The Sundance Institute has selected Minhal Baig, Marion Hill, Ciara Lacy, Billy Luther, Chanelle Aponte Pearson, Mariem Pérez Riera, Jamila Wignot and Iman Zawahry for its fourth Momentum Fellowship, supporting professional development for mid-career artists from historically marginalized communities as they explore and develop their creative practice.
The eight fellows selected will participate in a full-year program tailored for each by Sundance Institute staffers, receiving access to unrestricted grant funding, as well as industry mentorship and meetings, a writing intensive, and professional coaching offered by Renee Freedman & Company, with support from The Harnisch Foundation. Additionally, as part of the Sundance Institute’s ongoing partnership with NBCUniversal, the studio will provide an opportunity for select Momentum fellows working on fiction projects to participate in the Universal Directors Initiative. The two-year, at-will initiative, led by Universal’s Global Talent Development & Inclusion team, provides access to NBCUniversal’s creative executives and producers to...
The eight fellows selected will participate in a full-year program tailored for each by Sundance Institute staffers, receiving access to unrestricted grant funding, as well as industry mentorship and meetings, a writing intensive, and professional coaching offered by Renee Freedman & Company, with support from The Harnisch Foundation. Additionally, as part of the Sundance Institute’s ongoing partnership with NBCUniversal, the studio will provide an opportunity for select Momentum fellows working on fiction projects to participate in the Universal Directors Initiative. The two-year, at-will initiative, led by Universal’s Global Talent Development & Inclusion team, provides access to NBCUniversal’s creative executives and producers to...
- 3/8/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Each week we highlight the noteworthy titles that have recently hit streaming platforms in the United States. Check out this week’s selections below and past round-ups here.
See our comprehensive guide to where to stream the best films of 2021.
Clerk. (Malcolm Ingram)
What more can you say about a guy who’s been an open book for the last two-and-a-half decades? Herein lies the challenge of Malcolm Ingram’s warm, American Masters-style portrait of friend Kevin Smith, the kind of guy who frankly feels like a friend to all of his fans. The film, titled Clerk, allows others besides Silent Bob to contribute to the Smith story, chronicling his extensive career in filmmaking, comics, e-commerce, and podcasting. – John F. (full review)
Where to Stream: VOD
The Human Surge (Eduardo Williams)
About five years old and at least ten years ahead, Eduardo Williams’ The Human Surge is the closest...
See our comprehensive guide to where to stream the best films of 2021.
Clerk. (Malcolm Ingram)
What more can you say about a guy who’s been an open book for the last two-and-a-half decades? Herein lies the challenge of Malcolm Ingram’s warm, American Masters-style portrait of friend Kevin Smith, the kind of guy who frankly feels like a friend to all of his fans. The film, titled Clerk, allows others besides Silent Bob to contribute to the Smith story, chronicling his extensive career in filmmaking, comics, e-commerce, and podcasting. – John F. (full review)
Where to Stream: VOD
The Human Surge (Eduardo Williams)
About five years old and at least ten years ahead, Eduardo Williams’ The Human Surge is the closest...
- 11/26/2021
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Alan Brain’s 2021 award-winning “The Rumba Kings” and Jace Panebianco’s “Broken Molds” will be among the films showcased at the Maui Film Festival, which will accommodate guests in an open-air, pod-style seating, from Nov. 17-21 at the Maui Arts and Cultural Center in Kahului. There are 13 premieres among the features in the lineup.
Even though the festival has arranged for guests to show proof of vaccination, for those who wish to participate virtually, 90 feature films and shorts are available to stream. These include Nov. 17 screenings: Emily Sky’s “River,” which explores space and time throughout six continents; Panebianco’s “Broken Molds,” which follows the origin story of windsurfing, and Isaac Halasima’s “Waterman,” a documentary narrated by Jason Mamoa, that tells the story of five-time Olympic Gold medalist Paoa Kahanamoku.
Peggy Callahan and Louie Psihoyos “Mission Joy,” explores the friendship between Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama, and Frauke Sandig’s documentary,...
Even though the festival has arranged for guests to show proof of vaccination, for those who wish to participate virtually, 90 feature films and shorts are available to stream. These include Nov. 17 screenings: Emily Sky’s “River,” which explores space and time throughout six continents; Panebianco’s “Broken Molds,” which follows the origin story of windsurfing, and Isaac Halasima’s “Waterman,” a documentary narrated by Jason Mamoa, that tells the story of five-time Olympic Gold medalist Paoa Kahanamoku.
Peggy Callahan and Louie Psihoyos “Mission Joy,” explores the friendship between Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the Dalai Lama, and Frauke Sandig’s documentary,...
- 11/8/2021
- by Jennifer Yuma
- Variety Film + TV
Chicago – If you ever wondered how a polyamorous relationship might play out – in this case He-She-She – then writer/director Marion Hill has created “Ma Belle, My Beauty” as one such delving into the territory. The Gene Siskel Film Center presents the Sundance Film Festival Award Winner through September 8th, 2021. For more information click Ma Belle, My Beauty.
Rating: 4.0/5.0
What happens when singer Bertie (Idella Johnson) can’t sing anymore? Her collaborator husband Fred (Lucien Guignard) calls her ex-lover Lane (Hannah Pepper), as they were part of a He-She-She relationship before their marriage. The mystery of the connection between Bertie and Lane is the key to this film, an observation into the physical and chemical connection between people and the messy emotions that get in the way. The acting is pitch perfect, and Idella Johnson’s singing voice is heaven on earth. Marion Hill envisions many hallways to go down in this three-way consortium.
Rating: 4.0/5.0
What happens when singer Bertie (Idella Johnson) can’t sing anymore? Her collaborator husband Fred (Lucien Guignard) calls her ex-lover Lane (Hannah Pepper), as they were part of a He-She-She relationship before their marriage. The mystery of the connection between Bertie and Lane is the key to this film, an observation into the physical and chemical connection between people and the messy emotions that get in the way. The acting is pitch perfect, and Idella Johnson’s singing voice is heaven on earth. Marion Hill envisions many hallways to go down in this three-way consortium.
- 9/6/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Lover Come Back: Hill’s Debut a Refreshing Portrait of Intimacy and Attraction
Three may not actually be a crowd, but it certainly heightens complications in the refreshingly welcome debut from Marion Hill, Ma Belle, My Beauty. Straddling continents, cultures and conceptions of what a successful relationship is supposed to look like, it’s perhaps the most playful but sobering portrait of polyamory to be examined in English language cinema and at the most interesting starting point of such a union – after it’s ended and the dust has settled. But something’s been left unsaid, at least as suggested in this tantalizing examination of a thrupple who might have actually been higher functioning when all three members were present.…...
Three may not actually be a crowd, but it certainly heightens complications in the refreshingly welcome debut from Marion Hill, Ma Belle, My Beauty. Straddling continents, cultures and conceptions of what a successful relationship is supposed to look like, it’s perhaps the most playful but sobering portrait of polyamory to be examined in English language cinema and at the most interesting starting point of such a union – after it’s ended and the dust has settled. But something’s been left unsaid, at least as suggested in this tantalizing examination of a thrupple who might have actually been higher functioning when all three members were present.…...
- 8/27/2021
- by Nicholas Bell
- IONCINEMA.com
One of the most important LGBTQ+ film festivals on the annual calendar, OutFest Los Angeles persisted through the pandemic and returns this year with another great crop of films to grab your attention. We’ve come a long way from the days of tragic romances and coming out stories, with this year’s films taking us into much more complex and rewarding territory. These are five of the best.
Ma Belle, Ma Beauty Photo: Lauren Guiteras
Ma Belle, My Beauty
Bertie, Fred and Lane were in a polyamorous relationship, back in New Orleans. Now Bertie and Fred have married and moved to rural France, where Bertie has sunk into depression. Worried – about her, and about the fate of the tour they’re supposed to be embarking on as musicians – Fred invites Lane to stay, imagining that it will cheer her up. Marion Hill’s delicately observed film is a study...
Ma Belle, Ma Beauty Photo: Lauren Guiteras
Ma Belle, My Beauty
Bertie, Fred and Lane were in a polyamorous relationship, back in New Orleans. Now Bertie and Fred have married and moved to rural France, where Bertie has sunk into depression. Worried – about her, and about the fate of the tour they’re supposed to be embarking on as musicians – Fred invites Lane to stay, imagining that it will cheer her up. Marion Hill’s delicately observed film is a study...
- 8/12/2021
- by Jennie Kermode
- eyeforfilm.co.uk
The summer is coming to an end and with it comes a number of films to have on your to-watch list. From some highly-anticipated auteur-driven films to dazzling animations to riveting documentaries to horror stand-outs, there’s a wide-ranging array of selections. Check out our picks to see below.
12. Ma Belle, My Beauty (Marion Hill)
A premiere at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, Marion Hill’s acclaimed drama Ma Belle, My Beauty explores the nuances of a polyamorous relationship. John Fink said in his review, “In some relationships it’s easier to pick up where you left off, even after years of being apart. Others, such as those at the core of Marion Hill’s impressive, nuanced feature film debut Ma Belle, My Beauty—contain more heartbreak and baggage. Screening in Sundance’s Next category, Hill’s picture navigates uncomfortable truths with perspective and lyrical emotional honestly as Lane...
12. Ma Belle, My Beauty (Marion Hill)
A premiere at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, Marion Hill’s acclaimed drama Ma Belle, My Beauty explores the nuances of a polyamorous relationship. John Fink said in his review, “In some relationships it’s easier to pick up where you left off, even after years of being apart. Others, such as those at the core of Marion Hill’s impressive, nuanced feature film debut Ma Belle, My Beauty—contain more heartbreak and baggage. Screening in Sundance’s Next category, Hill’s picture navigates uncomfortable truths with perspective and lyrical emotional honestly as Lane...
- 8/3/2021
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Outfest Los Angeles features two films with "RuPaul's Drag Race" winners BeBe Zahara Benet and Bianca del Rio in its lineup for its 39th Film Festival.
Season 6 winner Bianca del Rio will join the main cast members of "Everybody’s Talking About Jamie," Max Harwood and Lauren Patel, in the festival's opening event. Del Rio plays art teacher Miss Haywood in the feature adaptation of the musical.
Season 1 winner BeBe Zahara Benet will perform live before the premiere of "Being Bebe," which follows the Cameroonian-American immigrant's struggle to embrace being an LGBTQ performer against discriminatory cultural forces.
Named after the Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization Outfest, the 10-day festival will celebrate LGBTQ+ stories and voices in film and television and will return to in-person screenings.
Outfest will also host the 5th Annual Trans and NonBinary Summit on August 21 with a panel featuring established and emerging trans and nonbinary creators, Zackary Drucker and Our Lady J.
Season 6 winner Bianca del Rio will join the main cast members of "Everybody’s Talking About Jamie," Max Harwood and Lauren Patel, in the festival's opening event. Del Rio plays art teacher Miss Haywood in the feature adaptation of the musical.
Season 1 winner BeBe Zahara Benet will perform live before the premiere of "Being Bebe," which follows the Cameroonian-American immigrant's struggle to embrace being an LGBTQ performer against discriminatory cultural forces.
Named after the Los Angeles-based nonprofit organization Outfest, the 10-day festival will celebrate LGBTQ+ stories and voices in film and television and will return to in-person screenings.
Outfest will also host the 5th Annual Trans and NonBinary Summit on August 21 with a panel featuring established and emerging trans and nonbinary creators, Zackary Drucker and Our Lady J.
- 7/26/2021
- by Loree Seitz
- The Wrap
Fantasia opener also sells in UK, German-speaking Europe, Latin America, South Korea.
Montreal-based WaZabi Films has kicked off its Cannes Marché with a raft of sales on Julien Knafo’s zom-com Brain Freeze, led by a US distribution deal with Cinedigm. The film opens the Fantasia International Film Festival next month.
Key territory sales have also been sealed for the UK (Blue Finch), German-speaking Europe (Lighthouse), Latin America (Encripta), and South Korea (Coup Corp).
Barbara Shrier of Palomar produced the film about an exclusive golf club that genetically modifies the grass so members can play golf all year. But when...
Montreal-based WaZabi Films has kicked off its Cannes Marché with a raft of sales on Julien Knafo’s zom-com Brain Freeze, led by a US distribution deal with Cinedigm. The film opens the Fantasia International Film Festival next month.
Key territory sales have also been sealed for the UK (Blue Finch), German-speaking Europe (Lighthouse), Latin America (Encripta), and South Korea (Coup Corp).
Barbara Shrier of Palomar produced the film about an exclusive golf club that genetically modifies the grass so members can play golf all year. But when...
- 7/6/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
A premiere at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year, Marion Hill’s acclaimed drama Ma Belle, My Beauty explores the nuances of a polyamorous relationship. Starring Idella Johnson, Hannah Pepper, Lucien Guignard, and Sivan Noam Shimon, the drama follows three people who were living together in New Orleans and one person in the relationship vanished. Then, two years later they get reacquainted in the south of France. Now set for an August release, the first trailer has landed.
John Fink said in his review, “In some relationships it’s easier to pick up where you left off, even after years of being apart. Others, such as those at the core of Marion Hill’s impressive, nuanced feature film debut Ma Belle, My Beauty—contain more heartbreak and baggage. Screening in Sundance’s Next category, Hill’s picture navigates uncomfortable truths with perspective and lyrical emotional honestly as Lane (Hannah Pepper...
John Fink said in his review, “In some relationships it’s easier to pick up where you left off, even after years of being apart. Others, such as those at the core of Marion Hill’s impressive, nuanced feature film debut Ma Belle, My Beauty—contain more heartbreak and baggage. Screening in Sundance’s Next category, Hill’s picture navigates uncomfortable truths with perspective and lyrical emotional honestly as Lane (Hannah Pepper...
- 6/8/2021
- by Leonard Pearce
- The Film Stage
Exclusive: NewFest has taken the wraps off NewFest Pride, its new virtual summer film series that will kick off June 4-7. The event from the New York-based LGBTQ+ film and media organization aims to kick off Pride month showcasing six feature films along with a short-film program co-presented with Vimeo and LGBTQ-focused panels and special events.
Those events include a virtual live-read of Legally Blonde featuring an all queer and trans cast, NewFest said Thursday. The fundraiser comes as the film starring Reese Witherspoon celebrates its 20th anniversary, on the heels of the success of the all-trans live-read of Brokeback Mountain in October during NewFest’s New York LGBTQ Film Festival. Like before the live read will will be produced in collaboration with #MakeItGay live reads, founded by Gaby Dunn during quarantine to reimagine typically white, straight, cis and male films into ones with diverse casts.
Proceeds will go towards The NewFest Future Fund,...
Those events include a virtual live-read of Legally Blonde featuring an all queer and trans cast, NewFest said Thursday. The fundraiser comes as the film starring Reese Witherspoon celebrates its 20th anniversary, on the heels of the success of the all-trans live-read of Brokeback Mountain in October during NewFest’s New York LGBTQ Film Festival. Like before the live read will will be produced in collaboration with #MakeItGay live reads, founded by Gaby Dunn during quarantine to reimagine typically white, straight, cis and male films into ones with diverse casts.
Proceeds will go towards The NewFest Future Fund,...
- 5/13/2021
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Good Deed Entertainment to release in US in August.
Montreal-based sales company WaZabi Films has bulked up its virtual Cannes sales slate for next month, picking up international rights to Sundance Next audience award winner Ma Belle, My Beauty.
‘Ma Belle, My Beauty’: SXSW Review
Marion Hill’s USA-France drama was also a SXSW selection and tells of old passions and jealousies that are reignited in the south of France between two women who were formerly polyamorous lovers.
Idella Johnson, Hannah Pepper, Lucien Guignard, and Sivan Noam Shimon star. Producers are Ben Matheny, Kelsey Scult, and Hill.
Good Deed Entertainment...
Montreal-based sales company WaZabi Films has bulked up its virtual Cannes sales slate for next month, picking up international rights to Sundance Next audience award winner Ma Belle, My Beauty.
‘Ma Belle, My Beauty’: SXSW Review
Marion Hill’s USA-France drama was also a SXSW selection and tells of old passions and jealousies that are reignited in the south of France between two women who were formerly polyamorous lovers.
Idella Johnson, Hannah Pepper, Lucien Guignard, and Sivan Noam Shimon star. Producers are Ben Matheny, Kelsey Scult, and Hill.
Good Deed Entertainment...
- 5/4/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Good Deed Entertainment to release in US in August.
Montreal-based sales company WaZabi Films has bulked up its virtual Cannes sales slate for next month, picking up international rights to Sundance Next audience award winner Ma Belle, Ma Beauty.
‘Ma Belle, Ma Beauty’: SXSW Review
Marion Hill’s USA-France drama was also a SXSW selection and tells of old passions and jealousies that are reignited in the south of France between two women who were formerly polyamorous lovers.
Idella Johnson, Hannah Pepper, Lucien Guignard, and Sivan Noam Shimon star. Producers are Ben Matheny, Kelsey Scult, and Hill.
Good Deed...
Montreal-based sales company WaZabi Films has bulked up its virtual Cannes sales slate for next month, picking up international rights to Sundance Next audience award winner Ma Belle, Ma Beauty.
‘Ma Belle, Ma Beauty’: SXSW Review
Marion Hill’s USA-France drama was also a SXSW selection and tells of old passions and jealousies that are reignited in the south of France between two women who were formerly polyamorous lovers.
Idella Johnson, Hannah Pepper, Lucien Guignard, and Sivan Noam Shimon star. Producers are Ben Matheny, Kelsey Scult, and Hill.
Good Deed...
- 5/4/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Los Angeles-based Lgbtqia+ organization Outfest is set to empower even more queer storytellers wtih the 2021 Outfest Fusion Qtbipoc Film Festival. The hybrid fest will take place April 16-20.
This year’s fest will include 10 feature films, 41 short films, a One-Minute Movie Contest, two drive-in experiences at Exposition Park, and a dozen workshops and panels which will be open to the public.
Now in its 18th year, Outfest Fusion showcases the work of queer and trans filmmakers of color, providing the audiences and storytellers with the critical visibility that is needed to build careers, opportunities, and empathy for Lgbtqia+ stories.
“Outfest Fusion facilitates an environment where Qtbipoc people are able to learn, teach, showcase their talent, and feel validated, bridging the gap between the industry’s gatekeepers and so many marginalized people who are typically left out of the conversation,” said Outfest Executive Director,...
This year’s fest will include 10 feature films, 41 short films, a One-Minute Movie Contest, two drive-in experiences at Exposition Park, and a dozen workshops and panels which will be open to the public.
Now in its 18th year, Outfest Fusion showcases the work of queer and trans filmmakers of color, providing the audiences and storytellers with the critical visibility that is needed to build careers, opportunities, and empathy for Lgbtqia+ stories.
“Outfest Fusion facilitates an environment where Qtbipoc people are able to learn, teach, showcase their talent, and feel validated, bridging the gap between the industry’s gatekeepers and so many marginalized people who are typically left out of the conversation,” said Outfest Executive Director,...
- 3/31/2021
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Coda, Jockey, Superior among initial wave of deal-making.
While there hasn’t been the usual post-opening weekend torrent of Sundance deals this year, business is getting done and Apple delivered a record $25m buy on feel-good multi-award winnerCODA.
Sundance always has a long tail and deals will trickle in for weeks and months after the event, which officially ends on February 3.
At time of writing buyers were circling Questlove’s documentary Summer Of Soul, Sean Ellis’s werewolf film Eight For Silver, Franz Kanz’s post-shooting massacre drama Mass, and Lyle Mitchell Corbine Jr.’s thriller Wild Indian, among others.
While there hasn’t been the usual post-opening weekend torrent of Sundance deals this year, business is getting done and Apple delivered a record $25m buy on feel-good multi-award winnerCODA.
Sundance always has a long tail and deals will trickle in for weeks and months after the event, which officially ends on February 3.
At time of writing buyers were circling Questlove’s documentary Summer Of Soul, Sean Ellis’s werewolf film Eight For Silver, Franz Kanz’s post-shooting massacre drama Mass, and Lyle Mitchell Corbine Jr.’s thriller Wild Indian, among others.
- 3/29/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
Chicago – After garnering a major honor at the Sundance Film Festival – the Audience Award in the Next category – “Ma Belle, My Beauty” will screen at the virtual/online South by Southwest (SXSW) Festival in yet another opportunity to see the modern and emotional expression of love. Idella Johnson and Hannah Pepper are two/thirds of a past polyamorous relationship.
What happens when singer Bertie (Johnson) can’t sing anymore? Her collaborator husband Fred (Lucien Guignard) calls her ex-lover Lane (Pepper), as they were part of a He-She-She relationship before their marriage. The mystery of the connection between Bertie and Lane is the key to this film, a delve into the physical and chemical connection between people and the messy emotions that get in the way. The acting is pitch perfect, and Idella Johnson’s singing voice is heaven on earth. Writer/director Marion Hill creates many hallways to go down in this three-way consortium.
What happens when singer Bertie (Johnson) can’t sing anymore? Her collaborator husband Fred (Lucien Guignard) calls her ex-lover Lane (Pepper), as they were part of a He-She-She relationship before their marriage. The mystery of the connection between Bertie and Lane is the key to this film, a delve into the physical and chemical connection between people and the messy emotions that get in the way. The acting is pitch perfect, and Idella Johnson’s singing voice is heaven on earth. Writer/director Marion Hill creates many hallways to go down in this three-way consortium.
- 3/18/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Good Deed Entertainment has nabbed North American rights to “Ma Belle, My Beauty,” a queer polyamorous love story that was embraced by critics when it debuted at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
The film, which marks Marion Hill’s directorial feature film debut, won the Audience Award in the Next category at the festival. It will next screen at the South by Southwest Film Festival in the “Festival Favorites” section.
“Ma Belle, My Beauty” unfolds in the south of France, and follows the love story of Lane (Hannah Pepper), Bertie (Idella Johnson) and Fred (Lucien Guignard). In a positive review, Variety‘s Lisa Kennedy commended Hill’s direction and noted the romantic atmosphere that she evoked.
“‘Ma Belle, My Beauty’ is lovely, not least because it was filmed in and around the book-me-a-flight village of Anduze near the Cévennes mountains,” Kennedy wrote. “Hill and cinematographer Lauren Guiteras seize the...
The film, which marks Marion Hill’s directorial feature film debut, won the Audience Award in the Next category at the festival. It will next screen at the South by Southwest Film Festival in the “Festival Favorites” section.
“Ma Belle, My Beauty” unfolds in the south of France, and follows the love story of Lane (Hannah Pepper), Bertie (Idella Johnson) and Fred (Lucien Guignard). In a positive review, Variety‘s Lisa Kennedy commended Hill’s direction and noted the romantic atmosphere that she evoked.
“‘Ma Belle, My Beauty’ is lovely, not least because it was filmed in and around the book-me-a-flight village of Anduze near the Cévennes mountains,” Kennedy wrote. “Hill and cinematographer Lauren Guiteras seize the...
- 2/18/2021
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Chicago – After garnering a major honor at the Sundance Film Festival – the Audience Award in the Next category – “Ma Belle, My Beauty” made an impression with its intimate look at polyamorous (group of three) lovers, particularly the lead actors portraying the two women, Idella Johnson and Hannah Pepper.
What happens when singer Bertie (Johnson) can’t sing anymore? Her collaborator husband Fred (Lucien Guignard) calls her ex-lover Lane (Pepper), as they were part of a He-She-She relationship before their marriage. The mystery of the connection between Bertie and Lane is the key to this film, a delve into the physical and chemical connection between people and the messy emotions that get in the way. The acting is pitch perfect, and Idella Johnson’s singing voice is heaven on earth. Writer/director Marion Hill creates many hallways to go down in this three-way consortium
Idella Johnson (left) and Hannah Pepper of...
What happens when singer Bertie (Johnson) can’t sing anymore? Her collaborator husband Fred (Lucien Guignard) calls her ex-lover Lane (Pepper), as they were part of a He-She-She relationship before their marriage. The mystery of the connection between Bertie and Lane is the key to this film, a delve into the physical and chemical connection between people and the messy emotions that get in the way. The acting is pitch perfect, and Idella Johnson’s singing voice is heaven on earth. Writer/director Marion Hill creates many hallways to go down in this three-way consortium
Idella Johnson (left) and Hannah Pepper of...
- 2/15/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
In some relationships it’s easier to pick up where you left off, even after years of being apart. Others, such as those at the core of Marion Hill’s impressive, nuanced feature film debut Ma Belle, My Beauty—contain more heartbreak and baggage. Screening in Sundance’s Next category, Hill’s picture navigates uncomfortable truths with perspective and lyrical emotional honestly as Lane (Hannah Pepper) re-enters the life of former lover Bertie (Idalla Johnson) at the request of her husband Fred (Lucien Guignard).
New Orleans ex-pat Bertie has moved to the South of France with husband Fred. Both dream of working on their music career together—until he becomes the star of the show, leaving her in the shadows. Having just lost her mother, Bertie spends her days tending to their aging villa and making trips into town where she keeps her distance despite adoration for her husband who has become a local celebrity.
New Orleans ex-pat Bertie has moved to the South of France with husband Fred. Both dream of working on their music career together—until he becomes the star of the show, leaving her in the shadows. Having just lost her mother, Bertie spends her days tending to their aging villa and making trips into town where she keeps her distance despite adoration for her husband who has become a local celebrity.
- 2/4/2021
- by John Fink
- The Film Stage
Ethical non-monogamy doesn’t make for great dramatic conflict. Maybe that’s why alternative relationship structures such as polyamory are so rarely depicted onscreen. Where would we be if scripts couldn’t rely on torrid affairs or public marriage proposals for quotable monologues and heated arguments? If anything goes, what would people fight about?
Turns out, quite a lot. But it’s not guaranteed to be any more compelling than the status quo. Though it boasts a picturesque setting and elegant shooting style, “Ma Belle, My Beauty”
Set on a sun-soaked vineyard in the South of France, “Ma Belle, My Beauty” embraces the arrival of a third person into a marriage, resisting the unconventional set-up as a dramatic flashpoint. The tension stems instead from two women re-hashing an unresolved relationship, and a man playing semi-neutral observer with his own motives. Unfortunately, the film is so intent on normalizing non-monogamy that...
Turns out, quite a lot. But it’s not guaranteed to be any more compelling than the status quo. Though it boasts a picturesque setting and elegant shooting style, “Ma Belle, My Beauty”
Set on a sun-soaked vineyard in the South of France, “Ma Belle, My Beauty” embraces the arrival of a third person into a marriage, resisting the unconventional set-up as a dramatic flashpoint. The tension stems instead from two women re-hashing an unresolved relationship, and a man playing semi-neutral observer with his own motives. Unfortunately, the film is so intent on normalizing non-monogamy that...
- 2/3/2021
- by Jude Dry
- Indiewire
CodaU.S. – DRAMATICGrand Jury PrizeCoda (Siân Heder)Directing PrizeSiân Heder (Coda) Audience Award Coda (Siân Heder) Special Jury Award for Ensemble CastCoda (Siân Heder) Special Jury Award for Best ActorClifton Collins Jr. (Jockey)Waldo Salt Screenwriting AwardAri Katcher and Ryan Welch (On the Count of Three)Summer Of SoulU.S. – DOCUMENTARYGrand Jury Prize Summer Of Soul (Questlove) Directing Prize Natalia Almada (Users) Audience Award Summer Of Soul (Questlove)Special Jury Award for EditingKristina Motwani and Rebecca Adorno (Homeroom)Special Jury Award for Innovation in Non-fiction ExperimentationTheo AnthonySpecial Jury Award for Emerging FilmmakerParker Hill, Isabel Bethencourt (Cusp)HiveWORLD Cinema – DRAMATICGrand Jury Prize Hive (Blerta Basholli) Directing Prize Blerta Basholli (Hive) Audience Award Hive (Blerta Basholli)Special Jury Award for ActingJesmark Scicluna (Luzzu)Special Jury Award for Creative VisionBaz Poonpiriya (One for the Road)Writing With FireWORLD Cinema – DOCUMENTARYGrand Jury Prize Writing With Fire (Rintu Thomas, Sushmit Ghosh)Directing Prize Hogir Hiror...
- 2/3/2021
- MUBI
Chicago – The 2021 Sundance Film Festival will be long remembered as the “virtual” version due to the pandemic, but there are always the real films, and the festival announced their competition honorees on February 2nd, in a virtual ceremony hosted by comedian Patton Oswalt.
After six days, 73 feature films and 50 Short Films, the Grand Jury Prizes were awarded to “Coda” (U.S. Dramatic) … Coda is an acronym for Child of Deaf Adults, and highlights the character of Ruby. “Summer of Soul” (U.S. Documentary) … the “Black Woodstock” of Harlem in the same Summer of 1969. “Flee” (World Cinema Documentary) … a child immigrant grows up to be a respected academic, but still harbors a secret. And “Hive” (World Cinema Dramatic) … a woman has a husband missing in action during the Kosovo war – should she continue to support herself or wait?
The list of all award winners are below.
Grand Jury Prize
Coda
Photo credit: Sundance Film Festival
U.
After six days, 73 feature films and 50 Short Films, the Grand Jury Prizes were awarded to “Coda” (U.S. Dramatic) … Coda is an acronym for Child of Deaf Adults, and highlights the character of Ruby. “Summer of Soul” (U.S. Documentary) … the “Black Woodstock” of Harlem in the same Summer of 1969. “Flee” (World Cinema Documentary) … a child immigrant grows up to be a respected academic, but still harbors a secret. And “Hive” (World Cinema Dramatic) … a woman has a husband missing in action during the Kosovo war – should she continue to support herself or wait?
The list of all award winners are below.
Grand Jury Prize
Coda
Photo credit: Sundance Film Festival
U.
- 2/3/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Ending earlier than usual in their hybrid virtual/physical edition of this year’s festival, Sundance Film Festival have now unveiled their award winners. Swept by Coda, Summer of Soul, and Hive, check out the list below, along with links to reviews, as well as our full coverage here.
Grand Jury Prizes
The U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Documentary was presented to: Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, for Summer Of Soul / U.S.A. — During the same summer as Woodstock, over 300,000 people attended the Harlem Cultural Festival, celebrating African American music and culture, and promoting Black pride and unity. The footage from the festival sat in a basement, unseen for over 50 years, keeping this incredible event in America’s history lost – until now.
The U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic was presented to: Siân Heder, for Coda / U.S.A. — As a Coda – Child of Deaf Adults – Ruby is the only hearing person in her deaf family.
Grand Jury Prizes
The U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Documentary was presented to: Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson, for Summer Of Soul / U.S.A. — During the same summer as Woodstock, over 300,000 people attended the Harlem Cultural Festival, celebrating African American music and culture, and promoting Black pride and unity. The footage from the festival sat in a basement, unseen for over 50 years, keeping this incredible event in America’s history lost – until now.
The U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic was presented to: Siân Heder, for Coda / U.S.A. — As a Coda – Child of Deaf Adults – Ruby is the only hearing person in her deaf family.
- 2/3/2021
- by Jordan Raup
- The Film Stage
Siân Heder’s US feel-good family tale Coda won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize.
Coda and Hive were the big winners at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival virtual awards ceremony on Tuesday night (February 2), taking home four and three prizes, respectively.
Siân Heder’s US feel-good family tale Coda – set up after producer Patrick Wachsberger took remake rights to French film La Famille Bélier with him when he left Lionsgate – won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic, Audience Award: U.S. Dramatic, U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast, and Directing Award: U.S. Dramatic prizes.
The...
Coda and Hive were the big winners at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival virtual awards ceremony on Tuesday night (February 2), taking home four and three prizes, respectively.
Siân Heder’s US feel-good family tale Coda – set up after producer Patrick Wachsberger took remake rights to French film La Famille Bélier with him when he left Lionsgate – won the U.S. Grand Jury Prize: Dramatic, Audience Award: U.S. Dramatic, U.S. Dramatic Special Jury Award for Ensemble Cast, and Directing Award: U.S. Dramatic prizes.
The...
- 2/3/2021
- by Jeremy Kay
- ScreenDaily
The mostly virtual 2021 Sundance Film Festival is coming to a close. The festival announced awards winners Tuesday night, trading an in-person ceremony for one broadcast live and hosted by Patton Oswalt. The biggest winner was Sian Heder’s coming of age drama “Coda,” which earned four U.S. Dramatic Competition awards, including the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award. Other Big winners were “Summer of Soul,” which took home the two top U.S. Documentary awards.
Blerta Basholli’s “Hive” won three awards in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition: the Directing and Audience awards and the Grand Jury Prize. Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh’s “Writing with Fire” earned two World Cinema Documentary awards.
A total of 72 features screened over the last week, along with 50 shorts, four Indie Series, and 14 New Frontier VR/new media projects. Those projects were judged by a jury made up of Zeynep Atakan, Raúl Castillo,...
Blerta Basholli’s “Hive” won three awards in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition: the Directing and Audience awards and the Grand Jury Prize. Rintu Thomas and Sushmit Ghosh’s “Writing with Fire” earned two World Cinema Documentary awards.
A total of 72 features screened over the last week, along with 50 shorts, four Indie Series, and 14 New Frontier VR/new media projects. Those projects were judged by a jury made up of Zeynep Atakan, Raúl Castillo,...
- 2/3/2021
- by Chris Lindahl
- Indiewire
The narrative feature “Coda” and the documentary “Summer of Soul” swept the top categories at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival, winning the Grand Jury Prizes and also taking the audience awards in the U.S. dramatic and documentary competitions.
“Coda,” director Sian Heder’s coming-of-age story in which Emilia Jones plays the only hearing member of a deaf family, also won an award for its ensemble, many of them deaf actors who performed in ASL. Its wins come three days after the film set a record for the largest sale in Sundance history, a $25 million deal with Apple.
“Summer of Soul,” which like “Coda” screened on the festival’s opening night, is a documentary by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson built around long-unseen concert footage from the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a six-weekend event that first-time director Questlove uses as a launching pad to explore race relations and Black culture in that tumultuous time.
“Coda,” director Sian Heder’s coming-of-age story in which Emilia Jones plays the only hearing member of a deaf family, also won an award for its ensemble, many of them deaf actors who performed in ASL. Its wins come three days after the film set a record for the largest sale in Sundance history, a $25 million deal with Apple.
“Summer of Soul,” which like “Coda” screened on the festival’s opening night, is a documentary by Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson built around long-unseen concert footage from the 1969 Harlem Cultural Festival, a six-weekend event that first-time director Questlove uses as a launching pad to explore race relations and Black culture in that tumultuous time.
- 2/3/2021
- by Steve Pond
- The Wrap
The 2021 Sundance Film Festival awards went off at a very fast clip tonight, in an hour’s time. Host Patton Oswalt — or as he billed himself, “Discount Giamatti” — kept the jokes flowing.
Siân Heder’s Coda, which we first told you was swooped up by Apple with a rich $25 million bid, came up big. It won both the U.S. Grand Jury Prize, U.S. Dramatic Audience Award and a Special Jury Ensemble Cast award too. Heder also won Best Director in the U.S. Dramatic section. The movie follows a girl named Ruby. As the only hearing person in an otherwise deaf family, she is divided about staying with them as their fishing business is threatened.
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s Summer of Soul took the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award for Documentary.
Blerta Basholli’s Hive, about a woman in Kosovo who fights against a patriarchal society and whose husband is missing,...
Siân Heder’s Coda, which we first told you was swooped up by Apple with a rich $25 million bid, came up big. It won both the U.S. Grand Jury Prize, U.S. Dramatic Audience Award and a Special Jury Ensemble Cast award too. Heder also won Best Director in the U.S. Dramatic section. The movie follows a girl named Ruby. As the only hearing person in an otherwise deaf family, she is divided about staying with them as their fishing business is threatened.
Ahmir “Questlove” Thompson’s Summer of Soul took the Grand Jury Prize and Audience Award for Documentary.
Blerta Basholli’s Hive, about a woman in Kosovo who fights against a patriarchal society and whose husband is missing,...
- 2/3/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
When Lane arrives at a train station in southern France in “Ma Belle, My Beauty,” she’s greeted by Fred. Clad in the casual uniform of late summer — shorts, sandals, a breezy cotton shirt — he gives her a little smile. Lane, on the other hand, looks from the start like something is weighing on her, and it’s not just her oversized backpack. “Do you think she’ll want to see me?” she asks, with a wary note and pensive brow. Turns out Fred is springing Lane on his wife in hopes of rekindling their threesome, not so much for himself as for wife Bertie.
While its polyamorous triangle might sound edgy to some, first-time feature director Marion Hill’s romantic drama — which had its world premiere at the Sundance film festival — was in line with other 2021 Sundance selections that depict underrepresented characters and their experiences by way of fairly traditional,...
While its polyamorous triangle might sound edgy to some, first-time feature director Marion Hill’s romantic drama — which had its world premiere at the Sundance film festival — was in line with other 2021 Sundance selections that depict underrepresented characters and their experiences by way of fairly traditional,...
- 2/2/2021
- by Lisa Kennedy
- Variety Film + TV
Marion Hill tackles uncharted territory with her polyamorous drama Ma Belle, My Beauty. After moving to rural France, Bertie (Idella Johnson) runs into her ex Lane (Hannah Pepper-Cunningham) who she was previously in a three person relationship with alongside Bertie’s husband Fred (Lucien Guignard). Hill, also the editor of the film, reveals the personal journey that went into editing the film. Filmmaker: How and why did you wind up being the editor of your film? What were the factors and attributes that led to your being hired for this job? Hill: I am also the writer, director and one of three producers […]
The post "It Was Just Me and the Characters in a Vacuum": Editor Marion Hill on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post "It Was Just Me and the Characters in a Vacuum": Editor Marion Hill on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 2/2/2021
- by Austin Jones
- Filmmaker Magazine - Blog
Marion Hill tackles uncharted territory with her polyamorous drama Ma Belle, My Beauty. After moving to rural France, Bertie (Idella Johnson) runs into her ex Lane (Hannah Pepper-Cunningham) who she was previously in a three person relationship with alongside Bertie’s husband Fred (Lucien Guignard). Hill, also the editor of the film, reveals the personal journey that went into editing the film. Filmmaker: How and why did you wind up being the editor of your film? What were the factors and attributes that led to your being hired for this job? Hill: I am also the writer, director and one of three producers […]
The post "It Was Just Me and the Characters in a Vacuum": Editor Marion Hill on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post "It Was Just Me and the Characters in a Vacuum": Editor Marion Hill on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 2/2/2021
- by Austin Jones
- Filmmaker Magazine-Director Interviews
Chicago – The 2021 Sundance Film Festival is now in Day Four, offering over 20 premieres on January 31st. This year’s festival is virtual and online, meaning anyone with a ticket or a pass can indulge in the film offerings throughout the festival, which runs until February 3rd.
For the premieres of 2021, the cutting edge potential influencer films and all the ancillary new voice filmmakers, the Sundance Film Festival is the one that begins every film year with the movies that ultimately become the talk of the town and the gatherer of year end awards. Your ticket to the festival is your chance to see these films and filmmakers before the general public.
On the Count of Three
Photo credit: Sundance Film Festival
The Sundance Film Festival is an annual event organized by the Sundance Institute – an organization founded by actor Robert Redford in 1980 – and dedicated to the growth of independent artists.
For the premieres of 2021, the cutting edge potential influencer films and all the ancillary new voice filmmakers, the Sundance Film Festival is the one that begins every film year with the movies that ultimately become the talk of the town and the gatherer of year end awards. Your ticket to the festival is your chance to see these films and filmmakers before the general public.
On the Count of Three
Photo credit: Sundance Film Festival
The Sundance Film Festival is an annual event organized by the Sundance Institute – an organization founded by actor Robert Redford in 1980 – and dedicated to the growth of independent artists.
- 1/31/2021
- by adam@hollywoodchicago.com (Adam Fendelman)
- HollywoodChicago.com
Marion Hill’s “Ma Belle, My Beauty” opens with the kind of aural ecstasy you’d expect from a romantic drama set in the South of France: a lazily looping guitar accompanying a breathy, enchanting vocal. The scene is set – and then it immediately collapses, as the vocalist tells her accompanist, “I hate this song, I’m sorry,” and escapes their rehearsal to take a bath.
Read More: 25 Most Anticipated 2021 Sundance Film Festival Premieres
That opening implosion is a pretty apt encapsulation of Hill’s feature debut, which is filled with picturesque images, rolling landscapes, and shiny surfaces, yet constantly reminds us of the disappointments and unhappiness lurking beneath them.
Continue reading ‘Ma Belle, My Beauty’ Is A Sunny Tale Of Love, Heartache, And Polyamory [Sundance Review] at The Playlist.
Read More: 25 Most Anticipated 2021 Sundance Film Festival Premieres
That opening implosion is a pretty apt encapsulation of Hill’s feature debut, which is filled with picturesque images, rolling landscapes, and shiny surfaces, yet constantly reminds us of the disappointments and unhappiness lurking beneath them.
Continue reading ‘Ma Belle, My Beauty’ Is A Sunny Tale Of Love, Heartache, And Polyamory [Sundance Review] at The Playlist.
- 1/31/2021
- by Jason Bailey
- The Playlist
Marion Hill tackles uncharted territory with her polyamorous drama Ma Belle, My Beauty. After moving to rural France, Bertie (Idella Johnson) runs into her ex Lane (Hannah Pepper-Cunningham) who she was previously in a three person relationship with alongside Bertie’s husband Fred (Lucien Guignard). Dp Lauren Guiteras walks us through how she captured naturalistic sensuality, the beauty of imperfect lighting, and how she grounded Ma Belle, My Beauty in the tangible world. Filmmaker: How and why did you wind up being the cinematographer of your film? What were the factors and attributes that led to your being hired for this job? Guiteras: I had […]
The post "There Is an Appropriate Numbness and Bareness to It": Dp Lauren Guiteras on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post "There Is an Appropriate Numbness and Bareness to It": Dp Lauren Guiteras on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 1/30/2021
- by Filmmaker Staff
- Filmmaker Magazine - Blog
Marion Hill tackles uncharted territory with her polyamorous drama Ma Belle, My Beauty. After moving to rural France, Bertie (Idella Johnson) runs into her ex Lane (Hannah Pepper-Cunningham) who she was previously in a three person relationship with alongside Bertie’s husband Fred (Lucien Guignard). Dp Lauren Guiteras walks us through how she captured naturalistic sensuality, the beauty of imperfect lighting, and how she grounded Ma Belle, My Beauty in the tangible world. Filmmaker: How and why did you wind up being the cinematographer of your film? What were the factors and attributes that led to your being hired for this job? Guiteras: I had […]
The post "There Is an Appropriate Numbness and Bareness to It": Dp Lauren Guiteras on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
The post "There Is an Appropriate Numbness and Bareness to It": Dp Lauren Guiteras on Ma Belle, My Beauty first appeared on Filmmaker Magazine.
- 1/30/2021
- by Filmmaker Staff
- Filmmaker Magazine-Director Interviews
The Sundance Institute the finalists for the second edition of its Momentum Fellowship, a full-year program of customized creative and professional support for writers, directors, and producers from underrepresented communities who work in the fields of documentary, narrative features, and episodic content. The Institute also announced the recipients of its Launch Grant Fund, a new opportunity for emerging filmmakers from underrepresented communities launching their first feature film.
The 2020 Momentum Fellows are Andrew Ahn, Linda Yvette Chávez, Christina Choe, Deborah Esquenazi, Rodney Evans, Penny Lane, Avril Z. Speaks, and Malika Zouhali-Worrall. The 2020 Launch Grant Fund Recipients are Marion Hill, Meryam Joobeur, Anais Blondet Medina and Kase Peña.
The program evolved from the Women at Sundance Fellowship, and takes a more intersectional approach, applying to artists identifying as women, non-binary and/or transgender, artists of color, and artists with disabilities.
As part of the Momentum Fellowship, Sundance Institute has once again partnered...
The 2020 Momentum Fellows are Andrew Ahn, Linda Yvette Chávez, Christina Choe, Deborah Esquenazi, Rodney Evans, Penny Lane, Avril Z. Speaks, and Malika Zouhali-Worrall. The 2020 Launch Grant Fund Recipients are Marion Hill, Meryam Joobeur, Anais Blondet Medina and Kase Peña.
The program evolved from the Women at Sundance Fellowship, and takes a more intersectional approach, applying to artists identifying as women, non-binary and/or transgender, artists of color, and artists with disabilities.
As part of the Momentum Fellowship, Sundance Institute has once again partnered...
- 10/28/2019
- by Tambay Obenson
- Indiewire
In today’s TV News Roundup, the two-part “Timeless” series finale airs on NBC in December.
First Looks
Emmy Award-winning Netflix series “Beat Bugs” returns for a third season on Nov. 9. Even more classic Beatles songs will be reimagined this season, including Let It Be, Day in the Life, Hey Jude, Paperback Writer, Yesterday, Revolution, and Long and Winding Road among others. Vocal performances will feature award-winning musical talents Marion Hill, Yusuf Islam, Noah Kahan, Chloe Kohanski, and Welshy Arms.
In an exclusive first look at this Sunday’s episode of the final season of “The Last Ship,” series leads Eric Dane, Bridget Regan and Marissa Neitling are negotiating a hostage situation. “The Last Ship” airs on Sundays at 9 p.m. on TNT.
Dates
NBC has announced the two-part “Timeless” series finale will air on Thursday, Dec. 20 from 8-10 p.m. Fans are promised a thrilling ride through the past,...
First Looks
Emmy Award-winning Netflix series “Beat Bugs” returns for a third season on Nov. 9. Even more classic Beatles songs will be reimagined this season, including Let It Be, Day in the Life, Hey Jude, Paperback Writer, Yesterday, Revolution, and Long and Winding Road among others. Vocal performances will feature award-winning musical talents Marion Hill, Yusuf Islam, Noah Kahan, Chloe Kohanski, and Welshy Arms.
In an exclusive first look at this Sunday’s episode of the final season of “The Last Ship,” series leads Eric Dane, Bridget Regan and Marissa Neitling are negotiating a hostage situation. “The Last Ship” airs on Sundays at 9 p.m. on TNT.
Dates
NBC has announced the two-part “Timeless” series finale will air on Thursday, Dec. 20 from 8-10 p.m. Fans are promised a thrilling ride through the past,...
- 10/26/2018
- by Margeaux Sippell
- Variety Film + TV
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