News

I'm excited to update you on 'Coup De Chance's global journey. Since we last spoke, this cinematic gem has premiered in Bulgaria, Hong Kong and Holland in November and recently graced Italy on December 6th. Excitingly, Australia and Ukraine are set to join the club on December 26th and 28th. For 2024, Germany eagerly awaits its turn on April 11th. Stay tuned for more release dates. I know those of you in the UK, US and Canada are desperate for news … just like me! Don’t forget if you have release news, DM me on my socials!

The good news is that with new releases come new opportunities for us to hear from Woody himself when he does interviews with media outlets. Below is one he recorded recently with SBS in Australia. I love this one because the interviewer is just like us—an obvious fan!

You can watch the video below.

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New Blog Post: Vittorio Storaro: “I’m still a student”

The following is an article by Gianmaria Tammaro from Lucky Red. Lucky Red is an Italian film distribution and production company, founded in Rome by Andrea Occhipinti in 1987. The translation isn’t perfect so thanks for your understanding.

Keep reading … click here.

Quote of the Month

"All men fear death. It's a natural fear that consumes us all. We fear death because we feel that we haven't loved well enough or loved at all." - Midnight in Paris (2011)

The assertion that "All men fear death" encapsulates a profound and timeless aspect of human nature. This sentiment speaks to the universality of the human experience, transcending cultural and temporal boundaries. The fear of death, as articulated in the quote, can be understood as a fundamental human instinct rooted in our self-awareness and capacity for emotional depth. It implies a deep-seated concern that our lives may be incomplete or unfulfilled, particularly in the realm of love (a theme returned to time and again in Woody Allen films). The fear of not having "loved well enough or loved at all" suggests a poignant connection between mortality and the pursuit of meaningful relationships. In a more academic context, this observation prompts contemplation on the existential themes of human existence, underscoring the significance of love and connection in the face of mortality. It invites further inquiry into the intricate interplay between our fear of death and our pursuit of a life imbued with purpose and meaningful relationships.

Film Spotlight: Hollywood Ending (2002)

Woody Allen stars as Val Waxman, a two-time Oscar winner turned washed-up, neurotic director in desperate need of a comeback. When it comes, Waxman finds himself backed into a corner: Work for his ex-wife Ellie (Tea Leoni) or forfeit his last shot. Is Val blinded by love when he opts for the reconnect? Is love blind when it comes to Ellie's staunch support? Literally and figuratively, the proof is the picture.

Mini Review

"Hollywood Ending," is a film that dances on the delicate line between the absurd and the poignant. It's a story about Val Waxman, a filmmaker who once kissed the stars but now finds himself stumbling in the dark alleys of his career. Allen, with his unique brand of humour, injects life into Val, making him a character you can't help but root for despite his flaws.

The film is peppered with lines that are quintessentially Woody Allen - a mix of self-deprecating humour, sharp wit, and an underlying layer of existential dread. Take for instance Val's line, “Our marriage wasn't going anywhere. Where do you want it to go? Where do marriages go? After a while, they just lay there. That's the thing about marriages.” This quote captures the essence of the film's humour - it's funny, a bit tragic, and incredibly human​​.

Critics had varied responses to the film. Roger Ebert, with his seasoned eye for cinema, found "Hollywood Ending" enjoyable but not Allen's best. He appreciated the film's clever concept and Allen's verbal wit but felt it didn't fully exploit its potential. Ebert pointed out that while the film was entertaining, it didn't quite hit the mark of greatness that some of Allen's other works have achieved​​. The overall critical reception mirrored this sentiment, acknowledging the film's creativity but noting its shortcomings in execution​​.

In all, "Hollywood Ending" is a film that shows the human side of Hollywood – the insecurities, the absurdities, and the occasional triumphs. It's a Woody Allen film through and through, with all the neurotic charm and wit that his fans love, even if it isn't his most acclaimed work.

Trivia

The film opened the 2002 Cannes Film Festival. It was the first of three Allen films to open Cannes, the other two being Midnight in Paris (2011) and Café Society (2016).

One more Thing …

Did you think I would forget the great mans birthday?!?! Woody Allen turned 88 on November 30th or December 1st (read ‘Apropos of Nothing’ for that story) and I’m sure you will join me in wishing him many more years of good health and creativity.

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