The Circuit

After several days in, the fest feels good.  People seem tired of repeating indie film's wretched state and are relaxing into good work. 

"Soul Power" sold international rights to Celluloid Dreams.  A domestic sale is expected shortly.

Audiences are still humming about "35 Rhums." Add a rousing reception Saturday to the Chorus Line docu "Every Little Step."  "The Wrestler's" upcoming screening was the talk of parties.

It was a Sony Pictures Classics' double feature on Saturday as Christophe Barratier's "Paris 36" and Jonathan Demme's "Rachel Getting Married" unspooled back to back.  SPC toppers Michael Barker and Tom Bernard are pushing a stack of 10 films here.


"Paris 36" producer Jacques Perrin, Barker, director Christophe Barratier, actress Nora Arnezeder, actor Gerard Jugnot and actor Clovis Cornillac attend the cocktail reception.


"That's right!  She's in my movie!" boasted Jonathan Demme upon introducing Debra Winger, who joined the cast on stage at the "Rachel Getting Married" Gala.  Piers Handling praised the film: "Demme bathes the film in warmth, humor, and music."  Truly, the film is a dramatic musical.  Entirely set within a wedding weekend filled with musicians, the film let's Demme play again with his favorites like Robyn Hitchcock and Sister Carol East.   Dysfunction and tragedy aside, watching it makes you wish you planned your wedding better.