Russo Brothers’ AGBO Announces Return of ‘No Sleep ‘Till Film Fest’ Short Film Challenge – Film News in Brief

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The Joe and Anthony Russo-backed production company AGBO has announced the return of the fourth consecutive “No Sleep ‘Till Film Fest.”

The two-day festival challenges participants to make films that are three minutes or less for a chance to win prizes and receive ongoing mentorship from the independent studio.

The top three winners receive a filmmaking prize package with essential resources and “best-in-class” equipment for future filmmaking opportunities. They will also join the AGBO Storytellers Collective, an alumni network of winners from other AGBO-sponsored festivals and fellowship programs such as the Russo Brothers Italian American Filmmaker Forum and the Slamdance Film Festival Fellowship — the same festival the Russos received their start at in 1997 as emerging filmmakers.

In the past three years of the festival, “No Sleep ’til Film Fest” received over 2000 submissions from over 60 countries. 2023 winners included “Time of Your Life” directed by Darren Hinchy (Canada), “Just a Sec!” directed by Tanya Lialina and Teodor Klimov (Georgia), and “02:00 Minutes” directed by Grace McLeod (US).

The Russo brothers and the company’s executive board will serve as the virtual festival’s panelists. Submissions will be open from Sept. 27-29 and are due at 5 p.m. PT. Winners will be announced on Nov. 6.

Student Academy Awards Ceremony Moves to London With Support of Rolex as Partner

The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences announced the presentation ceremony for its annual Student Academy Awards will be hosted in London. Traditionally held at the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater in Beverly Hills, the event is set to take place at the ODEON Luxe Leicester Square on Monday, Oct. 14 at 7:00 p.m. BST.

The campaign has received more than $160 million, including support from long-standing Academy partner Rolex.

The winners of the 51st Student Academy Awards competition will be announced in September. In partnership with the BFI London Film Festival, Student Academy Award winners will have access to panels, networking opportunities and Academy members to support their career advancement.

“As a leader in our international film community, and as our organization becomes more global in focus, the Academy is thrilled to bring the Student Academy Awards to London this year,” said Academy CEO Bill Kramer. “We are deeply grateful to our partners at Rolex for their support of this vital program and for sharing our commitment to discovering and fostering emerging filmmakers. We are also so very thankful to the BFI London Film Festival for its partnership.”

Tickets for the ceremony will be available in September.

Texas Congressman Joaquin Castro Releases 2024 Latino Film Nominations for Recognition and Preservation by the Library of Congress

Joaquin Castro, congressman for the 20th district of Texas, has released his third annual list of Latino film nominations for consideration by the National Film Registry at the Library of Congress.

“Given the film industry’s continued lack of representation of Latinos, we must continue to make strong effort to ensure that Latino Americans’ contributions to our nation’s cinematic industry are appropriately celebrated and included in the National Film Registry,” Castro wrote in his nomination letter. “Movies remain a crucial form of storytelling that is easily accessible to the public. The media and entertainment industry is the narrative-creating and image-defining institution in America. We look forward to continuing to work together to expand diversity and Latino representation in the National Film Preservation Board and across the Library of Congress.”

Congressman Castro composed his list from hundreds of film suggestions submitted on social media and through his website. Check out the nominations below.

“Blood in Blood Out” (1993)
“Frida” (2002)
“Like Water for Chocolate” (1992)
“Mi Familia” (1995)
“Y Tu Mamá Tambiên” (2001)
“Under the Same Moon” (2007)
“American Me” (1992)
“Tortilla Soup” (2001)
“The Milagro Beanfield War” (1988)
“Cesar Chavez” (2014)
“Pan’s Labyrinth” (2006)
“Motorcycle Diaries” (2004)
“Mi Vida Loca” (1994)
“Instructions Not Included” (2013)
“Chicano I & II: The Mexican American Heritage Series” (1971)
“La Mission” (2010)
“Babel” (2006)
“125 Franco’s Blvd” (2010)
“Don’t Let Me Drown” (2009)
“Bless Me, Ultima “(2012)
“Walkout” (2006)
“Gotta Kick It Up!” (2002)
“Mosquita y Mari” (2012)
“Gun Hill Road” (2011)
“American Experience: Roberto Clemente” (2008)

Wednesday, Aug. 28

Angelina Jolie to be Honored with Toronto International Film Festival Tribute Award

Angelina Jolie has been awarded the Toronto International Film Festival Tribute Award in Impact Media.

The honor, presented by Anne-Marie Canning, highlights leadership in creating a union between social impact and cinema. Previous award winners include Pedro Almodóvar, Mira Nair and Alanis Obomsawin.

Jolie will be bestowed the award at the 2024 TIFF Tribute Awards Sunday, Sept. 8. The actress will be recognized alongside Amy Adams, Cate Blanchett, Durga Chew-Bose, David Cronenberg, Clément Ducol and Camille, Jharrel Jerome, Mike Leigh and Zhao Tao, with Sandra Oh serving as the inaugural Honorary Chair of the fundraising gala.

“Angelina Jolie is a multifaceted talent who has entertained audiences for decades while consistently using her platform to champion important causes,” said Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF. “We’re honoured to present her with the 2024 TIFF Tribute Award in Impact Media. This award recognizes her exceptional achievements in filmmaking, and her unwavering commitment for positive change, solidifying her status as a veritable humanitarian and global force to be reckoned with.”

Jolie returns to TIFF following the success of her features, “First They Killed My Father,” which she wrote and directed; and “The Breadwinner,” which she executive produced. Both films were TIFF selections in 2017.

Jolie, in addition to her over 20 years of humanitarian work focusing on refugees and human rights, has championed local leadership in environmental conservation and funded schools, health and education initiatives globally.

The Culinary Institute of America at Copia Launches New “Flavors of Film” Series In Collaboration with The Napa Valley Film Festival

The Culinary Institute of America (CIA) at Copia has announced its upcoming series, “Flavors of Film: A Celebration of Culinary Cinema,” which will take place in the Bay Area.

The series will begin Oct. 12 with a 20th anniversary screening of the Academy Award winning film “Sideways,” featuring a special Q&A with director Alexander Payne and star Virginia Madsen.

Here is “The Flavors of Film” Series lineup for 2024/25:

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Film Title: “Sideways” (2004), Directed and written by Alexander Payne
Synopsis: Struggling writer and wine enthusiast Miles (Paul Giamatti) takes his engaged friend, Jack (Thomas Haden Church), on a trip to wine country for a last single-guy bonding experience. While Miles wants to relax and enjoy the wine, Jack is in search of a fling before his wedding. Soon Jack is sleeping with Stephanie (Sandra Oh), while her friend Maya (Virginia Madsen) connects with Miles. When Miles lets slip that Jack is getting married, both women are furious, sending the trip into disarray.
Special Guests: The film’s director and writer, Alexander Payne, actress Virginia Madsen and Frank Ostini, owner, chef and winemaker of Hitching Post 2 and Hitching Post Winery, whose Pinot Noir gained international acclaim after being highlighted in the film, will be in attendance for a Q&A session. After the event, guests will enjoy a dinner with none other than Frank Ostini as the Guest Chef.
Trailer: HERE

Saturday, November 9, 2024

Film Title: “Common Ground” (2023), Directed by Josh Tickel and Rebecca Harrell Tickell
Synopsis: This documentary explores how many of the problems that ail humans connect to the state of the world’s soil. Independent farmers implementing historic indigenous techniques demonstrate how changing agricultural practices could potentially save the world.
Trailer: HERE

Saturday, December 7, 2024

Film Title: “The Truffle Hunters” (2020), Directed by Michael Dweck and Gregory Kershaw
Synopsis: Deep in the forests of Piedmont, Italy, a handful of men, seventy or eighty years old, hunt for the rare and expensive white Alba truffle-which to date has resisted all of modern science’s efforts at cultivation.
Partners: Italian Cultural Institute SF and Sabatino Truffles
Trailer: HERE

Saturday, December 21, 2024

Film Title: “Fantastic Mr. Fox” (2009), Directed by Wes Anderson
Synopsis: After 12 years of bucolic bliss, Mr. Fox (George Clooney) breaks a promise to his wife (Meryl Streep) and raids the farms of their human neighbors, Boggis, Bunce and Bean. Giving in to his animal instincts endangers not only his marriage but also the lives of his family and their animal friends. When the farmers force Mr. Fox and company deep underground, he has to resort to his natural craftiness to rise above the opposition.
Partners: Visit Napa Valley
Trailer: HERE

The screening of “Fantastic Mr. Fox” will be a festive, free holiday event for the whole community to enjoy with family and friends.

January 2025

Film Title: “Always Be My Maybe” (2019), Directed by Nahnatchka Khan, starring Ali Wong and Randall Park
Synopsis: Childhood sweethearts have a falling out and don’t speak for 15 years, only reconnecting as adults when Sasha runs into Marcus in San Francisco. Although the old sparks are still there, the couple live in different worlds.
Trailer: HERE

Saturday, February 22, 2025

Film Title: “Uncorked” (2020), Directed by Prentice Penny, starring Mamoudou Athie, Courtney B. Vance, Niecy Nash
Synopsis: Elijah must balance his dream of becoming a master sommelier with his father’s expectations that he carry on the family’s Memphis BBQ joint.
Partners: Association of African American Vintners (AAAV)
Trailer: HERE

Saturday, March 15, 2025

Film Title: “The Goddesses of Food” Directed by Vérane Frédiani
Synopsis: In the male dominated food universe, discover the women changing the game on all levels. Presenting the best female chefs, including multi-Michelin star chefs Dominique Crenn and Barbara Lync, and introducing rising new stars and those making incredible food in all corners of the world. It is a global journey exploring female strength in gastronomy.
Partners: Villa Albertine, Consulate General of France in San Francisco
Trailer: HERE

Friday, April 11, 2025

Film Title: “The Game Changers”
Synopsis: James Wilks travels the world on a quest for the truth about meat, protein, and strength. Showcasing elite athletes, special ops soldiers, and visionary scientists to change the way people eat and live.
Trailer: HERE

This screening will take place at the conclusion of the CIA’s Global Plant Forward Culinary Conference.

May 15-18 2025

Event: “Reel Taste Awards”
Synopsis: A four-day program honoring beloved food films and streaming series, featuring exciting partnerships, celebrity guests, and additional programming details.

Please note that all film screening dates are subject to change.

Tickets are available here.

Monday, Aug. 26

‘City of Dreams’ Filmmakers Give Away $1 Million in Preview Tickets to Human Trafficking Organizations, Churches and More

The filmmakers behind the child trafficking drama “City of Dreams” are giving away $1 million worth of preview tickets to human trafficking support organizations, survivors, churches, schools and those who couldn’t afford to see the film otherwise.

The giveaway, which is expected to draw more than 50,000 moviegoers, was made possible through a donation by John Devaney, founder of United Capital and Manor House Films. Those who receive tickets can preview the film as early as Wednesday, two days before its official premiere.

“[Director Mohit Ramchandani] has done a brilliant job through this powerful and unforgettable film by focusing on this issue and telling this story, inspired by true events. Few topics deserve a more urgent spotlight and my family, and I are privileged that we can help raise awareness by providing the opportunity to help protect and save innocent children from slavery,” said Devaney. “We know America will be as moved as our growing list of ambassadors and influencers who have signed on to pledge their support to the film.”

The 16th Annual Hola Mexico Film Festival Announces This Year’s Selections

Hola México Film Festival, the largest Mexican film festival outside of Mexico, will return for its 16^th annual edition Sept. 20–27 during Hispanic Heritage Month.

This year’s festival selections include a diverse slate of films in genres such as comedy, horror, social-political interest, LGBTQ themes and more. The festival selections are:

MEXICO AHORA

*Casi El Paraiso / Almost Paradise Dir. Edgar San Juan

**Todas Menos Tú / Anyone But Her Dir. Luis Kuri

Dante y Soledad / Dante And Soledad Dir. Alexandra De La Mora

Arillo De Hombre Muerto Dir. Alejandro Gerber Bicecci

***Un Actor Malo / Bad Actor Dir. Jorge Cuchí

Todo el Silencio / All the Silence Dir. Diego del Rio

A Cielo Abierto / Upon Open Sky Dir. Mariana Arriaga y Santiago Arriaga

Firma Aquí / Sign Here Dir. Enrique Vázquez

Soy Lo Que Nunca Fui / Broken Borders Dir. Rodrigo Alvarez Flores

The Wingwalker Dir. Alonso Alvarez-Barreda

Buen Salvaje / Good Savage Dir. Santiago Mohar Volkow

Tótem / Totem Dir. Lila Avilés

El Eco / The Echo Dir. Tatiana Huezo

NOCTURNO

***Párvulos: Hijos Del Apocalipsis / Toddlers: Children of the ApocalypseDir. Isaac Ezban

Masacre en Teques / Massacre in Teques Dir. Rodrigo Hernández Cruz

DOCUMENTAL

Tratado de invisibilidad / Invisibility Treaty Dir. Luciana Kaplan

El Guardián de las Monarcas / The Guardian of the Monarchs Dir. Emiliano Ruprah de Fin

***TransMéxico Dir. Claudia Sanchez

EL OTRO MEXICO

Jíkuri. Journey to the Land of the Tarahumara Dir. Federico Cecchetti

M20 Matamoros Ejido 20 Dir. Leonor Maldonado

[*Opening Night Film / ** Closing Night Screening / *** Special Showcase]

Tickets and more info are available at the festival’s website here.

Tuesday, Aug. 27

IndieVISIBLE Entertainment Launches Production Accessibility Training Program

IndieVISIBLE Entertainment, a production company and disability activism group, has expanded its training initiatives with the launch of the Access Instigators program. Led by differently-abled filmmakers, the program aims to develop careers in production accessibility, a film industry space that fosters disability-inclusive environments across film and TV productions.

The first 8-month pilot program will receive a class of 10 disabled-identifying trainees and teach them how to practice production accessibility in professional media settings. The curriculum includes hands-on set experience, one-on-one mentoring and skill development through community building.

‘Being Robin’ Documentary Lands Nov. 5 Release Date

“Being Robin,” a documentary about a man who claims to have been visited by the spirit of Robin Williams, premieres Nov. 5 on major streamers and in a limited theatrical run.

According to the official logline, the film follows director Roger Kabler, a comedian and actor who has “long been inspired by Williams. After his passing, Kabler—who has been diagnosed with bipolar disorder—experienced what he describes as feeling ‘infused’ by Williams’ spirit. This led him to create a stage show in tribute to the late comedian, which toured successfully across America for over two years.”

“This film is not just a tribute to Robin Williams but also a reflection on mental health and the profound impact Robin had on those who loved him,” said Kabler. “My story is raw and filled with a deep love for Robin, and the film offers a unique perspective on what Robin might have done if given a second chance to return to the stage. This is my love letter to Robin Williams.”

Here’s a first look: