Lucid Imaginations, Culinary Delight & Harbor Filled Dreams: The 2010 Miami International Book Fair & Short Film Festival - Feature
The progression of literature and film provides a bonafide texture that revolves within an incandescent field, buoyed by the creative tendencies of those involved.
Miami, as a city at the crossroads of many different ethnicities, and as America's gateway to South America, offers a distinct consciousness of thought in balance to its exotic locale.
Within its auspice balancing between the metropolitan wants of Downtown, the cultural aura of Little Havana, the trend setting lights of South Beach and the old school elegance of Coral Gables, Miami offers a little bit for everyone, business or pleasure.
As an industry point of reference, two highly regarded festivals, each of their own strength, happened recently within this event heavy city. The Miami International Book Fair, renown the world over, attracted heavy hitter authors as well as Florida centric powerhouses like Carl Hiassen, Dave Barry and Tim Dorsey (just to name a few) while the Miami Short Film Festival, building in tandem, attracts new filmmakers on the way up with edginess to boot with filmmaker Michael Moore making a surprise appearance to screen a couple shorts this year.
To begin with the Book Fair, most of the swirling tendencies of the discussions take place on the second weekend with enough panels and readings to make the head swirl.
Midweek, Robert Goolrick, whose debut novel "A Reliable Wife" hit the New York Times bestseller list, read passages that dictated a balance between period drama and dark sexual thriller. Listening to the texture, the melding of the two worlds held promise as the interior of the auditorium listened rapt.
As part of a youth outreach, Darren Shan, author of the "Cirque Du Freak" series, introduced the first of his prequel novels entitled "Birth Of A Killer" which follows Larten Crepsley, the lead character of "Cirque", dictating how his life came to be through his interaction with other vampires. Using one of his dark voices to read a passage on the first meeting of the soon-to-be vampire, the high school kids responded to Shan's enthusiasm while still retaining a detached edge. Afterwards Shan related that these books rush quickly out of his mind and onto the page without much time to think. Based in Ireland, being able to draw inspiration funnels creativity although the challenge is to always make it infinitely readable for the young adult crowd.Mat Johnson, author of the graphic novel "Dark Rain: A New Orleans Story" [Vertigo], brought the balance into the new millenium discussing the possibilities of sociological discussions in an almost comic format without sacrificing the creativity. With an almost "Boondocks" vision wrapped within a "Sgt. Rock" context, the story finds its interesting possibility in the idea of a rescue Black-Ops team (that goes by the name "Dark Rain") who attempts to rob a bank right after Katrina hits Louisiana. For Mat, who also is a teacher at the University Of Texas, there is a balance between life and experience but one always has to keep an eye on the ball. With technology allowing artists to interact from halfway around the world with other collaborators, Mat shows that you can maintain discipline and focus while still having a somewhat normal life.Tim Dorsey, a wonderfully subtle man, wrote the book "Gator A-Go-Go" which follows the adventures of two misfit middle age guys who can outparty, outthink and literally vilify anything in their path. Like the Bandit and his good ol' boy partner, the book is a page turner full of good old fashioned fun with an edge. It is not about playing it safe. The dialogue is quick and vicious and lends itself to cinematic qualities. Above all though "Gator" is about love of Florida, where many of the authors highlighted hail from. Tim lives in Tampa but makes treks all around the state to research and maintain his levels of authenticity. The situations might not be real but the feeling indicative of the books is down home with some shenanigans thrown in.Dave Barry, whose new book "I'll Mature When I'm Dead" includes musings on the texture of Miami itself, had the packed house in the Chapman Auditorium at Miami/Dade College roaring with laughter as he interrelated a recent escapade with the new TSA machines at Miami International Airport where, after going through the new scanners, was told he had "a fuzzy groin". Having served many years as a columnist for The Miami Herald, Barry has a unique perception of the area but relayed that nothing changed the place like "Miami Vice" did back in the 80s. However, as purveyed, the evolution from exotic to cool is really just a cyclical journey.Jeff Lindsay, creator of Dexter and the new entry to the franchise: "...Is Delicious" is Miami born and bred having watched Miami's evolution specifically its interesting ethnic crossroads. Jeff's insight, unlike Barry's or even Hiassen's, comes from a much darker interpretation. During our discussion, the aspect of graphic tendencies versus guilt trained responses gained traction but the idea is that Dexter, even though a creature of habit, is bound by his own ambition though the element of his kids' aggression really takes him aback. With the TV series such a hit, one would think Lindsay would be expanding but interestingly enough finding new ways to specify this character and his evolution without retreating into melodrama or by-the-book thriller is hard for Lindsay because he wants to maintain the quality. He is also contracted to few more Dexter books before he can angle out on new characters. He realizes the key to interaction and breath is self promotion but iterates that Miami made it happen.Carl Hiassen rounds out the Miami crew having just released his new book "Star Island" which follows a blown-out wannabe star called Cherry Pye whose shenanigans bring South Beach full blown into the fray. Bringing back two beloved characters in the form of the ex-governor from "Striptease" and Chemo from "Skintight", "Star Island" makes a target of the notion of instant celebrity for just what it is: smoke and mirrors. Hiassen, who like Barry, also wrote for The Miami Herald, harks to the fact that Florida attracts all kinds of people making light of the fact that Bubble Boy and his family were in fact on their way already moving to the Sunshine State. Kardashian, Lohan...these names become a drama, Hiassen explains, that can only play out on sun drenched shores. Hiassen loves the city yet its themes and headlines consume all.Scott Turow, like his peers, understands the necessity of brevity but also to the fact of knowing your audience. For years, he resolutely maintained that he would not write a sequel to "Presumed Innocent" but fate has a way of resurrecting life as shown by his new released sequel "Innocent". When he was writing a piece revolving around judges for the New York Times, a line in his story spoke to a small part of what Rusty Sabich (played by Harrison Ford in the movie) might be today. Turow, for his background, began with a pursuit in Creative Writing by his own words but the law fascinated him which progressed in him still doing legal work to this day. Hiassen and Barry have been friends with Turow for years and Miami (for Turow) always seems a homecoming.
One additional element that the Book Fair enveloped this year was the texture of a Fiction Workshop interrelated by authorCristina Garcia which involved thinking approaches to creating structure based on exercise. While some may consider the progression of these "tests" at times trivial, the actualization of this workshop proved undeniably correct in providing an endgame. The main structure of the instruction revolves around the basis of problems and how to solve them. The first test involves the analysis of the opening paragraph. This determines who gets to tell the story and why. The second involved the reading of poems or passages from writing the first three descriptive words of each that come to mind . The breath becomes taking all those words in precise order and creating a story progression. The final element of the workshop speaks to the end in terms of creating dialogue involving the main character's direct quote, one from his enemy and his dying words. Within this structure, however morose, a basis for a novel formulates.
The Miami Short Film Festival, by comparison, operates in genres much like the Book Fair though instead of Downtown Miami, it resides in the affluent neighborhood of Coral Gables, about 5 miles inland. The festival itself revolves around the filmmakers trial and error in knowing the identity of their characters but also learning their wares as they grow as artists. This abbreviated medium tends to foster more creativity since the actual monetary equation is not as much of an issue. It more becomes the calling card for future challenges.
Held at the new Coral Gables Cinemateque which also fosters independent film, the dexterity of the films shown at times cannot be more diverse which speak to the elements of the city of Miami but also to its main proponents: William Vela, the founder and resident of Miami and Maggie Drayton, head programmer, who is also enrolled in the producing school at University Of Miami. Both take their interaction seriously and their community with the filmmakers who attended the festival showed that.In terms of short films, many stood out with intention, some from previous film festivals, some utterly new.
In the "Heat Of The Moment" sidebar, "Not Interested" [USA], directed by D.W. Young, uses almost an "Evil Dead" perception to affect a home intruder situation while not moving away from the job at hand. "Natural Selection" [UK], directed by Brett Foraker, in creating a reverse assassination picture, understands its corners of the thriller genre much better than the rest.
Within the "Cinematic Lifestyles" sidebar, "Miriam's Song" [USA] , directed by Shabnam Piryaei, the lonely disappearance of a child in loss with the death of her mother in nearly one shot point paints true. "Piano Fingers" [USA], directed by Nicolas Carmen, envisions a grand perception of old times lost with an older couple as one succumbs to dementia. The camerawork as Nancy Charles ("Six Feet Under") slowly loses her mind paints much like a Jeunet & Caro journey with a lyrical sense of vision. However, it was "Sarah" [UK"], directed by Ashar Aftab, that truly understood the idea of lost time with a relationship that exists over a weekend but long in the memory.
"Pushing The Limits", by comparison, plays the eclectic with a sense of fantasy. "God Of Love" [USA], made by NYU grad student Luke Matheny, follows the impetus of a new found Cupid who understands his work but tries to maintain elements of real life for himself. Played with a light humor but a serious dark dramatic touch, the balance in inevitably special. In terms of a slick progression though, "Last Rain" [Spain], directed by Tony Lopez and shot in Columbia, understands its cinematic superlative as well as diametric storytelling. Granted the budget reflects its stamina but, in the end, the reality is that its intent works despite some storytelling shortcuts.
"Latin Flavor" shows it paradox with two films that are so dissimilar and yet every bit as original on their own. "I Want To Spend The Rest Of My Life With You" [Spain], directed by Eduardo Solara, is brief, specific and out of its mind in its brutality yet there is never a moment's doubt as to its ambition. "El Tio Facundo" [Mexico], directed by Alejandro Cachoua and shot in Cuba, works as much with its storytelling as with its locale. Its voice, in many way reminscent of "Pushing Daisies" and the work of Barry Sonnenfeld, is infinitely entertaining with all the members of this lost dysfucntional family (especially Dad and Uncle Facundo) providing a world all their own.
Balancing also pertains to elements of food and lifestyle in Miami. A specific progression is also experiencing all sides of its perception. One way is through Miami Culinary Tours which, with its Little Havana and South Beach tours, provides both a cultural and foodie based journey which understands its identity.
Little Havana is misunderstood by many people, even in Miami, who don't understand its cultural significance to say nothing of its location.
Little Havana's art and community relish in their ability to bring that feeling of Cuba into the closest place it can. Agustin Gainza paints visions of Cuba that he remembers from his youth, the ideal of Havana as the center of all things cultural and decadent with a sense of style. In his back room, he brings to life these inherent visions which speak to a time long past.
The Domino Club nearby, placed there by the city, is bustling with activity rife in the old school pleasures of this lost art as the afternoon rain blows in. The Cuba Tobacco Cigar Company, just down the road, boasts the rare Cuban seed though its fields lie in Honduras and Dominican Republic. Walking into the back though, the smell of the leaves permeate with dexterious intent. The rolling continues in the front as the owner lights up a major cigar as his father, who graces the cover of all the boxes, sits outside, fully lit in majesty himself. Arnold Schwarzenegger buys some of his cigars here. The style of the place speaks to its coolness.
El Exquisito, a go-to place for a full Cuban experience, wonders in its delicacies, the aroma of garlic perforating through all its dishes. From its hearty pork piece essence to a luscious potato pie that simmers in its flavor with the addition of simmered pineapple, the earthy textures of the cuisine ring true as it does in no other city.
El Palm, no less brilliant, simply dazzles with its through-line of purity. Stepping up to the outside order window, the appearance and consumption of the angelic Bustelo coffee (which must be shared) is unlike any one has had. Espresso is a sense of being. Bustelo is a way of life. Balance this element with a true Cuban sandwich with its layers of ham, pickles and the like...and a true meal is born. Make sure also to check out their cigars hanging out just inside within their dining room and old school diner bar. The reality is always much more interesting than the anticipation.
South Beach, by comparison in terms of its cuisine, revels in its style and new Cuban fusion. While these elements are undeniably of interest, it is truly in seeing the context of its comparison to Little Havana that gives it perspective.
The Hotel Astor on Washington, with its hidden bar downstairs, evidences its tradition with tapas creation mixing an arugula-based crisp with the vivacious tendencies of an enpenada while sampling their truly heavenly Mojito which knows its rum though and through. The finish relies though in the soft taco tantalized with luscious meat without overcoming the portion.Walking down Ocean Drive, the auspice of the red-singed Hotel Victor and the infamous Versace Mansion speak to the sweat soaked sensuality of the boulevard.
Stopping at The Tides mere steps away, the Art Deco nouveau truly makes its presence known as the lobby slides away with its angular shapes.
Further entering its small bar, bronzed in lingering oranges with a sense of self, its lithe emotions draws one in like Scarface moving in for the kill.
The dinner sample within The Tides consisting of a salsa-visioned shrimp and a grand mahi-mahi wrap understood the balance between fine and Miami-based cuisine, opting for intensive taste while not moving fully for simply the beautiful presentation.
Sometimes, however, the essence must be maintained. Downtown Miami, especially for the business traveller, retains the specificity needed to experience and apply all that the city has to offer.
The Epic Hotel, resting on the apex of the point, looking out over the Port Of Miami, offers panoramic views that simply dazzle. With its water view rooms, replete with exceptional balconies, intense workspaces, luscious tubs and soft beds, the accommodations fire on all cylinders.
Downstairs, as the pool swirls way above the skyline, this version of ultra cool understands where it begins. The dresses flow through the doorway as the shadowed and inventive design opts to a sense of place while allowing a feel of contentment and ambition as yachts place themselves in undeniable congruence to the property.
Upstairs, for business casual lunches, Area 31, known citywide for its fresh caught persuasion of fish, understands the necessity of pairing on all sides with its sights as a fully comprehensive eatery duly accomplished.
Starting with a signature cocktail within the Copa Verde mixing Cointrea and Partida with squeezed lime juice and muddled avocado under a chili salt rim, the sensory tendencies of tropical taste establish the inherent groundwork.
After a luscious chopped salad with vivid vinaigrette and tangy arugula, a bridged plate of yellowfin tuna and escolar (imported from Ecuador) lifted with an effervescent lemon zest, preparing one for the inevitable main course.
The cornerstone of Atlantic Sea Bass, grilled golden brown over a fricasee salad with a heavenly salsa verde sauce mixing herbs, shallots, garlic and capers, elevated the rich vindication of the meal, levitated by a transcental portion of polenta that simply melted the soul.
Encompassing the Miami International Book Fair as well as the Short Film Festival, the city central and its surrounding areas offer a distinction of possibilities inherent to the very nature of the events it hosts. Whether through inherent luxury in such a primarily located spot such as the Epic Hotel or exploring the city's culinary culture from the ultra-trendy lounges of Ocean Drive to the old world richness of Little Havana, the artisanal dexterity of Miami reflects the intellectual and sensual stimulation reflecting in the ideas and imagination of the authors and filmmakers extending their view of their world...and ours.