When Chris Strompolos and Eric Zala, the guys behind the Indiana Jones' spoof Raiders of the Lost Ark: The Adaptation, came to town to present their film two years ago, they did so before a packed audience at the Cleveland Institute of Art Cinematheque (11141 East Blvd., 216.421.7450, cia.edu/cinematheque). Now, they're back at the Cinematheque to host their movie again. In case you're not familiar with it, the film is a scene-by-scene recreation of 1981's Raiders of the Lost Ark. But unlike the Steven Spielberg classic, which had a budget of several million dollars, The Adaptation was shot on VHS with handmade props and costumes. They even did their own death-defying stunts. Strompolos and Zala started filming when they were 12 years old, and it took seven years to finish the film. Because of rights issues, the movie isn't out on DVD and isn't likely to ever come out on DVD. Strompolos, who plays Indiana Jones, and Zala, who portrays Jones' archaeologist rival Belloq, will both be on hand when the film shows at 8:15 p.m. Thursday, December 3, and 9:15 p.m. Friday, December 4. Tickets: $12. Strompolos and Zala will also give a free talk at noon, Friday, December 4, at CIA's Ohio Bell Auditorium.
Not sure if there are any George Michael fans left, but if you're out there, the British pop singer plans to release Live in London, his first-ever concert DVD, on Tuesday, December 8. Recorded and filmed at London's Earls Court arena on August 24 and 25, 2008, the DVD captures two shows on what was essentially a farewell tour, since the performances were the last time Michael says he will play in front of large audiences. You can see the footage before the DVD hits the shelves: Live in London will premiere for a special one-night only showing in digital cinemas throughout North America. It's showing locally at 7 p.m., Thursday, December 3, at the Capitol Theatre (1390 W. 65th St., 216.651.7295, clevelandcinemas.com). Tickets: $9.
Along with co-sponsors the New York Film Academy, putiton.com has just announced its first international online film festival and is accepting submissions through December 31. Winners in each category (best feature film, best short film and best achievement in acting) will receive $5000 and a scholarship to the New York Film Academy. Go to putiton.com for more information.
