Welcome to this week’s exploration of significant developments in the world of cinema. This edition opens with an important controversy emerging from Miami Beach.
Miami Beach Mayor Proposes to Revoke Theater Lease
In a controversial move, Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner has suggested rescinding the lease for a theater operating on city property. This move coincides with screenings of the Oscar-winning documentary “No Other Land,” a film produced by a collaborative effort of Israeli and Palestinian filmmakers.
Exploring the daily struggles of residents in Masafer Yatta, West Bank, the documentary presents an intimate look at the impact of living under the threat of displacement by Israeli settlers and soldiers. It also highlights a remarkable friendship between two filmmakers from opposing backgrounds, Basel Adra from Palestine and Yuval Abraham from Israel.
Mayor’s Criticism and Artist Response
Mayor Meiner, having watched the film, labeled it “egregiously antisemitic,” claiming it serves as a “one-sided propaganda attack” inconsistent with the values of Miami Beach. A vote by the city commission regarding his motion to revoke the theater’s lease and cease grant funding for O Cinema is scheduled for Wednesday.
In a statement responding to the mayor’s comments, filmmaker Yuval Abraham asserted, “When the mayor uses the word antisemitism to silence Palestinians and Israelis who proudly oppose occupation and apartheid together, he is emptying it out of meaning. I find that to be very dangerous.”
Abraham emphasized the importance of showcasing such documentaries: “We made this film to reach U.S. audiences from a wide variety of political views.” He warned that attempts to ban the film would likely only increase public interest.
Highlighting Women Filmmakers: Marya E. Gates’ New Book
Shifting gears, film critic Marya E. Gates has recently published a compelling book titled Cinema Her Way: Visionary Female Directors in Their Own Words. This work is a collection of interviews with 20 influential filmmakers, shedding light on their personal journeys and experiences within the industry.
Upcoming events supporting the book include a screening of Gates’ work featuring Allison Anders’ film, Gas Food Lodging, along with discussions at various venues. Gates expressed a unique perspective on the challenges faced by women in film and noted that despite progress, many hurdles remain similar across decades.
Upcoming Film Screenings
Screening of “The Good Girl” and Other Film Highlights
This week also features exciting film screenings such as the screening of The Good Girl (2002), directed by Miguel Arteta. Starring Jennifer Aniston, the film portrays a woman seeking liberation from a mundane life, alongside a cast that includes Jake Gyllenhaal and Zooey Deschanel. The screening will host appearances by director Arteta and actors Deschanel and John C. Reilly.
Retrospectives of Classic Films
Additionally, the New Beverly Cinema will screen a double feature of Alan J. Pakula’s Starting Over (1979) and Michael Ritchie’s Semi-Tough (1977), showcasing Burt Reynolds and Jill Clayburgh in lead roles exploring themes of love and life transitions.
Restoration Screening: “Losing Ground”
Fans of classic cinema won’t want to miss the screening of Kathleen Collins’ Losing Ground (1982), which gained renewed attention following its restoration in 2015, marking a significant moment for Black independent cinema.
Latest Releases and Festivals
Soderbergh’s “Black Bag” Premieres
In recent news, director Steven Soderbergh’s latest film, Black Bag, has drawn interest for its premise involving a couple entwined in both marriage and espionage. The film stars Cate Blanchett and Michael Fassbender, bringing an intriguing dynamic of trust and suspicion to the screen.
Highlights from the South by Southwest Festival
The South by Southwest Film and TV Festival concluded recently, showcasing a plethora of new films and talent. Highlights include the premiere of Paul Feig’s latest project, discussions with various creative teams, and an extensive presentation of new and upcoming films that are set to make waves in the industry.
This week has been eventful in the realms of cinema, reflecting the ongoing dialogues within the film industry. From compelling narratives reflecting historical tensions to raising the voices of women filmmakers, the landscape continues to evolve.
