News

September was an eventful month for Woody Allen news! We enjoyed his presence at the Venice Film Festival and his numerous live performances with the Woody Allen jazz band. As we enter a new month, we can look forward to the release of Woody's 50th film, "Coup De Chance," in several more countries.

On October 5th, the film premiered in Portugal, and in November, cinema enthusiasts in Poland (November 17th) and the Netherlands (November 30th) will have the opportunity to see it. No news on release dates for the UK, US, Australia or any other territories yet, but I will announce them on my social media profiles as soon as I hear anything.

I'm excited to announce that this month, we had the pleasure of collaborating with one of Woody's favourite actors, Alec Baldwin, on my social media platforms. Alec, who has appeared in three of Woody's films ("Alice," "To Rome with Love," and "Blue Jasmine"), graciously accepted my invitation to record a video discussing his top 5 Woody Allen films. You can watch the videos below.

New Blog Post: Three of the best Woody Allen Films of the 1980s

The 1980s were a decade of significant change and innovation in the world of cinema. Directors were pushing boundaries, experimenting with new techniques, and exploring complex themes. Among the filmmakers who left an indelible mark on this transformative era was Woody Allen. Known for his unique blend of comedy, drama and existential philosophy, Allen’s films from the 1980s are a treasure trove of storytelling brilliance. This article aims to provide an analysis of the best Woody Allen movies released during this decade, dissecting their themes, storytelling techniques, critical reception and lasting cultural impact.

Keep reading … click here.

Quote of the Month

"I'm 12 years old. I run into a Synagogue. I ask the Rabbi the meaning of life. He tells me the meaning of life... But, he tells it to me in Hebrew. I don't understand Hebrew. Then he wants to charge me six hundred dollars for Hebrew lessons." - Leonard Zelig (Zelig, 1983)

This quote is one of my favourites from Woody Allen's brilliant and surreal comedy 'Zelig', as the early 80's movie addresses themes of conformity, identity and the yearning for acceptance in a hilariously insightful way. To provide a unique and original experience for the viewer, the film combines fictional documentary-style footage with historical footage.

Film Spotlight: Irrational Man (2015)

Braylin College's Philosophy Department in Rhode Island is poised to receive its newest instructor, and rumours about him have already become legend. Abe Lucas (Joaquin Phoenix) has a colourful background as an activist, womaniser, and lover of life, in addition to being an accomplished philosopher lecturer and author of numerous books. However, the Abe Lucas that appears is no longer that lively and upbeat individual. He is now a miserable and alcoholic shell of a guy. He befriends one of his pupils, Jill (Emma Stone), and another professor, Rita (Parker Posey), over time, but their companionship and clear affection for him do not boost his spirits. Then, from an unexpected and dark source, he discovers a purpose to live...

Mini Review

For some reason this is one of the least discussed of Woody’s movies but it’s always in my top 10 list of his best films. "Irrational Man" takes you on a philosophical and moral trip that kept me engaged from beginning to end. The direction blends his familiar and much loved trademark wit with a darkly hilarious examination of ethical quandaries and the human mind. Joaquin Phoenix's portrayal of the tormented philosophy professor is interesting and genuine, bringing dimension to a character dealing with complicated philosophical issues. The film's examination of morality, desire and the implications of one's choices will stay with you and if you’ve only seen it once, watch it again! While its analytical and thought-provoking nature may not be for everyone (those who only like light comedy), for me "Irrational Man" is a riveting cinematic experience for anyone that loves cerebral and ethically ambiguous narrative.

Trivia

Abe Lucas (Joaquin Phoenix) previously taught philosophy at the fictional Adair University. This is the same university which Harry Block (Woody Allen) was expelled from and subsequently honoured by in ‘Deconstructing Harry’ (1997) and where Sondra Pransky (Scarlett Johansson) studied journalism in ‘Scoop’ (2006).

Fan Corner

Was this man actually a fan or just someone trying to get some of Woody Allen’s light to shine on him!? Either way Woody doesn’t look impressed.

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