DAY TEN  November 12, 2005
"Times Talks" Dissect War Films Old and New, Tired and True
by Brent Simon
"War/What is it good for? Absolutely nothing!" goes the call and response of the funky, familiar protest tune of the same name. At AFI FEST 2005 at least, though, the subject is rich grist for the mill, courtesy of a special series of "Times Talks" events on Saturday, November 12, that features film clips, Q&As and panel discussions between some of today's leading film journalists and emerging and established big screen talent.
Each November, The New York Times Magazine takes an in-depth look at the film industry and the state of cinema with its special "Hollywood Issue." This year, its issue focuses on the re-emergence of that perennial Hollywood favorite--the war film--and comes to life for AFI FEST 2005 attendees with three paneled discussions, all held in ArcLight Theatre 10.
At 11:30 a.m., New York Times critics A.O. Scott and Manohla Dargis give an overview of war films both old and new with "Hollywood & War," interspersing clips with a lively mix of opinion and debate that touches on movies from the classic APOCALYPSE NOW to the just released JARHEAD. At 2:00 p.m., New York Times Magazine editor Gerald Marzorati moderates a panel discussion on the war documentary genre with directors Eugene Jarecki (WHY WE FIGHT), Michael Tucker (GUNNER PALACE), Garrett Scott (OPERATION DREAMLAND) and Stephen Marshall (BATTLEGROUND), each of whom has examined America's current situation in Iraq. The "Times Talks" series concludes at 4:30 p.m., with New York Times Magazine editor at large Lynn Hirschberg interviewing celebrated actor and filmmaker George Clooney, star of this fall's SYRIANA and the director of the recently released GOOD NIGHT, AND GOOD LUCK.
Tickets for each "Times Talks" discussion $25 apiece, but the event is also open free of charge to all Festival badge holders. For other information, visit AFI.com, call 866.234.3378 or visit AFI FEST 2005's walk-up Box Office at the Rooftop Village.
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