Gone are the days when you would hear the words ‘TV serials’, and automatically think of one-dimensional characters and dodgy storylines often involving at least one miracle resurrection. Yes, sadly the soap opera days are a far, soft focus away from the dynamic TV storytelling we are now used to. The likes of Twin Peaks, 24 and The Wire have all made for a film-like experience on our domestic boxes. But naturally, this hasn’t just happened in the US, and proof of this is the Institut Francais’s  London Paris TV Festival.

Totally Serialized showcases episodes from the best of what the two countries have to offer. For the UK that means Death In Paradise, Misfits (all-nighter) and This is England ‘88 (naturally) plus Q&A with the cast. The French proffer their star-studded Platane (Vincent Cassel and Monica Belluci) and Braquo, amongst others. There will also be industry talks about how to write for TV and Q&A sessions following the screenings. The event promises to be a real first, dedicated to a newly revamped genre that often looks like and surpasses its film counterparts. And if that doesn’t sway you, then get yourself down there in the name of EU relations. Your countries need you! (Words: Laura Thornley)

The London Paris TV Festival takes place January 19-22.  Click here for more info.

Original Article

11:00 am  •  17 January 2012  •  2 notes

Comics have always been the number one reading material of choice amongst the fantasy fanatic. A combination of admirable pop-artistry, adventure and intrigue - occasional soft porn -  and sci-fi has made for an exhilarating adventure into the world of the imagination. And this, coupled with ingenious illustration, makes fans glad the word/picture ratio is generously weighted towards the latter.

So The Comics Passion festival comes none too soon as a celebration of the genre. Organised by the Institut Francais in association with Comica Festival, the event brings together artists from France, America, Britain and Belgium to share and discuss their unique practice. In a weekend whirl-wind of colour, paper and pens, festival punters will be given the chance to witness talks by artists including Dave Gibbons (Watchmen), Jean-Claude Mézières (Valérian and Laureline), China Miéville (Kraken), Audrey Niffenegger (The Time Traveler’s Wife), and try out their illustration skills in a drawing session with Bastien Vivès (The Taste of Chlorine) and Benoît Sokal (Canardo).

Headlining events also include a screening of Barbarella, the inspirational 60’s cult-classic starring Jane Fonda, and of course there’s a fancy-dress disco, where festival goers will get the chance to strut their cosmic stuff dressed as their favourite comic book hero.

So I imagine the serious graphic novel nuts will be suited to the nines - but  if you simply fancy something else to tickle your fantasy taste buds (and no costume required), the overall programme should be nothing less than fun.  (Words: Sian Goldby) 

[stextbox id=”custom”]The Festival runs 7-9th October and for more info visit the Institut Francais website[/stextbox]

Original Article

10:00 am  •  6 October 2011  •  1 note