Ritzfilm
JULY 2012 VOLUME 2 • ISSUE 4
SISSY SPACEK’S MEMOIR REVIEW | AROUND THE BLOCK: SOUTH PHILLY INTERVIEW WITH DIRECTOR OF FOLLOW ME: THE YONI NETANYAHU STORY RELIEF FOR PHILLY WEEKEND WARRIORS
July 2012
table of contents 5 Letter from the Publisher 6 Ask Ritz Film Magazine 8 Film Focus: Interview with Ari Daniel Pinchot, Producer & Director of Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story Student Review: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
14 Around the Block: South Philadelphia 20 Book Review 22 Arts Calendar 23 Relief for Philly Weekend Warriors 38 Crossword Puzzle
28 Now Showing 2 Days In New York ....................................... 36
The Queen Of Versailles ................................ 32
A Cat In Paris................................................. 33
Ruby Sparks .................................................. 37
Beasts Of The Southern Wild ........................ 34
Searching For Sugar Man.............................. 31
Celeste And Jesse Forever............................ 29
Take This Waltz .............................................. 28
Chicken With Plums ...................................... 36
To Rome With Love ....................................... 33
Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story .......... 29
Trishna ........................................................... 30
Lola Versus .................................................... 30
Whore’s Glory ................................................ 34
Moonrise Kingdom ........................................ 29
Your Sister’s Sister ........................................ 36
ABOVE TOP: Actress Quvenzhane Wallis as “Hushpuppy” on the set of BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD. Photo Credit: Ben Richardson ABOVE BOTTOM: Left to Right: Golshifteh Farahani as Irâne and Mathieu Amalric as Nasser Ali in CHICKEN WITH PLUMS. Photo by ©Patricia Khan, Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics COVER: Left to Right: Roberto Della Casa as Uncle Paolo and Penélope Cruz as Anna in TO ROME WITH LOVE. Photo by Philippe Antonello ©Gravier Productions, Inc., Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
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A magazine for the Landmark Ritz Theatres Published by R&W Publishing Associates publisher Lisa H. Rafter 215-765-2646 lisarafter@ritzfilmmag.com Editor Abigail Sutton 609-707-6069 abigail@ritzfilmmag.com advertising sales Jamie Berman 610-609-1635 jamie@ritzfilmmag.com art director Hedy Sirico hedy@ritzfilmmag.com
Ritz Film Magazine is published 8x’s per year by R&W Publishing Associates. Distributed at Ritz Theatre locations and designated locations throughout Philadelphia and the surrounding suburbs. For more information regarding editorial content, advertising or distribution, please contact us at: r&w publishing associates 315 Poplar Avenue Devon, PA 19333 215-765-2646 info@ritzfilmmag.com landmark ritz theatres www.landmarktheatres.com 215-925-7900 rItz theatre phIladelphIa locatIons: Ritz Five: 214 Walnut Street Ritz at the Bourse: 400 Ranstead Street Ritz East: 124 South Second Street
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letter from the publisher Dear Ritz lovers! Wait til you see the movie line up for this summer. As always, there’s plenty to do in Philadelphia in the summer (see p. 23, Abigail Sutton’s Relief for Philly Weekend Warriors!). But in the next few months you won’t want to miss the movie picks at Landmark’s Ritz Theatres! This issue of RFM lists 16 “must see” movies that you are not likely to see anywhere else but the Ritz. The movie selection ranges from Ritz favorite Woody Allen’s To Rome With Love, to a film version of the classic Thomas Hardy novel Tess of the D’Urbervilles. There is also Whore’s Glory, a powerful expose of global prostitution and on the lighter side Ruby Sparks, a raw and funny exploration of interpersonal relationships. This issue also presents an interview with the director behind the powerful documentary, Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story. I had the opportunity to get the “story behind the story” from director Ari Daniel Pinchot. In a candid and intimate interview, Ari talks about why he made this film and the impact he wants it to have on the world. The Around the Block section features the world famous South Philadelphia neighborhood. For movie lovers, the home of Rocky Balboa. RFM’s Jamie Berman immersed herself in the heart of South Philly and wrote an article highlighting the sights, the sounds, the smells…everything sensual about the Italian Market & the emerging East Passyunk Avenue. The section also includes a full, handy list of What to Do, and of course, Where to Eat in South Philly. Yes, the list includes Geno’s & Pat’s Steaks! Also inside is a book review by Gary Kramer of the charming and revealing Sissy Spacek memoir, My Extraordinary Ordinary Life. As Kramer writes, the memoir “is exactly what one might expect from the Oscar-winning actress—an entertaining mix of homespun wisdom interspersed with tales of unexpected celebrity.” And don’t miss the student review column. In this issue Nina Coleman reviews The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel, a John Madden film with an ensemble cast of actors that Coleman claims is “one of the strongest points of the film.” Enjoy! Stay cool and stay inside this summer…at the Ritz of course! Sincerely,
Lisa H. Rafter Publisher
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ask ritz film magazine By Andrew Repasky McElhinney – “The Movie Doctor”
I just saw Woody Allen’s new movie To Rome With Love and I loved it. I can pick a winner a mile away, and I know To Rome With Love is gonna be an even bigger hit with audiences than Allen’s last movie, Midnight in Paris. Apart from triple-threat Woody himself, Darius Khondji’s cinematography is a large part of what makes To Rome With Love awesome. Khondji is one of my favorite cinematographers and he captures Rome in Allen’s film in a way I’ve never seen before. What are your favorite movies about, or shot in, Rome? —Janet Costello, Fairmount
I love how educated about cinema Ritz Film Magazine readers are! I could not agree with you more about Darius Khondji—all his work is worth viewing on the big screen. From Delicatessen (1991), to Se7en (1995), to Zidane: A 21st Century Portrait (2006), you can see why Khondji is one of the top names in the business working today (... incidentally, my other votes would go to Edward Lachman, Harris Savides and Christopher Doyle). But, to answer your question, Federico Fellini’s 1960 film, La Dolce Vita feels like the quintessential Rome movie to me. Watching the film is like taking a vacation to Rome. Some close
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second “best Rome movies” would be a few other Fellini titles like Fellini Satyricon (1969), Fellini’s Roma (1972) and Amarcord (1973). Whether shot on location, or on soundstages, these motion pictures capture the vibrancy of the “eternal city.” Shot on a soundstage in England, the 1976 BBC mini-series, I, Claudius is an exciting and thrilling vision of ancient Rome which holds up well today. Bob Guccione’s Caligula (1979) is an unforgettable, unrelenting train-wreck of a picture which, while I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it, I wouldn’t tell you never to see it either! Since you are so knowledgeable about cinematographers, you won’t go wrong exploring the work of other Italian filmmakers like Sergio Leone, Lucio Fulci, Michelangelo Antonioni and Pier Paolo Passolini—while not always shooting in Rome itself,
As a tot, I musta watched The Ice Pirates a billion times with my babysitter. I just went back to the movie with my new boyfriend and was shocked to see that John Carradine was in it as “The Supreme Commander.” Now as an adult, I know Carradine from classics like Dimples (1936), The Grapes of Wrath (1940), Revenge of the Zombies (1943), House of Frankenstein (1944), The Court Jester (1956) and The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance (1962) but I was shocked to discover him my childhood favorite, The Ice Pirates. I thought Carradine died in the 1970s. . . did The Ice Pirates use stock footage of Carradine or was that really him on set? —Jeff Clark, South Philly
The Ice Pirates (1984), a Star Wars knockoff, is a lot of wacky, silly fun—if you are in the right mood. And yes, they got John Carradine on set for a few days for a nifty little performance. Carradine liked—or needed—to work. Born February 5, 1906, Carradine kept acting into his eighties before he died in Italy on November 27, 1988. And even then, they couldn’t stop him! He had one movie, 1990’s Buried Alive, come out after his departure from the world. My favorite Carradine performances—and you are right that there are so very many—are two films he did with Edgar G. Ulmer at PRC-Producers Releasing Corporation: 1943’s Isle of Forgotten Sins and 1944’s Bluebeard. Beware of shoddy public domain DVD prints of these Ulmer two titles, but if you can track down the All Day Entertainment DVD of Bluebeard, the film looks great. That is true too for the transfer of Isle of Forgotten Sins included as an extra (worth the price alone) to the documentary Edgar G. Ulmer—The Man Off-screen (2004) released by Kino International.
Woody Allen and Mia Farrow in 1991’s “Shadows and Fog”
these directors have an aesthetic clearly nurtured by the city.
I saw a movie that was shot part in black & white and part in color that starred Woody Allen and Jeremy Irons. I thought it was 1992’s Shadows and Fog, but when I went to re-watch it, the movie was entirely in black & white and Jeremy Irons was not in it. Did I imagine a Jeremy Irons / Woody Allen collaboration? —Lori Morgenstein, Fishtown
Within six months of each other, at the end of 1991 and the start of 1992, two rather bizarre, but wonderful, art movies came out (and both played the Ritz)—Woody Allen’s underrated and almost forgotten, Shadows and Fog, and Steven Soderbergh’s imperfect but curious, Kafka. Shadows and Fog is a black & white movie, shot by the great Carlo Di Palma on a giant 26,000-squarefoot sound stage, which, at the time, was the largest ever built in New York. In addition to the cinematography, the film gains much mood from being scored with Continuedon page 27
dr. andrew repasky mcelhInney is a feature film & theater director, author, educator and the programmer of Andrew’s Video Vault at the Rotunda (featuring free cult movie screenings on 2nd Thursday of each month). Visit: ARMcinema25.com
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A pause in battle, Mt. Hermon, Yom Kippur War, October 1973 Courtesy: NETANYAHU FAMILY
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Interview with Ari Daniel Pinchot, Producer & Director Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story By lisa h. rafter—Publisher, Ritz Film Magazine Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story is the story of the commander of an elite Israeli army commando unit who was killed during Operation Entebbe, a hostage-rescue mission carried out at Entebbe Airport in Uganda on July 4, 1976. The documentary is an intimate journey into Yoni’s mind. The narration is drawn from his letters and words, which unveil the complex character of this thoroughly modern young hero. Yoni’s words are deeply moving through his deep-rooted introspection, self-understanding, and heartfelt passions.
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Lisa: What did you want to achieve by creating this documentary? Ari: I started the journey of making this movie 16 years ago as a young director in my mid-twenties. I was amazed at Yoni’s collected correspondence—letters filled with honesty, fear, conflict and introspection—the whole spectrum of human experience. I think Yoni’s character and story provides a great role model for young people. He was incredibly good looking and smart—a Harvard grad—yet sacrificed his own ambitions for his country. There is such drama in Yoni’s ethical conflicts. This makes him a true 21st century hero,
somebody for people to emulate—which is why we called the movie Follow Me. The most galvanizing example of Yoni’s inner conflict is the “kill letter” which we include in the documentary. In it, Yoni talks about killing people at close range. It’s eerie and chilling, and one hopes that every soldier feels the moral ambivalence the way Yoni does—that in warfare all humanity is not lost. No matter what side of a conflict, soldiers are asked to do inhuman things and I hope that they preserve their soul at the same time by understanding the greater good of their actions. Of course, I also wonder if this is possible. In his letters, Yoni also communicates about the conflict in his personal life. As he turns 30, Yoni starts to realize he doesn’t have everything—he’s missing a lot in his personal life. So seeks out another partner. But—when he finds a woman he loves, he starts losing his edge, that laser focus. And, this might have been what caused him to lose his life. So what is the cost of war—and at what is the cost of love? Lisa: What was it about Yoni’s letters that inspired you? Ari: The reason I was drawn to Yoni’s story is because of the sacrifices that were involved. This is a story of a man torn between two worlds. You can especially see the sacrifices in the interview with his wife, Tutti Goodman. On the day of our interview, she wasn’t sure if she wanted to do it. This was her first interview ever. She shows you the “other side of that sacrifice”. They were an iconic couple. Top of their class in high school, went to Harvard together. She’s this brilliant young, beautiful woman. But their union is a downward spiral because of the life he leads for his country. She understands his sacrifices but she also gives the viewer her experience of them, as a human being going through them and as the wife going through them. Her husband is out there
killing, and not with her, and so she is constantly going through things in life without her partner. She sacrificed a lot and, for her, it was not ok. Lisa: Yoni talked about sadness often in his letters. He spoke about beauty but also very much about sadness. Tell me about this. Ari: We really wanted to show all of Yoni. People know he was a great military leader but do they know of his sadness? For the voice of Yoni’s letters in the documentary we chose actor Marton Csokas. His voice is commanding, masculine, but there is a real poetry to it. We wanted to bring out that unique element of Yoni. It’s what made him special in terms of how he lived his life, how he enjoyed living, and how he valued being able to make a contribution to his nation. A military man with poetry inside of him equals a very rare and really remarkable character.
A military man with poetry inside of him equals a very rare and really remarkable character. Lisa: Your choice of music in the documentary was beautiful. Very soft and serene. How did you choose it? Ari: A lot of credit is owed to Charlie Barnett, the music producer. There are two unique things about the music in our movie. We chose music that is romantic and heroic, but not Middle Eastern. It’s not authentic to the region we are depicting, but it gives the movie a universal element that is in tandem with the universal hero we wanted to praise with our movie. Secondly, we didn’t want the music to fight Yoni’s words. We wanted Yoni’s words be the lyrics and have the music support those words. The more people are able to focus on his words, the more they will be in Yoni’s world,
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Tutti and Yoni wedding, August 1967 Courtesy: TIRZA GOODMAN
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and the more they can follow him. That’s why the camera lingers on photographs of Yoni and thus has people focus on them for a duration—this way, viewers can actually be with Yoni. Lisa: What was it like to be with Benjamin Netanyahu? He is so vulnerable in his interview. Ari: We didn’t want it to be a political film—we didn’t want people bringing their politics to the movie. We wanted it to be Yoni’s human interest story. When we interviewed Benjamin, we had him meet us at his childhood home. We talked to him for a half an hour before the actual interview about his childhood and not about Yoni at all. This allowed him to go back in time and what he then delivered on camera was really remarkable. He’s a polished politician but was able to talk to us like a brother and not like the Prime Minister of Israel. Viewers will see that also with Ehud Barak. Ehud and Benjamin were able to open up to us with their emotions and that is the raw, rare power of the movie. Lisa: How did this project transform you? Are you different now? Ari: First of all, I’m a better letter writer! Seriously, I had three transformative results from going through this movie. First, I realized that I needed to focus on impacting a greater audience. I got
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into filmmaking because I wanted to be a teacher, and with filmmaking I could impact lots and lots of people. This movie confirms that I was correct—there is a way for one person to impact a great many people and really make a difference. Secondly, I have a greater appreciation for the people of Israel and the sacrifices they have made …and keep making… for their nation. Because of Yoni, I have a deeper understanding of individuals and humanity and its frailty. Finally, the interviews we had with the soldiers left me in awe. They had such fear when they got off the plane and spoke of the darkness but also had such humanity left intact. These are the kinds of soldiers that you want defending your country. I have such a greater appreciation for them now. Lisa: What do you want people to take away from the film? What would fulfill you? Ari: I started off wanting people to be inspired. It’s interesting seeing people after the film is finished screening. When I get up for a Q&A, people are quiet. They are processing the complexities of life and our choices and our sacrifices. I think the fact that people have come out of the movie with such different reactions is an indicator of how many ways it can touch people. That’s heart warming. And to watch people absorb the complexity of Yoni’s life—I think that was our goal. To show a true hero. •
arI danIel pInchot
is the director and producer of Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story. He is the CoFounder and President of Crystal City Entertainment. Having enjoyed much success in the documentary arena, Ari has now turned his focus toward dramatic feature films.
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student reVIew
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Image courtesy of Fox Searchlight
By nina coleman—Junior, University of the Sciences in Philadelphia
I
s it ever too late to try? Certainly not for the characters of John Madden’s The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. The film explores the experiences of seven British people who recently retired and separately from each other decided to move to Marigold Hotel in India. While the hotel turns out to be far less than is described in the brochure, the place has a few surprises in store for its new inhabitants, helping them to see their lives for what they really are, and learn to thrive. As Judy Dench’s character puts it, the biggest failure is not to try. We are introduced to seven elderly people each of whom experiences their own private revelation—a big stage of their lives has ended and they are far from happy in their current state. There is Evelyn (Judi Dench), whose husband passed away recently. She has never really done anything without her husband, and now, she decides to travel all the way to India by herself. Graham (Tom Wilkinson), who grew up in India, is a judge who is one day struck by the realization that this is it—it’s time to retire. We find Muriel (Maggie Smith) at a hospital, as she needs a hip replacement, and her best option is to go to India for the operation. Douglas (Bill Nighy) and Jean (Penelope Wilton) have been married for almost forty years and lost their savings while helping out their daughter to start her business. Madge (Celia Imrie) and Norman (Ronald Pickup) are quite similar in their not-always-successful pursuits of the opposite sex. Marigold Hotel is run by Sonny (Dev Patel), a disaster of a manager, who also has some life-changing experiences after the arrival of his seven guests. Such an ensemble of actors is definitely one of the strongest points of the film, as every character is effortlessly unique and distinct, with every single one of them evoking a sense of compassion in the viewer. Evelyn becomes the narrator in a way, through
The ensemble of actors is definitely one of the strongest points of the film, as every character is effortlessly unique and distinct, with every single one of them evoking a sense of compassion in the viewer.
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posting about everything that happens on her blog. It’s an interesting touch on modern times, a way of connection between the older and the younger generations. The theme of generations is also ever-present in Sonny’s struggle to stand up to his family and, on a larger scale, of India becoming more modernized. As the characters go through many heartbreaking, heart-warming, and sometimes funny situations, we too might make some discoveries about ourselves. The visual presentation is beautiful - the film does indeed capture the assault on the senses that is India. Each character works out a kind of every day routine and each one of them has their very own experience of the country and its people. Most see and feel the magic, while others can’t wait to get back to England. The way people adapt in unfamiliar environment often allows for their true character to show, and people in this film are no exception. These seven people might not have gotten what they expected—or thought they wanted—but they got exactly what they needed. To put it in Sonny’s words, everything will be all right in the end. If it’s not all right, it’s not the end. •
nIna coleman is a Junior at University of the Sciences in Philadelphia where she’s majoring in Humanities and Science. To read more of her work, visit filmsdissected.blogspot.com.
rFm FIlm Focus: student moVIe reVIews! Ritz Film Magazine welcomes Philadelphia area university students to submit movie reviews. We want to encourage young people to write and to give voice to what is being produced for the big screen. So if you are a university student who enjoys movies and writing, email abigail@ritzfilmmag.com.
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around the block a spotlight on philadelphia’s unique neighborhoods
south phIladelphIa South Philly is iconically known for the invention of the cheesesteak, Oscar winning film Rocky, the Italian Market, and depending on your age: Bobby Rydell. It’s comprised of many coterie neighborhoods, which build a lofty blueprint to yield an outline of South Street to the north, the Delaware River to the south & east and the Schuylkill River to the west. Generationally charged with deep-rooted history and a large Italian influence, even the bricks in this section of town are eager to tell a story! Here’s a quick look at two of the neighborhoods we toured for our story; East Passyunk Avenue and The Italian Market. They will each beguile you with their Old World and New World charm.
The Italian Market & East Passyunk Avenue By Jamie Berman
phIladelphIa’s 9th street ItalIan market America’s oldest & largest working outdoor market
To experience one of the most potent samplings of generationally run businesses, step into the Italian Market. Running from Wharton to Federal streets, you can find 100’s of family owned and operated businesses dominating the area. The scene has been described as a sort of medieval bazaar, we found it to be more of a mecca of must haves…pasta, cheese, meat, fish, produce, coffee, spices, baked goods, kitchen ware, flowers, jewelry—you name
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it, they got it, and you must have it! Speaking of must haves, we stopped in Iannelli’s bakery for some Best of Philly Tomato Pie, and were greeted by 3rd generation storeowner, Vince Iannelli. The pie was outstanding, if you haven’t done it, do it and don’t be surprised if you find your brain telling you to do it again …and again. While we were deciding whether “to do it again”, we observed an influx of customers ascending the Iannelli’s stoop, embarking on their mission, and then descending back into society, but now with a happy, smiling face. Vince seemed to know exactly what they wanted, here’s the kicker: before they asked for it. We’re not talking about anticipating the regulars’ needs, but the “out of towners”!! He seemed to anticipate their desires; with a sort of Italian Market telepathy, he was reading their minds. A woman from New York came in with a strong hankering for a cannoli, before the words came out of her mouth, they came out of his…and a crispy-shelled pastry was then placed in her anxious hand. This inherent intuition seems prevalent throughout the entire market. The stores are very attuned to who is walking through their doors and
they seem to always anticipate what they want! To further perpetuate the accommodating nature of the market, Vince offered to walk us down to his cousin Anthony’s water ice store, where he thought we might enjoy a cool treat, after our savory slice. Anthony Cardullo, 3rd generation owner of John’s Water Ice, quickly offered us some all-natural flavored ice. We saw pictures of President Obama enjoying his stop at John’s Water Ice from June of last year. It must be that everybody has to taste the ice! We ordered chocolate, a hard to come by flavor, if not in the city of brotherly love. Vince shared with us that he likes to mix the pineapple water ice with Malibu Rum when concocting adult refreshments. We found out John’s Water Ice is actually used in a handful of cocktail recipes around town, don’t be surprised to find this on a future RFM best kept secrets list! While the Italian Market landscape has a very Old World feel, behind the scenes, many of the stores have started to adopt New World practices. I met with Louis Sarcone Jr., 4th generation storeowner, of Sarcone’s Bakery. He shared with us that he’s been incorporating more
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around the block
social media into his business practices. You’d be surprised how much Twitter and Facebook are becoming a way of life for the store operators in the market and e-commerce has warped into an almost inevitable future. If you stop by the sarconesbakery.com website, you will find LIVE STREAMING video of his bakery (and deli)!! It’s Reality TV, Italian Market style. Putting all talk of technology aside, Sarcone’s Bakery has some of the most famous bread in history, extremely well known for their hoagie rolls, people go way out of their way to make sure they get a perfectly soft centered roll with crispy, flakey crust to accompany their sandwich fixings. We must admit, it was a little hard to stay focused on Louis. As charming as he was,
carbohydrate heaven was within site, protected by glass and playing quite a number on our smelling senses. Truthfully, there’s a lot of greatness to get distracted by in the market, so if you have enough willpower to stay the course and complete your shopping list without excessive impulse buying, then visit the market. If you’re in from out of town, out of neighborhood, or usually out of control when it comes to shopping, try ordering your goodies on the web. Many stores have gone “Italian Market On Demand” with shipping products to your doorstep. Check out your favorite stores online or give them a call to see if shipping is available, you just might be surprised and delighted! 9thstreetitalianmarket.com
east passyunk aVenue Shop, Stroll, Dine, Discover
If you are looking to be pleasantly surprised this summer with clandestine restaurants and retail, you are looking to DISCOVER: East Passyunk Avenue. Formerly, a predominately older, Italian American section of the city, it is now also home to singles and young professionals of varying ethnicities, who are making this trendy hot spot a hipster
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hub. With five blocks of charming storefronts to tour, you will start to wonder if you have been transported to a European Village, or if South Philadelphia has always harbored such unexpected stylish aesthetics! On prior descents into this section of town, one could argue that the most notable landmark in the area was the big blue fountain. Once you spotted the fountain, you could almost taste the homemade pastas and sauces lurking around the corner. At that time, there weren’t a whole lot of other reasons to jump over into the Avenue, it was an off the beaten path excursion. Well, times sure have changed! While the Singing Fountain is still there, it’s not the only thing discerning the area these days.
Renee Gilinger, Executive Director of the East Passyunk Business Improvement District, gave us a tour of the area and explained why this location is quickly becoming a South Philadelphia favorite. Let’s start with the dining, everybody’s favorite attraction. Some very popular chefs have made their way to the Avenue in order to claim space for their own culinary ventures. Some of these restaurants have since opened, while others are scheduling for an open in the near future. There is a generous slice of restaurants that have been reviewed & rated by top food critics and very enthusiastically endorsed. Here’s a good example of what previously drew people’s appetites to EPA.
Day or night, East Passyunk Avenue is a wonderful place to stroll, shop, & dine..
Just a few minutes from Center City, the East Passyunk shopping and dining district is home to 150+ independentlyowned shops and restaurants.
Stroll. Shop. Dine. Discover! www.visiteastpassyunk.com
Scan the tag for discounts, directions, events + more!
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marketplace: south philly
iannellisBakery.net 215-468-0720 1155 E. Passyunk Ave. Philadelphia, PA 19147 “Best of Philly”
“It’s All About the Bread” www.sarconesbakery.com 215-922-0445 Follow us on twitter @sarconesbakery! 756-58 South 9th St., Philadelphia PA 19147
trescaliniphiladelphia.com 215-551-3870 B.Y.O.B. 1915 East Passyunk Ave., Philadelphia PA 19148
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around the block Introducing a restaurant that needs no introduction, Tre Scalini Ristorante, by Chef Franca DiRenzo. Here you’ll find an authentic array of home cooked, traditional, Italian food, along with some layers of more creative regional fare. Chef Franca’s dishes are inspired by her hometown traditions in Molise, which is located in central Italy, not too far from Rome & Naples. From saffron gnocchi & wild boar to truffle sauces & tartufo finishes, this ristorante will leave you wanting for nothing when your meal is complete! Some of the newer accompaniments to the area include clothing boutiques, organic grocery markets and a garden center. The ambitious, twenty-something crowd has made quite an impression, by embracing their inner entrepreneur and opening up several stores around the block. Draped in one of a kind threads, these young adults have managed to design, make and market signature blends of unique affordable fashions. If you’re up for a little hunting, it’s been mentioned that some of these boutiques carry very big named designers, at very affordable prices. Renee shared with us that rent in this area is still low and the storeowners are able to pass along respective savings to their customers. Another affordable feature of the area is parking; get more than three times the juice out of your quarters! Your 7-8 min quarters are now poof: 30 minutes on the Avenue! Lastly, if you’re one of those people that needs a time sensitive event to draw you into town, check out the district’s website for an up to date event listings …and don’t forget to come hungry! This is soon to be a very beaten path! www.visiteasypassyunk.com •
around the block
what to do and where to eat In south phIlly eats Anthony’s Italian Coffee & Chocolate House
903 South 9th Street 215-627-2586 www.italiancoffeehouse.com
Claudio’s
926 South 9th Street 215-413-0314 www.caludiofood.com
DiBruno Brothers
930 South 9th Street 215-922-2876 www.dibruno.com
Esposito’s Meats
1001 South 9th Street 215-922-2659 espositosmeats.com
Essence Market & Café 719 South 4th Street 215-922-1146 www.essenemarket.com
Fuel
1917 East Passyunk 215-468-FUEL www.fuelphilly.com
Geno’s Steaks
1219 S 9th St 215-389-0659 www.genosteaks.com
Green Aisle Grocery
1618 East Passyunk 215-465-1411 www.greenaislegrocery.com
Iannell’s Bakery
1155 East Passyunk Ave 215-468-0720 www.iannellisbakery.com
Izumi
1601 East Passyunk Ave 215-271-1222 www.izumiphilly.com
John’s Water Ice
701 Christian St 215-925-6955 www.johnswaterice.com
Le Virtu
1927 East Passyunk Ave 215-271-5626 www.levirtu.com
Paesano’s
1017 South 9th St 215-922-2220 www.paesanosphillystyle. com
Pat’s King of Steaks
1237 East Passyunk Ave www.patskingofsteaks.com
Pradiso Restaurant & Wine Bar
1627 East Passyunk Avenue 215-271-2066 www.paradisophilly.com
Ralph’s Italian Restaurant
760 South 9th Street 215-627-6011 www.ralphsrestaurant.com
Ristorante Tre Scalini
1915 East Passyunk Ave 215-551-3870 trescaliniphiladelphia.com
Sarcone’s Bakery
758 South 9th St 215-922-0445 www.sarconesbakery.com
Taffets, Previously Tote’s Gluten Free Bakery 1024 South 9th Street 215-551-5511
Talluto’s Authentic Italian Food 944 S. 9th St 215-627-4967 www.tallutos.com
The Village Belle
757 South Front St 215-551-2200 www.thevillagebelle.com
recreation American Swedish Historical Museum
SmörgåsBeer’d: July 14, 5-8pm / Crayfish Party: August 17, 6pm 1900 Pattison Ave 215.389.1776 www.americanswedish.org
Bella Vista Town Watch
2nd Annual Bella Vista House Tour: September 30th Stroll by the 9th Street Market, Fleisher Art Memorial & funky South Street, Catch an in depth look at the area’s architectural diversity. For more information contact: JoAnn Greco, jgreco@ bvtw.org
Philadelphia’s Magic Gardens
Art/Gage: July 28th noon10pm PMG’s fifth annual summer festival featuring music, dance, poetry, fire arts, interactive activities, and live art creation 1020 South Street 215-733-0390 www.phillymagicgardens.org
Mummer’s Museum:
Free Summer String Band Concert Every Thursday 1100 South 2nd St 215-336-3050 www.mummersmuseum.org
East Passyunk Avenue Business District
7th Annual Car Show & Street Festival: July 29, noon-5pm Between Broad & Dickenson www.visiteastpassyunk.com
XFinity Live! Philly’s Dining & Entertainment District Free Summer Concert Series Every Saturday 1100 Pattison Ave www.xfinitylive.com
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Book reVIew
My Extraordinary Ordinary Life By Gary m. kramer
Sissy Spacek’s memoir, My Extraordinary Ordinary Life, is exactly what one might expect from the Oscar-winning actress— an entertaining mix of homespun wisdom interspersed with tales of unexpected celebrity.
The best chapters chronicle Spacek’s early life in Quitman, Texas, where she grew up as the spunky youngest child in a close-knit middle-class family. My Extraordinary Ordinary Life is less about her work in Hollywood—though her experiences making Badlands, Carrie, and Coal Miner’s Daughter are well documented—than it is about the life lessons she developed as a young girl and later as a wife and mother. Spacek charms readers by revealing her grit as a child. Complaining to her mother who “abandoned” her one afternoon, Spacek’s mother replied, “You’re so dramatic. You should be an actress.” The advice kind of stuck, but Spacek reveals she originally wanted to be a singer. She recalls her decision to go into show business was cemented at age six, when she saw a performance by the Coquettes. She started learning the guitar and dreamed of being a singer/songwriter. One amusing story she recounts is about being a teenager and learning that the radio played music—it was not just for farm reports, which is what her father had used a radio for in their house. She also reveals the peculiar detail that she used to go to the movies in the middle and after they ended, stay for the beginning, to solve the puzzle of figuring out the plot.
20 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
My Extraordinary Ordinary Life paints Spacek’s childhood as mostly idyllic, with her experiences riding bareback on horses or learning to drive at age 7 or 8 as fun (mis)adventures. But the untimely death of her older brother shook Spacek and her family, and helped her understand the value of living everyday to its fullest. As a mother now, Spacek recounts letting her own daughters experience some risk and danger to learn what they are made of. The lesson served her well. The second part of the memoir recounts the actress’ life in New York City. She first spent a summer living with her cousin, Rip Torn, and his then wife, Geraldine Page. Spacek moved to New York instead of going to college and describes her coming of age and getting of wisdom. She had odd encounters with Terry Southern, Robert Redford, and Woody Allen; played music in a steakhouse (her first real show business job), and jammed with Gregg Allman. Eventually, she got work in Hollywood, making the film Prime Cut, with Lee Marvin and Gene Hackman, and learning what life was like on a film set. But Spacek writes most eloquently about making Badlands with Terrence Malick. Not only was the film a career-changing experience, but it also introduced the actress to her husband, art director Jack Fisk. The stories of their romance form the backbone of My Extraordinary Ordinary Life. Fisk introduces his wife to David Lynch, his best friend from art school in Philadelphia. Lynch became one of Spacek’s closest friends—he gave a terrific speech when she received her Hollywood star—and later directed her in The Straight Story. The actress shares many interesting anecdotes about making films. She reveals how she prepared her Carrie screen test by smearing Vaseline in her hair and donning a blue sailor dress to look “like a total dork.” She describes clinching the role of Carolyn Cassidy in the film Heart Beat when she shattered a wine glass she was grasping too hard. And she admits she almost turned down The Help because the
[The book] succeeds because it is appropriately unpretentious. Spacek values her family and her career; what comes across is her hard work, and consideration for others. part wasn’t fleshed out enough on the page. Yet the bulk of Spacek’s film recollections in her memoir concern her role as Loretta Lynn in Coal Miner’s Daughter. She describes how Lynn insisted Spacek was going to play the role years before the film was in development. The actress had every intention of turning it down, and even went to meet Lynn to tell her this. But, of course, Spacek was impressed by Lynn and spent time getting to know the country music legend, learning her voice and how to perform her songs. Coal Miner’s Daughter brought Spacek worldwide acclaim, an Oscar, and a priceless telegram from Dolly Parton. But as the actress writes, it also prompted her to move away from Hollywood to Virginia to return to the simple life she enjoyed as a child. Getting the chance to pick the roles she wanted, she starred in Raggedy Man, an homage to her mother, directed by her husband. She also learned to balance family and career, raising two daughters, Schuyler and Madison outside of the industry. My Extraordinary Ordinary Life succeeds because it is appropriately unpretentious. Spacek values her family and her career; what comes across is her hard work, and consideration for others. What is perhaps the most remarkable thing about Spacek is that she never took her extraordinary ordinary life for granted. •
Gary m. kramer is the author of
Independent Queer Cinema: Reviews and Interviews and co-editor of the forthcoming Directory of World Cinema: Argentina.
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arts calendar There’s so much to do in Philadelphia that planning your weekend can be a bit daunting. Here we include some below-the-radar events from organizations and art centers we hold dear. We have also included some carefully selected options brought to you by our loyal advertisers, which will leave you with a diversified menu to fill your plate. See you around Philly! MUSIC
ART
Jeffrey Gaines Kennett Flash, Kennett Square 7/20
Neon Art: Folk, Found, & Fine Philadelphia Center for Architecture Through 7/27
Wine Concert w/ Rob Creidler, Feel Good Music Market by Shady Brook Farm at Del Val College 7/20
Bold Patterns, Bright Colors: Graphic Pennsylvania Quilts, 1850-1930 Mercer Museum Through 7/29
2012 XPoNential Music Festival WXPN at the Wiggins Waterfront Park and Marina, Camden 7/20-7/22 Philadelphia Rock ‘N Blues Fest Keswick Theater 8/15 DANCE Philadelphia International Night at Positano Coast by Aldo Lamberti: 830pm-2am Dance & socialize, every other Thursday Night. Upcoming Dates: 6/28, 7/12 & 7/26 Tango Beginner Lessons Philadelphia Argentine Tango School Every Friday Ballet X Summer Series 2012 The Wilma Theater 7/11-7/15 CHI Artists Summer Workshops Chi Movement Arts Center Through 8/24 Philly Fringe Live Arts Festival Various locations throughout Philly 9/7-9/22 FOR KIDS Trail of the Lorax The Philadelphia Zoo Through 10/31
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Offering of the Angels: Treasures from the Uffizi Gallery James A. Michener Art Museum, Doylestown Through 8/12 Imagine Africa with the Penn Museum University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology Through 8/31 Titanic Philadelphian Exhibit Independence Seaport Museum Through 4/14/13 FWM: Solo exhibitions of three L.A.-area artists Fabric Workshop and Museum Through 9/2 Francoise Gilot Exhibition Ursinus College— Berman Museum of Art Through 9/23 OTHER 18th Philadelphia QFest 2012 Produced by Philadelphia Cinema Alliance Featuring over 120 international LGBT films 7/12-7/23 The Fourth Annual 2nd Street Festival Northern Liberties: noon-10pm 8/5
Relief for Philly Weekend Warriors By abigail sutton
No Beach house this summer? Look no further, there’s plenty to do on Saturday and Sunday if you stay metropolitan this summer. WXPN’s World Café Live Sounds Off in Philly & Wilmington If you’re a music fan you know 88.5FM, the public radio station playing everything from The Roots to Willie Nelson. Their digs in University City, World Café Live, are incredible and house the radio station studios, a full service restaurant and bar, as well as two sizeable performance spaces and dance floors. Online, you can view the concert calendar; it’s simply packed – featuring events at multiple venues across the city. This year’s XPoNential Music Festival promises to hit some high notes, as in previous years. The setting for the festival is Wiggins Park and Marina in Camden.
As the hot summer day rolls on and the sky gets darker, the city lights and music shine on throughout 3 days of music from 7/20 to 7/22. There are activities and entertainment for adults and children alike. Some of the musician highlights this year include Kathleen Edwards, Diego Garcia, Ozomatli and all 3-day pass purchasers will receive a ticket to the Susquehanna Bank Park (next door to Wiggins) to see Wilco, The Avett Brothers, Dr Dog on 7/21 and Counting Crows on 7/22. It’s three days of music you don’t want to miss! Live at the Queen is Wilmington’s own location for live music. It’s a fully restored historic theater in downtown Wilmington. In July talent such as Eric Mayo, Gin Blossoms and David Berkeley will perform.
The Mann Center - Photos Courtesy of Matt LaRoche
Wine Lovers Pinot Wine Boutique is located in the heart of Old City at 227 Market St. Pinot is the place for attending wine classes, buying accessories, and your favorite varietal. First Sip Fridays’ tasting events occur four times a month. Regular events also include singles tastings and wine day cruises on the Delaware. On July 18 Pinot will host a class on developing your Wine IQ. The Brandywine Wine Trail is made up of 8 wineries that are opened year-round for your enjoyment. Each winery has unique characteristics all its own. With many music and food events throughout the summer – there’s always something special going on. Paradocx Vineyard
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Image courtesy of Paradocx Vineyard, Landenberg, PA
AMERICA-ITALY SOCIETY OF PHILADELPHIA
SUMMER 2012 ITALIAN CLASSES. Native certified teachers; Beginner and Language & Culture classes 10 WEEK PROGRAM June 18th - August 31, 2012 Special coupon for students GIRO D’ITALIA: FULL IMMERSION SATURDAY June 23: Rome and Lazio; July 28: Venice and Veneto; August 23: Sicilia. Beginner and Intermediate levels 10:00am to 4:00pm, light lunch included $150 – 30%off for AIS members. ALSO Classical Music Concerts, Italian Movies, Lectures, and trips to Italy! 1420 Walnut Street, Suite 310 215-735-3250 • info@aisphila.org www.aisphila.org
is a personal favorite. It’s located in the rolling hills of Southern Chester County, around some beautiful homes and farms. Paradocx is known for their fun and practical 3.5-liter paint can “boxed wine” which makes a great gift. Try their Barn Red; it’s a lovely blend of Sangiovese and Cabernet Franc grapes. This summer Paradocx features a full concert schedule, check out their website for more details. The wine trail is located within minutes of other sites such as Longwood Gardens, Winterthur Museum & Country Estate, Lancaster Amish Country, Historic Kennett Square and Hagley Museum, among others.
First Fridays in Manayunk or Old City or Second Saturdays in Collingswood Fun and free don’t typically go together. However, if you’re spending the first Friday of the month in Manayunk or Old City you’ve made a wise (and thrifty) choice. Each neighborhood hosts their own arts crawl from about 5PM to 9PM. Shops have specials and art galleries feature special exhibits. Get outside and browse art, sample delicious food from area merchants and spend the evening under the summer sky walking around your favorite neighborhood. Collingswood is just over the Ben Franklin Bridge but it feels like an entire world away. Second Saturdays congregate around Haddon Ave., the main street to this quaint town with historical homes in the Victorian style. Collingswood Second Saturdays boast live music as well as local art and many food options.
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The Mann Center The Mann Center for the Performing Arts was founded in 1935 under the name Robin Hood Dell Concerts, as the summer venue for the concert presentations of the world famous Philadelphia Orchestra. The Center moved into its present outdoor facility in 1976, and subsequently was designated the Mann Music Center in honor of Frederic R. Mann, a Philadelphia businessman who supported the cause of summer musical performances in Fairmount Park. In 1998, the facility was renamed to “The Mann Center for the Performing Arts” to reflect the Center’s plans to broaden its programming and service to the overall community. The Mann is the best place to watch a performance outside in the city, hands-down. In the middle of Fairmount Park, surrounded by the stunning architecture of the amphitheater and trees, it’s unforgettable. This summer’s performances include Patti LaBelle, Sigur Ros, Jane’s Addiction, My Morning Jacket, Jackie Evancho and many performances by the PECO Pops.
Brunch & A Farmers’ Market There’s nothing better than a stroll through a farmers’ market on a Saturday or Sunday morning. And why not pair it with brunch? Here’s a list of decadent brunch spots that are located within walking distance to favorite farmers’ markets to explore: Headhouse Market—2nd and Lombard, Sundays 10-2 Bridget Foy’s—200 South St. Village Belle—757 S Front St Fitler Square Market—23rd and Pine St., Saturdays 9-2 Ants Pants Café—2212 South St La.VA Café—2100 South St Pub & Kitchen—1946 Lombard St Clark Park Market—43rd and Baltimore, Saturdays, 10-2 RX Restaurant—4443 Spruce St Aksum—4630 Baltimore Ave Gold Standard Café—4800 Baltimore Ave
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solutIon to last Issue’s crossword puzzle
47 North 3rd Street Philadelphia, PA 19106 | 215-923-0508 | www.margotcamille.com
26 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
ask the Ritz Continued from page 7
preexisting, haunting music from genius Kurt Weill (of The Threepenny Opera, Rise and Fall of the City of Mahagonny, Lady in the Dark, Lost in the Stars, etc, fame). In the Shadows and Fog screenplay, Allen adapts and expands his one-act comedy, Death, which was first published in his 1975 collection of writing, Without Feathers. With a comic tone all Allen’s own, Shadows and Fog follows the adventure of a Kafkaesque “Everyman” named Kleinman (Allen himself) as he wanders the streets of a European city of the 1920s where a serial killer is on the loose murdering people and, to complicate things, a Felliniesque Circus has come to town. Shadows and Fog does not feature Jeremy Irons but does host a galaxy of stars including Victor Argo, Mia Farrow, John Malkovich, Madonna, Donald Pleasence, Lily Tomlin, Jody Foster, Kathy Bates, John Cusack, Philip Bosco, Wallace Shawn, Kenneth Mars and Julie Kavner among even more! Jeremy Irons stars in 1991’s Kafka, director Soderbergh’s second film (after his 1989 breakthrough Sundance—and Ritz Five—hit sex, lies and videotape). Kafka is loosely inspired by the titular writer (especially his novel, The Trial), yet the movie has tone more akin to a pretentious remake of the fantastic 1967-68 Patrick McGoohan TV series, The Prisoner or Terry Gilliam’s muddled cult classic, Brazil (1985) than actual Franz Kafka writing. Soderbergh’s Kafka movie features both black & white and color sequences. Kafka has never been released on DVD in the US but was issued as a handsome, letterboxed Laserdisc by Paramount in the mid-1990s. Today this edition is a rare treasure for those of us who held onto our LD players and still keep the format alive! •
reach phIladelphIa area’s most adVenturous resIdents! advertise in
Ritzfilm For advertising rates & Information, contact: Jamie Berman 610-609-1635 jamie@ritzfilmmag.com
2301 Fairmount Avenue • Philadelphia 215.978.4545 londongrill.com •• ••• • •• • •• • ••• •••• ••• •• • • • • • ••••
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Image Courtesy of Mongrel Media
now showing
Visit www.landmarktheatres.com for movie schedules and additional information.
take thIs waltz Director: Sarah Polley | Run time: Rated R / 116 Minutes | Mongrel Media Seth Rogan, Michelle Williams, Sarah Silverman, Aaron Abrams, Luke Kirby, Graham Abbey When Margot (Michelle Williams) meets Daniel (Luke Kirby) their chemistry is intense and immediate. But Margot suppresses her sudden attraction; she is happily married to Lou (Seth Rogan) a cookbook writer. When Margot learns that Daniel lives across the street from them, the certainty about her domestic life shatters. She and Daniel steal moments throughout the steaming Toronto summer, their eroticism heightened by their restraint. Swelteringly hot, bright and colorful like a bowl of fruit, TAKE THIS WALTZ leads us, laughing through the familiar, but uncharted question of what long-term relationships do to love, sex, and our images of ourselves. 2 Days In New York ....................................... 36
The Queen Of Versailles ................................ 32
A Cat In Paris................................................. 33
Ruby Sparks .................................................. 37
Beasts Of The Southern Wild ........................ 34
Searching For Sugar Man.............................. 31
Celeste And Jesse Forever............................ 29
Take This Waltz .............................................. 28
Chicken With Plums ...................................... 36
To Rome With Love ....................................... 33
Follow Me: The Yoni Netanyahu Story .......... 29
Trishna ........................................................... 30
Lola Versus .................................................... 30
Whore’s Glory ................................................ 34
Moonrise Kingdom ........................................ 29
Your Sister’s Sister ........................................ 36
28 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
Tutti, Yoni and dog Lara courtesy of Tirza Goodman
Left to Right: Rashida Jones as Celeste and Andy Samberg as Jesse. Photo by David Lanzenberg, Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
Image Courtesy of Focus Features
moonrIse kInGdom Director: Wes Anderson Run time: PG-13 / 100 minutes Focus Features Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murray, Tilda Swinton, Jason Schwartzman, Bob Balaban, Jared Gilman, Kara Hayward The new movie directed by two-time Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Wes Anderson (The Royal Tenenbaums, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Rushmore). Set on an island off the coast of New England in the summer of 1965, MOONRISE KINGDOM tells the story of two 12-year-olds who fall in love, make a secret pact, and run away together into the wilderness. As various authorities try to hunt them down, a violent storm is brewing off-shore – and the peaceful island community is turned upside down in every which way.
celeste and Jesse ForeVer Director: Lee Toland Krieger Rating: Rated R | Emma Roberts, Elijah Wood, Rashida Jones, Eric Christian Olsen, Andy Samburg, Ari Graynor, Chris Messina, Janel Parrish A divorcing couple tries to maintain their friendship while they both pursue other people.
Follow me: the yonI netanyahu story Directors: Jonathan Gruber & Ari Daniel Pinchot Run time: 87 Minutes / Unrated | Crystal City Entertainment Various interviews with Ben Zion Netanyahu, Benjamin Netanyahu, Prime Minister of Israel, Tirza “Tutti” Goodman and many others FOLLOW ME: THE YONI NETANYAHU STORY is an intimate journey into a young hero’s mind. The narration for this compelling film was drawn from Yonatan Netanyahu’s own letters and words, which unveil the complex character of this thoroughly modern young hero.
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Greta Gerwig as “Lola” and Hamish Linklater as “Henry” on the set of LOLA VERSUS. Photo By Myles Aronowitz
now showing
lola Versus Director: Daryl Wein Run time: 86 Minutes Fox Searchlight Greta Gerwig, Zoe ListerJones, Joel Kinnaman, Hamish Linklater, Debra Winger, Bill Pullman
Greta Gerwig plays Lola, a 29-year-old woman dumped by her longtime boyfriend Luke (Kinnaman) just three weeks before their wedding. With the help of her close friends Henry (Linklater) and Alice (Lister-Jones), Lola embarks on aseries of desperate encounters in an attempt to find her place in the world as a single woman approaching 30.
trIshna
Image Courtesy of Focus Features
Director: Michael Winterbottom Run time: Rated R / 117 Minutes | Focus Features Freida Pinto, Riz Ahmed, Anurag Kashyap, Kalki Koechlin, Roshan Seth, Neet Mohan, Aakash Dahiya, Harish Khanna
Based on Thomas Hardy’s classic novel Tess of the D’Urbervilles, TRISHNA tells the story of one woman whose life is destroyed by a combination of love and circumstances. Set in contemporary Rajasthan, Trishna (Freida Pinto) meets a wealthy young British businessman Jay Singh (Riz Ahmed) who has come to India to work in his father’s hotel business. After an accident destroys her father’s Jeep, Trishna goes to work for Jay, and they fall in love. But despite their feelings for each other, they cannot escape the conflicting pressures of a rural society which is changing rapidly through industrialisation, urbanisation and, above all, education. Trishna’s tragedy is that she is torn between the traditions of her family life and the dreams and ambitions that her education has given her.
30 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
Rodriguez. Photo by Hal Wilson, Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
searchInG For suGar man Director: Majik Bendjelloul | Run time: 85 Minutes | Sony Pictures Classics Dennis Coffey, Mike Theodore, Dan DiMaggio, Jerome Ferretti, Steve Rowland, Willem Moller, Craig Bartholomew-Strydom. Ilse Assmann, Steve M. Harris, Robbie Mann, Clarence Avant, Eva Rodriguez, Sixto Rodriguez, Regan Rodriguez, Sandra RodriguezKennedy, Rick Emmerson, Rian Malan
In the late ‘60s, two celebrated producers, who were struck by his soulful melodies and prophetic lyrics, discovered a musician in a Detroit bar. They recorded an album that they believed was going to secure his reputation as one of the greatest recording artists of his generation. In fact, the album bombed and the singer disappeared into obscurity amid rumors of a gruesome on-stage suicide. But a bootleg recording found its way into apartheid South Africa and, over the next two decades, it became a phenomenon. Two South African fans then set out to find out what really happened to their hero. Their investigation led them to a story more extraordinary than any of the existing myths about the artist known as Rodriguez. SEARCHING FOR SUGAR MAN is a film about hope, inspiration and the resonating power of music.
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Jackie Siegel in THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES, a Magnolia Pictures release.
now showing
the Queen oF VersaIlles Director: Lauren GreenField | Run time: PG / 100 Minutes | MPC Jackie Siegel, David Siegel
THE QUEEN OF VERSAILLES is a character-driven documentary about a billionaire family and their financial challenges in the wake of the economic crisis. With epic proportions of Shakespearean tragedy, the film follows two unique characters, whose rags-toriches success stories reveal the innate virtues and flaws of the American Dream. The film begins with the family triumphantly constructing the biggest house in America, a 90,000 sq. ft. palace. Over the next two years, their sprawling empire, fueled by the real estate bubble and cheap money, falters due to lack of financing. Major changes in lifestyle and character ensue within the cross-cultural household of family members and domestic staff.
32 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
Left to Right: Alec Baldwin as John and Jesse Eisenberg as Jack. Photo by Philippe Antonello © Gravier Productions, Inc., Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
to rome wIth loVe Director: Woody Allen Run time: 112 Minutes Sony Pictures Classics Woody Allen, Alec Baldwin, Roberto Benigni, Penelope Cruz, Judy Davis, Jesse Eisenberg, Greta Gerwig, Ellen Paige
TO ROME WITH LOVE is a kaleidoscopic comedy movie set in one of the world’s most enchanting cities. The film brings us into contact with a well-known American architect (Baldwin) reliving his youth; an average middle-class Roman who suddenly finds himself Rome’s biggest celebrity (Benigni); a young provincial couple (Mastronardi and Tiberi) drawn into separate romantic encounters; and an American opera director (Allen) endeavoring to put a singing mortician on stage. While Rome is a city abundant with romance and comedy, Woody Allen’s TO ROME WITH LOVE is about people having adventures that will change their lives forever.
Image Courtesy of GKids
a cat In parIs Directors: Jean-Loup Felicioli, Alain Gagnol Run time: PG / 70 Minutes | GKids (Voice Only) Dominique Blanc, Bruno Salomone, Jean Benguigui, Bernadette Lafont, Oriane Zani, Bernard Bouillon
Dino is a cat that leads a double life. By day, he lives with Zoe, a little girl whose mother, Jeanne, is a police officer. By night, he works with Nico, a burglar with a big heart. Zoe has plunged herself into silence following her father’s murder at the hands of gangster Costa. One day, Dino the cat brings Zoe a very valuable bracelet. Lucas, Jeanne’s second-in-command, notices this bracelet is part of a jewelery collection that has been stolen. One night, Zoe decides to follow Dino. On the way, she overhears some gangsters and discovers that her nanny is part of the gangsters’ team.
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WHORE’S GLORY Director: Michael Glawogger Run time: Multiple Languages with English Subtitles / 119 Minutes Kino Lorbe
WHORE’S GLORY, the third film in Michael Glawogger’s globalization trilogy (following Megacities, Workingman’s Death), is an explicit and unflinching exposé of global prostitution. Glawogger’s latest larger-than-life documentary is an audacious, non-judgmental study of sexuality, politics, human behavior and the effects of capital and religion on both women and men from starkly different cultures.
Actress Quvenzhane Wallis as “Hushpuppy” on the set of BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD. Photo Credit: Jess Pinkham
Thailand. A Kino Lorber release. Photo Credit: Vinai Dithajohn
now showing
34 JULY 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
BEASTS OF THE SOUTHERN WILD Director: Benh Zeitlin Fox Searchlight Quvenzhané Wallis and Dwight Henry
In a forgotten but defiant bayou community cut off from the rest of the world by a sprawling levee, a six-year-old girl exists on the brink of orphanhood. Buoyed by her childish optimism and extraordinary imagination, she believes that the natural world is in balance with the universe until a fierce storm changes her reality. Desperate to repair the structure of her world in order to save her ailing father and sinking home, this tiny hero must learn to survive unstoppable catastrophes of epic proportions.
Courtesy of IFC Films
your sIster’s sIster Director: Lynn Shelton | Run time: Rated R/ 90 Minutes | IFC Emily Blunt, Rosemarie DeWitt, Mark Duplass, Mike Birbiglia, Mel Eslyn, Jeanette Maus, Kate Bayley
The fourth feature from Sundance award-winning filmmaker Lynn Shelton (Humpday), YOUR SISTER’S SISTER is a tale of grief, romance and sibling rivalry that continues to showcase Shelton’s extraordinary ability to portray human stories with remarkable humor, sensitivity and warmth. A year after his brother Tom’s death, Jack (Duplass) is an emotionally unstable slacker. When he makes a scene at a memorial party, Tom’s ex-girlfriend Iris (Blunt) offers up her family cabin on an island in the Pacific Northwest so Jack can seek catharsis in solitude. Once there, however, he runs into Iris’ sister Hannah, a lesbian reeling from the abrupt end of a seven-year relationship who finds solace in the affable Tom’s unexpected presence, and the two bond over a long night of drinking. The blurry evening concludes with an awkward sexual incident made worse by Iris’ sudden presence at the cabin the next morning which sets into motion a twisted tale of ever-complicated relationships. With raw, funny and emotional performances from an all-star cast, Shelton once again honestly explores the complexities of interpersonal relationships while gently poking fun at her characters’ predicaments.
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2 days In new york Director: Julie Delpy Run time: Rated R / 96 Minutes MPC Chris Rock, Julie Delpy, Albert Delpy, Alexia Landeau, Alexandre Nahon, Kate Burton, Dylan Baker, Daniel Bruhl, Talen Ruth Riley
Mathieu Amalric as Nasser Ali. Photo by ©Patricia Khan, Courtesy of Sony Pictures Classics
Marion (Delpy) has broken up with Jack (Two Days in Paris) and now lives in New York with their child. But when her family decides to come visit her, she’s unaware that the different cultural background held by her new American boyfriend Mingus (Rock), her eccentric father, and her sister Rose who decided to bring her ex-boyfriend along for the trip, added to her upcoming photo exhibition, will make up for an explosive mix.
chIcken wIth plums Directors: Marjane Satrapi & Vincent Paronnaud | Run time: FRENCH (with English subtitles) / 91 Minutes | Sony Pictures Classics Mathieu Amalric, Edouard Baer, Maria de Medeiros, Golshifteh Farahani, Eric Caravaca, Chiara Mastroianni, Mathis Bour, Enna Balland, Didier Flamand, Serge Avedikian, Rona Hartner
Teheran, 1958. Since his beloved violin was broken, Nasser Ali Khan, one of the most renowned musicians of his day, has lost all taste for life. Finding no instrument worthy of replacing it, he decides to confine himself to bed to await death. As he hopes for its arrival, he plunges into deep reveries, with dreams as melancholic as they are joyous, taking him back to his youth and even to a conversation with Azraël, the Angel of Death, who reveals the future of his children... As pieces of the puzzle gradually fit together, the poignant secret of his life comes to light: a wonderful story of love which inspired his genius and his music...
36 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com
Julie Delpy stars as Marion in Magnolia Pictures’ 2 Days in New York
now showing
(L-R) Actor Paul Dano as “Calvin,” director Valeria Faris, actress/writer Zoe Kazan as “Ruby” and director Jonathan Dayton on the set of RUBY SPARKS. Photo Credit: Merrick Morton
ruBy sparks Directors: Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris | Fox Searchlight Paul Dano, Zoe Kazan, Antonio Banderas, Annette Bening, Steve Coogan, Elliott Gould, Chris Messina and Deborah Ann Wol
Calvin (Dano) is a young novelist who achieved phenomenal success early in his career but is now struggling with his writing – as well as his romantic life. Finally, he makes a breakthrough and creates a character named Ruby who inspires him. When Calvin finds Ruby (Kazan), in the flesh, sitting on his couch about a week later, he is completely flabbergasted that his words have turned into a living, breathing person. With raw, funny and emotional performances from an all-star cast, Shelton once again honestly explores the complexities of interpersonal relationships while gently poking fun at her characters’ predicaments.
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Philadelphia 1776-1976: A Bicentennial Bonanza
summer is indeed uponus. this month, we get historical, if not at times hysterical. since 1776, all eyes have turned toward our fair city for obvious reasons. this crossword puzzle does the samein the form of a bicentennial bonanza of sorts peppered with a numbers game. so, the numbers 1776, 1976, 76, 1936 (76 years ago) and any variance thereof factor into many of the clues that follow … as do other mentions of our beloved city and its considerable contribution to the cinematic art form.
By stuart papavassiliou
ACROSS 2 When she died in 1976, so did Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot. 5 Character who is 17 going on 18. 8 Hedren played this troubled Hitchcock character. Look for 30th Marnie Street Station in this film. 10 He’s 17 Again. 11 This Howard was a Silverblatt before he took on this more exotic last name. He was also the most famous Ben Franklin of his time. 13 It all adds up (1776) in this 2008 film about six MIT students 14 She turned 76 this year with “A Touch of Class” no doubt. First name only. 16 Restaurant in The Sixth Sense – It’s a “big fish.” Two words. 19 More shots of 30th Street Station in this Peter Weir film. 20 She’s 76 today and at one time lived at 1313 Mockingbird Lane on TV. She’s a Munster on TV but this in real life. Ironically, what’s her last name? 21 He was born in 1976, but by 2011 he was one of the Horrible Bosses. First name here. 24 This Main Line socialite inspired the Tracy Lord character in The Philadelphia Story. Middle name only. 26 To figure out this actress’ name who was born in 1976, think Princetonians, Presbyterians and Peanut Butter Cups. 28 It takes 76 of these to lead the big parade. 29 He was born Alphonso D’Abruzzo 76 years ago. In 1996, he played Richard Schlichting in Flirting With Disaster. Full name 30 Filmed in Philly, it took 12 of these ... not 76. 31 It takes more than 76 of these. In fact it takes 110 of these close at hand 32 Street that leads to Girard College’s entrance. Founders Hall (think columns) was used in the film Anapolis. 35 Disney’s National ------- had a few flaws including a SEPTA bus where it doesn’t belong. 36 This 1976 film advised: If you have a taste for terror, take her to the prom. 39 This director turned to Philly’s Academy of Music to recreate a 1870’s NYC opera house. 41 Another bad guy, this time in Blow Out. Last name only. 42 Princess Grace’s middle name. 43 OK, 7 ghosts + 6 ghosts= 13 Ghosts. This film has a housekeeper Elaine, but we most remember her as the green-faced beauty in a 1939 movie. Last name only.
44 Dressed to Kill director used the Philadelphia Museum of Art four years after Rocky used them. 45 Ken Howard was the bad guy in Michael Clayton. But in 1972 version of 1776, he was this notable Virginian. 46 Another 1936 film, Garbo played this great Dumas heroine. DOWN 1 Another one, 76 of one thing, 110 off another and rows and rows of the finest of these. 3 The distinctive Philly street where little Haley Joel Osment lived. Three words 4 In 1936 Bergman played a pianist in this movie (Swedish version.) In 1939 she played the same role opposite Leslie Howard. Name the film. 5 This 1976 film with its $1.1 million budget was a box office knock out. 6 Before it was Wells Fargo, and before it was First Union, it was The -------Bank. Trading Places location. 7 Again, 1976: De Niro’s character in Taxi Driver. Full name 9 Directed The Man Who Fell to Earth in 1976. Last name only. 12 She won her only Oscar in 1937 for a 1936 film. BTW, it’s Gale, not Gail. 15 Laura Hope Cruz was in the Garbo film in 1936 and played a French aristocrat. In 1939 she was Scarlett’s aunt in Atlanta. Name the aunt. 17 In 1967, he was the Penguin on TV. Buy 1976, he was Stallone’s coach. First name only. 18 Filmed in Philly in 1976, this one has it all including Peter Falk and John Cassavetes. 19 Mannequin location as it was known then. Sorry Mr. Macy. 22 This George directed The Blue Bird in 1936. Last name please. 23 She won her first Oscar in 1936 in Dangerous from 1935. Name the actress. 25 He fell to earth in 1976. Last name only. 27 Mourning became her in 1947 and we mourned her in 1976. Full name. 28 Cette petite Audrey est nee en 1776 ... cest vrai. 33 This 1976 film told audiences: You have been warned. Sadly, Gregory Peck and Lee Remick didn’t heed the warning. Two words. 34 If it’s such a wonderful world, why did this jazz great go uncredited in High Society? 35 Apartment building at 1520 Spruce. Charlize Theron lived there in The Italian Job. What’s the name of this 1917 landmark? 37 This Canadian actor was born in 1976 ... Definitely, Maybe. Last name definitely. 38 In Neil Simon’s Murder by Death (1976), he was Lionel Twain. In 2005, Phillip Seymour Hoffman portrayed him. Last name or 2005 film name...take your pick. 40 This “big fish” directed the 1936 version of Showboat.
Look for the answers in the next edition of Ritz Film Magazine.
Stuart Papavassiliou is a transplanted Texan who has lived in Philadelphia for the past 28 years. He is an editor of two commercial finance publications who suffers from an addiction to pre-1970s movies. He and his partner live in Fairmount.
38 July 2012 ritzfilmmag.com