Movie Natters: August 9, 2007 Archive

So close you can taste it

Posted at 11:00 AM on August 9, 2007 by Euan Kerr

Speaking of the Edinburgh International Film Festival, I have been having a grand time checking out what's being shown there this year. As a former EIFF staff member, during the halcyon summer of 1981, I have a soft spot for the event.

Sadly I am not going to make it this year but that doesn't mean I can't dream.

Opening the event is a local effort "Hallam Foe." Directed by David Mackenzie (who made a splash with "Young Adam" starring Tilda Swinton and Ewan McGregor,) the film stells the story of a young lober, Hallam, who has great talents as a spy. When his love life doesn't go as he hopes he takes to the roofs above Edinburgh to sort out his confusion. It's described as a dark romance, which could go any number of ways. It also has a soundtrack featuring amongst others Franz Ferdinand. I have a feeling this one may make it to the States, although you never know.

Then there's "I'm a Cyborg. but that's OK," the new film from the revenge master Chan-Wook Park ("Old Boy" and "Lady Vengence.") This one is a romantic musical where a young woman's belief that she is a cyborg (she has taken to licking batteries instead of eating) leads to he institutionalization. There she falls in love with a young man who believes he can steal people's souls. Again, I am keen to see what Park does with this material.

There will be several live appearances too including Bob Hoskins, John Waters, Tilda Swinton and Stellan Skarsgard.

I have the schedule in my hand and now will start adding the best to my wish list. It's a list that only seems to grow.