This week, immerse yourself in the vibrant world of cinema with Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s new film, “Freaky Tales,” debuting in theatres on April 4. Set in the lively Oakland of 1987, this energetic film features four interlinked surreal fables that celebrate the city’s spirit and the VHS-dominated genres of its time.
At the recent Bay Area premiere at the Grand Lake Theater, special guests including Too Short, who narrates and appears in the film, created an electrifying atmosphere. The crowd was delighted by appearances from NBA legend “Sleepy” Floyd, while Berkeley native Symba shines as Too Short on screen. Iconic locales like the Grand Lake Theater, 924 Gilman, and the Oakland Coliseum are showcased, paying tribute to the vibrant cultural backdrop.
Jay Ellis and Pedro Pascal drew enthusiastic applause during their introductions, with Pascal sharing his surprise at filming in Oakland, stating, “I feel like Oakland is the main character in the story.” The film tackles hard-hitting issues, including racism and sexism, but ultimately, it promises laughter and a richly entertaining experience for Bay Area audiences.
Next up is the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival, now in its 39th year, focusing on a curated selection of films. The festival runs from March 27 to April 6 across various locations, including the Roxie, Vogue, and Elmwood theatres. Opening with Joachim A. Lang’s biopic, “John Cranko,” the festival will illuminate the life of the late South African dancer and choreographer, revealing the struggles and triumphs he faced.
Additional highlights include “The Traitor,” a gripping wartime narrative, and “Two to One,” a light-hearted comedy about family antics during Germany’s reunification. To see the full schedule and secure tickets, visit the festival’s site.
Lastly, delve into the work of documentarian Frederick Wiseman through his immersive films in a special retrospective at the Roxie. “This Is America: Frederick Wiseman–7 Dispatches” showcases six films with new digital restorations, promising an insightful exploration of everyday realities.
The retrospective kicks off with “Model,” offering a captivating glimpse into 1980s New York fashion. Wiseman’s keen observation invites audiences into the lives of models navigating the industry’s challenges. Other featured films in this retrospective include “Titicut Follies” and “Hospital,” with tickets available for individual screenings or a three-film pass.
This week’s highlights include the upcoming release of Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck’s “Freaky Tales,” set in 1987 Oakland, which captures the city’s vibrant spirit through comedy and social commentary. The Berlin & Beyond Film Festival offers a selection of films, including the biopic “John Cranko” and other notable screenings. Finally, a retrospective of Frederick Wiseman’s documentaries promises insightful explorations into various institutions.
In conclusion, this week’s cinematic journey offers a diverse tapestry of storytelling, ranging from the vibrant, comedic realm of Oakland’s “Freaky Tales” to the poignant biopic “John Cranko” at the Berlin & Beyond Film Festival. Moreover, Frederick Wiseman’s docuseries provides a deep dive into the intricacies of daily life. Each offering encourages viewers to engage with both the local and global narratives that cinema can unfold. Don’t miss these opportunities to experience art in its most dynamic forms.
Original Source: localnewsmatters.org
