''Ed Zwick and Darren Aronofsky honor us by premiering their films at AFI FEST,” said Bob Gazzale, President and CEO of the American Film Institute. ”As alumni of the AFI Conservatory, both men symbolize a perfect fusion of the Institute’s national mandate to educate the next generation of storytellers and to honor the artists and their work.” David Lynch, who serves as the festival’s Guest Artistic Director, is also a graduate of the AFI Conservatory.'
'“AFI is where it began for me, and where I return as often as possible, to teach and to learn,” said Edward Zwick. “I’m honored to open the festival, and to join Darren, David, and so many alumni for whom this marks a kind of coming home.” “As an alumnus of the AFI Conservatory, it’s always a thrill to partake in the wonderful festival AFI puts on,” said Darren Aronofsky. “The fact that we get to show at my favorite theater in the world, the Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, adds to the honor.”'
It's been quite a while since we've seen one of Jake's films at a festival, let alone opening one and this is quite an honour. It can also do nothing but contribute to the Oscar buzz and general excitement surrounding the release of Love and Other Drugs - at least in the US. Beyond those shores there's still not much thought being given to it as yet. Please may that change, oh Fox.
News No 2
Prince of Persia: Sands of Time was a huge international success but in American theatres it did relatively poorly. However, today comes the news that the DVD and Blu-Ray release has completely trounced all of its competition. As the Hollywood Reporter... er... reports 'According to Nielsen VideoScan sales data, "Prince" sold nearly twice as many copies its first week in stores as its nearest competitor, Summit Entertainment's "Letters to Juliet," which debuted at No. 2 on the First Alert sales chart.'
Prince of Persia has topped the DVD, the Blu-ray and the rental charts this week meaning that more than a lot of people are enjoying Jake Gyllenhaal and Dastan in their homes. It's a great thought and something for the critics to notice although many of them probably won't. I think I should make it clear that, accidentally, I did buy two copies.
News No 3
Jake Gyllenhaal got on the NYC subway today.
He was seen going into a subway station and was reported as looking hot despite the accompanying beard. I rather like the sound of Jake making his way about a city just like everybody else and I should point out that we have a very good public transportation system in Oxford - brand new doubledeckers on most routes - that is just waiting for Jake to test it.
You may have noticed that a new poll has appeared on the right of the home page - this is the result of the issue that is dividing Gyllendom to an extent not seen since Hatgate of 2009. At the close of this poll, Jake will be left in no doubt as to what he should do with his ever-increasing facial fuzz.
News today was unexpected and so I must put away my laser pointer, flipchart and white coat until tomorrow. Until then, some more transportation photos.
Includes pictures from IHJ.
