Polly Steele Movies
- 2002
For this 90-minute PBS documentary, filmmaker David Grubin, armed with a mini-DVD camera, followed the daily routine of UN Secretary General Kofi Annan from October 2001 to May 2002. Annan is shown dispensing diplomacy in matters pertaining to the crises in Afghanistan and East Timor; he is also seen accepting the coveted Nobel Peace Prize. In a lighter moment, the Secretary General trades quips with the Muppet cast of Sesame Street. Kofi Annan: Center of the Storm made its first TV appearance just as pressure was mounting on the UN to sanction a preemptive military action against Iraq. ~ Hal Erickson, All Movie Guide
- 1999
British director Coky Giedroyc's sophomore feature outing concerns a pair of working class women in Edinburgh, Scotland. Down-to-earth Ellen (Gina McKee), a noted cartoonist, invites her wacky, outgoing best friend Cora (Helena Bonham Carter) to a post-divorce party. Ellen is recovering from an ill-fated marriage to the rakish Daniel, a compulsive gambler and philanderer. Cora broke up with her love 'em and leave 'em French lover Claude, who left her with a child. Told largely through flashbacks, the film charts the rise and fall of the two relationships, remembered by the pair as they bond over drinks. Later, a revelation suddenly strains Cora and Ellen's old and dear friendship. Women Talking Dirty was screened at the 1999 Toronto Film Festival. ~ Jonathan Crow, All Movie Guide
- Starring:
- Helena Bonham Carter, Gina McKee, (more)
This documentary takes an extremely up-close and personal look at legendary singer songwriter Elton John, whose flamboyant style and turbulent personal struggles have captivated fans for decades. Directed by John's own life partner David Furnish, the film chronicles the year 1995 in the musician's life and career, following him through personal exploration as well as career success at the Brit Awards, Academy Awards, and much more. ~ Cammila Albertson, All Movie Guide
