Sony Pictures Classics has bought the North American rights to the drama 'This is My Father' - a collaboration by Paul, Declan and Aidan Quinn. The Filmline international produced feature was written and directed by Paul, cinematography by Declan, stars Aidan, Stephen Rea, James Caan and Jacob Tierney. The film is to be released here in November.
There are several other Irish films due to be released here over the coming months including 'Dancing at Lughnasa' on September 25; 'Divorcing Jack' on October 15th; 'The Last Bus Home in November.
The Toronto International Film Festival which ran from September 10 - 19 saw the premiere of HandMade films' 'Sweety Barrett' which starred Brendan Gleeson.
The Cork Film Festival in early October should feature a number of Irish premieres including 'Still Life' which was developed with the assistance of the Northern Ireland Film Commission, The Arts Council and The Arts Council of Northern Ireland. Still life is a short drama which explores the thoughts, emotions and desires of an old bed-bound woman whose life is limited to one room in her terraced house in Belfast. The film was written and directed by Michael Hewitt and produced by Michael Hewitt through Double Band Films and stars Agnes Bernelle and Conor Grimes.
The Irish Charity Premiere of Disney's 'MULAN' will take place on Thursday October 15 at the National Concert Hall, which will be specially adapted by Buena Vista for the screening. 'MULAN' is the 36th animated feature film from Walt Disney Studios, directed by Tony Bancroft and Barry Cook with the voices of Eddie Murphy, Ming-Na Wen, BD Wong, Harvey Fienstein and features the singing of Danny Osmond and Lea Salonga. It is the story of a girl who disguises herself as a man and joins the Chinese army in the place of her ageing father, teaming up with a dragon to leads her into a series of comic adventures. The event is comprised of three sections: a performance by the critically acclaimed 19 year old Singapore born violinist who's techno-acoustic violin music features in the soundtrack; Premiere screening of 'MULAN'; followed by a themed post premiere party. Proceeds from the premiere will go to 'Aoibhneas' an Irish charity which runs purpose built Family Units for women and children suffering violence and abuse in their homes. Further information and Premiere tickets from: 01 867 0826 (10 a.m. - 4 p.m.)
Galaxie Lounge has been presenting classic movie screenings in the Virgin Multiplex on Parnell street throughout September. The next two screenings are 'Enter the Dragon' on Tuesday 29th and 'Scarface' on Tuesday 6th October. Tickets cost £5 and are available from Cinemania at 7 Eustace St., Temple Bar.
In relation to the Virgin cinema, Richard Branson is expected to float a number of companies, including the Virgin Cinema Group which has 30 cinemas, within the next two years.
Michael McMahon 24/9/98
