skyler Proctor (É-U)
A War Story, A Love Story, de Matthew Evans (É-U)
Beg, de Tommy Malone (Canada)
Beirut, I Love You (I Love You Not), de Cyril Aris et Mounia Aki (Liban)
Big Brother, de Jay Salahi (É-U)
Birdhouse, de Chris Diaz (Canada)
Blood Job, de Wayne Robinson (Canada)
Ceci n'est pas une drag queen, de Olivier Lessard (Canada)
Cetvrtak (Thursday), de Nikola Ljuca (Serbie)
Chienne de vie, de Soffie Mallet (Canada)
Chroma, de Colin Racicot (Canada)
Climb, de Alexander Leu (Canada)
Coming Back, de Kelly Bumford (É-U)
Comment se noie une légende, de Mirek Hamet (Canada)
Dark Roads, de Jason Kent Carpenter (É-U)
Dick Picture, de Matt Kazman (Canada)
Do You Know How Much I Love You, de Caroline Claflin (É-U)
Dreamland, de David Marriott (Canada)
Echomotion, de Bret Kerven (É-U)
Eclipse, de Liat Koren (É-U)
El Turista, de Arcelia Ocana Manjarrez (Canada)
Empire City, de David McDonald (Canada)
Ewe Snooze, Ewe Lose, de David Ward (Australie)
Final Revision, de Sofia Gomez (É-U)
Flocons et carottes, de Samantha Leriche-Gionet (Canada)
Forfeit of Grace, de Kane Senes (É-U/Australie)
For Your Convenience, de Chas Fisher (Australie)
From the Second Chair, de Darol Michael Carr (É-U)
Full Count, de Patrick Collier (É-U)
Hotspur, de Josh Eisenberg (É-U)
How to be More Average, de Charlotte Hamlyn (Australie)
Hunger, de Michael Winston (É-U)
Inside, de Yaz Rabadi (Canada)
In The Blink of Love, de Pedro Clampolini (É-U)
Joy, de Max Doré (Canada)
Julian, de Matthew Joran Rovet (Canada)
Just a Love Story, de I-Fu Chen (Canada)
Kick it Now, de Loui Philipe Moar (Canada)
La Course, de Sheila-Vicky Brazeau (Canada)
La Khaima: The Tent of Mile-End, de Adam Shamash (Canada)
La tonsure, de Marie Pier Ottawa (Canada)
Little Boy, de Quentin Rameau (France)
Long Live the Duke, de Matt Brailey (É-U)
L'orage, de Bradley Brazeau (Canada)
Leave Out violence, de the kids from LOVE (Canada)
Mbegu, de Paul Plett (Canada/Kenya)
Mia, de Tamara Small (Australie)
Ne le dis pas, de Jani Bellefleur (Canada)
National Treasures, de YoungCuts (Canada)
No Time For Holiday, de Savannah Bloch (É-U)
Not So Long Lasting, de Catherine Andre (É-U)
Object Permanence, de AJ Korkiclakis (Canada)
One Man's Walk, de Kenneth et Nicholas Mitchell (Royaume-Uni)
Orbit, de Terrence Dankowych (Canada)
Paroles d'un oublié d'Hochelaga, de Andréann Cossette (Canada)
Piano Fingers, de Nicholas Carmen (É-U)
Pigmalion, de Juan Reidinger (Canada)
Ping, de Jason Oshman (É-U)
Popped, de Bianca Benduci (Canada)
Pretty Little Bits, de Maria-Saroja Ponnambalam (Canada)
Rain Crowds, de Ju Li Khaw (Canada)
Rhonda's Party, de Ashley McKenzie (Canada)
Royalty Free, de Mike Bernstein (É-U)
Salsiccia, de Kyle Lastoria (Canada)
Sebastian Goes to Work, de Rosa Aiello (Canada)
Shade of Grey, de Miles Robison (Canada)
Sharks Under Siege, de Mike Wham (É-U)
Shawn Harris Personal Trainer, de Tyler Silver et Simon Turkel (É-U)
Sofia, de Shervin Kermani (Canada)
Stop. Think. Rewind., de Mattan Cohen et Jay Salahi (É-U)
Straight and Narrow, de Kyle Steffler (Canada)
Sub Rosa, de Nadiah Hamzah (É-U)
Superstitious?, de David Magnier (Irlande)
Teddy & Olivia, de Alan Larsen (É-U)
Telefone, de Jeffrey Anderson Bliss (É-U)
Ten Hours Later, de Andreas Haglund (Australie/Suède)
The Arctic Circle, de Kevin Parry (Canada)
The Boy Who Knew, de Nicholas Arnold (Canada)
The Cooking Class, de Halsey Robertson et Zelda Wengrod (É-U)
The Dark Room, de Rob Petit (Royaume-Uni
The Inkwell Shuffle, de Christopher Diaz (Canada)
The Nuclear Genie, de Erik Choquette (É-U)
The Parade, de Giorgia Farina (É-U)
The Real Deal, de Taylor Jane Sella (É-U)
The Stand, de Olivia Chuba (É-U)
The Sweet Science: The Boss, de Evan Chan (Canada)
The Wages of War, de Dylan Pouliot (Canada)
Thunderstrike, de Eric Angelillo (Canada)
Traffic, de Oliver Milne (Canada)
Type O, de Brianna Brown (Canada)
Un trou dans la mémoire, de Sandrine Brodeur-Desrosiers (Canada)
Valérie Cadieux auditionne, de Marie-Ève Beaumont et Guillaume Lambert (Canada)
Vaseline & Pepper, de Fraser Munden (Canada)
Walt, de Greg Yagolnitzer (É-U)
Wank, de Sheldon Schwartz (É-U)
Will Work For Food, de Geoff Allison (USA)
Windigo, de Kris McKenzie (Canada)
Winter's Wind, de Trishia Hazelwood (Canada)
Woodhands @ Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest, de Ben Goloff et Josh Usheroff (Canada)
3-IRON, de Matt Kazman (É-U)

– 30 –

À PROPOS DE YOUNGCUTS
Fondé en 2001, le festival de films YounfCuts est la plus grande plate forme internationale pour les courts métrages en provenance de réalisateurs de 25 ans et moins. Cette année marque la huitième édition du festival. La participation augmente à chaque année! Les organisateurs visionnent maintenant plus d’un millier de films annuellement. Le festival de films YoungCuts est un organisme à but non lucratif commandité par Tribute, En Primeur, High Fidelity HDTV, Virgin Radio 96, Mirror, ICI, MyFilmmaker.com ainsi que la Ville de Montréal.


Pour plus d’information:

Mike Ryan
Directeur
YoungCuts Film Festival Inc.
1155 University, Suite 1015
Montréal, Québec
(514) 285-4591
Mike@YoungCuts.com

François Laurent
Assistant à la Direction
YoungCuts Film Festival Inc.
1155 University, Suite 1015
Montréal, Québec
(514) 285-4591
info@youngcutsfilmfest.com

YoungCuts Film Festival Announces Top 100 Short Films in the World

YoungCuts Film Festival Announces Top 100 Short Films in the World
(by Filmmakers 25 and under)
Download the Press Release PDF

www.YoungCutsFilmFest.com

YOUNGCUTS ANNOUNCES TOP 100 FOR 2010

MONTREAL, QC, August 23, 2010
– Today the YoungCuts Film Festival announced this year’s line-up of the top 100 short films by young filmmakers from around the world.  The films, produced by filmmakers 25 years old and under, will play at Montreal’s Cinema du Parc (3575 parc avenue) on September 24th and 25th. Justin Trudeau, Member of Parliament for Papineau, lends his support to young artists in his capacity as the Film Festival’s Honorary Chairman. The festival will begin with an opening party for filmmakers and fans, on September 23rd at nightclub Salon Officiel (351 Roy E.). The party will start at 8pm with a video performance and the general public is welcome


This year’s festival program features guest speakers from the cinema and television industry. The festival has partnered with the popular Les Journée de la culture to introduce a special educational panel called Rencontres avec le cinema, where interested students can learn about various cinema schools and communication programs and discuss career opportunities with film and television industry professionals. Participating sponsors include Tribute, En Primeur, High Fidelity HDTV, Virgin 96, Mirror, iCi Weekend, MyFilmmaker.com and the Ville de Montréal.


Each year, YoungCuts chooses its top 100 films from more than 1,000 submissions by filmmakers from countries around the world. This year’s participating countries included Canada, U.S.A., Mexico, U.K., France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Norway, Ireland, Serbia, Morocco, Lebanon, Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Vietnam, Thailand, Kenya and South Korea.


Tickets for individual screenings at Cinema du Parc are available for $7.50 or ten tickets for $50. Tickets may be purchased online at www.youngcutsfilmfest.com. For information contact 514-285-4591 or info@youngcutsfilmfest.com.


List of Top 100 (A to Z)

A Bump on the Head, by Jonathan Moxness (Canada)
Abra Cadaver, by Jay McBeth (Canada)
A Good Indian, by Andrew George (Canada)
Ain't That The Way, by Matt Paley (USA)
Animal, by Skyler Proctor (USA)
A War Story, A Love Story, by Matthew Evans (USA)
Beg, by Tommy Malone (Canada)
Beirut, I Love You (I Love You Not), by Cyril Aris and Mounia Aki (Lebanon)
Big Brother, by Jay Salahi (USA)
Birdhouse, by Chris Diaz (Canada)
Blood Job, by Wayne Robinson (Canada)
Ceci n'est pas une drag queen, by Olivier Lessard (Canada)
Cetvrtak (Thursday), by Nikola Ljuca (Serbia)
Chienne de vie, by Soffie Mallet (Canada)
Chroma, by Colin Racicot (Canada)
Climb, by Alexander Leu (Canada)
Coming Back, by Kelly Bumford (USA)
Comment se noie une légende, by Mirek Hamet (Canada)
Dark Roads, by Jason Kent Carpenter (USA)
Dick Picture, by Matt Kazman (Canada)
Do You Know How Much I Love You, by Caroline Claflin (USA)
Dreamland, by David Marriott (Canada)
Echomotion, by Bret Kerven (USA)
Eclipse, by Liat Koren (USA)
El Turista, by Arcelia Ocana Manjarrez (Canada)
Empire City, by David McDonald (Canada)
Ewe Snooze, Ewe Lose, by David Ward (Australia)
Final Revision, by Sofia Gomez (USA)
Flocons et carottes, by Samantha Leriche-Gionet (Canada)
Forfeit of Grace, by Kane Senes (USA/Australia)
For Your Convenience, by Chas Fisher (Australia)
From the Second Chair, by Darol Michael Carr (USA)
Full Count, by Patrick Collier (USA)
Hotspur, by Josh Eisenberg (USA)
How to be More Average, by Charlotte Hamlyn (Australia)
Hunger, by Michael Winston (USA)
Inside, by Yaz Rabadi (Canada)
In The Blink of Love, by Pedro Clampolini (USA)
Joy, by Max Doré (Canada)
Julian, by Matthew Joran Rovet (Canada)
Just a Love Story, by I-Fu Chen (Canada)
Kick it Now, by Loui Philipe Moar (Canada)
La Course, by Sheila-Vicky Brazeau (Canada)
La Khaima: The Tent of Mile-End, by Adam Shamash (Canada)
La tonsure, by Marie Pier Ottawa (Canada)
Little Boy, by Quentin Rameau (France)
Long Live the Duke, by Matt Brailey (USA)
L'orage, by Bradley Brazeau (Canada)
Leave Out violence, by the kids from LOVE (Canada)
Mbegu, by Paul Plett (Canada/Kenya)
Mia, by Tamara Small (Australia)
Ne le dis pas, by Jani Bellefleur (Canada)
National Treasures, by YoungCuts (Canada)
No Time For Holiday, by Savannah Bloch (USA)
Not So Long Lasting, by Catherine Andre (USA)
Object Permanence, by AJ Korkiclakis (Canada)
One Man's Walk, by Kenneth and Nicholas Mitchell (UK)
Orbit, by Terrence Dankowych (Canada)
Paroles d'un oublié d'Hochelaga, by Andréann Cossette (Canada)
Piano Fingers, by Nicholas Carmen (USA)
Pigmalion, by Juan Reidinger (Canada)
Ping, by Jason Oshman (USA)
Popped, by Bianca Benduci (Canada)
Pretty Little Bits, by Maria-Saroja Ponnambalam (Canada)
Rain Crowds, by Ju Li Khaw (Canada)
Rhonda's Party, by Ashley McKenzie (Canada)
Royalty Free, by Mike Bernstein (USA)
Salsiccia, by Kyle Lastoria (Canada)
Sebastian Goes to Work, by Rosa Aiello (Canada)
Shade of Grey, by Miles Robison (Canada)
Sharks Under Siege, by Mike Wham (USA)
Shawn Harris Personal Trainer, by Tyler Silver and Simon Turkel (USA)
Sofia, by Shervin Kermani (Canada)
Stop. Think. Rewind., by Mattan Cohen and Jay Salahi (USA)
Straight and Narrow, by Kyle Steffler (Canada)
Sub Rosa, by Nadiah Hamzah (USA)
Superstitious?, by David Magnier (Ireland)
Teddy & Olivia, by Alan Larsen (USA)
Telefone, by Jeffrey Anderson Bliss (USA)
Ten Hours Later, by Andreas Haglund (Australia/Sweden)
The Arctic Circle, by Kevin Parry (Canada)
The Boy Who Knew, by Nicholas Arnold (Canada)
The Cooking Class, by Halsey Robertson and Zelda Wengrod (USA)
The Dark Room, by Rob Petit (UK)
The Inkwell Shuffle, by Christopher Diaz (Canada)
The Nuclear Genie, by Erik Choquette (USA)
The Parade, by Giorgia Farina (USA)
The Real Deal, by Taylor Jane Sella (USA)
The Stand, by Olivia Chuba (USA)
The Sweet Science: The Boss, by Evan Chan (Canada)
The Wages of War, by Dylan Pouliot (Canada)
Thunderstrike, by Eric Angelillo (Canada)
Traffic, by Oliver Milne (Canada)
Type O, by Brianna Brown (Canada)
Un trou dans la mémoire, by Sandrine Brodeur-Desrosiers (Canada)
Valérie Cadieux auditionne, by Marie-Ève Beaumont and Guillaume Lambert (Canada)
Vaseline & Pepper, by Fraser Munden (Canada)
Walt, by Greg Yagolnitzer (USA)
Wank, by Sheldon Schwartz (USA)
Will Work For Food, by Geoff Allison (USA)
Windigo, by Kris McKenzie (Canada)
Winter's Wind, by Trishia Hazelwood (Canada)
Woodhands @ Cisco Ottawa Bluesfest, by Ben Goloff and Josh Usheroff (Canada)
3-IRON, by Matt Kazman (USA)

– 30 –

ABOUT YOUNGCUTS
Founded in 2001, the YoungCuts Film Festival is the Premiere International Showcase for Great Short Films by the World’s Best Young Filmmakers 25 and under. This year marks the eighth edition of the Festival. Interest and participation in the Festival has increased every year.  Organizers now review annually more than a thousand short films from countries around the world to pick the top 100. The YoungCuts Film Festival is a not-for-profit organization sponsored by Tribute, En Primeur, High Fidelity HDTV, Virgin Radio 96, Mirror, ICI, MyFilmmaker.com and the Ville de Montreal.

For media inquiries please contact:

Mike Ryan
Festival Director
YoungCuts Film Festival Inc.
1155 University, Suite 1015
Montreal, Quebec
(514) 285-4591
Mike@YoungCuts.com

François Laurent
Assistant Director
YoungCuts Film Festival Inc.
1155 University, Suite 1015
Montreal, Quebec
(514) 285-4591
info@youngcutsfilmfest.com

Fantasia 2010: Black Lightning (2009) Russia

Fantasia 2010: Black Lightning (2009) Russia

Black Lightning aka Chernaya Molniya (2009) Russia imdb Directed by Dmitriy Kiselev and Aleksandr Voytinskiy Written by Dmitriy Aleynikov and Aleksandr Talal, based on an idea by Aleksandr Voytinskiy and Mikhail Vrubel and Dmitriy Aleynikov, with participation from Rostislav Krivitskiy and Vladimir Neklyudov.

Produced by Timur Bekmambetov (the director of Wanted) who is currently developing a U.S. version, the Russian film Black Lightning is simultaneously the best flying car movie and the best Spider-Man movie ever made. (Replacing Chitty Chitty Bang Bang and Spider-Man II respectively - Blade Runner is a movie with flying cars not a movie about a flying car.)

To be exact it is a Spider-Man pastiche about a Russian kid named Dima (your Peter Parker substitute). After Dima drops broad hints about needing a car to date the prettiest girl in his school, Nastya (your Gwen Stacy substitute), his parents give him a beat-up antique Volga for his birthday. Dima is disappointed because the Volga is an uncool tank of a car and no competition for his best friend's cooler Mercedes. What Dima discovers is that his car is a lost Soviet experiment and it can fly. (The best friend being your Norman Harry Osborn substitute and Dima's rival for Nastya's attentions.)

In case it is not obvious, Black Lightning handles the soap opera that surrounds Dima's life very well hearkening back to the Stan Lee/John Romita Sr. run on the Amazing Spider-Man.

In typical Spider-Man fashion, Dima uses the flying car to become... the best (and best-paid) flower deliveryman in Russia, using the money to date Nastya. And naturally he learns a lesson about great power and greater responsibility.

It should be said that the film does not use those words. The film is built on a theme of selfishness vs selflessness, framed a bit as a nostalgic longing for socialism compared to the out-of-control kleptocracy version of capitalism that controls Russia today. The film is not completely nostalgic. The Soviet experiment that created the flying car in the first place failed (or rather appeared to fail) because of an act of selfishness.

The MacGuffin that fuels the plot (and makes the Volga fly) is a device called the nano-catalyst, created using a crystal from the Moon, implying that the Soviets either flew to the Moon or stole the a crystal from the Americans. The nano-catalyst converts regular fuel into fuel that is millions of time more efficient, powering the engines of Dima's flying car.

If that sounds like a silly use for such a device, you would share the opinion of the Big Bad of the film, a ruthless industrialist who is a cross between Norman Osborn and a Bond villain. He wants the nano-catalyst to power a drill to break through the bedrock underneath Moscow and access the diamond deposit hidden there. Worries that penetrating Moscow's bedrock foundation night cause earthquakes that would destroy half the city are dismissed as inconsequential compared to the diamonds.

Ironically, Russia kleptocracy works against the industrialist. When his stooges find the lost Soviet lab where the nano-catalyst experiments took place, they steal and sell the Volga (to Dima's father) because it is obviously not the nano-catalyst their boss is looking for. Similarly, Dima's florist boss and the purse-snatcher Dima refuses to stop both act for their own selfish reasons unknowingly frustrating the desires of the industrialist.

What makes Black Lightning great is its careful blend of crowd-pleasing Silver-Age Marvel super-hero soap-opera with astute (and exotic) commentary on contemporary Russian society.

Fantasia 2010: Raging Phoenix (and Fireball) Thailand

Fantasia 2010: Raging Phoenix (and Fireball) Thailand

Raging Phoenix aka Deu suay doo (2009) Thailand imdb Directed by Rashane Limtrakul Written by Sompope Vejchapipat.

I am not sure if anyone reads these because they are looking for films to watch (or avoid) but if you do, here is why you must hunt down Raging Phoenix in three words:

DRUNKEN. THAI. KICK-BOXING.

My work here is done!

....

You need more convincing? You need a slightly longer review? OK. How about a full sentence.

Raging Phoenix stars the girl from Chocolate as a young alcoholic who learns Drunken Thai Kick-Boxing to fight human slavers.




...

...

No not Juliette Binoche. Yes, Carrie-Anne Moss would make more sense, but not her either. Look we are not talking about the Lasse Hallström film Chocolat, we are talking about the Thai martial arts film Chocolate that introduced the world to the best female martial artist on film since Michelle Yeoh, namely JeeJa Yanin aka Yanin Vismistananda/Yanin Vismitananda.

What makes her special is that she hits people like Tony Jaa (that relentlessly physical Muay Thai style); she combines martial arts with dance like Jackie Chan only adding break-dancing to the mix; she uses team martial arts choreography like Jet Li and Miu Tse in My Father is a Hero and she has more emotional range than any of the men. She is also completely willing to get dirty and look unglamorous.

The plot of Raging Phoenix (such as it is) sees JeeJa playing Deu, a morose alcoholic who has lost or alienated everyone in her life with her combative ways. When slavers try to kidnap her, she is rescued by a troupe of drunken Thai kick-boxing break-dancers (I can hardly believe that you can list those words one after the other into a phrase that exists on film), named Pig-Shit, Dog-Shit, Bull-Shit and Sanim. All four men have lost someone in their life to slavers and have dedicated their lives to drinking and beating up slavers while drunk.

To be exact they practice the art of Meyraiyuth, a combination of drinking, Muay Thai, breakdancing and parkour. There is a bit more philosophy here than in Jackie Chan's Drunken Master films. As Bull-Shit explains to Deu, "Meyraiyuth is about pain. Alcohol is just the way that pain becomes violence."

In other words, when Jackie Chan practices Drunken Style Kung-Fu, the drunker he gets, the better at Kung-Fu that he gets. Which is why Drunken Master 2 ends with Jackie drinking alcohol so strong that it sets his breath on fire. When Jeeja Yanin practices Meyraiyuth, the more emotional pain that she is in, the better at beating people she is. Which is why Raging Phoenix ends with a heart-broken Jeeja flat-out killing people with knees and elbows.

While melodramatic, the film does have villains who create Jeeja's emotional anguish and deserve her wrath. They are slavers, so it would seem obvious that they are kidnapping girls for forced prostitution, but that would be too simple. (One almost feels like the change was made at the behest of some official in Tourism Thailand worried that horny tourists might see the film and feel guilt over their sex trips.)  Instead of simple sexual slavery, the Jaguar gang in the film kidnaps women to create an expensive perfume so intoxicating that its wearers become addicted to sex. The perfume is made from human pheromones and when this is announced it conjures thoughts of some hideous rendering factory which feeds beautiful Thai girls screaming into its gears to be ground down into tiny perfume bottles.

Again, too simple an idea. The slavers make their perfume from the rarest substance know to man: the tears of genuine sorrow from beautiful women.

There will come a time and soon, when Jeeja Yanin is given a script worthy of her amazing talents. Until that time, we can enjoy the immense guilty pleasure of watching her in action.

Key word there is watch. Despite its incredible high-concept premise, I can't recommend this next film because it is literally unwatchable.

Fireball aka Tar Chon (2009) Thailand imdb Directed by Thanakorn Pongsuwan Written by Thanakorn Pongsuwan and Kiat Sansanandana and Taweewat Wantha and Adirek Wattaleela.

Fireball is built on a brilliant, simple concept: Bloodsport for Basketball. Tony Jaa's stunt team play the assorted thugs entered in an annual underground full-contact basketball tournament run by the Thailand gang-lords. Each team is sponsored by one gang-lord who view the tournament as important for bragging rights, for the winner-take-all cash prize and as an augury to predict their future successes.

The rules are simple and brutal. Each team starts with five players. If a player gets injured or killed during the tournament, you can't replace him. You win games by either scoring 1 basket (!) or by making the other team unable to play by either killing or injuring all of them. Most teams consider winning by scoring a basket a tactic for pansies.

The plot of Fireball (such as it is) revolves around twin brothers Tai and Tan both played by Preeti Barameeanat. Tai is the criminal of the duo. When he is spring from prison early thanks to a hefty bribe from Tan, Tai discovers that his brother raised the money by entering the Fireball tournament and the injuries Tan suffered as a result have left him in a coma. Tai decides to enter the tournament posing as his brother hoping to find out who injured his brother and take vengeance on them.

So you have vengeance paired with paranoia as Tai has no idea who he can trust. Each member of his team including the gang-boss who funds it have their secrets. And those are the ones who are supposed to be on Tai's side, never mind the other teams who are just trying to kill or cripple him.

Pure melodrama, but that's not the problem. Most martial arts movies are paced like porn: Plot, dialogue, fight. And the plot is usually just as critical to the success of the film: a good plot can improve the film, but a bad one can't really hurt it that much.

No, the problem with Fireball is that you can't see what is going on. The film is shot with the dark, twitchy style of really bad rap videos. One of the games takes place at night, in a raging rain-storm with erratic lighting and for no good reason at all dry ice on the court. All of the bad habits that have popped up in recent sports films, where the games are shot with the herky-jerky hand-held style in extreme close-up.

Call me old-fashioned, but I like being able to tell what is going on in the game in a sports movie (or a martial arts film - or a porn for that matter).

And call me an idiot because if they make a sequel to Fireball, as they are threatening to do, I will pay to see it.