Feature film "Boulevard" opens in New York
By Lauri Neff
NEW YORK (AP) --Dito Montiel says Robin Williams sometimes goofed around on set while filming "Boulevard," but the director says more often, the late actor spent the time between takes contemplating what his character would do next.
"Sometimes he'd do a show for sure. That's kind of him. Then sometimes he's sitting there really thinking about the character," says Montiel. "He really cared about the characters a lot."
"Boulevard," which opened in New York on Friday, is Williams' last dramatic role to be released following his death last summer.
In the film, which expands to other theaters on July 17, Williams plays a closeted gay man who comes out in his 60's and then leaves his lifelong love, his wife of 40 years, played by Kathy Baker.
Montiel says he was thrilled when he got a call saying Williams wanted to talk to him, but he never dreamed it would be about this indie film.
"I was like, 'Whoa, that's crazy,'" the director says, thinking maybe it was about a new "Mrs. Doubtfire," which was rumored to be up for a sequel.
Montiel says he "loved" working with Williams on "Boulevard" and even though he was an admirer, he was a bit surprised at how well Williams immersed himself in the role.
"He won an Academy Award for being a dramatic actor, so I was not that surprised he could tap into it," the director says. "I was surprised at how well he could, honestly, because you have this pre-conceived notion about a lot of famous people."
Montiel, who admits he still keeps some of the phone messages Williams left him, says it was "incredible" getting to know the actor while they worked on the film and says it was even better to hear Williams say he was pleased with his performance.
"All I kept thinking was, 'Man, I hope he really likes it' and he really liked it," Montiel says. "I miss him. It was really nice to make a movie with him."
“Dune: Part Two” and “House of the Dragon” Win 2 HPA Awards Apiece
Dune: Part Two and House of the Dragon each scored two HPA Awards during a gala ceremony at the Television Academy’s Wolf Theatre in North Hollywood, Calif. on Thursday night (11/7). The HPA Awards honor trailblazing talent in the postproduction industry, celebrating standout achievements in color grading, sound, editing, restoration, and visual effects across theatrical features, commercials, and episodics.
Dune: Part Two topped the Outstanding Color Grading--Live Action Theatrical Feature and the Outstanding Sound--Theatrical Feature categories.
House of the Dragon’s two wins were for “The Red Dragon and the Gold” episode which scored for Outstanding Visual Effects--Live Action Episode or Series Season, and Outstanding Editing--Episode or Non-Theatrical Feature (Over 30 Minutes). In the latter HPA Creative Category, House of the Dragon tied with the “Part Six: Far,l Far Away” episode of Ahsoka.
The HPA’s Judges Award for Creativity and Innovation honored Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour. This recognition celebrates the profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment that defined The Eras Tour, underscoring its exceptional impact on audiences and the industry. The jury issued a statement outlining their choice: “Celebrated as the cultural phenomenon of 2023, Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour set new records in box office sales, tour revenues, and attendance. The tour showcased exceptional artistry and innovation, making a profound impact on both live and filmed entertainment.”
This year, FotoKem was awarded the Charles S. Swartz Award for its role in supporting filmmakers, studios, cinematographers, and artists across diverse film and media landscapes. Also celebrated... Read More