Your brief - 24h (15 articles)

Variety reports that Taskovski Films has acquired the sales rights to Dawood Hilmandi’s debut feature documentary “Paikar”, set to premiere in the Luminous section at IDFA. The film explores the intricate relationship between Hilmandi and his father, a former mujahideen fighter turned poet, as they traverse locations marked by faith, violence, and exile in Afghanistan, Iran, and Iraq. Taskovski’s Irena Taskovski describes the documentary as a timely reflection on the human cost of conflict, while producer Frank Hoeve emphasizes its intimate storytelling. This acquisition could enhance the global visibility of films rooted in personal narratives from conflict zones, sparking discourse on family dynamics and cultural resilience. Variety

According to The Guardian, “Left-Handed Girl”, directed by Shih-Ching Tsou, has been selected as Taiwan’s submission for the Oscars in the Best International Feature category. The story, centered on familial struggles and societal superstitions in Taipei, has been lauded for its tender exploration of duty versus desire. Critics have highlighted Tsou’s unique cinematography, which captures the vibrant essence of urban life through iPhone filming. This submission not only elevates Taiwan’s cinematic narrative but also reinforces the role of independent cinema in intimate, culturally specific storytelling. Variety

Variety highlights Idris Elba’s short film “Dust to Dreams”, which premieres on EbonyLife ON Plus on November 14. Set in Lagos, the story revolves around family reconciliation through music, featuring performances by Seal and prominent Nollywood actors. Produced by Mo Abudu, the film challenges Western stereotypes of African stories by focusing on universal values like familial love. Its BAFTA and Oscar qualification could signify growing recognition for African narratives in global cinema, especially as platforms like EbonyLife ON Plus amplify regional creativity. Variety Source 37

Variety reports that the upcoming Marrakech Film Festival (Nov. 28 - Dec. 6) will feature conversations with prominent filmmakers and actors, including Jodie Foster, Guillermo del Toro, and Bong Joon Ho. The festival will also spotlight Moroccan documentaries exploring themes of exile and memory. With Bong Joon Ho as jury president, this event underscores the global significance of diverse cinematic voices and the increasing prominence of North African cinema on the international stage. Hollywood Reporter Source 38

The Guardian explores how sound system culture, originating in Jamaica, has become a significant influence in UK art and fashion. From Peter Doig’s Serpentine exhibition to Valentino’s flagship installations, these sonic traditions are being reimagined and democratized. Experts see this trend as a bridge between marginalized cultural roots and mainstream creative industries, though concerns about cultural commodification remain. This resurgence highlights the evolving appreciation of sound as both art and heritage. Variety Source 36

Variety announces a co-production deal for the Yakutian folk-horror feature “Thaw”, directed by Stepan Burnashev. The film intertwines themes of shamanic initiation and climate change, reflecting indigenous Sakha perspectives. Both cultural specificity and global relevance could position “Thaw” as a unique narrative in the rising genre of eco-focused cinema, potentially broadening the discourse on environmental storytelling. Variety

The Boston Globe highlights Miso Mozza, a new Itameshi-style restaurant in Providence blending Japanese and Italian culinary techniques. This niche gastronomic fusion, which originated in Japan, is now gaining traction in New England’s dining scene. The restaurant’s innovative menu and upscale aesthetic reflect broader trends in cross-cultural gastronomy, catering to diners seeking refined, globally influenced experiences. Variety

Variety reports on Disney+’s Asia Pacific strategy, which includes gaming IP adaptations and microdramas. Collaborations with industry veterans like Kojima Hideo aim to refine localized storytelling while tapping into emerging formats like vertical video. This initiative highlights Disney’s adaptability in meeting diverse audience demands and leveraging cultural specificity to compete in an increasingly fragmented content market. However, challenges with maintaining quality standards in shorter formats remain. The Guardian Source 34

The Hollywood Reporter examines the growing impact of AI in independent filmmaking, with technology enabling cost-efficient animation and storytelling. While some view AI as democratizing filmmaking, concerns over intellectual property rights and the erosion of human creativity persist. A recent German court ruling against ChatGPT for copyright violations reflects the legal complexity surrounding AI use. Industry leaders advocate for ethical frameworks to balance innovation with creative integrity. Hollywood Reporter Source 35

Al Jazeera shares the story of Warda Abu Jarad, a blind woman in Gaza who launched a bakery after losing her sight in an Israeli airstrike. Despite ongoing humanitarian challenges, her initiative exemplifies resilience in adversity. This personal narrative underscores the broader plight of civilians in conflict zones, as aid organizations continue to call for increased humanitarian support for Gaza. Hollywood Reporter