The National Film Board of Canada Mediatheque wraps up its 70th anniversary summer program with the feature docs "Nollywood Babylon" and "Waterlife", a night of short films, animation workshops, day camps and free access to 5,000 NFB titles through digital viewing stations.The NFB Mediatheque is located at 150 John Street in Toronto.
"Nollywood Babylon" will have its Toronto theatrical premiere, August 11, 12 & 13 at 7 pm, with co-director Samir "Discordia" Mallal in attendance for a Q&A, August 11."...Nigeria’s film industry “Nollywood” is the third largest in the world – an unstoppable force that is now bursting beyond the borders of Africa. Unfazed by low budgets, enterprising filmmakers create a brash, inventive and wildly popular form of 'B-movie'. An official selection at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, 'Nollywood Babylon' delivers an electric vision of Lagos, Africa’s leading metropolis, and a revealing look at the powerhouse that is Nigerian cinema..."
A World of Shorts, in partnership with the Canadian Film Centre, offers screenings August 19 at 7 pm.
"...The Mediatheque’s popular monthly short-film program spotlights comedy titles including the hilarious 'Walk the Dog', starring 'Being Erica’s Erin Karpluk as a woman who learns the simple – and simply outrageous – truth about cats and dogs while on a park stroll with her boyfriend.
"Waterlife", screening August 25, 26 & 27 at 7 pm, offers director Kevin McMahon in attendance for a Q&A, August 27.
"...Winner of the 'Hot Docs 2009 Special Jury Prize' for Canadian Feature, this beautifully shot documentary screened in 35mm follows the epic cascade of the Great Lakes from Lake Superior to the Atlantic Ocean, telling the story of the last huge supply of fresh water on Earth. Filled with fascinating characters and stunning imagery, 'Waterlife' is a cinematic poem about the beauty of water and the dangers of taking it for granted. Narrated by Gord Downie, lead vocalist of 'The Tragically Hip' and Waterkeeper Trustee of Lake Ontario. Featuring music by Sam Roberts, Sufjan Stevens, Sigur Rós, Robbie Robertson and Brian Eno..."
Digital viewing stations access over 5,000 NFB docs and animation titles in English and French, including new releases "Capturing Reality: The Art of Documentary", award winners "The Danish Poet" and "Ryan", festival hit "Manufactured Landscapes" and "The Log Driver’s Waltz", "The Sweater" and "The Cat Came Back"...
