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justforbooks · 1 year ago

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With his shrewd eyes and his forks of corn-yellow hair, Julian Sands was a natural choice to play the valiant, romantic George Emerson, who snatches a kiss from Lucy Honeychurch (Helena Bonham Carter) in a Tuscan poppy field in A Room With a View (1985). “I wanted him to be real, not a two-dimensional minor screen god,” he said. “I liked him in his lighter, sexier moments, less so when he was brooding.”

Sands, who has died aged 65 while hiking in mountains in California, was dashing in that film, but he could also project a dandyish, effete or sinister quality. He was blessed with a mellifluous voice and a lean, youthful, fine-boned face, even if, as a child, his brothers insisted he resembled a horse. (He agreed.) In James Ivory’s film of EM Forster’s novel, he was pure heart-throb material. His participation in the notorious nude bathing scene was no impediment to the picture’s success.

Prior to that, he had played the journalist Jon Swain in The Killing Fields (1984), Roland Joffé’s drama about the bloody rise of the Khmer Rouge in Cambodia. The picture marked the beginning of his friendship with his co-star John Malkovich. “I’d been cautioned by Roland to keep my distance from John because he was an unstable character,” Sands recalled. “And John had been told by Roland to stay away from me, because I was a refined, sensible person who didn’t want to be distracted. In fact, we bonded instantly.”

Malkovich directed Sands in a one-man show in which he read Harold Pinter’s poetry. First staged in 2011, the production had its origins in an occasion six years earlier when Pinter, suffering from oesophageal cancer, had asked Sands to read in his stead at a benefit event in St Stephen Walbrook church in the City of London. The writer “sat in the front row with his stone basilisk stare”, Sands recalled.

Not all his work was so highfalutin, and a good deal of it fell into the category of boisterous, campy fun. In Ken Russell’s Gothic (1986), he played the poet Shelley, who indulges in sex, drugs and séances with Lord Byron (Gabriel Byrne) and the future Mary Shelley (Natasha Richardson), and is prone to recite verse naked in thunderstorms.

In a similar vein but far less deranged was Impromptu (1991), which brought together other notable 19th-century figures including George Sand (Judy Davis) and Frederic Chopin (Hugh Grant). Sands, who played Franz Liszt, described it as “Carry On Composer”.

Born in Otley, West Yorkshire, he was raised in Leeds and Gargrave, near Skipton; he later described his childhood as “part conservative and part Huckleberry Finn”. His mother, Brenda, was a Tory councillor and leading light of the local amateur dramatic society, while his father, William, who left when Julian was three, was a soil analyst. Julian made his acting debut in a local pantomime at the age of eight.

At 13, he won a scholarship to Lord Wandsworth college, Hampshire. He moved to London to study at Central School of Speech and Drama, and while there became friends with Derek Jarman. He played the Devil in an extended promotional video that Jarman directed in 1979 for Marianne Faithfull’s album Broken English. The role had been intended for David Bowie, who dropped out at the eleventh hour. “You’re devilish,” Jarman told Sands. “You can play it.”

The actor’s first film appearance came in an adaptation of Peter Nichols’s stage comedy Privates on Parade (1983), starring John Cleese and Denis Quilley, from which his one line of dialogue was cut. There was more rotten luck when he won the lead in a new Tarzan movie, only for the financing to fall through. It was eventually filmed as Greystoke: The Legend of Tarzan, Lord of the Apes (1984), with Christopher Lambert donning the hallowed loin-cloth.

On television, he starred with Anthony Hopkins in the miniseries A Married Man (1983). In Oxford Blues (1984), he was a rower butting heads with a Las Vegas parking attendant (Rob Lowe) who has tricked his way into a place at Oriel College. He was in The Doctor and the Devils (1985), inspired by the Burke and Hare case. “I had a roll in the hay with Twiggy which took about 15 takes,” he said.

Following A Room With a View, he agreed to play the lead in Ivory’s next Forster adaptation, Maurice (1987), before abruptly dropping out and fleeing to the US. In the process, he left behind his wife, the journalist Sarah Sands (nee Harvey), who described him as “restless” and “dramatic”, and their son, Henry. “I’m not the first person to create stability and security and then dismantle it even more effectively than I created it,” the actor said.

Once in America he took on an array of film parts. In Warlock (1989), he played the son of Satan, wreaking havoc in modern-day Los Angeles. Investing this pantomime villain with lip-smacking brio, he was likened by the Washington Post to a “hell-bent Peter Pan” and nominated for best actor in the Fangoria Chainsaw awards. He reprised the role in Warlock: The Armageddon (1993).

As an entomologist in Arachnophobia (1990), he was called upon to have as many as a hundred spiders crawling all over his face. Alternating these mainstream projects with arthouse ones, he played a diplomat in pre-war Poland in Krzysztof Zanussi’s Wherever You Are … (1988) and a monk in Night Sun (1990), the Taviani brothers’ adaptation of Tolstoy’s short story Father Sergius.

For the Canadian horror director David Cronenberg, he starred in the warped and witty Naked Lunch (1991), which disproved those who had declared William S Burroughs’s original novel unfilmable. Just as outré but less accomplished was Boxing Helena (1993), directed by Jennifer Lynch, daughter of David. Sands played a surgeon who keeps a woman captive by making her a quadruple amputee.

After starring as a young classics teacher in his friend Mike Figgis’s film of Terence Rattigan’s The Browning Version (1994), Sands worked a further six times with that director, appearing in his movies even when he was an unorthodox choice for the job in hand. One example was the part of a menacing Latvian pimp in Leaving Las Vegas (1996).

Later roles include a mysteriously unblemished Phantom in Dario Argento’s version of The Phantom of the Opera (1998), Louis XIV (whom Sands described as “the first supermodel”) in Joffé’s Vatel (2000), a crime kingpin named Snakehead in the Jackie Chan vehicle The Medallion (2003), a computer security wizard in the comic caper Ocean’s Thirteen (2007), a younger version of the businessman played by Christopher Plummer in David Fincher’s take on The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo (2011) and a sadistic paedophile in the gruelling wartime odyssey The Painted Bird (2019).

On television, he was a Russian entrepreneur in the fifth season of 24 (2006) and the hero’s father, Jor-El, in two episodes of the Superman spin-off Smallville (2009). For the BBC, he played two very different actors in factually based one-off specials: first Laurence Olivier in Kenneth Tynan: In Praise of Hardcore (2005), then John Le Mesurier in We’re Doomed! The Dad’s Army Story (2015).

His recent work includes Benediction, Terence Davies’s haunting study of Siegfried Sassoon, and the thriller The Survivalist (both 2021), which found him back in the company of Malkovich. One of several titles still awaiting release is the drama Double Soul (2023) starring F Murray Abraham and Paz Vega.

Sands never stopped wandering, walking, running and climbing. “I am on a perpetual Grand Tour,” he said in 2000. Asked in 2018 about his eclectic career, he explained: “I was looking for something exotic, things that took me out of myself. I think I found myself a little boring.”

He was reported missing while out in the San Gabriel mountains, north of Los Angeles, in mid-January 2023. His remains were found in June.

In 1990 he married Evgenia Citkowitz. She survives him, along with their two daughters, Imogen and Natalya, and his son.

🔔 Julian Richard Morley Sands, actor, born 4 January 1958; died circa 13 January 2023

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botogon · 11 hours ago

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Exploring the Rich Heritage and Growing Popularity of Khmer Movies

Introduction

A Glimpse into the History of Khmer Cinema

The history of Khmer cinema stretches back to the mid-20th century, during which it experienced a flourishing period known as its golden age. Between the 1950s and 1970s, the Cambodian film industry produced hundreds of movies, marked by strong storytelling and distinctive artistic flair.

The Golden Age (1950s–1970s)

This era was marked by a surge of creativity. Films like “Puthisen Neang Kongrey” and “Sovannahong” were household names, celebrated for their intricate plots and musical scores that resonated deeply with audiences. This period was spearheaded by influential figures such as King Norodom Sihanouk, who was not only a king but also an avid filmmaker.

Impact of the Khmer Rouge

The golden era came to an abrupt halt during the reign of the Khmer Rouge (1975–1979). This brutal regime sought to erase Cambodia's cultural identity, leading to the decimation of the film industry. Film reels were destroyed, and many artists and filmmakers faced persecution or death, creating a void that would take decades to fill.

Resurgence of Cambodian Films Post-1990s

The end of the Khmer Rouge era allowed for the slow rebuilding of the film industry. In the 1990s and 2000s, directors began re-exploring narratives of loss, hope, and cultural pride, setting the stage for a new generation of Khmer cinema.

New Themes and Modern Storytelling

Post-war films often reflected the pain and resilience of the Cambodian people. Movies like “The Last Reel” captured the struggle of reclaiming lost heritage while new genres emerged, including romantic comedies and supernatural tales that appealed to younger audiences.

Key Genres in Khmer Movies

Cambodian cinema offers a rich variety of genres. The traditional golden age favored dramas and mythological tales, while today’s films are more diverse.

Popular Genres in the Modern Era

Action and Adventure: High-energy films featuring local heroes.

Romance: Heartfelt stories that explore love within the context of Cambodian culture.

Horror: Spooky tales steeped in local folklore, reflecting the nation's fascination with spirits and legends.

Notable Khmer Movies and Their Impact

Several films stand out as milestones in the industry’s history and revival.

Golden Age Classics

“Puthisen Neang Kongrey”: A magical tale rooted in folklore, showcasing the thematic richness of early Khmer storytelling.

“Sovannahong”: Celebrated for its grand visuals and enchanting narrative.

Modern Hits

“The Last Reel”: A story of discovery and legacy, showcasing the enduring spirit of Cambodian film.

“Jailbreak”: A popular action movie that broke into international markets, highlighting the potential of local filmmaking.

Renowned Directors and Producers of Khmer Cinema

Key contributors to both the early and current eras have left indelible marks on Cambodian film.

Pioneers of the Golden Age

Directors like King Norodom Sihanouk and Ly Bun Yim were pivotal in shaping early Cambodian cinema. Their dedication laid the groundwork for the industry’s initial success.

Contemporary Visionaries

Today, filmmakers like Kulikar Sotho and Rithy Panh are known for their poignant narratives that bridge history and modernity. The rise of female directors is also notable, marking a shift toward inclusivity and diverse perspectives.

Challenges Faced by the Cambodian Film Industry

The path to growth for Khmer cinema is not without obstacles.

Economic and Resource Constraints

The industry continues to face financial hurdles, limiting the scale and production quality of films. Budgets are often small, which makes competing with larger film markets difficult.

The Role of Technology and Digital Platforms

The digital era has introduced new avenues for Khmer films.

Streaming Services

Platforms like Netflix and YouTube have provided Cambodian movies with a global stage, making them accessible to audiences who might never have encountered them otherwise.

Conclusion

The journey of Khmer Movies is a testament to Cambodia's resilience and creative spirit. While challenges persist, the progress made in recent decades suggests a bright future, one where Khmer films can share the nation’s unique stories with the world.

FAQs

What are some must-watch Khmer movies?Iconic films include “Puthisen Neang Kongrey” and modern hits like “The Last Reel.”

Who are the leading directors in Khmer cinema today?Directors like Rithy Panh and Kulikar Sotho are at the forefront of contemporary Cambodian filmmaking.

How did the Khmer Rouge affect the film industry in Cambodia?The Khmer Rouge regime decimated the film industry, leading to significant cultural and artistic losses.

Why is folklore important in Khmer movies?Folklore connects movies to the deep-rooted beliefs and traditions of Cambodia, enriching storytelling.

How can international viewers access Khmer films?Streaming platforms like Netflix and YouTube offer an array of Khmer movies.

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neverbetterblog · 1 year ago

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Discover Siem Reap: 5 Things to Do for an Unforgettable Experience

Siem Reap, a city steeped in rich history and cultural heritage, beckons travelers with its awe-inspiring temples, vibrant markets, and captivating landscapes. As a gateway to the ancient wonders of Angkor Wat, Siem Reap offers a myriad of experiences beyond its archaeological treasures. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culinary adventurer, or a nature lover, Siem Reap has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the top 5 things to do in Siem Reap, where each corner reveals a new facet of its timeless allure.

5 Things to do in Siem Reap you must try!

1.Explore the Old Market

Embark on a cultural journey at the Old Market, also known as Phsar Chas, in the heart of Siem Reap. This bustling market, a focal point of activity from sunrise to sunset, showcases a diverse array of locally crafted treasures, exquisite fabrics, and fresh produce. Beyond its role as a marketplace, the Old Market provides a unique opportunity to engage with the friendly locals and gain insights into their daily lives. Indulge your palate in the culinary delights of street food, savoring iconic dishes like fish amok and refreshing sugar cane juice. For the adventurous foodie, daringly explore exotic fruits you may have never encountered before—a culinary adventure that promises to be both intriguing and rewarding.

2.Phare Cambodian Circus

For a unique and captivating experience in Siem Reap, consider attending the Phare Cambodian Circus—an enchanting evening activity that adds a touch of creativity to your temple-hopping adventures. The one-hour performance seamlessly blends traditional and modern elements, featuring mesmerizing theatre, acrobatics, live music, and comedy. More than just a circus, Phare is a cultural and social enterprise that has evolved into one of Cambodia's significant community development initiatives since its establishment in 2013. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of this exceptional show, providing entertainment while contributing to the local community's growth and development.

3.Take times at Siem Reap River

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Siem Reap River, especially during the early evening, to discover the enchanting charm that the riverside has to offer. Among the notable Siem Reap attractions is the Made in Cambodia Market, situated along the riverbank and open daily from 12:00 to 18:00. This market stands out for its commitment to making a positive impact, providing a platform for local Cambodian craftsmen to showcase and sell their arts and crafts. Unlike the bustling central Siem Reap night markets, the Made in Cambodia Market offers a more relaxed ambiance with a scattering of bars and street food vendors.

This market serves a dual purpose, not only offering visitors a unique shopping experience but also contributing to the local economy by creating job opportunities for villagers engaged in crafting handmade items. Support the community and indulge in the authentic creations at this riverside market.

4.Enjoy Cambodian cooking classes

Immerse yourself in the savory world of Khmer cuisine through captivating cooking classes, a must-experience attraction in Siem Reap. With its rich diversity and delectable flavors, Asian food, and particularly Khmer cuisine, holds a special place in culinary exploration. Enroll in these popular cooking classes to embark on a gastronomic journey guided by local chefs. Discover the art of preparing beloved Khmer dishes, gaining insights into traditional recipes and culinary techniques. Armed with newfound skills, you'll have the opportunity to recreate these flavorful dishes at home, impressing your family and friends with the tastes of Cambodia.

5.Discover the Angkor Wat

Embark on a journey through time and marvel at the architectural masterpiece of Angkor Wat, the crowning jewel of Siem Reap attractions. Designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this ancient temple complex, built in the 12th century by Khmer King Suryavarman II, is a testament to the grandeur of Khmer architecture. For history enthusiasts, the intricately carved walls tell tales of a bygone era, allowing you to immerse yourself in the living history of Cambodia. To enhance your experience, we recommend an early morning visit, arriving before sunrise to witness the mesmerizing moment when the sun ascends over the iconic spires of Angkor Wat, creating a breathtaking scene that will undoubtedly leave you awestruck.

In conclusion, Siem Reap stands as a multifaceted gem, offering an array of experiences that seamlessly blend tradition and modernity. Whether you're captivated by the bustling Old Market, enchanted by the cultural performances at the Phare Cambodian Circus, or marveling at the ancient grandeur of Angkor Wat, the city invites you on a journey of discovery.

To elevate your Siem Reap experience, consider the indulgence of Park Hyatt Siem Reap, a luxurious retreat nestled in the heart of the city. After a day of exploration, unwind in the opulent comfort of the hotel, where Khmer-inspired aesthetics meet world-class hospitality, providing a perfect sanctuary to reflect on the rich tapestry of Siem Reap's offerings. Park Hyatt Siem Reap seamlessly complements the city's allure, ensuring your stay is as remarkable as the adventures that await outside its doors.

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takletv168-blog · 6 years ago

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knowledgepronto · 5 years ago

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