LVHIFF Report: Film Good, Video Bad

Cavite

In the absence of an official Louis Vuitton Hawaii International Film Festival blog, which the fest organizers had said they'd do, but so far have not had the time to write (those guys aren't getting any sleep!), I figured I'd try to help fill the void of fest coverage (really, it's just another opportunity for me to rant about something). To that end, some nuggets from last night:

Hany Abu-Assad fielded questions candidly in a session following a screening of his "Paradise Now," an illuminating film that offers the perspectives of Palestinian suicide bombers and those who love them. When asked why he chose to use film instead of the much easier, lighter, less crew-heavy video to shoot in the wartorn region, he replied, "video is uglier than film," and added that film has a timeless quality--unlike video, its beautiful look never gets old. "Paradise Now" will screen again tonight at 6:30pm. If you miss it, catch the theatrical release later thanks to Warner Independent.

Banjong Parkpoom and Pisanthanakun Wongpoom were present to talk about their Thai horror flick, "Shutter." It was highly derivative of the Asian horror films that have become (too) popular in recent years, but still looked great cinematography-wise, and offered some fresh elements. And, according to the directors, it was made for just $1 million, though it looks much more expensive than that. "Shutter" will be remade (with white people, probably) thanks to usual suspects Roy Lee and Doug Davison, who specialize in remaking Asian horror films.

"Cavite"'s directors Ian Gamazon and Neill Dela Llana were not present at the screening of their film last night, but will be for the next one on 10/27 at 4pm. Their guerilla DV film shot in the Philippines is nominated for the LVHIFF Golden Maile Award for Best Narrative Feature. The film proves that video is not all bad.

For official LVHIFF news, check out the fest's update page and eNews for the latest added screenings, rush line announcements, and event recaps.

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