Hollywood is Terrifying in David Cronenberg’s “Maps to the Stars”

You can also read this review (and other writings) at my column for 'The Whit' here

David Cronenberg isn’t a director known for complying with any sort of “norms” when it comes to making films; as a filmmaker, he has been referred to as, “the most audacious and challenging narrative director in the English-speaking world.” So it comes as no surprise then, that the director’s latest is a (very) black comedy-satire about the poisonous Hollywood lifestyle. The only surprise about the project, is that it’s come so late in Cronenberg’s career. 

Some Takeaways From TIFF & Telluride

Both the Telluride and Toronto Film Festivals have become feverishly important events in the Oscar race, especially in recent years. Though some winners peak early in the year (for example, 2011's Best Picture winner, "The Artist" premiered at the Cannes Film Festival), more and more often it seems that Telluride and (especially Toronto) are 2 of the biggest places to build buzz.

It should come as no surprise then, that in the near aftermath of these 2 festivals, several contenders have built enormous amount of buzz, buzz that should very well carry them over the finish line.

Though the People's Choice Award (Toronto Film Festival's highest honor) has yet to be announced, here are some things we've learned over the last few days as films have had their premieres: