The Latest News from SXSW Film

"Me and Orson Welles" - Austin Premiere!

jim — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 19:32:10 +0000

Richard Linklater's Me and Orson Welles debuted at SXSW 2009 as a special secret screening. For those of you who weren't in on the secret, now's your chance to catch the acclaimed film as it receives its Austin Premiere, thanks to Austin Film Society.

Tickets go on sale today for the red-carpet screening on November 30 at the legendary Paramount Theatre. Linklater will be in attendance with the film's stars, Zac Efron and Christian McKay, so head over to austinfilm.org for more info and tickets.

If you want to make sure you don't miss out on any more special screenings, why not register for a SXSW 2010 badge? Do it before this Friday, November 13 and save $230 on the walk-up rate for a Platinum badge, $125 for Film and $100 on all Gold badges.
What are you waiting for? Register now!

Photo of Richard Linklater by John Pesina

Registration Deadline November 13: Register Now and Save!

adrienne — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 18:00:29 +0000

Planning on attending SXSW 2010 this year? Well, stop sitting on your haunches and register by the end of the day Friday, November 13 to take advantage of discounted badge prices! You will save $230 on the walk-up rate for a Platinum badge, $125 for Film and $100 on all Gold, Music and Interactive badges.

Not only do you gain access to five days worth of SXSW Music showcases, Film screenings, ScreenBurn, daytime panels, Trade Show events and after parties at this steep discount, but you will be the envy of all who did not take advantage of the early registration discount rates. Badge prices increase after November 13 so register before Friday!

The News Reel - Monday, November 9, 2009

jim — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 16:03:29 +0000

Scot Macauley takes another look at SXSW 2009's Objectified
From Filmmaker Magazine
Women in Trouble - "a world of campy happenstance and sexy confessionals"
From LA Times
Britain's Ofcom rejects BBC anti-piracy technology proposal
From The Guardian
MC Frontalot announces the winner of the Song Fight contest
From nerdcorerisingmovie.com
European FIlm Awards nominees announced
From Cinema WIthout Borders
"So is Hollywood dead or is it doing better than ever?"
From The Center for Internet and Society
Jake Gyllenhaal in talks to join new Duncan Jones project
From Cinematical

Photo of Isabella and Sebastian Gutierrez (Women in Trouble) by Scott Melcer

SXSW alumni present "DISTRIBUTION U"

jim — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 17:53:42 +0000

Want to learn more about the brave new world of film marketing and distribution? Join SXSW alumni and new media gurus Scott Kirsner and Peter Broderick in LA this saturday for DISTRIBUTION U: A One-Day Crash Course on the New Rules of Marketing and Distribution

The course will include distribution strategies, social media and audience building, and expect to hear case studies and examples from guest filmmakers who've experienced the new landscape first-hand.

Attendees will also receive a copy of Scott's book, Fans, Friends and Followers, and a special resource package from Peter.

What are you waiting for? Sign up now!

More info and registration details at: http://distributionu.eventbrite.com/

Photo of Scott Kirsner by Ken Hitchcock

The News Reel - Friday, November 6, 2009

jim — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 16:46:16 +0000

Reasons to see Splinterheads and Still Bill this weekend
From MTV Movies Blog
That Evening Sun's Hal Holbrook talks to Aaron Hillis
From IFC.com
Surveillance in the UK - "Are we in 1984?"
From The Guardian
Interview with That Evening Sun director Scott Teems
From Hammer to Nail
Yahoo launches music video search feature
From Mashable
An entirely subjective list of "films that defined the noughties"
From The Telegraph
Check out a deleted scene from Bruno, a SXSW 2009 sneak preview
From YouTube

Photo of Damani Baker and Alex Vlack (Still Bill) by Adrian Zamora

SXSW Films on Release - Thursday, November 5

jim — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 22:20:08 +0000

Welcome to SXSW Films on Release, keeping you abreast of all the great films from previous SXSW lineups. Whether in theaters, on DVD, online, on TV or anywhere else, catch up on films you missed, or just stay tuned to see your favourites again. Wherever it is, we'll let you know right here.

Theatrical

The Horse Boy - Various, expanded
Splinterheads - NYC, November 6
That Evening Sun - NYC, November 6

DVD/Blu-ray

The Way We Get By - DVD, out now

The Way We Get By - PBS, November 11 (Veterans day)

Image from The Horse Boy by Justin Jin

The News Reel - Thursday, November 5, 2009

jim — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 19:23:27 +0000

How Splinterheads was prepared for its imminent theatrical release
From Digital Content Producer's Briefing Room
TV garbage - Digital switch sees 70% jump in TVs entering UK landfill
From The Guardian
MPAA requests VOD waiver from FCC "to allow use of new technology boosting security"
From The Hollywood Reporter
Meeting Josh Harris, "The Warhol of the web"
From The Guardian
"How to successfully finance your independent film"
From The Independent Magazine
Chaos among Chinese Online Video companies as P2P disputes trigger a flurry of lawsuits
From NewTeeVee
YouTube - surprise - dominates video embedding trends revealed by new survey
From ReadWriteWeb
The horror...the horror...a turbulent year for the Media Giants
From The Wrap

Photo from SXSW 2009 Splinterheads premiere by Kara Young

"That Evening Sun" opens in NYC

jim — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:59:36 +0000

That Evening Sun won an audience award for Best Narrative Feature at SXSW 2009, as well as a Jury award for Best Ensemble Cast. New Yorkers can find out why this Friday, November 6, when the film opens at City Cinemas 123.

Screenings at 7pm this Friday and Saturday will be attended by cast members Hal Holbrook, Dixie Carter, Ray McKinnon and Carrie Preston, as well as director Scott Teems.

More info on the film is available on the official site, and head here to purchase tickets.

Photo of Hal Holbrook by Nikki Snodgrass

Reel Talks - Brant Sersen, Director of "Splinterheads"

jim — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 18:32:50 +0000

We recently caught up with SXSW alum Brant Sersen, better known as the writer/director behind SXSW 2009 world premiere Splinterheads.
The film received great reviews, and is living up to its promise of going on to even better things. We'll let Brant explain:

So what's going on with Splinterheads?

Well, after premiering at SXSW '09 we played a few more festivals, garnered a couple of awards and inked a deal with Mark Urman (Paladin) for a theatrical release. We're opening in New York November 6th and here in Austin at the Arbor Regal Theater on the 13th. It's been exciting, but a lot of work. Hopefully, it's all going to pay off.

For those who don't know, tell us a little about the film

I'll use the press release to explain the film and interject some thoughts in ALL CAPS.

"Splinterheads introduces Thomas Middleditch as Justin Frost, a twenty-something slacker whose “thing” is that he has no “thing” at all. (HE'S BASICALLY A DORK ON A PATH TO NOWHERESVILLE). When a small-time carnival rolls into town, he meets Galaxy (Rachael Taylor), a gorgeous con artist, or “splinterhead,” who has more “things” going for her than anyone he has ever met. (SHE'S THE HOTTEST THING HE'S EVER LAID EYES ON AND WILL STOP AT NOTHING TO GET HER ATTENTION). While dealing with a romance between his mom (Lea Thompson) and the local cop (Christopher McDonald), Justin romances Galaxy, joining her on a geocaching adventure that is part treasure hunt and part hike, and figures out what his “thing” really is. " (THIS IS FUNNY THOUGH. DON'T BE MISLEAD BY "ROMANCES". THERE IS SOME ROMANCE, ENOUGH FOR THE LADIES, BUT LOTS OF LAUGHS, FELLA'S).

What else lies ahead for Splinterheads?

We have a college tour lined up for early 2010. And some international deals on the table. I just heard Lebanon bought the film! Yeah, the Lebanese know what's up.

How was your SXSW experience? Any advice for newbies?

I love SXSW. It's my favorite film festival hands down - and I'm not just saying that to kiss ass here. If you're in the business of making comedy films this is the premiere event. This is really owed to the people of Austin. They're the best audience to gauge reaction to your film because they're made up people that love all genres of film - it's not just cinephiles that watch Rossellini and Antonioni films on repeat all day. It's a very diverse, cultured city.

As for advice, don't come to SXSW looking for the audience. Have the audience already lined up to see your film before you get there.

Any more projects in the pipeline?

Yes, I'm writing a new comedy that I hope to have in production by spring of next year.

Check out the Splinterheads official site and blog for more info

Photo of Brant Sersen courtesy of Paladin and Atlantic Pictures

Early Film Submission Deadline is TODAY, November 5!

jim — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:12:22 +0000

Today is your last chance to submit your film before the early deadline! What does that mean? It means you can save money on entry fees - pay just $25 for shorts, or $40 for features - but you must do it TODAY.

Also remember that today is the POSTMARK DEADLINE for submission. Translation - you need to have your DVD screener in the mail by close of business today, November 5. Get on it now!

When you've filled out that form, paid those fees and mailed off that screener, consider applying to our SXSW Title Sequence Design Competition. It cost just $10 right up to the December 11 deadline, and anyone with a completed film can enter.

More info right here, or contact us at film@sxsw.com.

The News Reel - Wednesday, November 4, 2009

jim — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 16:01:25 +0000

New review of SXSW 2009 world premiere Beetle Queen Conquers Tokyo
From Bad Lit
Scorsese among those looking to Blu-ray's "bright future"
From Variety
Redbox testing out $2 rental pricing scheme
From Video Business
French theaters close in protest of change in release windows
From Variety
Holiday viewing from IFC
From IFC.com
Hulu launches their new schedule interface, "Coming Soon""
From Hulu
Gawker trawls the world of "kooky web video" so you don't have to
From NewTeeVee
3D in the palm of your hand - 3M gets into miniaturization
From Engadget

Photo of Jessica Oreck (Beetle Queen Conquers Tokyo) by Kaushlesh Biyani

2 More Days Until Early Film Deadline!

jim — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 20:21:17 +0000

Submitting your Film to SXSW 2010? Do it by this Thursday, November 5 and get the lowest rates on entry fees! At $25 for a short and $40 for a feature, this is as low as it gets.

Prices go up after Thursday, so now's the time to fill out the form, pack up that DVD and get it sent over to SXSW HQ.

So, to recap...you should submit your film now!

The News Reel - Tuesday, November 3, 2009

jim — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:16:43 +0000

Lena Dunham's Downtown Divas hit up the First Annual Guggenheim Art Awards
From ovationtv.com
Is Netflix Streaming heading to the Nintendo Wii?
From /Film
"Lovefilm is plotting its rise" - tracking the British answer to Netflix
From Business Week
Best Buy hops onboard the Digital bandwagon with CinemaNow
From Variety
"Are DVRs actually going to save the network TV model?"
From Engadget
Pressing questions for New Media distributors
From Jawbone
SXSW alum Scott Kirsner discusses transmedia storytelling with Tim "Heroes" Kring
From The Workbook Project

Image from Lena Dunham's Creative Nonfiction courtesy of Pistols Kill Ponies

Film's Competitive Marketing Opportunities

Peter — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 16:09:31 +0000

One of the most exciting new events at SXSW Film in 2010 is the Film Design Competition. In conjunction with this inspired concept is a premiere marketing opportunity to become the title sponsor of the competition. This singular opportunity features two distinct competition groups, a film poster competition and a title design sequence. Open to all accepted films, the poster competition will be hosted as an exhibit near the Austin Convention Center Theater. Separate from this, the title sequence competition will be open to all completed films finished in 2009 or later with the winners being announced during the Film Awards Ceremony.

As sole presenter, your brand will be featured in the Film Program Directory, Awards Program, Pocket Guide and all SXSW 2010 Press Releases. In addition to this, you will have the opportunity to hang signage during the SXSW Poster Exhibit and have on-screen branding during the 2010 Film Awards.

This coveted premier marketing opportunity will not last. Contact our Film Sales Representative today to learn more.

The News Reel - Monday, November 2, 2009

jim — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 16:43:43 +0000

"Have women ever had a better year behind the camera?"
From The Independent
Shaking up Miramax - Battsek departs organization
From Thompson on Hollywood at IndieWIRE
Britain sets the pace for DVR use
From NewTeeVee
Eye fashion goes 3D
From Film Journal
Ted Hope launches a new (promise to) fund burgeoning filmmakers
From Truly Free Film
Apps - predicting changes in the media landscape
From TechCrunch
Big things ahead for digital cinema in the UK
From The Hollywood Reporter

Photo of Kathryn Bigelow by Jay West

The News Reel - Friday, October 30, 2009

jim — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 16:10:29 +0000

Zach Levy on Strongman and making DIY work for the filmmaker
From Filmmaker Magazine
A closer look at Best Worst Movie as it takes on British audiences
From The Independent
Some alternative horror suggestions for Halloween
From Salon
SXSW alum Ry Russo-Young among directors for season 2 of web series Radar
From Tubefilter
Ti West - what really went on with Cabin Fever 2
From /Film
Jeremy Renner on life after The Hurt Locker
From Variety
And a collective “phew” was heard ’round the Internet" - Hulu sets minds at ease
From Entertainment Weekly's Popwatch

Photo of Zach Levy by Chuck H W

Celebrate Halloween with SXSW Films on DVD!

jim — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:35:40 +0000

How will you celebrate Halloween?

Why not get freaked out in the comfort of you're own home with some DVDs from the SXSW horror repertoire.
From SXSW 2009, check out Sam Raimi's Drag Me To Hell, parenting nightmare Grace, the grief-stricken The Haunting in Connecticut, or the simply creepy The Ceremony.

From 2008, Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie is exactly what it says, a monster movie with a quirky difference, while Shuttle travels dark, downbeat terrain.
2007's American Zombie goes deep into the undead underground, while those who like their horror with a Gallic slant should check out Them, a lo-fi French shocker that taps into the worst fear you didn't know you had.

Still hungry for more? Behind the Mask: The Rise of Leslie Vernon (2006) brings the slasher action, while Slither is appropriately disgusting.
Finally, if you can't bring yourself to leave the house, then why not head to Hulu to check out the magnificent Troll 2, subject of SXSW 2009's Best Worst Movie. Although the acclaimed doc is as yet available on DVD, watch out for it...hopefully in time for Halloween 2010!

Photo by Tyler Nutter

SXSW Films on Release - Thursday, October 29

jim — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 20:14:50 +0000

Theatrical

Beeswax - Limited release (expansion)
The Horseman - UK only

DVD/Blu-ray

In a Dream - DVD Special Edition, out now
Medicine for Melancholy - DVD, out now

Photo of Barry Jenkins (Medicine for Melancholy) by Chris Lang

The News Reel - Thursday, October 29, 2009

jim — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 16:28:52 +0000

"This year or next year is going to be Hollywood's year to really start to lose audience"
From CNET
The Pirate Bay saved from deep water?
From DMW Media
The Horseman descends on UK theaters
From Twitch
Paranormal Activity knocks The Blair Witch Project off its profit perch
From The Wrap
Scholarship launched to assist disabled filmmakers
From Variety
The Yes Men - "We're officially part of the the Extreme Left-Wing Agenda"
From The Yes Men
"The life expectancy of those running Hollywood studios has shortened"
From The Hollywood Reporter
Caan and Farmiga added to cast of "Henry's Crime", from a script by Anvil's Sacha Gervasi
From Variety

Photo from SXSW 09 premiere of The Horseman by Nicholas Fang

Submit Your Film by November 5 and Save Money!

jim — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 18:07:59 +0000

You have less than a week to submit your film to SXSW before prices jump up!

Enter your film by November 5 to receive the low rate of $25 for a short, or $40 for a feature. That's a saving of $15-$20!

For full details head to our submissions page, and if you have any questions, don't forget to read the Film Submission FAQ.

What are you waiting for? Submit your film now and save!

The News Reel - Wednesday, October 28, 2009

jim — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 16:05:18 +0000

A review of SXSW 2009's Crude Independence, new on DVD
From The Documentary Blog
Vivendi head suggests a "3-strikes" rule for illegal filesharing in the UK
From The Guardian
Major media corporations are called out for issuing censorious "takedown" orders
From ReadWriteWeb
South Africa gets behind 3D with two new animated features
From Variety
A new interview with SXSW alum Sam Rockwell
From Cinematical
Too much too soon? Waiting for Digital Cinema to deliver
From The Hollywood Reporter
Ti West launches a blood-curdling new web series, just in time for Halloween
From IFC.com
Ted Hope calls "a home for a Truly Free Film celebration"
From Truly Free Film

Photo of Noah Hutton (Crude Independence) by Kath Manning

BBQ Crash Course at SXSW 2010!

jim — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 19:02:18 +0000

If you've registered to attend SXSW 2010, arrive in Austin a day ahead of the official Friday, March 12 start date. Why? Because on Thursday, March 11, some of the finest barbecue vendors in town will showcase their delicious, meaty wares at the BBQ Crash Course. Join us at Emo's from 6:00-9:00pm to revel in the wonders of ribs, brisket, sausage and more, and share some table-space with like-minded SXSW attendees.

Tickets are $35 when you register for SXSW, or email the Registration Department if you've already registered. The BBQ Crash Course, presented with our friends at Dishola, is sure to kick off SXSW 2010 with a truly Texan flair.

Photo of Erin Caton at 2009 BBQ Crash Course courtesy of Dustin Diaz.

Titled Rewards

Peter — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:29:29 +0000

Film industry insiders know just how important a marquee sponsorship can be. Amongst the many marketing options at SXSW, the Title Sponsor of the Film Theater in the Austin Convention Center is a crown jewel.

As the Title Sponsor of this custom cut theater inside the Austin Convention Center, your onscreen branding will reach upwards of 8,000 attendees this year. In addition to exposure during film screenings, the site will also play host to the SXSW Film Awards Ceremony. Furthermore, the Title Sponsorship of the Film Theater in the Austin Convention Center rewards those seeking expanded brand awareness with a blanketed approach. Along with the in-theater branding, your title sponsorship automatically ensures your inclusion in the SXSW Film Directories, Film Pocket Guide, SXSW emails, Film Awards Program, SXSW administered press releases and other promotional outlets. No other SXSW Film sponsorship offer spreads the reach of a brand in so many mediums.

To take advantage of this fantastic Film fortuity, contact our Film Sales Representative today!
Photo courtesy of Frances Cruzada

The News Reel - Tuesday, October 27, 2009

jim — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 16:23:24 +0000

King Corn - building a solid social outreach strategy
From Valley Avocate
Netflix to begin streaming to Sony's Playstation 3
From The Independent
Screenvision slated to expand digital live feed technology nationwide
From boxoffice.com
"Should there be a new Dumbledore army against studio law?"
From Cinematical
Another Women in Trouble poster is unveiled
From Cinematical
Life after DVD - studios look to digital future
From The New York Times
Anne Thompson on Hollywood downsizing
From Thompson on Hollywood
3D gathers speed as Warner Bros. and Overture sign deals with Cinedigm
From Variety
Photo of Ian Cheney and Curt Ellis (King Corn) by Sam Cullman

Winnebago Man returns to Austin!

jim — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 18:56:19 +0000

Do yourself a kindness and check out a special one-night-only sneak preview of the acclaimed documentary Winnebago Man, a world premiere at SXSW 2009.

The fundraising event takes place tomorrow, Tuesday, October 27, at the Monarch Event Center at Lincoln Village in Austin, TX.
If you're unfamiliar with the life-affirming ire of world-class curmudgeon and YouTube celebrity Jack Rebney, don't miss this opportunity to witness the full story unfold on the big screen.

Director Ben Steinbauer and Producer Joel Heller will be on hand for a post-screening Q&A, so head here and pick up tickets now!

Still taken from "Winnebago Man"

The News Reel - Monday, October 26, 2009

jim — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 16:04:55 +0000

Congratulations to Broken Lizard's The Slammin' Salmon, just picked up by Anchor Bay
From Variety
Samantha Morton joins Nicole Kidman in her stance against negative representations of women in Hollywood
From Digital Spy
Raindance announces 12th British Independent Film Awards nominations
From Raindance
Greening the screen - is eco-filmmaking truly possibly?
From Little White Lies
The Hulu threat - watch out TV!
From Business Insider
"You're going to ask David Letterman to host, right?" - predicting the Oscars show
From LA Times' The Envelope
Netflix to launch streaming-only for non-US audiences
From ReadWriteWeb
Seeing red - how a DVD kiosk is (possibly) taking over the rental world
From New York Times

Photo of Kevin Heffernan, Steve Lemme and
Richard Perello (Slammin' Salmon) by Francis Cruzada

The News Reel - Friday, October 23, 2009

jim — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 16:01:57 +0000

Hulu - letting Pandora out of the box?
From Broadcasting & Cable
The Yes Men launch their own channel on Babelgum
From The Hollywood Reporter
An audio interview with 45365 directors Bill and Turner Ross
From Directors Notes
Breaking through the "Celluloid Ceiling"
From IndieWIRE
Making ends meet and budgets stretch - recession filmmaking
From Filmmaker Magazine
France gets serious on piracy with a new "three strikes" policy
From New York Times
Social media and distribution basics for documentary filmmakers
From Kino-Eye

Photo of Andy Bichelbaum (The Yes Men) by Anne Marie Carson

SXSW Films on Release - Thursday, October 22

jim — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 20:55:09 +0000

Theatrical

All Tomorrow's Parties - UK Tour, from October 23
Ong Bak 2 - October 23

DVD/Blu-ray

Gretchen - DVD, October 27
They Killed Sister Dorothy - DVD, out now

Dear Zachary: a letter to a son about his father - CBC Newsworld, Sunday, October 25 (Canada)

All Tomorrow's Parties image courtesy of Warp

Bill Withers Doc "Still Bill" in NYC, Directors in Attendance!

jim — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 17:15:18 +0000

SXSW 2009's Still Bill has just been picked up by B-side Entertainment's Theatrical-on-Demand program: check out the film's official website to find out how you can host your own screening, where and whenever you like.

Meanwhile, the film screened earlier this week at New York's IFC Center, co-presented by SXSW and Stranger Than Fiction. The screening was presented by SXSW Film Festival Producer Janet Pierson, and Filmmakers Damani Baker and Alex Vlack were on hand for a lively Q&A.

If you missed it, check out the official site and set up your own screening!

Photo of Damani Baker and Alex Vlack by Joshua Z Weinstein

The News Reel - Thursday, October 22, 2009

jim — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 16:07:55 +0000

Sin Nombre director Cary Fukunaga to helm an adaptation of a British classic
From /Film
Thomson ups the ante as it rolls out Technicolor 3D, with formidable industry support
From Reuters
"It’s time to get schooled" - geeking out on Ong Bak 2
From Geek Chic Daily
Thoughts on the future of film - a summary
From Truly Free Film
The UK braces itself for the digital switch
From Screenrush
Disney's "Keychest" technology aims to take on-demand in a bold new multi-platform direction
From The Wall Street Journal
Go East - Czech Republic gets serious about attracting foreign film investment
From Variety
“Cinema is no longer an isolated, location-centric experience"
From Jawbone

Photo of Cary Fukunaga at SXSW 2009 by Charles Murphy

The News Reel - Wednesday, October 21, 2009

jim — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 16:23:19 +0000

"What do you think will happen if Hulu begins charging?"
From CNET News
"Objectified...is the kind of movie you’ll want to share with every alert filmgoer on your list"
From Greencine
How to make a $70 zombie movie - behind the scenes of Colin
From The Independent
The Yes Men, annoying the elite so you don't have to
From Good
Closing the gap between VOD and DVD
From Variety
The fight to "protect intellectual property" arrives at Capitol Hill
From The Hollywood Reporter
Making the web work for TV networks
From NewTeeVee

Image of Gary Hustwit ("Objectified") by Courtney Pierce

SXSW Alumni Among IFP Gotham Awards Nominations

jim — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:51:45 +0000

Congratulations to the SXSW alumni who made the nominations for the 19th Annual Gotham Independent Film Awards!

Kathyn Bigelow's The Hurt Locker picked up three nods, for Best Feature, Best Ensemble Performance, and a Breakthrough Actor nomination for Jeremy Renner. Also up for Best Ensemble Performance, nominations go to Adventureland (SXSW 2009), and Cold Souls, whose director, Sophie Barthes, screened her short Happiness at SXSW 2007.

Cherien Dabis' debut feature Amreeka joins The Hurt Locker in the Best Feature category. Dabis' short film Make A Wish screened at SXSW 2007. Ry Russo-Young completes the lineup, with her film You Won't Miss Me nominated for Best Film Not Playing at a Theater Near You. The film was a special screening at SXSW 2009.

Good luck everyone!

Photo of Kathryn Bigelow at SXSW 2009 by Courtney Dudley

First Batch of 2010 Panels Announced for Film and Interactive Registrants

jim — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 20:07:45 +0000

Throughout the freshly announced batch of 2010 SXSW Interactive panels you will find an awesome selection of our unique Film/Interactive panels.
These panels - open to BOTH Film and Interactive registrants - deal with subjects at the frontier of Film and digital convergence, including user-generated content, online video, digital filmmaking and much more. Check out this special panels list below, and don't forget that if you
want to experience these panels in person, register now for a badge. Head here to find out more.

There are plenty more to come, so bookmark sxsw.com/film, and watch out for dedicated Film panel announcements in the coming months.

Interactive Documentaries: a Multidimensional Narrative

Don't Get Sued! A Guide For Content Creators

What's Open Video and Why Does It Matter?

Evolution of Online Video

PayTV vs. Internet - The Battle For Your TV

Wikipedia Gets an Upgrade: Collaborative Video

CrowdControl: Changing The Face Of Media Or Hype?

Indirect Collaboration: Collective Creativity on the Web

Photo of Gary Hustwit at SXSW 2009 by Jim Coudal

Stand Exposure

Peter — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 18:55:52 +0000

Exposing your business or organization to a captive audience is often hard to achieve as a marketer. At the SXSW Film + Interactive Trade Show, this is never the case. Nowhere else can an aspiring marketer find such a captive and retentive audience than the dynamic Trade Show experience at SXSW. The fluid relationship with the expanding Interactive industry allows numerous opportunities to build relationships, making the SXSW Film + Interactive Trade Show a compelling epicenter for the exchange of ideas and the promotion of business.

Key among the benefits of securing a Trade Show Stand is the popular Block Party. Hosted on the second day of the Film + Interactive Tradeshow, this swinging soiree allows exhibitors to mingle in a festive atmosphere and replete with complimentary beverages and snacks. In addition to being a good time, this laid-back affair grants exhibitors an additional chance to catch up with friends, establish contacts and facilitate potential relationships.

With a 10% discount in effect until November 13th, there is no better time than now to secure your stand. Contact our Film Sales Representative today to ensure your spot on the Trade Show floor.
Photo of registrants awaiting the opening of the Film + Interactive Trade Show courtesy of Jenn Soto.

SXSW 101: Hotel Shuttle for the Budget-Minded

adrienne — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 17:07:33 +0000

Music, Interactive, and Film registrants on a budget should consider the less expensive hotels just a few minutes outside downtown.

The R&R Hotel Shuttle has been expanded to run to hotels beyond convenient walking distance during Interactive/Film as well as Music. Shuttles will run more frequently (stops every 30 minutes at the Convention Center and hotels included on the shuttle route). Service will begin at 8:30 am to get you to the Convention Center and run until 3:00 am to get you home from the clubs. Buy a pass now for just $40 for five days of unlimited travel or $60 for nine days. Convenience during the day – and your designated driver at night.

The News Reel - Tuesday, October 20, 2009

jim — Tue, 20 Oct 2009 16:43:21 +0000

A clutch of clips and trailers for SXSW 2009's That Evening Sun
From /Film
Fox Filmed Entertainment broadens its foray into a digital future
From Reuters
MPAA employees lose jobs as part of a "restructuring of the piracy-fighting operations"
From CNET News
Hollywood gets tough on Hollywood tweets
From The Independent
Antisocial behaviour - a hard line on cell phones at the movies
From Cinematical
Aardman Animation enlists an unusual workforce for an Olympic campaign
From The Times
How do actors deal with Hollywood sex scenes
From The Wrap

Photo of Scott Teems (That Evening Sun) by Nikki Snodgrass

SXSW 2010 "Excellence in Title Design" Award Announced

jim — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 22:45:08 +0000

Following the success of last year's SXSW Film/AIGA Austin Film Poster Award, SXSW 2010 will expand the annual Film Design Awards to include the inaugural Excellence in Title Design Award. This brand new initiative, the first of its kind, aims to discover the very best in contemporary title sequence design, and continue our tradition of celebrating unique creative vision in all aspects of filmmaking.

Eligibility is open internationally to all title sequences that exist in a film completed in 2009/2010. The deadline to submit is December 11. Entries will be judged by an esteemed panel of experts from the worlds of title design, digital film production and online hosting and distribution.

As an added bonus, SXSW will showcase accepted Title Sequences at a dedicated screening during the event, and entries will be eligible for an Audience Award, chosen by the public. SXSW will continue to present the Excellence in Poster Design Award, which is open again to all films accepted for SXSW Film 2010.

For more information, check out our dedicated page here, and stay tuned for updates.

Image - SXSW / AIGA Austin Movie Poster Award Best in Show Winner for "Dungeon Masters". Designed by David Plunkert, Spur Design, LLC

SXSW 101: Who else is coming?

adrienne — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 17:34:18 +0000

After you register for SXSW 2010 you’ll gain access to my.sxsw.com -- our easy and versatile social networking site. This is where the entire community of SXSW attendees (registrants, panelists, trade show exhibitors, and others) post messages to each other (individually or as a whole) about their past experiences and their plans for the upcoming event. And it has handy tools that help you book a hotel room, upload a photo for your badge, and link to Twitter, Facebook, and MySpace pages.

New SXSWORLD Advertising Special

Peter — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:32:31 +0000

Do you need to maximize your advertising budget? Really wish to stretch your dollars? Look no further than the latest SXSW Advertising Special! There is no better way to establish your brand than advertising with SXSW. From now until February 5, 2010, booking an ad in a SXSW Program Directory and in the post-SXSW issue of SXSWORLD will qualify you for a special discount on any additional ads in all other 2010 editions of SXSWORLD.

Published in February, twice during SXSWeek in March and again in May, SXSWORLD is a singular platform for your brand advertising. From industry leaders and innovators to fans and consumers, this winning periodical reaches thousands of unique readers.

This one time chance offers hundreds of dollars in potential savings, but you must act quickly! Solidifying this deep discount will guarantee your marketing success. Contact our Sales Office today to find out how.

SXSW provides significant discounts through a special SXSWORLD rate card for advertisers of the SXSW Program Directories. From now until February 5, 2010, when you book an ad in one of these directories and in the post-SXSW issue of SXSWORLD, all other 2010 magazine advertising will qualify for the 5x rate. SXSWORLD is published in February, twice during SXSWeek in March and again in May.
Photo: Cover of the latest SXSWORLD issue.

The News Reel - Monday, October 19, 2009

jim — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 15:29:20 +0000

Duncan Jones launches Twitter campaign to nominate Sam Rockwell for an Oscar
From Gordon and the Whale
"Must we admit that in the age of digital everyone is looking at electronic imagery and being depressed by it?"
From The Guardian
98 documentaries on the eligibility list for 2010 Cinema Eye Honors
From All These Wonderful Things
Austin Chronicle points towards online video destinations for cinephiles
From The Austin Chronicle
British government commits to $73 million (£45 million) to constructing a new National Film Center in London
From Variety
SXSW 2009's Pontypool reviewed on its UK release
From The Guardian
A fair use conundrum as Shepard Fairey admits to a "lapse in judgment"
From TechCrunch

Photo of Sam Rockwell by Matthew Wedgwood

The News Reel - Friday, October 16, 2009

jim — Fri, 16 Oct 2009 16:49:04 +0000

New website harnesses the power of piracy to introduce another new distro model
From Cinematical
The guys behind King Corn introduce Big River: A King Corn Companion
From bigriverfilm.com
65 countries, 65 films - Foreign Language Film Oscar submissions announced
From oscars.org
Europe faces up to a file-sharing dilemma
From Deutsche Welle
Interview with Broken Lizard's Jay Chandrasekhar
From QuickDFW blog
Size matters - big-screen 3D arrives in the living room
From NewTeeVee
SXSW alum Jesse Epstein (34x25x36) interviewed
From Sidelines Online

King Corn photo by Sam Cullman

Reel Talks - Zach Levy, Director of "Strongman"

jim — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 22:36:38 +0000

Strongman director Zach Levy has been mighty busy since bringing his chronicle of Stan "Stanless Steel" Pleskun to SXSW 2009.
We recently caught up with Zach to see what's up.

Hey Zach. For those who don't know, tell us about the film

Well, it's called Strongman...and it's about a professional strongman. People sometimes say it's like a real-life version of The Wrestler. I still haven't seen The Wrestler -- so I can't comment directly on that -- but I've always sort of thought the one-sentence description would be La Strada meets Grey Gardens.

What's been going on with Strongman in the last few months?

A lot of heavy lifting! I'm still doing some festivals (I just showed the film on Coney Island--check out my blog for photos of me driving a truck on top of Stan--and right now I'm in Memphis for Indie Memphis)--but really the last couple months have been spent on the phone setting up a theatrical run for the film. I've been doing it by myself, so it really is heavy lifting to say to the least. But that said, I think I have a shot at making this work. At the moment, I have a dozen theaters around the country that are going to do runs with the film and another 10 or so pending. It kind of reminds of where I was with the early days of the playing cards.

What's next? Any new projects in the pipeline?

At the moment, my project is really just getting Strongman out there. This phase is a new project in itself--just more of an artistic entreprenuerial one than just a pure film one. In the meantime, I'm collecting ideas and am in the early stages of developing some new products as well.

Any advice for SXSW newbies?

Drink a lot of water.

Photo of Stanless Steel and Zach Levy by Ben Dailey

Broken Lizard, Back on Stage in Texas

jim — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 21:05:27 +0000

Comedy fans rejoice! Broken Lizard, the warped minds that brought you SXSW 2009 special screening The Slammin' Salmon, return to Texas! Check them out live!

Texas tour dates are:

House of Blues

The Paramount Theatre

Lakewood Theatre

So, if you enjoy hilarity and generally laughing your ass off, you should probably head here to find out more!

The Slammin' Salmon image courtesy of Broken Lizard

SXSW Films on Release - Thursday, October 15

jim — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:11:49 +0000

Theatrical

Garbage Dreams - Community Screening Tour, starts today

DVD/Blu-ray

American Violet - DVD, out now
Drag me to Hell - DVD, Blu-ray out now
Hori Smoku Sailor Jerry - DVD, out now
New World Order - DVD, out now
Objectified - DVD, out now

VOD

Drag me to Hell - Available now

Photo of Adham and Mai Iskander (Garbage Dreams) by Randy Ho

Onsite Registration – Expanded Hours for 2010

adrienne — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 19:08:22 +0000

Can’t wait to pick up your badge and dive into SXSW? This year Interactive, Film, Platinum and Gold registrants can get their badges at the Austin Convention Center starting at 3:00pm on Thursday, March 11th. That’s a day earlier than years past to make your SXSW experience more convenient. For the next seven days registration will open at 9:00am each morning for registrants to get their credentials and ask questions before panels and other fun stuff begins at 9:30am or 10:00am.

Check out the revised schedule for the most current and complete hours of SXSW 2010.

Photo of registration area courtesy of Monica Eck

SXSW alumni Kirsner and Broderick to host Marketing and Distro Crash Course in LA

jim — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 17:33:09 +0000

Want to learn about cutting edge distribution and marketing strategies for your film? Sign up for DISTRIBUTION U: A One-Day Crash Course on the New Rules of Marketing & Distribution.
New media gurus and SXSW alumni Scott Kirsner and Peter Broderick have joined forces to explain the whole damn shooting match.

Topics covered will include customized distribution strategies, using social media, audience building and developing revenue streams. Guest filmmakers will also be in attendance to introduce case studies and personal examples.

This one day course takes place Saturday, November 7 in LA - sign up by this Sunday, October 18 for a special Early Bird Registration rate. Attendees will also receive a copy of Scott's book, Fans, Friends and Followers, as well as a special resource package prepared by Peter.

More info and registration details at: http://distributionu.eventbrite.com/

Photo of Scott Kirsner by Ken Hitchcock

The News Reel - Thursday, October 15, 2009

jim — Thu, 15 Oct 2009 16:55:35 +0000

Winnebago Man - "a captivating portrait of cewebrity"
From Wired's Underwire blog
"Its not the pundits, but the filmmakers who we need to jump start “the new way.”"
From seafar.ca
Responding to "Redacted: A Letter From The Future"
From Filmmaker Magazine
Willie Nelson takes on Broadband
From Wired
Poster unveiled for Richard Linklater's Me and Orson Welles
From Cinematical
Part 3 of a series on documentary websites
From POV Blog
British film rides out the recession
From Uk Film Council

Photo of Winnebago Man's Jack Rebney by Danielle Dawley

Call For Entries - SXSW 2010 High School Film Competition!

jim — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 19:09:59 +0000

Call for entries is now open for the 6th Annual High School Shorts Competition.
The competition is aimed exclusively at Texas students in grades 9 through 12 for the 2009-10 academic year. Submissions will be judged by a panel of independent filmmakers and industry experts. Prizes include SXSW Film registrations for first, second, and third place.

In addition, SXSW 2010 Film Conference, in conjunction with Austin School of Film, will present special, limited film programming for High School students. A special program of non-competition Austin Film School-produced films will also be screened, with filmmakers in attendance to answer all your questions.

Prove you have what it takes and join the filmmaking explosion! Lead the next generation of Texas filmmakers and submit your film now. Entry fee is $10, with a December 18, 2009 deadline, so get that film in the can, and get it in the mail!

First Speakers for SXSW Film 2010 - Gustavo Santaolalla and Gilbert Shelton

jim — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:38:54 +0000

We're excited to announce the first of our many speakers for the SXSW 2010 Film Conference, two legendary, long established artists at the very top of their game - Gustavo Santaolalla and Gilbert Shelton

Academy Award-winning Argentine composer, solo artist and producer Gustavo Santaolalla has scored films as diverse as Babel, Brokeback Mountain and Amores Perros. He has also produced acclaimed albums for the likes of Cafe Tacuba and The Kronos Quartet. Santaolalla's iconic 'electrotango' band Bajofondo, meanwhile, draws from a huge, eclectic sonic palette, and gained an army of fans worldwide. SXSW is delighted to bring you this featured conversation with Gustavo Santaolalla and BMI's Doreen Ringer Ross.

Comics legend Gilbert Shelton has earned a rabid cult following as creator of characters like Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, selling over 40 million comic books in 15 languages. Shelton was a fixture of Austin's 60s psych scene as art director at Vulcan Gas Company, host venue to acts like Janis Joplin. He is currently involved in an animated adaptation of Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers, Grass Roots; The Movie. Join us in welcoming Gilbert for his Austin homecoming, in conversation with Harry Knowles.

Image of Gustavo Santaolalla (top) and Gilbert Shelton (bottom)
courtesy of First Artists Management and Gilbert Shelton

The News Reel - Wednesday, October 14, 2009

jim — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 16:25:01 +0000

Interview with Ondi Timoner, director of SXSW 2009's We Live In Public
From eFilmCritic
“There’s still a significant factor of consumer confusion.” - deciphering the Blu-ray market
From The Wrap
What makes moviegoers tick? A survey
From IndieWIRE
Ad sales looking up for online video
From WatchMojo
When film shoots go wrong - 10 of the worst
From CNN
An interview with Moon director Duncan Jones
From The Quietus
The new Red Peril? Astroboy and the animated left
From IFC.com

Photo of Ondi Timoner by Roseann Dreasher

The News Reel - Tuesday, October 13, 2009

jim — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 16:13:28 +0000

SXSW alum Daniel Junge makes Oscars shortlist with The Last Campaign of Governor Booth Gardner
From Hollywood Reporter
Check out the trailer for Women in Trouble
From Entertainment Weekly's Popwatch
Karina Longworth "on Film Criticism and Professionalism"...
From SpoutBlog
...and Eugene Hernandez on why critics still matter
From IndieWIRE
SXSW 09 films Bomber and The Overbrook Brothers pick up awards at BendFilm Festival in Oregon
From bendfilm.org
"If rock 'n' roll dreams really do come true..." - is Anvil Oscar-bound?
From Yahoo! News
Paranormal Activity - a distribution case study
From Advertising Age
DVR demographics - breaking down the stats
From Variety

Image from Daniel Junge'sThey Killed Sister Dorothy courtesy of Just Media

The News Reel - Monday, October 12, 2009

jim — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 15:54:04 +0000

Congratulations to SXSW '09 world premiere That Evening Sun, winner of Best Narrative Feature at Indie Memphis
From The Bloodshot Eye
SXSW 2009 films Moon and Best Worst Movie score awards at Sitges '09
From sitgesfilmfestival.com
Jason Solomons on the "nubie" films that could "reinvigorate a stale American cinema scene"
From The Observer
AJ Schnack looks at the 2010 Doc Short Oscar Shortlist
From All These Wonderful Things
SXSW '09 alum Jan Harlan and Christian Kubrick discuss the publication of "Stanley Kubrick's Napoleon"
From taschen.com
Ted Hope reflects on SXSW 2009's Adventureland
From Truly Free Film
"Chaos Reigns" - the unexpected rise of an unlikely catchphrase
From variety
Matt Dentler on SXSW 2007 world premiere Frownland
From Matt Dentler's Blog

Photo of Ray McKinnon and Hal Holbrook (That Evening Sun) by Nikki Snodgrass

The News Reel - Friday, October 9, 2009

jim — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 16:48:19 +0000

Interview with Paul Cotter, director of SXSW 09 world premiere Bomber
From Film News Briefs
Nerdcore Rising's MC Frontalot challenges you to a Songfight
From nerdcorerisingmovie.com
Another new poster for Women In Trouble
From Film School Rejects
SXSW 09 doc Burma VJ among nominees for 2009 European Film Award “Prix Arte” for Best Documentary
From Indiewire
The Death of Polaroid - the last one passes its use-by date
From The Telegraph
"Perhaps the leaner-and-meaner studios of today are the new indies"
From Variety
Interview with Peter Esmonde, director of SXSW 2009 world premiere Trimpin: The Sound of Invention
From efilmcritic

Bomber image courtesy of Boris Films

SXSW Films on Release - October 8

jim — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:09:08 +0000

Theatrical

The Yes Men Fix The World - Out now
Beeswax - Friday, October 9 (Austin)
We Live In Public - Friday, October 9 (Austin)
Rock Opera - Saturday, October 10 (Austin - 10 Year Reunion)
The Way We Get By - Limited release, various dates (expansion)

DVD/Blu-ray

Anvil! The Story of Anvil - DVD, out now

VOD

Hell on Wheels - Available now
Trigger Man - Available now

Image courtesy of The Yes Men

Reel Talks: Andrew Bujalski on "Beeswax", Back in Austin!

jim — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 21:05:49 +0000

Andrew Bujalski's critically acclaimed Beeswax received its North American premiere at SXSW 2009 and has since screened at Film Forum in NYC, Nuart in LA, and venues around the country. Shot and set in Austin, Beeswax is a true local production, making great use of Austin crew, cast and location.
We recently caught up with Andrew to see what's next for his film, and to hear the latest news.

Hi Andrew. So what's going on with Beeswax?

It's coming home! We shot the film here in Austin two years ago, premiered it at SXSW this year, and now its having a theatrical release at the Alamo South Lamar beginning on October 9. I'll be doing a Q&A with some local castmembers on opening night. I've been traveling around with it all year, and it's a thrill to now properly bring it to the city of its conception.

For those who don't know, tell us a little about the film.

Beeswax centers on a pair of twin sisters, Jeannie & Lauren (played by real-life twins Tilly & Maggie Hatcher)--Lauren leads an untethered, old-school Austin existence, while pragmatic Jeannie runs a vintage clothing store with an increasingly estranged partner. A brewing confrontration between the partners sets the story in motion as Jeannie turns to an ex-boyfriend, Merrill (Alex Karpovsky), who is recently graduated from law school and all too eager to try to fix her problems as a way of ignoring his own...

Jeannie uses a wheelchair, but this isn't an "inspirational" tale. Few films feature disabled lead characters, and most that do focus on the "struggle" alone--whereas both Tilly (the actress) and I were excited to, in a way we felt we hadn't seen before, present a character who was complex, fully human, and, indeed, had *other* challenges in her life worth considering.

I'm famously bad at synopsizing or pitching, but I believe that the story is ultimately about how we depend on families--the ones we're stuck with by birth, the ones we build for ourselves, & the "beeswax" that holds them all together.

What else lies ahead for Beeswax?

We're currently in the middle of our U.S. theatrical release--after opening in Austin, Houston, and Dallas this coming weekend, we'll be on to a few more cities (Denver, Seattle, Providence, etc) & then putting together some goodies for DVD release next year. I'd love to see the film have a long and prosperous life. If anybody wants to adapt it for a Broadway musical, or a graphic novel, drop me a line...

How was your SXSW experience?

SXSW is always a pleasure, if an exhausting & overwhelming embarrassment of riches. This year, specifically, of course, it was a real delight to get Beeswax up in the Paramount for a hometown crowd--many of the folks who worked on or contributed to the film were in the house for that screening and it was an inspiring afternoon for me.

Any more projects in the pipeline?

Lots more projects, but I'm not sure I know where the pipeline is located these days.

Beeswax opens in Austin this Friday, October 9 at the Alamo South Lamar. Andrew and guests will be in attendance for a Q&A. For more info head to the Alamo website, and check out the official Beeswax site here.

Photo of Andrew Bujalski by Cheree Franco. Courtesy of The Cinema Guild.

The News Reel - Thursday, October 8, 2009

jim — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 16:51:41 +0000

A conversation with Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie director Jay Delaney
From Lake Effect News
BBC tightens rules on swearing and violence in the media
From The Guardian
"A film like this can only get made on a million favors" - Bujalski's Beeswax
From Austin360.com
A look at "Beautiful Loser" Mike Mills' first short film
From SlashFilm
Free speech under the microscope following a controversial screening at the University of Maryland
From The Baltimore Sun
The British indie film invasion
From Salon
A new trailer for Richard Linklater's Me and Orson Welles
From We Are Movie Geeks

Image from Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories

The News Reel - Wednesday, October 7, 2009

jim — Wed, 07 Oct 2009 16:19:12 +0000

SXSW alum Trimpin takes the West Coast - and local news - by storm
From KGO-TV
Video interview with Passing Strange director Spike Lee
From The Guardian
SXSW alumni Red Bucket Films relaunch website, with new Talk Show
From Red Bucket Films
New Yorkers, check out SXSW 2009's The Yes Men Fix The World, opening tonight at Film Forum
From The Yes Men
3D TV - coming soon to a living-room near you
From Cinematical
Animator Henry Selick parts company with Laika, the studio he helped establish
From Variety
A new interview with We Live In Public director Ondi Timoner
From The Hot Blog

The News Reel - Tuesday, October 6, 2009

jim — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:48:54 +0000

SXSW 2009's The Way We Get By to screen at Capitol Hill
From documentary.org
Moon director Duncan Jones offers info on his new project (mild spoilers)
From Digital Spy
Funding resources for documentary filmmakers
From POV Blog
Discovering online video - four new methods
From Read Write Web
"An honest-to-goodness discussion on female filmmakers"
From Film School Rejects
Anvil! The Story of Anvil released today on DVD - check out a conversation with the band
From Popmatters
Polanski - no mercy from Swiss authorities
From Variety

Image of Aron Gaudet (The Way We Get By) by Caren Hill

Hot Opportunity: Film Big Bag Sponsorship

val — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 16:17:01 +0000

Need to grab the attention of the SXSW attendees? Contact our Film Sales Representative about sponsoring the Film Big Bag. This premier marketing opportunity is distributed to all Film, Gold and Platinum SXSW attendees, a dispersion figure thought to reach 8,000 in 2010. While these numbers are appealing, the Film Big Bag has a staying power beyond the Festival and Trade Show. With unique artwork from a famed film celebrity like Quentin Tarantino or Mike Judge, the bag is as fashionable as it is durable and thus guaranteed to warrant constant post festival usage.
Photo: Film Big Bag courtesy of Jenn Soto

The News Reel - Monday, October 5, 2009

jim — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 16:27:38 +0000

A new review of SXSW 2009 world premiere Best Worst Movie
From Twitch
SXSW alum Scott Kirsner looks at "the state of indie film online"
From CinemaTech
Hollywood - Keep fighting the good fight
From The Guardian
"Brands have to start using video as an interactive tool"
From Online Video Watch
Cutting out the middleman - Zoe Keating and the 3 elements of developing a digital audience
From Thompson on Hollywood
The ups and downs of Miramax
From The Hollywood Reporter
Inside Pixar - adding a new dimension to Toy Story
From New York Times
In praise of...theater hopping?
From Cinematical

Image courtesy of Best Worst Movie

SXSW Stories: Ali Cherry

andrew — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 19:34:01 +0000

We find it hard, sometimes, to explain the type of experience people have at SXSW every year. Maybe because we're biased, maybe because we're too close to the event. So it's best if we let those who attend SXSW tell it for us. Today, Ali Cherry of Beaconfire Consulting gives us her story.

"SXSW has been playfully dubbed "spring break for geeks" and having gone this year, I can totally see why. The Interactive conference was a unique opportunity for cross-industry learning among 11,000 web geeks from every area of the web. As a nonprofit consultant who bridges the nonprofit and for-profit world on a daily basis, I am already attracted to the idea of “Robin Hood” learning (as Katya Andresen might call it), but I couldn’t have imagined the mental fireworks that are set off when you put programmers, fundraisers, gamers, designers and entrepreneurs under one roof."

Ali Cherry - Beaconfire Consulting

The News Reel - Friday, October 2, 2009

jim — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 16:06:16 +0000

SXSW alum Joe Swanberg reveals his new birthday suit
From Funny or Die
Balls Across America - Yes Man back in business after charges dismissed
From The Yes Men
UK film education body takes on "the digital age"
From UK Film Council
Seeking out the entertainment Game Changers
From The Huffington Post
SXSW 2009's Humpday goes international
From The Arts Desk
Antonio Campos spills more info on his SXSW 2009 debut Afterschool, just released by IFC
From IndieWIRE
Sony threatens to revolutionize 3D with a new single-lens camera
From Digital Spy

Image from Funny or Die

SXSW Films on Release - October 1

jim — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 19:47:53 +0000

Theatrical

Afterschool - Friday, October 2

DVD/Blu-ray

Frownland - DVD, out now
Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie - DVD, out now
Secrecy - DVD, out now

Anvil! The Story of Anvil - VH1, Saturday, October 3

VOD

Afterschool - Available now

Afterschool Image courtesy of IFC

Jeffrey Tambor's Acting Workshop at SXSW 2009

jim — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:57:55 +0000

The return of Jeffrey Tambor's Acting Workshop was a real highlight at SXSW Film 2009. If you missed it, or if you just need a refresher, take a look at the video excerpt below, featuring actors Jess Weixler (Alexander the Last) and Mark Reeb (The Overbrook Brothers).

If you like what you see, the full clip is available here on our YouTube channel, so check it out!

The News Reel - Thursday, October 1, 2009

jim — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 16:31:16 +0000

Humpday director Lynn Shelton talks to Jason Solomons in the Film Weekly podcast
From The Guardian
"What if the future is about more narrow-niche movies?"
From Thompson on Hollywood
The (inadvertent) Hollywood guide to web piracy
From All Things Digital
(500) Days of Summer director Marc Webb lines up his next project
From Cinematical
Interview with Afterschooldirector Antonio Campos
From Filmmaker Magazine
Copyright and commercials - to embed, or not to embed?
From MovieMaker
New film web resource OpenIndie attempts to meet changing demands of the modern audience
From IndieWIRE

Humpday image courtesy of Magnolia Pictures

Reel Talks - Jay Delaney, Director of "Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie"

jim — Thu, 01 Oct 2009 15:30:47 +0000

Jay Delaney's documentary Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie received its world premiere at SXSW 2008, part of the 'Round Midnight sidebar.
We recently caught up with Jay to find out more about his post-SXSW experience.

Hi Jay. So, what's going on with Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie right now?

I'm thrilled to say that the DVD came out this week and is available directly from Oscilloscope and on Amazon, Borders, B&N, and Netflix. Also working on getting up a blog that chronicles the whole experience from shoot to world premiere at SXSW to distribution to DVD and beyond!

How has your SXSW experience helped?

SXSW was truly the launch pad for everything. Premiering there put my film on people's radar. People like Adam Yauch and David Fenkel of Oscilloscope Pictures who saw it at the Alamo Theater screenings and ultimately acquired the film. In addition, the camaraderie there was and is fantastic. I met other filmmakers there who've become true friends. So not only has it helped with Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie, but it's helped me to grow my circle of filmmaker friends.

Any advice for SXSW newbies?

Make the most of every minute in Austin during the festival. Talk to people, share stories and ideas with other filmmakers, and HAVE FUN. It's a fantastically collaborative environment. One of my favorite things about SXSW is how approachable everyone is, including lots of very important people in the indie film industry. I learned so much from the panels, and I highly suggest sitting in on several of them. I'd also recommend investing more $$ in postcards than posters.

Photo of Dallas Gilbert, Jay Delaney and Wayne Burton by Erin Kitzinger

You’ve Got Your Badge… Have You Got Your Bed?

adrienne — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 18:54:35 +0000

Now that you’ve registered for SXSW don’t miss out on the SXSW group rates at one of the fifty great Austin hotels through the SXSW Housing Desk. The most popular downtown properties are already selling out and more will fill up every day.

Booking your hotel is a simple two-step process:

First – browse the list of available hotels to find one that suits your needs. Clicking on a hotel name will open a detailed hotel amenities page describing the hotel category, distance from the Convention Center, internet service, food options, etc.

Second – once you’ve picked the perfect place go to your Shopping Cart and click the green button to book your hotel. It’s that easy! (If you don’t have access to the Shopping Cart that was used for your registration go to my.sxsw.com, select “edit my profile” and use the link to request a new reservation).

Even if you’re not completely sure about your travel dates, reservations can be changed without penalty up to the week of SXSW, (your housing confirmation will specify the exact change and cancel policy for your hotel), so it’s best to take care of your hotel needs now.

Don’t forget to look for the bus icon on the hotel list signifying a property on the R & R Hotel Shuttle providing 5 days of unlimited shuttle service for $40 or 9 days for $60.

Still not sure how to book a room? Email the friendly folks at the SXSW Housing Desk or give them a call (512-467-7979) and they’ll find exactly the right accommodations for you.

The News Reel - Wednesday, September 30, 2009

jim — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 14:44:34 +0000

Writer Kevin Sampson on SXSW 2009's Awaydays
From Female First
Film marketers "need to embrace social networks or risk being ignored"
From Variety
Limewire - next casualty of the P2P wars?
From NewTeeVee
"It's up to you to preserve an active film culture in this country"
From Truly Free Film
3D, VOD, Interactive TV - where television is headed
From The Telegraph
Malaysia bans Sacha Baron Cohen's "raunchy" Bruno
From Monsters and Critics
SXSW 09's Moon picks up awards at Athens International Film Festival
From Cineuropa
Crowdsourcing and contests - the future of recommending movies
From The Independent

Awaydays image courtesy of Red Union Films

Shuttle Your Film Brand Around Town

val — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 17:56:05 +0000

Exposure is paramount in marketing. Gaining exposure at SXSW has never been easier. One of the best marketing opportunities available is the sponsorship of the Film Festival Shuttle Bus. This traveling billboard ferries Film registrants from the Austin Convention Center to film showings throughout Austin. With customizable options, the Film Festival Shuttle will become a transient marketplace for your company. For five days, your logo will be in front of thousands of Film registrants as well as the hip citizens of Austin.

This premiere marketing opportunity will not last long. Contact our Film Sales Representative, Sara Malek today!

The News Reel - Tuesday, September 29, 2009

jim — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:24:33 +0000

Austinites, check out SXSW 2008 world premiere Beautiful Losers at Alamo Ritz
From originalalamo.com
A dispatch from the Indie Summit
From IndieWIRE
"A grand assembly of filmmakers, actors and producers" steps up in support of Polanski
From IndieWIRE
Pinny Grylls' SXSWclick 2009 winner Peter and Ben selected by Werner Herzog as winner of his Shooting People contest
From Shooting People
SXSW 2008 world premiere Not Your Typical Bigfoot Movie released on DVD
From Oscilloscope
Karina Longworth weighs in on the Frownland DVD
From SpoutBlog
SXSW - one of the many reasons to visit Austin
From New York Times
SXSW 2009's The Horse Boy reviewed
From Slant

Image courtesy of Sidetrack Films

The News Reel - Monday, September 28, 2009

jim — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 16:53:55 +0000

Roman Polanski arrested in Switzerland on 31-year-old statutory rape charge
From BBC News
SXSW World Premiere Frownland drops on DVD
From Factory 25
Product placement arrives on British Television
From Open Magazine
"Does anyone really want to watch a full-length film on their mobile phone?"
From ReadWriteWeb
"The Future of Doc Distribution"
From Stranger Than Fiction
Digital cinema picks up the pace in Europe
From Variety
Hulu draws fire for delivering free content
From Contentinople
Check out these Levis commercials by Sin Nombre director Cary Fukunaga
From Cinematical

Image courtesy of Titan Books

The News Reel - Friday, September 25, 2009

jim — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 17:22:34 +0000

SXSW alum Kevin Smith publishes "Shootin' the Shit With Kevin Smith
From JoBlo
“The model has got to change,” - Setting the Indie Film world to rights
From IndieWIRE
Criterion brings HD cinema to All Tomorrow's Parties, featuring SXSW Alum Jim Jarmusch
From Criterion
Creation, and "the future of British Cinema"
From The Guardian
Bob Schneider adopts a DIY approach to take his music directly to the fans
From Austin360
"The Worst of the Worst" - 100 lowest reviewed movies
From Rotten Tomatoes
A Q&A with Died Young, Stayed Pretty's Eileen Yaghoobian
From Cleveland Bachelor

Image courtesy of Titan Books

Register By Midnight and Save up to 30%!

melissa — Fri, 25 Sep 2009 15:29:58 +0000

If you like to save money (and who doesn't?) then you'd better hurry, because today is the first registration deadline of SXSW 2010. Take advantage of the early bird discount by registering before 11:59pm Central. You can save up to 30% on the walk-up rate for all badges if you purchase your badge today.

And registering by the first deadline gets you an early crack at all the choice hotels in Austin. If you’ve got your heart set on your favorite property – the Hilton, Four Seasons, Radisson, Hyatt, Embassy Suites, Driskill, Omni, InterContinental, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton, Sheraton or another hotel close to the action – register now and book a reservation through the SXSW Housing Desk before these popular hotels sell out.

In addition to the registration deadline, today is also the last day for 20% off all marketing assets. At stake are hundreds and hundreds of dollars in possible savings on ads in SXSWorld Magazines and Conference Program Directories. An unparalleled marketing opportunity, these publications will be in the hands of the most important people in your industry. In addition to this, today is also the last day you can take advantage of the cheapest deals for Trade Show Stands. By purchasing a Trade Show Stand, you position yourself to be in direct contact with potential partners, clients, and / or customers. Contact one of our Sales Representatives to find out how you can benefit from these amazing deals.

SXSW Films on Release - September 24

jim — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 20:39:05 +0000

Theatrical

The Horse Boy - Limited release, various dates (expansion)
The Way We Get By - Limited release, various dates (expansion)

DVD/Blu-ray

In a Dream - DVD, September 29
In a Dream Special Edition - DVD pre-order, October

Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo - Cinemax HD, September 25 (repeat)

VOD

Ong Bak 2 - September 25

Image from In a Dream courtesy of Herzliya Films

What is SXSW: A Video

melissa — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 18:57:42 +0000

What is SXSW? Good question. Because SXSW is so many things to so many people, there is no simple answer. Trying to understand how the event works or the sheer size of it can be overwhelming. How do you convey 1,987 Music showcases, 912 Interactive speakers and 260 films in a few words?

We created the video below to give people unfamiliar with SXSW a chance to see the event before coming to Austin. If a picture is worth a thousand words, we hope this short film speaks volumes.

If you would like to see more SXSW events, informational videos, film trailers or music videos, be sure to check out the SXSW YouTube Channel.

The News Reel - Thursday, September 24, 2009

jim — Thu, 24 Sep 2009 15:25:54 +0000

Close-up on Oscilloscope, home to SXSW films including Frontrunners
From Film Journal
SXSW Alum David Lowery reviews fellow alum Bob Byington's Harmony and Me
From Hammer To Nail
Film Weekly podcast talks to SXSW alum Spike Lee
From The Guardian
SXSW 09 world premiere Made in China, wins Audience Award at Oldenburg Film Festival
From Hollywood Reporter
Cinematical talks to Fantastic Fest/Alamo Drafthouse honcho and SXSW alum Tim League
From Cinematical
Foreign Language Oscar submissions mounting up, including SXSW 09's Involuntary
From IndieWIRE
Getting physical - "if action movies obeyed Newton"
From Wired

Frontrunner image courtesy of Oscilloscope

It’s About the Conference… Look, Listen, and Learn

russell — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 19:38:24 +0000

When you register for SXSW you’re getting a license to learn first-hand from industry notables with hard-won experience navigating the worlds of music, film, and interactive media. Registrants have countless opportunities to network with respected professionals at panels and other conference-related events.

At SXSW 2009 Quincy Jones regaled Music and Platinum badgeholders with insider stories from a multiple Grammy/Oscar/Emmy-award winning career in music, film, and television. For 2010—the SXSW Music Conference is using the online PanelPicker to generate panels programming based on the SXSW music community’s interests. A first-hand example of crowd-sourcing. The buzz in the music biz right now is direct-to-fan marketing and several companies at the 2010 Music Conference will address the different ways artists can establish and cultivate relationships with their fans without a middleman.

The SXSW Film Conference has played host to visionaries like Todd Haynes, Dennis Hopper, Guillermo del Toro, Richard Linklater, Michael Moore, Ron Howard, Robert Rodriguez, John Sayles – the list goes on. Our diverse program of Panels, Mentor Sessions (one-on-one), and Mini-Meetings will continue providing opportunities to get up close and personal with film industry leaders. And, new for 2010, we’re adding new Keynote Interviews that will provide in-depth discussions with ground-breaking filmmakers. Straight from the horse’s mouth.

The heart of the SXSW Interactive Festival has always been the exciting diversity of daytime programming and the dynamic speakers drawn to the event. SXSW Interactive’s first announced round of speakers for 2010 includes Opening Speaker danah boyd as well as DanAriely, Paul Boag, David Heinemeier Hansson, Molly E. Holzschlag, Joi Ito, Clay Shirky and Gary Vaynerchuck. In addition to our popular solo and dual presentations, panels, Core Conversations and Salons, the 2010 event will feature some exciting new types of sessions including workshops and a few other surprises.

The Conference is the thing… register before the March 25th registration discount deadline to look, listen, and learn at SXSW 2010.

The News Reel - Wednesday, September 23, 2009

jim — Wed, 23 Sep 2009 15:31:42 +0000

Michael Tully talks to Jody Hill, director of SXSW 09 premiere Observe and Report
From Hammer to Nail
"Every movie ever made on every screen everywhere" - NetFlix breaks out
From Wired
Star of SXSW 09's The Yes Men Fix The World arrested in New York City
From Gothamist
New posters unveiled for SXSW 2009 world premiere Women in Trouble
From Film School Rejects
"The exhilaration of being shot at unsuccessfully" - Werner Herzog's film school opens for business
From The Guardian
"A testament to small miracles" - The Horse Boy reviewed
From Slackerwood
Eric J. Adams and Gabriel Sunday of SXSW 2009's My Suicide interviewed
From Petaluma260.com
15 cities around the world to host simultaneous premieres of Michael Jackson doc
From The Telegraph

Photo of Jody Hill by Jennifer Bradford

SXSW Discount @ Fantastic Fest 2009!

jim — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 21:34:36 +0000

This week sees the launch of Fantastic Fest 2009. Film fans of a nocturnal persuasion might remember SXSW Presents: Fantastic Fest @ Midnight, a special late-night programming thread at SXSW 2009.
Well get ready for the big kahuna, when the full Fantastic Fest opens this Thursday, September 24. Even better, SXSW respondents can take advantage of, well, fantastic discounts!

Discounted tickets are available for gala screenings at the glorious Paramount Theater, with special guests in attendance.
Receive $8 off the ticket price for The Vampire's Assistant, and $5 off Gentlemen Broncos, Zombieland, and Survival of the Dead.
Simply follow the links for the screenings below and enter the discount code CYCLOPS at the ticket selection page:

Gentlemen Broncos with stars Jemaine Clement, Sam Rockwell, Mike White and filmmakers Jared & Jerusha Hess LIVE!
Thur, Sept 24, 7pm
Click here for tix
Zombieland with stars Woody Harrelson, Jesse Eisenberg, Emma Stone and director Ruben Fleischer LIVE!
Fri, Sept 25, 6:45pm
Click here for tix
The Vampire's Assistant with stars John C. Reilly, Josh Hutcherson, Chris Johnson and Chris Massoglia LIVE!
Sat, Sept 26, 6:45pm
Click here for tix
Survival of the Dead with director George A. Romero, director of photography Adam Swica and editor Michael Doherty LIVE!
Sat, Sept 26, 9:45pm
Click here for tix

So what are you waiting for? Get clicking, and remember to head over to the official Fantastic Fest site, where you can check out trailers, schedules and other good stuff.
See you there!

Image from Gentlemen Broncos courtesy of Fox Searchlight

Throw a Party, Make (Film) Friends

val — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 20:19:15 +0000

Each year, the opening night of SXSW kicks off with a massive Film Festival party. Open to all Film, Gold and Platinum registrants, hosting this official SXSW event is an enviable position. A full tilt celebration with complimentary hors d'oeuvers, drinks, and entertainment, the Opening Night Party remains a great place to catch up with old friends or make new contacts. This evening soiree is a treat for both the guests and the hosts.

As it immediately follows the opening night film premiere at the Paramount Theater, becoming the titled sponsor of this consummate event is an exciting opportunity. If you are interested in capitalizing on this one of a kind chance, please contact our Sales Representative, Sara Malek today.
Photo: Film Opening Party courtesy of Jenn Soto

The News Reel - Tuesday, September 22, 2009

jim — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 16:22:09 +0000

A profile of the Kuchars, subject of SXSW 2009's It Came From Kuchar
From The Guardian
SXSW alum Ti West to launch a webseries, Dead and Lonely
From Shock Till You Drop
Peter Broderick's "Ten Principles of Hybrid Distribution"
From IndieWIRE
Roger Ebert weighs in on the burgeoning Indie crisis
From Chicago Sun-Times
SXSW 09 poster doc Died Young, Stayed Pretty continues to travel around the country
From Washington Examiner
Check out some alternative artwork for SXSW 2009's Moon
From Film School Rejects
Coraline studio dismantles computer animation department
From Dark Horizons

Image of George Kuchar courtesy of Tigerlily Pictures

Friday, September 25 is the First Registration Deadline

hugh — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 17:22:31 +0000

Want to attend SXSW in 2010 for the least-expensive price possible? Then take advantage of the early bird discount by registering before the end of the day on Friday, September 25. You can save $155 on the walk-up rate for all Music, Film, Interactive and Gold badges, and save $305 on a Platinum badge, when you register by Friday.

That's right, you can see all the daytime programming, incredible Trade Shows, Music showcases, Film screenings, plus tons of amazing evening events at a steep discount if you register before Friday. So what are you waiting for?

The News Reel - Monday, September 21, 2009

jim — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:00:25 +0000

IFC picks up SXSW 2009's Afterschool
From The Wrap
"The old independent market is over. A new one will take its place" - Anne Thompson on the "Indie Bloodbath"
From Thompson on Hollywood
Check out the short that inspired SXSW 2009 Midnighter Grace
From Shock Till You Drop
Interview with Jennifer Steinman, director of SXSW 2009's Motherland
From Cinema Without Borders
Winners of the 61st Emmy's announced
From Hollywood Reporter
Hulu - past, present and future?
From Web TV Wire
SXSW 2009's The Horse Boy attracts attention in the UK
From The Telegraph

Image courtesy of IFC

SXSW @ TIFF - When Acronyms Collide!

jim — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 19:16:11 +0000

The SXSW programming team has just returned from a successful trip to the 2009 Toronto International Film Festival, along with thousands of international film delegates, stars, audiences...and a lot of films.

Among them were plenty of new works by SXSW alumni, including:

Harmony Korine with Trash Humpers - his last film Mister Lonely received its US Premiere at SXSW 2008.
Joe Dante (Trailers From Hell, SXSW 2009) was also on hand with his new film The Hole
Ian Fitzgibbon (A Film With Me In It, SXSW 2009), with Perrier's Bounty.
Chris Smith (Home Movie, SXSW 2002) presenting his doc Collapse
Petra Epperlein and Michael Tucker (Bulletproof Salesman, 2008) with How To Fold A Flag.

SXSW also drew a lot of attention for its karaoke party: "SXSW@TIFF - when acronyms collide!"
Orchestrated by Film Sales Co. aka DJ Michael Lerman, the party drew many filmmakers, journalists, distributors and other industry folk including including producer Ben Barenholtz, IndieWIRE's Eugene Hernandez, and Sony Picture Classics' Dylan Leiner.

However, the most recognizable (and tweeted-about) guest to seize the mic was Samantha Morton, in Toronto to present her directorial debut, The Unloved. Her song choice? "Everybody Wants to Rule The World" by Tears for Fears.

Needless to say, the event was a total blast, but don't just take our word for it - see what E!, IndieWIRE and Cinematical are saying, and check out some photos here.

Photo of Ben Barenholtz and Samantha Morton courtesy of Brian Brooks, IndieWIRE

The News Reel - Friday, September 18, 2009

jim — Fri, 18 Sep 2009 16:34:12 +0000

IndieWIRE talks to SXSW alum and Trash Humpers director Harmony Korine
From IndieWIRE
Anatomy of a fall festival season - Venice, Telluride, Toronto
From Variety
Stereoscopic style - 3D goes designer
From Variety
Casting details emerge for Richard Linklater's Liars A-E
From The Hollywood Reporter
Check out the UK Trailer for Linklater's Me And Orson Welles
From The Guardian
"Hollywood's 3-D bottleneck may be nearing an end"
From LA Times
SXSW alum Spike Lee interviewed ahead of a London retrospective
From The Independent
Curb Your Enthusiasm returns to screens this Sunday, with added Seinfeld!

Photo of Harmony Korine courtesy of O'Salvation

SXSW Films on Release - September 17

jim — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 22:24:00 +0000

Theatrical

Youssou N'Dour: I Bring What I Love - Limited release (expansion)

Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo - Cinemax HD, September 17 and 25

DVD

Sounds Like Teen Spirit - UK DVD retail

Image from Sounds Like Teen Spirit courtesy of Intandem Films

The News Reel - Thursday, September 17, 2009

jim — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 18:46:48 +0000

Star-powered karaoke and film folk galore as SXSW hits TIFF
From E!
SXSW alum Ti West's Cabin Fever 2 finally reaching audiences
From Austin Chronicle
SXSW 2009's Afterschool to hit theaters and VOD - check out the trailer
From CHUD
Making money from web video
From All Things Digital
"18 Actions Towards A Sustainable Truly Free Film Community"
From Truly Free Film
This PSA is brought to you by...Lars Von Trier?
From JoBlo

Photo of Eugene Hernandez and Brian Brooks by Janet Pierson

Three Reasons to Register by September 25th!

melissa — Thu, 17 Sep 2009 17:47:11 +0000

September 25th is the first SXSW registration deadline. Why register now -- with SXSW 2010 still six months away?

Three good reasons to act now:

Registration savings! SXSW badges will never be a better bargain than they are today. With savings of 20% - 30% off the walk-up registration fee the current badge price is an amazing value for the premier conference, festival, and trade exhibition of 2010. Whether you want a Platinum badge (for Music, Film, and Interactive), a Gold badge (for Film and Interactive), or a single industry badge (Music or Film or Interactive) – the price is right.

Hotel choices! With rooms blocked at over 50 hotels SXSW has ensured there will be plenty of accommodations for everyone. But if you’ve got your heart set on your favorite property – the Hilton, Four Seasons, Radisson, Hyatt, Embassy Suites, Driskill, Omni, InterContinental, Hilton Garden Inn, Hampton, Sheraton or another hotel close to the action –register now and book a reservation through the SXSW Housing Desk before the most popular hotels sell out.

Cheap airfares! Major airlines are knocking down fares for travel in Spring 2010 but the sale won’t last long. Fare shop with your favorite airline or travel site and check out the bargains available from your hometown. Last time we looked roundtrip travel to Austin from New York and Los Angeles could be booked for under $250. It won’t get any cheaper than that.

The deadline is just around the corner, so register and book your hotel and travel before September 25th to save money and make 2010 your best South by Southwest experience ever.

Photo: Interior of the Driskill Hotel

The News Reel - Wednesday, September 16, 2009

jim — Wed, 16 Sep 2009 08:04:06 +0000

SXGlobal 2009's Involuntary chosen to represent Sweden at the Oscars 2010
From Variety
"Is an Academy Awards category for Best 3-D Film inevitable?"
From Cinematical
Harlan Ellison will not read your f***ing script
From Cinematical
The 10 most pirated BitTorrent movies
From Torrent Freak
Thoughts on the future of SXSW 2009's Me and Orson Welles
From LA Times
Song titles as film titles - the rules
From MovieMaker

Image from Involuntary courtesy of The Coproduction office

The News Reel - Tuesday, September 15, 2009

jim — Tue, 15 Sep 2009 05:46:13 +0000

Strong SXSW alum presence in the 2009 Nonfiction Feature Honor Roll
From All These Wonderful Things
Sad news as Patrick Swayze dies, age 57
From LA Times
"We need to be watching, talking about and Tweeting about the movies that mean something to us"
From IndieWIRE
New art from SXSW alum Duncan Jones Moon follow up Mute
From Quiet Earth
Disneying London - mouse money lights up the British capitol
From The Independent
A closer look at SXSW 2009's We Live In Public
From NPR

Image from The Way We Get By courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics

Big Branding with the Film Big Bag

val — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:58:23 +0000

Though there are a myriad of options for marketing your business at SXSW, the longevity of sponsoring the SXSW Film Big Bag is unparalleled. Made from 100% all natural cotton canvas, the bags feature your company logo on one side and original artwork by a renowned artist on the opposite side. A cursory glance at previous artists and names like Quentin Tarantino, Mike Judge, and Todd MacFarlane immediately jump out.

This unique marketing opportunity is distributed to all Film, Gold and Platinum SXSW attendees, a dispersion figure thought to reach 8,000 in 2010. While these numbers are appealing, the Film Big Bag has a staying power beyond the Festival and Trade Show. Though many marketing opportunities are specifically geared for the event itself, the Film Big Bag is a highly sought after and long-lasting keepsake. Durable and fashionable, the Film Big Bag continues to give your company additional exposure each and every day of its use after the festival. Contact our Sales Representative, Sara Malek today to find out how you can capitalize off this amazing opportunity.
Photo: Film Big Bag on the move courtesy of Jenn Soto

The News Reel - Monday, September 14, 2009

jim — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 07:32:47 +0000

Check out the trailer for SXSW 09's Made In China
From Quiet Earth
SXSW alum Liesl Copland sets theater owners minds at ease
From IndieWIRE
A letter from Rupert Isaacson, producer of The Horse Boy
From Passion For Cinema
A new interview with Robb Reiner, star of Anvil! The Story of Anvil
From The Outland Institute
Japan pursues a pay-as-you-watch viewing model for DVDs
From Variety
27 movies made about making movies
From A.V.Club

Image from Made in China courtesy of Beachwood Pictures

The News Reel - Friday, September 11, 2009

jim — Fri, 11 Sep 2009 04:13:05 +0000

SXSW alum Gerald Peary interviewed
From BU Today
SXSW 09 world premiere The Way We Get By goes home
From Bangor Daily News
SXSW 2009's Soul Power reviewed
From Kentucky.com
Europa Cinemas cross the ocean
From Variety
Where to watch TV from the Fall season online
From Mashable
Check out this video to a track from SXSW 09's Berlin Calling
From A Real Fake

Image of Gerald Peary courtesy of AG Films

The News Reel - Thursday, September 10, 2009

jim — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 14:16:00 +0000

Richard Linklater's Me and Orson Welles gets a release date
From IndieWIRE
"An unacknowledged Brit horror genre of remarkable ingenuity and power"
From The Guardian
Extra credit - life as a ‘supporting artist’
From The Telegraph
Interview with Fenton Bailey, producer of The Last Beekeeper
From Planet Green
The art of the DVD commentary
From IFC
Tough times for studio speciality divisions
From Variety
"The Internet Guide To The Movie Addict"
From MakeUseOf.com

<Image from Me And Orson Welles courtesy of CinemaNX Films One Ltd

SXSW Films on Release - September 10

jim — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:14:54 +0000

Theatrical

The Horse Boy - Limited release (see website for dates)

DVD

The Least of These - Rental
Grace - DVD and Blu-ray Retail
Berlin Calling - DVD Retail

Web

Crude Independence - iTunes download (pre-order)

Image from The Horse Boy courtesy of Zeitgeist

The News Reel - Wednesday, September 9, 2009

jim — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 16:47:15 +0000

ThinkFilm co-founder Mark Urman launches Paladin, his new distro outfit. Roster includes SXSW 09's Splinterheads
From Variety
Mark Boal receives Gucci Group Award for his screenplay for The Hurt Locker
From The Hollywood Reporter
Dissecting the Film Festival phenomenon
From Moving Image Source
"How To Survive The Current Indie Producer Hell"
From Truly Free Film
Early YouTube rentals business forecast could be jumping the gun
From Business Insider
Redeeming the remakes - a defense...kind of...
From Popwatch
The Hierarchy of Digital Distractions
From Mashable
SXSW 2009's Crude Independence available for DVD and iTunes pre-order
From couple3.com

Photo from Splinterheads world premiere courtesy of Kara Young

The News Reel - Tuesday, September 8, 2009

jim — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 16:13:03 +0000

A BBC radio adaptation of SXSW 2009's Pontypool
From BBC World Service via Horror Squad
Online distro outfit Content Republic to digitally distribute over 60 classic titles
From Variety
A feature, and trailer, for SXSW 2009 award-winner The Horse Boy
From The Examiner
The Red Peril - studios worry about the growth of DVD vending machines
From The New York Times
Summer box office defies recession, thanks to 3D onslaught
From Hollywood Reporter
Check out the trailer for SXSW '09 Midnighter Lake Mungo
From Twitch
One exabyte - a billion gigabytes - of online video to be consumed by 2017
From ReadWriteWeb

Image from Pontypool courtesy of Maple Pictures

The News Reel - Monday, September 7, 2009

jim — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 15:33:06 +0000

A closer look at SXSW 2009 world premiere Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo
From The Examiner
Lessons learned from the summer film season
From The LA Times
Part 1 of a huge interview with Extract director and SXSW alum Mike Judge
From /Film
Lance Weiler explains "why audiences are key to cross-media creation"
From Power To The Pixel
Colombia breathes new life into 22 classic film noirs
From Cinematical
The death of unique? The art and commerce of digital reproduction
From The New York Times
Tooble.tv, a fascinating tool that plays footsie with all kinds of copyright law
From ReadWriteStart

Photo from Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo by Shane Brown

PanelPicker Voting Deadline Extended Through Weekend

hugh — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 18:46:26 +0000

If you still haven't voted for your favorite proposals on the SXSW PanelPicker interface, then you are in luck. We have decided to keep the voting interface up and running through the Labor Day weekend -- but the gates will absolutely close at 11:59 CST on Monday evening, September 7. Don't forget to use the search options button and the hot list functionality (at the top left corner of the interface) to help filter through submissions.

Make sure to browse all the cool ideas that have been suggested for the SXSW Film Conference, SXSW Music Conference, and SXSW Interactive Festival. Happy Labor Day weekend of PanelPicker voting!

The News Reel - Friday, September 4, 2009

jim — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 17:13:34 +0000

Interview with Mila Kunis, star of Extract, which is released today
From Collider
A hundred years of special effects in 5 minutes
Via Kottke.org
An "all-singing, all-dancing" promo for the UK release of (500) Days of Summer
From Digital Spy
Beavis and Butthead in a nursing home?
From Cinema Blend
An interview with Stew and Spike Lee, of Passing Strange
From The A.V. Club
If you run a film club or society, check out Ted Hope's new project
From Truly Free Film
Watch out for SXSW alum Kevin Smith's "Twitter Q&A fest"
From Popwatch

Image courtesy of Fox Searchlight

Friday Deadline: One More Day for 2010 PanelPicker Voting

hugh — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 21:07:37 +0000

What programming and speakers do you want to see at the 2010 SXSW Interactive Festival. You've got one more day to contribute your two cents to this process by voting on your favorite proposals via the PanelPicker voting interface (and if a particular idea really captures your attention, then be sure to write a few words in the comments section of this proposal).

The polls close at 11:59 pm CST on Friday, September 4 -- so don't miss out on your chance to weigh in on the look and feel of SXSW 2010.

SXSW Films on Release - September 3

jim — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 17:49:03 +0000

Theatrical

Extract - General release

DVD

Goliath - Out Now (Rental only)
The Toe Tactic - Out Now
Sin Nombre - Out Now

Web

Nerdcore Rising - Via B-Side, launches September 4

Image courtesy of Lionsgate

The News Reel - Thursday, September 3, 2009

jim — Thu, 03 Sep 2009 16:45:12 +0000

Austinites, check out the 20th anniversary "Best of Austin" in the new Chronicle
From Austin Chronicle
Article on SXSW 2009 doc feature Strongman
From New Jersey Monthly
A closer look at SXSW 2009's Died Young, Stayed Pretty
From Nashville Scene
A conversation with SXSW alum Geoff Marslett
From austin360.com
Mike Judge interviewed ahead of tomorrow's release of Extract
From Film School Rejects
SXSW 2008 world premiere Nerdcore Rising picked up by B-side
From IndieWIRE
Google gears up to launch YouTube online rental scheme
From Business Insider

Image courtesy of the Austin Chronicle

The News Reel - Wednesday, September 2, 2009

jim — Wed, 02 Sep 2009 17:04:39 +0000

A biting critique of Mike Judge's Extract, presented by Film Forum with Beavis and Butthead
From Collider
SXSW 2009's Mine picked up for theatrical, DVD and VOD release by Film Movement
From ioncinema
Them and Orson Welles - reflections on a legendary director, inspiration for SXSW alum Richard Linklater's latest film
From The Independent
Know Your Mushrooms from SXSW 2009 is released on...USB?
From IndieWIRE
An interview with SXSW alum Zooey Deschanel ahead of the UK release of (500) Days of Summer
From The Independent
The break-up that inspired (500) Days of Summer - who is Jenny Beckman?
From Cinematical
American Filmmakers banned from entering Beijing Independent Film Festival
From the New York Times
Remote possibilities - the death of the TV handset?
From NewTeeVee

SXSW Staffer Joe Nicolosi on Winning Comic-Con Video Award

jim — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 21:08:32 +0000

Congratulations to our talented video editor, Joe Nicolosi - he won the Grand Prize in theStar Wars fan video contest at Comic-Con 2009, selected by George Lucas himself. Check out Star Wars: Retold (By Someone Who Hasn't Seen It) further down the page, and watch out for it on Spike TV!

We sat down with Joe to find out more about his recent victory.

Hi Joe. So, tell us about your film

I was looking for a new project when my friend mentioned she hadn't seen any of the Star Wars films. I insisted she watch them but she was reluctant on the grounds that pop-culture had spoiled ever major plot point. I asked her to be specific and she started telling me her version of the Star Wars franchise, assembled mostly from Family Guy jokes and Kevin Smith dialogue. I'm glad I had the foresight to stop her and grab my video camera to record her story.

What was your Comic Con experience like? Any highlights?

I'm a bit of a comic nerd. Highlights for me included going to panels and watching some of my favorite comics creators talk about their writing/drawing techniques; Brian Lee O'Malley (Scott Pilgrim), Mike Mignola (Hellboy), and Eric Powell (The Goon) are my favorites right now. I'm interested in how techniques used for good storytelling in comics can be transferred over to filmmaking. There's a lot of shared ground between the two.

How did your SXSW experience help out at Comic Con?

Being a regular at SXSW prepared me to learn, party and do business all day and night for a week without much rest. It's a valuable skill to have, the ability to be a sponge and not be overwhelmed by the amazing things going on around you constantly.

What's next?

In the works right now I have a short documentary about the use of social media in a zombie outbreak, a follow up to Star Wars: Retold about a classic horror franchise, and a music video for an Austin band, La Snacks. On the work end of things I'm be producing videos for the SXSW website and YouTube channel all season.

Image from Star Wars: Retold (By Someone Who Hasn't Seen It)

Austin Hotels - Something For Everyone

adrienne — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 17:31:13 +0000

SXSW registrants who act now will get in on the best available rates to hang their hat and rest their head at one of Austin’s great downtown hotels. With 15 hotels within walking distance of the Austin Convention Center and Sixth Street clubs you can choose from a range of hotel styles to find the one that suits you best. Visit our online list of available hotels — and decide which is for you: luxury, business-friendly, all-suites, historic, and more.

For the budget-savvy traveler, 35 hotels are available just outside the downtown core. Take advantage of lower room rates and forget about cab fares — buy an unlimited ride pass for the R&R/SXSW Hotel Shuttle for just $40 for 5 days (or $60 for all 9 days of SXSW). During SXSW Music the shuttle will service all outlying hotels and during Interactive/Film it will service a smaller group. To see a list of hotel shuttle services click here.

Remember, only confirmed SXSW attendees (registrants, exhibitors, panelists, festival artists, etc.) can get the negotiated SXSW hotel rate and by registering as soon as possible you have the best chance of getting your preferred hotel. When you register the online system will take you to the Hotel Requester to make your reservation. You can find more information at sxsw.com/hotels or email a live human being at housing@sxsw.com.

The News Reel - Tuesday, September 1, 2009

jim — Tue, 01 Sep 2009 16:34:29 +0000

When Indies collide - (500) Days of Summer and the fusion of independent music and film
From Film School Rejects
Oscars 101 - breaking down the new Academy Best Picture rules
From Awards Daily
The A word - Anne Thompson on Art vs Artsy
From Thompson on Hollywood
Interview with SXSW alum Larry Fessenden
From A.V. Club
A very good year - 1984 in movies
From Kottke.org
New Sundance director John Cooper on changes at the festival
From The Hollywood Reporter
Summer 2009 box office gross declared the highest ever
From Variety

Photo of Joseph Gordon-Levitt and Zooey Deschanel by Sarah Lim

PanelPicker Hot Button: Another Way to Filter the Top Proposals

hugh — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 17:27:07 +0000

With more than 2600 total entries, how do you find the proposals that most interest you on the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker? One good strategy is to use the "search options" button, which allows you to browse ideas by name, title, business name, category or comments. Another approach is to use the new "Hot" button located at the top left corner of the PanelPicker interface.

Clicking on this button will give you a list of 60 proposals that are currently scoring well with other users in Interactive, Music and Film . Click on this button again and you will get 60 more ideas that are getting lots of buzz. Whatever your favorite method for filtering, please don't delay too much longer. PanelPicker voting ends on Friday, September 4.

The News Reel - Monday, August 31, 2009

jim — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 16:43:46 +0000

Congratulations to SXSW 2009's Burma VJ, on winning Denmark's coveted Roos Award
From DFI
Article on Josh Harris, subject of SXSW 2009's We Live In Public
From New York Times
Disney snaps up Marvel in a $4 Billion deal
From Variety
SXSW alum Mike Judge on his new film Extract
From New York Times
The Hurt Locker - changing the face of modern warfare?
From The Guardian
"Really something wonderful" - Cinematical on SXSW 09's Beeswax
From Cinematical
"The key to a digital future resides in the relationship with audiences"
From ScreenDaily via Power to the Pixel
In praise of the letterbox - the great widescreen vs pan-and-scan showdown
From YouTube

Image courtesy of Oscilloscope Laboratories

One More Week for 2010 PanelPicker Voting

hugh — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 20:04:24 +0000

What do you think are the best ideas submitted to the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker? We want your opinions -- and we want them soon! Remember, the voting process ends at 11:59 CST on Friday, September 4. That's one week from today. In addition to your votes, we also welcome you to comment on what you like (and what you don't like) about specific panel ideas. As always, we remind you to use the "search options" button (located just beneath the PanelPicker banner) to more easily find the exact topics that interest you most.

The News Reel - Friday, August 28, 2009

jim — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 17:15:23 +0000

SXSW alum Sam Rockwell interviewed
From Movieline
Cook County director and SXSW alum David Pomes on life after law
From Law.com
SXSW 2009 World Premiere St. Nick screens tonight at NYC's Rooftop Films
From Going New York
Extract director Mike Judge interviewed
From The Austin Chronicle
SXSW Film Festival Producer Janet Pierson on her Toronto picks
From TIFF.net
An unusual remake project
From The Guardian
Seinfeld - the reunion
From LA Times

Photo of Sam Rockwell by Matthew Wedgwood

PanelPicker: Film Panels in the Interactive Interface

jim — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 23:05:35 +0000

When you're browsing the SXSW 2010 PanelPicker for your favorite ideas, don't forget there are also plenty of film related panels in the Interactive PanelPicker.
Want to know more about online video? Need to get the lowdown on digital filmmaking? Head over to Interactive to see what's on offer. You can easily filter panels too, simply click on "search options".

While you're checking out the panels, take a look at the new Hotlist buttons at the top left of the screen. Clicking on these will give you a little insight into which panels are popular right now.

Don't forget, voting closes September 4, and remember - if you want to check out panels at SXSW 2010, you'll need a badge. Register here now!

SXSW Films on Release - August 27

jim — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 18:48:28 +0000

Welcome to our new, regular feature, keeping you abreast of all the great films from previous SXSW lineups. Whether in theaters, on DVD, online, on TV or anywhere else, catch up on films you missed, or just stay tuned to see your favourites again.
Wherever it is, we'll let you know right here.

Theatrical

The Way We Get By - Boston, MFA, 08/27
We Live in Public - NYC, IFC Film Center, 08/28

DVD/Blu-ray

Adventureland - Out Now
Goodbye Solo - Out Now
Nights and Weekends (SXSW 2008) - Out Now

VOD

Motherland - via Gigantic Digital

Image courtesy of Lionsgate

The News Reel - Thursday, August 27, 2009

jim — Thu, 27 Aug 2009 17:05:22 +0000

SXSW alum Sam Raimi moves to primetime
From The Hollywood Reporter
What do real bomb disposal experts think of The Hurt Locker?
From The Guardian
SXSW Alum and TFPF recipient David Modigliani interviewed
From News 8 Austin via Austin Film Society
Panavision guru and co-founder Richard Moore dies
From The Hollywood Reporter
A man's world? Directorial demographics
From The New York Times
British TV cash cow Big Brother cancelled after a decade
From The Independent
DVD rental firm Redbox signs a deal with Paramount
From Digital Media Wire

Photo of Sam Raimi by Matthew Wedgwood

The News Reel - Wednesday, August 26, 2009

jim — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 17:27:27 +0000

Kathryn Bigelow discusses her follow up The Hurt Locker
From Digital Spy
David Bordwell on Transmedia Storytelling
From davidbordwell.net via Truly Free Film
Twitter at the movies
From Hollywood Wiretap
An interview with Mike Judge, director of Extract
From NPR
Preview Screenings - A Public Service Announcement
From BBC
Four major studios sign on to make catalog and new release films available as DivX downloads
From NewTeeVee
SXSW alum and Inglourious Basterds star Eli Roth interviewed
From Cinematical
A vigil for The Pirate Bay
From CNN

Photo by Courtney Dudley

2010 PanelPicker: More Entries Accepted on August 26

jim — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:47:18 +0000

Got a great film panel idea for the 2010 SXSW PanelPicker? Missed the July 12 deadline? Well breathe easy - you can still submit your idea, starting today, Wednesday, August 26.

It's easy - just email us and we'll send you the special log-in information to submit your proposal. Don't forget, voting still ends Friday, September 4, so head to the PanelPicker Interface now to browse the many entries we've already received.
If you haven't already done so, sign up for a free account, and you're all set!

SXSW 2009 Award Winner "Motherland" Released Nationwide

jim — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 22:28:37 +0000

Jennifer Steinman's Motherland won the Emerging Visions Audience Award after its world premiere at SXSW 2009. Since then, the acclaimed documentary has picked up even more awards, and is finally available nationwide via Gigantic Digital Cinema, from Wednesday, August 26.

For more information check out the film's official website, where you can pre-order the DVD, and click here for our previous interview with Jennifer Steinman.

The News Reel - Tuesday, August 25, 2009

jim — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 17:13:50 +0000

Interview with The Hurt Locker writer Mark Boal
From The Telegraph
"Micropatronage" - the future of arts funding?
From The New York Times
Thoughts on the future of film criticism
From The Auteurs
Criterion and "the state of DVD"
From The Playlist
Social Media, I love ya! - Twitter and the 80-20 rule
From speedcine.com
Is 2009 "the year grown-ups and Hollywood finally agreed to call it quits"?
From The Washington Post
Even legendary film locations can't escape the credit crunch
From The Guardian

Photo of Mark Boal by Courtney Dudley

PanelPicker: How-To (A Video Guide)

andrew — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 16:49:31 +0000

Last week we took you inside the SXSW PanelPicker with the video "PanelPicker: An Inside View." This week we continue the process with "PanelPicker: How-To," a step-by-step video guide to the PanelPicker voting process. Do I need to sign-up to vote? How do I create an account? How can I find what I'm looking for in the PanelPicker? How do I vote for my favorite ideas? You'll find the answers here. Special thanks to our good friends at Trigger Studios!

And, be sure to check out the new HotList feature, which allows you to browse ideas that are trending well for SXSW Interactive, as well as for SXSW Music and SXSW Film.

SXSW PanelPicker - Have You Voted Yet?

jim — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 22:40:37 +0000

It's all systems go for the SXSW 2010 PanelPicker, but it needs your input to keep moving.
If you're still wondering what the PanelPicker is all about, check out our handy video guide to find out all you need to know. When you're done with that, head over to the interface to browse the full list of Panel submissions. You'll find everything from acting workshops, to advice on digital distribution and more. When you find an idea that interests you, simply cast your vote. The process only works if the community participates - and that means you! The process ends September 4, so get involved and get voting!

The News Reel - Monday, August 24, 2009

jim — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 17:19:31 +0000

An interview with Chai Vasarhelyi, director of SXSW 09's Youssou Ndour: I Bring What I Love
From Pegasus News
"We have been invaded by screens"
From The Guardian
Britain gears up for the 3D revolution
From The Independent
SXSW alum Mike Judge discusses Beavis and Butt-head with Collider
From collider.com
BBFC's 'banning' of Grotesque opens up a new debate on film censorship
From Little White Lies
Everyone's talking about it - check out the trailer for Christopher Nolan's Inception
From Cinematical
Scorsese's Shutter Island gets pushed back to February 2010
From Deadline Hollywood Daily

Image courtesy of Groovy Griot

Spike Lee's "Passing Strange" Opens in NYC!

jim — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 21:37:35 +0000

If you missed Passing Strange at SXSW 2009, you missed out on a truly unique event at Austin's glorious Paramount Theatre. The Paramount screen did full justice to Spike Lee's spectacular vision of Stew's hit Broadway show, and Spike himself took to the stage of the legendary entertainment palace to present his film to an appreciative crowd.

Since then, the film has garnered serious acclaim, including A.O. Scott's glowing review in the New York Times. If you live in NYC, you're in luck - Passing Strange The Movie opens Friday, August 21, with an exclusive engagement at IFC Center. The following week, you can check it out as VOD, part of the new "Sundance Selects" series. Click here now to read an interview with Stew and Spike.

Make sure you don't miss the next special event at SXSW by registering for a badge. Save a few bucks and do it now - prices go up September 25!

Photos by Jesse Knish

The News Reel - Friday, August 21, 2009

jim — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 17:07:51 +0000

SXSW 09 World Premiere Motherland picked up by Vanguard Cinema
Via pitchengine
Thoughts on Extract, with excerpts from last night's Q&A in Dallas
From Cinematical
SXSW alumni present shorts at Zero Film Festival in Brooklyn, NYC
From SpoutBlog
142 Iranian Filmmakers boycott Iran's only documentary festival
From Still in Motion
Aging against the machine - Herzog and Lynch continue to ruffle feathers.
From The Guardian
The downside of Blu-ray
From Film School Rejects
Are we in a "Social Media Revolution"? 200,000 YouTube viewers seem to think we might be
From YouTube via Truly Free Film
Acting out - directors in front of the camera
From dailyfill.com

Image courtesy of Smush Media

SXSW Stories: Judi Krant

jim — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 20:53:11 +0000

Judi Krant's Made in China won the Narrative Grand Jury Award at SXSW 2009, as well as the SXSW / Chicken & Egg Emergent Woman Award. A world premiere at SXSW, Made in China has continued to screen around the country, picking up even more awards and acclaim.
But what does the director have to say about the experience? Find out below!

"In the weeks preceding the fest, I was super stressed; I practically ground my teeth down to nubs at night while suffering through a series of classic anxiety dreams about our premiere. On the first official day of the festival, however, I was saved from my self-obsession by the filmmaker lunch at Troublemaker Studios. I met so many brilliant storytellers from all over the world and the camaraderie amongst the film- makers was the best unexpected treat of the week. I realized that the week was not just about my anxiety-riddled screenings; it was a great opportunity for me to do one of my favorite things in the world: see movies!

Connecting with so many fellow indie moviemakers, and having an opportunity to share our work with each other was a euphoric experience. The film program was fantastically diverse, and the stories I was told at SXSW have really stuck with me. The festival is everything it’s hyped to be: compelling films from a broad rage of unique voices, an enthusiastic and diverse audience that actually show up in great numbers (even at 10 am on Sunday), all wrapped into a kick-ass city and smothered in queso!"

Judi Krant, Director - Made in China

Photo by John Pesina

Getting the Most out of PanelPicker

melissa — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:16:04 +0000

There's been a lot of talk about the SXSW PanelPicker. You may have already seen the tweets, blog posts, status updates, emails, etc. from your friends asking for your support for their SXSW panel submission in the PanelPicker. And you wonder, "What IS this PanelPicker everyone's talking about?"

Well, wonder no more! SXSW has teamed up with our good friends at Trigger Studios to bring you "PanelPicker: An Inside View." This video is a handy-dandy guide to this simple-to-use online tool.

Stay tuned right here for the next installment, "PanelPicker: How-To," for step-by-step instructions on how use the PanelPicker to be a greater part of SXSW 2010.

Also, check out our Thumbs Up page to get PanelPicker buttons for your blog or website and spread the word about your panel proposal.

The News Reel - Thursday, August 20, 2009

jim — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 17:05:23 +0000

Austin Chronicle talks to SXSW alum Quentin Tarantino
From Austin Chronicle
Interview with Spike Lee and Stew of SXSW 09's Passing Strange
From IFC.com
Teaser for James Cameron's Avatar arrives
HD Trailer via Apple.
The recession and the return of Film Noir
From The Telegraph
The Twitter effect - movie buzz in 140 characters or less
Article from Mashable
The Cinema Eye awards add Rosen and Robinson to team, moves to January
From IndieWIRE
The death of Torture Porn? BBFC 'bans' new J-horror Grotesque
From Twitch
"What about a website?" - Advice for documentary filmmakers.
From POV Blog

Extract World Premiere Delivers the Goods

jim — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 23:12:11 +0000

A new Mike Judge film is something to celebrate, and audiences celebrated in style Tuesday night at the world premiere of Extract, his hilarious new comedy. Mike joined star Jason Bateman on the red carpet as an eager crowd gathered at Austin's Paramount Theatre.

Extract marks a return to the workplace comedy territory explored in Mike's 1999 film Office Space. SXSW also co-hosted the 10th anniversary of that cult film's release back in February.
If you couldn't make it to Tuesday's premiere, see what you missed in SXSW staffer Matt Sonzala's photos, and don't forget to check out Extract when it opens nationwide on September 4!

Photos by Matt Sonzala

The News Reel - Wednesday, August 19, 2009

jim — Wed, 19 Aug 2009 16:42:01 +0000

Take a look at these awesome pics from last night's Austin world premiere of Extract, with director Mike Judge and star Jason Bateman in attendance. Watch out for the film in theaters from September 4. More info at the official site.

Wise words on the fine art of submitting your film to festivals, featuring advice from our own Festival Producer, Janet Pierson.

Angelenos should check out SXSW 2009's The Immaculate Conception of Little Dizzle, screening tonight at LA's AT&T center. Check out the official site here.

Watch out for Bradley Beesley's SXSW 2009 world premiere Sweethearts of the Prison Rodeo on Cinemax from September 17. More info here.

Photo by Matt Sonzala

The News Reel - Tuesday, August 18, 2009

jim — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 16:55:47 +0000

Houston Chronicle talks to Cook County director David Pomes ahead of the film's Houston premiere this Thursday, August 20. The film was a SXSW 2008 world premiere.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2009 Texas Filmmakers' Production Fund (TFPF)! Austin Film Society handed out $112,000 of awards and travel grants to lucky recipients, including a number of SXSW alumni. Check out the full list here.

Spike Lee's Passing Strange, a spotlight premiere at SXSW 2009, has been announced as the first film in the "Sundance Selects” VOD program. More info at IndieWIRE.

Grace, Paul Solet's SXSW 2009 Midnighter, gets the Fangoria treatment in a freshly posted and positive review. Check it out here.

Image courtesy of Greenwood Films

PanelPicker Voting Has Begun!

andrew — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 20:20:20 +0000

The day you've all been waiting for is here. Today you get to give us your input on what content you'd like to see at SXSW in 2010 via the SXSW PanelPicker.

For the first time, we opened up the PanelPicker to Music, Film and Interactive. And the community came through with over 2600 panel submissions. Since we can't accept them all, it's up to the community to let us know which sessions they think will be a good fit for the 2010 event. The community's votes will account for 30% of the panel selection process.

To get started, create a FREE PanelPicker account and start browsing. You can give a "thumbs up," "thumbs down," and leave comments on each panel. If you have any questions about how voting works, take a gander at the PanelPicker FAQ.

Community voting in the SXSW PanelPicker closes on September 4.

The News Reel - Monday, August 17, 2009

jim — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 16:46:33 +0000

SXSW 2008 world premiere In A Dream features in the New York Times ahead of its HBO debut this Wednesday, August 19. Watch out for the DVD from next month, and check out our interview with director Jeremiah Zagar here.

Plenty of viewing options for tomorrow's release of The Wedding Bros., a SXSW 2008 world premiere (as The Marconi Bros.)
Get it via Netflix, Amazon or VOD. You can also pre-order from the official site.

The Guardian profiles Kathryn Bigelow ahead of the UK release of SXSW 2009 spotlight premiere The Hurt Locker.

LA Times celebrates celluloid with Andrew Bujalski, writer/director of SXSW 2009 North American premiere Beeswax. New Yorkers can still see Beeswax at Film Forum, so check it out!

Image courtesy of Herzliya Films

The News Reel - Friday, August 14, 2009

jim — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 16:32:25 +0000

Austinites should check out Second Skin this weekend - the SXSW 2008 world premiere opens Sunday, August 16 at the Alamo Drafthouse. More info and a trailer at the official website.

Check out this stills gallery from Spike Lee's Passing Strange, a SXSW 2009 Spotlight Premiere. You can also watch the trailer in HD here.

columbusalive.com talks to Bill and Turner Ross about their award winning SXSW 09 world premiere 45365.

The Guardian celebrates the 'old-school effects' of SXSW 09 Spotlight Premiere, Moon.

"Youssou N'Dour: I Bring What I Love" Hits Theaters

jim — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 21:05:32 +0000

Since its US premiere at SXSW 2009, Youssou N'Dour: I Bring What I Love has won considerable acclaim ahead of its current theatrical run.

From tomorrow, Friday, August 14, Austinites can see Elizabeth Chai Vasarhelyi's documentary on the big screen as it opens at the Regal Arbor Theater. It wil continue to roll out nationwide to Dallas, Chicago, Milwaukee, and a whole bunch of other cities, all the way up to Alaska and Canada.
Get the full schedule at the official site, and check out the trailer below. See you there!

Image courtesy of Groovy Griot

The News Reel - Thursday, August 13, 2009

jim — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:35:14 +0000

The always entertaining Guardian Film Weekly podcast features an interview with Cary Fukunaga, director of SXSW 2009 Spotlight Premiere Sin Nombre.

Moviemaker talks to Paul Solet, director of SXSW 2009 Midnighter Grace.

SXSW 2008 World Premiere and Lone Star States award winner Cook County is featured in the Houston Chronicle.

Gordon and the Whale has the teaser trailer for Richard Linklater's Me and Orson Welles, a super special screening at SXSW 2009. Check out the official site here.

Image courtesy of Focus Features

Win Tickets to Extract Premiere - One Day Left!

jim — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 22:00:15 +0000

Don't forget, we're offering 10 lucky Austin registrants the chance to win a pair of tickets to next week's red carpet world premiere of Extract, the latest film from Mike Judge.
Register now for a Film, Gold or Platinum badge to be in with a chance - the contest closes 6pm CST tomorrow, Thursday, August 13. More info here, and check out our registration page to pick up a badge and a chance to win. Good luck!

Image courtesy of Miramax

PanelPicker Voting Launches Monday, August 17

hugh — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 18:55:17 +0000

Thanks again to the thousands of members of the SXSW online community who have submitted panel and solo presentation proposals for next spring's event. To this end, the 2010 PanelPicker voting application is now set to launch on Monday, August 17 (this is a week later than initially scheduled -- all good things come to those who wait). We've added a few new twists to the voting process for 2010, which we think will continue to improve the usability and functionality (and fun!) of this process.

Also, remember that the PanelPicker is now being used to help program panels for all three SXSW events -- Interactive, Music and Film. Stay tuned to this website for more information on the big launch next week!

The News Reel - Wednesday, August 12, 2009

jim — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 16:48:33 +0000

Congratulation to this year's SXGlobal doc Rene, winner of Best Feature Documentary prize at Kosovo's DokuFest.

Check out SXSW 2007 world premiere Audience of One, just released on DVD by Indiepix.

Also out soon on DVD, watch out for SXSW 2008 world premiere The Toe Tactic, available next month via Kino.

If you're in LA watch out for SXSW 2009 world premiere The Way We Get By, opening Friday, August 14 at Laemmle Music Hall 3.

In case you missed it, check out Kathryn Bigelow's appearance on the Colbert Report. Bigelow's The Hurt Locker was a Spotlight Premiere at SXSW 2009.

Image courtesy of Aerofilms

The News Reel - Tuesday, August 11, 2009

jim — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 16:54:46 +0000

Purchase Ron Mann's SXSW 2009 US premiere Know Your Mushrooms next month, in a decidedly unusual box set. Why unusual? There's no disc: more info here and here.

More interviews with SXSW Alum Andrew Bujalski, in Heeb magazine, and on video via IndieWIRE. Bujalski's Beeswax was a N. American premiere at SXSW 09 and is currently playing at Film Forum.

Our SXSW 2009 opening night World Premiere, I Love You, Man is released today on DVD and Blu-ray. Preview a bonus clip here, and see what director John Hamburg has to say at MTV Movies Blog.

David Hudson rounds up some of the copious coverage of The Hurt Locker at The Auteurs Daily. The film was a Spotlight Premiere at SXSW 2009 and is currently on release.

Photo courtesy of Sphinx Productions

The News Reel - Monday, August 10, 2009

jim — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 16:41:11 +0000

Austinites, check out SXSW 2008 award winner and world premiere Throw Down Your Heart, screening tonight at the Alamo Ritz as part of their Music Monday series.

cleveland.com talks to Ohio natives Bill and Turner Ross about their SXSW 2009 world premiere and Grand Jury Award winner, 45365.

The Hurt Locker's writer/director team Mark Boal and Kathryn Bigelow are to reunite for Paramount's Triple Frontier. More info at Variety.

LA Times talks to Aron Gaudet and Gita Pullapilly, director and producer of The Way We Get By, and watch out for the film on POV later this year.

Image courtesy of Argot PIctures

The News Reel - Friday, August 7, 2009

jim — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 16:46:08 +0000

Congratulations to our good friend and SXSW alum Bob Berney as he announces Apparition, his new distribution outfit with producer Bill Pohlad. For more info on the venture and initial slate click here.

Watch SXSW 2008 world premiere Second Skin for free right now on SnagFilms. Do it quickly - it's for one week only!
Meanwhile, the film has embarked on a theatrical run - more info here.

Andrew O'Hehir wants to know, "does "Beeswax" mark the death of mumblecore?" Head to Salon to find out. Beeswax was a North American premiere at SXSW 2009 and opens today at Film Forum, NYC.

Check out an amazing, mobile film festival conceived by Tilda Swinton and critic Mark Cousins: A Pilgrimage is currently dragging a portable 33 tonne cinema through the Scottish Highlands, Fitzcarraldo-style!
Wish we could be there!

Head to the Marin Independent Journal for an interview with Michael Jacobs, director of SXSW 2007 world premiere Audience of One

Picture courtesy of Apparition

SXSW Stories: Ben Steinbauer

jim — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 15:11:35 +0000

Following its acclaimed world premiere at SXSW 2009, Ben Steinbauer's Winnebago Man has traveled around the world, picking up awards and fans all over the place. In the second installment of our SXSW Stories feedback series, read what Ben has to say about his SXSW experience, and the premiere that started it all.

"We had finished editing our documentary just three days before the festival and were elated not only to be finished, but that our main character, an 80-year-old hermit, had agreed to come to Austin for the world premiere! But as our first screening approached, we started getting nervous. It was our first time we’d be showing the film to an audience beyond our friends, and we had no idea who would show up or what they’d think of the movie. What happened exceeded our wildest expectations—-there was a line of people around the block, and our screenings were packed with distributors, festival programmers and press, along with enthusiastic audiences. For our indie doc, SXSW was the best premiere we could have hoped for."

Ben Steinbauer, Producer/Director - Winnebago Man

Photo of Ben Steinbauer and Jack Rebney by Cassie Wright.

Win Tickets to "Extract" World Premiere!

jim — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 17:09:41 +0000

As announced last week, Mike Judge's new film Extract will receive its red carpet world premiere right here in Austin, next Tuesday, August 18. Tickets are like hen's teeth, but don't worry - we've got your back. Simply register for a Film, Gold or Platinum badge by Thursday, August 13 at 6pm CST for the chance to win one of 10 pairs of tickets to this special event!

Details on registration can be found here, but you only have a week, so get clicking! Winners will be announced on Friday morning, here on the blog.

Check out the trailer below, and good luck!

Photo courtesy of Miramax

The News Reel - Thursday, August 6, 2009

jim — Thu, 06 Aug 2009 16:23:24 +0000

Watch SXSW 2009 world premiere The Least of These on SnagFilms to find out more about the background to the recent government announcement on immigrant detention policy.

SXSW 2008 world premiere Second Skin begins a theatrical run this Friday in NYC. More info here, and watch out for it in Austin from August 16!

The A.V. Club has just posted an extensive interview with Beeswax director and SXSW alum Andrew Bujalski, as has Filmmaker. The film opens tomorrow in New York's Film Forum.

Check out the indieWIRE Daily, featuring SXSW 2009 world premiere Severe Clear.

SXSW alum Larry Fessenden has signed up to direct a remake of cult horror film The Orphanage.

Still courtesy of Glass House Productions / La Sonrisa Productions

The News Reel - Wednesday, August 5, 2009

jim — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 15:53:07 +0000

The Yes Men continue to ruffle feathers, raising the ire of Exxon and Dow as they gear up for Friday's UK release of The Yes Men Fix The World. The SXSW 09 special screening opens here in October.

Jeremy Simmons' SXSW doc The Last Beekeeper will receive a world TV premiere on Planet Green on September 12. More info at Screen.

David Hudson looks at Beeswax, Andrew Bujalski's SXSW 2009 North American premiere, at The Auteurs Daily. The film opens this Friday at NYC's Film Forum.

Check out Speedcine, a great way to find films for (legal) online viewing, including SXSW world premieres like 45465 (2009), Yeast (2008) and Confessions of a Superhero (2007).

The trailer for Ong Bak 2 is featured on Film School Rejects as anticipation builds for the VOD and theatrical debuts (September 25, October 23 respectively). The film screened this year as part of SXSW Presents: Fantastic Fest @ Midnight.

Photo courtesy of The Yes Men

The News Reel - Tuesday, August 4, 2009

jim — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 16:10:13 +0000

SXSW alum Andrew Bujalski discusses Beeswax with IndieWIRE. The film was a North American premiere at SXSW 2009 and opens this Friday at NYC's Film Forum.

Congratulations to Best Worst Movie, winner of the Best Documentary Award at Montreal's Fantasia Festival. The film was a world premiere at SXSW 2009.

SXSW 2008 world premiere Beautiful Losers is poised for a UK DVD release following a theatrical run at London's ICA. More info at the film's official UK site.

Barry Jenkins, director of SXSW 2008 world premiere Medicine For Melancholy, is the subject of the latest "A Filmmaker's Glamorous Life" at Filmmaker Magazine.

Photo of Andrew Bujalski courtesy of Tamika Grant

The News Reel - Monday, August 3, 2009

jim — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 16:52:11 +0000

Playwright Stew discusses his work following the Tony-winning Passing Strange. Spike Lee's documentary account of the play was a Spotlight Premiere at SXSW 2009.

Congratulations to the SXSW 2009 world premiere Winnebago Man, which picked up the Founders Award at Michael Moore's Traverse City Film Festival.

Filmmaker Magazine's continues its interview series "A Filmmaker's Glamorous Life". This time it's the turn of SXSW alumni Jake Mahaffy (Wellness, 2008) and Doug Buck (Sisters, 2007).

Don't forget, for one week only, check out SXSW 2009 world premiere and award winner 45365, streaming for free on SnagFilms.

SXSW Film 2010 is Open for Business!

Janet — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:58:02 +0000

It's been a scorcher this summer here in Austin, Texas. While we've been baking, we've also been basking in the glow of what turned out to be a banner edition of SXSW Film Conference and Festival in 2009. In addition to the great movies and panels and parties SXSW is known for, we were able to add in some great new upgrades, including:

- Free shuttles between the downtown cinemas and the Alamo South Lamar

- Filmmaker Welcome Lunch hosted at TroubleMaker Studios

- New Festival sidebars: SXGlobal, and SXSW Presents Fantastic Fest at Midnight

- Limited number of advanced tickets for badgeholders

- Filmmaker clubhouse

- Screening Library for press and industry

Not that we can rest on our laurels. We're already working on upgrades and new ideas for 2010!

The 17th edition of SXSW Film Conference and Festival begins Friday, March 12. The Conference runs through Tuesday, March 16, alongside SXSW Interactive, while the Festival continues alongside Music until March 20th.

You can buy your badge at the lowest rate and book your hotel room at a discount price. You don't want to dally. Badge rates increase as the event grows nearer, and convenient hotel rooms sell out. Book now!

Call for Entries: SXSW is also now accepting entries for the highly competitive 2010 Film Festival. For further information and to apply, click here.

The SXSW Film Conference will feature four days of panels, conversations, workshops, one-on-one mentor sessions, mini-meetings, and parties! For the first time, Film is employing the wildly successful SXSW PanelPicker to give you a way to vote for the topics that most interest you. Check it out here.

SXSW Film is not just about watching movies and attending panels, (though that'd be plenty)! It's an efficient and productive way to do business and raise your industry profile, no matter what your budget. Learn more about the SXSW Film Trade Show, SXSWorld quarterly magazine, SXSW Registrants Directory provided to every attendee, and lots of other ways to promote yourself at SXSW. Fine more info here.

Missed SXSW 2009? Check out the videos and podcasts on SXSW.com or on our new YouTube channel.

But nothing compares to the live experience of SXSW in Austin, TX every March. You know you want to be here. And we'd love to have you. So c'mon down!

- Janet Pierson, SXSW Film Conference and Festival Producer

First-Timers Guide to SXSW: Registration

melissa — Fri, 31 Jul 2009 04:37:26 +0000

Everyone's first SXSW can be a little overwhelming. With hundreds of panel sessions, two trade shows, more than 300 film screenings and nearly 2,000 performing musical acts, anyone could feel a little out of their element. So for you, our new friend (and some of you veterans who might have forgotten a thing or two), we've started the "First-timers Guide" for SXSW. On the guide, we'll explain things like the difference between a badge and registration (hint: they're the same thing), what you should plan on for your first day, how to navigate Austin and what other things you can expect to experience when you get here.

First step to SXSW for everyone - not just beginners - you need to register and book your hotel. You'll get the best rate on your badge if you buy now, not to mention the best selection of hotels SXSW has to offer.

What kind of badge should you get? It depends on what you want to see. SXSW consists of three conferences and festivals spread over ten days. You can attend any of the three conferences separately, Music, Film, and Interactive. You can also combine conferences (Film + Interactive = Gold and Music + Film + Interactive = Platinum). Click the links to find out more about each conference and festival.

Still not sure if you're ready to attend SXSW 2010? No problem. Click here for more information and tips about attending SXSW for your first time. We'll update the guide as we get closer to March with what you need to know to make your first SXSW successful, so check back soon.

Alamo Ritz and crowd photo courtesy of Jeff Picard

SXSW 101: What is SXSW?

jarod — Thu, 30 Jul 2009 23:22:47 +0000

We know SXSW is a large and sometimes daunting event - with so much activity going on, it can be hard to really experience everything the event has to offer. That is why we are happy to introduce our new weekly blog post, SXSW 101! Featuring pertinent SXSW information for both newcomers and veterans, SXSW 101 will regularly answer frequently asked questions and highlight helpful aspects of the SXSW website to help you make the most of the event. For our first installment, we'll be answering one of our most frequently asked questions, "What is SXSW?"

Think of South by Southwest (SXSW) as a nine-day marketplace of ideas, relationships, and products for the Music, Interactive Media, and Film industries. Each discipline has a featured conference (panels, keynotes, and interviews) and a trade show. In addition there's the Music festival (1,800+ artists at more than 80 venues), the Film festival (250+ films in 6 venues), and an Interactive festival (200+ sessions wirth ScreenBurn Arcade and Accelerator product demos).

The News Reel - Wednesday, July 29, 2009

jim — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 16:54:57 +0000

Aussie film blog Last Night With Riviera talks to one of their 'local heroes', Steve Kastrissios. His film The Horseman received its North American Premiere at SXSW 2009.

Cinetic Rights Management has announced a new batch of films to watch instantly on Netflix. SXSW films in the lineup include Melvin Goes To Dinner (2003), Kwik Stop (2002), The Lost Coast and more. Check out Matt Dentler's blog for more info.

Row 3's Cinecast looks at SXSW 2009 US Premiere RiP: A Remix Manifesto, featuring an interview with director Brett Gaylor.

SXSW 2009 metal docs Anvil! The Story of Anvil and Iron Maiden: Flight 666 represent Canada as they continue to rock across the planet. More at spinner.com.

The News Reel - Tuesday, July 28, 2009

jim — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 16:38:22 +0000

Congratulations to Bill and Turner Ross - their SXSW 2009 world premiere 45365 has just been picked up for online distribution by SnagFilms.

The Huffington Post features SXSW 2009's The Yes Men Fix The World. If you missed the TV premiere on HBO last night, be sure to keep checking for future screenings.

Point your disbelieving eyes at the surreal new Octopus Project video, directed by SXSW alumni the Zellner brothers.

Stuntman turned director Nash Edgerton endures a tricky commute in this Aussie TV commercial. Edgerton's The Square received its world premiere at SXSW 2009.

Variety reports that longtime SXSW alum Richard Linklater is gearing up to direct Liars (A-E) for Miramax. More info at Cinematical.

Re-Designed SXSW Website Launches Monday, August 3

hugh — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 17:56:01 +0000

The 2010 season for SXSW officially begins on Monday, August 3 with the launch of our re-designed website. We are very excited about our new look for 2010 -- and we think that you will also enjoy / benefit from the many changes and additions to the site.

Monday, August 3 also marks the first day you can officially register for the 2010 event (which is scheduled Friday, March 12 through Sunday, March 21).

Finally, if you want to make sure you have access to all the available hotel properties during SXSW, then be sure to register and reserve your room when the new site opens on Monday, August 3.

The News Reel - Monday, July 27, 2009

jim — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 16:32:23 +0000

Congratulations to David Lee Miller's My Suicide, a multi-award winner at Italy's Giffoni Film Festival. The film was a US premiere at SXSW 2009.

Filmmaker Magazine follows up last week's feature on how independent filmmakers pay the rent with the unedited transcript of SXSW alum Joe Swanberg's interview.

efilmcritic talks to Jeffrey Levy-Hinte about his documentary, Soul Power, currently doing the rounds to considerable acclaim. The film was a US premiere at SXSW 2009.

Karina Longworth points to some new promo videos for Andrew Bujalski's Beeswax, over at SpoutBlog. The film received its North American premiere at SXSW 2009.

Apple gets technical with Marc Webb and Alan Bell, director and editor of SXSW 2009 spotlight premiere (500) Days of Summer.

Austin to Host World Premiere of Mike Judge's "Extract"

jim — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 14:59:57 +0000

The Austin Film Society, Original Alamo Drafthouse Cinemas, Ain’t It Cool News and SXSW are pleased to present the World Premiere of Miramax Films’ EXTRACT, on August 18 at Austin's Paramount Theater. The event will be attended by Mike Judge and star Jason Bateman, and is a benefit for the Austin Film Society's Texas Filmmakers' Production Fund.

EXTRACT is the latest comedy from writer/director and Austinite Mike Judge (OFFICE SPACE, KING OF THE HILL, IDIOCRACY). Joel, played by Jason Bateman (JUNO, ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT), is one step away from selling his flavor extract factory and retiring to easy street when a freak workplace accident sets in motion a series of disasters that puts his business and personal life in jeopardy. The film also stars Kristen Wiig (SNL, GHOST TOWN), Mila Kunis (FORGETTING SARAH MARSHALL) and Ben Affleck (HE’S JUST NOT THAT INTO YOU). Miramax Films will open this film nationwide on September 4th, 2009.

AFS members will be able to purchase tickets during a preview window starting tomorrow, Tuesday, July 28th at Noon at www.austinfilm.org.

Tickets for the general public will go on sale at Noon on Monday, August 3 through GetTix (866-443-8849), gettix.net or The Paramount Theatre box office. Pricing as follows:

$100 VIP seating and official after-party with Judge and Bateman
$30 (Mezzanine) and $17 (Upper Balcony) for the screening including a Q&A

SXSW Film 2010 badgeholders will get the opportunity to win tickets through this website, but of course that means you'll need to get your 2010 badge! So watch this space! Registration opens August 3rd.

In the meantime, sign up for one of our feeds or newsletters to stay ahead of the curve.

Special thanks to Miramax Films, Marc English Design and The Austin Chronicle.
For further information on this special event, and the Texas Filmmakers Production Fund, check out austinfilm.org.

The News Reel - Friday, July 24, 2009

jim — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 16:51:50 +0000

Michael Moore is "hot for Austin". Why? The Austin Chronicle explains Moore's admiration for two local filmmakers and SXSW alumni Bob Byington (Registered Sex Offender and Ben Steinbauer (Winnebago Man).

Ever wondered how those struggling indie filmmakers make a buck when they're not shooting? Head over to Filmmaker Magazine to find out. You may be surprised.

Congrats to SXSW 2009 world premiere Women in Trouble - US distribution rights have just been picked up by Screen Media Films.

Another day, another glowing report for SXSW 2009's The Hurt Locker. This time it's the LA Times, relating the story of theater owner Robert Bucksbaum's involvement with the film.

The News Reel - Thursday, July 23, 2009

jim — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 16:39:03 +0000

The Austin Chronicle looks to the future of cinema, enlisting the help of some local film folk and SXSW alumni to ask the question - What Would Jean-Luc Do?

Rotten Tomatoes talks to Mark Boal, writer of the acclaimed SXSW 2009 film The Hurt Locker. The film is currently on release - check out theaters and showtimes at the official site.

Budding mycologists - head to Austin's Alamo Downtown next Wednesday, July 29, and check out Ron Mann's Know Your Mushrooms, a US premiere at SXSW 2009. The event wil also feature plenty of fungal treats to accompany the film.

Congratulations to The Devil Came on Horseback from SXSW 2007 - the doc has just received 3 Emmy nominations. Good luck folks!

The News Reel - Wednesday, July 22, 2009

jim — Wed, 22 Jul 2009 16:44:42 +0000

SXSW alum Sam Raimi has signed up to direct the big screen adaptation of popular MMORPG World of Warcraft. Raimi's Drag Me To Hell received an early work-in-progress preview at SXSW 2009. For more info on MMORPGS, take a look at Second Skin, the SXSW 2008 world premiere available soon in theaters and on DVD.

Check out this Twitch interview with Paul Solet. Solet's film Grace traumatized SXSW 2009 audiences as part of our Midnighters section.

Jody Lambert's SXSW 2008 world premiere Of All The Things will make an appearance next month in LA, on August 22. The screening will feature special guests including a Q&A with the film's subject, Dennis Lambert. More info at their Facebook page, or head here to purchase tickets.

Variety takes a closer look at Alex Vlack & Damani Baker's Bill Withers doc Still Bill, a special screening at SXSW 2009.

A North American premiere as part of SXSW Presents: Fantastic Fest @ Midnight, Steven Kastrissios' The Horseman is reviewed over at Fangoria.

The News Reel - Tuesday, July 21, 2009

jim — Tue, 21 Jul 2009 16:37:45 +0000

Filmmaker magazine has posted some previews of its summer issue, including the SXSW alum-heavy list of 25 New Faces of Independent Film. You'll also find an interview with Jeffrey Levy-Hinte of SXSW 09's Soul Power, and a substantial feature on Humpday, a spotlight premiere at SXSW this year.

Taking The Hurt Locker as its lead, IndieWIRE suggests the film heralds a "Female-Driven Awards Season". Take a look at the article to see what they mean. The Hurt Locker was a spotlight premiere at SXSW 2009, and is currently on release.

IndieWIRE also reports that Oscilloscope Laboratories will continue as usual following news of founder Adam Yauch recent cancer diagnosis. The label plays host to SXSW films like The Paranoids (2009), Dear Zachary and Frontrunners (both 2008), among others.

Andrew Bujalski's Beeswax, a North American premiere at SXSW 2009, opens next month at New York's Film Forum, with Bujalski in person on opening night. In the meantime, take a look at the trailer, right here.

The News Reel - Monday, July 20, 2009

jim — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 16:42:57 +0000

Today is the 40th anniversary of the moon landings, so it's a great time to check out For All Mankind, just released on DVD and Blu-Ray. Criterion.com rounds up some useful links, and while we're on the subject, don't forget that the appropriately titled Moon is still on release.
Also, take a look at Slate to see how TV coverage of the landings might look today.

Moon was just one of the SXSW 2009 films with a strong showing at the weekend box office, which also saw results for (500) Days of Summer, The Hurt Locker and The Way We Get By. IndieWIRE has the information.

Jaded critics - there is still hope! Cinematical's Dawn Taylor explains how SXSW 2009 film (500) Days of Summer reminds her why she "fell in love with movies in the first place."

Check out this intriguing podcast discussing "The Ethics of Michael Bay and Brüno". Brüno, currently on release, enjoyed a special sneak preview event at SXSW 2009.

A world premiere as part of SXSW Presents: Fantastic Fest @ Midnight this year, Lesbian Vampire Killers gears up for a UK DVD release. Check out a preview of the artwork here.

The News Reel - Friday, July 17, 2009

jim — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 16:31:29 +0000

Today sees the release of Marc Webb's (500) Days of Summer, a spotlight premier at SXSW 2009. Check out reviews here, here and here. The New York Times also features a clip from the film with a commentary from the director.

Also today, Eileen Yaghoobian's Died Young, Stayed Pretty opens in NYC. Cinematical has plenty of info, as does SpoutBlog, and check out this Filmmaker interview with Yaghoobian.

Aron Gaudet's The Way We Get By also opens in NYC today.
More details at the film's official site, including special New York promotions, and read some reviews here, here and here, and Paste also has a special feature.

Spout recently pointed out a couple of new videos that appeared on David Lowery's blog, relating to the beginnings of his film St. Nick, which received its world premiere at SXSW 2009.

The News Reel, Thursday, July 16, 2009

jim — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 16:50:56 +0000

Click here to see a decidedly unconventional Village Voice review of Eileen Yaghoobian's poster documentary Died Young, Stayed Pretty. The film was a US premiere at SXSW 2009 and opens tomorrow at the IFC Center, NYC.

Head over to Pitchfork to watch Margaret Brown's SXSW 2005 doc, Be Here To Love Me: A Film About Townes Van Zandt. The catch? It's only up for a week, so get clicking!

This week sees the DVD release of Mark Webber's Explicit Ills, a world premiere and award winner at SXSW 2009. Check out the official site here.

IndieWIRE's cinemadaily summarizes some of the online chatter surrounding the just-released DVD of For All Mankind and other things galactic. The documentary received its HD premiere at SXSW 2009.

Check out this interview with Diplo - musician, DJ, and Exec. Producer/Co-Director of SXSW 2009 US premiere Favela on Blast.

The News Reel - Wednesday, July 15, 2009

jim — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 16:48:32 +0000

Filmmaker Magazine has just announced their annual, much-anticipated list of 25 New Faces of Independent Film. As with previous years, a sizeable chunk of the list is comprised of SXSW alumni. Check it out at IndieWIRE, with the full article and bios at the Filmmaker website. Congratulations everyone!

Yesterday saw the Criterion DVD release of Al Reinert's (literally) stellar For All Mankind, which dazzled its SXSW 2009 audience with an HD premiere back in March. Alternatively, watch online at the Criterion Cinemateque, and be sure to read Al Reinert's essay on the film.

Check out this interview with William Campbell and Jett Steiger, the director and producer team behind The Nature Between Us, an experimental short from SXSW 2009.

Congratulations to the folks behind Grace, which has just been acquired by Anchor Bay Entertainment for US and Canadian release. The film, which screened in the SXSW 2009 Midnighters section, opens next month in NYC and LA.

The News Reel - Tuesday, July 14, 2009

jim — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 16:38:55 +0000

Back in March, SXSW and Fantastic Fest brought you a tasty smorgasbord of delicious late night treats in the shape of SXSW Presents: Fantastic Fest @ Midnight. Well get ready for the full feast, as 32 titles have just been announced for Fantastic Fest 2009! Head to the official site for the skinny!

More developments in the ever-changing world of independent film distribution, as Indie Film's Mark Lipsky petitions AMPAS regarding an "antiquated and troubling rule" which "prohibits Internet transmission of a documentary feature". Should you be concerned? Decide for yourself - Nikki Finke's Deadline Hollywood Daily has more information.

Head over to Gordon and the Whale to watch an interview with Scott Neustadter & Michael Weber, the writing team behind (500) Days of Summer. Also, the New York Times explains how director Marc Webb made up for a dance-related blunder. (500) Days of Summer was a spotlight premiere at SXSW 2009.

Houston's Examiner reviews the recently released DVD of RiP!: A Remix Manifesto. Brett Gaylor's film received its US Premiere at SXSW 2009.

2010 Panelpicker: Proposal Deadline Extended Through Sunday Night

melissa — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:21:51 +0000

Many thanks to all the members of the SXSW community who have sent in 2010 programming proposals to the PanelPicker. We are excited about the quality of the ideas we've received.

And due to the huge volume of submissions in the last 24 hours, we have decided to extend the deadline to 11:59 pm CST on Sunday evening, July 12.

That's right, the PanelPicker interface will be open all weekend for all your last-minute programming proposals.

As always, we encourage you to read the FAQ before sending in your panel idea.

The News Reel - Monday, July 13, 2009

melissa — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 20:07:46 +0000

New Yorker can enjoy plenty of cool stuff surrounding Friday's release of Eileen Yaghoobian's Died Young, Stayed Pretty at the IFC Center, co-presented by Giant Robot. There's a poster show and after party, and the film will be attended by Robert Newman, Julie Lansky and Yaghoobian herself. Check it out!

Also this Friday at IFC Center, check out Aron Gaudet's The Way We Get By. Gaudet and producer Gita Pullapilly will be in attendance for opening week, with Q&A sessions and guests from the film following subsequent screenings. For more information, and to find out more about the Bring A Vet and Battle Buddy promotions, check out the film's official website.

IndieWIRE takes a look at a recent spate of documentaries focussing on "the presence of music in Africa". Throw Down Your Heart was a world premiere at SXSW 2008, while Youssou Ndour: I Bring What I Love and Soul Power received their US Premieres at this year's festival.
Soul Power was released last Friday, prompting Flavorwire to post an interview with the film's director, Jeffrey Levy-Hinte.

Limité magazine includes SXSW alumni Ry Russo-Young (You Won't Miss Me), Ramin Bahrani (Goodbye Solo) Jennifer Venditti (Billy The Kid), and Craig Zobel (Great World of Sound) in their list of 'fresh, new talent that is “on the verge”'.

2010 Panelpicker: Proposal Deadline Extended Through Sunday Night

hugh — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 20:04:48 +0000

Many thanks to all the members of the SXSW community who have sent in 2010 programming proposals to the PanelPicker. We are excited about the quality of the ideas we've received.

And due to the huge volume of submissions in the last 24 hours, we have decided to extend the deadline to 11:59 pm CST on Sunday evening, July 12.

That's right, the PanelPicker interface will be open all weekend for all your last-minute programming proposals.

As always, we encourage you to read the FAQ before sending in your panel idea.

The News Reel - Friday, July 10, 2009

jim — Fri, 10 Jul 2009 16:37:10 +0000

SXSW 2009 world premiere All Tomorrow's Parties is picking up kudos everywhere it goes: head here for an amazing gallery of pictures from their recent UK premiere, and check out what people have been saying about the film here, where you can also find out about upcoming screenings.

Humpday rolls out today, so it's a great time to check out this interview with writer/director Lynn Shelton. Also, head over to the Greencine Daily to listen to a podcast featuring Shelton, along with stars Mark Duplass and Joshua Leonard. Humpday was a spotlight premiere at SXSW 2009.

SXSW alumni Bruno and Soul Power are among todays theatrical releases, in addition to expanded schedules for Moon, and The Hurt Locker. Busy weekend!

MMORPG fans, get ready to check out SXSW 2008 world premiere Second Skin, in theaters and on DVD. Don't know what an MMORPG is? get ready to check out Second Skin, in theaters and on DVD, and find out!

The News Reel - Thursday, July 9, 2009

jim — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:52:15 +0000

Cinematical points out that Hulu is currently hosting the first 8 minutes of The Hurt Locker, a spolight premiere at SXSW 2009. Mild spoilers, but that's sort of the point.

IFC.com features a fascinating, provocative comparison of two of the big releases of the week, both of which enjoyed a SXSW presence. Brüno and Humpday are both on release from tomorrow.

The Financial Times also takes a look at Bruno, with another mention for Jeffery Levy-Hinte's Soul Power, a US premiere at SXSW 2009.
Both films feature again, in the latest edition of The Guardian's Film Weekly Podcast.

Check out this review of Eric Kutner & Adam Goldstein's The Snake, a special screening at SXSW 2009.

Congratulations to SXSW alum Katherine Dieckmann (Diggers, 2007), whose latest feature, Motherhood has just been picked up by iDeal Partners Film Fund and Killer Films.

End of Day Friday is Deadline for Programming Proposals

hugh — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 16:36:38 +0000

Over the last few weeks, SXSW has received lots of great ideas for panels at the 2010 event. But, we know that the SXSW community is stocked with many many more amazing brainstorms about the most relevant concepts, issues, innovations, improvements, and changes with regards to new media, music and film. So, if you are part of this international community and you have a great panel idea for next spring, then we want to hear from you ASAP! Please send us your idea via the SXSW Panelpicker interface. And please hurry -- this interface closes at 11:59 pm Central Time on Friday, July 10.

SXSW 2009 - Moon Premiere and Q&A

matt — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 15:52:21 +0000

Filmmaker Duncan Jones and actor Sam Rockwell took to the SXSW red carpet back in March to celebrate Moon, their indie space opus screening at Austin's Paramount Theatre.

Wait, you missed it? Well lucky for you our cameras were there to capture the event, as well as Jones and Rockwell taking to the stage for a post-screening Q&A. The film itself is already on release in select cities, hitting Austin on July 10th, but you can whet your appetite right now with with our awesome wrap-up video, below:

check out the SXSW Youtube channel for more videos...

SXSW 2009 - ExTerminators Premiere Q&A

matt — Fri, 08 May 2009 21:57:43 +0000

"Ex-terminators" is a black comedy centering on Alex (Graham), a lonely accountant whose one act of rage results in her being sentenced to court ordered therapy. There she meets Stella (Coolidge), the owner of a small extermination business who uses her car as a weapon; and Nikki (Heard), a dental technician with the face of an angel and the mind of a sociopath. Together these women will form their own 'silent revolution', wrecking havoc on the men of Texas.

A Conversation with Col Needham

andrew — Fri, 01 May 2009 17:51:03 +0000

SXSW aims to bring to light the fascinating origins of the go-to database, IMDB.com. As definitive and important as the site has become in the world of film and entertainment, surprisingly little is known about its visionary founder. An early adopter of the Internet's burgeoning potential, Needham developed his essential site from a simple spreadsheet into an established online stalwart, with over 57 million unique visitors each month. More recently, its implementation of digital video hosting and streaming has secured IMDb's reputation at the forefront of the savvy cinephile's online experience.

Moderator: Eugene Hernandez Co-Founder & Editor in Chief, indieWIRE

Col Needham Founder/Managing Dir, IMDB.com

Eugene Hernandez Co-Founder & Editor in Chief, indieWIRE

Check out the podcast here »

Observe and Report: A Case Study - A Man and His Gun

andrew — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 18:54:54 +0000

One of our most eagerly anticipated premieres, Observe and Report, gets the panel treatment as we welcome director Jody Hill, producer Donald Deline, and actors Seth Rogen, Anna Faris and Michael Pena for a special session moderated by Film Critic Elvis Mitchell. Get the inside track on the art of great timing, and find our what comedy in the trenches is really like in what is sure to be a lively, sparkling exchange.

Moderator: Elvis Mitchell Film Critic, NPR

Elvis Mitchell Film Critic, NPR

Seth Rogen Observe and Report

Anna Faris Observe and Report

Michael Pena Observe and Report

Jody Hill Observe and Report

Check out the podcast here »

SXSW 2009 - Observe and Report: Comedy Gone Dick

matt — Tue, 14 Apr 2009 21:14:19 +0000

SXSW Interactive Panel Picker Is Up!

jarod — Fri, 08 Aug 2008 18:17:09 +0000

SXSW Interactive has opened the floodgates to the 2009 Interactive Panel Picker. You can now vote for your favorite ideas for the 2009 event, and there is even a category on Digital Filmmaking. The Interactive and Film Festivals will be joining forces again this year for 16 joint Film/Interactive panels. These joint panel sessions will be open to all Film and Interactive registrants, but if you want to really experience the unique industry convergence only SXSW can offer, then get yee a Gold Badge!

A Gold Badge is your best way to experience the enormity of what SXSW Film and Interactive have to offer! Get access to all Film and Interactive keynotes, conference sessions, priority entry to all Film screenings, and invitations to all the Film and Interactive parties you can handle. Buy today and get the best of both the Film and Interactive festivals at the lowest rate of the year. Check out the SXSW attend page for more information.