The News: Fingers on the Trigger

By S.T. VanAirsdale

Some of today's movie news of note from around New York:

--Tonight is a good one for film events in town: If you're in a sporting mood, CMJ FilmFest is holding its opening-night party at the Chelsea Piers bowling alley; or if you're hungry, the Harlem International Film Festival is gearing up for its own bow with a special dinner uptown. But if you're feeling like the bloodthirsty freak you probably are, head over to the Pioneer Theater, where the venue's annual October orgy of mayhem continues with Ti West's acclaimed splatter flick Trigger Man. Compounding the evening's brilliance (or devastation, pick one) is an impromptu packaging with East Village icon Reverend Jen's Anti-Slam, the 12-year-running, anything-goes open mic celebrating its last night at Mo Pitkin's. It's your last chance to howl at the moon in public without the looming threat of jail time, so you might as well take advantage of it.

--Speaking of events, The Reeler received word late Tuesday that the Beacon Theater is hosting I'm Not There: The Concert on Nov. 7. It's exactly what it sounds like: Calexico, The Roots, Cat Power, J Mascis, John Doe and a crapload of others will take the stage covering their own Bob Dylan faves in advance of Todd Haynes' new film, which is due Nov. 21 at Film Forum. Look for the I'm Not There Hanukkah Special to precede the wide release, and perhaps I'm Not There Rockin' New Year's Eve will supplant poor Dick Clark once and for all.

--Among my partners in crime last weekend in Woodstock was Reeler contributor Eric Kohn, who Monday published his own WFF dispatch over at the New York Press. It's a testament to the diversity of the fest that two writers could have such thoroughly different experiences; moreover, he's got the awards dish.

--IFP announced Tuesday that this year's Gotham Awards will honor Mayor Michael Bloomberg for his "work supporting film production in New York City." Weren't these the same people who only months ago protested the city's proposed permit regulations for independent productions? Oh, they aren't? Never mind. Party on!

Posted at October 17, 2007 9:04 AM