The San Diego Film Foundation , best known for presenting The San Diego International Film
Festival, launches their FOCUS on Impact Film Tour, May 2nd – 4th in San Diego Schools. The
tour reaches out to San Diego students of diverse backgrounds with a goal to educate on social justice
and create empathy for social issues – with a 2017 focus on homelessness. They will present the
documentary Storied Streets – shattering stereotypes about our homeless population. The tour provides
teens with a basic understanding of social justice, a personal connection to homelessness and an
awareness of how they can encourage change and empathy within their own community.
Storied Streets is an acclaimed documentary – by Executive Producer Susan Sarandon, Director Jack
Robbins and Producer Thomas Morgan – that explores homelessness across America by telling the
stories of those who live it every day. The San Diego Film Foundation will offer the documentary at 5
local schools followed by discussions with Giuseppe Pizano, the former homeless youth featured in
Storied Streets , Thomas Morgan, Filmmaker and Producer of the documentary and Sarah Hernholm
President and Founder of WIT, a San Diego based organization that works with teens to empower
them to become social entrepreneurs and leaders.
Executive Producer Susan Sarandon embraces the opportunity to make a difference with educational
outreach in the community. She shared, “Our passion for making documentaries allows us to shine a
light on issues of social justice both here at home and around the globe. But making the film is only
the first step. To have an impact, the film has to be seen. We are so grateful to the San Diego Film
Foundation for their partnership to take Storied Streets into the classrooms where it will make a
difference in the overall understanding of the issue of homelessness and provide students with the
knowledge and compassion to make changes within their own community.”
Tonya Mantooth , Executive and Artistic Director of the San Diego Film Foundation shares
Sarandon’s passion for both film and social justice. “We’ve been working with Susan and Thomas to
make the San Diego Film Foundation’s FOCUS on Impact Educational Series Film Tour a reality for
over two years now. We can’t wait to get into the classroom to share these stories and encourage our
youth to step up and make a difference.”
Understanding and addressing homelessness is an active conversation in San Diego as we navigate our
city’s struggles with addressing homelessness. San Diego’s microcosm falls in line with some
unsettling National Statistics. Most homeless individuals – up to 70%, go undetected across the United
States. According to the National Alliance to End Homelessness, there are as many as 2.8 million
homeless youth in the United States – which equates to 1 out of every 30 children . 34% of the
homeless population in the US is under the age of 24 and the average age teen who becomes homeless
is 14.7 years old. 75% of homeless or runaway youth ultimately drop out of school . These national
statistics are reflected in thousands of individuals – adults and children in San Diego.
Storied Streets personalizes homelessness for students by introducing them to individuals instead of
statistics. Giuseppe Pizano , a former homeless youth who is featured in the film – will also be on site
for discussion with students. Abandoned by his mother at age 15, Giuseppe was prepared to fight for
his education. With no other options, Giuseppe moved to the stadium box at his high school and lived
among the bleachers for five months. Toward the end of his freshman year, a teacher stepped in, as he
was unable to enroll for the upcoming school year without parental help. This teacher registered him
for his sophomore year and connected him with the Nevada Partnership for Homeless Youth.
Giuseppe praises the association to this day for saving his life. Thanks to the support of the Nevada
Partnership, he was able to attend college and became the first in his family to attend university. He
studied biomedicine and nutritional science at Northern Arizona University in Flagstaff. The 22-year
old is willing and eager to create change for others. He believes “every action, no matter how small,
can have a positive effect.”
Filmmaker, Thomas Morgan is eager to speak with San Diego students at the screenings and shared
“The impact of Storied Streets for audiences across the country over the past three years has truly been
remarkable. The opportunity to carry this message with the San Diego Film Foundation into more
schools at a time when the community is truly polarized on this issue is so timely and important. I am
sure that the students will never see the issue the same— and my ultimate hope is that they work
toward and find creative solutions to eradicate homelessness in their community and in this country.”
How Additional San Diego Schools Can Get Involved:
For information on the 2018 tour, schools should contact Cindy Saylor cindy@sdfilmfest.com
How Patrons can Support FOCUS on Impact Film Tour :
To support ongoing education on social justice through film in San Diego through the FOCUS on
Impact Film Tour , patrons should contact Merridee Book at merridee@sdfilmfest.com or donate
online at https://secure.sdiff.com/e/donation/charities
Netflix’s Black and White Spoon is a Korean culinary competition series that seamlessly blends artistry, culture, and high-stakes drama into an unforgettable viewing experience. From its sleek production values to its deeply emotional storytelling, this show offers more than just tantalizing dishes—it serves a heartfelt exploration of culinary passion and perseverance.
The series pits contestants against each other in a dual-themed format where they must create dishes inspired by opposing concepts—light versus dark, sweet versus savory, or tradition versus innovation. This premise challenges the chefs’ creativity while providing viewers with visually stunning plates and fascinating backstories about Korean cuisine and its global influences.
The judges are a mix of culinary experts, celebrity chefs, and cultural critics, each bringing a unique perspective. Their feedback is sharp, insightful, and, at times, surprisingly emotional, further heightening the tension.
What sets Black and White Spoon apart is its emphasis on storytelling through food. Each episode dives deep into Korean culinary heritage, intertwining it with personal anecdotes from the contestants. Dishes are not merely judged on technical precision but also on the emotional resonance they evoke. For instance, a simple kimchi stew becomes a tribute to family ties, while a modern take on bibimbap showcases the fusion of tradition and innovation.
The cinematography deserves special mention. Every shot of sizzling grills, delicately plated meals, and reactions from the judges feels like an art piece. The pacing, however, can sometimes feel uneven. While the personal stories add emotional weight, they occasionally overshadow the cooking itself, leaving food enthusiasts craving more behind-the-scenes action in the kitchen.
Black and White Spoon is an inspiring and visually rich series that celebrates the art of cooking and the complexities of Korean cuisine. Its emotional depth and cultural insight make it a standout in the crowded genre of food competition shows, though slightly better pacing could elevate it further.
This is a must-watch for foodies, fans of Korean culture, and anyone who loves the blend of artistry and competition in culinary storytelling.
Final Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5)
Thanksgiving may not have the sheer volume of movies as Christmas, but it’s no less special when it comes to heartwarming, funny, and even chaotic films that capture the holiday spirit. Here’s a ranked list of the top Thanksgiving movies you should add to your holiday viewing tradition.
Planes, Trains and Automobiles (1987)
Why Watch: The definitive Thanksgiving movie, John Hughes’ comedy about an unlikely duo (Steve Martin and John Candy) trying to make it home for Thanksgiving is equal parts hilarious and heartwarming.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (10/10)
A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving (1973)
Why Watch: This animated classic reminds us of the simple joys of friendship and togetherness, all with Snoopy’s iconic charm. Perfect for family viewing.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (9/10)
The Blind Side (2009)
Why Watch: A feel-good drama about family, generosity, and second chances, this Sandra Bullock-led film captures the spirit of Thanksgiving through its heartwarming true story.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Pieces of April (2003)
Why Watch: A raw and quirky indie film starring Katie Holmes as a black sheep daughter trying to host Thanksgiving for her estranged family. It’s funny, awkward, and touching in equal measure.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (8/10)
Home for the Holidays (1995)
Why Watch: Directed by Jodie Foster, this chaotic comedy-drama starring Holly Hunter captures the ups and downs of a family Thanksgiving in all its messy glory.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Addams Family Values (1993)
Why Watch: The hilarious Thanksgiving play sequence alone earns this gothic comedy a spot on the list. The Addams family’s twisted charm is perfect for holiday laughs.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (7/10)
Dutch (1991)
Why Watch: This underrated road-trip comedy follows Ed O’Neill as a man escorting his girlfriend’s bratty son home for Thanksgiving, delivering laughs and heartfelt moments.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Miracle on 34th Street (1947)
Why Watch: Though more closely associated with Christmas, this classic opens during the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and celebrates holiday magic and kindness.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (6/10)
Scent of a Woman (1992)
Why Watch: Al Pacino’s Oscar-winning performance anchors this drama about loyalty and redemption, set against a backdrop of Thanksgiving break.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Tower Heist (2011)
- Why Watch: A lighthearted heist comedy featuring Eddie Murphy and Ben Stiller, set during the Thanksgiving season. It’s not deep, but it’s a fun, entertaining watch.
- Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/10)
Honorable Mentions
The Ice Storm (1997): A dark Thanksgiving drama for those who prefer serious fare.
Hannah and Her Sisters (1986): Thanksgiving frames this Woody Allen classic about family dynamics.
With this lineup, you’ll have plenty of options to keep your Thanksgiving movie marathon as memorable as the feast itself!
directed by Prashanth Neel, brings a bold and gritty spectacle to the big screen, marking a triumphant return for Prabhas in an action-heavy role. Known for his high-energy, raw style (seen in KGF), Neel continues his signature approach here, blending intense action scenes with grandiose settings reminiscent of epic sagas like Game of Thrones. The film revolves around Deva (Prabhas), a powerful yet calm figure with a complex past, and his involvement in a politically charged power struggle with Prithviraj Sukumaran’s character Varadha. This layered storyline introduces us to the fictitious city of Khansar, where betrayals and power dynamics keep viewers on edge.
Critics generally appreciate Prabhas’s magnetic performance, noting that he captures the larger-than-life heroism he’s celebrated for since Baahubali. His portrayal, paired with intense fight choreography, keeps the audience engaged, particularly during standout sequences that elevate the film’s dramatic intensity. Prithviraj’s character as Deva’s friend adds an intriguing dynamic, though Shruti Haasan’s role feels underused. While fans of action-packed cinema and Prabhas’s iconic style will enjoy the exhilarating visuals and powerful cinematography, some critics feel the plot loses momentum in the second half, with multiple subplots that dilute its emotional depth. The story is intentionally left open-ended, setting the stage for Salaar: Part 2.
Overall, Salaar is an ambitious action film that will satisfy fans of Prabhas and high-octane spectacles. However, those seeking a tight narrative or deep emotional connections might find it lacking. I’d rate it 3.5 out of 5 stars—a solid experience for action enthusiasts, with room for a more focused storyline in its sequel.
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