FMQB pro.qb | Artists to Watch
by Many Feingold | Mar 2006
MTVu | Best Film on Campus | Critics Corner | ‘Gone’ Fuses Art and Activism
by Whitney Van Cleave, University of Denver, CO | 11.09.07
In today’s world of glitz and glamour, flashy music videos full of materialism and excess seem right at home. In this sense, “Gone” is a music video apart. It is a daring cinematic achievement that goes beyond looking pretty to make a bold statement about the real and pressing issue of global warming.
Director Andrew David Watson, a graduate of Temple University, masterfully crafted the music video for the song “Gone” by musician/activist Bill Madden. The song addresses the need to stop the harmful progression of global warming before it is too late. Undaunted by undertaking a video for such a loaded song, Watson rises to the challenge with the production of “Gone.”
In the film, Watson creates a futuristic world where industry is king and children are forced to wear gas masks while playing. The video follows one little boy, played by Johnny Pulcinella, on his quest to find a safe place to play. Watson also creates a unique plotline by shifting back and forth between the future environmental crisis, and the world if the effects of global warming are reversed.
Set amongst the industrial ruins surrounding a pollution billowing Inolex chemical factory, the backdrop proves to be the perfect choice. Waston uses quick-cutting shots of the smoke belching factory and abandoned buildings to create a grotesque picture of the world should man completely overpower nature.
Watson’s tight action shots are truly a sight to behold. One shot of the boy riding his bike, face covered by a gasmask, is genuinely haunting. Another especially breathtaking scene shows the boy running through a flowered field totting a shoebox with a dead bird inside.
The film also features a number of close-ups on key elements. These images, like the one of the lifeless bird on the ground, are full of symbolism and beauty. Forcing the viewer to see the deathly effects of pollution, these images are the gripping images that stick with you long after the film is over.
Overall, “Gone” is a remarkable fusion of artistry and activism. The film possesses more depth and passion in its 3 minute run than most full-length films.
Staten Island Advance
By Danielle Rubino | 05.31.07
“The Poet,” a film from Staten Island’s own Jules Nasso, will open the Staten Island Film Festival on Thursday night, June 21, festival officials announced yesterday during a conference at the Music Hall in Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Livingston, where the movie will be screened.
“The Poet” is described as a gripping romance that will touch the hearts of viewers. The film, directed by Damian Lee, portrays the turbulent love story of a rabbi’s daughter and a German soldier in the midst of World War II. They encounter many obstacles and struggles all while trying to survive the war. The lovers are separated by massacres in her village, sending them on a perilous journey to one another.
“Festivals like this build character. It truly is remarkable. It’s an incredible story. My son in the film falls in love, and it will rip your heart out,” said Kim Coates, one of the film’s principals.
“The Poet” stars Daryl Hannah, Roy Scheider, Zeon Lee and Lara Daans, as well as Ms. Coates.
“Film festivals are important to filmmakers. You get a chance to show your film to a non-paying audience. It gives us an idea of the film’s real potential. Having had the opportunity to participate in film festivals around the world, and having won the Sundance Film Festival with ‘Narc,’ was all very exciting. For me, having one of my films launch the Staten Island Film Festival just adds to that excitement,” said Nasso, the film’s executive producer. “This film will show the human side of these men (the German soldiers).”
Nasso has produced films for more than 20 years. His credits include “One-Eyed King,” “Prince of Central Park,” “The Patriot,” “Under Siege 2” and “Marked for Death,” and have grossed millions of dollars.
Nasso also works as CEO of Universal Marine Medical Supply, the largest pharmaceutical distribution company in the world.
Also showing at SIFF is Bill Madden’s critically acclaimed video, “Gone.” It has won numerous international awards and has premiered in over 50 festivals worldwide. The video has one purpose: To communicate to viewers the need to stop global warming.
With lyrics such as “One day we’re gonna wake up to the damage that we’ve done, one day we’re gonna find everything gone,” the singer, songwriter and activist’s message is clear.
“One person alone can’t change the effects of global warming, but what I can do is continue to write about it in my songs and help bring attention to this incredibly important issue so that we can change course while there’s still time” said Madden.
The festival will showcase 114 entries reflective of Islanders’ diversity and interests at eight venues, including Snug Harbor Cultural Center, Wagner College, CSI Center for the Arts, Staten Island Academy, St. Joseph by-the-Sea High School, Richmond County Savings Bank Ballpark at St. George, St. John’s University, Jewish Community Center and the St. George Theatre.
Entry to the opening night reception and film is limited to SuperPass holders only. Passes and tickets can still be purchased at www.ticketweb.com.
The Staten Island Film Festival is presented by the Richmond County Savings Foundation. Sponsors include Northfield Bank, Assemblyman Michael Cusick, the Advance, Borough President James P. Molinaro, Councilman Michael McMahon, Time Warner Cable, Staten Island Board of Realtors, KeySpan, The Staten Island Foundation, Councilman James Oddo, Staten Island Hotel, Verizon, General Growth Properties Ferry Ads, Barios Catering, HBO, Salmon Real Estate, Pace University and Fast Signs.
Danielle Rubino is a news reporter for the Advance. She may be reached at rubino@siadvance.com.