MIDNIGHT COWBOY

Marielle Heller’s Tom Hanks-starrer A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD Opens Heartland International Film Festival 2019 among major awards players for this year’s fest

By John Wildman 6 years ago

Four top-tier titles expected to be major awards players this year have been secured for each of the gala slots for this year’s edition of the film festival, and a number of attention-getting films will join them as Heartland takes another major step toward being a leader on the regional circuit. Marielle Heller’s Tom Hanks-starrer A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN THE NEIGHBORHOOD was chosen as the Opening Night Gala film, and Destin Daniel Cretton’s JUST MERCY will screen as the Closing Night Gala selection. Noah Baumbach’s MARRIAGE STORY is set to be the Centerpiece Screening, and Fernando Meirelles’ THE TWO POPES will be the Showcase Screening.

TEN BURNING QUESTIONS: Our interview with first-time director Cati Gonzalez of EKAJ opens a window in to the madness and method behind the jazz-improvisation

By Miguel Cima 9 years ago

When I picked Mecca, I had already written about a guy with AIDS. It was rough for me because [actor Badd Idea] has AIDS. Every scene, I would pass it by him before [filming]. I’d ask, “Are you OK saying that?” Even though he was outspoken about [his disease]. So, it was rough. Jake grew up while we were making the movie. If I could do it again, I know [now] how I would do it [differently]. But I like challenges. I’m very extreme [when it comes to] challenges.

WOMEN TEXAS FILM FESTIVAL 2017 REVIEWS: Cati Gonzalez ‘s EKAJ is a bold, harrowing film about life on the streets that makes most Hollywood films look “soft”

By Miguel Cima 9 years ago

Allowing oneself to be basted in the film’s world is transformative. Never again will you look at “bums” and “degenerates” in a one-dimensional way. Because now, you’ve lived with them. Forget the soft edges and Hollywood dazzle of films like Midnight Cowboy or My Own Private Idaho. Such works don’t dare to delve into the filmic poetry and crushingly honest depictions which EKAJ achieves.